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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL and Crysalis Biosciences Collaborate To Scale Up Domestic Biomanufacturing Technologies

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Public-Private Partnership Advances Research That Turns US Biomass Into National Sources of Fuel, Rubber, and Battery Materials

    Crysalis scaled up NREL’s original reactor operations to produce bio-based acetonitrile. The photo on the left shows NREL’s lab-scale reactor; the photo on the right shows the pilot-scale reactor in the Crysalis facility. Photos by Dennis Schroeder, NREL (left) and Gregory Cooper, NREL (right)

    The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is known for its groundbreaking research in impactful bioenergy technologies and invention of performance-advantaged chemicals and materials. But some of its most exciting success stories happen when those innovations move beyond the lab and into the real world.

    A prime example of this technology transfer in action is the collaboration between NREL and Crysalis Biosciences, a leading American manufacturer of next-generation biofuels and biochemicals. Based on research initially funded by DOE’s Bioenergy Technologies Office, NREL granted Crysalis commercial licenses to three novel biological technologies to produce bio-based chemicals and fuels, including:

    • 2,3-Butanediol (2,3-BDO): This technology leverages a modified strain of Zymomonas mobilis to produce 2,3-BDO instead of ethanol, which can be used to produce polymers and butadiene, a key ingredient in bio-derived rubber for tires.
    • Carboxylic Acids to Aviation Fuel: This process converts America’s plentiful sources of waste and biomass into carboxylic acids, which can be upgraded to a jet fuel blendstock, serving as an abundant energy source for export and the domestic aviation industry.
    • Acetonitrile: This process allows for the production of ultrahigh purity acetonitrile, a high-demand solvent in pharmaceutical manufacturing, as well as other high-performance, high-volume materials like advanced batteries.

    The licensing of these three technologies showcases how the NREL/Crysalis partnership can leverage America’s plentiful biomass and waste feedstocks—more than 1 billion tons according to a recent DOE study—to drive homegrown production of critical materials and agricultural products the country needs and reduce its reliance on imports.

    From Lab Innovation to Market Impact

    With these advancements in hand, Crysalis’ R&D facility in Louisville, Colorado, recently produced the world’s first 100% bio-based acetonitrile with the highest purity available on the market. The pathway was scaled up 300 times from NREL’s lab-scale technology.

    Crysalis engineer Katherine Noon checks equipment that she helped customize and build in the Louisville facility. Photo by Gregory Cooper, NREL

    “I don’t think anyone realized that we could achieve this scale and that the NREL technologies could get out into the world so quickly,” NREL Senior Licensing Executive Eric Payne said. “This project is so amazing; we are lucky to work with such dedicated partners.”

    According to Crysalis Chief Technology Officer Eric Karp, the company purchased a shuttered manufacturing space and, in the span of only one-and-a-half years, Crysalis gutted, cleaned, and built out the new facility—often with refurbished equipment customized by their team to realize huge time and cost savings. The resulting Louisville pilot plant is unique in the industry and started producing acetonitrile in February 2025.

    “The reactor designs came straight from NREL but were scaled up 300 times,” Karp said. “We built the system with plug-and-play capabilities to use in different ways, by moving and changing equipment around for different processes.”

    Crysalis is poised to take this breakthrough development to the next stage with construction of a demonstration-scale manufacturing plant in the St. Louis area. That plant will then aid in the eventual construction of a full-scale bio-acetonitrile manufacturing facility, and the company anticipates commercial availability of the product within a year.

    Making More Fuels and Chemicals Here at Home

    All three of NREL’s technologies licensed to Crysalis will lead to more resilient supply chains of critical materials and chemicals needed by the U.S. economy.

    For example, rubber is a critical strategic material for the United States, and the bio-derived rubber produced by Crysalis via the NREL 2,3-BDO process can fill this need with stateside manufacturing. Many U.S. petroleum refineries also rely on imported crude oil for their operations. NREL’s carboxylic acids-to-fuels technology produces ketones, which can be processed in existing petroleum refineries, thus reducing dependence on imported crude oil.

    The left clear sample is the world’s first 100% bio-based acetonitrile that meets oligonucleotide-grade specifications. On the right is aviation fuel blendstock. Photo by Gregory Cooper, NREL

    Finally, acetonitrile is a critically important industrial chemical with applications such as solvents for the pharmaceutical industry and batteries. Today’s fast-charging lithium-ion batteries rely on acetonitrile, and, accordingly, the market for this solvent is expected to be strained with increased demand from automotive applications. Ultrapure acetonitrile is also highly sought after by the pharmaceutical industry due to the expansion of oligonucleotide drug synthesis, a process to create short DNA or RNA sequences that target specific genes or proteins to treat or manage diseases. The Crysalis and NREL process will meet these growing demands with domestic resources and technology.

    Revitalizing Local Economies by Creating Manufacturing Jobs

    For Crysalis, these technologies also represent an opportunity to transform shuttered chemical plants into profitable, next-generation biomanufacturing hubs. In fact, Crysalis specializes in acquiring and retrofitting shuttered industrial assets—such as the St. Louis plant—to produce bio-based chemicals and fuels and to rehire former employees eager to reclaim their jobs.

    “In this case, we bought an ethanol plant that had been shuttered since 2019, and we turned it back on within a year,” Karp said. “This is another thing we’ve learned from our projects—they are important to the community. There were a lot of jobs, and people are willing to come back to them when you reopen the plants. It’s amazing.”

    Payne agreed: “What Crysalis is doing in St. Louis—in addition to making ethanol and eventually acetonitrile—is creating jobs and rehiring people,” he said. “That translates to jobs in Colorado, too—and I’m proud that NREL technology helped enable this.”

    A Model for Future Collaborations

    The licensing of these technologies represents a success story for industry–government partnerships. Payne emphasized the speed and scale at which these innovations are moving into the market.

    “What is special is that it took less than a month from the time we sent Crysalis these three licenses to the time that we signed the paperwork,” Payne said. “It rarely goes that fast, but Crysalis was really motivated, and it’s been a great partnership.”

    “In the future, we hope to purchase more facilities and do this over and over as our global business model,” Karp said. “Even just one retrofitted plant built from existing infrastructure is having a considerable impact, but if we can start increasing the number of projects down the road, it’ll make a substantial difference to the economy.”

    As NREL continues to partner with companies like Crysalis, the laboratory’s research is not just advancing science—it is actively shaping the future of an abundant, resilient, and affordable energy industry.

    Learn more about NREL’s scale-up and piloting of bioenergy and bioeconomy technologies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis: Court Rejection of Trump Tariff Tax is A Win for Americans

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, a court struck down President Trump’s tariffs that raised the cost for Americans on everyday goods. Colorado helped lead a lawsuit against this tariff tax. Governor Polis has been outspoken about the negative impacts these tariffs have on the American people and applauded the court for their decision today. 

    “This is great news for our economy and every American family. I am grateful that this court decision striking down many tariffs checks the sweeping presidential power that the President has attempted to impose on the American people and businesses. The President’s tariff tax on groceries and everyday items is bad for hardworking people, our economy and business certainty. Unfortunately, President Trump has already caused a lot of damage with his tariff tax and the uncertainty they’ve caused for business and our economy, effectively freezing investment, but I am thrilled with the court’s decision and encourage the President to strengthen trade with our allies and decreases taxes and barriers for imports and exports,” said Governor Polis. 

    In addition to raising prices, reports show that tariffs lead to increases in fraud and crime. 

    In 2024, Colorado exported a record $10.5 billion of goods to the world and imported $16.8 B in goods. Colorado’s top export partners are Mexico ($1.7B), Canada ($1.6B), China ($0.8B) South Korea ($0.6B), and Malaysia ($0.6 B), accounting for half of all Colorado exports in 2024. Top export commodities include meat (17%); nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery (15%); electric machinery (13%); optic, photo, medical or surgical instruments (11%); and aircraft, spacecraft, and related parts (5%). In 2022, exports from Colorado supported an estimated 40 thousand jobs. 

    Colorado in 2024 exported $500 million in aerospace, spacecraft, and related parts, accounting for roughly 4.8% of all Colorado exports. The European Union, Brazil, France, Canada and Mexico were the top five export destinations, accounting for 63% of Colorado’s aerospace exports. In 2024, Colorado imported $1 billion of aerospace, spacecraft and related parts, accounting for roughly 6.2% of all Colorado imports. Switzerland, the EU, Germany, Canada, and France were the top five import sources, accounting for over 90% of Colorado’s aerospace imports. 

    An estimated 820,200 jobs in Colorado are supported by international trade, representing 20.8% of all jobs in the state. Colorado’s top import partners are Canada ($5.4 B), China ($1.8 B), Mexico ($1.1 B), Switzerland ($0.9 B) and Germany ($0.9 B), accounting for 60% of imports in 2024. Top import commodities include oil, mineral fuel (20%); electric machinery (14%); nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery (11%); optic, photo, medical or surgical instruments (8%); and aircraft, spacecraft and related parts (6%). 

    In addition to the commodities traded, Colorado also trades services and runs a services trade surplus. In 2022, Colorado exported $16 B in services, supporting 97,260 jobs. Top services export markets were Canada ($1.3 B), the United Kingdom ($0.9 B), Mexico ($0.9 B), and China ($0.6 B). As a bloc, the EU was the top services export market with $3.8 B in services exports supporting over 18,900 jobs. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana’s Asanko Gold Mine Joins Mining in Motion as Bronze Sponsor

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ACCRA, Ghana, May 29, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Asanko Gold Mine, operated by Canadian firm Galiano Gold, has joined the upcoming Mining in Motion Summit 2025 as a Bronze sponsor. The Summit is Ghana’s premier event for the mining sector, taking place on June 2 – 4, 2025 in Accra.

    As one of Ghana’s key mining operations, Asanko Gold Mine plays a vital role in advancing local content development, environmental sustainability and increased gold production. Asanko Gold Mine’s participation at the event underscores the company’s long-term commitment to driving economic growth and job creation through a robust and responsible mining agenda.

    Asanko Gold Mine will participate in high-level panel discussions, exclusive networking, and project showcases highlighting its investment strategy and impact on Ghana’s mining sector, economy, and local communities.

    The mine discovered a high-grade gold zone at the Abore Main pit, following a drilling campaign completed in May 2025 aimed at extending the life of its underground operations. In addition, the company continues to drill at its other open-pit sites; Nkran, Esaase, and Miradani North to further enhance production capacity.

    On the local content front, Asanko Gold Mine contributes to employment creation, female empowerment and community development. With a workforce of over 2,200 – 99% of whom are Ghanaian – the company champions local capacity building. Through its Asanko Women in Mining initiative, the firm empowers women by providing training and promoting their inclusion across all levels of the mining sector, fostering a more diverse and equitable industry.

    Asanko Gold Mine has also prioritized environmental stewardship. In 2023, the firm signed a clean power purchase agreement with the Volta River Authority to source 15MW of electricity for its operations from solar. The deal supports emissions reductions and aligns with sustainability goals within Ghana’s Asante Kingdom.

    Organized by the Ashanti Green Initiative – led by Oheneba Kwaku Duah, Prince of Ghana’s Ashanti Kingdom – in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, World Bank, and the World Gold Council, with the support of Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the summit offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry leaders.

    Stay informed about the latest advancements, network with industry leaders, and engage in critical discussions on key issues impacting small-scale miners and medium- to large-scale mining in Ghana. Secure your spot at the Mining in Motion 2025 Summit by visiting www.MiningInMotionSummit.com. For sponsorship opportunities or delegate participation, contact Sales@ashantigreeninitiative.org.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Stem Cell Medicine Course for Clinicians Available for Free

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    There is a major educational development for health care providers. On May 28, a first stem cell medicine continuing education course launched internationally in six languages to educate the world. The course is open access to all and free of charge.

    Clinicians, nurses, and medical students can access the free, online course on stem cell-medicine developed by the Education Committee of the International Society of Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) with international stem cell experts and accredited and produced by Harvard Medical School.

    Stem Cell Medicine: From Scientific Research to Patient Care is an essential educational resource for clinicians, scientists, healthcare providers, those in the nursing fields, medical students, and even the general public, seeking the most trusted and reliable stem cell information.

    The course is critical to educate providers on the rapidly evolving stem cell medicine but in turn also to protect patients from the potential physical and financial harms associated with the growing popularity of unproven ‘stem cell tourism’ clinics.

    UConn’s Dr. Jaime Imitola.

    “As a practicing physician, I often hear questions from my patients that reference false claims made by clinics marketing unproven stem cell ‘therapies’ here and abroad,” said course-co-leader Dr. Jaime Imitola of UConn School of Medicine and vice-chair of the ISSCR Education Committee. “Our goal is to provide physicians worldwide with trusted and reliable information on stem cells and their applications in a CE format by authoritative sources. This will help clinicians and students guide their patients more effectively and ensure patients are making informed decisions about their health.”

    Imitola adds, “This is the first time that stem cell medicine is clearly defined and that we have a course on it. This is an important paradigm shift in medical education, including for clinical practitioners. This course is an introduction to the stem cell field and its potential use in clinical care as we prepare for the future of health care which will soon fully integrate stem cells into patient care given the numerous late phase clinical trials by respected institutions around the world. Stem cell medicine is here to stay and soon stem cell therapy will be established so we need to educate all providers on this promising frontier of medicine,” says Imitola of UConn.

    “Dr. Imitola’s work as vice-chair of the ISSCR Education Committee exemplifies the power of collaborative leadership and how it has led to new and exceptional educational opportunities with lasting impact on our field,” said ISSCR President Valentina Greco, professor of Genetics and Cell Biology at Yale University. “Dr. Imitola, in partnership with Dr. Piddini, who chairs the committee, ISSCR team member Dr. Prutton and the whole Education Committee, have worked tirelessly to make the continuing education course on Stem Cell Medicine a reality. Their work is rooted in their collective deep belief of the critical role that education plays in the stem cell field, and the need to present current information in ways that bridge experts across different specialties for the benefit of patients.”

    Dangers of Stem Cell Tourism
    Imitola, professor of Neurology and vice-chair of research in the Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Translational Neuroimmunology at UConn School of Medicine trained at Harvard Medical School as a stem cell-scientist and has devoted his career to the clinical translation of stem cell research to MS care and education. He established pioneering work on migration of neural stem cells to inflammation and currently studies the impact of the inflammatory environment in neurodegeneration and repair both in the laboratory dish and clinic in MS patients using advanced 3D stem cell cultures or organoids. The scientific knowledge gained can be applied to variety of neurological diseases like brain tumors and was published in PNAS. He has also significantly researched stem cell tourism and its negative impact, since MS patient are often the target of the unproven therapy from ‘stem cell clinics’.”

    According to Imitola, around the world during the last 15 years there has been an explosion in stem cell clinics. He has also researched in-depth stem cell clinics exploiting patients in search of hope and cures – and calls it a “state of emergency.”

    “The translation of stem cells to patients is very complex and needs real, rigorous scientific research to move to the bedside,” says Imitola. “Stem cell tourism clinics are increasing under the disguise of ‘stem cell’ care – but they are not using stem cells. Plus, whatever cells or unproven therapies they are offering patients for high cost are not being rigorously studied,” stresses Imitola.

    “Stem cell clinics are taking ill patients desperately searching for hope for a ride. We need providers, residents and medical students to help their patients avoid exploitation from stem cell tourism clinics. This is an urgent matter; we need to educate providers so they can have evidence-based medical conversations with their patients and be protective of patients,” he says.

    As chief of the Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology and director of the Comprehensive MS Center at UConn Health and a neurologist he is motivated to work in this area because he has seen first-hand the negative experience of patients pursuing stem cell tourism clinics. “In our MS Center we have seen the devastating consequences of MS patients receiving  unproven therapy, by patients travelling abroad with a great financial impact to them that are desperate for a cure with no benefit, and this is especially hard in our patients with limited resources and medical educational background that we serve,” says Imitola. This was one of his motivations to work in this global ISSCR initiative since 2022.

    In 2015 his team published a peer-reviewed perspective in JAMA Neurology raising awareness of the growing issue to begin to educate physicians in his field of neurology and how to help combat it, and a decade later legitimate stem cell products are under investigations and still not formally available to use in the neurology clinic yet,  but there are hundreds of stem cell clinics offering unproven cell products.  In 2019, he established the MS Program at UConn Health and in 2020, he launched a North America survey after several patients had complications of injections in the spine in stem cell tourism clinics. The survey found patients in the U.S. reported complications from their stem cell clinic “treatments” abroad and in the U.S. Also, most physicians surveyed said they didn’t understand the topic of stem cells and saw a course on stem cells as a necessary tool. The findings were published in Annals of Neurology and this educational project is part of UConn’s mission to educate, research, and provide care and solutions to real-world problems in our community, says Imitola.

    “These  survey results were a clear alarm that we needed to improve physician education and training in stem cell medicine and teaming with my colleagues at ISSCR and dozens of experts around the world that shared the same concern, we saw that as a tremendous unmet need at the bedside,” shared Imitola. “Now, we have more advanced clinical trials that will place pressure on clinicians to be trained and increase their fund of knowledge to provide information and develop communication skills to talk about stem cell medicine to patients.”

    Fast forward to 2025, the comprehensive ISSCR Continuing Education course offers seven modules on the fundamentals of stem cell biology, methodologies and considerations for cell therapy product design and clinical trials, and the rise of unproven stem cell clinics and stem cell tourism. It aims to equip medical students, nurses, and practicing clinicians with tools and strategies for effective patient communication, ensuring that information shared is accurate and impactful.

    Development of the course and its materials took Imitola and members of the education committee and collaborating international stem cell scientists from across all five continents two years to create. It will be followed by disease-specific stem cell medicine courses later in 2025.

    Also, all courses also offer AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ and American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) contact hours, allowing physicians and nurses to use the earned credits to fulfill their continuing education requirements.

    International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR), with nearly 5,000 members from more than 80 countries, is the preeminent global, cross-disciplinary, science-based organization dedicated to stem cell research and its translation to the clinic. The ISSCR mission is to promote excellence in stem cell science and applications to human health. Patients and others can learn more from ISSCR at  AboutStemCells.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Malaysia payment card market to surpass $177 billion in 2025 as POS overtakes ATM withdrawals, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Malaysia payment card market to surpass $177 billion in 2025 as POS overtakes ATM withdrawals, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Banking

    The Malaysian payment card market (including at POS and ATM cash withdrawals) is expected to grow by 4.0% to reach MYR814.1 billion ($177.9 billion) in 2025e, driven by a clear shift from cash to digital payments. Contactless cards and wider card acceptance are playing a key role, with card payments at POS now set to overtake ATM cash withdrawals for the first time, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s Payment Card Analytics reveals that payment cards value in Malaysia registered a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0% between 2020 and 2024 to reach MYR783 billion ($171.1 billion) in 2024. On the other hand, card usage for ATM cash withdrawals is reducing with total ATM withdrawals registering low CAGR of 1.1% during the same period.

    Shivani Gupta, Lead Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Although cash remains prevalent in Malaysia, it is gradually losing ground to electronic payments. There has been significant progress in the adoption of card-based payments, which recorded a CAGR of 20.4% between 2020 and 2024 in terms of transaction volume. This growth is primarily supported by the government’s financial inclusion initiatives, such as capping interchange fees, issuing licenses for digital-only banks, and developing payment infrastructure in the country.”

    While cash has traditionally been the preferred payment method in Malaysia, its share is steadily declining as digital payments gain traction, with payment cards and digital wallets emerging as the main beneficiaries. The share of ATM cash withdrawals now represents 49.8% in 2025, much lower compared to 63.3% in 2021.

    Card payments at POS terminals, on the other hand, are steadily increasing, with its share is estimated to reach 50.2% in 2025. This growth can be attributed to the rising consumer awareness, growing POS terminalization, and the introduction of contactless debit cards by banks. The capping of interchange fees for domestic and international debit cards at 0.10% and 0.27%, respectively, and at 0.6% for credit cards, also contributed to this as this encouraged more merchants to accept card payments.

    The growing popularity of contactless payment has also driven the overall card usage at POS, gradually displacing cash for day-to-day transactions. Backed by most banks and financial institutions in the country, contactless payments have become increasingly prevalent and are also widely accepted by most retailers.

    According to GlobalData’s 2024 Financial Services Consumer Survey*, over 63% of the respondents in Malaysia indicated having access to a contactless card and used it for payments.

    The increasing use of contactless payments for public transport payments is also contributing to the growth of card payments. For example, in March 2024, the highway operator PLUS Malaysia introduced contactless credit and debit card payment capabilities at the toll plaza on the Penang Bridge. Commuters can simply tap their cards on the MyDebit-Visa-Mastercard device to complete toll payments, with the toll fee deducted directly from their card balance. These advancements indicate a growing trend towards the normalization of cashless and contactless payment methods in Malaysia.

    Despite the increasing popularity of electronic payments, cash remains widely used in Malaysia due to consumer cultural preferences and the perceived convenience and security it offers. Consequently, Malaysia’s transition to a less-cash society is expected to be a gradual process.

    Gupta concludes: “Looking ahead, Malaysia’s payment card landscape is poised for steady growth over the next five years, driven by the increasing adoption of payment cards amid a boarder digital transformation. Government initiatives, rising consumer preference for digital payments, and developing card acceptance infrastructure are expected to further drive/support this growth. Subsequently, the payment cards value is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2025 and 2029 to reach MYR969.9 billion ($211.9 billion) in 2029.”

    *GlobalData’s 2024 Financial Services Consumer Survey was carried out in Q2 2024. Approximately 67,292 respondents aged 18+ were surveyed across 41 countries.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Deforestation now poses material risk as EUDR enforces strict supply chain accountability, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Deforestation now poses material risk as EUDR enforces strict supply chain accountability, says GlobalData

    Posted in Strategic Intelligence

    Deforestation is no longer just a reputational concern, it is now a material risk with regulatory teeth. With the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) taking effect in December 2025, companies across sectors must prove their supply chains are deforestation-free or face severe penalties. The shift demands urgent action on traceability, supplier engagement, and sustainability strategy to preserve access to critical markets, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The upcoming EUDR is a commodity-based regulation requires companies importing deforestation-intensive commodities (cattle, palm oil, soy, coffee, cocoa, rubber, or wood) to the EU to provide evidence that these products’ supply chains are deforestation-free. Companies that fail to comply could face a fine of up to 4% of their EU revenue or a temporary suspension from the EU market.

    GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report, “Deforestation Risk,” includes analysis of the economic and environmental impacts of deforestation, an overview of the global regulatory landscape, and deforestation risk profiles for 12 industries

    Aoife McGurk, Strategic Intelligence Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “For many years now, certain companies have faced operational regulatory risk if their operations directly contribute to deforestation. The introduction of the EUDR from December 2025 means far more companies will need to mitigate the supply chain regulatory risk they face.”

    To help companies analyze this expanded regulatory risk, alongside the physical, reputational, and financing risk that deforestation generates, GlobalData has developed a brand new Deforestation Risk Framework.

    When analyzed through this framework, the agriculture sector faces the highest level of risk across the board. The sector’s intensive use of commodities targeted by the EUDR exposes it to elevated regulatory risk, and its reliance on ecosystem services, like pollinators and the water cycle, means it faces significant physical risk.

    The second most exposed sector is consumer. While it directly contributes to very little deforestation, the consumer sector’s supply chains involve vast amounts of high-risk commodities—palm oil, in particular.

    Companies in every sector face an underlying low level of financing risk. As financial institutions realize the risk to which deforestation and the ensuing loss of natural capital expose them, they will restrict their provision of financial services to companies that do not contribute to forest loss. Barclays has already launched a policy to this effect.

    McGurk continues: “Every company needs a strategy to mitigate deforestation risk in its many forms. GlobalData has five key recommendations companies should follow when implementing such a strategy.”

    Companies should set a robust no-deforestation target to signal to consumers and regulators that they are serious about their forestry efforts. They should engage with suppliers throughout the value chain to strengthen accountability and explicitly integrate deforestation risk into their business strategies. Companies should try to substitute any high-risk commodities they use wherever possible.

    Using natural or synthetic alternatives, changing suppliers, and economizing on the volume of each commodity can help reduce deforestation risk. Finally, investing in supply chain traceability and anti-deforestation technology will help with EUDR compliance.

    McGurk concludes: “One of the biggest challenges for EUDR compliance is ensuring that supply chains are fully transparent. Artificial intelligence (AI) can support anti-deforestation efforts by monitoring forests and using predictive analytics to predict where deforestation will occur, allowing stakeholders to prevent it. Internet of Things (IoT) technology helps monitor deforestation by combining many inputs from different sensors to detect changes in forests, analyze this data, and communicate potential deforestation to the relevant authorities. Dedicated supply chain traceability platforms combine these technologies to help companies mitigate their deforestation risk.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Don Davis Tours Lowe’s Distribution Center in Northampton County

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    GARYSBURG, NC — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) received a tour of the Lowe’s Distribution Center in Garysburg, NC to gain insights into its operations, workforce, and role in supporting the regional economy. 

    “With a dedicated workforce of 500 employees, Lowe’s is a pillar of northeastern North Carolina, and we are thankful for their contributions to our community,” said Congressman Don Davis. “Businesses like Lowe’s Distribution Center #1420 play a vital role in creating a brighter future for eastern North Carolina.” 

    Lowe’s has been recognized as a 2025 Military Friendly Employer, emphasizing its commitment to supporting veterans and military families. Through its partnership with the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program, Lowe’s offers a 12-week fellowship providing transitioning servicemembers with hands-on training, mentorship, and career opportunities in various roles, including store management and supply chain operations. 

    Lowe’s plays a critical role in disaster preparedness and response, especially in storm-prone regions like eastern North Carolina. Through its Emergency Command Center, the company pre-positions essential supplies, supports rapid store recovery, and partners with organizations like the American Red Cross to aid local communities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada welcomes recent announcements from telecommunications companies in AI infrastructure

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 29, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario 

    Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, along with the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, made the following statement:

    “The Government of Canada welcomes recent announcements from leading telecommunications companies such as Bell and Telus about their plans to build the critical infrastructure to power Canada’s AI advantage. These forward-looking private sector investments will help create high-quality jobs in Canada, open up new opportunities for workers at home and strengthen Canada’s position as an AI leader. It also supports the responsible development and adoption of AI technologies that can improve prosperity for workers and businesses across Canada.

    “Notwithstanding unjustified tariffs imposed by the United States, these announcements show industry is strongly aligned with Canada’s plans to build the strongest economy in the G7, and the desire to see AI get to scale, unlock productivity gains, and fuel trust, security and sovereignty at this time of crisis.

    “These investments are also a testament to Canada’s commitment to ensuring all Canadians have access to best-in-class technologies. The Government of Canada will continue to champion investments that expand access to reliable, affordable telecommunications and support the growth of Canadian businesses in every corner of the country. Canada is open for business.”

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 14 Arrested on Complaints Alleging More Than $25 Million in COVID-19 Relief and Small Business Loans Were Fraudulently Obtained

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    Click Here to View the Original U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Press Release

    Fourteen defendants – including San Fernando Valley and Glendale residents – were arrested on two federal criminal complaints alleging they fraudulently obtained more than $25 million in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief funds and federally-guaranteed small business loans.

    The 18 total defendants named in the complaints – four defendants are believed to be in Armenia – are charged with conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims; false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims; wire fraud and attempted wire fraud; bank fraud and attempted bank fraud; money laundering conspiracy; laundering of monetary instruments; engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity; and/or structuring financial transactions to evade reporting requirements.

    The defendants arrested today include:

    • Vahe Margaryan, a.k.a. “William McGrayan,” 42, of Tujunga, who allegedly orchestrated a scheme to defraud numerous banks and the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Preferred Lender Program, a program designed to help small businesses that otherwise might not obtain financing. McGrayan allegedly directed owners of sham corporations to open bank accounts, make false statements, and concoct documents, including phony resumes and financial statements, to support loan applications to buy other sham corporations. McGrayan allegedly paid for phony tax returns that falsely reported millions in revenue and tens of thousands in tax due and owing. McGrayan, whose alleged criminal activity lasted from 2018 until January 2025, then directed the laundering of millions in fraud proceeds through various bank accounts.
    • Sarkis Gareginovich Sarkisyan, 37, a.k.a. “Samuel Shaw,” of Glendale, who allegedly, among other offenses, submitted a false application and bogus documents to obtain a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provided low-interest, forgivable loans to help small businesses retain their workforce and cover expenses. Sarkisyan allegedly applied in April 2021 on behalf of a fake business that received more than $700,000 in PPP funds.
    • Mery Babayan, 32, a.k.a. “Mery Diamondz,” of Van Nuys, together with co-defendants Margaryan and Hovannes Hovannisyan, 48, a.k.a. “John Harvard,” of Panorama City, in May 2021 allegedly defrauded a bank by representing the nonexistent sale of a sham business to another sham company to obtain an approximately $3 million federally guaranteed loan through the SBA’s Preferred Lending Program.
    • Felix Parker, 77, of North Hollywood, who in January 2023 allegedly made false statements and submitted fraudulent documents, including fake tax returns that falsely reported that his shell company, Canmar Promo, earned millions of dollars annually and owed tens of thousands in federal income taxes. Parker allegedly obtained more than $2 million in government-guaranteed funds earmarked to help small businesses.
    • Axsel Markaryan, 47, a.k.a. “Axel Mark,” of Pacoima, who in June 2023 allegedly fraudulently obtained more than $5 million in SBA loans via the submission of false statements and the submission of fake documents, including bogus tax returns. After the loans were obtained, Markaryan and his co-schemers in November 2023 laundered the money, including sending at least $100,000 to a co-schemer in Armenia.

    As a result of today’s takedown, law enforcement seized approximately $20,000 in cash, two money-counting machines, paper cash bands or currency straps in denominations of $2,000 and $10,000, multiple cell phones, multiple laptops, two loaded semi-automatic 9mm handguns, and boxes of 9mm ammunition.

    “Today’s enforcement action is intended to send a message to all criminals who take advantage of government programs designed to help those who need them most,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “If you took COVID-19 or SBA money you weren’t entitled to, your door could be the next one we visit. Together with our law enforcement partners, my office will aggressively prosecute individuals who cheat the system meant to protect and support law-abiding citizens.”

    “Scheming to fraudulently obtain federal funds that were meant to provide assistance to the nation’s small businesses is unacceptable,” said the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG) Western Region Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Huang. “OIG will continue to ardently investigate fraudulently obtained SBA program funds, including COVID-19 pandemic-related loans, to protect taxpayers from fraud, waste, and abuse. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”

    “This transnational criminal network sought to defraud the government of millions of dollars and almost succeeded,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “Through the diligent work of the El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force and our federal partners, HSI is continuing to identify these criminal groups looking to profit from the pandemic and will use all available resources to criminally prosecute or remove them from the country.”

    “Today, 14 individuals were arrested in connection with a fraudulent loan scheme in which they allegedly obtained in excess of $25 million through the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, and other federal funding programs,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, Los Angeles Field Office. “These programs were established to assist individuals and businesses in need of financial assistance and instead were pilfered by the named defendants. IRS-CI is dedicated to identifying and dismantling criminal organizations that prey on assistance programs set up for the benefit of our law-abiding citizens.”

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, each defendant would face a statutory maximum sentence of decades in federal prison.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolster efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    On September 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central and Eastern Districts of California to jointly head one of the three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    SBA-OIG, IRS Criminal Investigation, and HSI are investigating these matters.

    The cases announced today were investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General and Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multi-agency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Mark Aveis and Gregg Marmaro of the Major Frauds Section and Maxwell Coll of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section are prosecuting these cases.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Nearly $9 Million in Fraud and Money Laundering Proceeds from Fraudulently Obtained Paycheck Protection Program Loans

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    Click Here to View the Original U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Press Release

    On May 14, 2025, U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz entered a final judgment forfeiting to the United States approximately $7 million in fraud and money laundering proceeds, as well as a real property purchased with laundered fraud proceeds that has an estimated market value of nearly $2 million, United States Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    On May 6, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture complaint against approximately $7 million in seized and frozen U.S. currency, as well as a real property in Cresskill, New Jersey, that was purchased with nearly $1 million in laundered fraud proceeds, alleging that the assets were the proceeds of fraud and money laundering offenses. As alleged in the complaint, between April 2020 and August 2020, Jae H. Choi (“Choi”) fraudulently obtained Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans totaling approximately $8,971,457, and then laundered those fraud proceeds through various financial accounts held in the names of Choi’s nominees, including Choi’s relative and various corporate entities that Choi controlled. According to the civil forfeiture complaint, Choi then spent the laundered fraud proceeds on personal expenses and purchased the Cresskill real property.

    United States Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Internal Revenue Service –Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, special agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General’s Boston New York Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Amy Connelly, postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, and special agents of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General’s Eastern Region, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Braithwaite, with the investigation.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter A. Laserna of the Bank Integrity, Money Laundering, and Recovery Unit of the Criminal Division in Newark.

    ###

    choi.complaint.pdf

    Related programs: Pandemic Oversight, PPP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New scheme will help families in need while giving new life to unloved items

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Anyone using the Household Waste and Recycling Centre (HWRC) at Shaw Road will now be asked if they’ve brought anything along which is ‘Too Good to Chuck’.

    It could be wooden furniture, old beds, decorative items, anything which could be re-purposed or restored and ultimately re-loved by someone else.

    Someone might have no more use for a piece of furniture or see it as junk, but that doesn’t mean it can’t have another life enhancing another person’s home.

    A network of skilled partners has been brought together by the council who can restore old or damaged furniture and bits of wood and metal and give them years more use in a new home.

    Too Good to Chuck is the first of a range of projects, which will come under the umbrella of City Homemakers – an approach which is all about the council helping residents take pride in their homes and be able to make small improvements no matter what their budgets.

    City Homemakers will also help prevent waste and help the environment, as well as help families who need furniture and practical ways of turning their houses into homes.

    Leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council, Councillor Stephen Simkins launched the scheme today with Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, Cabinet Member for Resident Services.

    Councillor Simkins appealed to everyone to think is it ‘Too Good to Chuck?’ before they take things to the Shaw Road site.

    ‘It’s the time of year when many of us do a spring clean and have a good clear out, but please don’t throw away things that could have a second life and help other families in the city.

    ‘We’ve brought together skilled craftspeople from across the city, who are experts in turning one person’s junk into another person’s treasured piece of furniture.

    ‘In these continuing tough financial times, we all need ways to make the most of our homes without spending a fortune and I’m excited to launch this scheme as the first of many under the City Homemakers banner.

    ‘Look out for more schemes coming soon, which will give different ways of improving our homes. We’re looking at numerous ways as a council to help our residents make the most of their homes, which can only improve our great city and help us continue to help our residents with the cost of living.’

    Councillor Gakhal agreed and added:

    ‘We’ve already had great success in helping reduce waste contamination in recycling bins with our ‘Check before you chuck’ campaign.

    ‘I’m hoping residents can now also consider if something is ‘too good to chuck’ and think twice before throwing good furniture and household items away.

    ‘If you think you have something that could have a second life in another home after a little expert love and attention, then head to the new containers at the Shaw Road site where our team will be on hand to help.’

    Here’s a checklist of what you can put in the Too Good to Chuck containers and what you can’t:

    What we want:

    Wooden furniture
    Metal furniture
    Bed frames – with or without screws and fittings
    Curtain poles – With or without screws and fittings
    Children’s furniture 
    Bicycles or non-electric scooters
    Kitchen plates, bowls, cutlery and utensils 
    Decorative items, mirrors, pictures

    What we don’t want:

    Anything electrical
    Soft furnishings 
    Soiled or heavily damaged items

    Small electrical items, while not right for Too Good to Chuck, can be recycled using another of the council’s services, find out more by visiting Small electricals recycling.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: 100x Leverage + 100% Bonus — No KYC Needed to Trade Crypto Futures on BexBack

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the cryptocurrency bull market charges ahead, traders are once again looking for platforms that offer both power and flexibility. BexBack Exchange is answering that call with an unmatched trio of advantages: up to 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and no KYC requirement for new users.

    This combination makes BexBack one of the most accessible and trader-friendly platforms in the crypto derivatives space.

    Why 100x Leverage Appeals to Traders

    • Amplify returns with minimal capital
    • Access larger positions for stronger market exposure
    • Benefit from both rising and falling markets
    • Enhance capital efficiency by using margin effectively

    Traders using BexBack can open positions with just 0.001 BTC and still take advantage of full leverage potential.

    How the 100% Deposit Bonus Works

    New users depositing at least 0.001 BTC or 1,00 USDT qualify for a 100% bonus. While this bonus cannot be withdrawn directly, it can be used as trading margin. In volatile conditions, this added margin helps buffer against liquidation, allowing traders to stay in the game longer.

    Profits made using the bonus are fully withdrawable.

    Read the full bonus policy

    What Sets BexBack Apart?

    • No KYC: Start trading instantly with just your email
    • 100x Leverage: Take full control of market swings
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds for amplified trading power
    • 50+ Perpetual Contracts: Including BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and more
    • Demo Mode: Unlimited virtual funds to practice risk-free
    • 24/7 Support: Responsive service for users worldwide

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a global cryptocurrency derivatives exchange that empowers traders with up to 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other major crypto pairs. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform operates under a U.S. MSB license and maintains offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Known for its no-KYC policy, fast trade execution, and user-centric features like demo trading and double deposit bonuses, BexBack is trusted by over 500,000 users worldwide.

    Ready to Start?

    If you’ve been watching crypto from the sidelines, now is the time to act. Sign up, deposit, and experience the benefits of high-leverage trading — all without KYC.

    Join BexBack Today — where trading begins with freedom and scales with you.

    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/17fd1a38-100a-4304-a1d9-962a0dbb820b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/abbf6903-ca41-45f3-8010-5bf9bee017f2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3b820417-b7d7-475d-81c5-bfeb8e147f41

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b9e64d28-15dc-4e21-a1a3-77a34d423c8e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Directions under Section 35 A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 – The YASHWANT CO-OPERATIVE BANK Ltd., Phaltan, Taluka Phaltan, District Satara, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    It is hereby notified for information of the public that in exercise of powers vested in it under sub section (1) of Section 35 A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) vide Directive Ref. No. CO.DOS.SED.No. S1580/12-22-321/2025-2026 dated May 28, 2025, has issued certain Directions to The YASHWANT CO-OPERATIVE BANK Ltd., Phaltan, (“the bank”), whereby, as from the close of business on May 29, 2025, the bank shall not, without prior approval of RBI in writing, grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment, incur any liability including borrowal of funds and acceptance of fresh deposits, disburse or agree to disburse any payment whether in discharge of its liabilities and obligations or otherwise, enter into any compromise or arrangement and sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets except as notified in the RBI Direction dated May 28, 2025, a copy of which has been directed to be displayed on the bank’s website / premises for perusal by interested members of the public. Considering the bank’s present liquidity position, the bank has been directed not to allow withdrawal of any amount from savings bank or current accounts or any other account of a depositor but is allowed to set off loans against deposits subject to the conditions stated in the above RBI Directions. The bank may incur expenditure in respect of certain essential items such as salaries of employees, rent, electricity bills, etc., as specified in the said Directions.

    2. RBI has in the recent past engaged with the Board and Senior Management of the bank for improvement in its functioning. However, lack of concrete efforts taken by the bank to address the supervisory concerns and to protect the interest of depositors of the bank, necessitated issuance of these Directions.

    3. The eligible depositors would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of their deposits upto a monetary ceiling of ₹5,00,000/- (Rupees five lakh only) in the same capacity and in the same right, from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), as applicable under the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on submission of willingness by the depositors concerned and after due verification. The depositors may contact the bank officials for further information. Details may also be accessed on the DICGC website: www.dicgc.org.in.

    4. The issue of the above Directions by the RBI should not per se be construed as cancellation of the banking license by RBI. The bank will continue to undertake banking business subject to restrictions specified in the said Directions till its financial position improves. The RBI continues to monitor the position of the bank and will take necessary actions including modifications of these Directions, as warranted, depending upon circumstances and in the interest of the depositors.

    5. These Directions shall remain in force for a period of six months from the close of business on May 29, 2025 and are subject to review.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/432

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF and Ukrainian Authorities Reach Staff Level Agreement on the Eighth Review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 29, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. 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. This mission will not result in a Board discussion.

    • International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff and the Ukrainian authorities have reached staff level agreement (SLA) on the Eighth Review of the 4-year, $15.5 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement. Subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, Ukraine would have access to about US$0.5 billion (SDR 0.37 billion), bringing total disbursements under the program to US$10.65 billion.
    • All end-March quantitative performance criteria (QPCs) and indicative targets (IT) have been met and understandings were reached on a set of policies and reforms to sustain macroeconomic stability. The structural reform agenda continues to make progress with two structural benchmarks met, another to be completed in the coming weeks, and strong commitments to advance other key reforms.
    • The outlook remains exceptionally uncertain as the war continues to take a heavy toll on the population, economy, and infrastructure. Despite the challenging environment, the program remains on track and fully financed on the back of large-scale external commitments.

    Kyiv, Ukraine: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Gavin Gray held discussions with the Ukrainian authorities in Kyiv, Ukraine during May 20-27 on the Eighth Review of the country’s 4-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement. Upon the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Gray issued the following statement: 

    “IMF staff and the Ukrainian authorities have reached staff-level agreement on the Eighth Review of the EFF, subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, with Board consideration expected in coming weeks. 

    “Ukraine’s four-year EFF Arrangement with the IMF continues to provide a strong anchor for the authorities’ economic program in times of exceptionally high uncertainty. All quantitative performance criteria and indicative targets for end-March have been met, and progress continues on the structural agenda due for this review.

    “The economy remains resilient despite the challenges arising from more than three years of war. As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues, real GDP growth is expected to remain modest, at 2-3 percent for 2025, reflecting headwinds from labor constraints and damage to energy infrastructure. Inflation has continued to rise, reaching 15.1 percent y/y in April mainly due to rising food and labor costs; inflation expectations remain anchored. The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) has raised the policy rate by a cumulative 250 bps since December in response. Gross international reserves reached US$46.7 billion as of end-April, reflecting continued large external official support. Risks remain exceptionally high given uncertainty on the war and the prospects for peace and recovery.  

    “The 2025 fiscal deficit is large as the level of critical expenditures remains elevated as the war continues. Financing the deficit requires significant external support, notably from the G7’s ERA Initiative, whose full disbursement during the program period is critical to support macroeconomic stability and ensure the program remains financed. Risks of additional critical expenditure requirements in 2025 are high and thus the authorities need to prepare offsetting measures should expenditure shocks materialize. Beyond 2025, expenditures are expected to remain high for the foreseeable future. Consequently, it is imperative and unavoidable that the authorities sustain efforts to mobilize domestic revenues over the medium-term since external support alone will not be sufficient to finance the deficit, restore fiscal sustainability, support critical spending, and finance reconstruction.

    “Determined efforts are required to mobilize domestic revenues, tackle tax evasion and avoidance, and improve the investment climate. Broad-based, durable, and efficient revenue measures and robust implementation of Ukraine’s National Revenue Strategy (NRS) is essential. Tax policy reforms need to be coupled with improvements in tax administration and continued reforms to the state customs service (SCS) and state tax service (STS). Restoring debt sustainability hinges on this revenue-based fiscal adjustment and continued implementation of the authorities’ debt restructuring strategy, including a treatment of the GDP warrants. The upcoming 2026-2028 budget declaration is an important step to set out the strategic objectives of the authorities’ medium-term fiscal framework and policies. 

    “With rising inflation, the increases by the National Bank of Ukraine’s (NBU) to their key policy rate (KPR) have been appropriate. Additional action may be warranted if inflation accelerates further or inflation expectations deteriorate. The monetary stance should remain tight to help reduce inflation and bring it to the NBU’s target over its three-year policy horizon. The exchange rate should play a greater role as a shock absorber, as per the preconditions outlined in the relevant NBU Strategy; this will help prevent external imbalances and preserve adequate reserves, particularly given heightened risks to the outlook. The judicious and staged approach to FX liberalization should continue, consistent with overall monetary and FX policy mix to maintain adequate reserves, and measures should continue to be closely monitored.

    “Governance reforms remain essential to bolster the rule of law and increase the independence, competence, and credibility of anti-corruption and judicial institutions. Reforming the state customs service (SCS) is essential to tackle corruption and reduce tax evasion. Progress in this area requires finalizing a comprehensive reform plan—a requirement for the completion of the review—coupled with the swift appointment of a permanent head of the SCS. The recently published NABU external audit, a structural benchmark, provides an opportunity to implement additional reforms to strengthen the institution and increase public trust. Similarly, the government’s commitment to amend the criminal procedure code, also a structural benchmark, is a signal of their willingness to strengthen the anti-corruption system and meet international obligations. On SOE corporate governance, the selection of new CEOs for GTSO and Ukrenergo should proceed promptly based on a merit-based process.     

    “Effective public investment management (PIM) is critical for post-war recovery, reconstruction, and growth against a backdrop of limited fiscal space. To tackle these challenges, the government of Ukraine has made important progress in strengthening PIM frameworks, and we encourage the authorities to build on this success. A strategic, holistic, and transparent approach is essential to overcome absorption capacity constraints and allocate scarce resources efficiently. 

    “The financial sector remains stable, but continued vigilance is warranted given elevated risks. Swift action to address critical institutional challenges of the NSSMC is a priority to enhance its effectiveness, and fit and proper tests need to proceed without further delay. Developing financial markets infrastructure and associated reforms will be indispensable to attracting private sector and foreign capital to support reconstruction and recovery. Comprehensive consultation with financial market participants is essential to facilitate a prioritized reform agenda.  

    “The mission met with Prime Minister Shmyhal, Finance Minister Marchenko, National Bank of Ukraine Governor Pyshnyy, other government ministers, public officials, and civil society. The mission thanks them and their technical staff for the excellent collaboration and constructive discussions.” 

    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/2025/05/29/pr-25165-ukraine-imf-and-ukr-authorities-reach-agreement-on-8th-rev-of-eff-arrang

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check with Green Dollar Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, Nevada, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Key Takeaways

    • In this article, we are talking about Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check, highlighting quick, accessible loans for those with bad credit or urgent financial needs.
    • Small payday loans typically range from $100 to $1,500 and do not require a hard credit check, focusing instead on income and ability to repay.
    • Green Dollar Loans is a trusted platform that connects borrowers to direct lenders offering no credit check payday loans with fast approval and same-day funding.
    • These loans provide fast access to cash with minimal documentation, making them ideal for emergency expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or home fixes.
    • Payday loans generally do not affect your credit score when applying, and timely repayments can sometimes help improve credit if reported to bureaus.
    • Borrowers should use payday loans responsibly by only borrowing what they can repay quickly to avoid debt cycles and high fees.
    • Alternatives to payday loans include credit union payday alternative loans, personal installment loans, borrowing from family, or negotiating payment plans, but payday loans remain useful for immediate cash needs.

    When unexpected expenses hit, like car repairs, medical bills, or urgent home fixes, sometimes you need cash fast—but your credit score might not be on your side. If you’ve been searching for the best small payday loans online no credit check, you’re in the right place.

    This article will walk you through what payday loans are, how to find the best small payday loans for bad credit, and how to get approved quickly—even if your credit history isn’t perfect.

    We’ll also introduce you to Green Dollar Loans, a trusted platform that connects borrowers to direct lenders offering best small payday loans online with no credit check, fast approval, and flexible terms.

    CHECK YOUR RATES WITH NO RISK TO YOUR CREDIT SCORE

    What Are Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check?

    Small payday loans are short-term loans designed to cover emergency expenses or cash flow gaps, typically in amounts ranging from $100 to $1,500. They are meant to be quick fixes—small sums of money to tide you over until your next paycheck arrives.

    The term “no credit check” means lenders do not perform a hard inquiry on your credit report. Instead, they focus on your current income, employment, and ability to repay. This is particularly beneficial for people with bad credit who may have been denied by traditional lenders.

    Best small payday loans online no credit check are popular because they offer:

    • Quick approval (often within minutes)
    • Fast funding (same day or next business day)
    • Minimal documentation required
    • Acceptance of borrowers with poor or no credit history

    Why Are Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check So Important?

    Financial emergencies don’t wait for you to fix your credit score. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden job loss, unexpected medical costs, or an urgent home repair, the need for immediate cash often arises before your credit history is in perfect shape.

    The challenge? Most traditional banks require good to excellent credit scores, lengthy applications, and extensive documentation—processes that take days or weeks and often result in rejection for people with poor credit. That’s why best small payday loans online no credit check are a game-changer, providing fast access to funds without scrutinizing your credit report.

    SEE IF YOU QUALIFY WITHOUT AFFECTING YOUR CREDIT.

    How Do the Best Small Payday Loans Online Work?

    Applying for the best small payday loans online is simple and fast:

    1. Complete a quick online application — usually takes less than 10 minutes. You provide basic information like your income, bank account details, and employment status.
    2. Get instant or near-instant approval — many lenders use automated systems to evaluate your application without pulling your credit.
    3. Review loan terms and agree — you’ll see the interest rate, fees, repayment period, and total cost before accepting.
    4. Receive your funds — most lenders transfer money directly to your bank account within 24 hours or less.

    This process makes these loans highly convenient for emergencies, especially for those who need cash fast without credit hassles.

    Green Dollar Loans: Best Small Payday Loans Online

    One standout platform offering best small payday loans online no credit check is Green Dollar Loans. It’s a reputable, easy-to-use site that connects you with a network of direct lenders specializing in loans for people with bad credit.

    Why Green Dollar Loans?

    • No credit check required: Your credit score won’t impact approval decisions.
    • Fast approval: Many borrowers get instant decisions.
    • Flexible loan amounts: Borrow between $100 and $1,500 or more depending on lender.
    • Same-day funding: Quick access to cash when you need it most.
    • Secure online process: Encrypted application keeps your data safe.
    • Tailored for bad credit: Special focus on people who have been rejected elsewhere.

    By using Green Dollar Loans, you avoid scams and get matched with lenders who offer some of the best small payday loans for bad credit on the market.

    TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD YOUR LOAN TODAY.

    Benefits of the Best Small Payday Loans for Bad Credit

    1. Fast Access to Cash: The application process is quick, and funds can be deposited as soon as the same day or the next business day.
    2. No Credit Impact: Since no hard credit check is performed, your credit score won’t be hurt by applying.
    3. Easy Online Application: Apply from anywhere with a smartphone or computer—no in-person visits or paperwork piles.
    4. Flexible Loan Amounts: Borrow small amounts tailored to your immediate needs, usually between $100 and $1,500.
    5. Minimal Qualification Requirements: Income and bank account verification usually suffice, making approval easier.
    6. Helps Build or Rebuild Credit: Some lenders report on-time payments to credit bureaus, improving credit over time.

    How to Apply for the Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check with Green Dollar Loans

    1. Visit Green Dollar Loans’s website: Secure and easy to navigate on mobile or desktop.
    2. Fill out a short application form: Provide basic information like your name, contact info, monthly income, and bank details.
    3. Get matched with lenders: The system connects you with multiple direct lenders who can offer loans based on your profile.
    4. Compare offers: Review loan amounts, fees, and repayment terms.
    5. Choose the best loan: Accept the loan that fits your needs and budget.
    6. Receive funds quickly: Money is typically deposited within one business day.

    Common Misconceptions About Small Payday Loans

    Myth 1: Payday loans ruin your credit.
     Fact: Payday loans usually don’t involve credit checks, so your score isn’t impacted by applying. If you repay on time, some lenders report positive payment history to credit bureaus, which can improve your credit.

    Myth 2: You’ll get trapped in debt cycles.
     Fact: Responsible borrowing is key. While payday loans have high rates, using them only in emergencies and repaying promptly can avoid debt traps.

    Myth 3: All payday loans have outrageous fees.
     Fact: Fees vary by lender. Platforms like Green Dollar Loans help you compare options to find transparent and reasonable terms.

    CLEAR UP THE CONFUSION—FIND OUT WHAT PAYDAY LOANS ARE REALLY ABOUT.

    Tips for Using Small Payday Loans Responsibly

    • Borrow only what you need and can repay.
    • Understand the full cost, including fees and interest.
    • Set reminders to repay on time and avoid rollovers or extensions.
    • Consider payday loans as a last resort after exploring other options like credit unions or payment plans.

    Who Should Consider Best Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check?

    • People with poor credit scores who have been denied by traditional banks often find the best small payday loans for bad credit to be a reliable option.
    • Workers with irregular income, such as freelancers or gig workers, benefit from the flexibility of best small payday loans online no credit check.
    • Those facing sudden, unavoidable expenses can use these loans for fast financial relief.
    • Individuals who prefer quick, convenient online applications without the hassle of credit checks will find these loans ideal.

    Tips to Improve Your Chances of Approval

    • Provide accurate information on your application.
    • Apply for only what you need and can afford to repay.
    • Ensure you have an active checking account.
    • Apply during business hours when manual reviews happen.
    • Consider having proof of steady income ready, such as pay stubs.

    TAKE ACTION NOW TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING APPROVED

    Alternatives to Small Payday Loans Online

    If you’re concerned about payday loan costs, consider:

    • Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs) which have lower fees.
    • Personal installment loans with longer repayment terms.
    • Borrowing from family or friends.
    • Payment plans with creditors.

    But when emergencies strike and options are limited, the best small payday loans online no credit check remain a valuable resource.

    Conclusion

    The best small payday loans online no credit check offer quick access to cash, especially for those with bad credit. Using trusted platforms like Green Dollar Loans, you can connect with reliable lenders who provide fast approval and clear terms. This makes it easier to get the best small payday loans for bad credit without worrying about your credit history.

    These loans are designed for short-term emergencies, so it’s important to borrow responsibly. Understand all fees and repayment terms before accepting an offer, and only borrow what you can repay on time. Comparing options on Green Dollar Loans helps you find the most affordable best small payday loans online tailored to your needs.

    Remember, payday loans are just one option in managing your finances. Along with building savings and improving credit, they can help you handle urgent expenses. With best small payday loans online no credit check available through Green Dollar Loans, you have fast, secure access to funds when it matters most.

    GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED—BEGIN YOUR LOAN PROCESS NOW.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is the easiest loan to get with no credit?
     The easiest loans to get with no credit are usually payday loans or small personal loans from lenders who don’t require a credit check. Platforms like Green Dollar Loans connect you with lenders offering fast approval based on income and banking information, not credit scores.

    Where is the easiest place to get a payday loan with bad credit?
     The easiest place to get a payday loan with bad credit is through reputable online lending platforms like Green Dollar Loans. They match borrowers with direct lenders who specialize in approving loans regardless of credit history, offering quick funding and minimal paperwork.

    Can I get a payday loan with a 500 credit score?
     Yes, many lenders offer payday loans to borrowers with credit scores as low as 500 or even lower. These loans focus more on your current income and ability to repay rather than your credit score, making them accessible even with poor credit.

    How to get a $300 loan fast?
     To get a $300 loan fast, use an online lender or platform like Green Dollar Loans. Fill out a short application, verify your income and bank account, and you could receive funds as soon as the same or next business day.

    Where can I get a $50,000 loan?
      For larger loans like $50,000, traditional banks, credit unions, or online personal loan lenders are your best bet. These loans usually require good credit, steady income, and detailed documentation. For those with less-than-perfect credit, consider secured loans or business loans with collateral.

    Mail: compliance@paydayventures.com

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Loan approval and terms vary by lender and individual circumstances. Payday loans and other short-term loans often come with high interest rates and fees. Borrow responsibly and consider all your options before applying. Always read and understand the full terms and conditions of any loan before accepting. Use trusted and reputable lenders only. If you face ongoing financial difficulties, seek advice from a licensed financial advisor or credit counselor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Car Loan Refinance for Bad Credit: Apply with Caribou’s Auto Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Laurel, Mississippi, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Key Takeaways

    • In this article, we’re talking about the best car loan refinance for bad credit options available today
    • Bad credit doesn’t mean you can’t refinance – many lenders specialize in helping borrowers with credit challenges
    • Refinancing with bad credit can lower your monthly payments and potentially save thousands over your loan term
    • Online marketplaces make comparing multiple bad credit refinancing offers easier than ever
    • Having a stable income and a history of on-time payments can improve your chances despite credit issues
    • Always read the fine print to avoid predatory lending practices when refinancing with bad credit
    • The right refinancing strategy can actually help rebuild your credit score over time

    Are your car payments too high and hard to afford each month? Even if your credit isn’t very good, you can still refinance your car loan. This means you get a new loan to replace your old one with better terms. Refinancing can help you save money and make your payments easier to handle.

    When you refinance, you might get a lower interest rate, pay less each month, or have more time to pay off the loan. This can help you have extra money for other things and make your budget less stressful. It’s a good idea to see if refinancing can help you manage your car loan better.

    APPLY ONLINE FOR THE BEST AUTO LOANS

    Here, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about best car loan refinance for bad credit – from understanding what lenders consider “bad credit” to comparing the best lenders willing to work with credit-challenged borrowers. We’ll also share practical tips to improve your chances of approval and help you avoid common pitfalls along the way.

    What Does “Bad Credit” Mean in Auto Loan Refinancing?

    When lenders talk about “bad credit,” they’re typically referring to FICO scores below 600. Here’s a quick breakdown of credit score ranges:

    • Excellent: 750+
    • Good: 700-749
    • Fair: 650-699
    • Poor: 600-649
    • Bad: Below 600

    With a score in the “bad” range, many traditional banks and credit unions might turn you away. When it comes to refinancing car loans, bad credit creates specific challenges:

    • Fewer lenders are willing to work with you
    • Higher interest rates than those offered to prime borrowers
    • Stricter requirements for income verification
    • Possible limitations on vehicle age and mileage
    • Potential need for a co-signer

    But don’t lose hope! Many lenders specialize in bad credit auto refinancing, understanding that credit scores don’t tell the whole story about a person’s ability to repay a loan.

    Benefits of Refinancing a Car Loan with Bad Credit

    Even with credit challenges, refinancing your car loan can offer several important benefits:

    • Lower Monthly Payments

    Refinancing often results in reduced monthly payments, either through a lower interest rate or by extending your loan term. This immediate relief can free up money for other essential expenses or debt payments.

    • Potential Interest Rate Reduction

    If your credit has improved even slightly since you took out your original loan, or if you originally financed through a dealership (which typically charges higher rates), you might qualify for a better rate now. Even a 1-2% reduction can save hundreds or thousands over the life of your loan.

    • Flexible Loan Terms

    Bad credit refinancing lenders often provide more flexible terms to fit your specific situation. You might choose to extend your term for lower monthly payments or keep a similar term but with a better rate.

    • Path to Credit Improvement

    Successfully refinancing your car loan and making consistent, on-time payments on the new loan can actually help improve your credit score over time, potentially opening doors to better financing options in the future.

    FIND AFFORDABLE CAR LOANS WITH BAD CREDIT

    Common Challenges When Refinancing With Bad Credit

    While refinancing with bad credit is possible, you should be prepared for certain challenges:

    • Higher Interest Rates

    Even the best car loan refinance for bad credit typically come with higher interest rates than those offered to borrowers with good credit. However, they may still be lower than what you’re currently paying.

    • Stricter Requirements

    Expect more thorough income verification and possibly higher income requirements. Lenders want to ensure you can afford the new loan payments despite past credit issues.

    • Equity Requirements

    Some lenders require that you have positive equity in your vehicle (meaning it’s worth more than you owe). If you’re upside-down on your loan, refinancing might be more difficult.

    • Vehicle Restrictions

    Many lenders have age and mileage restrictions. Older vehicles with high mileage may be harder to refinance, especially with bad credit.

    How to Find the best car loan refinance for bad credit

    Finding the right lender is crucial when refinancing with bad credit. Here’s how to locate the best options:

    Look for Lenders Who Use Alternative Credit Criteria

    Some forward-thinking lenders look beyond your credit score, considering factors like education, employment history, and income stability. These lenders understand that many responsible borrowers have experienced credit setbacks due to circumstances beyond their control.

    Use Online Marketplaces and Comparison Tools

    Online loan marketplaces allow you to submit a single application and receive multiple offers from different lenders. This makes comparison shopping much easier and increases your chances of finding a lender willing to work with your credit situation.

    Check for Lenders Offering Soft Credit Inquiries

    When shopping for rates, look for lenders who perform “soft pulls” on your credit rather than “hard inquiries.” This allows you to check potential rates without further damaging your credit score. Many online refinancing platforms now offer this feature.

    Prepare Your Finances to Improve Chances

    Before applying, take steps to strengthen your financial position:

    • Make sure you’re current on your existing car loan
    • Reduce other debt balances if possible
    • Gather proof of stable income and employment
    • Save for a possible down payment to reduce your loan-to-value ratio

    GET APPROVED FOR AUTO LOAN REFINANCE FAST

    Caribou Auto Loan: The Best Choice For Refinancing Car Loans

    Caribou is the best choice for refinancing car loans, especially for people with bad credit. They understand that many borrowers have faced financial struggles through no fault of their own, like job loss or medical bills, and deserve a second chance.

    Unlike many banks that only work with good credit, Caribou helps people with credit scores as low as 560. They work with many lenders who offer special programs for people with credit challenges. Their goal is to help everyday Americans lower their monthly car payments and get better loan terms.

    What makes Caribou stand out is their easy and quick online application process that only does a soft credit check, so your score won’t be hurt. Plus, every borrower gets a personal Loan Consultant who guides them through the process and offers advice on improving credit.

    Based in Colorado, Caribou has helped thousands of people save money on their car loans, with clients saving an average of $145 each month. Their personal approach and wide network of lenders make refinancing easier and more affordable for those with bad credit.

    Why Caribou As The Best Choice

    Caribou has earned its reputation as one of the best car loan refinance for bad credit providers due to:

    1. Flexible Credit Requirements: They work with borrowers with scores as low as 560, focusing on your overall financial picture rather than just your score.
    2. Impressive Savings: Their clients save an average of $145 per month on their auto payments – that’s real money back in your pocket.
    3. Extensive Lender Network: Caribou partners with numerous lenders, giving them access to loan terms that aren’t typically available directly to the public.
    4. Simple Three-Step Process: Their streamlined application takes just minutes and won’t impact your credit score during the initial phase.
    5. Skip Payment Option: Many Caribou refinance options include the ability to skip payments for up to 90 days, giving your budget immediate relief.
    6. Personal Loan Consultants: Their dedicated team works one-on-one with borrowers to find the best solution for their specific situation.
    7. Proven Track Record: Real-life success stories show dramatic savings, like Famatta who reduced her monthly payment by $371 by refinancing through Caribou.

    SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A CAR LOAN

    Tips to Improve Your Chances of Refinancing Approval with Bad Credit

    Even with lenders like Caribou that specialize in bad credit car loan refinancing, taking these steps can significantly improve your chances of approval:

    1. Maintain Steady Employment and Income

    Lenders want to see stability in your income source. If possible, wait until you’ve been at your job for at least six months before applying for refinancing.

    2. Pay Off Other Debts or Reduce Balances

    Lowering your debt-to-income ratio makes you appear less risky to lenders. Try to pay down credit card balances and avoid taking on new debt before applying.

    3. Avoid New Credit Inquiries

    Multiple credit applications in a short time can further lower your score and make lenders nervous. Focus only on your refinancing goal and put other credit applications on hold.

    4. Gather Necessary Documents Upfront

    Being prepared speeds up the process and shows lenders you’re serious. Collect:

    • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
    • Proof of residence
    • Current auto insurance documentation
    • Information about your current loan and vehicle

    5. Consider a Co-signer

    If available, a co-signer with better credit can significantly improve your chances of approval and help you secure better terms.

    APPLY NOW FOR EASY CAR LOAN REFINANCE

    What to Watch Out For When Refinancing With Bad Credit

    When dealing with bad credit auto refinancing, stay alert for these potential issues:

    1. High Fees or Hidden Charges

    Some lenders targeting bad credit borrowers add excessive origination fees, prepayment penalties, or processing charges. Always ask for a full disclosure of all fees.

    2. Predatory Lending Practices

    Be wary of lenders who:

    • Pressure you to decide quickly
    • Guarantee approval without checking your information
    • Focus only on the monthly payment, not the total loan cost
    • Add unnecessary products or services

    3. Unfavorable Loan Terms

    Watch out for extremely long loan terms that might lower your payment but cost thousands more in interest. Also be cautious of loans with balloon payments (large payments due at the end of the loan).

    4. Importance of Reading the Fine Print

    Take time to thoroughly understand all terms before signing. If something seems confusing, ask questions or have someone you trust review the paperwork.

    START YOUR FAST AND SIMPLE LOAN APPLICATION

    Step-by-Step Process of Refinancing Your Car Loan with Bad Credit

    Ready to pursue refinancing your car loan? Here’s what to expect with Caribou:

    1. Quick Online Application

    Start by filling out Caribou’s simple online form with basic information about your vehicle and current loan. This takes just a minute or two and won’t impact your credit score.

    2. Review Your Options

    After submitting your information, you’ll receive personalized refinancing options based on your specific situation. An Caribou Loan Consultant will walk you through these options.

    3. Choose Your Best Option

    With help from your Loan Consultant, select the refinancing option that best meets your needs – whether that’s the lowest monthly payment, shortest term, or best overall savings.

    4. Document Submission

    Provide any requested documentation promptly. This typically includes:

    • Proof of identity and residence
    • Income verification
    • Current loan information
    • Vehicle details (VIN, mileage, condition)

    5. Loan Approval and Closing

    After approval, you’ll receive final loan documents to review and sign. Read everything carefully before signing.

    6. Enjoy Your Savings

    Once everything is finalized, your new lender will pay off your original loan. You’ll start making payments on your new, more affordable loan – and potentially enjoy up to 90 days before your first payment is due.

    Conclusion

    Having bad credit doesn’t mean you’re stuck with your current high-interest auto loan. With specialized lenders like Caribou, refinancing car loans for bad credit is not only possible but could significantly improve your monthly cash flow and overall financial health.

    Remember that the best refinancing option isn’t always the one with the lowest monthly payment. Consider the total cost of the loan, including interest paid over the full term. Sometimes a slightly higher payment with a shorter term saves thousands in the long run.

    With Caribou’s average monthly savings of $145, you could put that money toward other debts, build an emergency fund, or save for your future. Their extensive lender network and experience with credit-challenged borrowers makes them an excellent choice for those looking to refinance despite credit issues.

    Ready to explore your options? Start your journey to lower car payments today by checking your rate with Caribou – it only takes a minute and won’t impact your credit score.

    SECURE A BETTER CAR LOAN RATE TODAY

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Can you refinance a car loan with a different bank?

    Yes! In fact, refinancing with a different lender is the most common approach. Working with a company like Caribou gives you access to multiple lenders, increasing your chances of approval despite bad credit.

    What is the best car refinance company for bad credit?

    Caribou stands out as one of the best car loan refinance for bad credit options due to their minimum credit score requirement of just 560, extensive lender network, and proven track record of helping credit-challenged borrowers save money.

    How soon can you refinance a car loan after purchase?

    Most lenders prefer that you’ve had your current loan for at least 6-12 months before refinancing. However, companies like Caribou may be able to help sooner if your credit has improved or if you initially financed through a dealership at a high rate.

    How long do you have to wait to refinance a car loan?

    There’s no mandatory waiting period, but waiting 6-12 months gives you time to establish payment history on your current loan and potentially improve your credit score, leading to better refinancing terms.

    Where can I refinance my car loan?

    While you can refinance through banks, credit unions, and online lenders, working with a refinancing platform like Caribou gives you access to multiple lending options with a single application. This is especially valuable for those with bad credit.

    What disqualifies you from refinancing a car?

    Common reasons include very low credit scores (below 500), owing more on your car than it’s worth, an old vehicle with high mileage, low income or high debt, and loans in default. Caribou helps many with credit scores as low as 560 who might be rejected by other lenders.

    Can you refinance a car loan?

    Absolutely! Refinancing a car loan is a common financial strategy that can lower your interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or change your loan term. Even with bad credit, companies like Caribou specialize in helping borrowers refinance to more favorable terms, with many clients saving $145 per month on average.

    mail:contact@gocaribou.com

    Disclaimer

    This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Individual results may vary based on your credit score, income, and other factors. We recommend consulting with financial professionals and comparing multiple lenders before making any refinancing decisions. Interest rates and loan terms are subject to change, and approval is not guaranteed.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Outcomes of the UK/EU Summit on 19 May: UK statement to OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Outcomes of the UK/EU Summit on 19 May: UK statement to OSCE

    Ambassador Holland briefs on the outcomes of the UK/EU Summit, which took place on 19 May in London, including the leaders’ commitment to the Helsinki Decalogue and resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

    Thank you, Chair. On 19 May the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Presidents Von Der Leyen and Costa and High Representative Kallas to Lancaster House, for the first ever Summit between the UK and the EU.  It was an important forward-looking discussion at which our leaders confirmed our steadfast dedication to the fundamental tenets of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law. They restated our commitment to the Helsinki Decalogue and to the rules based international order, with the United Nations at its core.  

    Our leaders stressed our resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and underlined our commitment to hold Russia accountable for its aggression.  Our leaders also offered continued support to Moldova and reaffirmed our commitment to the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans.  

    Europe faces a generational threat to our shared security and against this backdrop the discussion included global and strategic priorities of joint concern and agreement to strengthen cooperation across a range of issues for the security, safety and prosperity of all people across the UK and EU.   

    During the Summit the UK and the EU reached agreement on a Security and Defence Partnership.  The Partnership is broad and ambitious and will upgrade our cooperation on areas ranging from defence industry, mobility of military material and personnel, maritime security and space security, to illicit finance, irregular migration and working together to protect our critical infrastructure. These are issues relevant to the work that we do each day here in Vienna and our partnership will contribute to our shared security. 

    Madam Chair, this Summit underpinned the importance of UK and EU cooperation and our new geopolitical partnership that drives closer coordination, builds on our OSCE principles and commitments and will underpin our comprehensive approach to security.   

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insolvency Service publishes new Individual Voluntary Arrangement protocol to help protect people in debt

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Insolvency Service publishes new Individual Voluntary Arrangement protocol to help protect people in debt

    New protocol is the result of the agency working with organisations across the sector to improve support for people considering an IVA.

    • The changes to the IVA protocol bring further clarity and certainty for both consumers and creditors. 

    • Research published in October 2024, showed concerning evidence of poor practice by some providers.  

    • The revised protocol comes into effect from 1 June 2025 and is the product of the agency working alongside regulators, creditors, IVA providers and charities.  

    The Insolvency Service has published a revised Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) protocol to improve the service currently offered to people in debt and safeguard them from poor practice.  

    IVAs are a legally binding agreement between a person who is insolvent and their creditors.   

    The new protocol includes an easy-to-read ‘key facts’ document which will be given to people in debt before they sign up to an IVA. The protocol also gives greater clarity to Insolvency Practitioners about their responsibilities when giving advice about IVAs. 

    It is the result of a collaboration between the Insolvency Service, regulators, the trade association R3, creditors, providers and charities following 2024 research which found poor practice among some IVA providers. 

    Claire Hardgrave, the Head of Insolvency Practitioner Regulation for the Insolvency Service said:  

    It is vital that people with debt problems are always given quality advice.  

    At the same time, Insolvency Practitioners need access to clear guidance in order to provide the best service possible.  

    Since the publication of our report, we have been working with regulators and have met with Insolvency Practitioners to discuss our plans. 

    This protocol provides much-needed safeguards and transparency for all concerned, ensuring there are fewer grey areas for the practice, and that people in debt are supported from the very start.

    Marcial Boo, Chief Executive of the Insolvency Practitioners Association, added:  

    It is vital that Insolvency Practitioners meet high standards when supporting people in financial distress.  

    The revised IVA Protocol marks a significant improvement in the framework for the fair, efficient administration of consumer IVAs, including changes that the IPA, as the largest regulator for the sector across the UK, has long been advocating for.  

    We will continue to work with the Insolvency Service and others to ensure that the new protocol is applied in practice to bring benefit to debtors and creditors alike.

    In 2024, the Insolvency Service published research into the provision of IVAs, looking at 310 which had been both registered and terminated between 2021 and 2023, finding that 60 per cent showed evidence of poor practice in the early stages. 

    The new ‘key facts’ document, will be given to consumers before they agree an IVA proposal and provides greater clarity on what to expect. It covers key areas, including implications for homeowners, fees charged by IVA providers, how monthly repayments are calculated and individual credit scores.  

    Some of the main changes to the protocol include:  

    • Clearer guidance for when an IVA is not suitable, for example, if a consumer qualifies for a Debt Relief Order. 

    • The consumer’s family home will no longer form part of their IVA if the providers and creditors follow the protocol. 

    • Where an IVA is terminated, a requirement that the supervisor should signpost the consumer to free, regulated debt advice. 

    The revised protocol is the product of the IVA standing committee (IVASC) of which the Insolvency Service is a member alongside the Recognised Professional Bodies (RPBs). 

    It involved all parties working together to agree a product which was easier to understand and provides greater clarity and certainty for consumers, creditors and Insolvency Practitioners. 

    Across England and Wales, a total of 64,050 IVAs were registered in 2024.   

    IVAs are administered by licensed Insolvency Practitioners, usually last for between five and six years, to pay off debts affordably monthly contributions 

    Anyone in problem debt should seek free, regulated debt advice and ask about the breathing space service while they explore possible solutions to suit their circumstances.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai attends 2025 Europe Day Dinner

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-05-28
    President Lai meets US delegation led by Senator Tammy Duckworth
    On the afternoon of May 28, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by United States Senator Tammy Duckworth. In remarks, President Lai thanked the US Congress and government for their longstanding and bipartisan support for Taiwan. The president stated that Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. He pointed out that the Taiwan government has already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties and will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses. He then expressed hope of deepening Taiwan-US ties and creating more niches for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome this delegation led by Senator Duckworth, a dear friend of Taiwan. Senator Duckworth previously visited in May last year to convey congratulations after the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. Your bipartisan delegation was the first group from the US Senate that I met with as president. Today, you are visiting just after the first anniversary of my taking office, demonstrating the staunch support of the US and our deep friendship. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincere appreciation and greetings. And I invite you to come back and visit next year, the year after that, and every year. Taiwan and the US share the values of democracy and the rule of law and believe in free and open markets. Both sides embrace a common goal of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. I thank the US Congress and government for their longstanding, bipartisan, and steadfast support for Taiwan. In 2021, to help Taiwan overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Duckworth made a special trip here to announce that the US government would be donating vaccines to Taiwan. In recent years, Senator Duckworth has also promoted the TAIWAN Security Act, STAND with Taiwan Act, and Taiwan and America Space Assistance Act in the US Congress, all of which have further deepened Taiwan-US cooperation and steadily advanced our ties. For this, I express my deepest appreciation. I want to emphasize that the people of Taiwan have an unyielding determination to protect their homeland and free and democratic way of life. Over the past year, the government and private sector have been working together to enhance Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience. The government is committed to reforming national defense, and it has proposed prioritizing special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds three percent of GDP. This will continue to bolster Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US. In addition to jointly safeguarding regional peace and stability, we also aspire to deepen bilateral trade and economic ties. At the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, earlier this month, Taiwan’s delegation was once again the biggest delegation attending the event – proof positive of our close economic and trade cooperation. We have already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties. We will narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy and agricultural and other industrial products from the US. We will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses to stimulate industrial development on both sides, especially in such industries as national defense and shipbuilding. We therefore look forward to Congress passing the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act as soon as possible, as this would deepen Taiwan-US trade ties and create more niches for business. In closing, I once again thank Senator Duckworth for making the trip to Taiwan. Let us continue to work together to elevate Taiwan-US ties. I wish you a pleasant and successful visit. Senator Duckworth then delivered remarks, saying that she is happy to be back in Taiwan and that she wanted to make sure to come back just after President Lai’s one-year anniversary of taking office to show the dedication and the outstanding friendship that we have. She noted that because no matter who is in the White House, no matter which political party is in power in Washington, DC, she has always believed that if America wants to remain a leader on the global stage, it has to show up for friends like Taiwan.  Senator Duckworth mentioned that in the years that she has been coming to Taiwan since pre-COVID times, she has seen a remarkable increase in participation in its defense and the support of the Taiwanese people for defending the homeland. She then thanked Taiwan for making the commitment to its self-defense, and also for being a partner with other nations around the world.  The STAND with Taiwan Act, the senator noted, is so named because the US wants to stand side by side with Taiwan. Pointing out that Taiwan is an important leader in the Indo-Pacific and on the global stage, she reiterated that there is support on both sides of the aisle in Washington for Taiwanese democracy, and added that the people of Taiwan are showing that they are willing to shore up their own readiness. Senator Duckworth said that whether it is delivering vaccines to Taiwan or making sure that the US National Guard works with Taiwan’s reserve forces or even with its civilian emergency response teams, these are all important components to the ongoing partnership between our nations.  Senator Duckworth indicated that there are many great opportunities moving forward beyond our military cooperation with one another. Whether it is in chip manufacturing, agricultural investments, shipbuilding, or in the healthcare field, those investments in both nations will facilitate stability and development in both our nations. She said that is why she wants to continue the Taiwan-US relationship, underlining that they are in it for the long haul. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    President Lai meets delegation led by US House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman”>Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets delegation led by US House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman
    On the afternoon of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Chair of the Natural Resources Committee of the United States House of Representatives Bruce Westerman. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan and the US enjoy close industrial exchanges and continue to explore new opportunities for investment and collaboration. The president said that Taiwan will continue to increase purchases from and together build non-red supply chains with the US, expressing hope that economic and trade relations grow even closer and that both work together to jointly safeguard peace and stability throughout the region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet and exchange views with members of the US House Committee on Natural Resources today. Chair Westerman, the leader of this delegation, is an old friend of Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a very warm welcome to the delegation. I also want to thank you all for your long-term close attention to Taiwan-related affairs and your strong support for Taiwan. Taiwan and the US enjoy close ties and share ideals and values. There is an excellent foundation for cooperation between us, particularly in such areas as energy, the economy and trade, agriculture and fisheries, environmental protection, and sustainable development. In recent years, Taiwan-US ties have grown closer and closer. The US has become Taiwan’s largest destination for overseas investment, accounting for over 40 percent of Taiwan’s outbound investment. Taiwan is also the seventh largest trading partner of the US and its seventh largest export market for agricultural products. The SelectUSA Investment Summit held in Washington, DC earlier this month was the largest in its history. Taiwan’s delegation, representing 138 enterprises, was once again the biggest delegation attending the event. This shows that Taiwan and the US enjoy close industrial exchanges and continue to explore new opportunities for investment and collaboration. Looking ahead, with the global landscape changing rapidly, Taiwan will continue to increase purchases from the US, including energy resources such as natural gas and petroleum, as well as agricultural products, industrial products, and even military procurement. This will not only help balance our bilateral trade, but also strengthen development for Taiwan in energy autonomy, resilience, the economy, and trade. Taiwan and the US are also well-matched in such areas as high tech and manufacturing. As the US pursues reindustrialization and aims to become a global hub for AI, Taiwan is willing to take part and play an even more important role. We will strengthen Taiwan-US industrial cooperation and together build non-red supply chains. In addition to bringing our economic and trade relations even closer, this will also allow Taiwanese industries to remain rooted in Taiwan while expanding their global presence, helping bolster the US, and marketing worldwide. As for military exchanges, we are grateful to the US government for continuing its military sales to Taiwan and backing our efforts to upgrade our self-defense capabilities. Taiwan will continue to work with the US to jointly safeguard peace and stability throughout the region. In closing, I thank our guests once again for making the long journey here, not only offering warm friendship, but also demonstrating the staunch bipartisan support for Taiwan in the US Congress. Chair Westerman then delivered remarks, saying that it is an honor for him and his colleagues to be in Taiwan to talk about the strong relationship between the US and Taiwan and how that relationship can continue to grow in the future. The chair pointed out that natural resources are foundational to any kind of economic development, whether it is energy, which is key to manufacturing, or whether it is mining, which provides rare earth elements and all the minerals and metals needed for manufacturing. He said that as for natural resources including fish, wildlife, or timber, all are foundational to any society, but this is especially so for agriculture, noting that the US produces a lot of food and fodder and is always looking for more friends to share that with. Chair Westerman indicated that they are excited about opportunities to work with Taiwan, adding that Taiwan’s investments in the US have been greatly appreciated. He said they also are excited about the talks with the Trump administration and the future going forward on how we can have a stronger trade relationship, a stronger bilateral relationship, and how we can work with each other to help both economies grow and prosper. Chair Westerman concluded his remarks by expressing thanks for the opportunity to visit, saying that they treasure Taiwan’s friendship and our long-term relationship, and are very excited to be able to discuss in more detail how our two countries can work together. The delegation also included US House Natural Resources Committee Representatives Sarah Elfreth, Harriet Hageman, Celeste Maloy, and Nick Begich. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.  

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets and hosts luncheon for delegation led by Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam
    On the morning of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam and her husband, and hosted a luncheon for the delegation at noon. In remarks, President Lai noted that this is the governor’s first trip to Taiwan, fully demonstrating the Guam government’s support and high regard for Taiwan. The president said that Guam, being the closest United States territory to Taiwan, is an important bridge for collaboration between Taiwan and the US. He stated that aside from promoting tourism, we can also explore even more opportunities for collaboration in other areas to further advance industrial development for both sides. He said that, as we begin a new chapter, we look forward to working together to generate even more momentum in bilateral cooperation and exchanges. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to Governor Leon Guerrero and her delegation. Last year, I transited through Guam en route for visits to Taiwan’s diplomatic allies in the Pacific. The enthusiastic reception I received from the government, legislature, people, and members of our overseas community in Guam was very touching and left me with a deep impression. During the morning tea reception hosted by Governor Leon Guerrero, we joined in singing our respective national anthems, as well as the Fanohge CHamoru. I also received at the Guam Legislature a copy of a Taiwan-friendly resolution it passed on behalf of the people of Taiwan. And I still remember to this day the striking scenery of the governor’s house and the warm reception I received there. It is therefore a great pleasure to meet with all of you today here at the Presidential Office. This is Governor Leon Guerrero’s first trip to Taiwan. Your visit fully demonstrates the Guam government’s support and high regard for Taiwan. As we begin a new chapter, we look forward to working with you to generate even more momentum in bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Taiwan and Guam are like family. We share the Austronesian spirit and culture. Our wide-ranging and mutually-beneficial collaboration is very fruitful. And now, we are facing the challenges of climate change, public health and medicine, and regional security together. The world is rapidly changing and tensions in the Indo-Pacific continue to rise. But if we combine our strengths, come together as one, and enhance cooperation, we can maintain regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Last Tuesday, I delivered an address on my first anniversary of taking office. I mentioned that for many years, Taiwan, the US, and our democratic partners have actively engaged in exchange and cooperation. Taking a market-oriented approach, we will promote an economic path of staying firmly rooted in Taiwan and expanding the global presence of our enterprises while strengthening ties with the US. Guam is the closest US territory to Taiwan. It is an important bridge for collaboration between Taiwan and the US. Last month, we were pleased to see United Airlines officially launch direct flights between Taipei and Guam. I believe this will benefit tourism and economic and trade exchanges for both sides. In the area of health care, many hospitals in Taiwan already offer referral services to patients from Guam. Both Governor Leon Guerrero and I have backgrounds in medicine. It is my hope that Taiwan and Guam can continue to work hand in hand to create even more positive outcomes from cooperation in public health and medical services. During the governor’s visit, aside from promoting tourism, we can also explore even more opportunities for collaboration in other areas. There is potential for more exchanges in aquaculture, food processing, hydroculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and recycling. This will further advance industrial development in Taiwan and Guam. In closing, I thank Governor Leon Guerrero and all our distinguished guests for backing Taiwan. I wish you all a smooth and successful visit.  Governor Leon Guerrero then delivered remarks, saying that she is very happy to come to Taiwan. She said that after learning during President Lai’s visit to Guam last year that he is a medical doctor, she felt more relaxed because healthcare colleagues are one in their endeavor to help enhance the health and well-being of people. She then expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the invitation to Taiwan.  Governor Leon Guerrero said that as they learn more about opportunities for collaboration with Taiwan, they are humbled by the hospitality they have experienced. In both of our islands, she said, hospitality is more than just a custom – it forms a part of our identities. She noted that despite being nearly 2,000 miles apart, we are connected by the Pacific Ocean and common roots, and our ancestors both value family, community, and tradition. That is why being here today, she said, she feels a strong sense of familiarity, like reconnecting with old friends. The governor remarked that Taiwan has evolved so quickly in all areas of essential life, sustenance, economy, and prosperity, adding that Taiwan’s resources in such areas as health, education, data, AI, advanced technology, aquaculture, agriculture, and commerce enhance our economic stability. She stated her belief that in collaboration and support, and working with each other, we can gain prosperity, maintain freedom and democracy, and live in peace.  Governor Leon Guerrero stated that their delegation is here to see how they can partner with Taiwan to help raise the quality of life for both our peoples, mentioning that one special concern of theirs is tourism. Tourism, she said, is the most influential engine and driver for the economy and quality of life in Guam, but they cannot have a vibrant economy and tourism without air connectivity. She added that they are prepared to help in any way to provide incentives and low-cost fees so that they can get more airlines from Taiwan to establish permanent flight schedules to Guam, so as to drive development in Guam’s tourism industry. Governor Leon Guerrero then proceeded to introduce each of the members of her delegation before remarking that while they have been very busy on this visit they are always reminded of the freedom and democracy that the people must protect. She said she looks forward to a great, strong relationship between Taiwan and Guam in cooperation on social and economic issues, in culture, marketing, tourism, and freedom and democracy. Among those in attendance were First Gentleman Jeffrey A. Cook, Chief of Staff Jon Junior Calvo, Director of the Department of Administration Edward Birn, General Manager of the Guam Visitors Bureau Regine Biscoe Lee, Deputy Executive Manager of the Guam International Airport Authority Artemio “Ricky” Hernandez, Board of Directors Chairman of the Guam International Airport Authority Brian J. Bamba, Deputy General Manager of the Guam Economic Development Authority Carlos Bordallo, Director of Landscape Management Systems Guam Bob Salas, Chairperson of the Guam Chamber of Commerce Tae Oh, President of the University of Guam Anita Borja Enriquez, and Director of the Guam Taiwan Office Felix Yen (嚴樹芬). After the meeting, President Lai, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, hosted a luncheon for Governor Leon Guerrero, her husband, and the delegation.

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets delegation from European Parliament
    On the morning of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the European Parliament. In remarks, President Lai thanked the European Parliament for continuing to pay close attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and voice support for Taiwan. The president expressed hope for an even closer relationship and diversified cooperation between Taiwan and the European Union. The president said that Taiwan and the EU can work together in such areas as semiconductors, AI, and green energy to create more resilient supply chains for global democracies and contribute to global prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome our guests to the Presidential Office. After being elected last year, MEPs Reinis Pozņaks and Beatrice Timgren are making their first visits to Taiwan, demonstrating support for Taiwan through concrete action. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome and appreciation. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the European Parliament for continuing to pay close attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Just last month, the European Parliament adopted resolutions with regard to annual reports on the implementation of the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy and Common Security and Defence Policy. These resolutions reaffirmed the EU’s steadfast commitment to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. The European Parliament also condemned China for continuing to take provocative military actions against Taiwan and emphasized that Taiwan is a key democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. It called on the EU and its member states to continue working closely with Taiwan to strengthen economic, trade, and investment ties. Once again, I thank the European Parliament for voicing support for Taiwan. Just as MEPs Pozņaks and Timgren are visiting Taiwan to strengthen Taiwan-EU exchanges, our Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) also led a delegation to Europe last year, marking the first in-person dialogue between high-ranking economic and trade officials of Taiwan and the EU. Moving ahead, we look forward to bringing Taiwan-EU ties even closer and to diversifying our cooperation. The EU is Taiwan’s largest source of foreign investment. Both sides are highly complementary in such areas as semiconductors, AI, and green energy. Through our joint efforts, we can create more resilient supply chains for global democracies and further contribute to global prosperity and development. Looking ahead, I hope that MEPs Pozņaks and Timgren will continue to make the case in the European Parliament for the signing of a Taiwan-EU economic partnership agreement. This would not only yield mutually beneficial development, but also consolidate economic security and boost international competitiveness for both sides. In closing, I am sure that you will gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan through this visit. Please feel welcome to come back as often as possible as we continue to elevate Taiwan-EU ties.  MEP Pozņaks then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to be here and thanking everybody involved in arranging this trip that allows them the opportunity to better know Taiwan. He added that it is definitely not the last time they will be here, as Taiwan is a very beautiful country. MEP Pozņaks mentioned that he comes from Latvia, and despite their being on the other side of the world, they know how the Taiwanese people feel, because they also have a big neighbor who is claiming that Latvia belongs to them. Unfortunately, he said, there is already war in Europe, but he is confident that their situation is similar to Taiwan’s, adding that they have a neighbor who uses disinformation attacks. MEP Pozņaks said that we live in very challenging times, and that our choices will define the future of the world, asking whether it will be a world where the rule of law prevails or where physical power and aggression succeeds. Coming from a small country, he said he clearly understands that for them there is no other possibility; they must protect the world where the rule of law prevails. That is why now, he emphasized, it is very crucial for all democracies around the world to stick together to protect our freedoms, values, and democracy. MEP Timgren then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for meeting with them and saying it is a big honor. Noting that they arrived here two days ago and that while she really loves Taiwan, its food, and the good weather, she stated that the reason they are here is because of the values that we share, our good relationships, and solidarity with other democratic countries in the world, which is important for them in Europe and in Sweden. MEP Timgren, referring to MEP Pozņaks’s earlier remarks, said that they face a big threat from Russia that is discernible even in the European Parliament. Actually, she pointed out, there is a war inside Europe that shows us how important it is that we support one another. She said that the Russian people thought it would be easy to take over Ukraine, but it was not, because all European countries stepped up and provided weapons and support. And that is why, MEP Timgren said, it is important that democratic countries maintain good relationships and let China and Russia see that we have good relationships, because a part of defense is solidarity. In closing, she expressed her gratitude for having the honor to be here in this beautiful country.

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai hosts state banquet for President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Republic of Palau
    On the evening of May 20, President Lai Ching-te, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, hosted a state banquet at the Presidential Office in honor of President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the Republic of Palau and his wife. In remarks, President Lai said that he looks forward to working closely with President Whipps to promote tourism exchanges and sports cooperation so that Taiwan and Palau shine brightly together on the international stage. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to host this banquet tonight at the Presidential Office for President Whipps, First Lady Valerie Whipps, and the esteemed members of their delegation. Welcome to Taiwan. During my trips to Palau in 2022 and last year, President and First Lady Whipps received me with great hospitality. Wearing my island shirt, I enjoyed a very friendly reception from the people of Palau. It felt warm and friendly, just like being welcomed back home. The first time I visited Palau, President Whipps and I piloted a boat to the Milky Way lagoon. We both tried volcanic mud facial masks. We also fished together and enjoyed the breeze as we walked on the beach. Last year, on my second visit to Palau, I was honored to be invited to address the National Congress. I also observed the results of the close bilateral cooperation between our two nations. Due to its world-famous ocean scenery, Palau is sometimes referred to as “God’s aquarium.” And it is even possible to snorkel with sharks. It leaves a deep impression. Nothing compares to seeing Palau firsthand. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan and Palau launched a travel bubble that created a safe means of travel. Now, with the pandemic behind us, I hope that even more Taiwanese can tour Palau and gain a greater understanding of our diplomatic ally. In addition to tourism exchanges, I mentioned on my visit to Palau last year that I hoped Taiwan and Palau could promote sports cooperation by providing training away from home. Next month, Palau will be holding the Pacific Mini Games. And right now, Palau’s national baseball and table tennis teams are holding training sessions here in Taiwan. We will do our utmost to support Palau’s national players and we hope they stand out and achieve outstanding results in the events. I look forward to working closely with President Whipps so that Taiwan and Palau shine brightly together on the international stage. Thank you! Mesulang! President Whipps then delivered remarks, saying that it is truly an honor to be here once again one year after President Lai’s inauguration. Mentioning that this is his first state visit after being reelected to a second term, he said that it is important to be here among friends, and that we are more than friends, we are family. He thanked President Lai for the generous words and, most importantly, Taiwan’s enduring support. He remarked that our relationship continues to get stronger in each passing year. President Whipps said that President Lai’s diplomacy initiative, leadership, and vision deeply resonate with them. Diplomacy must be rooted in our shared values, he said, and an unwavering support for our allies and a commitment to a sustainable, inclusive development are all deeply appreciated by their people. President Whipps emphasized that, as we look into the future and the challenges that we face, from security to climate change, it is so important that we are united. He added that it is important for the world, and especially important for them in Palau, that they stand up for Taiwan, so that Taiwan can participate on international fora that address climate change, security, and health, because they know the world is better when Taiwan has a seat at the table. Mentioning that Palau will host the Pacific Islands Forum next year, President Whipps said that Palau remains committed to working closely with Taiwan to ensure a successful event, and that they will continue to speak up for Taiwan’s indispensable contributions as we stand together against any efforts to silence or isolate democratic partners. President Whipps said that our nations have navigated challenges and emerged stronger, bound by a partnership that is built on trust, respect, and hope for a better world. Whether it is in clean energy, education, smart medicine, or tourism, our shared journey is just beginning, he said, and we are stronger together.  Also in attendance at the banquet were Palauan Minister of State Gustav Aitaro, Minister of Public Infrastructure and Industries Charles Obichang, Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl, Senate Floor Leader Kerai Mariur, House of Delegates Floor Leader Warren Umetaro, High Chief of Ngiwal State Elliot Udui, Governor of Peleliu State Emais Roberts, and Governor of Koror State Eyos Rudimch.

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
    In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Alleged Securities Fraud at MediPharm Labs Says Apollo Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Multiple Highly Credible Sources Reveal Disturbing Evidence of Alleged Systemic Violations of Securities Laws at MediPharm Labs; Immediate Regulatory Action Demanded

    Apollo Capital’s Six Director Nominees Are Committed to Restoring Transparency and Value to MediPharm’s Shareholders

    URGES SHAREHOLDERS TO VOTE THE GOLD PROXY CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND DISREGARD MEDIPHARM LABS’ GREEN PROXY CARD

    TORONTO, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo Technology Capital Corporation (“Apollo Capital”), which together with its affiliates and associates collectively is one of the largest shareholders of MediPharm Labs Corp. (TSX: LABS) (OTCQB: MEDIF) (FSE: MLZ) (“MediPharm”, “MediPharm Labs”, or the “Company”), owning approximately 3% of the Company’s common stock, today issued an urgent warning to shareholders, regulators, and the investing public concerning serious allegations of alleged extensive securities act disclosure violations committed by MediPharm Labs’ Board of Directors (the “Board”) and management team.

    Apollo Capital has received alarming reports from multiple highly credible and independent sources revealing that MediPharm Labs allegedly engaged in deliberate, systematic financial misfeasance and deceptive accounting practices aimed at grossly misleading investors and artificially inflating the Company’s reported revenues and stock valuation. Such allegations represent blatant violations of securities laws, fiduciary obligations, and ethical business conduct, potentially exposing MediPharm and its Board to serious legal and financial consequences.

    Given the grave seriousness and substantial credibility of these allegations, Apollo Capital urgently demands an immediate, robust investigation by regulatory authorities including the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC), the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Apollo Capital further insists that MediPharm’s Board of Directors immediately cooperate fully with all regulatory investigations, transparently disclose all related information, and suspend any management or Board members implicated in these serious allegations pending investigation outcomes.

    Apollo Capital has received credible information regarding these allegations directly from a current MediPharm Labs Board member, specifically implicating MediPharm’s Chairman, Chris Taves, Managing Director and Head of Capital Markets for Asia at BMO and a CPA, in orchestrating schemes to intentionally overstate Company revenues. It is curious that starting recently, Chris Taves serves as both the Board Chair and the Audit Committee Chair. Sources allege that MediPharm engaged partners in deceptive practices to artificially boost revenue reporting, misleading investors into perceiving growth where none truly existed.

    Apollo Capital demands to know if this is the reason that Michael Bumby just stepped down as Audit Committee Chair and has not stood for re-election to the MediPharm Board.

    “These allegations paint a profoundly troubling picture of calculated corporate conduct to overstate revenues and in turn mislead shareholders,” stated Apollo Capital. “Immediate transparency, accountability, and significant leadership changes are essential to restore credibility at MediPharm. The current Board and management owe shareholders an obligation to take immediate and decisive action to prevent further damage.”

    Apollo Capital directly challenges each MediPharm Board member—Shelley Potts, Michael Bumby, Chris Halyk, Chris Taves, Keith Strachan, and David Pidduck—to publicly address these allegations openly and transparently. Apollo Capital reiterates its repeated calls for full disclosure, particularly emphasized in its press release asking about these misfeasance allegations before MediPharm’s Q1 earnings call and its follow-up press release highlighting the Company’s disastrous financial performance and refusal to answer shareholder questions. Any Board member failing to acknowledge and publicly address these allegations will be perceived as complicit in the alleged misfeasance.

    In its news release prior to the Q1 earnings call, the first question that Apollo Capital urged MediPharm shareholders to ask the management team was:

    “These numbers aren’t even audited and MediPharm has been accused of misleading accounting practices in the past, including relating to revenue. Why should anyone believe anything that you say? Are you currently recognizing revenue the same way that you were two years ago? Please answer this question clearly without wordplay, subterfuge or material misrepresentations.”

    For the integrity of the capital markets, Apollo Capital demands that each board member of MediPharm Labs – Shelley Potts, Michael Bumby, Chris Halyk, Chris Taves, Keith Strachan, and David Pidduck – answer the question above.

    As a significant shareholder, Apollo Capital insists on a thorough audit to clarify how much of MediPharm’s claimed ‘profitability’, ‘revenue’, and ‘growth’ have been engineered though improper accounting.

    Apollo Capital remains committed to aggressively pursuing accountability, transparency, and the protection of shareholder interests, and will vigilantly monitor ongoing developments.

    MediPharm Labs Shareholders can visit www.CureMediPharm.com, to sign up for important campaign updates.

    VOTE THE GOLD PROXY CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND DISREGARD MEDIPHARM LABS’ GREEN PROXY CARD

    To access Apollo Capital’s Circular and related proxy materials, including a proxy or voting instruction form, visit SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Contacts
    For Shareholders:
    Carson Proxy
    North American Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-530-5189
    Local or Text Message: 416-751-2066 (collect calls accepted)
    E: info@carsonproxy.com

    For Media:
    CureMediPharm@gasthalter.com

    Legal Disclosures
    Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption under Canadian Law

    In connection with the Annual Meeting, Apollo Capital has filed an amended and restated dissident information circular (the “Circular”) in compliance with applicable corporate and securities laws. Apollo Capital has provided in, or incorporated by reference into, this press release the disclosure required under section 9.2(4) of NI 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”) and the corresponding exemption under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), and has filed the Circular, available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Circular contains disclosure prescribed by applicable corporate law and disclosure required under section 9.2(6) of NI 51-102 in respect of Apollo Capital’s director nominees, in accordance with corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. The Circular is hereby incorporated by reference into this press release and is available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The registered office of the Company is 151 John Street, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4N 2L1.

    SHAREHOLDERS OF MEDIPHARM ARE URGED TO READ THE CIRCULAR CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders are able to obtain free copies of the Circular and any amendments or supplements thereto and further proxy circulars at no charge under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, shareholders are also able to obtain free copies of the Circular and other relevant documents by contacting Apollo Capital’s proxy solicitor, Carson Proxy Advisors Ltd. (“Carson Proxy”) at 1-800-530-5189, local (collect outside North America): 416-751-2066 or by email at info@carsonproxy.com.

    Proxies may be revoked in accordance with subsection 110(4) of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) by a registered shareholder of Company shares: (a) by completing and signing a valid proxy bearing a later date and returning it in accordance with the instructions contained in the accompanying form of proxy; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder’s attorney authorized in writing; (c) by transmitting by telephonic or electronic means a revocation that is signed by electronic signature in accordance with applicable law, as the case may be: (i) at the registered office of the Company at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting is to be held, or (ii) with the chair of the Annual Meeting on the day of the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting; or (d) in any other manner permitted by law. In addition, proxies may be revoked by a non-registered holder of Company shares at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary. It should be noted that revocation of proxies or voting instructions by a non-registered holder can take several days or even longer to complete and, accordingly, any such revocation should be completed well in advance of the deadline prescribed in the form of proxy or voting instruction form to ensure it is given effect in respect of the Annual Meeting.

    The costs incurred in the preparation and mailing of any circular or proxy solicitation by Apollo Capital and any other participants named herein will be borne directly and indirectly by Apollo Capital. However, to the extent permitted under applicable law, Apollo Capital intends to seek reimbursement from the Company of all expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of its director nominees at the Annual Meeting.

    This press release and any solicitation made by Apollo Capital is, or will be, as applicable, made by such parties, and not by or on behalf of the management of the Company. Proxies may be solicited by proxy circular, mail, telephone, email or other electronic means, as well as by newspaper or other media advertising and in person by managers, directors, officers and employees of Apollo Capital who will not be specifically remunerated therefor. In addition, Apollo Capital may solicit proxies by way of public broadcast, including press release, speech or publication and any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws, and may engage the services of one or more agents and authorize other persons to assist it in soliciting proxies on their behalf.

    Apollo Capital has entered into an agreement with Carson Proxy Advisors (“Carson Proxy”) for solicitation and advisory services in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the Meeting, for which Carson Proxy will receive a fee not to exceed $250,000, together with reimbursement for reasonable and out-of-pocket expenses. Apollo Capital has also engaged Gasthalter & Co. LP (“G&Co”) to act as communications consultant to provide Apollo Capital with certain communications, public relations and related services, for which G&Co will receive a minimum fee of US$75,000 in addition to a performance fee of US$250,000 in the event that Apollo Capital’s nominees make up a majority of the Board following the Annual Meeting, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses.

    No member of Apollo Capital nor any of their associates or affiliates has or has had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the beginning of the Company’s last completed financial year or in any proposed transaction that has materially affected or will or would materially affect the Company or any of the Company’s affiliates. No member of Apollo Capital nor any of their associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting, other than setting the number of directors, the election of directors, the appointment of auditors and the approval of the ordinary resolution approving, among other things, the Company’s amended and restated equity incentive plan dated May 8, 2025 and the unallocated awards available thereunder.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward‐looking statements. All statements contained in this filing that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forward‐looking, and the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “plan,” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of Apollo Capital and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. All forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof and Apollo Capital disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur, or of which Apollo Capital hereafter becomes aware, except as required by applicable law.

    Hashtags: #ShareholderActivism #CorporateGovernance #InvestorProtection #Investor Alert #Investor Fraud #FinancialRegulation #CorporateCrime #FinancialCrime #HomelandSecurity #DHS #OpioidCrisis #OpioidEpidemic #OpioidLitigation #OpioidVictims #BMO #DEA #ONDCP

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tenable Announces Intent to Acquire Apex Security to Expand Exposure Management Across the AI Attack Surface

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLUMBIA, Md., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tenable® Holdings, Inc., the exposure management company, today announced its intent to acquire Apex Security, Inc., an innovator in securing the rapidly expanding AI attack surface. Tenable believes the acquisition, once completed, will strengthen Tenable’s ability to help organizations identify and reduce cyber risk in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

    Generative AI tools and autonomous systems are rapidly expanding the attack surface and introducing new risks — from shadow AI apps and AI-generated code to synthetic identities and ungoverned cloud services. In 2024, Tenable launched Tenable AI Aware which already helps thousands of organizations detect and assess AI usage across their environments. Adding Apex capabilities will expand on that foundation — adding the ability to govern usage, enforce policy, and control exposure across both the AI that organizations use and the AI they build. This move reinforces Tenable’s long-standing strategy of delivering scalable, unified exposure management as AI adoption accelerates.

    “AI dramatically expands the attack surface, introducing dynamic, fast-moving risks most organizations aren’t prepared for,” said Steve Vintz, Co-CEO and CFO, Tenable. “Tenable’s strategy has always been to stay ahead of attack surface expansion — not just managing exposures, but eliminating them before they can be exploited.”

    “As organizations move quickly to adopt AI, many recognize that now is the moment to get ahead of the risk — before large-scale attacks materialize,” said Mark Thurmond, Co-CEO, Tenable. “Apex delivers the visibility, context, and control security teams need to reduce AI-generated exposure proactively. It will be a powerful addition to the Tenable One platform and a perfect fit for our preemptive approach to cybersecurity.”

    Founded in 2023, Apex attracted early interest from CISOs and top investors, including Sam Altman (OpenAI), Clem Delangue (Hugging Face), and venture capital firms Sequoia Capital and Index Ventures. The company quickly emerged as an innovator in securing the use of AI by developers and everyday employees alike — addressing the growing need to manage usage, enforce policy, and ensure compliance at scale.

    “The AI attack surface is deeply intertwined with everything else organizations are already securing. Treating it as part of exposure management is the most strategic approach. We’re excited to join forces with Tenable to help customers manage AI risk in context — not as a silo, but as part of their broader environment,” said Matan Derman, CEO and Co-Founder of Apex Security.

    Following the acquisition close, Tenable expects to deliver integrated capabilities in the second half of 2025 as part of Tenable One — the industry’s first and most comprehensive exposure management platform. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The deal is expected to close later this quarter.

    About Tenable

    Tenable® is the exposure management company, exposing and closing the cybersecurity gaps that erode business value, reputation and trust. The company’s AI-powered exposure management platform radically unifies security visibility, insight and action across the attack surface, equipping modern organizations to protect against attacks from IT infrastructure to cloud environments to critical infrastructure and everywhere in between. By protecting enterprises from security exposure, Tenable reduces business risk for approximately 44,000 customers around the globe. Learn more at tenable.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking information related to Tenable, and its acquisition of Apex Security that involves substantial risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. You can generally identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as the words: “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “explore,” “evaluate,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” or “will,” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on Tenable’s current plans, objectives, estimates, expectations and intentions and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Tenable’s control. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the acquisition and product developments and other possible or assumed business strategies, potential growth opportunities, new products, the intended timing of integration of Apex Security’s offerings into Tenable One, and potential market opportunities. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, our ability to successfully integrate Apex Security’s operations; our ability to implement our plans, forecasts and other expectations with respect to Apex Security’s business; our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, including the possibility that the expected benefits from the acquisition will not be realized or will not be realized within the expected time period; disruption from the acquisition making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; the inability to retain key employees; the negative effects of the consummation of the acquisition on the market price of our common stock or on our operating results; unknown liabilities; attracting new customers and maintaining and expanding our existing customer base; our ability to scale and update our platform to respond to customers’ needs and rapid technological change, increased competition on our market and our ability to compete effectively, and expansion of our operations and increased adoption of our platform internationally.

    Additional risks and uncertainties that could affect our financial results are included in the section titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 and other filings that we make from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In addition, any forward-looking statements contained in this communication are based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable as of this date. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons if actual results differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements.

    Contact Information:
    Investor Relations
    investors@tenable.com

    Media Relations
    Tenable
    tenablepr@tenable.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d5a6a88-0f94-4544-bc75-f65ca530d369

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crowd Street Unveils New Brand Building Initiative to Lead the New Frontier of Self-Directed Private Market Investing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Crowd Street, the direct-access private market investment platform dedicated to helping members reach their financial ambitions, today unveiled a new brand building initiative to empower the next generation of private market investors who prefer to invest independently through more self-directed opportunities. The new brand’s feature asset is a manifesto film that conveys the company’s new vision.

    Private market investing has traditionally been reserved for institutions and elite wealth managers that primarily serve extremely high net-worth individuals. Crowd Street is changing that dynamic by providing private market opportunities directly to the millions of accredited investors, many of whom are looking for investments through new avenues and prefer to use a self-directed platform to manage their investments. Only about three percent of individual investors’ assets are allocated to private market opportunities today, but industry research projects that will rapidly expand, and become a market opportunity in the trillions of dollars by 2028.

    Crowd Street is uniquely positioned to lead the category. As of April 2025, with more than $4.4B invested through its platform solely in commercial real estate, Crowd Street is poised to scale by working with top asset management firms to introduce new fund options across additional asset classes, including private equity and private credit, later this year.

    “Our new brand identity is a realization of our vision to help more people gain access to self-directed private market investing,” said Crowd Street CEO John Imbriglia. “We are not just building a marketplace — we are creating an ecosystem where accredited investors can independently explore, evaluate, and invest in private market opportunities with confidence.”

    Crowd Street’s New Brand Vision
    Crowd Street is empowering an emerging investor class that wants the same access to private market investments as the institutions but without the need to work with a wealth manager. The company is working with asset managers to offer new private market funds for accredited investors through a direct and seamless experience.

    “Our sophisticated members expect a higher standard,” said Crowd Street CMO Rodes Ponzer. “The reality is that it’s not for everyone. Our members are accredited investors — individuals who have the funds to diversify their investments and the patience to invest responsibly in the private markets. What is compelling about what we do is that we are extending the invitation to join in on the action. We provide the opportunity to gain the same access that until now has historically been reserved for the institutions and the ultra well–connected.”

    Crowd Street’s New Brand Identity
    The company is making a strategic transition from a single-word brand to a two-word naming convention — Crowd Street. The new two-word brand conveys a timeless utility, evolving from its previous name, which emerged during an era of heightened interest in crowdfunding.

    Crowd Street — two words — represents a physical destination. Crowd Street is both literal and figurative, part location, part navigation, virtual and actual, where investors are free to explore the possibilities and pursue their financial ambitions. 

    To reframe the entire category and position the brand in the same league as Wall Street, this new brand reflects Crowd Street as one of the two major ways to invest: In public markets, which is done on Wall Street, and in private markets on Crowd Street. 

    The company tagline “Welcome to Crowd Street” and the longer slogan “Welcome to your home for direct access to private market investing” underscore the company’s evolution towards a kinder and wiser brand experience for its members. It conveys a tone of warmth, inclusion, and hospitality, with a more personal and approachable feel. Plus, it creates a positive tone and sets the stage for the additional services to come in the future.

    The company also unveiled its new logo: a symbolic gateway to a realm of new investment opportunities. It represents a crossroads where opportunities intersect, choices are made and new directions are taken. Both literal and figurative, the logo is part location and part navigation. Crowd Street serves as a destination where investors are free to explore the possibilities and pursue their financial goals.

    The new brand identity and related creative assets were developed as part of a “super-agency” collaboration that includes several former holding company executives: Independent Executive Creative Director Peter Moore Smith; Dear Future founder Matt Kandela teamed up with Blake Enting and Derek Lockwood from misterwolf; and Amber Hahn, Chief Strategy Officer at Now What.

    About Crowd Street 

    Crowd Street empowers its members to reach their financial ambitions through self-directed private market investments. The platform offers a carefully selected marketplace of alternative investment opportunities that have historically only been available to a small group of people. In addition to providing advanced tools, research, and insights to help investors confidently explore these exclusive opportunities, Crowd Street is also building a member experience rooted in trust and experience – further bridging the gap between investment opportunities and true financial wealth. Learn more at https://www.CrowdStreet.com/.

    Media Contact
    LaunchSquad
    CrowdStreet@launchsquad.com

    CrowdStreet, Inc. (“Crowd Street”) offers investment opportunities and financial services on its website. Broker dealer services provided in connection with an investment are offered through CrowdStreet Capital LLC (“Crowd Street Capital”), a registered broker dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through CrowdStreet Advisors, LLC (“Crowd Street Advisors”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Crowd Street and a federally registered investment adviser. Investment opportunities available through Crowd Street are speculative and involve substantial risk. You should not invest unless you can sustain the risk of loss of capital, including the risk of total loss of capital. All investors should consider their individual factors in consultation with a professional advisor of their choosing when deciding if an investment is appropriate.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Flexera bolsters FinOps offering with Spot Eco and Ocean, and signs GreenOps partnership with Greenpixie

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ITASCA, Ill., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flexera, the global leader in technology spend and risk management, today announced significant integration milestones within Flexera One platform and Spot Eco, its cloud commitment management solution and Spot Ocean, its Kubernetes infrastructure optimization solution. Further bolstering its FinOps capabilities, the company is also announcing an OEM partnership with Greenpixie, a cloud sustainability data company, that will integrate Greenpixie cloud sustainability data (or GreenOps) into Flexera One’s Cloud Cost Optimization solution.

    “These additions to Flexera One FinOps will boost the business impact of FinOps teams, especially with managing commitments, optimizing containerized workloads, and cloud sustainability initiatives,” said Jay Litkey, Senior Vice President, Cloud and FinOps at Flexera. “The data from Eco and Ocean provides FinOps teams with actionable insights to maximize savings and reduce waste, beyond just visibility and recommendations. Greenpixie’s data will provide essential cloud sustainability data to FinOps teams needing to prioritize or report on GreenOps progress.”

    Flexera One begins offering Eco and Ocean data

    Flexera closed its acquisition of Spot in March, and the technical integration of Spot’s product portfolio has begun to show significant progress. Eco helps to automate savings in the cloud through purchasing contractual commitments and leveraging discounts. Starting in May 2025, Cloud Cost Optimization users can access Cloud Commitment Management natively within Flexera One (powered by Spot Eco). The integration allows Flexera One Cloud Cost Optimization users to track, analyze and optimize their commitments.

    Flexera One Cloud Cost Optimization users also now have Kubernetes cost visibility and rightsizing recommendations powered by Spot Ocean. Ocean is a Kubernetes operations automation solution that allows users to optimize container infrastructure and realize cost savings.

    Further integration work is in progress to bring Spot’s Virtual Machine optimizer Elastigroup and MSP-first cloud financial management tool CloudCheckr capabilities into Flexera One and allow frictionless, secure movement between Flexera One and Spot products.

    Over time Eco, Ocean, Elastigroup and CloudCheckr will all be renamed as products under the Flexera One portfolio as one of many steps to create the most complete Technology Spend and Risk Management platform in the market.

    New Partnership with Greenpixie

    According to the Flexera 2025 State of the Cloud report, over half (57%) of respondents indicated they either have, or plan to have, a defined sustainability initiative that includes cloud carbon footprint tracking in place within twelve months. As IT sustainability reporting becomes more critical and expected, FinOps teams are uniquely positioned to lead efforts that reduce both unnecessary spend and environmental impact.

    The new Greenpixie partnership includes an OEM agreement which integrates Greenpixie’s cloud sustainability data into Flexera One, providing Flexera customers with both cost and cloud-based emissions data in a single, familiar interface. The Flexera One Cloud Sustainability offering (an add-on to Cloud Cost Optimization) also complements Flexera’s existing on-premises and manufacturer-provided carbon data with cloud-based emissions data (such as CO2, water and electricity details).

    “Flexera is uniquely placed to embed Greenpixie sustainability data into the heart of cloud operations where it can supercharge FinOps and IT decarbonization goals,” said John Ridd, CEO of Greenpixie. “With fine-grained CO2, electricity and water data, sustainability can become the town square of IT – where stakeholders can collaborate to deliver IT objectives in new innovative ways. The Greenpixie integration into Flexera One’s Cloud Cost Optimization solution is the digital embodiment of this town square, where sustainability can catalyse FinOps goals like never before.”

    Find Flexera at FinOps X, June 2-5, 2025 in San Diego, CA and learn more about our sessions, special events, and more on our blog. For those Cloud Cost Optimization customers or partners interested in joining the Early Access program for Flexera One Cloud Sustainability, more details can be found here.

    To learn more about Flexera One FinOps, please visit: https://www.flexera.com/products/flexera-one/finops

    Follow Flexera

    Follow Greenpixie

    About Flexera

    Flexera helps organizations understand and maximize the value of their technology, saving billions of dollars in wasted spend. Powered by the Flexera Technology Intelligence Platform, our award-winning IT asset management, FinOps and SaaS management solutions provide comprehensive visibility and actionable insights on an organization’s entire IT ecosystem. This intelligence enables IT, finance, procurement, FinOps and cloud teams to address skyrocketing costs, optimize spend, mitigate risk and identify opportunities to create positive business outcomes. More than 50,000 global organizations rely on Flexera and its Technopedia reference library, the largest repository of technology asset data. Learn more at flexera.com.

    For more information, contact:

    Ciri Haugh

    Flexera

    publicrelations@flexera.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Broadcom’s Private Cloud Outlook 2025 Report Reveals Definitive Cloud Reset

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Private cloud now rated as a strategic equal to public cloud, driven by cost predictability, GenAI requirements, and trust in delivering on security and compliance needs
    • 53% surveyed say private cloud is their top priority for deploying new workloads over the next three years
    • 84% use private cloud for both traditional enterprise apps and modern, cloud-native workloads

    PALO ALTO, Calif., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Private clouds are no longer playing catch-up, and public clouds are no longer the default as organizations recalibrate their cloud strategies. This “cloud reset” was the key takeaway from the Private Cloud Outlook 2025 report, an in-depth global survey of 1,800 senior IT leaders conducted by Illuminas, in partnership with Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO). More than half (53%) of survey respondents say private cloud is their top priority for deploying new workloads over the next three years, while 69% are considering workload repatriation from public to private cloud, with one-third having already done so. Private cloud is also now a strategic equal for AI and cloud-native apps, with 66% preferring to run container and Kubernetes-based applications on private cloud or a mix of public and private, while 55% prefer private cloud for AI model training, tuning and inference.

    “This report makes it clear: private cloud is a strategic platform for IT modernization,” said Prashanth Shenoy, vice president of product marketing, VMware Cloud Foundation Division (VCF) at Broadcom. “Customers are intentionally architecting for flexibility, placing workloads in environments that offer the best balance of performance, control, and cost efficiency. The cloud reset presents an opportunity to create a more effective, secure and cost-efficient IT environment. Organizations that strategically adopt a modern private cloud can better support secure GenAI innovation, improve fiscal visibility, and accelerate workload repatriation.”

    Security, GenAI, and Cost Predictability Accelerate the Shift to Private Cloud
    As IT leaders modernize their infrastructure, they are increasingly turning to private cloud to meet a range of critical needs, from securing sensitive data to managing unpredictable GenAI workloads to improving financial visibility.

    Security and compliance

    • 92% trust private cloud for security and compliance needs.
    • 66% are “very” or “extremely” concerned about public cloud compliance, and security is cited as the leading driver for workload repatriation from public cloud.

    Generative AI requirements

    • Data privacy and security concerns (49%) top the list of GenAI adoption challenges.
    • Organizations are choosing private cloud environments for AI workloads at nearly the same rate as public cloud (55% vs. 56%).

    Cost predictability and reduction

    • 90% value private cloud’s financial visibility and predictability.
    • 94% report at least some level of waste on public cloud spend.
    • 49% believe more than 25% of their public cloud spend is wasted, creating significant optimization opportunities.

    Accelerating the Private Cloud Momentum
    Real-world public cloud experiences, the rapid rise of GenAI workloads, and increasing demands for security, compliance, and cost predictability are driving this strategic cloud realignment. To fully capitalize on private cloud advantages, organizations must address two key challenges: overcoming siloed IT teams and a perpetuating skills gap. Respondents identified siloed IT teams present the greatest challenge to private cloud adoption (33%), and 30% cite a lack of in-house skills/expertise as a barrier to private cloud adoption. Organizations that transition from technology silos to platform teams can focus on upskilling staff to permanently close the skills gap and reduce reliance on professional services. The report found that 81% are now structuring their technical organizations around a platform team rather than technology silos.

    View the full survey and learn about additional report findings here.

    Survey Methodology and Definitions
    The Private Cloud Outlook 2025 is based on a global survey conducted by market research firm Illuminas on behalf of Broadcom. The survey was fielded from March 6 to April 4, 2025, and included 1,800 senior IT decision-makers across small, medium-sized, and large enterprises in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. Respondents represented sectors such as financial services, government, healthcare, insurance, and pharmaceuticals. The study presented the following descriptions of cloud for reference to participants, aligned with Broadcom’s definitions as well as with NIST standards:

    • Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.
    • Private cloud is a dedicated cloud infrastructure provisioned for the exclusive use of a single organization. This infrastructure may be managed by the organization itself or by a third party and can be located on-premises or at a co-location facility.
    • Public cloud is shared cloud infrastructure run by a third-party service provider. It is accessible to anyone, including the general public, and, for the purposes of this survey, does not include SaaS such as Microsoft 365, Workday, or ServiceNow.

    About Broadcom
    Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO) is a global technology leader that designs, develops, and supplies a broad range of semiconductor, enterprise software and security solutions. Broadcom’s category-leading product portfolio serves critical markets including cloud, data center, networking, broadband, wireless, storage, industrial, and enterprise software. Our solutions include service provider and enterprise networking and storage, mobile device and broadband connectivity, mainframe, cybersecurity, and private and hybrid cloud infrastructure. Broadcom is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Palo Alto, CA. For more information, go to www.broadcom.com.

    Broadcom, the pulse logo, and Connecting Everything are among the trademarks of Broadcom. The term “Broadcom” refers to Broadcom Inc., and/or its subsidiaries. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Media Contact:

    Roger T. Fortier
    VCF Communications, Broadcom Inc.
    roger.fortier@broadcom.com
    +1.408.348.1569

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Rate’s Nicole Santizo Sets the Standard for High-Net-Worth Lending in Silicon Valley

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rate, a leader in fintech mortgage solutions, is proud to spotlight the continued success of Nicole Santizo, one of the nation’s top-producing loan originators and a trusted mortgage advisor to some of Silicon Valley’s most sophisticated clients.

    Consistently closing more than $100 million in loan volume annually, Santizo is recognized for her production and deep consultative approach. She provides clients with tailored financing strategies designed to meet their unique financial profiles and long-term goals.

    Operating out of Los Altos, Santizo serves high-net-worth individuals, self-employed entrepreneurs, and affluent buyers navigating the competitive Bay Area real estate market. A key part of her value proposition is access to Rate’s exclusive suite of Portfolio loan programs, which offer uncommon flexibility not found at most traditional banks.

    These proprietary products allow borrowers to:

    • Secure jumbo financing with minimal down payment, desirable in today’s depressed equity markets.
    • Qualify based on cash flow or asset positions rather than traditional tax return analysis, ideal for clients with complex income structures.

    “Today’s affluent buyer needs more than a low rate. They need a smart plan and the kind of strategic guidance that comes from direct experience and understanding of non-conventional income scenarios,” said Santizo. “What we offer through Rate’s Portfolio programs allows me to customize financing for clients who might not fit the mold at traditional institutions. It’s a game changer for Silicon Valley professionals and entrepreneurs.”

    In a region where market dynamics shift quickly and client expectations are high, Santizo’s ability to combine local expertise, white-glove service, and innovative lending options continues to set her apart in California and nationwide.

    About Rate

    Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Honors and awards include: Top 5 Mortgage Lender by Inside Mortgage Finance for 2024; Best Mortgage Lender for First-Time Homebuyers by NerdWallet for 2023; HousingWire’s Tech100 award for the company’s industry-leading FlashClose℠ digital mortgage platform in 2020, MyAccount in 2022, and Language Access Program in 2023; the most Scotsman Guide Top Originators for 11 consecutive years; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years; and Chicago Tribune’s Top Workplaces list for seven straight years. Visit rate.com for more information.

    Media Contact:
    press@rate.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Peer Launches the World’s First Operating System for Agentic AI, Giving AIs a Form and a Place to Live

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Peer, the AI-native platform reinventing the internet as a persistent, explorable universe, today launched its Global Simulation—the first real-time digital Earth where users show up as avatars, connect by location, and build relationships in a living, spatial network.

    Peer is designed as a native environment for Agentic AI—an operating system where AI can move, perceive, and act within a shared world. By giving AI form and placing it in a common, persistent, and spatial environment, Peer creates a natural interface for human-AI interaction.

    Every user is paired with their own AI agent—an intelligent companion that learns, evolves, and operates alongside them. This makes AI feel personal, useful, and embodied—an essential step toward making AI adoption universal and seamlessly woven into daily life. Together, they navigate a dynamic world where geography, memory, and imagination converge. And because Peer’s interface is grounded in real-world geography, it doesn’t just simulate the world—it connects to it, enabling AI to extend into physical reality through augmented reality and spatial computing.

    “We’re not launching another app—we’re opening the portal to a new digital world,” said Tony Tran, Founder and CEO of Peer. “Imagine a platform that grows with the virality of a social network but monetizes like a game. This is the start of something far bigger than social—it’s the foundation for the AI economy.”

    The Map Becomes the Medium
    At the core of Peer is a dynamic 3D map of the world—a new substrate where digital experiences are anchored to real places. This isn’t a game world or escapist simulation—it’s a living layer that blends the physical and digital into one continuous environment. Users appear as avatars tied to real-world and virtual locations, with full control over their visibility and presence.

    Powered by GPS and VPS (Virtual Positioning System), Peer transforms the map into an interactive space where people can explore, drop content, discover others, and build communities. Unlike traditional apps or games, this is a digital reality that starts from the real world—making it feel authentic, grounded, and alive. Where Pokémon GO limited you to walking around your IRL location, Peer lets you travel anywhere in the world and then jump into the map to explore.

    “Peer is the best of Roblox, Pokémon GO and Discord, all together and all powered by AI,” said Tran. “It’s persistent, composable and built to scale beyond entertainment into utility, commerce and creation.”

    A Platform for Presence
    Peer’s launch includes:

    • A real-time simulation of Earth, enabling seamless movement and avatar presence across the globe
    • Customizable avatars, giving users full control over how they appear—socially, partially, or invisibly
    • Location-aware presence, keeping users grounded in the physical world without ever leaving the app
    • A spatial interface built for discovery, not addiction—replacing endless feeds with meaningful proximity

    Another Peer breakthrough is Composable World Layering: one persistent world, infinite personal experiences. Two users in the same virtual Times Square might see different events, ads, or portals—each tailored to them. It’s a new canvas for creators, brands, and AI to build uniquely for every person.

    According to Tran, Peer is the first platform that lets the entire world enter the same persistent simulation—a planet-scale MMO tied to the real world—that is entirely accessible instantly from any mobile phone.

    Unlike traditional games or closed virtual worlds that divide users by servers, regions, or gameplay loops, Peer opens access to a single, real-time world where anyone on Earth can step in together. No lobbies. No waiting rooms. No fragmentation. It’s the gateway to infinite, immersive experiences powered by AI.

    “We’ve built a platform with infinite entry points,” said Tran. “From São Paulo to Seoul, anyone with a phone can step into the simulation and begin their journey in an AI-powered world.”

    Download the Peer app today at the App Store, Google Play or peer.inc.

    About Peer
    Peer is an AI-native platform reimagining the internet as a persistent, explorable universe. By combining a simulation of Earth with generative AI, avatars, and real-time spatial interaction, Peer creates a new operating system for human-AI coexistence. Peer is currently rolling out its first phase and will expand into AI agents, immersive worldbuilding, and custom hardware.

    Media contact:
    Kerry Metzdorf
    Big Swing
    kerry@big-swing.com
    978-609-0766

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7823c8de-8035-43ac-8797-ef5f9a32e9ff

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: University Pension Plan reports 10.3% return and sustained growth in 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — University Pension Plan Ontario (UPP) today announced a 10.3% annual net rate of return in 2024, growing net assets to $12.8 billion. The Plan remained fully funded at 102% with a surplus, staying well-equipped to pay members’ pensions today and over the long term.

    These results were published in UPP’s 2024 Annual Report, which outlines the Plan’s performance and progress during its third full operating year.

    “UPP was created to protect and grow the pension security of our members, and that responsibility guides every decision we make. This past year marked an important step forward—strengthening the foundation that supports our members through strong investment performance, disciplined risk management, and the continued rollout of dedicated member services,” said Barbara Zvan, President and Chief Executive Officer, UPP. “As we build on this momentum, we remain firmly focused on delivering the stability, value, and long-term peace of mind our members count on in a rapidly changing world.”

    UPP’s investment program aims to achieve long-term returns that deliver secure and stable pension benefits at a reasonable and predictable cost to members. By balancing the need for strong returns and contribution and benefit stability, UPP’s portfolio is built to navigate short-term market turbulence while continuing to derive long-term value and dependable retirement income.

    “Our 2024 investment performance highlights the continued progress we’re making in establishing a strong, well-diversified portfolio aligned with our long-term objectives. By strengthening internal capabilities and refining our asset mix, we are unlocking the benefits of scale—efficiency, diversification, and control. Looking ahead, we will continue to actively manage the portfolio, pursue high-quality opportunities, and maintain a balanced, strategic approach to long-term value creation,” said Aaron Bennett, Chief Investment Officer, UPP.

    As a defined benefit pension plan, UPP was designed to serve the university sector in Ontario, providing faculty and staff with secure pension income for life. UPP’s 2024 highlights include:

    • Held a 102% funded status with a $0.2 billion surplus1
    • Achieved a 10.3% annual net rate of return
    • Grew net assets by $1.1 billion to $12.8 billion
    • Reached $1 billion committed or invested in private assets since 2022
    • Added over $250 million in commitments to climate solutions across several asset classes2
    • Published UPP’s Inequality Stewardship Plan, which seeks to manage the financial impacts of this systemic risk
    • Reduced portfolio greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity3 by 59% from its 2021 baseline, exceeding the 2025 target 
    • Began a phased launch of a full suite of pension administration services, including a new member and employer service experience and digital resources
    • Welcomed new members from two university sector organizations and two universities4
    • Provided UPP pensioners, survivors, and dependents in pay with an inflation protection increase of 2.03% to the UPP portion of their pensions, effective January 1, 20255
    • Recognized by Institutional Connect with its Institutional Investor of the Year and Investment Innovation of the Year awards.

    More information about UPP’s 2024 results, including financial statements, can be found in the 2024 Annual Report, available on myupp.ca.

    About UPP

    University Pension Plan Ontario (UPP) is a jointly sponsored defined benefit pension open to all Ontario university sector employers and employees. UPP manages $12.8 billion in pension assets and proudly serves over 41,000 members across five universities and 14 sector organizations. The plan invests to deliver secure, stable pension benefits for members today and for generations to come. For more information, please visit myupp.ca and follow UPP on LinkedIn.

    Media

    For media inquiries, please contact media@universitypensionplan.ca

    1 On a smoothed and market value basis.
    2 Climate solutions include assets or entities that are expected to contribute to climate change mitigation and/or facilitate adaptation to its impacts. For more information about how UPP defines climate solutions, please refer to UPP’s Climate Transition Investment Framework.
    3 Measured as tonnes CO2 e/$M invested.
    4 As of January 1, 2025.
    5 Effective January 1, 2025. Pre-conversion inflation protection is based on the prior plan’s indexing formula, which varies by each plan joining UPP.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Research from Sprout Social Finds Social Media is the Top Place Gen Z Turns to for Search, Surpassing Traditional Search Engines

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • More than 1 in 3 consumers across age groups prefer searching on social platforms first for product reviews and recommendations
    • 76% of users say social content influenced a purchase in the last six months, including 90% of Gen Z
    • Respondents say social platforms deliver net-positive impacts on their mental health, financial decisions, and social lives

    CHICAGO, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gen Z isn’t just spending more time on social media; they’re turning to it first when they need answers, which is shaping how they live, learn, and shop. According to new research from Sprout Social (NASDAQ: SPT), an industry-leading provider of cloud-based social media management software, this generation now prefers social media over traditional search engines. This shift is fueled by a growing trust in social, especially among younger generations, who largely report meaningful benefits from their time on social platforms, including improved mental health, financial literacy, and social connections.

    Sprout Social’s Q2 2025 Pulse Survey, conducted by Glimpse, surveyed more than 2,200 social users across the US, UK, and Australia. The research finds that when looking for information, 41% of Gen Z turn to social platforms first, making social now the #1 place they search, ahead of traditional search engines (32%), chat-based AI tools (11%), and friends/family (9%). In addition, 37% of consumers across age groups prefer to go to social first when searching for product reviews and recommendations, while 35% prefer to use it first to find local restaurants and activities, underscoring social’s prominent role in discovery and commerce. This discoverability has a real bottom-line impact for businesses, as 76% of respondents say content on social (e.g., ads, influencer posts, brand content) has influenced a purchase in the past six months, with this number rising to 90% among Gen Z and 84% among Millennials.

    “Largely driven by Gen Z, social is becoming the new search engine,” said Scott Morris, chief marketing officer of Sprout Social. “This shift is transformative, not just for social media, but for commerce and business overall, because it’s changing how consumers discover products and brands. For marketers, this means making social the front-line channel for building awareness, managing perception, engaging with customers, and receiving feedback. Social is where discovery happens now, making it the future of business.”

    The findings shed light on why younger generations are choosing social as their first stop for search: they trust it to deliver not just information, but meaningful, positive experiences. While social media isn’t without its flaws, the survey shows that a vast majority of younger users report positive outcomes from their time on social. This is likely a result of Gen Z and Millennials using social more intentionally–to search, engage, and more actively curate their feeds to reflect their interests and values. The findings show that:

    • 60% of all users say social has had a net-positive impact on their mental health in the past six months, v. 18% who say it’s had a negative impact. This number rises to 68% for Millennials and 71% for Gen Z.
    • 47% say social has helped improve their financial decision-making, with this number even higher among Millennials (53%) and Gen Z (62%). Only 13% of respondents say it’s had a negative impact.
    • 53% report improved social lives through social media engagement, with younger generations (61% for Millennials and 64% for Gen Z) even more likely to view social’s impact as positive. Only 14% of respondents say it’s had a negative impact.

    Additional findings from Sprout Social’s Q2 2025 Pulse Survey include:

    • Facebook (81%), YouTube (71%), and Instagram (66%) remain the top platforms, with YouTube moving up to the second most popular platform since Sprout’s latest Index report
    • 51% of global users plan to spend more time on community-based platforms like Reddit in the next six months. This number rises to 63% for Gen Z and Millennials
    • Gen Z (52%) and Millennials (53%) are leading the adoption of creator-driven platforms like Substack and Patreon
    • The content consumers rely on social media for most is cooking and recipe inspiration (50%), followed by TV/movie recommendations (43%), music discovery (36%), and a wide range of personal interest topics, including sports, beauty, health, news, fashion, and travel.

    Learn more about how Sprout Social’s latest customer care updates can empower marketers to provide insights-driven social care, like autonomous AI care agents and new avenues to automate, at every step of the customer journey.

    About the Research
    This consumer survey was conducted online by Glimpse, a global market research firm, on behalf of Sprout Social. The survey included 2,280 social media users across the US, UK, and Australia and was conducted from April 23 to May 5, 2025.

    Social Media Profiles:
    www.linkedin.com/company/sprout-social-inc-/
    www.instagram.com/sproutsocial

    www.x.com/SproutSocial
    www.x.com/SproutSocialIR
    www.facebook.com/SproutSocialInc

    Contact
    Kaitlyn Gronek
    Email: pr@sproutsocial.com
    Phone: (773) 904-9674

    About Sprout Social
    Sprout Social is a global leader in social media management and analytics software, built on the belief that All Business is Social℠. Sprout’s intuitive platform puts powerful social data into the hands of approximately 30,000 brands so they can deliver smarter, faster business impact. Named the #1 Best Software Product by G2’s 2024 Best Software Award, Sprout offers comprehensive publishing and engagement functionality, customer care, influencer marketing, advocacy, and AI-powered business intelligence. Sprout’s software operates across all major social media networks and digital platforms. For more information about Sprout Social (NASDAQ: SPT), visit sproutsocial.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Payday Loans Without Credit Check: Payday Loans Near Me For Bad Credit – Money Mutual

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, Nevada, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Key Takeaways

    • This article provides an overview of the best payday loans without credit checks, along with essential information to consider before applying.
    • Payday loans without credit checks often come with extremely high interest rates (sometimes 400% APR or higher)
    • Most legitimate lenders perform some type of credit check, but some focus on income rather than credit score
    • Alternative options like cash advances, credit union loans, and payment plans are usually cheaper than payday loans
    • Payday loans should only be used for genuine financial emergencies when all other options are exhausted
    • Always verify a lender’s license and reputation before providing personal information
    • Repay on time to avoid additional fees and debt traps that can worsen your financial situation
    • Never borrow more than you can realistically repay from your next paycheck

    Money problems always come at the worst time — like when your wallet is empty but bills keep piling up. Maybe your car broke down, your roof is leaking, or you have sudden medical expenses. And payday is still days away. It’s easy to feel stressed and unsure what to do next.

    For people with bad credit or no credit history, regular banks usually say no. This leaves many Americans looking everywhere for quick cash options. That’s why payday loans without credit checks seem so attractive – they offer fast money without looking at your credit history.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

    START WITH A SIMPLE APPLICATION TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR A LOAN THAT FITS YOUR NEEDS

    But are these loans really your best choice? This guide covers everything about best payday loans without credit check – the good parts, the bad parts, and other options you might not know about. We’ll show you what you’re really getting into and how to avoid expensive mistakes.

    What Are Payday Loans and Their Challenges?

    Payday loans are small, short-term loans designed to be repaid when you get your next paycheck – usually within two weeks. They typically range from $100 to $1,000, depending on your state’s laws and your income level.

    The process seems simple: You write a post-dated check or authorize an electronic debit from your bank account for the loan amount plus fees. The lender gives you cash on the spot or deposits money into your account. When your next payday comes around, the lender cashes your check or withdraws the money electronically.

    Sounds straightforward, right? Here’s where things get tricky:

    • Sky-high costs: Payday loans often charge fees that amount to annual percentage rates (APRs) of around 400% or higher. For comparison, credit cards typically have APRs between 12% and 30%.
    • The debt cycle trap: Many borrowers can’t pay back the full amount when their next paycheck arrives. The lenders know this and offer to “roll over” the loan for an additional fee. This can start a dangerous cycle where you keep paying fees every two weeks without reducing the original loan amount.
    • Financial quicksand: What starts as a $300 loan can balloon into over $1,000 in debt within just a few months if you keep extending the loan.

    FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY BEFORE YOU APPLY WITH A FREE CHECK

    What Are the Best Payday Loans Without Credit Check?

    The best payday loans without credit check are those that offer fast approval, reasonable fees, and transparent terms without requiring a hard credit inquiry. While most payday lenders perform some credit verification, a few lenders focus primarily on income and other factors instead of your credit score.

    Some alternatives to traditional payday loans include:

    • Money Mutual — uses AI to evaluate your overall financial profile, not just credit score, and offers fast funding with lower rates.
    • Credit union Payday Alternative Loans (PALs) — offer lower interest rates and longer repayment terms.
    • Cash advance apps like Earnin or Dave — provide small advances on earned wages with minimal fees.

    Key features to look for in the best payday loans without credit check:

    • Clear, upfront fees and APR under 36% when possible
    • Flexible repayment terms that fit your budget
    • Transparent application process with no hidden charges
    • Positive borrower reviews and verified licensing

    CHECK IF YOU QUALIFY QUICKLY WITH A SIMPLE, NO-OBLIGATION APPLICATION

    Types of Loans Available for People with Bad Credit

    When your credit isn’t great, you still have several loan options besides traditional payday loans:

    • Personal loans for bad credit: Some online lenders specialize in working with people who have credit challenges. Their rates are higher than prime loans but much lower than payday loans.
    • Secured loans: By putting up collateral (like your car title), you might qualify for better rates. The risk? You could lose your property if you can’t repay.
    • Payday alternative loans (PALs): Many credit unions offer these small-dollar loans with much more reasonable terms than standard payday loans.
    • Credit-builder loans: These unique loans are designed specifically to help rebuild your credit while borrowing small amounts.
    • Peer-to-peer loans: Online platforms connect borrowers directly with individual investors, sometimes resulting in more flexible approval standards.

    How to Choose the Best Payday Loan Without a Credit Check?

    When you’re dealing with credit challenges, not all loans are created equal. The best payday loans without credit check share these important features:

    • Reasonable costs: Even with bad credit, the best lenders won’t charge you outrageous fees. Look for APRs under 36%, which consumer advocates consider the upper limit of affordability.
    • Clear, honest terms: Good lenders explain exactly what you’ll pay, when it’s due, and what happens if you can’t pay on time. No surprises!
    • Manageable payments: The best loans fit into your budget without requiring financial gymnastics. You should be able to pay for essentials like housing, food, and utilities while making loan payments.
    • Credit bureau reporting: If you’re going to take on debt, you might as well get credit for paying it back responsibly. Choose lenders that report your on-time payments to at least one credit bureau.
    • No prepayment penalties: Life happens. If you come into some extra cash, you should be able to pay off your loan early without getting hit with extra fees.

    Tips for Finding the Best Payday Loans Without Credit Check

    While true “no credit check” loans are rare from legitimate lenders, some do place less emphasis on your credit score. Here’s how to find the best options and avoid the worst:

    • Research the lender thoroughly: Check their reviews on sites like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns of complaints about hidden fees or aggressive collection practices.
    • Verify their license: Legitimate lenders must be licensed in the states where they operate. Check your state’s financial regulation department website to confirm a lender’s status.
    • Read the fine print: Before signing anything, understand exactly what you’re agreeing to. Pay special attention to the APR, repayment schedule, and what happens if you can’t pay on time.
    • Watch for red flags: Be suspicious of lenders who guarantee approval, pressure you to borrow more than you need, or don’t have a physical address.
    • Have your documents ready: To speed up the process, gather proof of income (pay stubs), bank statements, ID, and proof of residence before applying.

    SEE HOW MUCH YOU CAN BORROW WITH JUST A QUICK ELIGIBILITY CHECK

    Money Mutual: A Best Choice for Payday Loan Without Credit Check

    While not strictly a payday lender, Money Mutual has become a popular option for people with limited or damaged credit who are searching for the best payday loans without credit check and need quick cash.

    Unlike traditional payday lenders, Money Mutual is a legitimate online lending platform that uses artificial intelligence to evaluate borrowers. Founded by former Google employees in 2012, Money Mutual takes a unique approach to lending.

    Instead of focusing exclusively on your credit score, they look at factors like your education, job history, and earning potential. This alternative approach often helps people qualify who might get rejected elsewhere.

    Key features that make Money Mutual stand out:

    • Fast funding: Most approved borrowers receive their money within one business day.
    • Reasonable loan amounts: You can borrow between $1,000 and $50,000, much more flexible than traditional payday loans.
    • Fair rates for most borrowers: While rates vary based on your profile, they’re typically much lower than payday loans.
    • Simple online application: The entire process takes place online and can be completed in minutes.
    • Soft credit pull to check rates: You can see what you qualify for without hurting your credit score.

    What Sets Money Mutual Apart from Other Lenders?

    Money Mutual differentiates itself from both traditional banks and payday lenders in several important ways:

    • Personalized Loan Options: Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, Money Mutual tailors loan offers based on your unique financial situation and potential.
    • Transparent Terms: Money Mutual clearly explains all costs upfront, including origination fees (typically 0-8% of the loan amount) and interest rates.
    • Competitive Interest Rates: While rates vary widely based on your profile, they typically range from 5.4% to 35.99% APR – much lower than payday loans but higher than prime bank loans.
    • Excellent Customer Service: Money Mutual’s customer support team is available by phone, email, or chat to answer questions about your application or loan.
    • Fixed payment schedule: Unlike payday loans that can trap you in a cycle of debt, Money Mutual loans have fixed terms (typically 3 or 5 years) with predictable monthly payments.

    FIND OUT YOUR LOAN OPTIONS IN MINUTES WITHOUT AFFECTING YOUR CREDIT SCORE

    How Money Mutual Supports Credit Rebuilding?

    Beyond just providing access to funds, Money Mutual can actually help improve your credit situation:

    • Reports to All Major Credit Bureaus: Your on-time payments are reported to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, helping build positive credit history.
    • Financial Education Resources: Money Mutual provides articles and tools to help borrowers better understand and manage their finances.
    • No Prepayment Penalties: If your financial situation improves, you can pay off your loan early without any extra fees.
    • Manageable Payment Schedule: Regular, affordable payments help establish good payment habits that benefit your overall financial health.

    How to Apply for a Payday Loan Alternative Successfully?

    Whether you choose Money Mutual or another lender, here’s how to maximize your chances of approval:

    • Step 1: Check your credit report first. Get your free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com and fix any errors before applying.
    • Step 2: Calculate exactly how much you need. Borrow only what’s necessary for your emergency, not extra for wants.
    • Step 3: Gather your documentation. Have recent pay stubs, bank statements, ID, and proof of address ready.
    • Step 4: Compare multiple lenders. Don’t take the first offer – rates and terms can vary dramatically.
    • Step 5: Apply during business hours. If verification questions come up, customer service can help immediately.
    • Step 6: Be completely honest. Lying on loan applications is fraud and will eventually catch up with you.
    • Step 7: Read everything before signing. Never rush through the agreement, no matter how urgently you need the money.

    READY TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY? START YOUR SIMPLE APPLICATION NOW

    Alternatives to Loans for Improving Your Credit

    Sometimes the best loan is no loan at all. Before taking on debt, consider these alternatives:

    • Payment plans: Many medical providers, utilities, and even mechanics will work out payment plans if you ask.
    • Local assistance programs: Community organizations, religious groups, and government agencies often provide emergency assistance for utilities, food, and other necessities.
    • Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): Federal credit unions offer PALs with APRs capped at 28% and longer repayment terms than payday loans.
    • Cash advance apps: Services like Earnin, Dave, and Brigit let you access small amounts of your earned wages before payday for minimal fees.
    • Side gigs: Temporary work through platforms like Uber, DoorDash, or TaskRabbit can generate quick cash without debt.
    • Secured credit cards: With a small deposit, you can get a secured credit card that helps build credit with responsible use.
    • Credit counseling: Nonprofit organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling offer free or low-cost financial guidance to help you create a sustainable budget.

    Conclusion

    When financial emergencies strike and your credit isn’t perfect, the best payday loans without credit check might seem like your only option. But now you know that better alternatives exist, from Money Mutual’s AI-powered personal loans to credit union PALs to community assistance programs. If you absolutely must use a payday loan, borrow the smallest amount possible, have a concrete plan to repay it on time, and avoid rollovers at all costs. Remember that each rollover digs your financial hole deeper.

    The best long-term strategy isn’t finding better loans – it’s building financial stability through budgeting, saving, and improving your credit score. Even small steps like putting aside $5 per paycheck or paying bills on time can eventually lead to major improvements in your financial health.

    Emergency expenses are inevitable, but predatory debt doesn’t have to be. With the knowledge and resources from this guide on the best payday loans without credit check, you can navigate financial challenges more confidently while protecting your long-term financial wellbeing.

    APPLY EASILY TO FIND OUT WHAT LOANS YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR TODAY

    FAQs About Payday Loans Without Credit Checks

    Can you get a payday loan without a credit check?

    Some storefront payday lenders advertise “no credit check” loans, but most still verify your income and banking information. These loans typically come with extremely high fees and interest rates to compensate for the increased risk to the lender.

    Where is the easiest place to get a payday loan with bad credit?

    Local storefront payday lenders in states with relaxed lending laws typically offer the highest approval rates for bad credit borrowers. Online lenders like CashNetUSA and Advance America also commonly approve bad credit applications as long as you can prove steady income.

    What is the easiest loan to get with no credit?

    Secured loans using collateral (like pawn shop loans or title loans) are typically easiest to get with no credit history. Cash advance apps like Earnin or Dave are also accessible options for small amounts if you have regular direct deposits.

    Can I get a payday loan with a 500 credit score?

    Yes, most payday lenders will approve loans with a 500 credit score as they focus primarily on your income rather than credit history. You’ll typically qualify as long as you can show proof of regular income and meet their minimum earnings requirement (usually $1,000+ monthly).

    How to get $2,000 fast with bad credit?

    Try personal loans from bad-credit lenders like Money Mutual, OppLoans, or local finance companies that offer installment options. Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs) or secured loans using your vehicle or valuables as collateral are also viable options for getting $2,000 quickly.

    Is Fast Loan Advance Legit?

    Yes, Fast Loan Advance is a legitimate platform that connects borrowers with multiple lenders offering personal loans. However, it is not a direct lender and may share your information with several lenders, which can result in multiple credit inquiries. While many users find the application process simple and fast, some report high fees and aggressive marketing. Always review loan terms carefully before applying.

    Mail: customerservice@moneymutual.com

    Disclaimer

    The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Loan terms, approval rates, and interest rates vary by lender and individual applicant qualifications. Always read the full terms and conditions before applying for any loan. We are not a lender and do not guarantee approval or specific loan outcomes. Consult with a licensed financial advisor or the lender directly to understand your options and obligations. Use payday and personal loans responsibly and only when necessary.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: A.I. Drone Operations Flourishing as Global Quantum Computing Market Expected to Reach $5.3 Billion By 2029

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The global quantum computing market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. A report from MarketsAndMarkets projected that the global quantum computing market size will be valued at USD 5.3 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 32.7% during the forecast period through 2029. The report said: “Quantum computing is a growing technology that has the opportunity to make computing faster. These devices can perform valuable tasks but have a high rate of error. In short-term quantum computing, use cases will have a hybrid quantum operating model, a mix of traditional and quantum computers. In the short term, also known as the NISQ era, the revenue for quantum computing will be entirely generated from end-user industries and quantum computing research investments. Mid-term quantum computing is expected to witness many advantages over conventional computers. To achieve this stage, quantum algorithms with a high error correction ability are required. Long term quantum computing requires a high tolerance for error correction and scalability. At this stage, the value will be added by the quantum hardware, quantum software, and service providers. Systems segment to account for highest CAGR of the quantum computing market during the forecast period Quantum computer systems are designed to solve complex problems that traditional computers find difficult. Constant investments and development in quantum computing systems are driving the market during the forecast period. Quantum computing hardware launches are becoming increasingly common. The shipment of quantum computing systems is increasing daily. The cloud segment is projected to account for a larger share of the quantum computing industry than the on-premises segment from 2024 to 2029.” Active Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Quantum Corporation (NASDAQ: QMCO), Rigetti Computing, Inc. (NASDAQ: RGTI), D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), Supermicro, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMCI).

    MarketsAndMarkets concluded: The demand for the quantum computing market share is expected to have the largest share in the Asia Pacific region. Companies working in the area’s quantum computing market and the government are spending money on research in quantum computing. The race to build powerful quantum computers is heating up with big money bets. The race to build powerful quantum computers is heating up with big money bets. Tech giant IBM is throwing down a cool USD 100 million to help universities in Japan and the US develop whopper machines with 10,000 qubits.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Developing Quantum Computing and AI Drone Fleets to Prevent Wildfires in the Western US – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”) a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, today announces its strategic initiative to utilize quantum computing and AI-powered drones to revolutionize wildfire detection, forecasting, and response in the US Western and Coastal states. This innovative solution is part of ZenaTech’s expanding Clear Sky project, an initiative which aims to mitigate the increasing threat of billion-dollar weather events using high-precision environmental monitoring powered by AI drones, drone swarms and quantum-enhanced analytics.

    “We want to harness next-generation drone technology for frontline defence against one of America’s more dangerous natural threats” said Dr. Shaun Passley, CEO of ZenaTech. “By integrating quantum computing with our AI drone systems, we can process massive volumes of atmospheric and terrain data to provide near real-time wildfire predictions and response strategies with unmatched speed and accuracy.”

    The integration of quantum computing allows ZenaTech to process complex datasets far faster than traditional methods—turning raw drone telemetry into actionable intelligence for emergency response teams, forestry services, and environmental protection agencies.

    Using the ZenaDrone 1000 drone and fleets of drones equipped with thermal sensors, multispectral imaging, and 360-degree LiDAR, autonomous flight missions over 300 square miles can be performed. These drone swarms gather environmental data which is then processed using quantum computing platforms to build predictive models that simulate wildfire spread based on terrain, vegetation density, humidity, and wind patterns.

    ZenaTech’s recently acquired Portland, Oregon-based land survey engineering company and now a Drone as a Service office, will be part of this initiative surveying large tracks of land for wildfires and fire management testing incorporating drone swarm technology in the Northwest in the Pacific Coast areas. The company will also utilize its Wyoming Native American partnership for testing fire mitigation, and autonomous monitoring of tribal lands. The Clear Sky project initial team will be expanded to 20 engineers dedicated to the company’s R&D initiatives including wildfire modelling, geospatial optimization, and AI-augmented forecasting.

    Quantum computing is an emergent field of cutting-edge computer science harnessing the unique qualities of quantum mechanics to solve problems beyond the ability of even the most powerful classical computers of today, to process massively complicated mathematical problems and data at orders of magnitude faster speeds. Quantum computers can analyse vast and complex drone data much faster and more accurately, improving weather predictions and enhancing the ability to forecast extreme events.

    Last year, there were 58 separate billion-dollar weather disasters globally, the second highest on record, which includes 27 in the US caused by extreme weather including hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and severe storms— according to Gallagher Re’s Natural Catastrophe and Climate Report.    Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    In Additional ZENA News: ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Provides Quantum Computing Update on ‘Clear Sky’ Weather Forecasting Project?AI Drone Swarms to Combat Steep Rise in Billion Dollar Extreme Weather Events – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”) provided an update on its “Clear Sky” project, an R&D initiative soon to be released in a beta application version, that uses multiple AI drones in a drone swarm, and quantum computing for weather forecasting. The goal is to better predict localized weather including extreme weather events for business and government users, saving lives and billions of dollars.

    In the coming months, ZenaTech plans to expand its quantum computing project team to 20 by adding at least ten additional specialized engineers. This will accelerate the development and upcoming beta release of Clear Sky in addition to furthering other internal quantum computing projects currently underway.

    “Last year, there were 58 separate billion-dollar weather disasters globally, the second highest on record, which includes 27 in the US. Through the Clear Sky project, we will use AI-powered drone swarms and quantum computing to better predict these disasters and fill the critical atmospheric observation gaps of traditional weather data collection and satellite methods,” said CEO of ZenaTech Shaun Passley, Ph.D. “Drones with sensors flying at high altitudes can collect data in real time enabling greater spatial and temporal resolution resulting in more precise, up-to-the-minute weather insights to better anticipate the onset of extreme weather like tornadoes.” Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.zenatech.com/newsroom/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    Quantum Corporation (NASDAQ: QMCO) recently announced an update to its Professional Services portfolio, redefining its offerings to meet customers’ needs across the data lifecycle and provide greater flexibility in how services are consumed. Quantum uniquely delivers comprehensive data lifecycle management spanning high-speed ingest to data protection to long-term archiving. As organizations increasingly depend on data to drive AI initiatives, fuel innovation, and streamline operations, customers require tailored, efficient, and scalable services that evolve with their infrastructure and business goals.

    Structured around three core offerings—new subscription-based Value Packages, Deployment Services, and On-Demand Services—Quantum’s Professional Services are built to meet customers where they are in their data journey. Whether accelerating a new deployment, optimizing a legacy environment, or planning for future growth, these services offer scalable, expert-led support that aligns with both immediate needs and long-term strategies.

    Rigetti Computing, Inc. (NASDAQ: RGTI), a pioneer in full-stack quantum-classical computing, recently announced its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 and Recent Financial Highlights Were:

    Total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 were $1.5 million

    Total operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2025 were $22.1 million

    Operating loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $21.6 million

    Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $42.6 million

    Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 includes $62.1 million of non-cash gains from the change in fair value of derivative warrant and earn-out liabilities

    As of March 31, 2025 cash, cash equivalents and available-for-sale investments totaled $209.1 million

    As of April 30, 2025, following the previously announced closing of the share purchase by Quanta Computer, Inc., cash, cash equivalents and available-for-sale investments totaled $237.7 million

    “Rigetti is proud to be awarded important government-funded projects in the U.S. and U.K. to advance our technology, which demonstrates our continued leadership in superconducting quantum computing,” says Rigetti CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni. “We also are making great strides in developing innovative approaches to scaling to higher qubit count systems, which is possible due to our open and modular system architecture, in-house full-stack expertise, and world-class partners.”

    D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) recently announced the general availability of its Advantage2TM quantum computing system, a powerful and energy-efficient annealing quantum computer capable of solving computationally complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers. Featuring D-Wave’s most advanced quantum processor to date, the Advantage2 system is commercial-grade, and built to address real-world use cases in areas such as optimization, materials simulation and artificial intelligence (AI).

    “Today marks a significant milestone not just for D-Wave, but for the quantum computing industry as a whole, as we bring to market our sixth-generation quantum computer, a system so powerful that it can solve hard problems outside the reach of one of the world’s largest exascale GPU-based classical supercomputers,” said Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave. “It’s an engineering marvel, with substantial technical advancements that highlight D-Wave’s progress in scaling quantum technology to meet industry demands for growing computational processing power while maintaining energy efficiency.

    Supermicro, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMCI) recently announced that it is now taking orders for enterprise AI systems with NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell Server Edition GPUs. Supermicro’s broad portfolio of optimized servers enables AI and visual computing to be deployed in virtually any industry or environment. Supermicro’s suite of over 20 systems with RTX PRO Blackwell GPUs will significantly enhance performance for enterprise AI factory workloads. This includes AI inference, AI development and model fine-tuning, generative AI, AI-driven graphics & rendering, video content and streaming, and game development.

    Supermicro NVIDIA-Certified Systems with RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell GPUs will serve as building blocks for NVIDIA Enterprise AI Factory validated designs, integrating with NVIDIA Spectrum-X networking, NVIDIA-Certified Storage, and NVIDIA AI Enterprise software to create full-stack solutions, accelerating the deployment of on-premises AI.

    “Supermicro continues to lead the development of enterprise AI infrastructure, empowering the deployment of AI across industries at ever-greater scale,” said Charles Liang, president and CEO of Supermicro. “Supermicro’s Data Center Building Block Solutions® is the ideal platform for collaboration with NVIDIA Enterprise AI Factory validated designs based on the Blackwell architecture. Together, we will help enterprises ramp up AI adoption by building their own Enterprise AI Factories, accelerating AI inference, AI development, simulation, and graphics workloads for faster time-to-revenue.”

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

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    The MIL Network –