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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Global: Texas’ annual reading test adjusted its difficulty every year, masking whether students are improving

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeanne Sinclair, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Education, Memorial University of Newfoundland

    Millions of Americans take high-stakes exams every year. Caiaimage/Chris Ryan/iStock via Getty Images

    Texas children’s performance on an annual reading test was basically flat from 2012 to 2021, even as the state spent billions of additional dollars on K-12 education.

    I recently did a peer-reviewed deep dive into the test design documentation to figure out why the reported results weren’t showing improvement. I found the flat scores were at least in part by design. According to policies buried in the documentation, the agency administering the tests adjusted their difficulty level every year. As a result, roughly the same share of students failed the test over that decade regardless of how objectively better they performed relative to previous years.

    From 2008 to 2014, I was a bilingual teacher in Texas. Most of my students’ families hailed from Mexico and Central America and were learning English as a new language. I loved seeing my students’ progress.

    Yet, no matter how much they learned, many failed the end-of-year tests in reading, writing and math. My hunch was that these tests were unfair, but I could not explain why. This, among other things, prompted me to pursue a Ph.D. in education to better understand large-scale educational assessment.

    Ten years later, in 2024, I completed a detailed exploration of Texas’s exam, currently known as the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR. I found an unexpected trend: The share of students who correctly answered each test question was extraordinarily steady across years. Where we would expect to see fluctuation from year to year, performance instead appears artificially flat.

    The STAAR’s technical documents reveal that the test is designed much like a norm-referenced test – that is, assessing students relative to their peers, rather than if they meet a fixed standard. In other words, a norm-referenced test cannot tell us if students meet key, fixed criteria or grade-level standards set by the state.

    In addition, norm-referenced tests are designed so that a certain share of students always fail, because success is gauged by one’s position on the “bell curve” in relation to other students. Following this logic, STAAR developers use practices like omitting easier questions and adjusting scores to cancel out gains due to better teaching.

    Ultimately, the STAAR tests over this time frame – taken by students every year from grade 3 to grade 8 in language arts and math, and less frequently in science and social studies – were not designed to show improvement. Since the test is designed to keep scores flat, it’s impossible to know for sure if a lack of expected learning gains following big increases in per-student spending was because the extra funds failed to improve teaching and learning, or simply because the test hid the improvements.

    Why it matters

    Ever since the federal education policy known as No Child Left Behind went into effect in 2002 and tied students’ test performance to rewards and sanctions for schools, achievement testing has been a primary driver of public education in the United States.

    Texas’ educational accountability system has been in place since 1980, and it is well known in the state that the stakes and difficulty of Texas’ academic readiness tests increase with each new version, which typically come out every five to 10 years. What the Texas public may not know is that the tests have been adjusted each and every year – at the expense of really knowing who should “pass” or “fail.”

    The test’s design affects not just students but also schools and communities. High-stakes test scores determine school resources, the state’s takeover of school districts and accreditation of teacher education programs. Home values are even driven by local schools’ performance on high-stakes tests.

    Students who are marginalized by racism, poverty or language have historically tended to underperform on standardized tests. STAAR’s design makes this problem worse.

    What still isn’t known

    I plan to investigate if other states or the federal government use similarly designed tests to evaluate students.

    My deep dive into Texas’ test focused on STAAR before its 2022 redevelopment. The latest iteration has changed the test format and question types, but there appears to be little change to the way the test is scored. Without substantive revisions to the scoring calculations “under the hood” of the STAAR test, it is likely Texas will continue to see flat performance.

    The Texas Education Agency, which administers the STAAR tests, didn’t respond to a request for comment.

    The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.

    Jeanne Sinclair receives funding from the Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) of Canada.

    – ref. Texas’ annual reading test adjusted its difficulty every year, masking whether students are improving – https://theconversation.com/texas-annual-reading-test-adjusted-its-difficulty-every-year-masking-whether-students-are-improving-244159

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 29, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa and Opportunity International Unveil New Basketball Court in Nairobi, Kenya

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

    NAIROBI, Kenya, May 28, 2025/APO Group/ —

    NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) and Opportunity International, a global nonprofit organization that develops innovative programs that use financial services, training and support to address some of the greatest challenges facing those living in poverty around the world, unveiled a new outdoor basketball court at Loiswell Academy in Nairobi, Kenya, on Tuesday, May 27. 

    The unveiling follows the launch of a new court at Highland School in Nyamata, Rwanda, last week and supports NBA Africa’s commitment to build 1,000 courts on the continent over the next decade.

    The court was unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony by NBA Kenya Country Operations Lead Michael Finley, Opportunity International Board of Directors Member Ken Wathome, Opportunity International Executive Vice President, International Programs and Capital Solutions Randy Kurtz, Loiswell Academy Founder and Director Lois Mbugua and former NBA player Hasheem Thabeet, which was followed by a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA clinic for 100 boys and girls ages 16 and under. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 29, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Magna Mining Inc. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced that Magna Mining Inc. (TSX-V: NICU; OTCQX: MGMNF), a company engaged in the acquisition, production, development and exploration of mineral properties in Canada, with a current focus on copper, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Magna Mining Inc. upgraded to OTCQX from the OTCQB® Venture Market.

    Magna Mining Inc. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “MGMNF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    The OTCQX Market is designed for established, investor-focused U.S. and international companies. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. Graduating to the OTCQX Market from the OTCQB Market marks an important milestone for companies, enabling them to demonstrate their qualifications and build visibility among U.S. investors.

    About Magna Mining Inc.

    Magna Mining Inc is a producing mining company with a portfolio of copper, nickel and PGM operating, development and exploration projects in the Sudbury Region of Ontario, Canada. The Company’s primary assets are the producing McCreedy West copper mine and the past producing Levack, Podolsky, Shakespeare and Crean Hill mines. Additional information about the Company is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and the Company’s website (www.magnamining.com).

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.

    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Ocean Conference: “Curtain Raiser” Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Secretary-General of the Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) Li Junhua said, “The future of the ocean is not predetermined. It will be shaped by the decisions and the actions we are making now.”

    Today (27 May), Li Junhua, together with High-level representatives from France and Costa Rica briefed the press about the upcoming UN Ocean Conference.

    He said, “The ocean—our planet’s life-support system—is in a state of emergency. The evidence is overwhelming: rising temperatures, acidifying waters, plastic choking marine life, disappearing habitats, and the relentless overexploitation of resources.”

    He continued, “The health of the ocean is declining, and with it, the well-being of the human being. We actually depend on our ocean supply lines. However, there is still time to change our course—if we act collectively.”

    He said, “From 9 to 13 June 2025, the global community will gather in Nice, France, for the Third United Nations Ocean Conference, or UNOC3. This will not be just another routine gathering. We hope that it is a pivotal opportunity to accelerate action and mobilize all stakeholders across sectors and borders.”

    He also said, “UNOC3 will culminate in the adoption of the “Nice Ocean Action Plan” – a concise, action-oriented declaration, along with new and expanded voluntary commitments. This plan will be our collective blueprint to advance SDG 14: to conserve and sustainably use the ocean, seas, and marine resources.”

    He concluded, “The future of the ocean is not predetermined. It will be shaped by the decisions and the actions we are making now. Let us choose a healthy, resilient ocean—for our generation, and also for generations to come.”

    French Ambassador Jérôme Bonnafont stated, “The goal for this conference in Nice, for France, is a Nice Agreement that would be for the oceans what the Paris Agreement was for the climate ten years ago.”

    Maritza Chan Valverde, Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations, said, “Accelerating action means cutting decision-making time from years to months, mobilizing all actors, engaging 195 governments, more than 1,000 cities, more 500 corporations and billions of citizens simultaneously. This is an opportunity for the United Nations to be together and to show that we can deliver as one.”

    She concluded, “The third United Nations Ocean Conference will either reverse ocean decline by 2030 or document humanity’s failure to act. Five days, one ocean, a unique opportunity.”

    The high-level 2025 United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development (the 2025 UN Ocean Conference) will be co-hosted by France and Costa Rica and held in Nice, France, from 9 – 13 June 2025.

    The overarching theme of the Conference is “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean”.

    The Conference will involve all relevant stakeholders, bringing together Governments, the United Nations system, intergovernmental organizations, international financial institutions, other interested international bodies, non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions, the scientific community, the private sector, philanthropic organizations, Indigenous Peoples and local communities and other actors to assess challenges and opportunities relating to, as well as actions taken towards, the implementation of Goal 14.

    The Conference will build on the previous UN Ocean Conferences, hosted by Sweden and Fiji in 2017 in New York and by Portugal and Kenya in 2022 in Lisbon.

    The Nice Ocean Action Plan, made up of a political declaration and a list of voluntary commitments from stakeholders, will be adopted following international discussions during the Conference.

    Website: https://sdgs.un.org/conferences/ocean2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2Rj3skYyiw

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 28, 2025
  • MSP for paddy, pulses, oilseeds raised ahead of Kharif season

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Wednesday approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops for the 2025–26 marketing season.

    Among the crops that saw the highest MSP hike, nigerseed received the biggest absolute increase of ₹820 per quintal, followed by ragi at ₹596 per quintal, cotton at ₹589 per quintal, and sesamum at ₹579 per quintal. For paddy, the staple crop, the MSP has been raised by ₹69 per quintal.

    In the pulses category, the MSP of tur (arhar) has been raised by ₹450, moong by ₹86, and urad by ₹400 per quintal. Among oilseeds, the support prices for groundnut, sunflower seed, and soybean have been increased by ₹480, ₹441, and ₹436 respectively. The move is expected to support better price realization for farmers and reduce dependence on imports.

    The increase is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement of fixing MSPs at a minimum of 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production. According to the government, the expected margin for farmers over their cost of production is estimated to be highest in bajra at 63 per cent, followed by maize and tur at 59 per cent each, and urad at 53 per cent. For the remaining crops, the margin is estimated to be at least 50 per cent.

    The government stated that in recent years it has consistently promoted the cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and nutri-cereals, also known as Shree Anna, by offering comparatively higher MSPs. This is intended to not only improve farmers’ income but also to encourage nutritional security and crop diversification.

    Data shared by the government highlights a significant increase in procurement and financial support to farmers over the last decade. From 2014-15 to 2024-25, procurement of paddy stood at 7,608 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), compared to 4,590 LMT during 2004-05 to 2013-14. For all 14 Kharif crops combined, procurement during the same period was 7,871 LMT, as against 4,679 LMT in the previous decade.

    The MSP payout to paddy farmers surged to ₹14.16 lakh crore in the last decade, as compared to ₹4.44 lakh crore during 2004-05 to 2013-14. Similarly, the total MSP amount paid for all 14 Kharif crops was ₹16.35 lakh crore, a sharp rise from ₹4.75 lakh crore during the earlier period.

    India follows a three-season cropping calendar: Kharif crops, which are monsoon-dependent, are sown in June-July and harvested in October-November; Rabi crops are sown post-monsoon in October-November and harvested from January onwards; and summer crops are grown between the Rabi and Kharif seasons.

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Addressing measures of United States aimed against China’s shipping industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Yim Kong and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 28):

    Question:

    Last month, the United States released the findings of the “Section 301 Investigations” under the Trade Act of 1974 and announced that port fees would be imposed on vessels owned or controlled by Chinese entities (including Hong Kong entities), including vessels whose owner or operator is headquartered in Hong Kong and vessels of which more than 25 per cent of the equity interest is held by a citizen or citizens or the Government of Hong Kong. Hong Kong is the fourth largest shipping register in the world, with over 1 100 maritime-related companies currently operating here. Some preliminary analyses have pointed out that such maritime companies will be faced with risks such as an upsurge in operating costs and a decline in market competitiveness, and ship leasing and ship financing businesses will also be affected by knock-on impacts. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether the Government has systematically assessed the negative impact of the aforesaid measures of the United States on Hong Kong’s shipping and maritime-related industries, and formulated a cross-departmental collaboration plan to safeguard Hong Kong’s status as an international shipping centre, as well as companies’ legitimate rights and interests;

    (2) whether it will provide targeted relief measures to the affected companies engaged in shipping, ship leasing and so on, or provide certain financial support for them to adjust their route deployments; and

    (3) whether it has proactive measures to attract “non-US” ship operators or relevant high-end maritime service providers to carry on developing their business in Hong Kong?

    Reply:

    President,

    The United States (US) Government announced on April 17 this year the results of its Section 301 Investigations against Chinese maritime, logistics and ship building industries and decided to impose port fees on vessels owned or operated by Chinese (including Hong Kong and Macao) companies, and vessels built in China for the use of US ports. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has immediately issued a press release to express its strong opposition to the decision, particularly for the fact that the measures are blatantly discriminatory, deliberately dividing the international maritime community and undermining the spirit of international solidarity and co-operation.

    The HKSAR Government is highly concerned about the incident and the Transport and Logistics Bureau (TLB) has been maintaining close liaison with the industry to assess the situation and respond as needed. With regard to the various parts of Hon Yim’s question, my reply is as follows:

    (1) The US authorities has announced that the port fees will take effect on October 14 this year. For a vessel of 50 000 net tonnage, it will be charged US$2.5 million per entry into a US port, thereafter increased annually reaching US$7 million in April 2028. Each vessel will be charged up to a maximum of five times per year. The fees are indeed detrimental to others without beneficial to oneself, not only undermining the interests of the US port industry, cargo owners and consumers but also unfairly increasing the costs of Hong Kong’s shipping companies on their business operations routing to and from the US ports.

    Hong Kong is an international maritime centre supported by our country. Over the years, Hong Kong has attracted shipping companies of different capital backgrounds from all over the world to operate in the city by virtue of our “one country, two systems”, bilingual common law as well as a free and open business environment. Each of these shipping companies has its own specific business portfolio and clientele. The extent to which they will be affected would depend on the share of the US market in their respective portfolios and their scope for adjusting shipping routes and business portfolios. It is therefore difficult to generalise the situation.

    Recently, we have been visiting the shipping companies one after another, and the industry has reflected that the business environment in Hong Kong is indeed unrivalled and that the Hong Kong’s ship registry has brought an edge to their ships in terms of quality assurance and international reputation. The industry is striving to identify solutions to the incident, and we do not underestimate the pressure faced by them due to various commercial considerations. On the strength of our country’s strong backings, the HKSAR Government will render its full support to the Hong Kong’s shipping companies to cope with the challenges. At the same time, we urge the industry to stay confident and avoid making hasty decisions under short-term geopolitical pressures at the expense of the long-term development opportunities in Hong Kong.

    (2) We understand from the affected companies that they consider financial subsidies from the Government neither financially sustainable nor an effective solution to the problem. In contrast, the industry hopes that the Government can better consolidate the edges for the maritime sector operating in Hong Kong.

    In recent years, the Government has introduced a number of measures to enhance the competitiveness of the maritime industry, which has indeed saved up for a rainy day and enhanced the industry’s resilience in coping with the complex external circumstances. We will capitalise on our strengths via a systematic and proactive approach to reinforce the local maritime industry chain internally as well as to expand market opportunities in our country and the world externally. We would have four key areas of work in future, including strengthening the maritime ecosystem, leading the industry to seize the opportunities arising from green shipping, deepening Hong Kong’s role as an international exchange platform, and expanding opportunities in Mainland and overseas markets:

    (i) Strengthening the maritime ecosystem, including the introduction of a half-rate tax concession for commodity traders and enhancement of the existing tax concessions for the maritime industry, for which the legislative bill is to be submitted to the Legislative Council in the first half of next year; continuing to provide green cash incentives and implementing the Block Registration Incentive Scheme for Hong Kong-registered ships;

    (ii) Supporting and leading the industry to seize the opportunities arising from green shipping. The TLB has promulgated the Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering at the end of last year, with a view to promoting Hong Kong into a high-quality green maritime fuel bunkering centre by, inter alia, providing collaborative platforms for catalysing green maritime fuel supply and trading, thereby equipping the industry to cope with the international trend of green transition.

    (iii) Deepening Hong Kong’s role as an international exchange platform for facilitating interfaces between the local and overseas industry and expanding global business opportunities. The Government has been actively deepening collaborations with the international maritime organisations. The Hong Kong Maritime Week last year has been one of the most international editions ever where the key organisations like the International Chamber of Shipping and the International Maritime Organization had staged events in Hong Kong. These organisations have confirmed their continued participation in the Hong Kong Maritime Week this year and there would also be other international organisations staging events in Hong Kong for the first time.

    (iv) Assisting and leading Hong Kong shipping companies to expand opportunities in Mainland and overseas markets, capitalising on Hong Kong’s connectivity. This include establishing a “rail-sea-land-river” intermodal transport system with the Mainland for securing more cargo sources for Hong Kong, as well as utilising the port community system to be launched in January next year for connecting with the international maritime community, thereby assisting the industry to further enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

    In addition, the Government will soon set up the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board to be chaired by a non-official and provided with dedicated team and resources for enhancing its research, promotion and manpower training capabilities, so as to provide more effective support to the Government in promoting the development of Hong Kong’s maritime industry.

    (3) The aforementioned measures will significantly enhance Hong Kong’s business environment and attractiveness, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as an international maritime centre. We will continue to step up external promotion on the advantages of operating in Hong Kong through the Marine Department’s service points located in seven different continents and Invest Hong Kong’s network at home and abroad. The Marine Department will also set up a new dedicated team in the Middle East in the fourth quarter of this year for targeted promotion towards the emerging markets there.

    Thank you, President.

    Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    Issued at HKT 18:25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Killing is part of their life’: the men raised on violence who are both perpetrators and victims as South Sudan faces return to civil war

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Heidi Riley, Adjunct Research Fellow, University College Dublin, and Affiliate Researcher in the Department of War Studies, King’s College London

    *Some pseudonyms are used to protect the identities of interviewees.

    “I saw a lot of suffering.” The old man, Lokwi, gestures towards the woman cooking beside their hut as he talks. “The husband of this woman … was killed here.”

    The woman is Lokwi’s sister-in-law. He is recalling the day in 1988 when his brother was killed by soldiers from the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA). Lokwi was still a child when the SPLA captured the town of Kapoeta and surrounding settlements, where he lived with his family. The day his brother was killed, everybody was forced to leave:

    There was nothing good that day … They burned all the villages and the soldiers attacked the civilians. People were scattered.

    South Sudan – a central African country of around 11.5 million people split in half by the White Nile – suffered decades of conflict prior to gaining independence from the rest of Sudan in 2011. While independence brought optimism, this was thwarted two years later by internal disputes among the ruling parties that led to a resurgence of the violence.

    While a ceasefire was brokered in 2018 and a power-sharing agreement signed between opposing political factions, there has been a lack of political will to implement it. The dire economic situation, worsening food insecurity driven by climate change and political instability, and legacies of ethnic rivalries continue to perpetuate ethnically motivated violence and distrust between communities. In April, the head of the UN mission in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom, warned that the world’s youngest nation is once again on the brink of civil war.

    Amid this resurgence of violence, Lokwi – who is from the Toposa community – continues to be haunted by memories of the attack that killed his brother. Sitting under the shade of a tree in the village where it took place, he explains how he fled into the bush and survived for days on wild fruit until, starving, he managed to get to the town of Narus, where he was given some food by a local Dinka man.

    When Lokwi finally returned to his village, he found everything destroyed by fire – huts, livestock and granaries “all burned”. Whereas he decided to start again and rebuild the village, his surviving brother, now living in Narus, promised “never to step in this land again because of the memories and pain”.

    Today, Lokwi works as a peace activist in South Sudan. He spends a lot of time encouraging people in his village and the surrounding area to engage in peaceful dialogue with rival groups – and to resist violence. With an expression of concern, he explains the difficulties he faces in dissuading young men from engaging in violence:

    When I tell them to stop the conflict … we have homes and families who listen and stay calm, but other individuals like the [male] youths don’t listen, they still create problems.

    South Sudan’s long history of cattle raiding

    Over the course of 2024, Anna Adiyo Sebit and three other South Sudanese researchers interviewed more than 400 men and women from South Sudan’s Toposa and Nuer communities as part of the XCEPT programme. This programme, based at King’s College London, seeks to understand the role that conflict-related trauma plays in influencing who engages in violence and who doesn’t.

    As well as inter-ethnic fighting, South Sudan has a long history of cattle raiding. Cattle are central to the pastoralist communities which make up over half of the population, including ethnic groups such as the Dinka, Nuer and Toposa.

    In most rural households, financial capital is typically held in livestock, mainly cows – which are also required for dowry payments and as compensation for any crimes committed. This places high value on cattle ownership, meaning that raiding and inter-community disputes over cattle are common.

    Among South Sudan’s rural households, much of the financial capital is held in cows.
    Diego Delso via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-NC-SA

    And whereas these disputes were once fought with sticks, stones and spears, years of political conflict have left the country awash with guns – so cattle raiding has become a lethal activity. As one old man who described himself as a “retired warrior” explained:

    In our grandparents’ and grand ancestors’ [time], in battles or fighting we used stones, pangas, sticks, spears and arrows. [At this time there were] rare fights or raids waged against [other] tribes … But after the introduction of AK-47 machine guns, it accelerated [to] higher numbers of raids and increased casualties in both communities.

    Among these pastoralist communities, gender norms determine that where women and girls are tasked with maintaining domestic life, including sustaining subsistence farming and constructing huts, men are expected to keep and secure cattle. Many young men are active in cattle camps, which are in areas with better pastures where cows are taken to graze – but can be vulnerable to raids from other ethnic groups.

    In many parts of rural South Sudan, young men are expected to fight to secure and protect their livelihood – including achieving the required “bride price” for their marriage to go ahead. Successful cattle raids can earn a young man respect among his peers.

    But the trauma of experiencing violence from a young age, as so many of these young men have, is likely to be a factor in the perpetuation of various forms of violence in adulthood, including the prevalence of revenge killings.

    The high rates of violence are also having a devastating impact on women and girls in South Sudan. According to a 2024 UN Population Fund study, 65% of women and girls have experienced some form of gender-based violence, of which intimate partner violence is the most prevalent. The UN Mission in South Sudan has also reported a steep increase in sexual violence and abductions of women and girls by armed groups in 2024.

    Aware of the prevalence of violence against women by cattle youth, Lokwi speaks of confronting the issue at community meetings in his village where he brings together members of rival communities:

    The youths are also part of the meeting. Everybody is given the chance from both communities to talk, and we tell them ‘stop killing women in the bush’. I tell them that women are the ones who give birth to generations, and [ask]: ‘Why do you kill women?’ [Some] will feel touched and listen and stop – but there are other individuals [for] whom killing is part of their life … They will still kill women.

    Masculine expectations

    In South Sudan, like many countries, masculine expectations that associate men with being the provider or protector, and with characteristics of strength, stoicism and bravery, play an important role in how men experience trauma and the coping mechanisms they use.

    Men are often socialised into suppressing emotions such as sadness or hurt. As a result, alternative outlets for dealing with trauma and stress can manifest in more violent or aggressive emotions.

    I have spent many years researching how societal expectations of masculinity play into the way men respond to traumatic experiences. In narratives of wartime suffering, our understanding of male trauma is often overshadowed by the association of masculinity with the perpetration of violence.

    While not all men suffering from trauma respond in the same way, research by the Brazilian NGO Promundo has found that men and boys are more likely than women and girls to exhibit maladaptive coping behaviour such as risk-taking, low physical activity, withdrawal and self-harm – or violence in its multiple forms. There is also evidence that rates of alcohol and substance abuse are higher among men affected by trauma or high levels of stress.

    Psychological studies suggest a link between masculine norms, emotional restriction, and PTSD symptoms. As such, men are less likely to seek help or open up to others about the difficulties they are experiencing. This in turn increases their risk of developing negative coping mechanisms.

    During conflict or in situations of acute food insecurity, daily stresses through an inability to fulfil masculine expectations can become particularly acute – and lead to increasingly violent behaviour. This pattern emerges in many of the interviews conducted for the XCEPT project.

    SPLA soldiers in 2016: the head of the UN mission in South Sudan has warned the country is back on the brink of civil war.
    Jason Patinkin (Voice Of America) via Wikimedia Commons

    Eric, from the South Sudan state of Eastern Equatoria, lost his father when he was ten. His father was a fairly wealthy man but after his death, that wealth was passed on to Eric’s uncles on his father’s side, rather than his mother or her three co-wives. (The tradition of inheritance passing to male relatives is reflective of women’s lack of economic independence in rural South Sudan.)

    Eric was then required to respect his uncles as stepfathers as they became the de facto authority over his mother, her co-wives and their children. As the oldest son, he endured years of beatings from his stepfathers, as well as witnessing violence by them against his mother.

    Upon reaching adulthood, Eric said he realised he was able to escape the “catastrophic mistreatment from his stepfathers” and needed to “adventure” for his own survival. However, due to food shortages, survival meant engaging in cattle raiding.

    On his first raid, his “warrior group” secured a herd of cattle by killing the cattle owner. Eric was granted four cows – but apart from one, these had to be handed over to his stepfathers. As he explained:

    On my arrival, people in my village were excited to see me back without any injuries and I brought these cows. On [the] spot, my stepfathers took them. As in [the] culture of Toposa, anything from your enemies belongs to elder people. I was only left with one cow.

    On his second raid, Eric secured 30 goats, of which his stepfathers allowed him to keep ten.

    Aware of the suffering that this raiding had caused and now with an established reputation as a “warrior”, Eric then stepped back from raiding and used the ten goats to breed more. This gave him the resources for marriage and to start a family – but he carried the legacy of his involvement in the killings during past raids, and the knowledge that he was now a target for retaliatory violence. He explained:

    So far, I have killed six enemies; hence am also included as a warrior in my community. I do not want them [the enemy] to know my name because they will kill me if they know me.

    For Eric and many other men like him in South Sudan, it is difficult to show emotions such as sadness or fear, as this could be interpreted as a sign of weakness. Our researcher and interviewer, Anna Adiyo Sebit, describes the expectations placed on men in her culture: “As a man, even when someone dies, you do not shed a tear, especially in front of women. Instead, you cry from your heart inside.”

    The trauma of war

    Ten years ago, while conducting fieldwork in Nepal for my PhD and book, I interviewed more than 60 former members of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to examine how their participation in the civil war – known as the People’s War – affected notions of masculinity within the armed group.

    While I never asked about trauma or psychological difficulties, it became clear these were present for many of the men – just never explicitly spoken about. Instead, they would talk about their sense of disillusionment or lack of ability to fulfil societal expectations of masculinity – all the while, carefully keeping their emotions in check.

    These emotions would only surface in more casual conversations over tea or food, following the formal interviews. In these moments, the men revealed a more vulnerable side – often expressing sadness, frustration, and a desire to share their more personal stories.

    It was a clear shift from the displays of hardened masculinity in their narratives of the battlefield. Some of these informal exchanges hinted at signs of PTSD – for example, in their descriptions of flashbacks, sleep difficulties and short temperedness. One young man who was extremely polite and courteous became very fidgety after the end of the interview. He told me: “In the night I can’t sleep, because I hear bomb blasts inside my head.”

    Another, clearly proud of his role in the People’s War, recounted his bravery on the battlefield. Yet, when he spoke of the six months of torture he had endured in police custody, his composure faltered and he struggled to hold back tears. He showed me a photo of his three-year-old child, saying: “This is why I will never return to battle.”

    What I encountered was men who appeared uneasy about expressing emotions as this runs contrary to masculine expectations, but were also frustrated at a lack of outlets to tell their story.

    During one interview with a former PLA member in the western district of Bardiya, I noticed a group of ex-PLA fighters gathered at the boundary of his home after they had heard an interview was taking place. As my interpreter and I were leaving, a thin man at the front of the crowd began shouting aggressively at us.

    Having initially assumed his anger was directed at my presence in the area, I realised it stemmed from his frustration at not being selected for an interview. “Why does everyone always want to interview you?” he shouted at the man I had just spoken to. The former fighter’s anger, fuelled by alcohol, appeared to reflect his frustration at lacking a platform to share his own story.

    From Nepal in 2016 to South Sudan in 2024, amid the violence and trauma of war and the daily expectations of masculinity associated with being a provider and protector, there appeared to be few outlets through which these men could talk freely about their emotions, tell their stories, and admit their mental health difficulties.

    Many of the men interviewed in South Sudan had been involved in violent clashes involving killings at some point in their lives. In interviews carried out in Kapoeta North, a county in eastern Equatoria, some men reported having constant flashbacks to the sounds of gunshots – when they tried to sleep at night, these sounds would “become real”, stopping them getting any proper rest:

    Sometimes you can wake up in the middle of the night and find yourself trembling as if these people are coming for you.

    One man explained how he would get up in the night to follow a “black shadow” like a ghost. When community members would run after him to stop him, he would become “hostile and behave like he wants to kill everyone” – because, he explained, he saw his friend being killed on the battlefield and the memory of this would not leave him, especially in the night.

    A woman described how, when young men are involved in “killing”, their “mind is not functioning well”. Contextualising this claim she explained: “There was this man who got traumatised due to the ongoing conflict of raiding. He fought many battles until the gunshot sound affected his brain and made him crazy.”

    She then described a man who could not accept his friend had died in a cattle camp raid and insisted on returning to the battlefield, even though the community told him not to. “After confirming [his friend’s death] he ran mad and became confused. We say that such a person had his heart broken by the incident he witnessed, and we say he is mad.”

    Men whose companions have been killed can become fixated on revenge, as Sebit explains, “It will torture their mind until they go and avenge the death of the person that was killed.” Some will encourage them to take revenge but others, like Lokwi, are trying to discourage revenge killings and working towards peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue.

    Societal expectations of masculinity

    The link between societal expectations of masculinity, trauma and violent behaviour among men is important in better understanding ongoing insecurities in rural South Sudan. A man is supposed to own cows in order to gain respect from their community. Without these, they can be rejected – leading to feelings of isolation, despair and a fear of ridicule.

    As noted by another elderly interviewee: “If a man does not go for raiding, he will be cursed by elders. [In contrast], if he comes back with cows, people will celebrate – and if he dies, people will say he died as a warrior.”

    It can be a vicious circle. If you do not get cows when you raid another community, this may lead to further feelings of shame – driving the young men to put themselves at further risk. In a state of stress and having grown up in a culture of conflict, they may regard themselves as having no choice but to risk death in the quest for cows. Those who have been orphaned or do not have other family members to support them can be particularly vulnerable to this.

    A young boy brandishes an immitation pistol made of mud in South Sudan’s capital, Juba.
    Richard Juilliart/Shutterstock

    Such concerns about masculinity emerge in many of the interviews with young men in South Sudan – and also in discussions with support workers there. Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is one of the few organisations in South Sudan who have run trauma awareness training for men. A local CRS programme manager, Luol, explained to me in an online meeting how men’s worries about marriage rights can spiral into acts of violence:

    What is actually happening in [young men’s] brains is they are thinking: ‘Okay, I am 18 or 17 years old now, in the next two years I have to have my partner at home, but I don’t have resources. [So] the best way to get resources is to raid or steal people’s properties.’ This is the thinking of war. This is the thinking of a person who has been exposed to conflict – that the best way to get resources is to raid from somebody.

    In another meeting, Luol described his experience of facilitating trauma awareness programmes with men. He explained that “many of the men have participated in cattle raiding and have seen horrific kinds of events such as, seeing somebody [being] killed, and [they] can be traumatised because [they] participated in that war [raid].”

    Luol described one young man who came and spoke to him after the first day of training:

    He wanted to testify that he’s now recovering from his trauma because he participated in the war and he saw children and women being killed and when he returned home, he saw [in] his own children, the children who were killed, and he cried, he felt ashamed for participating and playing a part in this. And he was trying to recover from that effect of trauma. And that’s very common. Most of the young men who participate in war come back traumatised.

    The importance of such outlets for men to come and talk together about their emotions was emphasised in our meeting. For cultural reasons, neither individual counselling sessions nor sessions including women would be acceptable to the men.As noted by another local CRS staff member :

    If women are in that group, the men are likely not to talk about [trauma] because of masculinity issues. They don’t want the women to hear men accepting weakness or vulnerability … But if the men are talking alone [about] their life they will say: ‘Yes, this is what happened to me, and this is how we can move forward.’

    While these sessions are not supposed to be a form of restorative justice or “amnesty” for crimes committed, Luol explained that opening up about feelings of guilt in the small group is helpful in addressing “displaced anger” that can manifest in continued violence in the community, clan or in the family.

    CRS Trauma Awareness and Social Cohesion programmes also encourage discussions of alternatives to violence or cattle raiding, presenting a longer-term life vision for those present. According to one attendee, his less traumatised brain allows for rational thinking such as: “If I start cultivating this year and I want to marry in two or three years’ time, I’ll be able to produce the crops, sell them in the market, and then buy cows if I need to buy cows.”

    The programme was piloted in South Sudan’s Greater Jonglei State in 2014 using CRS private funding. Three years later it secured funding from USAID after “demonstrating its value”. In 2020, with additional funding from the EU, the programme was expanded to areas of Eastern Equatoria. While the programme has now ended with the completion of its funding cycle, CRS continues to seek future funding to re-establish the initiative.

    Soldiers celebrate the anniversary of South Sudan’s independence day, which briefly brought peace.
    Richard Juilliart/Shutterstock

    ‘Everything gets destroyed’

    While recognising that most men do not engage in violence, the reality is men are overwhelmingly responsible for violence when it does occur. This is the case in South Sudan as in all countries. It is therefore vital to engage with men, not just as perpetrators of violence but as potential peacemakers.

    Unfortunately, gender stereotyping within the humanitarian and donor sector has resulted in a lack of trauma response targeted at men. Instead, men and boys tend to be framed as perpetual perpetrators of violence and discrimination – as “emasculated troublemakers” not worth engaging with, or at best by the “men can cope by themselves” narrative.

    Wider research by XCEPT has found that out of 12 humanitarian organisations interviewed in northern Syria, northern Iraq and South Sudan, only two had programmes specifically targeted at men. The situation appears little changed from the conclusion reached in the 2021 Promondo report, which stated:

    This de-prioritisation of boys and men in emergency response is rooted in donors’ and international organisations’ lack of political will to meaningfully acknowledge that vulnerability exists beyond women and girls … Chronic inattention to boys and men has resulted in programs, services and spaces not being sufficiently tailored to meet their needs.

    This not only has an impact on men and boys’ wellbeing. It also fails to take on board the reality that unaddressed trauma among men correlates with increases in community violence, revenge killings, cattle raiding and gender-based violence suffered by women and girls. As an international CRS staff member explained:

    Unless donors have a way of facing [the reality of trauma] and addressing it in all interventions, all the money we’re spending on health programs and infrastructure programs and education programs and whatever it is, it’s just money down the drain. Because eventually, everything gets destroyed in violence.


    For you: more from our Insights series:

    • Embracing uncertainty: what Kenyan herders can teach us about living in a volatile world

    • Sexual exploitation by UN peacekeepers in DRC: fatherless children speak for first time about the pain of being abandoned

    • How state agents target journalists while governments claim to protect them – stark warnings from Mexico and Honduras

    To hear about new Insights articles, join the hundreds of thousands of people who value The Conversation’s evidence-based news. Subscribe to our newsletter.

    Heidi Riley receives funding from the Cross-Border Conflict Evidence, Policy and Trends (XCEPT) research programme, funded by UK International Development from the UK government. (Views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official policies.) She also received funding from the Irish Research Council for the Nepal research mentioned. Sincere thanks to Anna Adiyo Sebit, expert researcher with Catholic Relief Services in South Sudan, for her fieldwork and other contributions to this article.

    – ref. ‘Killing is part of their life’: the men raised on violence who are both perpetrators and victims as South Sudan faces return to civil war – https://theconversation.com/killing-is-part-of-their-life-the-men-raised-on-violence-who-are-both-perpetrators-and-victims-as-south-sudan-faces-return-to-civil-war-256177

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European Oceans Pact and the emissions trading system covering buildings, road transport and additional sectors (ETS2). – E-002014/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002014/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez (Renew), Nicolás González Casares (S&D)

    The European Ocean Pact – expected to be adopted by the European Commission on 4 June 2025– will seek to bring coherence to all EU policies related to oceans. In addition to fostering the blue economy, it will prioritise maintaining healthy and resilient oceans and coastal regions.

    The scope of the emissions trading system was extended to cover maritime transport in January 2024, with a gradual implementation timeline until 2027. Given the process of decarbonising the fleet and taking into account the sector’s efforts in this transition and the very small proportion of emissions generated by its activity, we would like to ask:

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to include the implementation of ETS2 in the European Ocean Pact to cover other maritime activities, such as fisheries?
    • 2.If so, what are the estimated costs for the European fleet of extending this system and what measures does the Commission intend to take to support the sector with regard to the impact of this cost?

    Submitted: 20.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Fairness in the application of the new European animal welfare rules in the specific context of eastern Europe – E-002054/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002054/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR)

    In Romania and other central and eastern European countries, livestock breeding is not just an important economic activity, but also a part of rural identity and cultural heritage. The new European animal welfare initiatives – such as the elimination of cages or the limiting of transportation – can place excessive burdens on small and traditional farms that do not have the resources necessary for a rapid transition.

    There are concerns that these regulations are designed for large farms in western Europe and are being applied uniformly, without reflecting the Union’s economic diversity. This approach could have an adverse impact on farmers in the East and reinforce the perception of an unequal single market.

    In this context, we request the following clarifications from the European Commission:

    • 1.What concrete measures will it take to ensure that the animal welfare standards will be implemented in a proportionate manner that reflects the structural differences between the Member States, especially those in eastern Europe?
    • 2.What types of financial support or transition mechanisms does it intend to offer to small farmers to enable them to adapt without the risk of being forced to cease their activity?
    • 3.How will it guarantee that the application of these rules will not lead to distortions in single market competitiveness to the detriment of farmers in less developed regions of the Union?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Summit on Ukraine and Security in Europe – the Commission’s mandate – E-000729/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The discussions at the Summit in Paris on 17 February 2025 covered Europe’s defence and security, including the need to strengthen the European defence technological and industrial base. In addition, participants emphasised the need to step up the overall support to Ukraine, and to maintain economic pressure on Russia, including through sanctions.

    The President of the Commission is responsible for ensuring the external representation of the EU when matters fall outside the scope of the common foreign and security policy and relate to other EU policy fields[1].

    The President of the Commission is therefore responsible for ensuring the external representation of the EU with regards to various work strands of support to Ukraine, including, among others, financial assistance and humanitarian support. Furthermore, matters related to the EU’s defence industry also fall within the scope of competences of the Commission, which plays a crucial role in assisting Member States to boost their defence industries — a prerequisite for any militarily capable and well-equipped Europe.

    The invitation to participate underscores the Commission’s distinct and important role in these discussions.

    • [1] Article 17(1) of the Treaty on European Union , https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/teu_2012/oj/eng.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU innovation funding for an ageing Europe – E-001092/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The next multiannual financial framework is an opportunity to better focus EU spending on the EU’s shared priorities. Addressing demographic change is one of these shared priorities. In general, as per the Commission’s political guidelines[1], the EU will also step up its work on preventive health, in particular for mental health and cardiovascular diseases, as well as on treatments for degenerative illnesses.

    As recalled in the recent Commission’s communication on ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[2], financing the social transition will require maximising public investment and leveraging private capital.

    There is scope for increasing additionality to ensure that the EU budget focuses on investments which would not have materialised otherwise.

    Reinforcing the link between overall policy coordination and the EU budget will also be key to ensure better alignment with EU priorities and inform decisions on investments and reforms at EU and national level, including in the social care sector.

    In line with the ‘better regulation’ principles[3], the Commission intends to use evidence-based policymaking supported by thorough impact assessments and stakeholder consultations to ensure future initiatives address actual needs.

    In addition, a comprehensive performance framework will support the monitoring and reporting of the progress toward the defined objectives, using appropriate performance indicators.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0046.
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/d0bbd77f-bee5-4ee5-b5c4-6110c7605476_en?filename=swd2021_305_en.pdf.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Equal access to Erasmus+ and DiscoverEU programmes – E-002083/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002083/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kosma Złotowski (ECR)

    Programmes such as Erasmus+ and DiscoverEU aim to support learning mobility, equal opportunities and the elimination of economic, geographical and social barriers to access to education and personal development.

    However, there are increasing reports from participants, youth organisations and educational institutions that these programmes, although extremely valuable, do not always reach all social groups equally and do not fully achieve their objective of providing equal opportunities. The problems reported include poor accessibility for young people from small towns and rural areas, complicated application procedures, insufficient language and organisational support, and inadequate funding in light of rising living and travel costs.

    • 1.What specific measures is the Commission taking to ensure equal access to the Erasmus+ and DiscoverEU programmes for young people from rural areas?
    • 2.Does the Commission have statistical data on participants in the Erasmus+ and DiscoverEU programmes, including their place of residence (urban/rural), and does this data influence the design and evaluation of EU youth mobility policy for educational purposes?
    • 3.In view of the rising costs of travel, accommodation and living in the EU, is the Commission considering adjusting the level of financial support in mobility programmes to reflect the real economic conditions in different Member States and the individual needs of participants, and if so, how and when will the changes be implemented?

    Submitted: 23.5.2025

    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Warning on oak processionary moth issued ahead of hatching season

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Warning on oak processionary moth issued ahead of hatching season

    Public and construction trade vigilance needed as oak processionary moth (OPM) growth higher at start of greatest risk period

    Image credit: Henry Kuppen

    The public are being urged today (Wednesday 28 May) to be vigilant for any sightings of oak processionary moth caterpillars, a tree pest which can strip oak trees of their foliage and leave them susceptible to disease.

    The caterpillars – predominantly found in South East England – descend down oak trees in head-to-tail processionary form, occasionally taking the form of an arrow shape, earning them their name. They feed on the leaves as they migrate causing the leaves to sometimes drop off which negatively impacts their growth. This can weaken the tree and leave it more vulnerable to other stresses, such as drought and further diseases. 

    The warning has been issued today by the Forestry Commission who are urging the public to report any sightings via the TreeAlert portal or by email to opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk.

    Oak processionary moth was first identified in London in 2006 after being accidentally transported over from Europe in trees for planting. It has since spread to surrounding counties in the South East, and last July, a small outbreak of the caterpillars was found at a site designated free from the pest.

    OPM caterpillars and their nests, which are made of distinctive white silken webbing, contain hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation and should not be touched under any circumstances. The nests can be found in the trunk or branches of oak trees, and fade to a light brown over time. The public are urged never to try and dispose of the nests themselves. 

    Forestry Commission Oak Processionary Moth Programme Manager Dr Edward Straw said: 

    “The warm weather in spring has led to oak processionary moth growing quicker than in previous years. We’re already receiving reports of homeowners being affected by the caterpillars, coming out in painful rashes, and it is important those living and working in areas affected by oak processionary moth remain vigilant about the health risks they pose.

    “The Forestry Commission has a whole host of information online that can be used to identify the moth, simply visit managing oak processionary moth in England. If you spot the pest, report the sighting via our TreeAlert portal . Alternatively, you can email opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk.”

    The Forestry Commission continues to undertake a rapid management response and extensive surveillance work is in place to monitor the area and continue to direct appropriate control measures to prevent the potential spread of OPM.

    Professor Nicola Spence, UK Chief Plant Health Officer, said: 

    “Oak trees are an iconic and much-loved part of our British landscape. By reporting any sightings of the oak processionary moth to the Forestry Commission, we can all minimise the pest’s spread as well as reduce their impact on tree health. 

    “I would advise that members of the public living in London, the surrounding areas and Derbyshire, avoid any contact with the caterpillar and its nests, as this can cause irritation.”

    By identifying threats such as pests and diseases, we protect the benefits plants provide to the public, to wildlife, the environment, and our economy. More information can be found on the Plant Health Action.org website. 

    How to identify Oak processionary moth caterpillars 

    • Nests are typically dome or teardrop-shaped, averaging the size of a tennis ball. They are white when fresh, but soon become discoloured and brown. The caterpillars have black heads and bodies covered in long white hairs which contain proteins which can cause itchy rashes, eye, and throat irritations. They can also occasionally cause breathing difficulties in people and pets, so should not be touched under any circumstances. 
    • A public information leaflet covering how to identify OPM and methods to control is available,
    • There is also a document outlining species commonly confused with OPM which can be found here.
    • For more information, visit ‘Managing Oak Processionary Moth in England’. 

    Contact with Oak Processionary Moth

    • Following possible OPM contact, visit your pharmacist for relief from milder skin or eye irritations. Consult a GP or call NHS111 for more serious reactions. Contact a vet if animals are seriously affected. 
    • An interactive map showing the locations of recent confirmed reports of OPM and the national management zones is available.  
    • A toolkit for local authorities and larger landowners to help plan for and manage OPM has been developed by the Tree Council, in partnership with Forest Research. 
    • A guide for the policy changes to OPM management
    • The Tree Health Pilot scheme offers a local authority grant for oak with OPM. It supports local authorities in the OPM ’established area’ to organise surveying of oak trees for OPM and create an OPM management plan and communications strategy to understand the risks and appropriate management of the affected area. Funding is also available for communications materials such as signage, and biosecurity items including boot cleaning equipment and red tape/posts for cordoning off areas. For more information and details of how to apply see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tree-health-pilot-scheme-2024/grants-for-oak-with-oak-processionary-moth-opm

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    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointment to Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Expert Group announced

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointment to Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Expert Group announced 
         The Head of the CEPU, Dr Stephen Wong, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Expert Group members for putting forth their views and suggestions proactively, as well as for their generous sharing of expertise, insights and research findings in their respective fields over the past year. These contributions have provided important references for the Policy Address.
     
         Dr Wong said, “In addition to plenary meetings, the interaction between the CEPU and Expert Group members took various forms in the past year, including forums, seminars, sharing sessions, group discussions, individual meetings, visits and written exchanges, etc. The CEPU also invites universities and think tanks from the community that have received funding support under the Public Policy Research Funding Scheme and the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme to organise opening and concluding seminars. Members of the Expert Group are invited to provide views from their industry perspectives to enhance the applicability of the research studies. They also serve as external examiners for the two funding schemes, assisting in vetting relevant research proposals and advising on funding applications.”
     
         Dr Wong continued, “I look forward to maintaining close liaison and co-operation with Expert Group members in the coming year, and to working together to assist the HKSAR Government on the 2024 Policy Address goal of ‘Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together’.”
     
         As an advisory body, the CEPU Expert Group was established in May 2023 and consists of members of different backgrounds including business, finance, professional, think-tanks and academia to provide expert views and new ideas to the CEPU on various topics. To facilitate the work of the Expert Group and its conduct of more focused discussions, members of the Expert Group are assigned into three broad streams, namely the Economic Advancement Expert Group, the Social Development Expert Group and the Research Strategy Expert Group. For details of the events of the Expert Group, please refer to the website of the CEPU:
    (www.cepu.gov.hk/en/whats_new/index.html 
         The full membership of the Expert Group is as follows (listed in alphabetical order of surnames):

    Economic Advancement Expert GroupMrs Bonnie Chan Woo
    Dr Haywood Cheung
    Mr Hong Xiaoyuan
    Mr Peter Kung
    Mr Adam Kwok
    Mr Peter Lai
    Mr David Lau
    Dr Martin Lee
    Ms Nisa Leung
    Mr Laurence Li, SC
    Mr Li Xiguang
    Mr Dowson Tong
    Mr Patrick Tsang
    Dr Levin Wang
    Mr Allen Yeung
    Mr Samuel Yung
    Mr Jonathan Zhu
     
    Social Development Expert GroupDr Eugene Chan
    Mr Kevin Chan
    Mr Nicholas Chan
    Mr Chen Shaobo
    Mr Albert Lee
    Mr Edward Liu
    Ms Anthea Lo
    Ms Lo Po-man
    Mr Lo Wing-hung
    Dr Lewis Luk
    Dr Ma Jun
    Dr Chloe Suen
    Mr Tai Hay-lap
    Dr Stephen Tai
    Mr Tang Fei
    Mr Xu LinProfessor Thomas Chan
    Mr Chang Ka-mun
    Professor Christopher Chao
    Dr Francis Cheung
    Dr Chow Man-kong
    Dr Chow Pak-chin
    Dr Guo Wanda
    Professor Alfred Ho
    Dr Henry Ho
    Professor Huang Ping
    Professor Lau Pui-king
    Professor Lau Siu-kai
    Professor Dennis Lo
    Professor Francis Lui
    Professor Terry Lum
    Professor Mao Zhenhua
    Professor Charles Ng
    Professor Naubahar Sharif
    Dr Wang Fuqiang
    Professor Richard Wong
    Professor Wong Yuk-shan
    Professor Xiao Geng
    Professor Zheng Yongnian
    Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Borrowing on the part of foreign domestic helpers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ20: Borrowing on the part of foreign domestic helpers 
    Question:
     
         The Government has indicated that the borrowing problems of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) not only affect their own financial well-being, but also bring much trouble to their employers. It has been reported that in recent years, there have been instances where employers or former employers of FDHs are harassed by money lenders or financial intermediaries as FDHs default on loans. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the annual number of cases received by the Companies Registry from FDH employers, in 2024 and this year to date, in which harassment was allegedly inflicted on them by licensed money lenders during debt recovery from their FDHs;
     
    (2) given that in reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on November 27 last year, the Government indicated that it was formulating specific measures for public consultation along such directions as reviewing the existing regulations on money lenders and enhancing publicity and education, and it planned to commence such consultation in the first half of this year, of the progress of the public consultation on such new measures and the actual implementation timetable;
     
    (3) as the revised Code of Practice for Employment Agencies (CoP) promulgated by the Labour Department (LD) in May last year requires employment agencies to, when making an application for a licence and renewal of a licence, inform the LD of whether they are associated with any financial institution, of the number of employment agencies that have made such declarations to LD since the revision of CoP;
     
    (4) given that in reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on January 8 this year, the Government indicated that only about 90 licensed money lenders had joined or were in the process of joining “Credit Data Smart” (CDS), a Credit Reference Platform, how the authorities plan to encourage the remaining licensed money lenders to join CDS so that the affordability of borrowers (including FDHs) for unsecured personal loans can be more accurately assessed by the industry; and
     
    (5) as it is learnt that some FDHs have successfully applied for loans using their former employers’ addresses despite the completion of their agreements, whether the authorities have plans to address this issue, such as requiring financial institutions to verify with the authorities whether the FDH has an employment relationship with the employer declared by him or her before approving the loan?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Government is very concerned about the borrowing issue of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) and will strictly regulate licensed money lenders (money lenders) and step up publicity and education etc, to better protect the interests of FDHs and their employers. In consultation with the Labour and Welfare Bureau, Companies Registry (CR) and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), the reply to various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) In 2024 and 2025 (as at April), the CR received 11 and four complaints respectively on the alleged harassment of employers of FDHs by licensed money lenders due to debt collection in relation to the FDHs. The CR referred the cases concerned to the Police for handling.
     
    (2) The Government has been closely monitoring the market situation in the money lending sector to continuously review and enhance the prevailing regulatory measures. In 2021, we enhanced the licensing conditions of money lenders, including requiring money lenders, before entering into a loan agreement for an unsecured personal loan, to undertake an assessment of the borrower’s repayment ability and have due regard to the assessment outcome, and requiring money lenders to immediately cease to use a referee’s information after they are informed or aware that the written consent was in fact not signed by the referee. In 2022, we lowered the statutory interest rate cap and the threshold of extortionate rate from 60 per cent to 48 per cent and from 48 per cent to 36 per cent respectively.
     
         To step up efforts in addressing the issue of excessive borrowing, we will commence a public consultation this June on enhancing regulation of unsecured personal loans and strengthen protection for loan referees etc, and will consult the Legislative Council Panel on Financial Affairs in July. After the consultation period, we will collate and summarise the views to be received to finalise relevant measures and formulate relevant legislative proposals.
     
    (3) To enhance the protection for job seekers and employers, the Labour Department (LD) promulgated the revised Code of Practice (CoP) for Employment Agencies on May 9, 2024. The revised CoP requires employment agencies (EAs) to declare, when applying for a licence or licence renewal, whether they operate any financial institution on the same premises as EAs, and whether the EA licensee or the person intending to be the licensee is at the same time the responsible person of any financial institution.
     
         As at April 2025, the LD received and processed declarations from 3 362 EAs during applications for a licence or licence renewal in accordance with the aforementioned requirement. Among the 3 362 EAs, 41 EAs declared affiliations with financial institutions.
     
    (4) To encourage more money lenders to join the Credit Data Smart (CDS), the Government and the HKMA have been working closely with the Hong Kong Association of Banks, the Hong Kong Association of Restricted Licence Banks and Deposit-taking Companies, and the Hong Kong S.A.R. Licensed Money Lenders Association Limited to research into and provide different solutions, as well as to organise briefing sessions on the CDS and proactively invite money lenders that have not joined the CDS to meetings.
     
         Furthermore, under the strong support and promotion of the HKMA, the platform operator (i.e. Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited) has developed an interface, namely the “Common Module”, which provides an effective, lower-cost, and more convenient way for money lenders to connect to the CDS, saving the need to establish their own application programming interfaces (API).
     
         The Government and the HKMA will continue to co-operate with the industry to develop enhancement measures to assist more money lenders in joining the CDS, so as to build a more comprehensive database.
     
    (5) To address situation of employers or former employers being harassed due to borrowing of their FDHs, the licensing conditions of the current money lenders licence have clearly set out the relevant regulatory requirements. According to licensing condition 10 of the money lenders licence, a money lender and his debt collector shall only recover debts from the person who is in law indebted to him. A money lender and his debt collector shall not, while trying to locate the whereabouts of debtors, harass anyone, adopt unlawful or improper debt collection practices. Therefore, if a FDH employer or former employer discovers that his/her residential address is used improperly and feels harassed, he/she may lodge a complaint with the money lender concerned and request immediate cessation of his improper debt collection behaviours.
     
         Money lenders should strictly comply with the licensing conditions in carrying on their business. Any breach of the licensing conditions during the course of business is an offence under the Money Lenders Ordinance. Upon conviction, offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for two years. If the Registrar of Money Lenders (Registrar) and the Police consider that a money lender has ceased to be a fit and proper person to carry on business as such, they may apply to the Licensing Court for revocation of his licence or refusal of his licence renewal application. Therefore, if there is any complaint against a money lender for improperly harassing a FDH employer or former employer, the complaint may serve as a ground for the Registrar or the Police to apply to the Licensing Court for revocation of his licence, or make an objection against his licence renewal application.
     
         In addition, we will step up promotional and educational efforts targeting the FDH community, reminding FDHs that they could not provide their employers’ or former employers’ addresses as the borrower’s contact address without seeking their prior consent. We will also strengthen co-operation with the LD and non-governmental organisations to ensure that the relevant messages are effectively conveyed.
    Issued at HKT 16:21

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    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Protection for food delivery workers of digital platforms

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ1: Protection for food delivery workers of digital platforms 
    Question:
     
         There are views that food delivery workers on Hong Kong’s digital platforms (platforms) are not covered by various forms of labour protection. This situation lags behind that in both the Mainland and the West. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) as the Government indicated in November last year that it would propose a direction to strengthen the protection of platform workers, which “may include proposals that can only be implemented by legislation”, of the scope of the protection and legislative details being considered by the authorities, and when the legislative proposals are expected to be introduced into this Council;
     
    (2) given that the Supreme People’s Court issued guiding cases last year, pointing out that the key to determining whether there is a labour relationship between enterprises and workers is to establish whether there are “facts surrounding the employment”, which constitute dominant labour management, whether the authorities have drawn reference from such cases to formulate the relevant safeguarding direction; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) as it has been reported that some Mainland enterprises have paid the “five insurances and one housing fund” for platform delivery workers so that they are protected by law in the event of old age, illness, work-‍related injury, unemployment, maternity and so on, whether the authorities have encouraged Hong Kong platform enterprises to follow suit, such as making Mandatory Provident Fund contributions for platform delivery workers?
     
    Reply:

    President,
     
         The Government is concerned about the protection for digital platform workers (platform workers) and has established a Liaison Group comprising representatives from the Government, platform companies, and labour organisations to explore suitable proposals to enhance the protection for platform workers. In response to the Member’s question, the reply is provided below:
     
    (1) The Labour Department (LD) completed statistical surveys and conducted consultations last year, including the Thematic Household Survey, an opinion survey for platform workers, as well as focus group meetings to collect data on the working conditions of platform workers and their views on protection matters. The results of the above surveys revealed that platform workers were most concerned about work injury compensation. In addition, the LD organised a retreat in November last year to facilitate representatives from the Government, platform companies, labour sector, academics and the insurance industry to express and exchange views on how to protect platform workers, including issues of work injury compensation.
     
         Having regard to the data and views collected from the above surveys and through various channels, the Government will introduce a proposal for further enhancing the rights and benefits of platform workers within this year, and will consider reinforcing the protection for platform workers through legislative means. In collaboration with platform companies and other stakeholders through the Liaison Group, the Government will continue to take forward the work on protection for platform workers. 
         In Hong Kong, the court has also established a series of factors to distinguish whether an individual is classified as a self-employed person, an independent contractor or an employee. Relevant factors include whether the purported employer exercises control over the purported self-employed person’s work; and whether the purported self-employed individual can hire helpers to assist with the work, whether he provides his own equipment or tools, and whether he bears the financial risk over his/her business. If in essence there exists an employer-employee relationship, even if an employer claims that an employee is a self-employed person or a contractor, the employer must fulfill the responsibilities under labour legislation in respect of that employee, including bearing the criminal liability for violating provisions of employment rights.
     
         We will continue to monitor the policies and measures in the Mainland and other places on the protection for platform workers, and contemplate how to formulate appropriate policies to strengthen the protection for platform workers with regard to the local circumstances. 
         In accordance with the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance, employees and self-employed persons aged 18 to 64 (save for exempt persons) are required to join the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) Scheme. If a platform worker is an employee as defined in the Employment Ordinance, the platform company as the employer is obliged to enrol these employees in an MPF scheme and arrange employer and employee mandatory contributions. If a platform worker is a self-employed person, he is required to arrange his own enrolment in an MPF scheme and make mandatory contributions.
     
         The Government will continue to encourage platform companies to adopt suitable measures to improve the welfare of platform workers through the Liaison Group.
    Issued at HKT 11:20

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    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Public benefits received by residents of public housing estates

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Ngan Man-yu and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (May 28):

    Question: 
         The WFSFAA reviews and streamlines the application and vetting procedures of the WFA Scheme and the School Textbook Assistance Scheme (STAS) from time to time. With respect to the WFA Scheme, the WFSFAA provides households which got approved WFA previously with application forms prefilled with basic household information, and requires less documentary proof in their subsequent applications. The WFSFAA provides reference materials for applicants such as guidance notes, checklist of documents required for the application and sample application forms. The WFSFAA sets up mobile information booths at various locations (including PHEs), and provides service counters (Note 2) and a 24-hour telephone enquiry hotline to answer public enquiries and offer assistance in filling out application forms.
     
         In addition, the WFSFAA adopts a household-based application form to facilitate the submission of a consolidated application by families concerned for all eligible children attending primary or secondary schools or kindergartens / child care centres for applicable student financial assistance (including the STAS). Apart from providing enquiry hotlines and counter services, the WFSFAA also maintains close contact with schools with a view to offering assistance to applicants in need. 
         Since the introduction of the WFA Scheme in April 2018, the Government has reviewed the WFA Scheme at various times and implemented a number of enhancement measures, including relaxing the eligibility criteria by extending the Scheme to singleton households and allowing household members to aggregate their working hours to apply for WFA. In addition, the Government has increased the rates of allowance under the WFA Scheme thrice to further alleviate the burden of grassroots working families (including those living in PHEs). 
         The Government has launched the Strive and Rise Programme since 2022 which focuses on lifting secondary school students from underprivileged families (including those in PHEs) out of intergenerational poverty. Through tripartite collaboration of the Government, the business sector and the community, the Scheme broadens student participants’ horizons, reinforce their self-confidence, develop a positive life attitude, set goals for their future and strive for upward mobility. 
    Note 2: The service counters are located at the HA customer service centre in Lok Fu and the WFSFAA office in Kwun Tong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission cuts red tape and maximises impact of foreign aid investment

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 28 May 2025 The European Commission is increasing the efficiency and firepower of its External Action Guarantee (EAG), a key financial tool under the Global Gateway strategy that offers more affordable loans to unlock investments in partner countries around the world. In an increasingly complex geopolitical context, the EU is reaffirming its role as a global actor by strengthening its strategic and responsive capabilities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: France: EIB supports Bordeaux Métropole Énergies’ investment plan for decarbonisation in the Gironde department

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • A €90 million loan from the European Investment Bank will enable the company majority-owned by Bordeaux Métropole to strengthen its business as part of its 2024-2028 strategic plan.
    • The funding will cover multiple aspects of the plan, ranging from the development of renewable energy in the Gironde to the energy renovation of individual properties and jointly-owned buildings.
    • For the EIB, this financing is also part of the European Union’s plan for the continent’s energy and green transition known as Repower EU.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Bordeaux Métropole Énergies (BME) have signed a €90 million loan agreement in support of a strategic plan for this semi-public company which supports the energy transition of local authorities, businesses and individuals in the Gironde department.

    This funding aims at supporting BME in four areas of activity:

    • development of photovoltaic solutions in urban and rural areas for local authorities or businesses;
    • creation and extension of district heating and cooling networks for infrastructure sourced by renewable energy;
    • development of biogas production projects via anaerobic digestion and financing of energy efficiency renovation work on individual properties and jointly-owned buildings.

    “We are pleased to support Bordeaux Métropole Énergies in its energy transformation plan, which will have a positive impact across the Gironde department,” said EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle.

    “Promoting renewable energy, financing innovative solutions and reducing the energy bill of local authorities, businesses and individuals are the goals of the EIB in terms of climate action and the energy transition, so that EU financing can benefit everyone living in local communities.”

    “The EIB’s support marks an important step for BME and its enterprises in their ability to play a key strategic and operational role in building a carbon-neutral territory by 2050,” said Claudine Bichet, Chair of BME’s Board of Directors.

    “It enables us to step up our investment in energy and low-carbon solutions along with local authorities and companies in the Gironde department,” said BME Managing Director Audrey Dugal.

    For BME, this funding will make it possible to implement the commitments set out in its roadmap published in 2024. It boosts the group’s ability to invest in the region to develop solar photovoltaic projects on roofs, car parks and in ground-based power plants, generate renewable heating and cooling networks, produce biogas and increase the energy-efficient renovation of buildings.

    For the EIB, this financing is part of a long tradition of supporting local authorities in France. It also forms part of the Bank’s climate action activity, which is one of the EIB’s strategic priorities, as well as supporting the REPowerEU programme, launched by the European Commission in 2022, aimed at reducing Europe’s dependence on fossil fuels and accelerating the green energy transition. By helping people to renovate their homes, this funding ultimately aims to help make the housing sector more low-carbon in France and across the European Union.

    Background information

    About the EIB

    The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives in climate action, environment, digitalisation, technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.

    In 2024 the EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in Europe and across the world. In France, the EIB Group signed more than 100 operations in 2024 for a total amount of €12.6 billion. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    About the Bordeaux Métropole Energies Group

    A major player in local energy transition, Bordeaux Métropole Energies (BME) is a group composed of four subsidiaries (Gaz de Bordeaux, Mixener, Néomix, Regaz-Bordeaux) and two brands (Facirénov and Via33), all committed to decarbonisation. They support local authorities, businesses and individuals in their energy revolution and decarbonisation through energy renovation activities and the construction of a local and diversified energy mix (biogas, solar, heating and cooling, and renewables). BME has been a local semi-public company since 2017 and its shareholding structure comprises public partners such as Bordeaux Métropole (67.9%), private players like Engie (20%), Banque des Territoires (12%) and 13 municipalities of the Bordeaux region (0.1%).

    Bordeaux Metropole Eau Potable
    EIB supports Bordeaux Métropole Énergies’ investment plan for decarbonisation in the Gironde department
    ©EIB
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    Bordeaux Metropole Eau Potable
    EIB supports Bordeaux Métropole Énergies’ investment plan for decarbonisation in the Gironde department
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anti-tax evasion bill passed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today welcomed the Legislative Council’s passage of a bill which seeks to tackle tax evasion risks arising from the digitalisation of the economy.

    The Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Minimum Tax for Multinational Enterprise Groups) Bill 2024, formulated in accordance with the Base Erosion & Profit Shifting 2.0 (BEPS 2.0) package promulgated by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development, introduces the global minimum tax (GMT) and the Hong Kong minimum top-up tax (HKMTT) starting January 1, 2025.

    It is estimated that the new regimes will bring in an additional revenue of about $15 billion per year from 2027-28 to the Hong Kong SAR Government.

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said the implementation of the GMT and the HKMTT highlights Hong Kong’s staunch support to international co-operation in tackling cross-border tax evasion, and safeguards Hong Kong’s taxing rights.

    “With the 15% GMT for in-scope multinational enterprise (MNE) groups in place, countries and regions can no longer compete for capital and investment by simply lowering their corporate income tax rates.

    “With a fairer global taxation environment, our unique advantages such as ‘one country, two systems’, excellent connectivity, first-class infrastructure, mature financial markets, quality talent pools, East-meets-West vibes etc will become even more accentuated to showcase Hong Kong as a premier destination for doing business.”

    Under BEPS 2.0, MNE groups with an annual consolidated revenue of 750 million euros or above in at least two of the four fiscal years immediately preceding the current fiscal year will need to pay a GMT of at least 15% on profits derived from every jurisdiction in which they operate.

    By imposing the HKMTT, the Hong Kong SAR Government will have the first priority in collecting top-up tax from entities of an MNE group with an effective tax rate (ETR) in Hong Kong below 15%, in order to raise the ETR to 15%. Otherwise, the top-up tax may be collected by other BEPS 2.0-implementing jurisdictions in which the group also operates. Moreover, Hong Kong’s taxing rights would then be ceded to other jurisdictions.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government added that the GMT and HKMTT regimes have incorporated a number of features to facilitate compliance by in-scope MNE groups.

    The Inland Revenue Department has set up a dedicated team to provide technical support and answer enquiries about BEPS 2.0. The department will also publish online guidance addressing common concerns.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ ETFs Announces Distributions on CVNY, CONY, YMAG, YMAX, ULTY, and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ today announced distributions for the YieldMax™ Weekly Payers and Group C ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Distribution Frequency Distribution per Share Distribution Rate2,4 30-Day
    SEC Yield3
    ROC5 Ex-Date & Record Date Payment Date
    CHPY YieldMax™ Semiconductor Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.3860 – – 96.94% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    GPTY YieldMax™ AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.2895 33.82% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    LFGY YieldMax™ Crypto Industry & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.4906 62.59% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    QDTY YieldMax™ Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3115 38.15% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    RDTY YieldMax™ R2000 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3538 40.76% 0.00% 97.17% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    SDTY YieldMax™ S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.2578 30.71% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    ULTY YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Weekly $0.0954 79.40% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.2929 97.28% 70.00% 96.58% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.2149 81.04% 95.10% 81.23% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    ABNY YieldMax™ ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.3871 41.70% 3.22% 93.60% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    AMDY YieldMax™ AMD Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.4233 70.38% 3.31% 96.48% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    CONY YieldMax™ COIN Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.7351 106.24% 3.39% 80.80% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    CVNY YieldMax™ CVNA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $4.5659 125.74% 2.37% 99.33% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    FIAT YieldMax™ Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.2667 65.81% 1.14% 96.24% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    HOOY YieldMax™ HOOD Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $3.3036 – – 99.33% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    MSFO YieldMax™ MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.5498 40.29% 3.26% 92.68% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    NFLY YieldMax™ NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.6832 46.84% 2.79% 94.49% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    PYPY YieldMax™ PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks
    $0.5507 53.61% 3.54% 95.28% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    Weekly Payers & Group D ETFs scheduled for next week: CHPY GPTY LFGY QDTY RDTY SDTY ULTY YMAG YMAX AIYY AMZY APLY DISO MSTY SMCY WNTR XYZY YQQQ
     

    Standardized Performance and Fund details can be obtained by clicking the ETF Ticker in the table above or by visiting us at www.yieldmaxetfs.com

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH, YQQQ and WNTR are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs.”

    Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    1All YieldMax™ ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. YMAG has a management fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.83% for a gross expense ratio of 1.12%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.40%, and a net expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.

    2 The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on May 27, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent`t its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

    3 The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended April 31, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.

    4 Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.
    5ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage indicates how much the distribution reflects an investor’s initial investment. The figures shown for each Fund in the table above are estimates and may later be determined to be taxable net investment income, short-term gains, long-term gains (to the extent permitted by law), or return of capital. Actual amounts and sources for tax reporting will depend upon the Fund’s investment activities during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Your broker will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year to tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    Russell 2000 Index Risks. The Index, which consists of small-cap U.S. companies, is particularly susceptible to economic changes, as these firms often have less financial resilience than larger companies. Market volatility can disproportionately affect these smaller businesses, leading to significant price swings. Additionally, these companies are often more exposed to specific industry risks and have less diverse revenue streams. They can also be more vulnerable to changes in domestic regulatory or policy environments.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA, HOOD), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory, and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA, MSTR), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole. Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to CHPY)

    Semiconductor Industry Risk. Semiconductor companies may face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, and such competition may have an adverse effect on their profit margins. Semiconductor companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. Semiconductor companies’ supply chain and operations are dependent on the availability of materials that meet exacting standards and the use of third parties to provide components and services.

    The products of semiconductor companies may face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for the services of qualified personnel. Capital equipment expenditures could be substantial, and equipment generally suffers from rapid obsolescence. Companies in the semiconductor industry are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights. The loss or impairment of these rights would adversely affect the profitability of these companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, or YieldMax™ ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Police to add over 1.2k recruits

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Police Force has a target of recruiting 130 probationary inspectors and 1,140 police constables for the 2025-26 financial year.

    Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung told legislators today that as at March 31 this year, the numbers of vacancies in the force for the grades of rank and file, inspectorate officers and gazetted officers, ie Superintendents and above, were 5,500, 236 and 29 respectively.

    The overall number of vacancies was 5,765, representing a vacancy rate of about 17.4%, which is similar to figures over the past three years.

    To enhance the effectiveness of recruitment efforts, the force has adopted a multi-pronged approach. Besides conducting recruitment exercises throughout the year, it organises various recruitment activities on a regular basis.

    Additionally, the force has expanded its recruitment network by conducting recruitment exercises at universities worldwide.

    Mr Tang said the rise in the number of people applying to join the Police Force in recent years shows that its recruitment strategies are effective.

    He added that the force will align with the Government’s requirement to reduce the civil service establishment by 2% each year in 2026-27 and 2027-28, while continuing to review and assess the effectiveness of using different resources.

    By re-establishing work priorities, appropriately redeploying staff and using technologies to enhance operational effectiveness, he stressed, the force will ensure that the adjustment in numbers does not affect the efficiency and provision of its services, and that it will continue to provide the public with high-quality and efficient policing.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Introduces Binance Alpha Earn Zone to Maximize Liquidity Rewards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has launched the Binance Alpha Earn Zone, giving users the ability to provide liquidity to selected token pairs and earn a share of trading fees. This launch responds to growing interest in passive income opportunities through decentralized platforms, offering users a simplified path to participate directly from the wallet.

    In decentralized finance, users who contribute token pairs to a trading pool, known as liquidity providers, help facilitate on-chain token swaps and, in return, receive a portion of the transaction fees generated. Through this new zone, Bitget Wallet users can access curated high-yield pools such as USDT-ZKJ, WBNB-SOON, and WBNB-B2 via PancakeSwap. Some pools have recently offered returns of up to 2,000% APR, depending on market conditions and demand for trading activity.

    The integration is designed for ease of use. Step-by-step tutorials are provided in-app to help users understand how to add liquidity, set price ranges, and track their earnings. The goal is to lower the entry barrier for those interested in earning passive rewards without navigating complex DeFi platforms. Bitget Wallet notes that while returns can be high, liquidity provision carries risks, including potential losses if token prices shift significantly.

    “By launching the Binance Alpha Earn Zone, we’re making advanced earning strategies more accessible,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “We believe this is a key step toward empowering more people to engage with on-chain finance in a seamless way.”

    Find out more on Bitget Wallet’s official channel.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b5649cb8-874b-47a0-bdb4-89cbc5cc41cf

    The MIL Network –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Hyperscale Data Subsidiary Ault Capital Group to Purchase Up to $10 Million of XRP for Expansion of its Financial Services Business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperscale Data, Inc. (NYSE American: GPUS), a diversified holding company (“Hyperscale Data” or the “Company”), today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Ault Capital Group, Inc. (“ACG”) intends to purchase up to $10 million in XRP, the digital asset developed by Ripple Labs and native to the XRP Ledger, by the end of 2025. The XRP, when purchased, will be deemed a crypto asset and held on the Company’s balance sheet at fair value with changes recognized in operating expenses on the consolidated statements of operations. This strategic move is designed to support the Company’s broader expansion into financial services through ACG.

    “ACG plans to expand its financial services division and broaden the services it offers beyond lending, including cryptocurrency-based products on a decentralized exchange and tokenization of real-world assets. We’ve been successful in the lending business for the past four years, and now we are looking to expand. We expect XRP to be an important part of ACG’s future in the financial services industry,” said Milton “Todd” Ault III, Executive Chairman of Hyperscale Data.

    XRP is purpose-built for enterprise-grade financial use cases, offering fast, secure and low-cost transaction fees using blockchain technology — features that position it as an attractive asset for powering innovative financial services. ACG plans to leverage XRP and the XRP Ledger to support cross-border settlement, real-time payment systems, and decentralized financial applications, all designed to meet the needs of modern financial markets. The Company believes that acquiring XRP is a strategic enhancement of liquidity and provides infrastructure support for a range of blockchain-enabled financial products. It represents an important step towards integrating modern digital asset solutions into ACG’s next-generation financial services model.

    Hyperscale Data notes that acquisitions of XRP are subject to various risks and uncertainties, one or more which could result in the planned acquisitions being curtailed, delayed or terminated, including, but not limited to: the volatility in XRP market price; the inability of the Company to have sufficient capital to purchase the intended amount of XRP; and regulatory challenges, consents or approvals, if necessary. The Company will continue to monitor market conditions and may increase or decrease its holdings of XRP as it deems appropriate.

    For more information on Hyperscale Data and its subsidiaries, Hyperscale Data recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read Hyperscale Data’s public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at hyperscaledata.com or available at www.sec.gov.

    About Hyperscale Data, Inc.

    Through its wholly owned subsidiary Sentinum, Inc., Hyperscale Data owns and operates a data center at which it mines digital assets and offers colocation and hosting services for the emerging artificial intelligence (“AI”) ecosystems and other industries. Hyperscale Data’s other wholly owned subsidiary, ACG, is a diversified holding company pursuing growth by acquiring undervalued businesses and disruptive technologies with a global impact.

    Hyperscale Data expects to divest itself of ACG on or about December 31, 2025 (the “Divestiture”). Upon the occurrence of the Divestiture, the Company would solely be an owner and operator of data centers to support high-performance computing services, though it may at that time continue to mine Bitcoin. Until the Divestiture occurs, the Company will continue to provide, through ACG and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries and strategic investments, mission-critical products that support a diverse range of industries, including an AI software platform, social gaming platform, equipment rental services, defense/aerospace, industrial, automotive, medical/biopharma and hotel operations. In addition, ACG is actively engaged in private credit and structured finance through a licensed lending subsidiary. Hyperscale Data’s headquarters are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 190, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

    On December 23, 2024, the Company issued one million (1,000,000) shares of a newly designated Series F Exchangeable Preferred Stock (the “Series F Preferred Stock”) to all common stockholders and holders of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on an as-converted basis. The Divestiture will occur through the voluntary exchange of the Series F Preferred Stock for shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock of ACG (collectively, the “ACG Shares”). The Company reminds its stockholders that only those holders of the Series F Preferred Stock who agree to surrender such shares, and do not properly withdraw such surrender, in the exchange offer through which the Divestiture will occur, will be entitled to receive the ACG Shares and consequently be stockholders of ACG upon the occurrence of the Divestiture.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors. More information, including potential risk factors, that could affect the Company’s business and financial results are included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, the Company’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. All filings are available at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at hyperscaledata.com.

    Hyperscale Data Investor Contact:
    IR@hyperscaledata.com or 1-888-753-2235

    The MIL Network –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business workshop targets growth during challenging times

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    In the current economic landscape, profitability and growth have become major hurdles for local businesses. Recognising these challenges, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland, is inviting businesses to attend a targeted Lean Productivity Workshop.

    The workshop will take place on Tuesday 10th June, from 9:30am to 2:00pm at Craigavon Civic Centre. Designed specifically for businesses involved in the creation and delivery of goods and services, this half-day session will guide participants through reviewing and improving their operational processes.

    Ideal for those who are involved in manufacturing, logistics, food production, and services, this workshop will offer practical help to improve. By systematically addressing inefficiencies, businesses can unlock productivity improvements of up to 25%, increasing their competitiveness in a demanding market.

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy, said: “Our local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we are committed to supporting them through practical and impactful initiatives like the Lean Productivity Workshop. This event will equip businesses with the tools they need to enhance performance and ultimately improve their bottom line. I encourage all eligible businesses to attend and take advantage of the expert guidance available.”

    Delivered by operational excellence experts from Invest NI, the workshop will cover:

    • Tools and techniques to analyse cost structures
    • Practical steps to streamline operations
    • Strategies to improve efficiency and boost sales

    Attendees will also have the opportunity to sign up for one-to-one mentoring sessions, offering tailored support to tackle their specific business challenges.

    Spaces are limited, and early registration is advised. You can book a free place here: https://bit.ly/3SnqGLW

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Resetting our relationship with the third sector

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Council Leader Jane Meagher writes in the Evening News today about the need to support Edinburgh’s third sector.

    With our population growing and more people struggling with the cost of living, Edinburgh’s third sector is in a precarious position.

    According to the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, seven in 10 charities now cite financial trials as their biggest challenge, up significantly in just two years. Traditional funding streams from the public sector, which provide vital grants to allow charities to operate in our local communities, are under growing pressure too.

    Echoing these concerns, a report to the Scottish Parliament’s Social Justice and Social Security Committee late last year made it clear that short-term funding cycles are creating financial instability for charities, diverting time and resources away from what’s important – delivering valuable services for vulnerable people.

    This predicament came into sharp focus for Edinburgh earlier this year when the Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) – which oversees health and social care spend in the city – had to make difficult decisions to help it make necessary savings of close to £30m. Dozens of local projects and charities have seen their funding pulled as a result.

    Immediately, councillors united to intervene and see what could be done to prevent the devastating closures and redundancies these cuts could bring. Thankfully, we’ve been able to step in to provide emergency £2m funding, providing short term relief for 46 projects.

    Yesterday at Policy and Sustainability Committee, we also agreed how to spend a contingency fund worth £273,473 to further support primarily small, local projects and organisations in our communities which have lost EIJB funding. Grants of £10,000 will be made available this autumn to help with the resilience of the sector.

    Yet, the fact remains that the council also faces significant financial challenges. We remain the worst funded council in Scotland and plugging this gap will be difficult in future years. To that end, we need to find a longer-term sustainable way forward for this sector which provides so much good. Tackling poverty is one of our city’s top priorities and we cannot achieve this without the support of projects which focus on prevention.

    To get ahead of this, we’ve engaged the Edinburgh Partnership to conduct a review of how it supports and works with third sector organisations in Edinburgh, and to ultimately find solutions for improving funding certainty in future years. This includes how grant funding and commissioning is delivered, how third sector organisations monitor and report on their work, and what in-kind support is provided.

    We want to hear about how we can make it simpler, provide more stability, and collaborate to help those who need this sector’s support most. You can share your views through our Consultation Hub webpage, or by attending a workshop from now until Thursday 5 June. Results will be shared with those who take part and with the wider third sector, and will be reported to our next Policy and Sustainability Committee in August.

    In a successful city like Edinburgh, it is unacceptable that 80,000 people are living in poverty–  including close to a quarter of all children – which makes tackling inequality and preventing poverty one of the biggest challenges facing the capital.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Interview with Alexey Overchuk for Rossiyskaya Gazeta

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Alexey Overchuk: Developing the economy together with Eurasian partners is more profitable than doing it alone

    S. Bolotov: What were the countries striving for when they agreed to establish the union and did they manage to get what they wanted?

    A. Overchuk: The Eurasian Union is an economic integration association of five states of Northern Eurasia. If we proceed from the theory of integration, then the development of economies and the improvement of people’s living standards depend on freedom of trade and accessibility to large foreign markets. Russia is a large market, due to which it is an economic center of attraction for neighboring economies. For the countries of the region, Russia is the geographically closest country, whose trade accessibility is determined by its decision to develop common markets for goods, services, capital and labor with them. At the same time, Russia receives benefits not only from economic integration, but also other advantages. By promoting the well-being of our neighbors, we create conditions for our own creative development, and this is no longer just an economic category.

    The processes taking place in the post-Soviet space have deeper roots than the framework of interaction defined by the EAEU law. In some ways, this promotes the development of integration, and in others, it slows it down. Therefore, the joint advancement of the countries of the Eurasian five is a constant testing of a possible path of coordinated development based on mutual respect for interests and consensus decision-making. States never have completely coinciding interests, so the results of integration do not always coincide with their expectations, but all participants share an understanding of the fundamental reasons for integration and receive benefits from it.

    Imagine if we didn’t have the EAEU today? It would mean that we are fenced off from our closest neighbors by customs barriers and technical regulations. Manufacturers from Russia and partner countries would incur much higher costs for moving goods across borders, and they would need to specifically adapt their products to the requirements of individual country markets. As a result, they would have worse competitive conditions in the markets of neighboring countries and less income.

    The GDP growth in the EAEU member states in recent years speaks for itself – plus 4.4% for the EAEU as a whole in 2024. This is significantly higher than the global average rate, estimated at 3.3%.

    Our countries are jointly strengthening transport and logistics connectivity both within the EAEU and with our closest neighbors. The plan to connect the EAEU with China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative is being implemented, and we are jointly developing the “North-South” international transport corridor, as well as other transcontinental land routes that allow us to better realize our competitive advantages in Greater Eurasia.

    Last year, we took a very important step towards stimulating the development of industrial cooperation ties and creating conditions for the inclusion of small economies of the union in this process.

    GDP growth in the EAEU member states speaks for itself – 4.4% in 2024 against the world average of 3.3%

    The EAEU has moved to practical support for industry by subsidizing the interest rate on loans for projects involving representatives of three or more EAEU member states. Business is beginning to master this tool, which allows for lower lending costs. The first projects have already been approved.

    The issue of extending similar support measures to agriculture is currently being considered at the Eurasian Economic Commission. I do not rule out that in the future we will put forward a proposal to stimulate the strengthening of cooperative ties in the construction of transport and logistics facilities.

    S. Bolotov: Economists say that a market of at least 300 million people is needed for serious investments in modern production to pay off. The USA, the European Union, China or India have such a population and market, but the EAEU countries have about 185 million people. Where can we find more consumers?

    A. Overchuk: Our union is a large common market, where all five member states are interested in the growth of their economies. To do this, it is necessary not only to create better conditions for doing business in the common domestic market, but also to promote goods from the EAEU for export. Access to foreign markets is necessary to gain advantages from the economy of size, increase sales and income growth, and to do this, it is necessary to negotiate better conditions with foreign partners. When it comes to concluding free trade agreements, our five countries together have a stronger negotiating position.

    The EAEU already has such agreements with Vietnam and Serbia, and another one has been in force since May 15, 2025, with Iran. This is in addition to our 185 million people, plus approximately another 190 million. We are now close to signing agreements with two countries, and negotiations are still underway, which will also improve the accessibility of foreign markets for EAEU producers. Of course, there is no direct calculation here, each agreement is unique and in each case covers certain product positions, but in general, this expands the opportunities for investment recoupment.

    At the same time, it is not only free access to the market and its capacity that are important. Interest in purchasing the final imported product also depends on the participation of a particular country in the international supply chain, the availability of investments and corresponding jobs on its territory. Then you get a competitive product that will be produced, bought and consumed. This is precisely why we are developing industrial cooperation and transport connectivity both within the EAEU and the CIS, and with the countries of Greater Eurasia.

    S. Bolotov: How big can a free trade area become?

    A. Overchuk: Perhaps we should not speak in terms of creating a large free trade zone. The signing of each agreement is the result of an agreed balance of benefits and losses that may arise if it comes into force. There are economies with which our five, for various reasons, will probably not come to such decisions very soon.

    At the same time, we see that Eurasia has enormous creative potential, where the countries of the north and south strive for development and do a lot for this. There are such international associations as the SCO and ASEAN, BRICS, building relations on mutual respect of the participating parties. For our part, we consider the EAEU as the center of economic crystallization of Northern Eurasia, which has achieved a high level of social and economic development, and has also generally solved the problems of food and energy security. This makes our five an attractive partner for the countries of the Global South, which still cannot overcome the consequences of colonial dependence on the countries of Western Europe.

    Eurasia has enormous creative potential, where the countries of the north and south strive for development and do a lot for this

    Many of these countries are drawn to Russia. We see this both from the number of world leaders who visited our country on May 9 and from the participation and discussions within the framework of the Russia-Africa forums. These are dozens of states with a population of billions of people, and each of them has its own characteristics and interests. The world is diverse, and approaches to building mutually beneficial and respectful relations can be much more variable than the creation of free trade zones.

    In 2015, President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin put forward the initiative of the Greater Eurasian Partnership. Its implementation involves the creation of an open integration circuit on the Eurasian continent through the consolidation of the efforts of all states and regional associations based on the EAEU, SCO and ASEAN. This is about linking national and regional projects, creating conditions for socio-economic progress and equalizing the levels of development of individual countries based on strengthening transport and logistics connectivity, technological re-equipment and strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties. This is a major civilizational project that is just beginning to take shape, and work on it is more comprehensive than negotiations on the creation of free trade zones with individual countries.

    S. Bolotov: And the EAEU itself does not plan to expand?

    A. Overchuk: The attractiveness of international integration associations is determined by their benefits for the participating states and how they position themselves. The EAEU is a young integration association, it is only ten years old. It is still in the formation stage. Many issues still need to be resolved, and much still needs to be agreed upon.

    The business community and people in the five EAEU countries are beginning to realize the advantages of union integration. They see that intra-union trade has fewer barriers and is more convenient than trade with third countries, which is proven by its faster growth rates. This is especially noticeable in the example of Armenia and Kyrgyzstan, which joined somewhat later and in a short time, thanks to the accessibility of a large market, have significantly raised their economies and living standards. The economy of Kazakhstan is actively developing, where a large number of significant industrial, energy, and transport and logistics investment projects are being implemented and where agriculture is reaching a new level. Belarus, with which Russia has deep integration relations within the Union State, is successfully developing high-added-value production. In the context of the formation of a multipolar world, the growth of tariff barriers, the decline in the effectiveness of the WTO system, the breakdown of international supply chains and the growth of economic threats, all countries of the world will strive to find regional partners with whom they can establish sustainable integration ties. As global challenges mount, our neighbors will want greater predictability for their economies and will see the EAEU as a kind of “safe haven” where they are treated with respect and their interests are taken into account.

    It is also necessary to understand that our integration association is developing on the basis of a balance of interests of the five member states. It has already managed to turn into a very complex system, has formed its own law, has acquired requirements and is actively promoting international trade and economic relations. The accession of new states to the union will already be a more complex process than, for example, several years ago. If someone decides to go this way, then they will have to do a lot to comply with our standards and rules.

    At the same time, when coordinating the possibility of joining a particular country, member states will decide what level of integration and with whom best meets their interests. We also understand that this is a mutual process. For our part, by granting interested countries the status of an observer state, we allow them to get a better idea of the internal structure of the EAEU and make a more informed choice. Today, Iran, Uzbekistan and Cuba are observers of the EAEU.

    Along with this, due to deep historical, cultural, humanitarian and economic ties, there is a high degree of integration with the CIS member states, which allows them to a large extent to receive similar integration advantages from proximity to Russia. The EAEU member states form the backbone of the CIS, which predetermines the trajectory of convergence of the EAEU and CIS law. Such work is underway.

    The EAEU is open not only to the countries of the post-Soviet space. In addition, the EAEU member states are already adopting multilateral agreements that are accessible for accession by states that are not part of our integration association. So there are many ways for mutually beneficial integration.

    S. Bolotov: Prices for gas, other fuel and raw materials, as well as food from Russia for partners in the EAEU are significantly lower than on the international market. Will it not turn out that our country will give them more than it receives in return?

    A. Overchuk: These are our allies and closest neighbors. Our well-being largely depends on their proximity to Russia. We are interested in our countries developing together, their standard of living rising, their economy growing, and us all prospering together. If the EAEU consists of successful countries connected by numerous threads, then we will ensure our peaceful development. Accessibility of resources and a common market are the basis for the common well-being of us and our neighbors.

    Such mutual dependence imposes a special responsibility on Russia as the largest economy in our integration. It is necessary to calculate the consequences of decisions taken for countries that have transferred part of their sovereignty to the level of the EAEU. Therefore, we have introduced a rule to check all regulatory legal acts being prepared for compliance with the law of the union.

    S. Bolotov: No one objects to the free movement of goods, but when it comes to labor migration, doubts arise. Will this not harm Russia’s national interests?

    A. Overchuk: This is indeed a very complex topic, and there are different points of view. The demographic situation, demand for labor and its cost are such that in order to develop the economy and curb inflation, it is necessary to attract labor migrants. Of course, part of this problem can be solved by introducing advanced technologies and increasing labor productivity, but this is a longer-term solution that requires investments, which are especially expensive today.

    On the other hand, all over the world, and Russia is no exception, the influx of labor migrants creates problems caused not only by the peculiarities of the labor market, but also by cultural differences, ignorance of laws and the language barrier, which leads to the formation of isolated national diasporas, an increase in crime and conflict situations. We are all watching how the replacement of the indigenous population in Europe is taking place, and many do not feel positive about it. The question is how to make the problems of labor migration less painful for society.

    The EAEU law helps to relieve some of the tension associated with the movement of labor between countries. It allows citizens of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia working outside their countries to enjoy the same rights as citizens of the country where they live and work. They are subject to the same personal income taxes. The absence of differences in the treatment of citizens of the EAEU member states creates better conditions for the integration of these people into our society, affects their quality of life, makes them confident in their rights, less dependent on diasporas, and largely cuts the ground from under the feet of crime associated with labor migration. This largely explains why we would like to expand the EAEU at the expense of countries that send us the largest number of labor migrants.

    Of course, there are differences due to traditions and culture. Knowledge of the language of the host country is also very important. Historically, in the former USSR, Russian is the language of interethnic communication, which, in addition to familiarization with the great Russian literature, culture, science and education, allows people from different countries to communicate with each other, live side by side, develop together, conduct business, work, negotiate and avoid conflicts.

    Unfortunately, perhaps, in all post-Soviet countries the establishment of independence was associated with distancing from Russia and a reduction in the use of the Russian language. Attempts to displace the Russian language from the spheres of education, culture and public administration are still ongoing. To a large extent, this is facilitated by countries unfriendly to us, striving to reduce Russia’s influence in the region by dividing our peoples and perfectly understanding the importance of the Russian language as a link between the entire space of Northern Eurasia.

    At the same time, knowledge of foreign languages opens access to new knowledge, cultures and better employment conditions. In our region, the truth is that the successful development of post-Soviet countries is directly dependent on their proximity to Russia, access to the Russian education system, culture and ability to communicate with each other in Russian.

    Today, having received some negative experience, our neighbors are coming to understand the importance of the Russian language and the Russian education system for their further development. There is a growing awareness that the distance from Russia has had a negative impact on the quality of education. Hence, neighbors are seeing an increased demand for children to study in schools with instruction in Russian, especially if the classes are taught by teachers who have come from Russia.

    That is why we receive requests to send Russian teachers, conduct internships in Russia for Russian language teachers, build Russian schools that operate according to Russian educational standards, organize branches of Russian universities, increase quotas for admission of young people to Russian universities, hold days of Russian culture, support Russian theater in their countries, and much more. And this is what our departments are actively engaged in today.

    The Russian language is the common heritage of all countries of Northern Eurasia, and the International Organization for the Russian Language was established by the CIS member states to disseminate and protect it.

    We must not fall for the bait of those who, acting on the principle of “divide and rule”, seek to distance post-Soviet states and people from Russia, who just over thirty years ago had the same passports as us and who continue to gravitate towards Russia. Many can still say that we were born in the same country, we are united by a common history, values and belonging to a single civilization, they want their children and grandchildren to think the same way – this is what we strive to preserve. So why follow the lead of those who seek to destroy it? Therefore, we patiently carry out creative work to preserve and spread the Russian language, our education and culture in the countries of the former USSR.

    It is these efforts that will provide the level of knowledge necessary for the conflict-free integration of labor migrants into our society. And this is most important, since the success of economic integration and the common future of our countries depend on the relations between people.

    Historically, in the former USSR, Russian is the language of interethnic communication

    S. Bolotov: What is better for Russia, to be the most European country in Asia or the most Asian country in Europe?

    A. Overchuk: Our history spans many centuries, during which the peoples inhabiting Northern Eurasia, including the Slavs, absorbed much from both Asia and Europe. At the same time, unlike the Western civilization that places itself above others and the colonial empires built by the Europeans, the peoples of our countries developed at the expense of their own resources and mutual trade, generously shared among themselves, as was the case under the USSR, even the latter, and carefully treated the traditions and culture of all the peoples inhabiting the vast space from the Carpathians to the Pacific Ocean. This is precisely why a unique civilizational community of peoples was formed in Northern Eurasia, which for many centuries has retained the ability to self-recovery, maintain human relationships and develop together.

    The Mongol Empire, which had united this vast space, broke up into separate uluses, leaving behind elements of state administration and a financial system that still exist today, memories of the Great Silk Road, and a tolerant attitude towards diverse cultures and religions. Parts of this eastern empire were gathered by the Moscow Principality into the Russian Empire, which took much from the West and passed the baton to the Soviet Union, under which the peoples who inhabited it, having made a leap in their social and economic development, formed the basis that allowed them to transform into new independent states.

    Modern Northern Eurasia, of which Russia is a part, consists of independent states that are united by a common great history, values, trade and economic ties and belonging to a unique Eurasian civilization that cannot be called either Asian or European. And the task of Eurasian integration is to preserve this heritage and create conditions for a common prosperous future for the numerous peoples inhabiting this vast space.

    Source – “Rossiyskaya Gazeta”

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Zanubis in motion: Tracing the active evolution of the Android banking malware

    Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

    Headline: Zanubis in motion: Tracing the active evolution of the Android banking malware

    Introduction

    Zanubis is a banking Trojan for Android that emerged in mid-2022. Since its inception, it has targeted banks and financial entities in Peru, before expanding its objectives to virtual cards and crypto wallets.

    The main infection vector of Zanubis is impersonating legitimate Peruvian Android applications and then misleading the user into enabling the accessibility permissions. Once these permissions are granted, the malware gains extensive capabilities that allow its operators to steal the user’s banking data and credentials, as well as perform remote actions and control the device without the user’s knowledge.

    This Android malware is undergoing continuous development, and we have seen new samples extending their data exfiltration and remote-control functionality as well as new obfuscation methods and deceptive tactics. The threat actors behind Zanubis continue to refine its code – adding features, switching between encryption algorithms, shifting targets, and tweaking social engineering techniques to accelerate infection rates. These updates are often aligned with recurring campaigns, suggesting a deliberate effort to keep the malware relevant and effective.

    To understand how the Trojan reached its current stage, we need to look back at its origins and the early signs of what was to come. Join us in this blogpost as we take a closer look at the malware’s evolution over time.

    2022: From zero to threat

    Zanubis was first observed in the wild around August 2022, initially targeting financial institutions and cryptocurrency exchange users in Peru. At the time of its discovery, the malware was distributed through apps disguised as a PDF reader, using the logo of a well-known application to appear legitimate and lure victims into installing it.

    In its early stages, Zanubis used to employ a much simpler and more limited approach compared to the functionality we would explore later. The malware retrieved its configuration and the package names of all the targeted applications by reaching a hardcoded pastebin site and parsing its data in XML/HTML format.

    Upon startup, the malware would collect key information from the infected device. This included the contact list, the list of installed applications, and various device identifiers, such as the manufacturer, model, and fingerprint. The Trojan also performed specific checks to identify whether the device was a Motorola, Samsung, or Huawei, suggesting tailored behavior or targeting based on brand.

    Additionally, the malware attempted to collect and bypass battery optimization settings, likely to ensure it could continue running in the background without interruption. All of the gathered information was then formatted and transmitted to a remote server using the WebSocket protocol. For that, Zanubis used a hardcoded initial URL to establish communication and exfiltrate the collected data and also received a small set of commands from the C2 server.

    The malware operated as an overlay-based banking Trojan that abused Android’s accessibility service. By leveraging accessibility permissions, the malware was able to run silently in the background, monitoring which applications were currently active on the device. When it detected that a targeted application was opened, it immediately displayed a pre-generated overlay designed to mimic the legitimate interface. This overlay captured the user’s credentials as they were entered, effectively stealing sensitive information without raising suspicion.

    Zanubis targeted 40 banking and financial applications in Peru. The malware maintained a predefined list of package names corresponding to these institutions, and used this list to trigger overlay attacks. This targeting strategy reflected a focused campaign aimed at compromising users of financial services through credential theft.

    At that point, the malware appeared to be under active development – code obfuscation had not yet been implemented, making the samples fully readable upon decompilation. Additionally, several debugging functions were still present in the versions captured in the wild.

    2023: Multi-feature upgrade

    In April 2023, we identified a new campaign featuring a revamped version of Zanubis. This time, the malicious package masqueraded as the official Android application of SUNAT (Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria), Peru’s national tax and customs authority. It copied both the name and icon of the legitimate app, making it appear authentic to unsuspecting users.

    Shift to obfuscation

    Unlike earlier versions, this variant introduced significant changes in terms of stealth. The code was fully obfuscated, making manual analysis and detection more difficult. After decompilation, it became clear that in order to sophisticate the malware analysis, the threat actors used Obfuscapk, a widely used obfuscation framework for Android APKs. Obfuscapk combines multiple techniques, including a range of obfuscators and so-called “confusers”. These techniques vary in complexity: from basic measures like renaming classes, adding junk code, and replacing method signatures, to more advanced strategies such as code RC4 encryption and control-flow obfuscation. The goal was to hinder reverse engineering and slow down both static and dynamic analysis, giving the operators more time to execute their campaigns undetected.

    Junk code (on the left) and renaming (on the right) obfuscation methods applied to the malicious implant

    Once installed and executed, the malware began setting up its internal components, including various classes, functions, and the SharedPreferences object, which are essential for the Trojan’s operation. The latter typically stores sensitive configuration data such as C2 server URLs, encryption keys, API endpoints, and communication ports.

    Deceptive tricks

    Throughout all versions of Zanubis, a key step in its execution flow has been to ensure it has accessibility service permissions, which are crucial for its overlay attacks and background monitoring. To obtain these, the malware checks if it is running for the first time and whether the necessary permissions have been granted. If not, it employs a deceptive tactic to manipulate the user into enabling them, a feature that varies between versions.

    In the 2023 version, the malware displayed a fake instructional webpage using WebView, claiming that additional permissions were needed to view a document – a plausible excuse, given the app’s disguise as an official application. On this page, a prominent button labeled “Ir a Accesibilidad” (“Go to Accessibility”) was presented. Once tapped, the button triggered a redirection to the system’s Accessibility Settings screen or directly to the specific panel for enabling accessibility features for the malicious app, depending on the device model.

    Instructions to trick the user into enabling Accessibility Permissions

    Translation:

    “Steps to view documents”, “1. Select the downloaded file”.

    This trick relies heavily on social engineering, leveraging trust in the app’s appearance and the user’s lack of awareness about Android’s permission system. Once accessibility permissions are granted, the malware silently enables additional settings to bypass battery optimization, ensuring it can remain active in the background indefinitely, ready to execute its malicious functions without user intervention.

    With background access secured, the malware loads a legitimate SUNAT website used by real users to check debts and tax information. By embedding this trusted page in a WebView, the app reinforces its disguise and avoids raising suspicion, appearing as a normal, functional part of SUNAT’s official services while continuing its malicious activity in the background.

    Data harvesting

    Just like earlier versions, the malware began by collecting device information and connecting to its C2 server to await further instructions. Communication with the C2 API was encrypted with RC4 using a hardcoded key and Base64-encoded. Once initialization was complete, the malware entered a Socket.IO polling loop, sleeping for 10 seconds between checks for incoming events emitted by the C2 server. This time, however, the list of available commands had grown significantly, expanding the malware’s capabilities far beyond previous versions.

    When a targeted app was detected running on the device, this version of Zanubis took one of two actions to steal user data, depending on its current settings. The first method involved keylogging by tracking user interface events such as taps, focus changes, and text input, effectively capturing sensitive information like credentials or personal data. These logs were stored locally and later sent to the C2 server upon request. Alternatively, Zanubis could activate screen recording to capture everything the user did within the app, sending both visuals and interaction data directly to the server.

    SMS hijacking

    Another new feature introduced in this campaign is SMS hijacking, a critical technique for compromising bank accounts and services that rely on SMS for two-factor authentication. Once instructed by the C2 server, Zanubis set itself as the default SMS app on the device, allowing it to intercept all incoming messages via a custom receiver. This gave the malware access to verification codes sent by banks and other sensitive services, and even the ability to delete them before the user could see them, effectively hiding its activity.

    These actions remained completely hidden from the user. Even if the user attempted to regain control and set their default SMS app back to normal, Zanubis would block that possibility.

    Fake updates

    One of the most invasive and deceptive behaviors exhibited by Zanubis was triggered through the bloqueoUpdate (“update lockout” in English) event, which simulated a legitimate Android system update. When activated, the malware locked the device and prevented any normal interaction, rendering it almost completely unusable. Attempts to lock or unlock the screen were detected and locked, making it nearly impossible for the user to interrupt the process.

    Before displaying the fake update overlay, the malware could send a warning notification claiming that an urgent update was about to be installed, advising the user not to interact with the device. This increased the credibility of the ruse and reduced the chances of user interference.

    Behind this fake update, Zanubis continued operating silently in the background, performing malicious tasks such as uninstalling apps, intercepting SMS messages, changing system settings, and modifying permissions, all without the victim’s awareness.

    Fake update blocking the user from making use of the phone

    Translation:

    “Some screen components are being updated, please keep your device connected to the internet and wait approximately 30 minutes for the update to finish”. “Do not lock or interact with the device”.

    2024: Continuous development

    During 2024, we continued monitoring Zanubis on various resources, including third-party platforms. In early May, we detected the appearance of new variants in the wild, particularly observed on VirusTotal. Over 30 versions of the malware were uploaded from Peru, revealing the developer’s efforts to test and implement new functionalities and features into the malware.

    Samples uploaded to VirusTotal

    Reinforced encryption

    In these newer iterations of Zanubis, the developers implemented mechanisms to protect hardcoded strings, aiming to complicate analysis and reduce detection rates. The threat actors used a key derived via PBKDF2 to encrypt and decrypt strings on-the-fly, relying on AES in ECB mode. This method allowed the implant to keep critical strings hidden during static analysis, only revealing them when needed during execution.

    Source strings were not the only data encrypted in these new implants. The communication between the C2 and the malware was also protected using AES in ECB mode, which indicates a shift from the use of RC4 in previous samples. Unlike the hardcoded key used for string encryption, in this case, a new 32-byte key was randomly generated each time data was about to be sent.

    Device credential stealing

    Among the most critical actions performed by this version of Zanubis was the theft of device credentials. Once active in the background, the malware constantly monitored system events triggered by other applications. When it detected activity related to authentication that needed the input of a PIN, password, or pattern, it attempted to identify the type of authentication being used and captured the corresponding input.

    The malware monitored specific signals that indicated the user was interacting with the lock screen or a secure input method. When these were identified, the malware actively collected the characters entered or gestures used. If it detected that the input was invalid, it reset the authentication tracking to avoid storing invalid data. Once the input process was completed and the user moved on, the malware sent the collected credentials to the C2 server.

    Device credentials collected by Zanubis

    Expanding scope

    This version of the malware continued to target banking applications and financial institutions in Peru, expanding its reach to include virtual card providers, as well as digital and cryptocurrency wallets. This update added 14 new targeted applications, increasing the scope of its attacks and broadening the range of financial services it can exploit.

    2025: Latest campaign

    In mid-January of 2025, we identified new samples indicating an updated version of Zanubis. The updates range from changes in the malware distribution and deception strategy to code modifications, new C2 commands, and improved filtering of target applications for credential theft.

    New distribution tactics

    Zanubis previously impersonated Peru’s tax authority, SUNAT. However, in this new campaign, we have identified two new Peruvian entities being spoofed: a company in the energy sector and a bank that was not previously abused.

    The Trojan initially disguises itself as two legitimate apps from the targeted companies, each crafted to exploit a specific user need. For the energy company, the malicious APK is distributed under names like “Boleta_XXXXXX” (“bill”) or “Factura_XXXXXX” (“invoice”), deceiving users into believing they are verifying a supposed bill or invoice.

    Fake screen designed to verify invoices

    Meanwhile, for the bank, victims are enticed to download the malware under the guise of instructions from a fake bank advisor. This setup acts as the initial dropper for the malware, using familiar, trusted contexts to ensure successful installation.

    Follow your advisor’s instructions message from the fake bank app

    Silent installation

    Once the user downloads and launches the lure app, a screen appears with the company’s logo, stating that necessary checks are in progress. Meanwhile, in the background, the dropper attempts to silently install the final payload, Zanubis, which is embedded in the initial malware’s internal resources (res/raw/). To retrieve the APK, the dropper leverages the PackageInstaller class. This installation process occurs without any user involvement, as there are no prompts or warnings to alert the victim. By utilizing PackageInstaller, the malware writes the APK to the device in the background and completes the installation automatically, unnoticed. This technique is employed to evade detection. After installation, an intent is sent to signal that the package has been successfully installed.

    Sharpening targets

    In the latest iteration of the malware, the scope of targeted entities has been significantly narrowed, with a clear focus on banks and financial institutions. The once-broad range of targets, including cryptocurrency wallets, has been abandoned.

    This strategic shift suggests an intention to streamline the attack efforts and concentrate on sectors that manage the most sensitive and valuable data, such as banking credentials and financial transactions. By honing in on these high-stakes targets, the malware becomes even more dangerous, as it now focuses on the most lucrative avenues for cybercriminals.

    Who’s behind?

    Based on our ongoing analysis of Zanubis, several indicators suggest that the threat actors behind the malware may be operating from Peru. These indicators include, for instance, the consistent use of Latin American Spanish in the code, knowledge of Peruvian banking and government agencies, and telemetry data from our systems and VirusTotal.

    The focus on Peruvian entities as targets also strongly indicates that the threat actors behind Zanubis are likely based in Peru. These regional indicators, combined with the malware’s ongoing financial fraud campaigns, point to a well-organized operation focused on exploiting local institutions.

    Conclusions

    Zanubis has demonstrated a clear evolution, transitioning from a simple banking Trojan to a highly sophisticated and multi-faceted threat. The malware has been continuously refined and enhanced, incorporating new features and capabilities. Its focus remains on high-value targets, particularly banks and financial institutions in Peru, making it a formidable adversary in the region.

    Furthermore, the attackers behind Zanubis show no signs of slowing down. They continue to innovate and adjust their tactics, shifting distribution methods to ensure the malware reaches new victims and executes silently. This constant refinement demonstrates that Zanubis is not a transient threat but an ongoing, persistent menace, capable of further mutations to fulfill the financial goals of its developers.

    As Zanubis continues to evolve and adapt, it is crucial for users and organizations alike to stay vigilant. The threat landscape is constantly changing, and this malware’s ability to evolve and target new victims makes it an ever-present risk that cannot be ignored.

    Indicators of compromise

    Zanubis 2025 version
    81f91f201d861e4da765bae8e708c0d0
    fd43666006938b7c77b990b2b4531b9a
    8949f492001bb0ca9212f85953a6dcda
    45d07497ac7fe550b8b394978652caa9
    03c1e2d713c480ec7dc39f9c4fad39ec
    660d4eeb022ee1de93b157e2aa8fe1dc
    8820ab362b7bae6610363d6657c9f788
    323d97c876f173628442ff4d1aaa8c98
    b3f0223e99b7b66a71c2e9b3a0574b12
    7ae448b067d652f800b0e36b1edea69f
    0a922d6347087f3317900628f191d069
    0ac15547240ca763a884e15ad3759cf1
    1b9c49e531f2ad7b54d40395252cbc20
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    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa highlights importance of US Working Visit

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has underscored the significance of his recent working visit to the United States, telling Parliament that the engagement was both necessary and timely, given the critical role the US continues to play in South Africa’s economic landscape. 

    “The United States continues to play such a big role in the life of our economy. It was necessary and important for us to go and engage with them, because many of our people’s jobs are dependent on our economic dealings with the United States,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday.

    The President was responding to questions from Members of the National Assembly, with economic growth and the cost of living being among issues for deliberation.

    Last week, the President concluded a successful working visit to the United States of America, supported by a delegation of Ministers, eminent South Africans, business and labour. 

    The visit was aimed at resetting and revitalising bilateral relations between South Africa and the US.

    The President explained that the objective of the trip was to engage with the US government to discuss tariffs, investments, and other related matters. It was also to encourage the US President to attend the G20 Summit which South Africa will host and to promote investment by American companies in South Africa and South African companies in the US. 

    He reiterated that the primary goal of the working visit was to reset the relationship between the two countries, recognising the significant economic and political ties. 

    The delegation aimed to address the deteriorating relationship, which was a concern for many in South Africa, and to ensure mutual economic benefits.

    “The issue of relations between South Africa and the United States was an issue that occupied many people’s minds in our country, and many had raised concerns about the deteriorating relationship between our two countries, having recognised the important role that both our countries play in each other’s economy, apart from various political relations, diplomatic relations, and we realised that the impact on our country’s economy would be adverse unless we were able to repair or reset the relationship between our two countries,” the President said. 

    The President highlighted the importance of the United States as a trading partner, with over 600 American companies invested in South Africa, and vice versa.

    READ | SA and US have ‘everything to gain’ from closer relations

    On the economic and sectoral impact, President Ramaphosa detailed that the sectors that would be affected by the relationship with the United States including the agriculture and automotive sector.

    He added that the visit aimed to protect jobs and investments in these sectors by maintaining strong economic ties.

    “A number of our jobs, some of the sectors that would be affected would be agriculture, the auto sector and steel and aluminium sector, and a number of other sectors that make machines, and the mining sector, where we sell critical minerals to the United States, would be adversely affected if the relations were not straightened out. So it was to this end that we were motivated to reset that relationship,” the President explained.

    President Ramaphosa said the second objective was to set up a process of engagement between the United States and South Africa. 

    “There had hitherto been a process of disengaging, where we were no longer really engaging at government level to deal with issues that governments normally deal with on an ongoing basis. And we wanted to engage on tariffs, on investments and related matters,” the President said.

    G20 and resetting relations

    On the Group of Twenty (G20) the President said that the trip aimed to highlight the significance of the G20 process and to encourage US participation.

    “The third objective was to discuss the G20 and to highlight the important role that a country like the United States, which is the largest economy in the world, plays in the activities of the G20 which we are so deeply immersed in and having the responsibility of leading and that it’s important for the United States to engage with the G20 process, and ultimately to entice the leader of the United States to come to the leaders’ summit at the end of the year,” the President said. 

    The President emphasised that despite public perceptions, the delegation had meaningful discussions with President Trump and his representatives, fostering ongoing engagement. 

    He added that the engagement process initiated after the trip has led to discussions on tariffs and investments, indicating a positive reset of relations.

    The reset of relations is believed to have been achieved, with ongoing discussions expected to continue through the G20 process.
    “We do believe that we achieved those objectives. The engagement with the American government has started soon after we left Washington…and there are discussions that are happening in relation to tariffs, in relation to investments, and we’ve believed that we have reset the relationship. 

    “Despite what we could have seen on television, we were able to have a much more meaningful discussion and meeting with President Trump and his representatives during the quiet room where we had lunch together and had meaningful exchanges on a number of issues. And we do believe that the engagement will continue through the G20 process,” the President said.  – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 28, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Canadian Credit Market Reaches $2.5 Trillion in Outstanding Balances, with Gen Z Canadians Accounting for 10% of Credit Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Key findings from TransUnion report:

    • New-to-credit Canadians led to greater credit participation, accounting for $2.6 billion in new credit balances in Q1 2025
    • Subprime consumers are almost twice as likely to go delinquent within 12 months of opening new credit cards, compared to their pre-pandemic cohorts
    • Growing concerns around Canadian consumers experiencing economic strain

    TORONTO, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The first quarter of 2025 saw mixed outcomes in the Canadian credit market, according to TransUnion’s Q1 2025 Credit Industry Insights Report (CIIR). Growth was fuelled by increased borrowing from young Canadians and newcomers. Consumer balances for non-mortgage products rose across most products, driven primarily by below prime consumers. Subprime consumers continued to struggle as their delinquency rates rose at significantly higher rates than prime and above consumers. Regional differences in cost of living and economic conditions also led to varying delinquency trends across provinces.

    Gen Z Consumers Accelerated Overall Credit Participation with 30.6% Year-Over-Year Growth in New Balances

    After the decline in interest rates and inflation in late 2024, Canadians’ total outstanding balances across all credit products grew by 4.7% year-over-year (YoY) and total outstanding credit debt reached $2.5 trillion in Q1 2025. Continued credit expansion, propelled by younger consumers, including new Canadians entering the credit market, was a key driver of this growth.

    As Gen Z consumers continued to participate in the credit market, outstanding balances within this generation have grown 30.6% from the prior year, contributing $12 billion or 10.3% of total new balance growth. Canadian newcomers also represent a significant portion of the growing credit market, driving $2.6 billion in new credit balances, a 6.3% increase YoY.

    “As a growing share of Gen Z consumers actively engage with credit, lenders face a pivotal opportunity to shape lifelong financial relationships,” said Matt Fabian, director of financial services research and consulting at TransUnion Canada. “This generation values digital-first experiences, personalized education and brands that align with their values. Prioritizing credit education, fostering early loyalty and offering seamless, mobile-friendly solutions will be key to staying relevant and building trust with these new-to-market borrowers.”

    Non-Mortgage Balances Continue to Grow, Driven by Below Prime Consumers

    Non-mortgage debt grew 2.4% as consumer balances continued to increase across most products. However, total non-mortgage debt did not grow equally across all risk tiers. Below prime average consumer balances grew 4.4%, with subprime consumers contributing the highest increase at 6.3%, while prime plus and super prime consumer balances remained mostly flat.

    Risk Tier Avg. Non-Mortgage Balances per Consumer YoY Change in Non-Mortgage Balances YoY Change in Consumer Card Balances YoY Change in Consumer Personal Loan Balances
    Super Prime $26,355 0.10%   -0.30%   4.50%  
    Prime Plus $26,301 0.10%   1.10%   4.50%  
    Prime $24,983 3.30%   6.20%   4.90%  
    Near Prime $29,681 3.80%   5.90%   4.70%  
    Subprime $23,638 6.30%   5.50%   6.70%  

    The YoY growth in average balances among below prime consumers may be due to these consumers utilizing more credit to augment disposable income in the face of elevated prices. This trend was seen particularly with the growth in credit card and personal loan balances, as these are traditionally the products used by consumers for liquidity. Below prime consumer average balances across these products grew at a faster rate than overall borrower balance growth during this period.

    Additionally, the data shows regional disparities in the YoY growth rates of non-mortgage debt, although province rankings did not change from the previous quarter. P.E.I. and Newfoundland had the highest average debt per borrower, while Quebec and Manitoba had the lowest. While the gap between the highest and lowest average debt balances across provinces may not appear substantial, even modest differences in average debt per consumer can significantly influence delinquency rates. Consumers in provinces with higher average debt levels may be more susceptible to increases in interest rates as well as higher everyday living costs, making them more vulnerable to financial strain and increasing the likelihood of delinquency, particularly during economic downturns.

    “The rise in balances from higher-risk and more vulnerable credit consumers signals a critical moment for lenders to reassess risk strategies and engagement models. Proactive credit monitoring, tailored financial support and early intervention tools can mitigate potential delinquencies while still maintaining consumer access to credit,” said Fabian. “At the same time, consumers should continue to build financial resilience by understanding their credit profiles, seeking guidance when needed and using credit responsibly. Empowered, informed borrowers are key to a healthier credit ecosystem.”

    Ranking Average Consumer Non-Mortgage Debt Balance by Province
           
      Q1 2024 Q1 2025 YoY Change
    Canada $25,786 $26,415 2.44%  
    PEI $27,696 $29,364 6.02%  
    NL $27,876 $28,775 3.23%  
    BC $27,656 $28,585 3.36%  
    AB $28,304 $28,403 0.35%  
    ON $26,880 $27,544 2.47%  
    SK $26,683 $26,972 1.08%  
    NS $24,266 $24,929 2.73%  
    NB $23,675 $24,497 3.47%  
    QC $22,152 $22,756 2.72%  
    MB $20,268 $20,802 2.63%  

    Lower Canada Consumer Credit Index Reflects Weakening Market Conditions

    Economic uncertainty has recently muted credit demand while supply remains strong. Additionally, uncertainty has shifted some credit behaviours as consumers balances have increased while credit performance has remained relatively stable from prior year, driving the Canada Consumer Credit Index to 100.3, down almost 6 points from the prior year.

    Differing Impact of Economic Volatility Across Risk Tiers

    A widening financial divide is emerging among credit consumers across Canada. While recent improvements in inflation and interest rates have provided relief for some, enabling them to reduce debt and strengthen their financial positions, others continue to face significant challenges. These consumers are still grappling with the prolonged effects of past economic volatility, highlighting an uneven recovery and growing disparity in financial resilience.

    Overall consumer-level serious delinquency (consumers 60 days or more delinquent on any credit product) was up 11 basis points YoY to 2.71% in Q1 2025. This increase was driven in part by the recent growth in new-to-credit consumers, who generally carry higher risk in their early years due to their limited credit experience. Even with the recent increase, the current levels of delinquency are similar to those seen prior to the pandemic.

    Subprime consumers have become more likely to experience delinquency soon after opening a new product, with the delinquency rate within the first six months of opening a new credit account doubling between 2020 and 2024. This is particularly evident for below prime credit card and personal loans, where consumers may be more sensitive to interest rates. Subprime consumers that opened a credit card in 2023 or 2024 were 1.7x–2.0x as likely to go delinquent within the first 12 months of holding that card than those who opened a card in 2020. These findings further demonstrate the increased vulnerability that subprime borrowers have to macroeconomic factors such as higher interest rates and increased cost of living.

    Delinquency (90+ DPD) in the First 12 Months on Subprime Card Originations
      Q1 2020 Q1 2021 Q1 2022 Q1 2023 Q1 2024
    12 Months on Book 6.46%  9.18%  11.86%  12.68%  10.76% 

    Geography is also playing a role in the vulnerability or resilience of consumers. A 16 basis point YoY increase in serious consumer delinquencies led to Alberta continuing to have the highest rate across all provinces in Q1 2025, driven by the volatility in oil and gas prices that play a large role in Alberta’s economy. While Quebec remained the province with the lowest rate of delinquencies, it had a seven basis point increase YoY.

    “We’ve seen volatility in delinquency rates attributed to a mix of regional economic pressures and demographic factors. Regional variations in both cost of living as well as wage growth, along with pressure from macro-economic cycles, disproportionately impact specific regions, and hence some provinces have had more volatile consumer credit performance,” Fabian said. “These findings underscore the importance of regionally tailored lending policies and support systems to address the unique challenges faced by those households. Additionally, consumers in more vulnerable areas should stay vigilant in keeping current on payments, monitoring credit and building emergency savings.”

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries, including Canada, where we’re the credit bureau of choice for the financial services ecosystem and most of Canada’s largest banks. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this by providing an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care.

    Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    For more information visit: www.transunion.ca

    For more information or to request an interview, contact:

    Contact: Katie Duffy
    E-mail: katie.duffy@ketchum.com
    Telephone: +1 647-772-0969

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a2ac9d72-919c-465a-a6a5-bd6b61735e35

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0b862de-42f0-43d1-91d5-95001a3f413e

    The MIL Network –

    May 28, 2025
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