Category: Economy

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Security – Sensible Sentencing Trust Slams Police for Dangerous Shift in Shoplifting Investigations

Source: Sensible Sentencing Trust

The Sensible Sentencing Trust is appalled by the disturbing reports that New Zealand Police have issued a directive to staff to avoid investigating shoplifting cases under $500, or online fraud under $1,000, among other crime thresholds.

Sensible Sentencing Trust spokesperson Louise Parsons condemned the directive as “an outrageous and dangerous move,” saying it sends the wrong message at a time when retailers are struggling under rising crime rates and financial pressure.

“The past five or six years, retailers have been hit with an onslaught of crime, and now they’re being told that crimes under certain thresholds are essentially not worth investigating. This is a green light to criminals,” Parsons said.

The directive, which could well include ram raids, has sparked widespread outrage. Parsons pointed out that in a climate where petrol drive-offs under $150 have effectively been decriminalised, this move could further embolden offenders. “This is an absurd, reckless approach that puts businesses and communities at risk. It’s madness!” she stated.

She added, “Do the Police not realise that the Government changed 18 months ago? We have a new Police Commissioner, and the era of ‘policing by consent’ is over. We need strong leadership and a zero-tolerance approach to all crime, particularly when retail crime is spiralling out of control.”

Parsons also drew attention to the disastrous effects of similar policies in other cities, such as San Francisco, which recently raised the shoplifting threshold to $950, only to witness an explosive rise in retail crime. “The chaos in San Francisco was swift and devastating. Retailers had to shut down because they couldn’t operate safely or profitably. We cannot afford to let that happen here.”

She also warned that this directive undermines critical efforts being made by the Ministerial Advisory Group on Retail Crime. “This approach flies in the face of their work to combat retail crime and protect local businesses. If we let this stand, it could undo all the progress we’ve worked so hard to achieve.”

While Parsons acknowledged the frustration of frontline Police officers who are overwhelmed by repeat offenders and lenient judicial outcomes, she firmly stated that setting “de-facto legal theft thresholds” is unjustifiable. “It’s unacceptable. Criminals cannot be allowed to operate with impunity just because the Police aren’t investigating their crimes.”

The Sensible Sentencing Trust is calling on the Government to step in and reassert a tough stance on crime, ensuring that no theft—no matter the size—is left unpunished.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Burke and Minister Donohoe welcome latest figures showing further employment growth in first quarter of 2025
Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

22nd May 2025

The Q1 2025 Labour Force Survey and latest Monthly Unemployment Release show:
- Employment continues to grow, with 90,800 jobs created in the year to Q1 2025
- Total employment now stands at 2.81 million
- Employment growth has been widespread throughout the regions – Employment outside of Dublin increased by 65,700 in the year to Q1 2025 (+3.5 percent)
- Full time employment was up 71,400 (+3.3 percent) year on year in the first quarter, while part time employment was up 20,100 (+3.5 percent) year on year
- In April 2025, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.1 percent, down from the revised rate of 4.4 in March 2025 and from a rate of 4.4 percent in April 2024
Labour Force Survey (LFS) results published today by the Central Statistics Office show continued growth in Ireland’s labour market, with 90,800 jobs created in the year to Q1 2025.

Employment now stands at 2.81 million, an increase of approximately 3.3 percent over Q1 2024.

This is a positive step towards the Programme for Government’s target to create 300,000 extra jobs by 2030, supported by strategic investments, supportive enterprise policies, and a focus on fostering a vibrant economy. This commitment to continued employment growth builds upon the Government’s White Paper on Enterprise, published in December 2022, which sets out the strategic direction for job creation in the years ahead.

Commenting on the figures, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, said:

“The Irish labour market has shown strong resilience and growth, with low unemployment rates and increasing job opportunities across sectors such as technology, healthcare, and finance. Today’s release from the CSO shows an exceptionally strong start to 2025, as the workforce continues to expand, driving the nation’s economic resilience and ensuring a brighter future for job seekers across the regions.

Female participation rates in the labour market in particular have been trending upwards and reached a new historic high in the first quarter of 2025, with more women now availing of opportunities for employment. My Department will continue to support workers throughout their careers, with initiatives to improve work-life balance and flexible working arrangements which encourages greater participation, resulting in greater diversity and inclusion within the workforce.”

The Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe TD, said:

“Today’s results highlight the continued strength of the Irish labour market, with around 90,000 jobs added in the year to Q1 2025. On a seasonally adjusted basis, we now have over 2.8 million people employed in our country, while the unemployment rate stood at 4.0 per cent in the first quarter. It is particularly welcome to see the continued rise in female labour force participation – increasing by over 1 percentage point on an annual basis.

While I am encouraged by the resilience of the labour market in the face of increased economic uncertainty, it is important to stress that today’s figures are backward looking. It is crucial that the strength of the economy in recent years does not lead to complacency.

As we begin preparations for Budget 2026 this summer, starting with the National Economic Dialogue in June, it is imperative that we continue to pursue a balanced and sensible budgetary policy as we navigate this period of uncertainty.”

CSO release here

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MIL OSI Europe News –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES ON HOUSE FLOOR: “IF THEY WON’T FIGHT FOR YOU, WE WILL”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Washington, DC – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke on the House Floor in opposition to the dangerous GOP Tax Scam passed by House Republicans to strip healthcare and nutritional assistance from the American people in order to enact massive tax breaks for billionaires.

JEFFRIES: Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this reckless, regressive and reprehensible GOP Tax Scam. This is One Big Ugly Bill that House Republicans are trying to jam down the throats of the American people under the cover of darkness. This legislation will not make life better for the American people. The GOP Tax Scam represents an assault on the economy, an assault on healthcare, an assault on nutritional assistance, an assault on tax fairness and an assault on fiscal responsibility. There are more than 100 other reasons to vote against this One Big Ugly Bill that can be found by reading this more than 1000-page document. Those reasons are too numerous to mention, but this legislation also undermines reproductive freedom, undermines the progress that we have made in combating the climate crisis, undermines gun safety, undermines the rule of law and the independence of the federal judiciary. It even undermines the ability of hardworking and law-abiding immigrant families to provide remittances to their loved ones who may just happen to live abroad. There are more than 100 different reasons to vote against the GOP Tax Scam. And in the days and the weeks and the months to come, all of those reasons will be exposed for the American people, in each and every one of your districts.

But this bill represents a failed promise. Last year, Donald Trump and House Republicans spent all of their time talking about their promise to lower the high cost of living in the United States of America. In fact, Donald Trump and Republicans promised that costs would go down on day one. We’re now more than 120 days past the inauguration. Costs aren’t going down. They’re going up. Inflation is out of control. Insurance rates remain stubbornly high. Our Moody’s rating, our credit rating has been downgraded. And you’ve got people losing confidence in this economy. Republicans are crashing this economy in real time and driving us toward a recession. But beyond that, costs are actually going up. The trade war that Donald Trump has recklessly launched—his tariff scheme—will raise the cost of goods and groceries and gas for everyday Americans, the Americans that you claimed you were going to help, but the Americans that you are clearly hurting. You’ve destabilized the business environment. Small businesses are at risk of closing. Farmers—small family farmers are in distress. Businesses can’t invest. People are not hiring. You are actively crashing the economy, driving America toward a recession. You promised to lower costs on day one. Costs aren’t going down. They are going up.

Now, as House Democrats, we believe that we have to build an affordable economy for hardworking American taxpayers. We’re committed to lowering housing costs and grocery costs and insurance costs and child care costs and utility costs. America, the wealthiest country in the history of the world—there are far too many people living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to make ends meet. Here in this country, no American should find themselves in that situation. And you promised that you would do something about it. But things are not getting better. They’re getting worse. We could have partnered together to try to find a bipartisan path toward building an affordable economy for hardworking American taxpayers, but you chose to go it alone, to try to drive your extreme right-wing policies down the throats of the American people. And that’s what this One Big Ugly Bill represents.

Not simply a broken promise, as it relates to your failures on the economy. And despite the gentleman from Louisiana trying to articulate all of the so-called successes that have taken place, we know that this presidency has already been a failure, filled with crisis and chaos, cruelty and corruption. And the American people know it, which is why Donald Trump, at the 100-day mark, was the most unpopular President in American history. The American people understand it’s unfolding right before their eyes, no matter what kind of MAGA spin you try to put on the situation. And things are going to get worse. Why? Because of this Big Ugly Bill. Not simply an assault on the economy, a broken promise, it’s an assault on the healthcare of the American people. You see, as Democrats, we believe, in this country, healthcare is not simply a privilege, healthcare is a right. And from Medicare to Medicaid to the passage of the Affordable Care Act and subsequently enhancing it, we’ve begun to move America to a place where every single person in this land can have access to the healthcare that they need to live a life of dignity and respect.

At this moment in America, we have the lowest rate of uninsured people in our nation’s history. But this GOP Tax Scam will reverse that, with this assault on healthcare, the largest cut to Medicaid in American history. And here’s what it will mean for the American people. Children will get hurt. Women will get hurt. Older Americans who rely on Medicaid for nursing home care and for home care will get hurt. People with disabilities who rely on Medicaid to survive will get hurt. Hospitals in your districts will close. Nursing homes will shut down. And people will die. That’s not hype. That’s not hyperbole. That’s not a hypothetical. The people that you all represent have been writing to us to make that clear. Thousands of people who’ve written to us—everyday Americans—have made that clear. And let me just present a few of those stories into the record.

I have Type 1 diabetes and was diagnosed when I was seven years old. I’ve had jobs with private insurance in the past, but I lost my job during the pandemic. With child care becoming a major challenge, it made more sense for me to stay home with the kids, but that also meant losing my health benefits. Right now, we’re all on Medicaid. It’s crucial for me to stay alive and healthy. I need insulin and supplies to manage my diabetes every single day. Without it, I could die. That’s Shauna, who lives in Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District.

My youngest son has leukemia. He was a self-employed handyman, and therefore, he didn’t have sufficient insurance. When the cancer became more debilitating, he could no longer work. He has undergone radiation, stem cell transplant and then more radiation. He is still fighting the cancer. And without Medicaid and the fine physicians, he would surely die. That’s Greg, who lives in the Eighth Congressional District of Colorado.

As a cancer survivor with chronic illnesses, I rely heavily on Medicaid and food stamps to get by. Without these essential programs, people like me would suffer. I’m currently taking expensive medication to stay in remission, but my condition and the side effects of my treatment make it impossible for me to work. Unfortunately, my work history also disqualifies me from receiving Social Security benefits. I’m not alone in my dependence on these Medicaid and food stamps benefits. Children, elders and many others who are sick or struggling, also rely on them to survive. I urge you to do the right thing for the people you represent. Without food stamps and Medicaid, the consequences would be painful and even deadly. That’s Julisa, who had a message for her Representative in Pennsylvania’s Eighth Congressional District.

But we’re here to say, as House Democrats, to Shauna, to Greg and to Julisa, that if your representatives won’t fight for you, we will. We will. We will. If they won’t fight for you, we will fight for you, for your healthcare, for your decency, for your well-being, for your grace and for your dignity.

Full remarks can be watched here.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Center Woman Pleads Guilty for Her Role in a Black-Market Travel Agent Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MINNEAPOLIS – Reginae Calhoun of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota has pleaded guilty to access device fraud and aggravated identify theft, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

According to court documents, from at least April 2024 to June 2024, Reginae Calhoun, 23, operated as a black-market travel agent. She purchased credit card information—including name, address, card numbers, expiration date, and CV2 code—of approximately 216 different victims on the dark web, which she used to book hotel rooms and rental cars for others. Calhoun’s customers paid her a fraction of the actual booking costs through peer-to-peer payment applications or in cash.

According to court documents, on June 2, 2024, Calhoun attempted to purchase airline tickets by using several different credit cards until the purchase was successful. Due to the several attempts, the airline reported suspected credit card fraud to the airport police. Airport police confirmed with the credit card owners that Calhoun was not authorized to use their cards.

“The ingenuity of Minnesota’s fraudsters seems to know no bounds,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “Calhoun stole hundreds of victim identities and used them to conduct a black-market travel agent fraud scheme—stealing from others to enrich herself. She will now be held accountable in federal court.”

“Criminals who turn to the dark web to buy and sell stolen information are part of a growing threat to our digital security,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “This defendant built a business by exploiting the stolen identities and financial information of over 200 of innocent victims. The anonymity of the internet does not protect offenders from detection. The FBI and our partners will continue to find and expose these schemes and hold offenders accountable.”

Calhoun pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025, in U.S. District Court before Judge John R. Tunheim to one count of access device fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the MSP Airport Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew C. Murphy prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Two Charged in $227M Medicare Fraud Scheme

Source: United States Attorneys General 13

WASHINGTON — An Illinois man and a foreign national were arrested yesterday on criminal charges related to their alleged submission of more than $227 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare.

According to court documents, Syed Murtuza Kablazada, 34, of Arlington Heights, and Syed Mehdi Hussain, 32, of Carol Stream, owned and operated purported medical laboratories that submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare for the reimbursement of over-the-counter COVID-19 test kits allegedly provided to Medicare beneficiaries. The defendants allegedly installed foreign nationals to act as nominee owners at the laboratories to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare for the provision of over-the-counter COVID-19 test kits, with the understanding the nominee owners would flee the United States when they learned that their laboratory was under investigation.

“As alleged, the defendants used straw owners at multiple laboratories to cause the submission of more than $200 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare for COVID-19 test kits,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Health care fraud harms Americans by squandering taxpayer money and diverting limited resources from those who need them most. The Criminal Division will continue to aggressively prosecute these crimes to hold fraudsters accountable, protect victims, and recover financial losses.”

“The overwhelming fraud uncovered in this investigation details a blatant disregard for America’s critical health care program, Medicare, and puts all patients at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta of the FBI Chicago Field Office. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate anyone who abuses the health care system for personal gain and will aggressively pursue justice on behalf of both patients and taxpayers.”

As alleged in the indictment, the defendants rarely provided Covid-19 test kits to Medicare beneficiaries but instead submitted reimbursement claims on behalf of beneficiaries who had not requested COVID-19 test kits, including individuals who were deceased. Further, the defendants allegedly paid a marketing company to provide the names of hundreds of thousands of Medicare beneficiaries that the defendants used to submit fraudulent claims. In total, between September 2022 and June 2023, the defendants’ labs billed Medicare approximately $227 million in fraudulent claims, of which Medicare paid approximately $136 million in reimbursements.

Kablazada and Hussain are both charged by indictment with four counts of health care fraud. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each of the four counts.

The FBI Chicago Field Office and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Andres Q. Almendarez of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Jasmina Vajzovic for the Northern District of Illinois.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI: Security Federal Announces Cash Dividend

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

AIKEN, S.C., May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Security Federal Corporation, parent company of Security Federal Bank, is pleased to announce that a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share will be paid on or about June 15, 2025, to shareholders of record as of May 31, 2025.

This is the one hundred thirty-eighth consecutive quarterly dividend to shareholders since the Bank’s conversion in October of 1987 from a mutual to a stock form of ownership. The dividend was declared as a result of the Bank’s continued profitability.

Security Federal Bank has nineteen full-service branch locations in Aiken, Ballentine, Clearwater, Columbia, Graniteville, Langley, Lexington, North Augusta, Ridge Spring, Wagener and West Columbia, South Carolina and Augusta and Evans, Georgia. A full range of financial services, including trust and investments, are provided by the Bank, and insurance services are provided by the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiary, Security Federal Insurance, Inc.

Security Federal Corporation common stock is traded on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board under the symbol SFDL.

The MIL Network –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: US structural heart occlusion market sees early 2025 growth amid trade uncertainty, says GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

US structural heart occlusion market sees early 2025 growth amid trade uncertainty, says GlobalData

Posted in Medical Devices

The US Structural Heart Occlusion (SHO) market posted a notable 39% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, amid heightened trade policy uncertainty following President Donald Trump’s re-election and the swift introduction of new tariff measures in early 2025, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Trump’s new tariff regime includes a 10% global baseline and a “reciprocal” tariff framework that has unsettled global trade norms. With broad tariffs on strategic sectors and a 90-day pause on some reciprocal tariffs, businesses and healthcare providers are facing a shifting economic landscape.

According to data from GlobalData’s panel of medical facilities, March 2025 revenue growth in the SHO market grew over 50% compared to March 2024, signaling a late-quarter surge in demand.

Thomas Fleming, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The surge in growth may be less about increased patient demand and more about precautionary stockpiling. Hospitals appear to be accelerating procurement of high-value medical devices—such as those used for structural heart occlusion—in anticipation of rising costs and supply disruptions. This response reflects growing concerns about the sustainability of supply chains and the potential financial impact of extended tariff enforcement.”

Fleming continues: “Historically, the US has held a leadership role in the global SHO market, driven by high incidence rates of structural heart conditions and robust innovation in cardiac care. However, the current environment marks a sharp contrast with previous expectations of stable, predictable growth. With global supply chains in flux and trade negotiations still unsettled, market stakeholders are left navigating increased risk.”

Fleming concludes: “While Q1’s growth may appear encouraging at first glance, it underscores the reactive measures health systems are taking in an uncertain policy environment. The long-term effects of these tariffs on device pricing, research investments, and patient outcomes remain to be seen, leaving the sector in a state of cautious watchfulness.”

MIL OSI Economics –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData

Posted in Strategic Intelligence

The global space economy market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from $421.0 billion in 2024 to $511.2 billion in 2029, driven by an increase in the deployment of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, productivity improvements in satellite equipment manufacturing, the competitive launch services landscape, and demand for services around data communications, navigation, and Earth observation. according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report, “The Space Economy” reveals that space applications, which include satellite communications, navigation, and Earth observation, is the largest segment of the space economy and will grow at a CAGR of 2.9% to reach $334.8 billion by 2029.

Falling manufacturing and launch costs, non-Western companies’ entrance into the space economy market, increased space militarization, and new uses for data from space are the other growth drivers of the space economy.

William Rojas, Research Director, Strategic Intelligence at GlobalData, comments: “Different scenarios indicate different growth rates for the space economy market over the coming decade. Issues that may restrict growth include a continuation of the currently challenging global economic environment, Russia’s permanent exit from the space economy, and whether Chinese companies can fulfill the country’s space ambitions. The uncertain financial viability of young satellite and rocket companies and the market’s low return on investment in the short term, combined with the current global economic environment, could lead to a pause in investor confidence in the space economy beyond 2025.”

Future market growth will also depend on the development of reusable rockets and more affordable and frequent ride-sharing services that will increase payload slots on launch missions. The space tourism and colonization subsectors are unlikely to significantly contribute to the overall space economy market until after 2030.

Rojas adds: “Space is no longer the sole domain of governments and incumbent aerospace and defense companies. Technological advances in manufacturing, propulsion, and the launch of rockets have made it much easier and less expensive to venture into space. Those businesses that pursued emerging opportunities have gained a first-mover advantage. SpaceX was the first private company to launch a spacecraft into orbit and return it safely to Earth. Currently, it charges clients $69.5 million per launch of the Falcon 9, its partially reusable medium-lift launch vehicle.”

The sector has become incredibly competitive, with various start-ups developing concepts for cost-effective rockets and satellites to rival the aerospace giants. The large satellite groups continue to consolidate to compete with Starlink and the future Amazon Kuiper mega-constellations. Eutelsat and OneWeb merged in 2022, Viasat acquired Inmarsat in 2023, and SES acquired Intelsat in 2024. This market consolidation will continue.

Rojas continues: ”Satellite broadband communications has become the new strategic imperative impacting national sovereignty, national security, and national digital infrastructure. Countries lagging in terrestrial broadband residential and enterprise infrastructure can use satellite broadband to help fill the gap with advanced countries and attract more foreign direct investment and the digitalization of industry sectors.”

Technological advancements, such as spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for detailed surface mapping and satellite-to-ground optical (laser) technology for ultra-high-speed data transmission, 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), and satellite device-to-device technology, will enhance remote sensing and communications capabilities. Quantum key distribution (QKD) for satellite communications could boost data transmission security for banks, data center companies, government data centers, and corporate data centers. These technologies will all benefit the space economy in 2025.

Rojas concludes: “The space economy has been intertwined with the oil and gas and mining sector for several decades already, and now with the falling communications costs of satellite broadband combined with new technologies, many sectors from agriculture to maritime to emergency and disaster response to media will benefit from the pervasiveness of satellite coverage as well as the new capacity that is coming online, reflecting an increase of over 65X between 2015 and 2025.”

MIL OSI Economics –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Cyberattack could cause M&S’ apparel market share to stall in 2025, says GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

Cyberattack could cause M&S’ apparel market share to stall in 2025, says GlobalData

Posted in Retail

Following Marks & Spencer’s update on the financial implications of its cyberattack:

Pippa Stephens, Senior Apparel Analyst at GlobalData, offers her view:

“Marks & Spencer was one of the biggest winners in the UK apparel market in 2024, with its market share rising 0.4ppts to 5.2%*, the highest it has been since 2017. However, this upward trajectory is now under threat following its cyberattack. It has paused online orders for nearly four weeks already, with online disruption expected to continue until at least July. GlobalData estimates that prior to the attack, M&S was set to take around £250m in online apparel sales between May and July, showing how much the retailer could potentially lose, though some of this spend will likely shift to stores. Alongside reduced availability in its food division, and anticipated increased stock management costs, M&S also expects the attack to have a £300m impact on group operating profit in its FY2025/26.

“Even once M&S has ensured the security of its systems, and starts taking online orders again, the impact of this event will be long-lasting. While the retailer has taken swift action, and been extremely transparent with consumers, the stealing of customer data during the cyberattack could undermine its hard-won gains in brand reputation and customer loyalty. Moreover, it will be left with excess seasonal stock due to the halt of its online operations, likely impacting its margins as it will be forced to implement more discounts. Therefore, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities retailers face in an increasingly digital landscape, where a single breach can have far-reaching consequences.

“With the retailers’ recent impressive growth down to its transformation into a more fashion-forward retailer, appealing to younger demographics through more contemporary own-brand designs, as well as partnerships with popular brands such as Nobody’s Child and Adidas, it must now double down on this more than ever to regain appeal. It should also continue to showcase its commitment to quality as consumers prioritise the value for money of their purchases, to deter them from shifting spend elsewhere, and keep investing in its online platform once it is back up and running, to capitalise on the channel’s ongoing outperformance.”

*Data is from GlobalData’s Retail Intelligence Center. Market shares are calculated from UK apparel sales for the calendar year, including sales tax. Shares are as of May 2025.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood, Lecturer in Sustainable Futures, University of St Andrews

Africa has 38 coastal and island nations. Their maritime industries – including energy, tourism, maritime transport, shipping and fishing – play a crucial role in developing these nations.

Key to harnessing these resources are Africa’s maritime boundaries – lines on a map showing the legal divisions of the ocean between neighbouring coastal states.

Some of these boundaries were created by colonial powers and kept after independence. Their purpose was to achieve territorial security and ensure the exclusive exploitation of resources and to maintain navigational freedom.

But Africa’s maritime boundaries sometimes lead to conflict, prevent cooperation on resource management and create room for maritime crimes, like illegal fishing. This is because they are often contested. Countries have overlapping claims and varying interests in resource exploration. This is common in maritime areas rich in oil, gas and fisheries, and deep seabed resources.

In our recent paper we found that using international law to resolve maritime boundaries does not always bring peace, especially when it results in ceding the disputed area to one party. It can result in animosity between countries and breed room for continued distrust among peoples.

Today, Africa has the most unresolved maritime boundary disputes in the world and the lowest number of settled boundary disputes.

As more ocean resources are discovered, climate change may heighten disputes. Rising sea levels can gradually submerge maritime zones, potentially affecting the baselines from which these zones are measured. This could create uncertainty or trigger new conflicts.

In our paper, we suggest a collaborative approach to resolving maritime disputes. We hope that this will help prevent many African countries from missing out on the benefits of their oceans.

Price of disputed boundaries

Disagreements over maritime boundaries can have many negative effects.

Research has shown that criminal activities tend to increase in disputed maritime boundaries. For instance, illegal fishers are aware that because there is dispute over a border, there will also be enforcement gaps.

Countries in dispute will also not work together and will not be sending patrols to contested areas. For instance, in 2016, a Chinese vessel escaped into Sierra Leone to avoid capture. When Guinean naval forces boarded the vessel for enforcement, there was an exchange of fire and 11 Guineans were detained by Sierra Leone.

When boundaries are disputed, it also means that local fishers are likely to encroach into neighbouring waters, often unknowingly, in search of better catches. Given the significance of fisheries to coastal livelihoods and the extent of depletion, this threatens peace and security. It fuels tension between communities and countries over access to dwindling resources.

Disagreements over maritime boundaries also diminish maritime security cooperation, complicate joint patrols, and divert attention from tackling shared threats such as piracy.

Colonialism never ended

Unfortunately, resolving maritime boundary disputes is complicated by a principle in international law known as uti possidetis juris – “as you possess under law”.

The principle says that when countries argue over borders, international law, built around colonial-era boundaries, is used to decide who gets what. This creates a “winner-takes-all” approach – one side gains control over the disputed area and resources. International courts, like the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, follow the provisions of law reinforcing uti possidetis.

Our examination of maritime boundary disputes in west and central Africa found that the principle of uti possidetis juris had failed to alleviate maritime boundary tensions. In some cases, it has exacerbated them.

One example is a maritime dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria decided in 2002. The dispute was over who had control of Bakassi, an oil-rich region, and its maritime frontier.

The uti possidetis juris principle upheld the lines drawn at the time of Nigeria’s independence and resulted in the ceding of Bakassi to Cameroon. The impact of the resolution lingers. To date, thousands of displaced Bakassi people that returned to Nigeria have yet to be resettled and reintegrated. Disputes also continue between fishers from Nigeria and Cameroonian law enforcement agents. In extreme cases, it results in death, like the alleged killing of 97 Nigerian fishers by Cameroonian marine police.

The way forward

In our paper, we recommend that courts, tribunals or disputing countries consider joint management agreements to resolve maritime disputes. Under such agreements, countries share and manage disputed maritime resources.

These agreements will allow for the joint management of shared resources. It will also encourage cooperation and collaboration in other areas, such as joint operations to combat illegal fishing and piracy. While international courts may apply uti possidetis juris as required by law, countries should be encouraged to negotiate special arrangements – such as joint development agreements – as part of the resolution process. Especially in cases where livelihoods and longstanding community ties risk being disrupted by unilateral decisions or the ceding of disputed areas to one party.

While not perfect, this approach has already improved cooperation on security and resource use at sea. It has worked in places like Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire also have a joint management framework in place for their shared boundaries to avoid future disputes.

Prolonged boundary disputes only enable criminal actors to exploit Africa’s resources, undermining collective progress. A shift towards collaborative solutions is essential for achieving a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent.

Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood receives funding from the PEW Charitable Trust and the Research Council of Norway. The St Andrews Research Internship Scheme (StARIS) supported the initial peer-reviewed research.

Elizabeth Nwarueze does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them – https://theconversation.com/colonial-era-borders-create-conflict-in-africas-oceans-how-to-resolve-them-248577

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Alford Applauds House Passage of Republicans’ One Big, Beautiful Bill
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

Alford Applauds House Passage of Republicans’ One Big, Beautiful Bill

Washington, May 22, 2025
Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) released the following statement after House Republicans passed the One Big, Beautiful Bill:

Watch Congressman Alford’s remarks on the House floor in support of the legislation here or by clicking the image above.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, Republicans are one step closer to enacting the generational change demanded by the American people,” said Congressman Alford. “The One Big, Beautiful Bill will reset the direction of our great nation on behalf of hardworking Americans—not bureaucrats, special interests, or illegal immigrants. Republicans are taking bold action because the moment demands it. This bill is a win for the Fourth District, Missouri, and all of America. It’s a shame every single House Democrat voted for the largest tax increase in American history, open borders, and an uncertain financial future for Medicaid.”

Background:

Republicans’ One Big, Beautiful Bill:
- Stops the largest tax increase in American history, while ending taxes on tips and overtime and providing relief for seniors—allowing hardworking Missourians to keep more of their hard-earned money.
- Strengthens Medicaid for those who need it most by eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse, removing more than a million illegal immigrants from the program, and ensuring able bodied adults with no dependents are pursuing work.
- Permanently securing our southern border with funding for wall construction, new border agents, and additional security measures.
- Strengthens and restores the integrity of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to ensure it is a temporary life vest for the needy—not a lifestyle.
- Modernizes air traffic control, making our skies safer and air travel more efficient.
- Boosts defense funding to ensure the U.S. military remains the most lethal on earth.
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MIL OSI USA News –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint Slams House Passage of Republican Budget

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

Washington, D.C. – Early this morning, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), member of the House Budget Committee, released the below statement after the passage of the Republican budget that guts Medicaid, food assistance and other critical programs that Americans rely on.

The Republican plan includes over $800 billion in cuts that would decimate Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. These cuts will put rural hospitals at risk of immediate closure. It would kick nearly 14 million Americans off their health insurance and throw at least 3 million people off food assistance, all to bankroll tax breaks for billionaires and massive corporations. The bill passed the House with all Democrats voting no.

“A budget is a reflection of our values: what we view as the most important and who we view as the most important. And it’s not you and your family or me and mine. It’s about propping up billionaires and kicking the rest of us in the teeth while they do it,” said Rep. Balint. “This bill comes after the poorest among us to give to the richest. Americans are already struggling to put food on the table, afford for medications, and pay rent in an economy rigged against working people. This bill stands to make that reality much more painful.”

“And this massive wealth transfer, passed in the middle of the night, will only exacerbate the already obscene wealth inequality in this country. I was sent to Congress to fight for the needs of working people, to stand up for the rights of every Vermonter and every American. I voted ‘hell no’ on this devastating budget because lives are on the line. Americans deserve so much better than this awful bill. I promise to keep fighting. It’s not over yet.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann, Colleagues Invest in Land Grant Universities and Agriculture Innovation
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Kim Schrier (WA-08), alongside Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI), reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral AuGmenting Research and Educational Sites to Ensure Agriculture Remains Cutting-edge and Helpful (AG RESEARCH) Act. The Ag Research Act bolsters federal investments in land-grant universities, institutions, and facilities like Kansas State University and Haskell University that conduct food and agricultural research.

“Over the years, land-grant universities have surpassed their original vision of agricultural education and now conduct cutting-edge agricultural research that supports food security around the globe,” said Rep. Mann. “The U.S. sees a $20 return on every dollar we invest in agricultural research, yet funding for these institutions has declined in real dollars over the past two decades and handcuffed their ability to maintain up-to-date facilities. Our bill supports agricultural research, development, and innovation at these land grant universities and puts taxpayer dollars in places with a guaranteed return on investment. When we make strong investments in food and agricultural research, we invest in the next generation of America, and in our food security and national security.”

“Our agriculture industry employs thousands of hardworking Washingtonians and is vital to our nation’s long-term strength, security, and prosperity. In the face of a changing climate, tariffs, input costs, and increased pressure on our food supply, we must support our farmers in any way we can,” said Rep. Schrier, M.D. “Research institutions are essential for our farmers’ success – they discover solutions to agriculture’s most pressing challenges and are fundamental to successful food production and soil health. For far too long, these institutions have been underfunded, putting us at risk of falling behind the rest of the world. My bill will put the necessary investment into these institutions and provide much-needed assistance for our farmers.”

“For American farmers and ranchers to continue producing the best food, fuel and fiber in the world, we must maintain the best research institutions in the world,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation will support the work at institutions like Kansas State University by allowing them to modernize their facilities and continue a long history of innovation and supporting the agricultural industry.”

“Agriculture research institutions are crucial in supporting farming communities and driving innovation in the agriculture industry,” said Sen. Hirono. “Decades of underinvestment have left many of these institutions across our country with significant maintenance backlogs, and this legislation will provide much-needed financial support to enable agriculture schools and research facilities to make the critical upgrades and updates they need. I’m glad to join my colleagues in reintroducing the AG RESEARCH Act to support these institutions and strengthen our agricultural communities.”

A 2015 study reported that there was an estimated total of $8.4 billion in deferred maintenance at U.S. schools of agriculture. A 2021 reportconfirmed the effects of the insufficient funding to address maintenance backlogs at these facilities, reporting that 69% of these agricultural school buildings were at the end of their useful lives and that the cost of addressing deferred maintenance grew to $11.5 billion.

To address the deferred maintenance of these facilities, the AG RESEARCH Act will do the following:

Provide $500 million in mandatory funding per fiscal year over five years in grants;
- Require a 1-to-1 match of grant funds unless waived by the Secretary of Agriculture;
- Direct that grants be distributed equitably to the maximum extent practicable; and
- Limit grant funds awarded to any one state to no more than 20 percent
The AG RESEARCH Act is endorsed by Kansas State University, Haskell University, and the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU).

“The AG RESEARCH Act is an investment in America’s agricultural competitiveness,” said Kansas State University President Linton. “As our research infrastructure ages, we risk falling behind global competitors. Modern facilities at land-grant universities drive economic growth across the nation, from rural farms to urban agribusiness, while developing solutions that keep American agriculture at the forefront of innovation. This legislation will help transform outdated labs into economic engines that attract talent, create jobs and maintain our nation’s leadership in the global food system.”

“Investment in the Research Facilities Act will be transformative, and we applaud Senators Moran and Hirono, as well as Representatives Mann and Schrier, for their commitment to ensuring our agricultural scientists have the tools they need to spur the next generation of agricultural innovation,” said Dr. Doug Steele, Vice President of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources at APLU.

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For more information about Representative Mann, visit: www.mann.house.gov

MIL OSI USA News –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New investment in regeneration boosts growth and jobs in Port Talbot
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release

New investment in regeneration boosts growth and jobs in Port Talbot

English

Cymraeg

More than £20 million in funding announced from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board
More than £20 million announced for regeneration projects in the Port Talbot area.

More than £20 million in funding from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board for three local regeneration schemes.

This major investment will support more than 270 jobs in steel community.

Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board has announced more than £70m funding in past nine months.

A new investment of £21.2 million for regeneration projects will support more than 270 jobs and see the creation of additional construction jobs in the Port Talbot area following the planned announcement today (22 May) of the latest release of funding from the Tata Steel /Port Talbot Transition Board.

Pending endorsement by the Transition Board when it meets today, funding of £21.2 million will be allocated for three more regeneration projects in the Port Talbot area, which will bring an estimated £119 million in GVA benefits to the local economy.

The three projects are:

Creation of an Advanced Manufacturing Production Facility (AMPF) and National Net Zero Skills Centre of Excellence Harbourside, Port Talbot

£12.5 million to help create a £35 million production and training centre to drive forward low carbon and net zero skills training. The AMPF will make specialist equipment and test products, upscaling advanced manufacturing in the region and is also receiving funding from the Swansea Bay City Deal.

AMPF is one of three projects contributing to the establishment of an Innovation District in the Harbourside which will also include the previously announced South Wales Industrial Transition from Carbon Hub (SWITCH) project and the development of an Innovation Park.

AMPF, with the National Net Zero Centre of Excellence, will support 170 jobs and engage with 150 companies to generate a Gross Value Added (GVA) of £89.1 million. There will also be additional construction jobs created by this project.

The National Net Zero Skills Centre of Excellence will provide the facilities and capabilities to train and develop the workforce needed for the Celtic Freeport, Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) and other investment opportunities in the future.

Redevelopment of Metal Box and Sandfields Business Centre (Briton Ferry and Port Talbot)

These two projects will convert and expand two existing buildings to provide high quality accommodation to enable tenants to expand and improve access to new business units, encouraging and supporting start-up businesses and those seeking to grow. There is significant demand for business space in Neath Port Talbot which this funding will help address.

A total of £8.7m in Transition Board funding will fully fund the projects, £6.9 million for Metal Box and £1.8 million for Sandfields Business Centre.

Together, it is estimated that the redevelopments will support 101 jobs and create a net additional GVA of £29.9m by 2035.

The £21.2 million investment announced today is the latest from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board, chaired by Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens and including representatives from the UK and Welsh Governments, local authorities, unions and business.

Since its first release of funding in August 2024, it has announced more than £70 million to fund skills training for workers and regeneration projects as Tata Steel carries out its transition to electric arc steelmaking.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

We said we would back the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families and businesses dependent on Tata Steel.

This latest investment means more than £70 million has been announced by the Transition Board in just nine months, delivering on our promise to the community.

The plans for the Celtic Freeport, development of floating offshore wind, preservation of steelmaking in the town and significant funding for regeneration all mean there is a bright future for Port Talbot.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS said:

We remain committed to ensuring those who have been impacted by the Tata transition, including the workforce, supply chain and local community are supported not only in the short term but well into the future.

I am pleased this latest investment of Tata Transition funding will complement City Deal funding and unlock valuable job opportunities, particularly those linked to renewable energy and high value manufacturing.

Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt said:

As we work closely together in meeting the challenges of decarbonisation, it is vital that we also support local people and businesses to maximise the opportunities it offers.

The investment announced today will provide a significant boost to our ongoing work with partners to promote economic growth and to provide people with the skills needed for the industries of the future.

In the coming months, there will be millions more in funding allocated to growth and regeneration projects in Port Talbot, ensuring that secure well-paid jobs are available in the local area following Tata Steel’s Transition to greener steelmaking.

The UK Government has committed £2.5 billion of investment to rebuild the UK’s steel industry for decades to come as it decarbonises.

This is in addition to the £500 million allocated to Tata Steel in Port Talbot for an electric arc furnace, which recently received planning approval.

ENDS

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Published 22 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Forbes University Rankings: HSE University Has the Best Reputation Among Employers

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

On May 22, Forbes Education presented an updated rating 100 best universities in Russia for 2025. The Higher School of Economics retained 2nd place, establishing itself as the university with the highest level of reputation among employers. The top 20 included 12 Moscow universities, three universities from St. Petersburg, two from Tatarstan, and one educational institution each from the Sverdlovsk, Novosibirsk, and Tomsk regions.

Forbes Education continues to monitor dynamic changes in the field of higher education, identifying universities that demonstrate high standards of quality and demand. In the new, seventh, ranking of the best universities in Russia, the assessment was carried out according to 17 different criteria, grouped into key metrics: quality of networking, reputation among employers, international image, academic environment. The Forbes factor was also taken into account, thanks to which universities received additional points if among their graduates there were participants in the Russian Forbes list or winners of the rating “30 under 30” 2024.

This year, HSE retained its 2nd place in the list, ahead of Moscow State University by 0.7 points and confirming its status as the university with the highest reputation among employers. The leaders in individual metrics were also MIPT (the best university in terms of admission quality), Moscow State University (the leader in the category “International Reputation”), and Innopolis University (the winner in terms of quality of the academic environment).

In total, 564 higher education institutions were included in the long list. The analysis was conducted based on data from the Monitoring of the Activities of Educational Organizations of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, the results of a survey the best employers in the country and information from open sources.

To analyze the reputation of universities among employers, a survey was conducted in large companies included in the list of the best employers in Russia. During the survey, universities were identified whose graduates are considered the most qualified and are ready to be hired first. The companies also indicated universities that, in their opinion, provide the best quality of training for specialists in such areas as economics, information technology, technical sciences, marketing and communications, natural sciences, humanities and creative industries. The survey covered 43 industries and different regions of Russia.

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 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Europol helps disrupt the world’s most significant malware threat

Source: European Union 2

Europol’s cybercrime unit has worked with Microsoft to disrupt Lumma Stealer, the world’s greatest infostealer threat. Earlier this year over 394 000 Windows computers were infected by the Lumma malware, which harvested credentials, financial data, and personal information from its victims.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Votes to Restore Fiscal Sanity in the Federal Government
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

Headline: Newhouse Votes to Restore Fiscal Sanity in the Federal Government

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon passage of H.R. 1, the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act.

“House Republicans have delivered on our commitment to permanently extend tax cuts for the middle class and small businesses while eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government.

One of my top priorities throughout this process has been maintaining investments in nuclear energy to keep energy prices low throughout our region. Central Washington is home to a rich nuclear history, and I am proud to have led the fight to ensure our tax code allows for continued investments in our nuclear fleet, including the small modular reactor project in the Tri-Cities.

We have made real, common-sense reforms to strengthen the integrity of Medicaid, protecting the program for low-income families, seniors, and those with disabilities. By implementing work requirements for able bodied adults without dependents, and preventing those here illegally from accessing the program, we are protecting Medicaid for those who truly need it most.

As a Member of the House Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to support meaningful reforms to SNAP while investing in the farm safety net to deliver much needed assistance to rural America. This package more than doubles our trade promotion programs to allow Washington state agriculture exports to reach new markets around the globe.

This legislation supports families and businesses across Central Washington by delivering over $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction to get our fiscal house in order. There is still work to be done, and as this legislation moves to the Senate, I will continue to advocate for the people of Washington’s Fourth District, protect essential services for those who truly need them, and keep taxes low for the middle class and small businesses in our region.”

Background:

House Republicans passed a budget resolution in April with instructions for committees to produce legislation that provides tax relief for working families and small businesses, reins in reckless federal spending, unleashes energy dominance, and makes America safe again.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers on those priorities in a fiscally responsible manner, with the final net deficit reduction number above $1.5 trillion, marking the largest deficit reduction in nearly 30 years. These savings will begin immediately, with $111.8 billion in net deficit reduction in the first year after enactment. The legislation:

Delivers an economy that is pro-growth, pro-worker, pro-family, and pro-business:
- Makes the 2017 tax cuts permanent, preventing the average taxpayer from seeing a 22% tax hike.
- Removes taxes on tips, overtime pay, car loan interest, and provides additional tax relief for seniors.
- Supports small businesses and Made-in-America investments through immediate 100 percent expensing, incentives for new manufacturing facilities, research and development immediate amortization, and interest expense deductions.
Provides over $140 billion – the largest border security investment in history – to secure our borders and keep Americans safe:
- Allows for the completion of 701 miles of primary wall and construction of 900 miles of river barriers.
- Funds at least one million annual removals, 10,000 new Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel, and detention capacity sufficient to maintain an average daily population of at least 100,000 aliens.
- Supports the hiring and training of 3,000 new Border Patrol agents, 5,000 new Office of Field Operations customs officers, and other urgently needed personnel.
Restores integrity to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by requiring states to shoulder a share of the benefit costs, preventing states from manipulating SNAP eligibility and benefit calculations, and restoring SNAP work requirements for able-bodied adults without young dependents.

Strengthens Medicaid for Americans who truly need it, while rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse:
- Establishes commonsense work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents and stops new money laundering gimmicks like provider taxes and State Directed Payments.
- Strengthens program integrity measures that protect Medicaid resources for the most vulnerable.
- Closes loopholes that let illegal immigrants enroll in Medicaid and reduces funding to states that prioritize Medicaid coverage of illegal immigrants.
Unleashes American energy dominance, ensuring affordable energy for families and creating jobs across the country:
- Allows advanced nuclear facilities to utilize the Production Tax Credit (45Y) and Investment Tax Credit (48E) while phasing out the credits for wind and solar and maintains the Nuclear Production Tax Credit (45U) through 2028.
- Reinstates quarterly onshore oil and gas lease sales and mandates at least 30 lease sales in the Gulf of America over the next 15 years and six in the Cook Inlet in south-central Alaska.
- Resumes leasing for energy production in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and coal leasing on federal lands.
- Streamlines the permitting process for energy infrastructure.
Makes major reforms to streamline student loan options, support student success, and save taxpayer money.

Invests nearly $144 billion to modernize our military and strengthen national defense.

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MIL OSI USA News –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gosar Lauds Passage of One Big Beautiful Bill

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

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-09), issued the following statement after voting in favor of passage of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

“Following the four disastrous years of the failed and corrupt Biden administration that created historic inflation, destroyed our economy and welcomed nearly 20 million illegal aliens into our country, I am very pleased to have voted in favor of legislation advancing President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

This bill will secure our southern border and empower border patrol agents to deport the millions of illegal aliens welcomed into our country by Joe Biden. As a border state, Arizonans know all too well the heavy toll that Biden’s open border policy has taken on our great state. Crime has ravaged our neighborhoods, deadly drugs, especially fentanyl, have destroyed our families and our communities are withering under the economic strain on public resources needed to combat Biden’s border invasion.

Importantly, the One Big Beautiful Bill also strengthens and protects Medicaid by first helping those most in need of assistance – expectant mothers, our seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families while ending taxpayer-funded free health care for 1.4 million illegal aliens.

The bill eliminates taxes on tips and overtime, slashes taxes on Social Security for seniors, reduces wasteful spending by $1.6 trillion, updates our air traffic control system, halts taxpayer funds going to abortion clinics, ensures our military’s readiness and unlocks America’s full energy potential.

Lastly, the One Big Beautiful Bill cuts taxes for families and hard-working Arizonans. My constituents voted overwhelmingly for President Trump last November and their message was resoundingly clear: do not raise our taxes! Without this much-needed legislation, the average taxpayer in my district would see a 23% tax hike. To put that into perspective, a family of four making a median income of $75,000 would see a $1,555 tax increase. That is worth about seven weeks of groceries for my constituents. There is not a snowball’s chance in hell that I will ever to vote to raise taxes on hardworking families in Arizona.

With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, families can expect to receive $7,800 to $13,300 more in annual pay. I look forward to the Senate quickly passing and President Trump signing into law this historic legislation, so Americans can begin receiving the much-need relief this bill ensures,” concluded Congressman Paul Gosar.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Two Charged in $227M Medicare Fraud Scheme

Source: US State Government of Utah

WASHINGTON — An Illinois man and a foreign national were arrested yesterday on criminal charges related to their alleged submission of more than $227 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare.

According to court documents, Syed Murtuza Kablazada, 34, of Arlington Heights, and Syed Mehdi Hussain, 32, of Carol Stream, owned and operated purported medical laboratories that submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare for the reimbursement of over-the-counter COVID-19 test kits allegedly provided to Medicare beneficiaries. The defendants allegedly installed foreign nationals to act as nominee owners at the laboratories to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare for the provision of over-the-counter COVID-19 test kits, with the understanding the nominee owners would flee the United States when they learned that their laboratory was under investigation.

“As alleged, the defendants used straw owners at multiple laboratories to cause the submission of more than $200 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare for COVID-19 test kits,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Health care fraud harms Americans by squandering taxpayer money and diverting limited resources from those who need them most. The Criminal Division will continue to aggressively prosecute these crimes to hold fraudsters accountable, protect victims, and recover financial losses.”

“The overwhelming fraud uncovered in this investigation details a blatant disregard for America’s critical health care program, Medicare, and puts all patients at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta of the FBI Chicago Field Office. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate anyone who abuses the health care system for personal gain and will aggressively pursue justice on behalf of both patients and taxpayers.”

As alleged in the indictment, the defendants rarely provided Covid-19 test kits to Medicare beneficiaries but instead submitted reimbursement claims on behalf of beneficiaries who had not requested COVID-19 test kits, including individuals who were deceased. Further, the defendants allegedly paid a marketing company to provide the names of hundreds of thousands of Medicare beneficiaries that the defendants used to submit fraudulent claims. In total, between September 2022 and June 2023, the defendants’ labs billed Medicare approximately $227 million in fraudulent claims, of which Medicare paid approximately $136 million in reimbursements.

Kablazada and Hussain are both charged by indictment with four counts of health care fraud. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each of the four counts.

The FBI Chicago Field Office and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Andres Q. Almendarez of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Jasmina Vajzovic for the Northern District of Illinois.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI: YourOwn Partners with Hoseki to Verify Bitcoin Ownership, Redefining Financial Identity

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YourOwn has partnered with Hoseki to launch integrated Bitcoin verification within its financial identity wallet, enabling users to prove and utilize crypto holdings alongside traditional assets. This innovation bridges traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi), establishing a unified, verifiable, and secure financial identity.

By embedding Hoseki’s proof-of-ownership service, YourOwn empowers individuals and institutions to manage traditional and digital assets on a single, trusted platform. Bitcoin is no longer siloed—it’s treated as a core financial primitive, ready for lending, planning, and tax workflows.

“This is a turning point for financial identity,” said Sam Abbassi, CEO of Hoseki. “Together with YourOwn, we’re delivering infrastructure that makes digital assets verifiable, usable, and powerful within traditional finance.”

Pioneering Financial Identity

YourOwn lets users consolidate bank accounts, brokerage portfolios, tax records, and now verified crypto holdings in one encrypted wallet—ready to share with lenders, advisors, or institutions in seconds. This integration responds to a shift in expectations: investors increasingly demand that digital assets be as usable as any other part of their balance sheet.

With over 10,000 downloads and a growing marketplace—including Coinbase, Gemini, H&R Block, Trust & Will, and Consumers Credit Union—YourOwn is becoming essential infrastructure for the financial ecosystem.

Key Capabilities

Unified View Across Assets
Aggregate banking, investment, tax, and crypto data in real time with secure APIs and user-controlled sharing.

Bitcoin-Backed Lending
Verified crypto holdings become trusted collateral for faster, better-priced loans.

Holistic Financial Planning
Advisors gain a full portfolio view, enabling tax-smart strategies and wealth plans.

Institutional-Grade Security
Built on zero-trust architecture and BIP standards to meet open finance requirements.

Why It Matters

As trusted institutions offer crypto services, verifiable ownership is becoming table stakes. Hoseki’s verification service—now live inside YourOwn—delivers cryptographic attestations with no screenshots or spreadsheets.

About YourOwn

YourOwn is a next-generation financial identity platform that lets users control and share verified data with banks, lenders, and advisors—securely and seamlessly. We offer subscription and embedded solutions for financial institutions and wallet providers. YourOwn is a U.S. veteran-owned business.

About Hoseki

Hoseki is building a more connected financial world where Bitcoin is the global monetary standard and proving reserves is secure and seamless. As the industry leader in crypto asset verification, Hoseki provides white-label APIs for real-time proof-of-ownership to institutions and consumers across regulated workflows.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/88f762f2-675e-4d1a-aa8b-c5ccf3017cda

The MIL Network –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood, Lecturer in Sustainable Futures, University of St Andrews

Africa has 38 coastal and island nations. Their maritime industries – including energy, tourism, maritime transport, shipping and fishing – play a crucial role in developing these nations.

Key to harnessing these resources are Africa’s maritime boundaries – lines on a map showing the legal divisions of the ocean between neighbouring coastal states.

Some of these boundaries were created by colonial powers and kept after independence. Their purpose was to achieve territorial security and ensure the exclusive exploitation of resources and to maintain navigational freedom.

But Africa’s maritime boundaries sometimes lead to conflict, prevent cooperation on resource management and create room for maritime crimes, like illegal fishing. This is because they are often contested. Countries have overlapping claims and varying interests in resource exploration. This is common in maritime areas rich in oil, gas and fisheries, and deep seabed resources.

In our recent paper we found that using international law to resolve maritime boundaries does not always bring peace, especially when it results in ceding the disputed area to one party. It can result in animosity between countries and breed room for continued distrust among peoples.

Today, Africa has the most unresolved maritime boundary disputes in the world and the lowest number of settled boundary disputes.

As more ocean resources are discovered, climate change may heighten disputes. Rising sea levels can gradually submerge maritime zones, potentially affecting the baselines from which these zones are measured. This could create uncertainty or trigger new conflicts.

In our paper, we suggest a collaborative approach to resolving maritime disputes. We hope that this will help prevent many African countries from missing out on the benefits of their oceans.

Price of disputed boundaries

Disagreements over maritime boundaries can have many negative effects.

Research has shown that criminal activities tend to increase in disputed maritime boundaries. For instance, illegal fishers are aware that because there is dispute over a border, there will also be enforcement gaps.

Countries in dispute will also not work together and will not be sending patrols to contested areas. For instance, in 2016, a Chinese vessel escaped into Sierra Leone to avoid capture. When Guinean naval forces boarded the vessel for enforcement, there was an exchange of fire and 11 Guineans were detained by Sierra Leone.

When boundaries are disputed, it also means that local fishers are likely to encroach into neighbouring waters, often unknowingly, in search of better catches. Given the significance of fisheries to coastal livelihoods and the extent of depletion, this threatens peace and security. It fuels tension between communities and countries over access to dwindling resources.

Disagreements over maritime boundaries also diminish maritime security cooperation, complicate joint patrols, and divert attention from tackling shared threats such as piracy.

Colonialism never ended

Unfortunately, resolving maritime boundary disputes is complicated by a principle in international law known as uti possidetis juris – “as you possess under law”.

The principle says that when countries argue over borders, international law, built around colonial-era boundaries, is used to decide who gets what. This creates a “winner-takes-all” approach – one side gains control over the disputed area and resources. International courts, like the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, follow the provisions of law reinforcing uti possidetis.

Our examination of maritime boundary disputes in west and central Africa found that the principle of uti possidetis juris had failed to alleviate maritime boundary tensions. In some cases, it has exacerbated them.

One example is a maritime dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria decided in 2002. The dispute was over who had control of Bakassi, an oil-rich region, and its maritime frontier.

The uti possidetis juris principle upheld the lines drawn at the time of Nigeria’s independence and resulted in the ceding of Bakassi to Cameroon. The impact of the resolution lingers. To date, thousands of displaced Bakassi people that returned to Nigeria have yet to be resettled and reintegrated. Disputes also continue between fishers from Nigeria and Cameroonian law enforcement agents. In extreme cases, it results in death, like the alleged killing of 97 Nigerian fishers by Cameroonian marine police.

The way forward

In our paper, we recommend that courts, tribunals or disputing countries consider joint management agreements to resolve maritime disputes. Under such agreements, countries share and manage disputed maritime resources.

These agreements will allow for the joint management of shared resources. It will also encourage cooperation and collaboration in other areas, such as joint operations to combat illegal fishing and piracy. While international courts may apply uti possidetis juris as required by law, countries should be encouraged to negotiate special arrangements – such as joint development agreements – as part of the resolution process. Especially in cases where livelihoods and longstanding community ties risk being disrupted by unilateral decisions or the ceding of disputed areas to one party.

While not perfect, this approach has already improved cooperation on security and resource use at sea. It has worked in places like Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire also have a joint management framework in place for their shared boundaries to avoid future disputes.

Prolonged boundary disputes only enable criminal actors to exploit Africa’s resources, undermining collective progress. A shift towards collaborative solutions is essential for achieving a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent.

– Colonial-era borders create conflict in Africa’s oceans – how to resolve them
– https://theconversation.com/colonial-era-borders-create-conflict-in-africas-oceans-how-to-resolve-them-248577

MIL OSI Africa –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £530 million investment prospectus launched
Source: Scotland – City of Perth

Presented to a high-profile audience of government representatives, private investors, developers, and funding bodies, the prospectus outlines eight transformative projects that collectively support Perth & Kinross’s ambitions to lead in sustainability and clean economic growth.

Spanning a 15-year period from 2025 to 2040, the portfolio covers market-ready opportunities, and longer-term investor-led partnerships in energy and net zero, the circular economy, food and drink, light industrial, travel and logistics, leisure and retail, accommodation in tourism and residential.

Featured investments include:
- Eco Innovation Park at Perth West
- Perth City Heat Network
- Strategic Energy Partnership
- Advanced Plastics Sorting and Upcycling Facility
- Binn Eco Park
- Northfield Business Park
- Cultural Quarter (Perth City Centre) Regeneration Project
- Mill Quarter (Perth City Centre) Regeneration Project
Perth & Kinross Council Leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “Over the past six years, Perth and Kinross has demonstrated its commitment to building a modern, resilient, and inclusive economy through an impressive £600 million public investment programme. This has supported essential infrastructure, cultural development, and growth in key economic sectors.

“Now, the Investment Prospectus sets out a clear intention to build on these strong foundations, by providing an exciting platform for investor and developer-led partnerships, both domestically and internationally.

“I believe the diversity and ambition of the projects on offer present a compelling case for doing business in Perth and Kinross. Alongside transformative, clean growth opportunities directly impacting our net zero ambitions, there are also traditional, property-based propositions designed to encourage and support existing business relocation into the area.”

The £530 million proposition complements the Council’s existing £600 million+ investment in infrastructure, key sectors, and the arts, creating a powerful springboard for future growth.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the presentation of the report on the Development Coordination Office at the ECOSOC Segment on Operational Activities for Development [as delivered]

Source: United Nations secretary general

Thank you very much your Excellency – the Vice-President of ECOSOC – Excellencies, colleagues,

We come together today following a hallmark year for the Resident Coordinator system and entities across the UN Sustainable Development Group.

As we heard from the Secretary-General yesterday in the presentation of his report, this year has pressed the development system – and we know the year ahead will be ever more testing.

Six years into the repositioning, we have a resident coordinator system that is delivering for those we serve. And we know that this support is needed now more than ever.

And that the UN system needs to come together in a coordinated, cohesive manner to provide this support.

Around the world, people are confronting a convergence of crises. Entrenched conflict, economic instability, persistent poverty and inequalities, constrained multilateralism and declining support for development funding and financing.

This is precisely the moment in which we must recommit to accelerated action that delivers the Sustainable Development Goals for people and planet – as guided by the roadmap that the 2024 QCPR has set.

The UN development system, with the leadership of Resident Coordinators, is redoubling its efforts to align with Member States’ expectations, while finding ways to do so more effectively.

I am grateful for the leadership that Member States have shown in continuing to guide our work.

Excellencies,

My annual report tells the story of a UN development system constantly in motion — resilient, adaptive, ambitious— and firmly anchored in country needs.

UN teams are delivering – in countries beset by crisis or in communities facing down persistent poverty and inequalities.

In 2024, 98 per cent of host governments reported that the UN’s activities, as articulated in the Cooperation Frameworks, were closely aligned with national priorities.

93 per cent of host Governments indicated that RCs and UNCTs provided support for changes in national policies and regulatory frameworks to advance all the SDGs. A 7 per cent increase over the previous year.

90 per cent of contributing countries agree that the RC system has scaled up collective action for the SDGs.

And 84 per cent agree that the RC system helped improve coherence in UN activities and in reducing the duplication of efforts.

These are more than numbers. They represent a shift in how we work together as a UN system.

And the RC system is the engine of this accelerated support to countries.

First, Resident Coordinators are leveraging national and global processes to boost systems transformation for SDG acceleration.

Cooperation Frameworks increasingly embed integrated approaches on the priorities agreed with Governments. They are maximizing interventions across multiple SDGs to amplify the impact and ground international commitments in countries.

RCs and UN country teams spearheaded over 100 national initiatives with Governments to leverage the Summit of the Future to accelerate SDG implementation.

Second, from civil society to financial institutions, Resident Coordinators are convening the partnerships that scale impact and sustain results.

Notably, collaboration with international financial institutions is growing — with 73 per cent of UN country teams reporting active engagement with IFIs.

90 per cent of host governments reported that Resident Coordinators have helped to leverage partnerships to support national SDG efforts.

Third, Resident Coordinators play a key role in channeling global and country-level sources of funding that incentivize joint work and unlocking financing for SDG solutions.

The Joint SDG Fund has been the main muscle behind the Resident Coordinators’ efforts to foster joint, transformative and coherent programming.

In 2024, the Fund supported RCs and UN teams to initiate 136 new joint programmes across 90 countries in transformative areas such as food systems, energy, digitalization, jobs, and social protection. Cumulatively, the fund has reached over 206 million people and catalyzed $1.6 billion in investments.

Fourth, the Resident Coordinator system is guiding the UN country teams to deliver development results and enable the realization of efficiencies.

Resident Coordinators track implementation of Business Operations Strategy, negotiate arrangements for common premises, facilitate common back offices, and promote the shift towards global service centers.

Fifth, the Resident Coordinator system is fostering increased accountability and transparency for results.

They are spearheading efforts to strengthen the accountability to member states including by providing comprehensive Results Reports and improve use of digital platforms for sharing information on the work of UN country teams.

Excellencies,

Some of you may be familiar with this positive legacy of the repositioning, however, there are some notable shifts in the past year.

Member States responded to the Secretary-General’s proposal to provide more funding for the Resident Coordinator system from the regular budget. While the increase of $53m from the regular budget provides a thin but essential cushion of funding –it still falls far short of providing and adequate and sustainable base.

We still count on Member States to provide voluntary contributions. We rely the UNSDG to pay their portion of the cost-sharing. And we look to both to dutifully pay the levy.

We are preparing a comprehensive review of the resident coordinator system as requested by the General Assembly for the 81st Session, informed by robust data and analysis. This recalibration exercise will ensure the RC system is optimally capacitated and structured.

In 2024, because of lack of funding, only 33% of RCO were fully staffed.

The intake of candidates for the RC/HC talent pipeline had to be paused, with implications on the diversity of expertise available in the future.

The Resident Coordinator system still remains our most efficient investment to support the sustainable development of countries at scale. Resolving the long term shortfall – which was nearly $80m in 2024 – must be resolved to enable it to fully deliver on the mandates that you have given.

There are other lingering challenges which we must overcome.

The early findings of the system-wide evaluation on country configuration and derivation are stark. As you will hear from the Executive Director of the UNSDG System-Wide Evaluation Office tomorrow, the need for action will be clear.

Dialogues on UN teams’ configuration have yet to transform country-level presence or expertise, and entities’ programming instruments are still not fully derived from the Cooperation Framework.

Over the course of this year and next, we will work with Member States and UN Sustainable Development Group Entities to right this ship.

I count on your leadership, in this forum and in the governing bodies, to ensure that we are all pulling in the same direction, towards more tailored, cohesive, coordinated support. Ensuring that each entity plays to their comparative advantage.

We are working to ensure that the tools and structures are optimally aligned with the needs of countries.

The forthcoming reviews of the business models of UNSDG entities, the Management and Accountability Framework and the Cooperation Framework Guidance provide a critical window to ensure the UN system is aligned in structure and process – and guided by clear accountability lines, with much more efficient response.

Excellencies,

We are now entering a decisive window — the second half of the 2030 Agenda. And there is absolutely no time to lose.

In the Pact for the Future, Member States recommitted to advancing the SDGs.

Let us strengthen the system to enable us to deliver on this commitment.

And let us ensure that the UN development system receives the support it needs to deliver for the people it serves.

Let us invest in the United Nations development system, as a matter of shared responsibility and a strategic necessity for a sustainable future that leaves no one behind.

Thank you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI: Terra’s 2025 Vision Puts AI, Affordability, and Ecosystem Connectivity at the Center of Workers’ Comp Innovation
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

COLLEGE STATION, Texas, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Terra, the cloud-native platform redefining Workers’ Compensation software, today announced its bold 2025 roadmap—spotlighting new AI innovations, a radically fair pricing model, and seamless partner integrations. With transformative updates rolling out across claims and policy management, Terra is delivering what the industry has long lacked: true efficiency, simplicity, and transparency.

Terra continues to expand its powerful suite of solutions, including Claims Management, Policy Administration, Claims Benchmarking, Connect Marketplace, and Compliance Management. These solutions are designed to simplify operations for stakeholders across the insurance and risk management ecosystem, such as Third-Party Administrators (TPAs), Carriers, Self-Insured Funds and Groups (SIFs and SIGs), Captives, Managing General Agents (MGAs), and Medical Service Providers.

A standout differentiator for Terra is its Terra Connect functionality, a built-in marketplace that seamlessly links clients with leading service providers. This eliminates integration barriers and enables frictionless coordination across medical, legal, compliance, and ancillary vendors. This embedded ecosystem enables faster claim handling, streamlined workflows, and better outcomes.

Announcing his vision for 2025 and beyond, James Benham, CEO and Co-Founder of Terra, stated, “Our AI capabilities are already making a substantial impact by enhancing efficiency and streamlining the claims process for our clients, but this is just the beginning. With features like OCR that auto-populates compliance forms and AI-generated claim note summaries already in action, our clients are saving hours on administrative tasks every week. We are developing novel AI tools that will elevate operational efficiency and decision-making to new levels. We also have key AI partnerships in the pipeline that will strengthen our core platform with best-in-class functionality across automation, fraud detection, and predictive analytics.”

To that end, Terra has introduced a pricing model that disrupts legacy norms:
- No setup fees
- No long-term contracts
- Flexible, month-to-month pricing based on claims volume (for claims) or gross written premium (for policy)
Unlike legacy systems that rely on cumbersome processes, Terra’s cloud-native, AI-powered platform centralizes workflows, integrates seamlessly with payment systems and ancillary services, and delivers real-time reporting and analytics. This evolution demonstrates Terra’s commitment to providing forward-thinking solutions that address pain points such as manual interventions, security concerns, and the limitations of outdated systems.

As Terra progresses on its 2025 roadmap, clients can expect a steady cadence of product rollouts throughout 2025, including deeper AI integrations, advanced risk-scoring features, and more intelligent automations across claims and policy operations.

The company’s “Don’t Pay Until You’re Live” guarantee further cements its dedication to client success by eliminating financial risk during implementation.

Explore the full roadmap and see Terra in action—Request a personalized demo here or go to http://terra.insure.

About Terra

Terra is a cloud-native platform transforming Workers’ Compensation claims and policy management. By streamlining operations, centralizing workflows, and integrating with critical systems, Terra delivers cutting-edge solutions designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall management for TPAs, Carriers, SIFs, SIGs, Captives, MGAs, and Medical Service Providers.

Media Contact
Girish Jaggi
The MicDrop Agency
+1 (289) 623 3627
girish@thmicdropagency.com

The MIL Network –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI: Infini Introduces Lowest Fees in Platform History for Stablecoin Transactions

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Infini slashes card fees to 0.1%, edges closer to a 0% stablecoin payment future

HONG KONG, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infini, the next-generation Pay-Fi platform for stablecoin-based payments and financial services, today announced that its flagship Infini Global Card now offers a reduced transaction fee of just 0.1%, applicable to all users worldwide. This milestone marks the lowest fee tier in the platform’s history and brings it significantly closer to its long-term mission: making stablecoin payments feel free.

Full compensation delivered within hours

Earlier this year, Infini faced a significant security incident — an event that could have shattered user confidence.

Instead, the founding team responded with unprecedented speed and transparency, publicly committing to and delivering full compensation to affected users within hours.

“True trust is forged in crisis,” said Christian Li, Founder of Infini, “We didn’t wait to react — we chose to act. And our users stood by us because we stood by them.”

Since then, Infini has implemented multi-layered upgrades to its custody architecture, partnered with leading security auditors, and established a resilient compliance and risk control system. The result? Continued growth, stronger infrastructure, and a community that believes more than ever.

Card volume growth drives lower fees

This foundational trust has enabled Infini to accelerate its roadmap.

“This is exactly why we built the Infini Flywheel,” said Christian Li, Founder of Infini. “As an active node within the Visa and Mastercard networks, the more transaction volume we drive, the more cashback and network incentives we unlock. But instead of keeping those margins, we pass them directly back to users — by lowering fees. That engine is now accelerating.”

Infini’s model has seen rapid growth across emerging markets like Latin America and Southeast Asia, where users are increasingly seeking low-cost, globally usable crypto payment tools amid rising inflation. As user spending continues to rise, Infini expects platform-level earnings to further improve, making a true 0% fee structure achievable in the near future.

“No one should be penalized for using their own money,” said Christine, Co-founder of Infini, “That’s why we’re building a future where payments are fair, global, and practically free.”

Daily yield automatically accrued

In addition to lower fees, Infini also offers users effortless earnings on stablecoin balances. Funds held in Infini accounts accrue daily yield automatically — no action required.

Earnings are calculated and distributed every day, creating a seamless blend of saving and spending in one place.

Spend anywhere

Since its launch, the Infini Global Card has allowed users to spend stablecoins like USDT and USDC globally via Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Alipay, and other major wallets. All transactions benefit from zero conversion fees, real-time FX settlement, and automatic daily yield generation — transforming stablecoin balances into productive capital, even while spending.

In markets with high FX volatility, Infini has even observed what users call a “negative fee effect” — where the USD equivalent deducted during a transaction was lower than the local fiat equivalent at spot rate. This unexpected bonus reflects the real-world advantage of Infini’s 0% conversion fee and instant-settlement architecture over traditional payment rails.

About Infini

Infini is a next-generation Pay-Fi platform connecting stablecoin savings with real-world payments. Users can deposit stablecoins like USDT and USDC to earn daily yield and spend them directly via Infini’s virtual or physical cards, accepted globally through Visa and Mastercard networks. With full support for Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Alipay, Infini offers a seamless bridge between DeFi earnings and everyday life.

With over 50,000 active users and growing rapidly, Infini is expanding into new markets while continuing to lower costs, improve security, and introduce support for more currencies and payment scenarios.

Website: https://infini.money
Twitter / X: https://x.com/0xInfini

Media Contact
Valerio Li
Head of Marketing
media@infini.money

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

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

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c4e2c2d0-69d9-46d9-81f1-9dd1681536d3

The MIL Network –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI: XRP Whales Focus Attention to Nimanode’s $NMA Token Presale – No Code AI Agents on XRP Ledger
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LEEDS, United Kingdom, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nimanode, the pioneering platform merging artificial intelligence and the XRP Ledger is pleased to announce the kick off of their $NMA token presale which commenced on 22nd May 2025, 3pm UTC and is slated to run for a 30 day window.

As interest in XRP grows, recently fueled by its inclusion in the U.S. Strategic Crypto Reserve and rising institutional adoption projects building on XRPL are in the spotlight.

JOIN $NMA PRESALE

Nimanode is positioning itself at the intersection of artificial intelligence and decentralized technology. While much of the Web3 space remains focused on static smart contracts, Nimanode introduces something radically different: autonomous AI agents that users can build, deploy, and monetize — with zero coding required.

What’s so Special about Nimanode?

They boast of a suite of AI agents that can be deployed all from a no-code interface

Web3 Customer Support Agents – Deployment AI agents 24/7 Web3-based customer support

DeFi Autopilot Agent – AI Agents that not only trade but research, analyse and present optimal APY for its users

Risk Assessment Agent – Designed to safeguard users by analyzing every dApp or token address a user interacts with.

Why Whale’s are Scooping $NMA

With a deliberately limited supply of just 200 million tokens, $NMA’s tokenomics are designed to reward early adopters and its ecosystem participants. Positioned at the core of Nimanode’s decentralized infrastructure, the token offers holders access to staking rewards, governance participation, and revenue-sharing opportunities.

Holding the $NMA Token unlocks the full potential of the ecosystem, including:

Agent Deployment – Reduced fees for launching agents when holding a minimum $NMA balance

Agent Marketplace – Use $NMA to access premium agents or receive exclusive discounts

Staking Benefits – Stake $NMA to earn passive income through the platform’s reward pool

Governance Access – Participate in protocol decisions and vote on proposals that shape Nimanode’s future

Buy $NMA Token

How To Join The Nimanode Presale

Here’s how you can participate:
1. Buy XRP from reputable exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, or Bybit
2. Send them to an XRP Compatible Wallet (Xaman recommended) to hold your purchased XRP.
3. Go to Nimanode’s presale page, copy the deposit address, and send your XRP to it.
4. Receive your tokens via airdrop 24 hours after the presale concludes.
Act Now, Don’t Miss Out

The market is heating up. BTC is hitting new highs. But the smartest investors aren’t just riding waves, they’re positioning for what powers the next one.

AI isn’t coming — it’s already here, and Nimanode gives you the keys to deploy it.

Get your $NMA while it’s still early.

JOIN THE PRESALE | TWITTER | TELEGRAM | WHITEPAPER

Contact:
Nick Lambert
contact@nimanode.com

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

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

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7f14cb92-88e8-4539-8a6e-2c5e55cf6723

The MIL Network –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI: XRP News: XenDex Presale Ends in 6 Days, Buy $XDX And Don’t Miss Out on XRP’s Fastest-Growing Decentralized Exchange With Lending & Borrowing Feature
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SYDNEY, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the crypto world continues to turn its attention toward the XRP Ledger, one project is rising fast, XenDex. With only 6 days remaining in its presale, time is running out for investors to buy $XDX tokens at pre-launch pricing before the token is listed on major exchanges like Binance, Gate.io, MEXC, BitMart, FirstLedger, and MagneticX.

Read on to learn why XenDex is creating so much excitement across the XRP community.

What is XenDex On XRP Blockchain?

Purchase $XDX At A low Price & Earn Rewards

XenDex is the first all-in-one decentralized exchange (DEX) built specifically for the XRP Ledger. It combines fast, secure trading with advanced features previously missing from XRPL, all within a user-friendly interface. It’s built to be scalable, efficient, and inclusive for both beginners and professional traders.

Features and Problems XenDex Aims to Solve on XRP Ledger

Until now, XRPL lacked key DeFi tools such as:
- Lending & borrowing
- AI copy trading
- Cross-chain interoperability
- DAO governance
XenDex is solving these limitations with its feature-rich platform, designed to empower the XRP community with the full functionality expected in modern DeFi.

Advantages of $XDX

Holding $XDX, the native utility token of XenDex, comes with powerful benefits:
- Governance and voting rights
- Staking rewards and yield farming
- Discounted fees on the platform
- Early access opportunities, exclusive to XDX holders
Where Can I Trade $XDX?

After the presale, $XDX will be listed and traded on top exchanges including Binance, Gate.io, BitMart, MEXC, MagneticX, and FirstLedger. The project team assures a good increment in $XDX price upon listing.

Buy $XDX Now Before Listing On Binance

Is XenDex a Legit Project on XRP?

Yes. XenDex is built transparently with a passionate, crypto-native team. The platform is undergoing smart contract audits to ensure security and reliability before its launch. It is an XRP based crypto project that aims to bring various features live on the Ripple ledger, and aims to become the best DEX on Ripple blockchain.

How Do I Buy $XDX?

Visit https://xendex.net/presale, connect your XRP-compatible wallet (e.g., Xaman), and contribute a minimum of 150 XRP. Current rate: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX. For more information on how to buy $XDX, please visit https://tinyurl.com/k3e75va9

XenDex Presale Details
- Soft Cap: Filled
- Hard Cap: Almost Filled
- Presale Ends: In 6 days
- Presale Rate: 150 XRP = 1200 $XDX
Join XenDex Community

Stay connected and informed:

Website: xendex.net
Presale: xendex.net/presale
Telegram: t.me/xendexcommunity
Twitter/X: x.com/xendex_xrp
Docs: xdxdocs.gitbook.io

Contact:
Frank Richards
Frank@xendex.net

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

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

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d9a647a2-6389-46e2-9cf6-0df4a01213bb

The MIL Network –
May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Delivers Reimbursement Wins for Texas in the One Big Beautiful Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the House passed the One Big Beautiful Bill to advance President Trump’s America First Agenda. Among the many wins for the American people secured in this legislation, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) fought to secure $12 billion in border reimbursements for states that stepped up, including Texas.

“The devastating impact of the previous administration’s open border policies has been felt nationwide—but no state has carried the burden more than Texas. Texas spent $11.1 billion on border security, including $5.87 billion on personnel costs and $4.75 billion on border wall and barriers. When the federal government failed to secure our border and protect our communities, Texans stepped up. Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve fought tirelessly to get our state the reimbursements it’s owed, and now, that fight is finally paying off,” said Rep. Pfluger.

Background:

Texas had to take on a massive financial burden to protect our communities when the previous administration failed to do so. Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Pfluger has fought to reimburse Texas for securing the southern border, including:

·     American Border Rescue Plan Act (2021)

·     This bill would allow state and local governments to use stimulus funds from the American Rescue Plan to cover the costs of border security.

·     Lone Star Reimbursement Act (2022)

·     This bill aimed to pay the State of Texas back for the costs of Operation Lone Star incurred in FY21 and FY22, which total $1.43 billion.

·     Co-led with Rep. Fallon

·     Letter to President Biden to reimburse Texas/meeting request (2023)

·     Pfluger-led letter signed by all Republican members of the Texas Delegation

·     FY24, FY25, and FY26 Appropriations Requests (2023, 2024, 2025)

·     FY24: Led a letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas for $5.1 billion.

·     FY25: Led a letter with 18 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.26 billion.

·     FY26: Led a letter with 19 signers urging the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to reimburse Texas $11.2 billion.

·     Efforts to Reimburse Texas through Supplemental Funding Vehicle

·     Although the measure failed, Rep. Pfluger led the charge on including Texas reimbursement through supplemental funding packages in the spring of 2024.

·     Rep. Pfluger has also consigned H.R. 424 and H.R. 1222, and H.R. 3464 to reimburse Texas

MIL OSI USA News –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Superbowl UK opening creates over 30 new jobs for Wolverhampton residents

Source: City of Wolverhampton

City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Stephen Simkins, and Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Chris Burden, dropped in to wish the staff – all from the city – good luck.

Situated off Victoria Street, Superbowl UK’s £2.4million investment, in what is its 15th branch, boosts the city centre’s leisure offer and comes on the back of the council’s transformation works to improve and pedestrianise the area.

The venue is fitted with 12 bowling lanes, Crazy Club Soft Play, interactive darts, bar and diner and SEGA Prize Zone Arcade, and brings the company’s distinctive brand of family entertainment and competitive socialising to the city.

Opening times are Monday to Thursday (9am to 11pm) and Friday to Saturday (9am to midnight).

Councillor Stephen Simkins said: “This commitment shows great confidence in our city centre which is seeing a huge amount of investment driven by the council’s compelling vision based on better connectivity, more homes, jobs, skills and learning opportunities, and investment in the visitor economy.

“Superbowl UK’s development has brought empty retail units back to life, further delivering on our ambitions for the city centre and illustrating how high streets up and down the country must change and adapt.”

Kate Quaintance, Acquisitions Director for Superbowl UK, said: “The opening of Wolverhampton as our 15th branch is part of our significant growth in the last 5 years.

“Superbowl UK Wolverhampton brings the company’s distinctive brand of family entertainment and competitive socialising to Wolverhampton, and we are delighted we can now start welcoming the people of Wolverhampton to enjoy our fantastic offer.”

Councillor Chris Burden added: “Superbowl UK’s new venue will serve as a catalyst for further investment and the council continues to work with the owners of the Mander Centre, Catella APAM, on attracting other new leisure and food and beverage occupiers.

“Alongside Superbowl UK, the city centre will also be boosted by the opening of the new 4 screen Lockworks Cinema in the Chubb Building this summer and a new indoor climbing facility coming to the former Express & Star offices in Queen Street.

“Working alongside popular venues like the art gallery, Grand Theatre and University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, this will all drive footfall to support local businesses.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 27, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Advances Legislation to Protect Small Businesses and Consumers

Source: US State of New York

EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined supporters to rally for the passage of the Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable Business Practices, or FAIR Business Practices Act, a program bill from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and sponsored in the state legislature by Senator Leroy Comrie and Assemblymember Micah Lasher. This legislation will strengthen New York’s consumer protection law, GBL §349, to protect New Yorkers from predatory lending, abusive debt collection, junk fees, artificial intelligence (AI)-based schemes, online phishing scams, hard-to-cancel subscriptions, data breaches, and other unfair, deceptive, and abusive practices. Forty-two other states and federal law already prohibit unfair practices, making New York’s current law both antiquated and inadequate.

“As the federal government steps back from protecting consumers and small businesses, New York must step up to help working families and Main Street businesses,” said Attorney General James. “The FAIR Business Practices Act will protect small businesses from predatory lenders, homeowners from bad mortgage servicers, patients from abusive debt collection, and much more. This legislation will strengthen New York’s consumer protection laws to stop businesses from taking advantage of New Yorkers. I look forward to working with my partners in the state legislature to get this legislation passed.”

The FAIR Business Practices Act would also help stop lenders, including auto lenders, mortgage servicers, and student loan servicers, from deceptively steering people into higher-cost loans. It would reduce unnecessary and hidden fees, stop unfair billing practices by health care companies, and prevent companies from taking advantage of New Yorkers with limited English proficiency. With the federal government rolling back protections for consumers and small businesses, the FAIR Business Practices Act authorizes OAG and victims to seek civil penalties and restitution against businesses that use unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices against vulnerable New Yorkers.

“New Yorkers deserve to be treated fairly, and this legislation helps ensure that,” said Senator Leroy Comrie. “The FAIR Business Practices Act gives our state stronger tools to hold bad actors accountable and protect everyday people from deceptive and abusive practices. I’m proud to sponsor this bill alongside Attorney General James and Assemblymember Lasher as we work to strengthen consumer protections and support small businesses across our state.”

“New York has one of the weakest consumer protection laws in the country. Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking a hatchet to federal consumer protections, leaving New Yorkers even more vulnerable to abuse. The time to act is now,” said Assemblymember Micah Lasher. “Making sure that the Attorney General has the tools she needs to look out for New Yorkers is one of the best ways we can stop the damage Trump is trying to do. We must pass this bill this session to protect consumers from the high costs of unfair business practices. It is an honor to stand together in this fight with Attorney General James and Senator Comrie. Let’s get this done.”

“We applaud Attorney General James for developing the FAIR Business Practices Act and we thank Assemblymember Lasher for introducing this bill,” said Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO. “The NYS AFL-CIO strongly supports modernizing the state’s consumer protection laws, particularly because of rollbacks at the federal level, but also to address technological, legal, and other developments that have made our current laws less effective. This bill, which will improve the rights and protections of workers who have been victims of various fraudulent and unfair practices, including unreasonable terms and conditions for payday loans or payroll check-cashing schemes, is a crucial step towards a fairer and more just society.”

“The FAIR Business Practices Act will protect working families from abusive business practices that are making it hard for people to get a car, keep a roof over their heads, and put food on the table,” said Henry Garrido, Executive Director of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, DC37. “Right now the federal government is stepping away from enforcing consumer protection laws that protect everyday people. I applaud Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for advancing this legislation to protect working families, small businesses, seniors, and much more. Let’s pass the FAIR Business Practices Act by the end of this session.”

“AARP New York thanks Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for their leadership on this legislation,” said Kristen McManus, Senior Associate State Director for Advocacy for AARP New York. “Scammers are targeting older adults more than ever, with the FBI reporting that New Yorkers 60 and older lost more than $254 million to fraud in 2024, a more than $50 million increase from the previous year. Now is the time for the Governor and legislature to step up for all New Yorkers by establishing a consumer protection law that will foil scammers and discourage con artists from targeting some of the most vulnerable among us.”

“Where New York was once a leader in protecting small businesses from bad loans, our neighboring states have all since passed laws to stop unfair, abusive, and deceptive behavior,” said Lindsey Vigoda, New York Director of Small Business Majority. “We cannot continue to fall behind on these common-sense protections, which is why New York must pass the FAIR Business Practices Act. This legislation would shield Main Street from abusive fees that all too often place enormous strain on small businesses. With predatory lending products more prevalent today than ever, it’s time for New York to step up once again and defend our most precious asset — our small business community.”

“In response to the Trump administration’s gutting of federal consumer protection agencies and financial regulators, states must step up to stop big businesses from ripping off working families,” said Winston Berkman-Breen, Legal Director at the Student Borrower Protection Center. “This is especially true in New York, where abusive student loan servicers and private student loan companies take advantage of our weak consumer protections and prey on low-income households and vulnerable communities seeking to achieve financial stability through higher education. We applaud Attorney General James, Senator Comrie, and Assemblymember Lasher for meeting this moment by introducing the FAIR Business Practices Act. The bill will finally catch New York up with the rest of the country by providing commonsense and timely consumer protections for households and small businesses.”

“The FAIR Business Practices Act strengthens New York’s core consumer protection law to ensure it is up to date and serves as an effective deterrent against wrongdoing,” said Chuck Bell, Advocacy Programs Director for Consumer Reports. “At a time when federal consumer protection initiatives are under attack, New York is stepping up to ensure consumers and small businesses will have the protections they need and deserve against financial ripoffs, fraud, and scams in the marketplace.”

“Every New Yorker should be able to work and invest in a prosperous future without fearing predatory lenders pulling the carpet out from under them,” said Diana Caba, Vice President for Community and Economic Development, Hispanic Federation. “It is deeply concerning how few protections consumers have in New York and how those protections are becoming even more limited because of the weakening of regulatory bodies at a national level. The FAIR Business Practices Act shows that New York is prioritizing the financial well-being of New Yorkers and catching state regulations up with the 42 other states who recognize why states must protect people’s financial future.”

“New York’s bedrock consumer protection law is intended to protect New Yorkers from new and evolving scams across all economic activity, but in practice it has fallen short, leaving gaps where scam victims have no recourse to get their money back, while making it profitable to continue abusing people,” said Ariana Lindermayer, Senior Staff Attorney of Mobilization for Justice. “The FAIR Business Practices Act would close these gaps and catch New York up with the 42 states that already ban unfair business practices. Honest businesses and everyday New Yorkers will welcome real protection from predatory businesses and competitors.”

“The FAIR Business Practices Act should be uncontroversial,” said Matthew Parham, Director of Litigation and Advocacy at the Western New York Law Center in Buffalo. “The unfair and abusive practices that it addresses are already illegal. It just does what most states have done for decades: lets individual consumers and state regulators enforce these rights, instead of relying on the federal government. This is vitally important now, when the federal government is completely abdicating its responsibility to protect consumers from scams and ripoffs.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 27, 2025