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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Global: Fraudulent crowdfunding after the Lapu Lapu tragedy highlights the need for vigilance and oversight

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jeremy Snyder, Professor, Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University

    Around 100,000 members of Vancouver’s Filipino community and other residents recently gathered to take part in the Lapu Lapu street festival to celebrate Filipino culture. This vibrant community celebration ended in tragedy when a vehicle was driven at high speed through the festival.

    Eleven people were killed in the April 26 attack, and dozens injured in what acting police chief Steve Rai called the “darkest day in the city’s history.”

    There has been an outpouring of community support for the victims, their friends and families, and the Filipino community in Vancouver. This support has taken the form of flowers and messages left at the attack site, vigils and gatherings and religious events.

    And, as is now common following high-profile tragedies, the Lapu Lapu festival attack has been accompanied by a number of crowdfunding campaigns by and for its victims.

    A memorial for the victims of the Lapu Lapu tragedy.
    (J. Snyder), CC BY

    Helping after disaster

    Many of these crowdfunding campaigns are hosted by GoFundMe, which has set up a dedicated hub for these fundraisers. A week after the attack, the 16 campaigns on this hub had raised more than $2.3 million.

    Dozens of other fundraisers on GoFundMe have raised additional money for various causes and groups associated with the tragedy and Vancouver’s Filipino community. Other crowdfunding platforms have also hosted related crowdfunding campaigns.

    Crowdfunding is a way for the public to help those in need in concrete ways while also expressing their shock and sadness over tragic events. People from across the world have taken advantage of crowdfunding’s accessibility to learn about victims and join the outpouring of support.

    This support can be large and consequential. A campaign for Andy Le, a teenager who lost his family at the festival attack, has received more than $500,000 in donations. As a result of this support, Le has in turn pledged to donate half that money to other victims.

    This viral, international support has meant these campaigns are likely able to raise vastly more money than would be possible through traditional, purely local and offline activities.

    Teenager Andy Le, who lost his family in the Lapu Lapu attack, redistributes the funds raised in an online campaign.

    Fraud and fundraising

    But while the online nature of crowdfunding allows for a global response to high-profile tragedies, the relatively impersonal nature of crowdfunding has its downsides. Our research has demonstrated that crowdfunding sometimes attracts fraudulent campaigns.

    High-profile events that spur numerous campaigns and massive financial support are particularly attractive to fraudsters. Unfortunately, this has been the case with the Lapu Lapu festival tragedy. In one case, a GoFundMe campaign fraudulently raised more than $57,000, ostensibly to return the body of “Reyna Dela Peñato” to the Philippines after her death at the festival and to support her sons.

    Separately, the Philippine Consulate General of Vancouver warned of fraudulent campaigns on its behalf that used images from its website.

    Vetting authenticity

    Communities can provide mutual support by detecting these fraudulent campaigns, especially in tight-knit communities like Filipinos in Vancouver. In the case of the fraudulent campaign for “Reyna Dela Peñato,” it was flagged by Raquel Narraway, a Vancouver resident who had been compiling information on fundraisers. Narraway was able to marshal her connections to the local Filipino community to show that the campaign was not genuine.

    GoFundMe does its own vetting as well, identifying some campaigns as “verified” after contacting organizers.

    However, responding to actual and potential fraud creates new burdens on victims to prove their legitimacy to the public and crowdfunding platforms. Local community members are in turn taken away from grieving to investigate these campaigns. These policing activities inject a level of distrust into fundraising that is less present when giving takes place between people with pre-existing connections.

    Growing challenges

    While the problem of fraud in crowdfunding isn’t new, changes to the practice of crowdfunding may make it harder to detect. The advent of large language models or artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT have made it easier for crowdfunding campaigners to edit their campaign narratives to appeal to a wider pool of potential donors.

    Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe are also pushing AI features directly into their platforms to “enhance” these campaigns and help campaigners “connect with more donors.” These features may be especially appealing to people whose first language is not English, as may be the case with some victims of the Lapu Lapu festival attack.

    While the AI-ification of crowdfunding creates a more level playing field for campaigners, it may also make fraud easier to commit and harder to detect. This will be true if generating fake campaigns is easier using chatbots and if legitimate campaigns use AI and take on a less authentic voice.

    Online crowdfunding isn’t going anywhere, and for many victims of the Lapu Lapu festival attack, it has enabled them to ease some of the burden from that terrible day. However, we should be aware that crowdfunding isn’t a purely beneficial tool for people in need. Without proper oversight, it may develop in ways that are even more problematic.

    Jeremy Snyder receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Valorie A. Crooks receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada, BC Women’s Health Research Institute and MITACS..

    – ref. Fraudulent crowdfunding after the Lapu Lapu tragedy highlights the need for vigilance and oversight – https://theconversation.com/fraudulent-crowdfunding-after-the-lapu-lapu-tragedy-highlights-the-need-for-vigilance-and-oversight-255934

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswomen Tenney and Fischbach Reintroduce the MOMS Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today alongside Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-7), reintroduced the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS) Act, which will provide critical support to new moms during and after their pregnancy, empower women to choose life, and help them to raise happy, healthy babies.

    “Being pro-life means supporting mothers and their babies during every phase of life. The MOMS Act offers vital resources and assistance during pregnancy and the earliest stages of motherhood and childhood to ensure mothers and babies receive the care and support they deserve. We must ensure that all mothers receive the physical, emotional, and financial support necessary to carry their pregnancies to term, support themselves and their newborn babies, and ultimately choose life,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    “For many women, finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant comes with fear, and for some, abortion may feel like the only option. I am committed to empowering all women and ensuring they feel supported in choosing life,” said Congresswoman Fischbach. “The MOMS Act supports women before, during, and after they give birth. It improves access to resources and makes sure women have everything they need right at their fingertips to help them confidently carry to term and raise their child. As we go into Mother’s Day weekend, I am so proud to introduce legislation that supports new mothers and their children.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Premier of the State Council of China Meets with Saudi Aramco Chairman

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Saudi Aramco Chairman Yasser Al-Rumayyan in Beijing on Thursday.

    Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said the China-Saudi Arabia comprehensive strategic partnership is developing rapidly, with cooperation in various fields deepening.

    Noting that Saudi Aramco has long been actively involved in China’s reform, opening-up and modernization, the vice premier expressed hope that the two sides will continue to deepen cooperation in traditional fields such as energy and chemical industry, actively develop cooperation in scientific and technological innovation and green transformation, jointly maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains and the multilateral trading system, so as to make greater contributions to China-Saudi Arabia relations and the world economy.

    Y. Al-Rumayyan, in turn, stated that Saudi Aramco is always optimistic about China’s development prospects and is ready to expand investment and trade cooperation with China in order to contribute to trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New healthcare body formed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government welcomed the establishment of the Institute for Medical Advancement & Clinical Excellence (IMACE) today, which brings together different areas of expertise from Hong Kong’s healthcare sector to serve as a platform for the development of evidence-based clinical guidelines and explore the feasibility of devising service quality and efficiency standards for public and private healthcare services.

    The seven founding members of the institute attended its inaugural meeting today, including the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (HKAM), Department of Health, Hospital Authority, Primary Healthcare Commission, Faculty of Medicine of the Chinese University, LKS Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong and the Private Hospitals Association.

    At the invitation of the Health Bureau, the HKAM has nominated its past president Prof Gilberto Leung as the institute’s first Convener. The academy will also provide secretarial support to assist the institute in commencing its work.

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau said the establishment of the institute marks a milestone in the development of Hong Kong’s healthcare system, noting that it will serve as a professional platform underpinned by evidence-based medicine that brings together the expertise of healthcare professionals and the wealth of clinical data from the public and private sectors, enabling the exploration of more effective medical options and ultimately benefitting the patients.

    “In view of the rapid advancement in medical technology, I hope the IMACE can promote exchanges among healthcare professionals and maintain connections with institutions responsible for developing evidence-based medicine and clinical guidelines worldwide. This will enable our healthcare professionals to learn about and apply the latest technologies, further promoting Hong Kong’s development into an international health and medical innovation hub.”

    With members spanning across the public and private healthcare sectors, the institute will enable the sectors to collect data and cases in an effective manner for detailed deliberations on clinical practices in screening, diagnosis, treatment and management of various diseases as well as evaluating the efficacy of various medical options, the Health Bureau said.

    Upon comprehensive deliberations, the institute will devise and promulgate clinical guidelines as well as service quality and efficiency standards, it added.

    Apart from providing a reference for healthcare professionals to enhance healthcare standards, the relevant clinical guidelines and standards can serve as public education tools to facilitate citizens’ understanding of the healthcare services they may need in the event of different illnesses.

    Additionally, the institute can make recommendations to the Government on implementing policy initiatives to drive clinical excellence and improve practice quality.

    In accordance with the principle of professional autonomy, the bureau invited the founding members to establish the institute and committed to providing financial support to take forward its work, but will not be involved in its governance, research or discussions.

    The institute may set up working groups as necessary and invite other professional members and co-opted members to participate, thereby facilitating more holistic deliberations.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of Gordon Ogunmuyiwa’s manslaughter

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been found guilty of the manslaughter of Gordon Ogunmuyiwa after an investigation by specialist Met detectives.

    Paul Campbell, 43 (03.04.79) of Dunheved Road West, Thornton Heath, was convicted on Thursday, 8 May following a three-week trial at Woolwich Crown Court.

    He is due to be sentenced on Tuesday, 10 June.

    Campbell had beaten Gordon, a 62-year-old former doctor from Dalston, Hackney to death on Christmas Eve, following more than a year of financial and physical abuse.

    Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, who led the Met’s investigation said: “Gordon was a gentle man with no history of violence.

    “Ill health however had seen him become increasingly vulnerable – something Campbell took advantage of. A selfish and self-serving man, Campbell’s greed coloured his actions and an innocent man was taken from his family.

    “I hope today’s verdict goes some way in providing a sense of justice to Gordon’s family.”

    The court heard that on Saturday, 24 December 2023, police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 11:00hrs to a report a man had died in a bed and breakfast in Thornton Heath.

    Gordon was found in a room registered in Campbell’s name. However, when paramedics arrived Campbell was not present.

    Detectives attempted to contact him but were unsuccessful.

    This led officers to make enquiries into Campbell, which resulted in a murder investigation being launched.

    Police interviewed fellow residents at the bed and breakfast and quickly established a pattern of behaviour that saw Gordon suffer brutal beatings by Campbell.

    A financial search uncovered that Campbell had been using Gordon’s credit cards. He also bought an iPhone from a second hand shop, using said bank cards, a week after Gordon had died.

    On Wednesday, 11 January Campbell was arrested on suspicion of murder and charged the next day.

    A post mortem was conducted and it was clear that Gordon had multiple injuries borne over time.

    However, the assault, heard by neighbours on Saturday, 23 December, was declared to have been particularly vicious and ultimately led to Gordon’s death.

    Gordon’s Sister Merion Wood said: “Gordon was much loved and his death has completely destroyed our family. We thank the police for their efforts at bringing his murderer to justice and pray no other family has to suffer as we have.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sentenced to Over 30 Years in Prison for Crypto-Terror Financing Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    A Springfield, Virginia, man was sentenced yesterday to 364 months in prison for his efforts to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from at least October 2019 through October 2022, Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, collected and sent money to female ISIS members in Syria to benefit ISIS in various ways, including by financing the escape of female ISIS members from prison camps and supporting ISIS fighters. Chhipa would raise funds online on various social media accounts. He would receive electronic transfers of funds and travel hundreds of miles to collect funds by hand. He would then convert the money to cryptocurrency and send it to Turkey, where it was smuggled to ISIS members in Syria.

    “This defendant directly financed ISIS in its efforts to commit vile terrorist atrocities against innocent citizens in America and abroad,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This severe sentence illustrates that if you fund terrorism, we will prosecute you and put you behind bars for decades.”

    “With this sentencing, this defendant will pay the price for helping finance ISIS, a brutal terrorist organization,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This is more proof that the FBI will investigate and work with our DOJ partners to hold accountable anyone who assists ISIS or other terrorist groups. Whether you are a fighter or send money, these activities are illegal and against the national security interests of the United States.”

    “Those who fund and facilitate terror bear the same responsibility as those who carry out attacks,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Mohammed Chhipa knowingly and persistently collected and provided a considerable amount of money to fund the violence of an organization bent on forcing their extremist ideology on others. That he did so from a nation that holds individual freedom sacrosanct is unconscionable.”

    His primary co-conspirator was an ISIS member residing in Syria who was involved in raising funds for prison escapes, terrorist attacks, and ISIS fighters.

    Over the course of the conspiracy, Chhipa sent over $185,000 in cryptocurrency.

    In December 2024, a federal jury convicted Chhipa of one count of conspiracy to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and four counts of providing and attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony T. Aminoff and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda St. Cyr for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Andrew John Dixon and former Trial Attorney Andrea Broach of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – International companies to host live webcasts at Deutsche Bank’s Depositary Receipts Virtual Investor Conference on May 15, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Deutsche Bank today announced the lineup for its Depositary Receipts Virtual Investor Conference (“dbVIC”) on Thursday, May 15, 2025 featuring live webcast presentations from international companies with American Depositary Receipt (ADR) programs in the United States.

    Representatives from participating companies based in China, Hong Kong, Philippines, Denmark, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom will respond to questions during formal presentations. The conference is targeted to all categories of investors and analysts interested in international companies.

    There is no fee for participants to log in, attend live presentations and/or ask questions.

    Pre-registration is suggested. Please register here: www.adr.db.com/dbvic

    Conference Agenda May 15th, 2025 (US Eastern Standard Time):

    • 8:00 AM: Bavarian Nordic A/S (Nasdaq Copenhagen: BAVA, OTC: BVNRY)  
    • 8:30 AM: Viomi Technology Co., Ltd (NASDAQ: VIOT)
    • 9:00 AM: Infineon Technologies AG (Xetra: IFX, OTC: IFNNY)
    • 9:30 AM: Clicks Group Ltd (JSE: CLS, OTC: CLCGY)
    • 10:00 AM: First Pacific Company Ltd (HKEX: 142, OTC: FPAFY)
    • 10:30 AM: HUTCHMED (China) Limited (AIM: HCM, NASDAQ: HCM, and HKEX:13)
    • 11:00 AM: 51Talk Online Education Group (NYSE American: COE)
    • 11:30 AM: Yiren Digital Ltd. (NYSE: YRD)
    • 12:00 PM: ABB Ltd. (SIX: ABBN, OTC: ABBNY)
    • 12:30 PM: Belite Bio, Inc  (NASDAQ: BLTE)
    • 13:00 PM: Epiroc AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: EPIA, OTC: EPOAY)
    • 13:30 PM: International Airlines Group (LSE: IAG, MAD: IAG, OTC: ICAGY)
    • 14:00 PM: BDO Unibank, Inc (PSE: BDO, OTC: BDOUY)
    • 14:30 PM: iHuman Inc. (NYSE: IH)

    The presentations will be available for replay after the conference.

    In addition to specializing in administering cross-border equity structures such as American and Global Depositary Receipts, Deutsche Bank provides corporates, financial institutions, hedge funds and supranational agencies around the world with trustee, agency, escrow and related services. The Bank offers a broad range of services for diverse products, from complex securitizations and project finance to syndicated loans, debt exchanges and restructurings.

    For further information, please contact:
    Dylan Riddle
    Deutsche Bank AG
    Press & Media Relations
    Tel. +12122504982
    Cell. +1(904)3866481
    Email dylan.riddle@db.com

    Deutsche Bank provides commercial and investment banking, retail banking, transaction banking and asset and wealth management products and services to corporations, governments, institutional investors, small and medium-sized businesses, and private individuals. Deutsche Bank is Germany’s leading bank, with a strong position in Europe and a significant presence in the Americas and Asia Pacific.

    Deutsche Bank is sponsoring the Deutsche Bank Depositary Receipt Investor Conference solely for informational purposes. Deutsche Bank does not prepare, review, approve or edit any presentations, statements, documents or other information or materials, whether in written, electronic or verbal form, provided by any company participating in such conference, and disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of any such information or materials. Deutsche Bank is not promoting, endorsing or recommending any company participating in the conference.

    The Depositary Receipts have been registered pursuant to the US Securities Act of 1933 (the “Act”) on Form F-6. The investment or investment service which is the subject of this notice is not available to retail clients as defined by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. This notice has been approved and/or communicated by Deutsche Bank AG New York. The services described in this notice are provided by Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (Deutsche Bank) or by its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in accordance with appropriate local registration and regulation. Deutsche Bank is providing the attached notice strictly for information purposes and makes no claims or statement, nor does it warrant as to or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the details contained herein and does not undertake an obligation to update or amend this information. Deutsche Bank, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates disclaims any and all liability to fullest extent permitted by law, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any of them might otherwise have in respect of the above information. This announcement appears as a matter of record only. Neither this announcement nor the information contained herein constitutes an offer or solicitation by Deutsche Bank or any other issuer or entity for the purchase or sale of any securities in the United States, nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to any person in any other jurisdiction. No part of this notice may be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of Deutsche Bank. Past results are not an indication of future performance. Copyright© May 2025 Deutsche Bank AG. All rights reserved.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund consolidated unaudited results for Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Management Board of Northern Horizon Capital AS has approved the unaudited financial results of Baltic Horizon Fund (the Fund) for the three months of 2025.

    Our strategic ambitions
    Over the past years, our focus has been on reshaping our strategy to foster sustainable value in a very demanding environment, concentrating efforts on avenues that promise reliable and consistent growth for our investors.

    We firmly believe that the execution of the ‘Modern City Life’ strategy, introduced to investors in 2024, is paramount to their best interests. This strategy emphasizes developing centrally located, multi-functional properties with adaptable spaces designed to inspire, uplift, and enhance the lives of modern citizens and communities. Our value proposition is built on quality, flexibility, sustainability, and exceptional service, supported by strategic locations that cater to the evolving needs of our tenants, visitors and neighbours.

    The Fund management team has implemented and specified its key performance indicators (KPIs) as a means to effectively measure and track performance because we acknowledge that clear and measurable benchmarks are essential for evaluating progress towards the Fund’s objectives. By defining specific KPIs, the team aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and facilitate decision-making processes.

    In 2025 the Fund will focus on four KPIs:

    • Occupancy of not less than 90% by the year end. We aim to decrease the current vacancies across the portfolio. At the end of Q1 occupancy rate (based on handover date) was 82.3%
    • Attaining a net operating income (NOI) of EUR 130 per square meter by 2027. Due to possible divestments, from 2025 the management has a new target of NOI/sq.m. rather than total NOI p.a.
    • Loan to value ratio not exceeding 50%. The Fund recently introduced its divestment strategy with the aim to reduce financing costs and decrease LTV levels. In March 2025 the Fund disposed the Meraki business centre in Vilnius. Proceeds of the disposal were used to repay the outstanding loan and early repay the bonds in the amount of EUR 3 million.
    • Optimizing the property portfolio by considering the disposal of non-strategic assets if deemed strategically beneficial.

    Leasing performance
    During the 3 months of 2025, the Fund signed new leases for approx. 2,000 sq. m. Moreover, leases of approx. 5,500 sq. m. were prolonged. 7 new tenants have been attracted to our buildings, while 8 existing tenants have decided to continue their cooperation with us.

    As of the end of March 2025, the portfolio occupancy rate based on handover date stood at 82.3%, while occupancy calculated according to lease signing date reached 86.9%, marking significant progress toward the target of 90%.

    Notably, less than 14% of leases are set to expire during the next 9 months, while the vast majority expire in 2026 and later. We aim to spread our lease terms evenly so that no more than 20% of our leases expire each year.

    Recent successful leasing activity is reflected in the increase in the weighted average unexpired lease term until the first break option, which was 3.6 years as of 31 March 2025 (compared to 3.4 and 2.9 years as of 31 December 2024 and 2023).

    Outlook
    In 2025 the Fund will focus on flexible and sustainable solutions to meet tenant demands and market conditions. Our key goals are increasing the occupancy of the portfolio and decreasing the LTV by way of repaying part of the bonds.

    In 2025, we will continue advancing our social and environmental commitments. All our assets have been BREEAM-certified, and by the end of Q1 2025, we achieved 95% green leases across our portfolio, with a target to further increase this share in the coming year.

    In a challenging leasing market, the Baltic Horizon Fund is focusing on minimizing administration expenses to offset reduced income. By regularly reviewing overhead costs, investing in technology upgrades, and negotiating fees, the fund aims to enhance operational efficiency and improve long-term investment returns. These strategies are essential for maintaining financial health and maximizing results despite limited income opportunities.

    Simultaneously, to reinforce its financial position, the Fund is committed to improving its debt service ratio and reducing loan-to-value levels. By focusing on increasing occupancy rates and optimizing property concepts, we aim to enhance asset performance and maximize net operating income. Adaptive leasing strategies, property repositioning, and targeted investments in high-demand segments will remain key priorities. These initiatives are designed to create long-term value for investors while ensuring the Fund remains resilient in a dynamic market environment.

    Baltic Horizon achieves a 100% BREEAM certified portfolio
    Our portfolio is 100% BREEAM certified.

    GRESB benchmarking
    In 2024 the Fund received a 3-star GRESB rating. During 2024, the Fund has implemented a GRESB improvement plan and aims to receive 4-stars again in the year 2025.

    Net result and net rental income
    The Group earned consolidated net rental income of EUR 3.0 million in Q1 2025 (Q1 2024: 2.8 million). The results for Q1 2025 include two months of net rental income of the Meraki office property (EUR 0.2 million), which was sold on 13 March 2025.

    The portfolio net rental income in Q1 2025 was 6.3% higher than in Q1 2024, mainly due to higher occupancy in Galerija Centrs since the complex was undergoing a transition period of certain tenants in the buildings in Q1 2024, as well as higher occupancy in Meraki as the international office furniture company NARBUTAS fully moved in to the premises at the end of 2024.

    In Q1 2025, the Group recorded a net loss of EUR 968 thousand compared with a net loss of EUR 624 thousand for Q1 2024. The result was mainly driven by the losses on disposal of investment properties. Earnings per unit for Q1 2025 were negative at EUR 0.01 (Q1 2024: negative at EUR 0.01).

    Investment properties
    At the end of Q1 2025, the Baltic Horizon Fund portfolio consisted of 11 cash flow generating investment properties in the Baltic capitals. The fair value of the Fund’s portfolio was EUR 226.2 million at the end of March 2025 (31 December 2024: EUR 241.2 million) and incorporated a total net leasable area of 110.7 thousand sq. m. During Q1 2025 the Group invested approximately EUR 1.4 million in tenant fit-outs.

    Gross Asset Value (GAV)
    As of 31 March 2025, the Fund’s GAV was EUR 243.2 million (31 December 2024: EUR 256.0 million). The decrease compared to the prior year was mainly related to the disposal of the Meraki office building, which had contributed approx. EUR 16.4 million to the GAV.

    Net Asset Value (NAV)
    As of 31 March 2025, the Fund’s NAV was EUR 97.2 million (31 December 2024: EUR 98.1 million). The NAV decrease was mainly due to losses on disposal of Meraki. As of 31 March 2025, IFRS NAV per unit amounted to EUR 0.6769 (31 December 2024: EUR 0.6833), while EPRA net tangible assets and EPRA net reinstatement value were EUR 0.7209 per unit (31 December 2024: EUR 0.7267). EPRA net disposal value was EUR 0.6736 per unit (31 December 2024: EUR 0.6797).

    Interest-bearing loans and bonds
    As of 31 March 2025, interest-bearing loans and bonds (excluding lease liabilities) were EUR 138.9 million (31 December 2024: EUR 149.0 million).
    As of 31 March 2025, the Fund’s consolidated cash and cash equivalents amounted to EUR 12.8 million (31 December 2024: EUR 10.1 million).

    Cash flow
    Cash inflow from core operating activities in Q1 2025 amounted to EUR 1.3 million (Q1 2024: cash inflow of EUR 1.9 million). Cash inflow from investing activities was EUR 14.3 million (Q1 2024: cash outflow of EUR 1.3 million) mainly due to the sale of Meraki in March 2025 for EUR 16 million. Cash outflow from financing activities was EUR 12.8 million (Q1 2024: cash inflow of EUR 5.7 million). In Q1 2025, the Fund repaid the BH Novus UAB (previously BH Meraki UAB) loan amounting to EUR 10.3 million and paid interest on bank loans and bonds.

    Key earnings figures

    EUR ‘000 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 Change (%)
    Net rental income 2,970 2,794 6.3%
    Administrative expenses (548) (585) (6.3%)
    Other operating income (expenses) 18 10 80.0%
    Losses on disposal of investment properties (905) (367) 146.6%
    Valuation losses on investment properties (5) (4) 25.0%
    Operating (loss) profit 1,530 1,848 (17.2%)
    Net financial expenses (2,673) (2,497) 7.0%
    (Loss) profit before tax (1,143) (649) 76.1%
    Income tax 175 25 600.0%
    Net (loss) profit for the period (968) (624) 55.1%
           
    Weighted average number of units outstanding (units) 143,562,514 119,635,429 20.0%
    Earnings per unit (EUR) (0.01) (0.01) –

    Key financial position figures

    EUR ‘000 31.03.2025 31.12.2024 Change (%)
    Investment properties in use 226,220 241,158 (6.2%)
    Gross asset value (GAV) 243,208 256,048 (5.0%)
           
    Interest-bearing loans and bonds 138,914 148,989 (6.8%)
    Total liabilities 146,035 157,953 (7.5%)
           
    IFRS Net asset value (IFRS NAV) 97,173 98,095 (0.9%)
    EPRA Net Reinstatement Value (EPRA NRV) 103,496 104,333 (0.8%)
           
    Number of units outstanding (units) 143,562,514 143,562,514 –
    IFRS Net asset value (IFRS NAV) per unit (EUR) 0.6769 0.6833 (0.9%)
    EPRA Net Reinstatement Value (EPRA NRV) per unit (EUR) 0.7209 0.7267 (0.8%)
           
    Loan-to-Value ratio (%) 61.4% 61.8% (0.4%)
    Average effective interest rate (%) 6.5% 6.7% (0.2%)

    During Q1 2025, the average actual occupancy of the portfolio was 82.7% (Q4 2024: 81.0%). The occupancy rate increased to 82.3% as of 31 March 2025 (31 December 2024: 82.1%).

    Overview of the Fund’s investment properties as of 31 March 2025

    Property name Sector Fair value1 NLA Direct property yield Net initial yield Occupancy rate
    (EUR ‘000) (sq. m)  20252 20253
    Vilnius, Lithuania            
    Europa SC Retail 36,106 17,127 2.7% 3.1% 81.6%
    North Star Office 19,550 10,740 5.6% 6.2% 90.3%
    Total Vilnius   55,656 27,867 3.9% 4.7% 85.0%
    Riga, Latvia            
    Upmalas Biroji BC Office 19,241 11,204 3.4% 4.3% 64.1%
    Vainodes I Office 15,936 8,128 6.2% 8.5% 100.0%
    LNK Centre Office 11,641 7,452 (2.4%) (3.7%) 0.0%
    Sky SC Retail 4,910 3,260 8.7% 9.3% 100.0%
    Galerija Centrs Retail 60,863 19,441 3.4% 4.5% 84.7%
    Total Riga   112,591 49,485 3.3% 4.4% 70.8%
    Tallinn, Estonia            
    Postimaja & CC Plaza complex Retail 21,876 9,232 3.1% 5.2% 100.0%
    Postimaja & CC Plaza complex Leisure 13,195 7,877 6.4% 5.8% 100.0%
    Lincona Office 13,110 10,767 6.7% 8.3% 92.6%
    Pirita SC Retail 9,792 5,425 6.6% 8.5% 97.1%
    Total Tallinn   57,973 33,301 4.9% 6.6% 97.1%
    Total portfolio   226,220 110,653 3.9% 5.0% 82.3%
    1. Based on the latest valuation as of 31 December 2024, recognised right-of-use assets and subsequent capital expenditure.  
    2. Direct property yield (DPY) is calculated by dividing annualized NOI by the acquisition value and subsequent capital expenditure of the property.
    3. The net initial yield (NIY) is calculated by dividing annualized NOI by the market value of the property.

    Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income

    EUR ‘000    
    01.01.2025
    – 31.03.2025    		 01.01.2024
    – 31.03.2024
    Rental income 3,794 3,846
    Service charge income 1,332 1,048
    Cost of rental activities (2,156) (2,100)
    Net rental income 2,970 2,794
         
    Administrative expenses (548) (585)
    Other operating income 18 10
    Losses on disposal of investment properties (905) (367)
     Valuation losses on investment properties (5) (4)
    Operating profit (loss) 1,530 1,848
         
    Financial income 42 4
    Financial expenses (2,715) (2,501)
    Net financial expenses (2,673) (2,497)
         
    Profit (loss) before tax (1,143) (649)
    Income tax charge 175 25
    Profit (loss) for the period (968) (624)
       
    Other comprehensive income that is or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods
    Net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges 51 (219)
    Income tax relating to net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges (5) 27
    Other comprehensive income (expense), net of tax, that is or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods 46 (192)
         
    Total comprehensive income (expense) for the period, net of tax (922) (816)
         
    Basic and diluted earnings per unit (EUR) (0.01) (0.01)
           

    Consolidated statement of financial position

    EUR ‘000   31.03.2025 31.12.2024
    Non-current assets      
    Investment properties   226,220 241,158
    Intangible assets   2  4 
    Property, plant and equipment   2 5
    Derivative financial instruments              – 1                      
    Other non-current assets   845 1,225
    Total non-current assets   227,069 242,393
           
    Current assets      
    Trade and other receivables   2,848 2,800
    Prepayments   444 802
    Cash and cash equivalents   12,847 10,053
    Total current assets   16,139 13,655
    Total assets   243,208 256,048
           
    Equity      
    Paid in capital   151,495 151,495
    Cash flow hedge reserve   (374) (420)
    Retained earnings   (53,948) (52,980)
    Total equity   97,173 98,095
           
    Non-current liabilities      
    Interest-bearing loans and borrowings   83,896 98,491
    Deferred tax liabilities   1,742 1,898
    Other non-current liabilities   1,143 1,446
    Total non-current liabilities   86,781 101,835
           
    Current liabilities      
    Interest-bearing loans and borrowings   55,259 50,736
    Trade and other payables   3,331 4,473
    Income tax payable   – 14
    Derivative financial instruments   303 317
    Other current liabilities   361 578
    Total current liabilities   59,254 56,118
    Total liabilities   146,035 157,953
    Total equity and liabilities   243,208 256,048

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    This announcement contains information that the Management Company is obliged to disclose pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the above distributors, at 17:45 EET on 08 May 2025.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) unveils third edition of short film competition

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

    Afreximbank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) unveils third edition of short film competition Filmmakers between the ages of 18 and 35 years can enter the competition for a chance to win a cash prize of $2,000 for outstanding work in each of the competition’s three categories: Best Fiction, Best Documentary, and Best Animation CAIRO, Egypt, May 8, 2025/APO Group/ — Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), an intervention by African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has announced the third edition of its vibrant short film competition, CANEX Shorts, that is designed to recognise and celebrate talents of young filmmakers from Africa and the Diaspora.   Filmmakers between the ages of 18 and 35 years can enter the competition for a chance to win a cash prize of $2,000 for outstanding work in each of the competition’s three categories: Best Fiction, Best Documentary, and Best Animation. To be eligible, they must be Africans living on the continent, in the diaspora or the Caribbean. Each filmmaker can only enter one film for which they must hold all rights. The entered films should have been produced in 2023 or after and can be in any language.   Besides the cash prize, CANEX Shorts winners will also get an opportunity to participate and have their films screened at CANEX at IATF2025, which will take place in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 – 10 September 2025. This will also provide them with a chance to connect with potential investors and partners in what has become the largest gathering of creatives on the continent.  To enter the competition, filmmakers are required to submit their films, not more than five minutes long, via the Film Freeway digital platform (https://FilmFreeway.com/CANEXShorts). From all entries, the selection committee will curate a shortlist of 30 films – 10 films per category for submission to the jury that comprises, well-respected film experts from across the continent. The jury will then select a winning film in each of the categories during CANEX at IATF2025.  The 2024 CANEX shorts winners were unveiled at CANEX WKND 2024. The winning films were: Silent Screams by Esenaga Mbwe (Botswana) in the CANEX Shorts Best Fiction category; We Shall Not Forget by Brian Obra (Kenya) in the CANEX Shorts Best Documentary category; and Room-5 by Francis Y. Brown (Ghana) in the CANEX Shorts Best Animation category. According to the jury, the quality of films submitted during CANEX WKND 2024 was exceptionally high, necessitating award of two Special Mentions: Vodoun Nouminssin and Rain Is Not the Cloud’s Last Parade.  CANEX at IATF2025, where the winners will be unveiled, will provide a unique platform for nurturing business, investment opportunities, collaboration, partnerships and inspiration amongst the creatives fraternity across value chains of diverse creative and cultural industries from film, music, and fashion to culinary arts, sports, and visual arts amongst others. The event participants will include creatives, policymakers, financial institutions, business and political leaders, development partners, thought leaders as well as some of the most respected names in the Creative and Cultural Industries from across the continent and the diaspora.   Highlighting the importance of the competition, Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development at Afreximbank said: “Africa’s film industry, estimated at over $5 billion is thriving and brimming with untapped potential,” adding, “At Afreximbank, we are committed to unlocking this immense value by supporting platforms like CANEX Shorts that aim to propel African storytelling to the global stage. By investing in our creatives, we are not only creating jobs and economic opportunities; we’re actively ensuring Africa’s vibrant culture and talents gain global recognition.”  To enter the 2025 CANEX Shorts competition, please visit Filmfreeway: https://FilmFreeway.com/CANEXShorts. To register to attend CANEX at IATF for free: Canex.Africa (https://apo-opa.co/3GK4Bo8).   Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank. Media contact:  Vincent Musumba  Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)  Email: press@afreximbank.com About CANEX: Given the relevance and opportunities provided by the creative economy as a key driver for development and job creation, Afreximbank has developed the Creative Africa Nexus programme to facilitate the development and growth of the creative and cultural industries in Africa and the diaspora. The initiative provides a range of financing and non-financing instruments /interventions aimed at supporting and developing Africa’s production, trade, and investment in the creative sector. The key strategic objectives under the CANEX Programme include increasing Africa’s share of global cultural trade flows through trade and investment promotion activities, deploying specialized financial products to support the CCI ecosystem, facilitating technical capacity programs that enable export-grade production, facilitating market access to high-value demand hubs (through partnerships) and advocating for harmonized regulatory reform, especially concerning IP rights and incentives  About Afreximbank: African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.  About the Intra-African Trade Fair: Organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is intended to provide a unique platform for facilitating trade and investment information exchange in support of increased intra-African trade and investment, especially in the context of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). IATF brings together continental and global players to showcase and exhibit their goods and services and to explore business and investment opportunities in the continent. It also provides a platform to share trade, investment and market information with stakeholders and allows participants to discuss and identify solutions to the challenges confronting intra-African trade and investment. In addition to African participants, the Trade Fair is also open to businesses and investors from non-African countries interested in doing business in Africa and in supporting the continent’s transformation through industrialisation and export development. 

    Text copied to clipboard.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Congressman Sorensen Demands the Department of Defense Protect Critical National Security Jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    Congressman Sorensen During House Armed Services Committee Hearing: “To Maintain Our Country’s Readiness, I Strongly Oppose Civilian Workforce Cuts to the Rock Island Arsenal”

    Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) fiercely advocated for protecting essential jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal during a House Armed Services Committee hearing amidst news reports suggesting the Department of Defense is planning a significant reduction in force at the Arsenal. 

    The Arsenal plays a critical role in maintaining our country’s military readiness to combat threats around the globe and any potential layoffs threaten to hurt our national security. 

    “Our mission here at the Arsenal is essential,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “At a time when we face all kinds of threats all across the globe, we need a strong civilian workforce that is supporting the Department of Defense and its readiness to maintain our country’s readiness. I strongly oppose civilian workforce cuts to the Rock Island Arsenal and across the Department of Defense.” 

    Congressman Sorensen has taken advantage of his new position on the House Armed Services Committee to advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal. He recently led a bipartisan effort with Senators Chuck Grassley, Dick Durbin, and Tammy Duckworth to ensure the Department of Defense would not be jeopardizing our country’s military readiness with large job cuts. Earlier this year, he introduced the Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act, which would ensure the Rock Island Arsenal can remain competitive, create good-paying jobs, and sustain the regional economy. 
    You can watch the full remarks from Congressman Sorensen HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Demands Army Under Secretary Nominee Divest Stock Holdings in Anduril and Other Defense Contractors

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 08, 2025
    Senator warns Michael Obadal that financial conflicts “will compromise your ability to serve with integrity, raising a cloud of suspicion over your contracting and operational decisions.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to Mr. Michael Obadal, nominee for Under Secretary of the Army, with concerns about his refusal to divest from major defense contractors. Obadal will face lawmakers at his nomination hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on May 8, 2025. 
    If confirmed, Obadal will help manage the Army’s operations—consisting of a $186 billion budget, over 100,000 contracts a year, and over one million personnel. Obadal currently serves as a Senior Director at Anduril Industries, which was recently awarded a $22 billion contract to produce high-tech headsets for the Army. Obadal also holds between $250,000 and $500,000 in Anduril stock, which he has refused to divest from ahead of his confirmation. Anduril is also currently eyeing an initial public offering, and the company’s plan of going public would be boosted if it can secure more Pentagon contracts. 
    Even after divesting, Warren said Obadal should still recuse from specific-party matters involving Anduril. 
    “If you were to participate in a decision about an Anduril contract, your prior employment relationship with the company would lead the public to reasonably question whether you were more motivated to protect the company’s interests than the public interest,” said Senator Warren. 
    Obadal also holds stock in several other large defense contractors, including up to $15,000 in each of the following: General Dynamics, Eli Lilly, Thermo Fischer Scientific, and Cummins, Inc. 
    “By attempting to serve in this role with conflicts of interest, you risk spending taxpayer dollars on wasteful DoD contracts that enrich wealthy contractors but fail to enhance Americans’ national security,” said Senator Warren. 
    To address his conflicts of interest, Senator Warren asked him to make five commitments:
    Divest his equity in Anduril; 
    Recuse from any matters involving Anduril; 
    Divest his equity in stock in other major defense contractors; 
    Commit not to seek compensation from any company that works with the Army for four years after leaving government service; and 
    Commit not to lobby the Defense Department for at least four years after leaving office. 
    Some DoD appointees have agreed to a cooling-off period before seeking compensation from defense contractors. For example, Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, recently committed not to work for major defense contractors after leaving government.
    Relatedly, multiple former Biden appointees agreed to post-employment lobbying restrictions, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, IRS Chief Counsel Marjorie Rollinson, and Treasury Assistant Secretary for Investment Security Paul Rosen.
    Senator Warren asked Obadal to make these ethics commitments in writing by May 9, 2025. 
    Senator Warren has sought to protect servicemembers and national security by pushing defense nominees to resolve their conflicts of interest: 
    In March 2025, ahead of his confirmation vote, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Deputy Defense Secretary Nominee Stephen Feinberg, urging him to recuse himself from all matters related to Ligado Networks, which has a pending $39 billion lawsuit against the DoD. 
    In March 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Emil Michael, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, with concern over his history of inappropriate behavior at work, his attacks on journalists and public accountability, and his ties to technology companies that may seek contracts with the Department of Defense. 
    In February 2025, ahead of his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Stephen Feinberg, nominee for Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defense, pressing him to explain his “serious conflicts of interest” and his track record of mismanagement.
    In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Michael Duffey, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment of the Department of Defense, ahead of his confirmation hearing, with serious concerns about his record, which include violating the law, disregarding Congressional authority, and his involvement in Project 2025. 
    In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Pete Hegseth, nominee for Secretary of the Department of Defense, regarding his ethics conflicts ahead of the Senate’s consideration of his nomination. Mr. Hegseth’s household’s ownership of stock in several defense contractors and his unwillingness to commit to the same post-employment restrictions he previously advocated for were particularly troubling for a prospective Secretary of Defense.
    In March 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured ethics commitments from Douglas Schmidt, ahead of his confirmation to be the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) for the Department of Defense.
    In June 2023, Senator Elizabeth Warren and representative Andy Kim reintroduced the Department of Defense Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act, to limit the influence of contractors on the military, constrain foreign influence on retired senior military officers, and assert greater transparency over contractors and their interaction with DoD.
    In July 2021, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured agreements to four-year recusals from former clients’ and employers’ party matters from then-Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall and then-USD(R&E) Heidi Shyu.
    In January 2021, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured a commitment from General Lloyd Austin III, then-nominee for Secretary of Defense, to extend his recusal from Raytheon Technologies for four years and to not seek a position on the board of a defense contractor or become a lobbyist after his government service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Ricketts Promotes Renewable Fuels and Nebraska’s Farmers During Press Call

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his efforts to promote renewable fuels and Nebraska’s farmers during his weekly press call. Ricketts recently led a resolution declaring May 2025 as Renewable Fuels Month in America. He spoke with members of Nebraska press about the resolution:
    “Nebraska farmers fuel the world through the production of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel,” said Ricketts. “Renewable fuels save consumers money at the pump and support Nebraska agriculture. They clean our environment and support American energy security.”
    Ricketts also underscored the cost savings renewable fuels provide Nebraskan families.
    “Biofuels save consumers money at the pump,” continued Ricketts. “Last time I filled up at Hy-Vee, I saved 55 cents per gallon with E10 compared to the regular 89 octane. That’s saving money at the pump. That’s real relief.”
    In addition, Ricketts described the economic benefits of biofuels for Nebraska’s farmers. Nebraska’s 25 ethanol plants have capacity to make nearly 2.2 billion gallons of biofuel each year. These plants provide more than 1,300 good-paying jobs with an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion.
    TRANSCRIPT:
    Senator Ricketts: “Thank you very much for joining this press call today. 
    “Nebraska farmers fuel the world through the production of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel. 
    “Renewable fuels save consumers money at the pump and support Nebraska agriculture. 
    “They clean our environment and support American energy security. 
    “That’s why I introduced a bipartisan resolution designating May 2025 as Renewable Fuels Month in America. 
    “As Governor, you may recall I did that a lot for the state of Nebraska. We’re doing it for America now.
    “My resolution celebrates Nebraska’s farmers, rural communities, and home-grown energy. 
    “Biofuels save consumers money at the pump. 
    “Nebraska drivers saved at least $325 million last year by using ethanol blends like E10 and E15. 
    “During the summer months, drivers can save more than 30 cents per gallon. 
    “Owners of flex fuel vehicles, which can run on blends up to E85, can save even more. 
    “Last time I filled up at Hy-Vee, I saved 55 cents per gallon when I filled up with E10 compared to the regular 89 octane.  
    “That’s saving money at the pump.
    “That’s real relief. 
    “Biofuels support Nebraska agriculture. 
    “Our state is America’s second-largest ethanol producer. 
    “Our 25 ethanol plants have capacity to make nearly 2.2 billion gallons each year. 
    “These plants support more than 1,300 good-paying jobs. 
    “They bring an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion dollars. 
    “Biofuels help local farmers get better prices for their corn and soybeans. 
    “A typical dry mill ethanol plant adds nearly 50% more value to every bushel of corn processed last year. 
    “That’s value-added agriculture. 
    “These fuels help drive our economy forward. 
    “Biofuels can help clean our environment. 
    “Ethanol reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 44% to 52% compared to regular gasoline. 
    “E15 also reduces other pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates.
    “That means cleaner air for our communities. 
    “Biofuels also support American energy security. 
    “The Renewable Fuels Association estimates that U.S.-produced ethanol displaced the need for 630 million barrels of imported oil in 2024. 
    “Using home-grown fuels means we rely less on authoritarian countries like Venezuela.
    “Authoritarian countries don’t share our values.
    “We should never depend on them for energy when we have proven solutions right here in Nebraska. 
    “This resolution is one of my many ways I’m supporting renewable fuels. 
    “I led the fight against Biden’s EV mandate. 
    “I introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act to expand access to flex fuel vehicles. 
    “I’m pushing to pass Senator Deb Fischer’s bill to allow year-round E15 sales nationwide. 
    “I introduced the Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act with Democrat Senator Amy Klobuchar. 
    “That bipartisan bill helps biofuels power cargo ships and other large vessels. 
    “I also support the Farm to Fly Act, which will develop the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. 
    “Consumers, producers, and industry would all benefit from these expanded opportunities. 
    “Nebraska’s biofuels producers help fuel America and the world. 
    “Every day is a good day to choose biofuels. 
    “As you get ready to hit the road this summer, consider filling up on E15. 
    “You’ll be supporting local producers, helping clean our environment, and promoting American energy security. 
    “You’ll also be saving money at the pump! 
    “Now that’s a win for everybody.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Statement by IMF Deputy Managing Director Kenji Okamura at the Conclusion of His Visit to San Marino

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 8, 2025

    San Marino: Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement today in San Marino at the end of his visit:

    “I am delighted to be in San Marino. This is my first visit, and I would like to thank Captains Regent Bronzetti and Righi, Finance Minister Gatti, Minister of Foreign Affairs Beccari, Central Bank President Tomasetti, Central Bank Managing Director Vivoli, as well as other ministers and senior officials for their warm hospitality and for the productive discussions.”

    “In the last decade, San Marino’s economy has transformed from overreliance on the financial sector serving non-residents and moved towards a diversified growth model, driven by the manufacturing and non-financial services. The economy is in a much stronger position today, thanks to the authorities’ stewardship. Prudent fiscal policies, moderate wage growth, and access to international capital markets have allowed the country to weather the pandemic and the energy crises. Despite the regional slowdown and high global interest rates, San Marino’s economy continues to be resilient, with employment levels at record highs.”

    “I commended the authorities for their ongoing efforts to reduce public debt. Pension reform and prudent wage growth policy have strengthened the fiscal position. We discussed plans to continue building fiscal buffers by containing spending, advancing income tax reforms and introducing VAT. We also discussed the challenges of fiscal policy in the current context of trade tensions and heightened uncertainty.”

    “In addition, we discussed the authorities’ efforts to reduce financial sector vulnerabilities, including resolving banking sector legacy issues and addressing nonperforming loans, via securitization and strengthened bank regulations. While banks’ liquidity, capitalization, and profitability have improved, banks will need to improve their cost efficiency to ensure long-term viability. I welcomed the progress in implementing the Anti-Money Laundering / Countering the Financing of Terrorism framework.”

    “The conclusion of the EU association agreement negotiations is another milestone for San Marino. The agreement will help local businesses access the EU market and will enhance the quality of San Marino’s public administration as it adopts the EU regulatory framework.”

    “I very much appreciate the excellent, long-standing relations between San Marino and the IMF. I look forward to strengthening our continued partnership through regular policy dialogue and technical assistance.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Boris Balabanov

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/08/pr25134-san-marino-statement-imf-deputy-managing-director-kenji-okamura-conclusion-his-visit

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: SECU Foundation Awards Grace Clinic of Yadkin Valley with $600,000 Grant for New Medical Facility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ELKIN, N.C., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SECU Foundation has announced a $600,000 challenge grant for Grace Clinic of Yadkin Valley (GCYV) to assist with the construction of a new medical facility in Elkin, North Carolina. The 7,125 square-foot clinic will allow the non-profit to greatly expand services in its four-county region and increase capacity to serve over 600 patients annually.

    GCYV is a Free and Charitable Clinic (FCC) that provides quality integrated primary healthcare for marginalized individuals, including those with chronic conditions and behavioral health needs. One of eight FCCs in North Carolina serving Medicare and Medicaid patients, GCYV provides access to a region where 18.5% of adults are uninsured and 22.5% of adults are living under the poverty level according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

    “We are so pleased to support the important work of Grace Clinic of Yadkin Valley,” said SECU Foundation Board member Michael Clements. “GCYV is such a valuable part of the community, providing critical services for the people of this area for almost 20 years. SECU Foundation is thrilled to help fund the construction of a new facility that will expand much-needed services and allow for hundreds more patients to be served each year.”

    “Grace Clinic of Yadkin Valley is extremely grateful to the SECU Foundation for their generous support of the construction of a new Health Center,” said GCYV Executive Director Betty W. Taylor. “The Center will offer a wide range of primary care, behavioral health, medication assistance, and dental services. The new facility will not only expand our services, but also will provide better utilization of space and improved access and parking for handicapped patients.”

    About SECU and SECU Foundation
    A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, and federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), SECU has been providing employees of the state of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for 87 years. SECU is the second largest credit union in the United States with $53 billion in assets. It serves more than 2.8 million members through 275 branch offices, 1,100 ATMs, Member Services Support via phone, www.ncsecu.org, and the SECU Mobile App. The SECU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization funded by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high-impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Since 2004, SECU Foundation has made a collective financial commitment of over $300 million for initiatives to benefit North Carolinians statewide.

    Contact: Jama Campbell, Executive Director, secufoundation@ncsecu.org

    Receiving the check are GCYV Board members and Executive Director Betty W. Taylor (third from the left) surrounded by GCYV and SECU Foundation representatives.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3386f1c8-bca5-4c86-a42f-b26d83dad106

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Azerion publishes Notice of Annual General Meeting 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Azerion publishes Notice of Annual General Meeting 2025

    Amsterdam, 8 May 2025 – Azerion Group N.V. has today published the Notice of Annual General Meeting 2025 (AGM), which will be held on 19 June 2025. The notice, agenda and accompanying explanatory notes, as well as the 2024 Annual Report and other relevant documentations have been published on our website www.azerion.com/agm/

    The agenda of the AGM includes, amongst other proposals, the proposal to adopt the 2024 financial statements. Additional information on resolutions and board recommendations for voting are available in the Notice of AGM.

    Further information regarding the registration and attendance of the AGM, as well as instructions and deadlines on how to vote and submit questions can be found on our website http://www.azerion.com/agm/.

    About Azerion

    Founded in 2014, Azerion (EURONEXT: AZRN) is one of Europe’s largest digital advertising and entertainment media platforms. Azerion brings global scaled audiences to advertisers in an easy and cost-effective way, delivered through our proprietary technology, in a safe, engaging, and high-quality environment, utilizing our strategic portfolio of owned and operated content with entertainment and other digital publishing partners.

    Having its roots in Europe and with its headquarters in Amsterdam, Azerion has commercial teams based in over 21 cities around the world to closely support our clients and partners to find and execute creative ways to make a real impact through advertising.

    Contact:

    Investor Relations
    ir@azerion.com

    This communication contains information that qualifies as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA investigation leads to charges related to importation of equipment used to make false identities

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Montréal, Quebec, May 8, 2025 –  Djamel Eddine Boutarene, 30, appeared today at the Montreal courthouse.

    He is charged of:

    Possessing other people’s identity information with the intention of using it to make false documents, contrary to the Criminal Code.

    • Making false identifications, including driver’s licenses, permanent resident cards and health insurance cards, contrary to the Criminal Code.
    • Having smuggled prohibited goods into Canada, that is, items intended for the making of forged documents, contrary to the Criminal Code.
    • Making false or misleading representations by importing goods under false identities contrary to the Customs Act.

    The CBSA’s investigation began in November 2023 when border services officers at Mirabel International Airport intercepted a package containing equipment used in the printing of identity cards. Links were made between this package and other interceptions of material with the same destination.

    The CBSA investigation led to the arrest of Mr. Boutarene and the seizure of computer equipment in his possession demonstrating that these imported items were intended for the making of false identities, including identities stolen from a financial institution.

    A file was submitted to the Public and Criminal Prosecution Service of Canada and charges were filed at the Montreal courthouse on April 2, 2025. These charges will have to be validated by the court.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Creative and Cooperative Balancing Act

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Welcome to the penultimate day of the SEC’s 31st International Institute for Securities Market Growth and Development. Before I begin, as I am sure you anticipate based on what you have heard from many SEC speakers this week, my views are my own as a Commissioner and not necessarily those of the SEC or my fellow Commissioners.

    The Institute’s longevity signals the importance of capital formation and the development of capital markets. These topics can get lost in regulatory conversations, which tend to focus on what government can do to protect investors, rather than what markets can do to protect investors. Efficient, flourishing capital markets do more than serve investors; their function is much grander—to serve humanity. As the lifeblood of businesses and innovation, capital markets help a nation’s economy to meet its people’s needs and generate the societal prosperity that enriches the lives of individuals and their communities. Affording investors an opportunity to share in the fruits of the economy’s growth is a welcome byproduct of well-functioning capital markets and a central element of investor protection.

    The capital markets themselves are the means by which investors prosper, but carefully crafted, well-balanced regulation of markets gives investors the confidence to participate in those markets. If a nation regulates its capital markets with too heavy a hand, businesses will wither, innovators will migrate elsewhere, consumers will pay more for inferior products and services, and investors will suffer economically. If a nation establishes a clear regulatory perimeter that provides broad latitude to people to transact as they like, people will have the confidence to make choices that benefit them and their families. An important regulatory objective is ensuring that investors have sufficient, reliable information to be willing to take the risk to invest their money in innovative and growing businesses. This balancing act is not easy, and every country has its own idiosyncrasies that factor into determining the right mix. Moreover, determining the proper regulatory balance is an ongoing exercise in which all countries—no matter the stage of development of their capital markets—must engage.

    The U.S. capital markets are well-developed and well-functioning, but keeping them preeminent requires continued care and creativity. Here in the United States, we are constantly asking ourselves how we can do better and watching for signs that something may be amiss in the markets or the way we regulate them. For example, we are reflecting on why the number of public companies listed on exchanges in the U.S. fell from 5,243 in 2004 to 4,862 in 2024.[1] This decline reflects positively on the robustness of our private markets, but the regulatory requirements the Commission has imposed on public companies also are partly responsible for dissuading companies from going public. We need to take a look at these requirements and ask whether some of them are extraneous, or even harmful. Much public company regulation takes the form of disclosure requirements but even disclosure requirements can be costly and distracting to management and may change the company’s practices in ways that are not good for investors. Requiring a company to disclose in detail executive compensation, including how it relates to other employees’ pay, for example, can limit the company’s ability to hire the best people to run the company. Keeping disclosure requirements principles-based and rooted in materiality of the information to investors seeking to maximize the long-term value of the company helps them stand the test of time.

    Good regulatory balance also requires ensuring that new competitors can come into the marketplace to serve investors and provide market infrastructure. Sensible regulation protects investors and markets from dishonest and careless intermediaries, whether those intermediaries are established or new. But heavy-handed regulation can protect incumbents by making it too costly for would-be competitors who want to challenge existing firms with better, cheaper products and services. Scaled regulation—imposing fewer requirements on smaller firms—is one way to foster competition. Without dynamic competition, capital markets cannot effectively serve people. Moreover, a concentrated set of incumbents, comfortably hiding behind regulatory barriers, may contribute to market fragility.

    Poor regulation may not only keep new competitors out, but may prevent incumbents from using new technologies. Here too regulators can take measures to ensure that regulation does not become a barrier to technology. Rules that mandate objectives to be achieved without prescribing how to achieve them can create a welcoming environment for new technologies. When rules stand in the way of market experimentation with new technologies and fast-to-market innovation, regulators should think creatively. Let me give you a concrete example that I am pondering right now.

    As you may be aware, the Commission is revising its approach to crypto regulation. This endeavor is multi-faceted, but one focus is tokenization of traditional securities. Tokenization refers to the use of distributed ledger technology to maintain the record of ownership of traditional assets, including securities, such as stocks and bonds. It entails formatting these assets as crypto assets (or “tokens”) on a blockchain or other distributed ledger technology (“DLT”).

    In thinking about how to facilitate private sector tokenization initiatives, I have been inspired by the “regulatory sandbox” structures implemented in other jurisdictions, including some represented in this audience. Those structures have allowed firms to innovate in a live, but controlled, environment. Innovating firms are able to get to market quickly under appropriate, reasonably calibrated conditions. They do not have to comply with inapt regulations, which, in many cases, were developed well before the technologies being tested existed and may be obviated by attributes of that technology. In addition to offering individual firms the opportunity to try something out in the marketplace, these sandboxes can help regulators think about how existing rules could be adapted to accommodate trading tokenized securities at scale.

    The SEC’s Crypto Task Force, informed by a February request for comment,[2] is considering a potential exemptive order that would allow firms to use DLT to issue, trade, and settle securities. This potential conditional exemption from certain SEC registration requirements and associated rules would allow firms to use innovative trading systems for eligible tokenized securities. Firms seeking to operate an automated market making system for tokenized securities, for example, may face challenges in complying with the SEC’s Regulation National Market System. Such systems, their operators, or persons interacting with them also may have to register as a broker-dealer, clearing agency, or an exchange. Because only a small number of securities have been tokenized to date, firms may not be willing to devote resources to identify and address the regulatory barriers to trade and settle them. Companies may be hesitant to issue tokenized securities because only a limited number of venues can trade such securities. Exemptive relief could help resolve this chicken-and-egg problem. It also would afford the SEC time to develop and adopt durable adaptations to its existing rules to accommodate DLT.

    The contemplated exemption would be conditional. Exempted entities would comply with market integrity conditions for the prevention of fraud and manipulation. Additional conditions might include requirements to provide material and relevant disclosures to users about a platform’s products, services, operations, conflicts of interest, and risks, including smart contract risks; comply with recordkeeping and reporting requirements; be subject to monitoring and examination by SEC staff; and have adequate financial resources for operations. Supplemental requirements for participants offering crypto custodial services might include customer disclosures about custody arrangements and risks and a requirement to implement policies and procedures or substantive requirements related to blockchain and wallet security. Restrictions such as limiting the number and types of tokenized securities listed or traded or trading volume could mitigate risks to investors and markets. The SEC could raise these ceilings for a firm that has performed successfully at its initial limits.

    This sketch of a potential exemption is a work-in-progress. The goal is to formulate a commercially feasible approach that protects investors, including by ensuring that they have the benefit of cutting-edge technologies for trading, clearing, and settling securities. I welcome feedback from market participants and other interested parties, including participants in this Institute who have designed and implemented regulatory sandbox frameworks in your jurisdictions. Enabling firms to deploy new products and services in a streamlined fashion contributes to balanced regulation.

    Each of us has responsibilities to foster innovation in our own jurisdiction, but cross-border collaboration can help in this regard. Many firms want to serve customers in more than one jurisdiction, particularly because financial markets are international. Regulators would benefit from seeing how products or services work in different environments. Accordingly, I have advocated bilateral collaboration to allow participants in foreign sandboxes simultaneously to run their market experiments in the United States. Such an arrangement would require regulatory information sharing agreements and other cooperation. The challenges that U.S. and non-U.S. firms face in innovating in one nation pale in comparison to the difficulties that await them when they try to offer products and services in more than one jurisdiction. We owe it to our respective citizenry to tackle these frictions through cooperative approaches. The regulatory balancing act is not a solo exercise.

    This Institute provides a forum for a discussion of how we can help grow our respective capital markets by implementing a sensible regulatory regime. While each country’s capital market has its own characteristics, this Institute enables regulators to discuss what has worked in developing their markets and, just as importantly, what has not. Getting the balance right in each of our countries is essential, and it is not a zero-sum game. To the contrary, good regulation benefits everyone. Having strong capital markets globally will in turn help foster economic growth at home in all our countries. Balanced regulation in capital markets across the world helps to ensure that resources and, importantly, human talent are deployed in ways that benefit all of us.

    Thank you and enjoy the rest of the Institute.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trading Icon Moves Markets with the Iron Condor Strategy and Empowers Retail Investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SPARKS, Nev., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — David Chau, known in the financial world as Captain Condor, continues to redefine the world of options trading with his audacious bets and market-moving trades. Recently featured in The Wall Street Journal, Chau’s influence in the options market has skyrocketed, making waves not just with institutional investors but with individual traders as well.

    As the founder of InsideOptions, an exclusive educational community of over 1,000 traders, Chau has made headlines for his ability to move the S&P 500 index through massive options trades tied to the volatility of the market. His proprietary Iron Condor strategy, which profits from S&P 500 movement within a defined range, has drawn attention for its complexity and ability to generate significant returns even in volatile market conditions.

    Chau’s influence has been compared to that of legendary traders throughout history, as his trades have been large enough to move the markets and spark conversations across the financial world. His online community amplifies his trades, and when he shares his positions, many of his followers mimic his actions, creating an outsized impact.

    “Trading is a mental battlefield, and you need the fortitude to take risks while staying grounded in strategy,” said David Chau, reflecting on his approach to trading. “It’s about seeing the bigger picture and understanding how to navigate complex market dynamics.”

    InsideOptions: An Educational Community Revolutionizing Retail Trading

    At the heart of Chau’s approach is InsideOptions, where he shares his expertise with fellow traders. With an annual fee for membership, InsideOptions offers more than just trade alerts; it’s a comprehensive educational trading system designed for serious investors who want to dive deep into the world of options.

    Unlike many trading programs, InsideOptions does not simply cater to novice traders. Members of the community range from seasoned Wall Street professionals to doctors and engineers seeking to learn more about options trading. This diverse, committed group follows Chau’s educational content, amplifying his market knowledge and solidifying the power of informed retail investors.

    Chau’s approach has drawn both admiration and caution. Some financial experts warn that such high-risk strategies could be seen as gambling, but Chau believes his disciplined strategy is the key to his success. “It’s about understanding risk and controlling the environment you trade in,” said Chau.

    The Iron Condor Strategy: A Unique Path to Profits

    Chau’s signature strategy, the Iron Condor, involves creating a position that benefits from limited price movement. By selling both a put and a call option on the S&P 500 index at different strike prices, he profits if the index stays within a certain range. It’s a strategy that is designed for savvy traders, but Chau’s success in executing it has captured the attention of both the media and his growing network of followers.

    Through his educational content, Chau and his community have contributed to the dramatic rise of individual investors within the options market. With the number of daily options contracts surging in recent years, retail traders now account for nearly 30% of all options activity. Chau’s ability to tap into this trend has made him a household name in the trading world.

    SPX Program Fund LP: Institutional-Grade Investment Vehicle

    Alongside his educational platform InsideOptions, Chau is also actively working on expanding the SPX Program Fund LP, a separate investment vehicle focused on professional, institutional-grade trading strategies. This fund caters exclusively to accredited investors and operates independently from InsideOptions under its own specific regulatory framework.

    “As the founder of InsideOptions, I continue to manage and grow my options trading community and educational platform. Alongside this, I am also actively working on expanding my SPX Program Fund LP, a separate investment vehicle focused on professional, institutional-grade trading strategies with the goal of providing exceptional returns for accredited investors. These two entities, while both benefiting from my expertise in options trading, operate independently, and I am committed to ensuring that each one adheres to its own specific regulatory and operational framework,” states Chau.

    The fund aims to provide exceptional returns using sophisticated options strategies while maintaining strict compliance with all applicable securities regulations. Potential investors must meet accreditation requirements as defined by SEC guidelines.

    The Rise of Retail Power in Finance

    Chau’s influence comes at a time when retail trading is experiencing unprecedented growth. Following the market rally of 2020 and a surge in options activity, retail investors have taken center stage, contributing to the dramatic swings in stock prices and creating new opportunities for those willing to take risks.

    “People are fascinated by big market-moving trades, and they want to see what happens when a trader puts it all on the line,” said Avanidhar Subrahmanyam, a professor of behavioral finance at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management. “The curiosity around these trades, and their outcomes, has created a new culture of retail trading.”

    What’s Next for Captain Condor?

    Looking ahead, David Chau plans to expand his influence even further. With a growing presence on social media, plans for speaking engagements, and potential partnerships with academic institutions, Chau is positioned to continue leading the charge in the evolution of retail trading while growing his professional fund operations.

    “The journey is just beginning,” Chau said. “There’s much more to learn, and I’m excited to continue helping people master their trading psychology and gain a deeper understanding of the markets through InsideOptions, while also pursuing institutional-grade investment strategies through the SPX Program Fund LP.”

    For media inquiries or to schedule an interview with David Chau, please contact:
    Patricia Baronowski-Schneider
    President, Pristine Advisers
    pbaronowski@pristineadvisers.com
    516-473-4052

    About David Chau (“Captain Condor”)

    David Chau, known as Captain Condor, is a full-time options trader who has gained recognition for his market-moving trades. As the founder of InsideOptions, he leads an exclusive educational community of traders and offers educational content to help individual investors navigate the complex world of options trading. Additionally, he manages the SPX Program Fund LP, an independent investment vehicle for accredited investors focused on institutional-grade options strategies. His trading approach, focused on the Iron Condor strategy, has made him one of the most influential retail traders in the market today.

    For more information, visit www.insideoptions.io.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Epiq and BigHand Partner to Launch New Integrated Business Transformation Solution for Law Firms and Legal Departments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Epiq announced today a partnership with BigHand to launch a new integrated solution that seamlessly tracks outsourced business services.

    The workflow management application is currently being adopted by two Am Law 10 law firms with others in the pipeline. These organizations are now able to optimize resource allocation, improve productivity, and maintain a synchronized workflow ecosystem across departments.

    Epiq and BigHand have developed an API integration that enables BigHand’s Workflow Management to work seamlessly with Epiq’s workflow system, Epiq Connect. This seamless connection enables law firms and corporate legal departments to partner more effectively with Epiq service teams by submitting and tracking requests for contracted business transformation services. This collaboration enhances how legal teams delegate, manage, and measure support services—all in one connected experience. The solution accomplishes the following:

    • Improves efficiency, accountability, and turnaround times across legal support workflows
    • Delivers robust task-level reporting and operational transparency
    • Unifies the strength of both platforms and service expertise

    The partnership will also provide organizations using Epiq Connect with financial metrics and analysis through BigHand’s warehousing and dashboarding capabilities. This collaboration is designed to give clients the latest tools and resources, ensuring legal experts make data-led decisions on staffing, training, and resource deployment. Having objective performance data across internal and external teams is game-changing for organizations looking to maximize client service and drive efficiency.

    “The Epiq and BigHand partnership empowers organizations to leverage strategic, data-driven decision-making to drive operational innovation and unlock cost efficiencies,” said Michelle Connolly, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Solutions at Epiq. “While we’ve partnered with BigHand through mutual clients for years, this new integration will enable a more proactive approach across our shared customer bases and provide unmatched efficiency and insight. This enables Epiq to continue building a roadmap that aligns with our clients’ evolving needs – today and into the future.”

    The integration streamlines processes reducing manual effort and ensures real-time visibility into operational functions. By leveraging this integration, clients can automate the exchange of workflow data, like service requests, between the two systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy in task assignment, status updates, and reporting. The technology provides valuable data for the following services:

    • Document production
    • Copier and printer services
    • Courier services
    • Inbound package management
    • Word processing
    • Facilities management services
    • Records and information governance services
    • Supply management services
    • Technology services

    “Supporting our clients is at the heart of everything we do,” said Eric Wangler, Global Legal President of BigHand. “Many of our workflow clients use outsourcing partners like Epiq, and the demand for the seamless transfer of work and data on that work has continued to increase. Epiq’s desire to have the API connection for our technology will be a big value-add for our mutual clients and future clients alike. Our partners are essential to our success, helping us produce and support better outcomes for our clients across the world.”

    Epiq’s business transformation team is entrusted by hundreds of clients worldwide, including 91 of the top 100 law firms, to drive organizational and operational innovation. This business process outsourcing is provided through highly skilled subject matter experts, proven best practices, and advanced technology solutions.

    To stay connected to these industry trends, register for the webinar “Time for Change: How Data-Driven Firms Are Solving Workflow Challenges,” on June 4, 2025 at 11am ET. In this webinar, BigHand and Epiq will provide strategic insights into the state of the industry, drawing from the 2025 BigHand Legal Workflow report, which examines the challenges, themes, and focus areas currently faced by law firms.

    About Epiq
    Epiq, a technology and services leader, takes on large-scale and complex tasks for corporate legal departments, law firms, and business professionals by integrating people, process, technology, and data. Clients rely on Epiq to streamline legal and compliance, settlement, and business administration workflows to drive efficiency, minimize risk, and improve cost savings. With a presence in 19 countries, our values define who we are and how we partner with clients and communities. Learn how Epiq’s approximately 8,000 people worldwide create meaningful change at www.epiqglobal.com. 

    About BigHand 
    BigHand is a leading global provider of technology solutions for busy legal professionals that gives data and insights to increase value and profits​. BigHand’s technology helps law firms to identify improvements across lawyer & support staff, document production, financial performance, and matter pricing. BigHand enables firms to give their customers a better experience while empowering their people to be their best. The challenges facing law firm professionals are bigger than ever. Understanding which areas to focus on and how to drive change simply, while looking after your clients, is not easy. BigHand’s team of experts work with 4,200 global law firms, including 82% of Am Law 200 and 83% of UK Top 200, to help solve these challenges. For more information, visit BigHand.com.

    Press Contact
    Carrie Trent
    Epiq, Senior Director of Communications and Public Relations
    Carrie.Trent@epiqglobal.com

    Briana McCrory,
    BigHand Chief Marketing Officer
    Briana.mccrory@bighand.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Eyes $100K: BexBack Calls on Traders to Ride the Bull Market with 100x Leverage and Zero KYC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin steadily approaches the historic $100,000 milestone, analysts and investors alike are turning increasingly bullish on the next phase of the crypto market. With momentum building across the industry, BexBack, a fast-growing cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, is urging global traders to seize the opportunity using 100x leverage, no-KYC trading, and exclusive deposit bonuses.

    Offering perpetual contracts on 50+ major cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, and ADA, BexBack is positioning itself as the go-to platform for those looking to maximize gains in the upcoming bull run.

    “The market is heating up again, and we believe traders deserve the right tools to take full advantage of it,” said David, Operations Director at BexBack. “With high leverage, zero spread, and no identity checks, we’re removing the barriers between our users and their trading potential.”

    Why Now Is the Time to Trade on BexBack

    • Bitcoin Nears $100,000
      With BTC on track to break six figures, the market is entering a new bullish phase — ideal for leveraged trading strategies.
    • 100x Leverage on 50+ Crypto Pairs
      Amplify positions across BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and other top altcoins with up to 100x leverage.
    • No KYC Required
      Get started instantly with just an email address. Trade anonymously and freely without verification delays.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus
      Double your trading power. BexBack matches your first deposit dollar-for-dollar (used as margin only).
    • $100 Trading Bonus
      Make a deposit of 0.01 BTC or 1000 USDT and receive $100 to jumpstart your trading journey.
    • Zero Spread & Deep Liquidity
      Trades are executed without price difference between buying and selling — no slippage, no hidden costs.
    • Risk-Free Demo Account
      Practice and test strategies with 10 BTC or 1M USDT in virtual funds.

    The Bull Run Is Here — Trade It Smart

    With the market showing renewed strength and Bitcoin leading the charge, leveraged trading offers unmatched capital efficiency. BexBack’s platform is built to help both seasoned traders and ambitious newcomers ride the waves of the crypto bull market — all while maintaining full control and privacy.

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a global crypto derivatives trading platform offering up to 100x leverage on perpetual contracts for 50+ digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore and fully compliant with U.S. FinCEN MSB regulations, BexBack combines security, speed, and simplicity for traders around the world. With no KYC requirement, powerful bonuses, and institutional-grade infrastructure, BexBack is redefining the next generation of crypto trading.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

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

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4f491764-a3f6-4ee7-8f00-8efe053f4b2b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cb1451cb-bf38-4a8d-bb38-cdfc7136f539

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b1935621-1a2c-47e1-af44-994e63d735ac

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2763ecea-6b93-49fd-a4c4-b655f2fd2eda

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TAB Bank Named ‘Best Community Bank’ in the Utah Best of State Awards for the Third Consecutive Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OGDEN, Utah, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For the third consecutive year, TAB Bank has been named ‘Best Community Bank’ in the 2025 Utah Best of State Awards. TAB will be honored at the Best of State Gala on Tuesday, June 10, at the Salt Palace Grand Ballroom in Salt Lake City.

    Best of State celebrates Utah’s most outstanding individuals, businesses and organizations that demonstrate excellence in their fields, embrace innovation and contribute to the state’s quality of life. TAB Bank was recognized by Best of State judges for its commitment to community and social responsibility and for delivering exceptional financial products and solutions to businesses, families and individuals nationwide.

    TAB Bank recently unveiled a refreshed vision: “Building value in all we do.” With this renewed focus, the bank aims to advance its mission of “Unlocking dreams with bold financial solutions that lift and empower.” In alignment with this vision, the bank achieved several milestones in the past year:

    • Launched TAB Spend, a checking account offering high-yield interest and cash back rewards on everyday purchases, resulting in a 37% increase in Total Consumer Deposits from 2023.
    • Offered TAB Save, one of the most competitive high-yield savings accounts available, peaking at 5.27% APY (Annual Percentage Yield) and currently offering 4.26% APY, 10x the national average.
    • More than doubled the Small Business Lending Portfolio over the past two years.
    • Surpassed 2023’s revenue by 11%.
    • Recognized as a Top 10 Best Online Bank for 2025 by GOBankingRates.
    • Produced a Super Bowl LIX ad for TAB Spend, reaching 1.2 million viewers, driving a 103% surge in Google searches and a 343% spike in website traffic.
    • Provided $65 million in community development loans, investments and grants.
    • Donated over $80,000 to community organizations.
    • Supported more than 30 local foundations/non-profit organizations.
    • Host and Title Sponsor of the Ogden Rescue Mission Charity Golf Tournament which has raised $540,000 since its inception in 2001 to provide 185,000 meals and other critical services for individuals in need across Northern Utah.
    • Contributed nearly 2,000 hours of community service.

    “We’re incredibly excited about our third win as Utah’s Best Community Bank,” said Austin Strong, CEO of TAB Bank. “This recognition results from TAB’s extraordinary people, excellent operations and exceptional customer experience. We remain dedicated to building the best financial products and services and are deeply grateful to the individuals, families and businesses across Utah who trust TAB Bank every day.”

    About TAB Bank
    At TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to making financial success accessible to everyone through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 25 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience. 

    For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.

    Contact Information:
    Trevor Morris
    Director of Marketing
    801-710-6318
    trevor.morris@tabbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Earn Passive Income Easily with ZA Miner Crypto Cloud Mining Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZA Miner offers secure and easy crypto cloud mining with flexible contracts, allowing users to earn passive income and grow their crypto holdings with minimal effort.

    Powering the future of crypto mining with ZA Miner.

    MIDDLESEX, United Kingdom, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZA Miner announces its entry into the growing market for reliable and consistent crypto yields. As demand for stable cryptocurrency income continues to rise, ZA Miner offers investors an opportunity to participate in cloud mining without the need for physical hardware. By utilizing efficient and secure infrastructure, ZA Miner helps investors earn steady returns with minimal effort and risk.

    ZA Miner: A Secure and Compliant Cloud Mining Solution

    ZA Miner is fully registered and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring that all operations adhere to the highest industry standards for financial security and compliance. The platform allows users to mine cryptocurrencies remotely via cloud computing, eliminating the need for expensive mining equipment. With a transparent and user-friendly interface, ZA Miner enables users to track their funds, withdraw profits, and enjoy the flexibility of converting their earnings at any time, all while keeping their assets safe and secure.

    How It Works: Simple, Transparent, and Accessible for All

    ZA Miner makes crypto cloud mining easy and accessible for both new and experienced investors:

    • Get Started with a Trial Credit – New users receive $150 in trial credit to experience the mining process firsthand.
    • Choose Flexible Mining Contracts – ZA Miner offers a range of cloud mining contracts designed to suit various budgets and investment goals.
    • Earn Stable Returns – With consistent payouts during the contract period, users can grow their crypto holdings steadily and effortlessly.
    • Transparent Contract Terms – Potential profits are clearly displayed in each contract, empowering users to make informed decisions tailored to their financial objectives.

    Discover the potential daily returns with various ZA Miner contracts.

    A New Opportunity in the Crypto Market

    As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, ZA Miner presents a solid and reliable option for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. With its regulated status, easy-to-use platform, and low entry barriers, ZA Miner has quickly become a preferred choice for those seeking to explore new revenue streams in crypto.

    Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just beginning your crypto journey, ZA Miner offers an efficient, secure, and hassle-free way to tap into the crypto mining industry.

    For more information or to start mining with ZA Miner today, visit www.zaminer.com.

    About ZA Miner

    ZA Miner is a secure and compliant crypto cloud mining platform regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It offers flexible mining contracts for users to participate in the crypto mining industry with ease and transparency, providing steady returns while ensuring asset safety.

    Media Contact:
    SHEIKH, Anisah Fatema
    ZA FUNDINGS LTD
    info@zaminer.com
    https://www.zaminer.com/

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7d1077fc-c782-417e-8720-aae9e0a3e981

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/28890338-1e73-494c-a060-42ff6636540f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Ministry: China aims to become the engine of global economic growth

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — China will pursue high-level opening up to the outside world, win-win cooperation and become an engine of global economic growth, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Thursday.

    Lin Jian made the remarks while commenting at the request of the media on the opinion that the resilience of the Chinese economy allows it to withstand various external shocks, and the viability of the Chinese economy during the May Day holiday seemed to have completely dispelled concerns about the country’s economic prospects.

    “The rapid growth in consumption during the holiday reflects the vitality and potential of the Chinese economy,” Lin Jian said, adding that the average daily number of foreign nationals entering and leaving the country during the five-day May Day holiday was about 1.1 million, up 43.1 percent year-on-year, while sales of travel packages to China increased by about 90 percent during the period.

    “Measures to increase institutional openness are being translated into practical attractiveness for foreign tourists,” he added.

    Lin Jian noted that indicators such as foreign buyer attendance and record pre-export transactions at the recently concluded Guangzhou Fair demonstrate the international business community’s continued optimism about the long-term development of China’s economy.

    “Temporary fluctuations will neither sink the giant ship of the Chinese economy nor stop the Chinese people’s aspiration for a better life,” Lin Jian stressed, adding that China has always been committed to a policy of high-level opening up, win-win cooperation, and is striving to become the engine of global economic growth. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Catch the High-Speed Action Again! American Rebel Light Beer NHRA 4-Wide Nationals Replay on FS1 – May 8, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Buckle up, crack open a cold American Rebel Light Beer, and get ready for pure NHRA excitement on the FS1 telecast!

    Nashville, TN, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is excited to announce that racing fans get another chance to witness the adrenaline-pumping excitement of NHRA’s 4-Wide Nationals, presented by American Rebel Light Beer, airing Thursday, May 8, 2025, on FS1’s NHRA Sportsman Series (check your local listings). Total combined television audience viewership was over 700,000 on the original broadcasts and is expected to exceed 900,000 viewers once the audience totals are finalized.

    Following a record-breaking weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s zMAX Dragway (April 25–27, 2025), viewers can relive the historic 1,000th Top Fuel race, featuring four-wide drag racing at speeds over 300 mph – the fastest accelerating machines on the planet! American Rebel Light Beer, America’s fastest growing beer was featured prominently as the title sponsor and is a perfect match with the NHRA and our sponsorship with TSR Nitro Racing (tsrnitro.com).

    What to Expect on FS1 NHRA Sportsman Series Replay:

    • Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
    • Network: FS1
    • Featured Racing: Super Stock, Stock Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, and Top Sportsman

    American Rebel Light Beer: A Bold and Growing Presence in Motorsports

    The official title sponsorship of the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals marked a major milestone for American Rebel Light Beer, reinforcing its event-driven, patriotic brand identity. The beer’s trackside activations, promotional tents, and sampling stations helped expand its presence in North Carolina, fueling racing fans with America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    Marketing Highlights:

    • Original Broadcast Audience: Nearly 700,000 viewers
    • Expected Final Viewership: Up to 1 million, including FS1 Sportsman Series replays
    • NHRA Social Media Reach: Over 9.2 million impressions
    • Live Concert Experience: American Rebel CEO Andy Ross performed a patriotic rock ‘n’ roll show between Nitro Qualifying Sessions

    Don’t Miss the Replay and look for the American Rebel Light Funny Car driven by Matt Hagan and the American Rebel Light Pro Stock Motorcycle driven by John Hall. Tune in Thursday, May 8, 2025, on FS1, and experience the raw horsepower, side-by-side battles, and all-American racing energy of NHRA’s Sportsman Series, powered by American Rebel Light Beer.

    American Rebel Light Funny Car

    The American Rebel Light Funny Car, driven by four-time NHRA Funny Car champion Matt Hagan, is a high-horsepower, American-made beast that embodies the bold, patriotic spirit of American Rebel Light Beer.

    Car Specs & Performance:

    • Supercharged Hemi engine, pushing over 11,000 horsepower
    • Capable of 330+ MPH in under 4 seconds
    • Patriotic design wrap, featuring American Rebel Light Beer’s bold branding
    • Drew massive fan engagement with trackside meet & greets, beer promotions, and live music from American Rebel CEO Andy Ross

    With Matt Hagan behind the wheel, the American Rebel Light Funny Car isn’t just a race car—it’s a high-speed symbol of freedom, power, and unapologetic American pride just like American Rebel Light Beer.

    Fast, fearless, and fueled by the spirit of American Rebel Light Beer—this Funny Car is built to win!

    American Rebel Light Pro Stock Motorcycle

    The American Rebel Pro Stock Motorcycle, piloted by John Hall, is a high-performance, all-American machine built for speed, power, and precision on the NHRA drag racing circuit.

    Bike Specs & Performance:

    • V-Twin engine, delivering high-horsepower acceleration
    • Capable of 6-second quarter-mile runs at speeds exceeding 200 mph
    • Wrapped in the American Rebel Light Beer brand symbolizing bold, stand-your-ground energy

    NHRA Sportsman Series

    • The NHRA Sportsman Series on FS1 features Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series events, showcasing amateur and semi-professional racers competing in various sportsman-level categories. These races include Super Stock, Stock Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, and Top Sportsman, among others.
    • FS1 and FS2 air NHRA Sportsman Series events throughout the season, often as part of NHRA national event weekends. The broadcasts highlight grassroots drag racing, giving fans a look at up-and-coming drivers and regional competitors.
    • For the 2025 season, FS1 is scheduled to air multiple NHRA Sportsman Series events.

    About American Rebel Light:

    American Rebel Light is more than just a beer—it’s a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for every occasion.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its sponsorship of the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals, visit American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals | Events | Charlotte Motor Speedway or follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer

    Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida and Indiana and is adding new distributors and territories regularly. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit americanrebelbeer.com or follow us on our social media platforms.

    Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a domestic premium light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com

    American Rebel Beverages, LLC
    Todd Porter, President
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of a launch party, actual launch timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contact:
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com
    info@americanrebel.com

    For more details on American Rebel Light Beer and upcoming events, visit www.AmericanRebelBeer.com or follow @AmericanRebelBeer on social media.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Senate Colleagues Slam Social Security for Improperly Declaring Thousands Dead, Call for Watchdog Investigation 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Trump Administration abused Death Master File to purge at least 6,300 Social Security numbers–including children and seniors 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, this week joined 11 Senate colleagues in slamming the Social Security Administration (SSA) for transferring thousands of Social Security numbers associated with immigrants to SSA’s Death Master File, marking them as dead to pressure ‘self-deportation,’ and demanded the agency’s watchdog launch a full investigation into the decision.  
    In their letter, the Senators emphasize that the Trump Administration’s actions exploit Social Security’s Death Master File to terminate social security numbers of living individuals without full due process violates several federal laws, including the Privacy Act, as well as bedrock constitutional rights. Even Trump’s lawyers reportedly agreed that Social Security’s actions violated the Privacy Act.  
    “This decision will result in the ‘financial murder’ of living individuals improperly placed in the file, with everything from their credit cards and banking to their ability to access healthcare and housing being ripped out from under them,” the Senators wrote in the letters to Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek and Social Security Assistant Inspector General for Audit Michelle Anderson.  
    The Senators also called on the SSA Office of the Inspector General to launch a full investigation into the agency’s decision to begin using the Death Master File for this purpose, including how an individual gets targeted, who at the agency has decision making authority, and how those who have their SSNs nullified through this process can get it fixed if there is a mistake. 
    The Trump Administration’s abuse of Social Security’s centerpiece role in America’s economy sets a dangerous precedent of allowing the government to rip away workers’ access to their earned Social Security benefits while threatening the security of all Americans. 
    “The purpose of SSA is to provide for the welfare of number-holders and their dependents, not to serve as an arm of President Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda. This move degrades the solvency, reliability, and accuracy of SSA systems and programs. It is as cruel as it is thoughtless– the impact will be felt in communities across the country and in the future of SSA programs themselves,” the Senators concluded in one of their letters to SSA. 
    In addition to Senators Welch and Wyden, the letter was signed by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Angus King (I-Maine), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore).  
    Read and download the full text of the letter to SSA Acting Commissioner Dudek. 
    Read and download the full text of the letter to SSA Assistant Inspector General for Audit Anderson. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: How the Industry of Drones is Evolving Rapidly with New Trends and Technologies Emerging Regularly

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Experts in the drone industry are excited about its future. One such player said: “As we soar into a new era of technological innovation, drones are rapidly becoming a significant part of our everyday lives. From aerial photography to package delivery and from environmental monitoring to emergency response, drones are revolutionizing numerous industries.” They continued: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront of drone technology advancements. Companies… are leading the way in this area with drones that can navigate complex environments autonomously using AI.  The market for AI in drones is expected to grow significantly, impacting sectors like agriculture, construction, and security. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the market size for drones with AI is expected to grow from $2.1 billion in 2022 to $6.5 billion by 2027. The trend towards increased autonomy in drone technology is gaining momentum.  Companies are developing drones that can perform complex tasks without human intervention, such as detecting leaks, inspecting pipelines, and even charging themselves. This increased autonomy is expected to boost efficiency and productivity in various sectors, including agriculture, construction, and logistics. For example, autonomous drones can be used for precision agriculture, where they can monitor crop health, apply fertilizers, and even harvest crops. The enormous commercial potential is why the global precision agriculture market size is expected to reach $19.24 billion by 2030.”   Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONDS), Palladyne AI Corp. (NASDAQ: PDYN), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT).

    MarketsandMarkets added: “Drone swarming, the coordinated operation of multiple drones, is another emerging trend. Each drone in a swarm operates autonomously yet in harmony with the others, allowing the swarm to cover larger areas and perform tasks more efficiently than a single drone. Companies… are pioneering this technology, using it to create stunning light shows at live events. However, the potential applications of drone swarming extend far beyond entertainment. For example, in search and rescue operations, a swarm of drones can cover a large area to search for signs of life, allowing rescue teams to locate and reach victims more quickly. This technology could prove invaluable in the aftermath of natural disasters, where time is of the essence. The world of drones is evolving rapidly, with new trends and technologies emerging regularly. These advancements are opening up new applications and markets, from agriculture and construction to healthcare and entertainment. As we continue to explore the potential of these versatile machines, it’s clear that drones will play an increasingly important role in our future.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Tests Proprietary Camera Enabling IQ Nano Drone Swarms for US Defense Applications and Blue UAS Submission – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces that its subsidiary ZenaDrone is testing a new proprietary specialized camera that enables more efficient indoor applications such as inventory and security management, when utilizing IQ Nano drone swarms for commercial and US defense applications. The new camera prototype developed by its Taiwan component manufacturing subsidiary, Spider Vision Sensors, in collaboration with its certified electronics manufacturing partner, Suntek Global, will enable faster and more precise collection of data including multiple bar codes simultaneously scanned by multiple drones in a drone swarm. The company plans to apply for Blue UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) certification that lists and validates drones for military and government use.

    “Our Spider Vision Sensors subsidiary in collaboration with Suntek Global, has helped us speed up development of customized and specialized cameras required for our innovative drone swarm applications for commercial and defense customers. This partnership will continue to be invaluable as we develop our NDAA-compliant supply chain and received Blue UAS certification which will allow military and federal agencies to directly purchase our drones.,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    Military and Defense departments use small autonomous indoor drones like the 10X10 inch IQ Nano for various applications such as inventory management, indoor building reconnaissance, search and rescue, training simulations, and explosives detection. ZenaDrone is also engaged in a paid trial which includes developing drone swarm applications for inventory management and security applications with a multinational auto parts manufacturer customer.

    A drone swarm is a coordinated group of autonomous drones that communicate and work together using AI and real-time data sharing, to perform tasks collaboratively without direct human control. Drone swarms enhance efficiency, accuracy, automation, and performance compared to a single drone. Autonomous drones can rapidly scan thousands of bar codes or RFID tags per second with high accuracy, providing real-time visibility into inventory without disrupting workflows. A drone swarm can also cover more ground simultaneously, dramatically reducing inventory audit times and manual labour while providing near-total inventory visibility.

    An AI drone swarm for indoor security and surveillance enhances coverage, response time, and efficiency by autonomously patrolling large areas, detecting threats, and providing real-time situational awareness. Unlike stationary cameras or human patrols, drone swarms can dynamically adapt to security breaches, track intruders, and coordinate movements to eliminate blind spots. AI-driven analytics enable them to identify anomalies, recognize faces, and detect unauthorized activity with high precision, reducing false alarms and improving security decision-making. Their autonomous nature minimizes human labor costs while ensuring 24/7 monitoring in complex environments like warehouses, data centers, or commercial facilities.

    The ZenaDrone IQ Nano is available in 10×10 and 20×20-inch sizes, designed to perform regular and frequent inspections such as bar code or RFID scanning, facility maintenance inspections, security monitoring, 3D indoor mapping and other applications inside a warehouse, distribution, or plant facility. It is designed for autonomous use featuring integrated sensors, high-quality cameras, data collection and analysis including AI methodologies. Weighing 1.5kg and with a flight time of at least 20 minutes before utilizing the automatic battery recharging station, it is designed for hovering stability and safety with obstacle avoidance capabilities.   Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    In Additional ZENA News: ZenaTech’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) Expands Ireland Office Offering Drone as a Service (DaaS) Including Precision Agriculture to a European Market Growing at 28.6% Annually – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces it will be expanding operations and opening a new, larger office and its European Headquarters in Dublin, Ireland. The new hub will facilitate the Company’s drone sales and DaaS drone services — including precision agriculture solutions — to a growing UK and European market. The Company anticipates the official grand opening during the summer of 2025.

    Strategically located near Dublin Airport and accessible via all major motorways, the new office location will serve a growing customer base in Ireland and enable growth across Europe, catering to agriculture as well as construction, renewable energy — including wind and solar farms — golf courses, racecourses, and warehouse and logistics.

    “Expanding our Dublin office and establishing a European HQ marks a new chapter in our strategy to scale our drones and DaaS offerings globally while servicing the fastest growing agricultural drone markets located in Europe. Our AI-powered drone solutions are designed to boost crop yields while reducing operational costs and provide smart, data-driven insights — empowering crop monitoring and health assessment, nutrient and resource optimization, and profitability,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    The European agricultural drone market was valued at approximately USD 4.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 43.23 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.58% according to Market Data Forecast . This growth is fueled by the adoption of drones for crop spraying, mapping, pest control, seeding, and remote sensing, which enhance productivity and resource efficiency in farming. Growth is also supported by favorable European government policies and a strong focus on sustainable farming practices.    Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.zenatech.com/newsroom/

    Other recent developments in the drone industry include:

    To meet the emerging air threats of today and the rapidly evolving threats of tomorrow, AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) recently announced Titan 4, the next generation of its battle-proven, warfighter-trusted Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) technology. Titan 4 is a smaller, lighter, more powerful, highly extensible Radio Frequency (RF)-based solution to detect and defeat Group 1 and 2 drone threats.

    Titan 4 is portable and mission-adaptable—supporting mobile, dismounted, or fixed-site use—and can deploy in under five minutes to identify and neutralize threats, creating a protective dome around personnel and infrastructure. Titan 4 is 17% lighter and 73% smaller than its dual-chassis predecessor, now integrated into a single compact chassis as compared to its dual-chassis predecessor. It offers nearly 250% more transmit power with 540W of total output over six RF bands to address both current and emerging threats. For enhanced airspace awareness, AV has integrated its Titan-SV system within Titan 4 to provide operators with AI/ML-backed passive, long-range precision threat detection.

    Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONDS), a leading provider of private industrial wireless networks and commercial drone and automated data solutions, recently announced it has secured a $3.4 million order for its Iron Drone Raider Counter-UAS system from renowned European defense contractor for their governmental end client. This marks the initial deployment of the Iron Drone Raider in Europe and represents a major milestone in the global expansion of Ondas’ counter-UAS business.

    “Ongoing geopolitical instability and the rapid proliferation of hostile drone technologies have intensified the urgency for effective counter-UAS capabilities across NATO-aligned and partner nations,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas. “This order reflects the rising global demand for autonomous aerial defense systems that can be rapidly deployed, scaled, and adapted to modern threat environments. Iron Drone Raider delivers a differentiated solution for military and homeland security operators charged with safeguarding critical infrastructure and civilian populations from increasingly sophisticated aerial threats.”

    Palladyne AI Corp. (NASDAQ: PDYN), a developer of artificial intelligence software for robotic platforms in the defense and commercial sectors, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently announced a significant testing milestone in their ongoing collaboration—the completion of an autonomous, cross-platform collaborative flight involving three diverse heterogeneous drones.

    During this most recent testing, which leveraged Red Cat’s Teal 2 and Black Widow drones and the Palladyne™ Pilot AI software, each platform operated using onboard edge computing and constrained communication protocols without reliance on centralized infrastructure to communicate. The system enabled real-time, distributed detection and tracking of multiple dynamic and static ground objects—including humans and vehicles—in different regions of interest, providing a single operator with comprehensive situational awareness. The two companies previously announced a successful two-drone flight operation in January 2025, and Palladyne AI announced a single-drone testing scenario in December 2024 to autonomously identify, prioritize, and track terrestrial targets.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

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

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may,” “future,” “plan” or “planned,” “will” or “should,” “expected,” “anticipates,” “draft,” “eventually” or “projected.” You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New reports examine the economic and social impacts of nuclear decommissioning in Scotland A new study led by the National Decommissioning Centre, in collaboration with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), shows that Scotland’s £25 billion nuclear decommissioning programme could deliver significant long-term economic and social benefits at both national and local levels over the next 90 years and beyond.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    A new study led by the National Decommissioning Centre, in collaboration with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), shows that Scotland’s £25 billion nuclear decommissioning programme could deliver significant long-term economic and social benefits at both national and local levels over the next 90 years and beyond.
    The research has highlighted potential economy-wide gains in employment, skills development, household income and consumption offering a positive outlook for communities impacted by the decommissioning process. The study has helped inform politicians and key policy makers on the opportunities and has contributed to the formation of a cross-party committee on nuclear decommissioning in the Scottish Parliament.
    As part of the wider project, the University of Aberdeen’s Just Transition Lab carried out a complementary study to build clear linkages on the broader debates on the Just Transition and report on how local communities in Caithness view the decommissioning process at Dounreay.
    As one of the UK’s key nuclear decommissioning sites, Dounreay plays a crucial role in the NDA’s long-term efforts to safely decommission early nuclear facilities. It has been a stable employer since it was established in the 1950s but the decommissioning process brings uncertainty for the surrounding communities about the future.
    This part of the study found that there are significant impacts of winding down the anchor institution central to high-skilled and high-income employment in the region and that there is a need for a Just Transition in the area. The report found that there is a lack of clarity on how this will be achieved.
    Interviews were carried out with residents and stakeholders in Caithness and North Sutherland directly impacted by decommissioning at Dounreay. The responses were that the issues are compounded by underinvestment in essential infrastructure, rural depopulation, and remoteness. At the same time, the presence of the skilled workforce as well as the increased interest in the region’s renewable energy resources means that decommissioning can be a driver for building future skills and capacities for economic diversification and local resilience.
    Just Transition Lab researchers examined the policy framework of a Just Transition, focusing on how the decommissioning processes align with national and regional visions for a net zero focused economy, how the process of change is engaging with community aspirations for the local economy, and how the policy drivers for a Just Transition are recreated in a remote rural community that faces significant change.
    The researchers also conducted key informant interviews to examine the impacts of decommissioning at Dounreay and the increasing onshore and offshore wind production in Caithness on the local community.
    The findings underscore the necessity for a timely and coordinated approach to regional socio-economic planning in Caithness and North Sutherland. A key aspect of the study is the development of a Just Transition indicator framework tailored to Caithness and North Sutherland. Despite some uncertainties, stakeholders view the decommissioning process as a stabilising force for the region, highlighting its potential to mitigate socio-economic disruptions.
    Dr Daria Shapovalova from the Just Transition Lab said: “This research provides a much-needed framework for planning a Just Transition in regions undergoing significant change. It’s a crucial step toward ensuring that local communities are not left behind in the shift to a sustainable, low-carbon economy. Just Transition context means not only the continuation of employment in the energy sector but also wider community impacts in health and wellbeing, housing, transport and more.”
    Malcolm Stone from the National Decommissioning Centre said: “Whilst it is recognised that the energy sector is undergoing a transition, how the transition will be a ‘just’ one for society is understood less. By considering the impact of decommissioning at the Dounreay facility in Caithness, this far sighted research commissioned by the NDA provides valuable evidence to aid decision makers and the wider community in understanding the complexities of the energy transition, highlighting opportunities for employment, economic diversification and societal impacts.”
    Heather Barton NDA said: “It has been great to engage with another area of the University of Aberdeen, the Just Transition Lab, through our partnership with the NDC. A real strength of working with the NDC is that there are numerous areas where we can collaborate to achieve our goals of decommissioning the UK’s nuclear sites safely, securely, sustainably and cost effectively. This study will help inform politicians and policy makers on key economic development opportunities and enable discussions around support for communities including skills and training.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Jamaica: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 8, 2025

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

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

    Kingston, Jamaica: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Mauricio Villafuerte held meetings in Kingston (and virtually) with Jamaica government counterparts, private sector, civil society, and development partners during April 30-May 7 to conduct the 2025 Article IV consultation. At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Villafuerte issued the following statement:   

    “Over the last decade, Jamaica has successfully reduced its public debt, firmly anchored inflation and inflation expectations, and strengthened its external position. It has built an enviable track record of investing in institutions and prioritizing macroeconomic stability. Jamaica has met recent global shocks and natural disasters in a manner that is agile, prudent, and supportive of growth.

    GDP declined in FY2024/25 due to hurricane Beryl and tropical storm Raphael which damaged agriculture and infrastructure and undermined tourism. Nonetheless,  economic activity is projected to normalize as these effects wane. Unemployment has fallen to all-time low levels (3.7 percent in January 2025) and inflation has converged to the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ)’s target band of 4-6 percent. The current account has been in a modest surplus for the last two fiscal years with strong tourism revenues and high remittances. The international reserves’ position has continued to improve.

    “The outlook points to growth settling at its potential rate once the FY2025/26 recovery is complete and with inflation stabilizing at the BOJ’s target range. Nonetheless, global developments require continued close monitoring. Global downside risks emanating from tighter global financial conditions, lower growth in key source markets for tourism, and trade policy disruptions remain high. Finally, extreme weather events—such as floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes—could negatively affect economic activity.

    “The Jamaican authorities continue to implement sound macroeconomic policies, aided by robust policy frameworks. A primary surplus is expected for FY2025/26 leading public debt to fall towards 65 percent of GDP by the end of the fiscal year, the lowest level in 25 years and well below pre-pandemic levels. The Bank of Jamaica’s approach to monetary policy has anchored inflation around the mid-point of the inflation target band and inflation expectations have declined close to the upper band of the BOJ’s target range. The lowering of the policy rate in 2024 was justified in view of the temporary nature of the weather-related shocks and the expected convergence of inflation to the BOJ’s target. The current fiscal-monetary policy mix places Jamaica in a good position to respond to the various downside global risks, should they be realized.

    “The policy frameworks are benefitting from ongoing improvements. A Fiscal Commission became operational in 2025 and is providing assessments of the macroeconomic and fiscal forecasts as well as the budget’s consistency with Jamaica’s fiscal rules. The wage bill reform has reduced distortions in public sector compensation, increasing both transparency and competitiveness of civil service salaries. Tax and customs administration improvements are increasing compliance. Progress continues with adopting the Basel III framework, introducing a “twin peaks” supervisory regime, expanding the BOJ’s supervisory perimeter, and enhancing consolidated supervision.

    “Going forward the wage bill needs to be carefully managed to avoid crowding out other fiscal priorities. At the same time, there is room to improve the efficiency of public spending per recommendations of an Agile Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability assessment completed in June 2024. The fiscal responsibility law could benefit from the adoption of an explicit operational debt anchor below the current debt limit to help guide policies over the medium term, ensure that debt is kept at moderate levels, and build fiscal buffers. Implementing reforms to deepen foreign exchange market and allow greater exchange rate flexibility would strengthen the transmission mechanism of monetary policy. Financial stability should be further bolstered by passing the Special Resolution Regime law and making further improvements to the AML/CFT framework.

    “The authorities are implementing policies to foster potential growth and tackle supply side constraints that inhibit growth. Low productivity has been worsened by structural impediments including high crime, barriers to competition, poor educational outcomes, inadequate infrastructure, and barriers to trade. The authorities are addressing these issues by increasing investments in policing and security (which has led to a sustained decline in major crimes). Efforts are also underway to establish an unemployment insurance and strengthen employment services (including job counseling and job matching). The authorities continue to introduce measures to reduce pollution and incentivize the adoption of low carbon technologies. Finally, a comprehensive action plan is being developed to improve statistics.  

    “The IMF team is grateful to the Jamaican authorities and other counterparts for their hospitality and very productive discussions.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Brian Walker

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/08/mcs-05072025-jamaica-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Chinese research isn’t taken as seriously as papers from elsewhere – my new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Peng Zhou, Professor of Economics, Cardiff University

    My new research suggests there is a stubborn pattern in academic publishing. My co-author and I examined some 8,000 articles published in the world’s most reputable economics journals to study citations, which are where academics cite previously published research in their papers. We found papers whose lead author had a Chinese surname received on average 14% fewer citations than comparable papers written by those with a non-Chinese name.

    This supports similar findings from previous studies in chemistry and other natural sciences, suggesting that citation prejudice is a cross-disciplinary problem.

    In reaching that conclusion, we put our raw findings through every test we could think of to rule out other explanations. Our first thought was that maybe Chinese-authored papers are more recently published on average than non-Chinese-authored papers, and therefore less cited. However the same citation gap holds for papers published in all years.

    Average citations of economic articles by author ethnicity:

    Another obvious guess is that Chinese-authored papers are of lower quality. Some readers will have heard about the issue of China’s “paper mills”, companies which have in recent years been churning out research papers based on fraudulent findings for Chinese universities. There are reports that this may have made some western academics more reluctant to take Chinese research seriously, but these are largely a problem for low-quality journals.

    We only looked at articles published in the top journals (rated as 4 or 4* in the ABS journal rankings). Each paper has gone through a strict process of editorial review, often taking a couple of years, so they are far less likely to have been produced by high-volume paper mills. Additionally, almost half of the Chinese authors in our sample were affiliated outside China, so paper-mill allegations against Chinese authors are not relevant in our observations.

    Alternatively, you may be wondering if Chinese authors’ papers are less citable because of a language barrier in the writing. Again, this shouldn’t be an issue when all these papers which have been strictly quality-assured by peer reviews and editorial reviews. The writing styles of Chinese authors in these journals do not seem significantly different from non-Chinese authors.

    We probed still more possibilities to explain the apparent discrimination, controlling for different factors and so on. But each time, the citation gap persisted – and sometimes became larger.

    Eventually we gave up trying to falsify the hypothesis, and turned to understanding why this ethnic discrimination exists.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. Join The Conversation for free today.

    Why do economists discriminate?

    Picture the market for ideas as a miniature galaxy. Each paper is like a planet with its own mass, based on its quality, the authors’ stature and the perceived importance of the topic. Citations are like gravity, tugging knowledge towards these planets; the heavier the planet’s mass, the stronger the pull.

    Yet gravity also fades with distance, in this case meaning not kilometres but culture – language, networks and the subtle signals that tell us who feels familiar. It may be that the farther away a scholar seems on the cultural map, the weaker their intellectual pull.

    Our findings show this “cultural distance” at work. Interestingly, the same thing happens in both directions: the ratio of Chinese-authored references is significantly higher in Chinese-authored papers than in non-Chinese-authored papers.

    Our next step was some detective work to deduce who exactly is discriminating. We identified four “suspects”: journal editors, reviewers, publishers, and finally citers.

    If discrimination began with journal editors, they should only be publishing Chinese-led papers of comparably higher quality than other papers they publish. If so, you would expect these superior papers to be cited more, not less, which is at odds with the evidence.

    As for reviewers, most journals adopt a “double-blind” approach where reviewers and authors don’t know each other’s identities. If reviewers don’t know when they’re dealing with a Chinese author, they cannot be discriminating against them. Similarly, publishers are not usually allowed to intervene in editorial decisions, so they cannot be discriminating either.

    This leaves the citers as the main discriminators, those who read academic papers and cite them in their own work. To get a clearer picture of what is happening, we compared three pairs of subgroups: Chinese versus non-Chinese, top economists versus non-top economists, and those with US university affiliations versus non-US affiliations.

    We concluded that non-Chinese top economists from non-US institutions are the ones least likely to cite authors with Chinese surnames. This seems surprising given US rivalry with China, but actually it is a natural consequence. For US economists to study their biggest opponent, you would expect them to cite studies about China –and most are done by Chinese authors.

    Mitigating the discrimination

    One way of reducing the “Chineseness” of authorship is co-authoring with a non-Chinese academic. However in academic writing, a citation convention is that when a paper has over three authors, you only keep the surname of the first author (who is also the lead researcher). For example, a paper written by Zhang, Smith and Armstrong in 2025 will simply become “Zhang et al. (2025)”. Therefore bringing in more non-Chinese academics will make no difference.

    Another way of diluting “Chineseness” is for the lead author to become affiliated with a US institute. Per our study, this reduces the citation bias by 16%. However, obtaining such a US affiliation is not always feasible.

    This led us to conclude that the best way of reducing discrimination is to reduce the amount of author information in citations. For example, journals can request for citations to be by initials (“BG 1957”) or numeric codes (1, 2, 3), as market leaders like Nature already do. Journals can also use a digital object identifier (DOI), for example “10.1234/example.article”, instead of disclosing author names in published references.

    This may not solve the problem of papers not being cited in the first place, but it can reduce the likelihood of subsequent citation bias as readers no longer know the surnames of cited papers.

    Discrimination is self-sabotage. Each time we discount a paper because the surname feels “foreign”, we put the brakes on our own progress. This slows insight, muffles debate and leaves the world poorer in ideas.

    Peng Zhou 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. Chinese research isn’t taken as seriously as papers from elsewhere – my new study – https://theconversation.com/chinese-research-isnt-taken-as-seriously-as-papers-from-elsewhere-my-new-study-255794

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Decentralized finance is booming − and so are the security risks. My team surveyed nearly 500 crypto investors and uncovered the most common mistakes

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mingyi Liu, Ph.D. student in Computer Science, Georgia Institute of Technology

    When the first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, was proposed in 2008, the goal was simple: to create a digital currency free from banks and governments. Over time, that idea evolved into something much bigger: “decentralized finance,” or “DeFi.”

    With decentralized finance, people trade, borrow and earn interest on crypto assets without relying on traditional intermediaries. DeFi services run on blockchains, which are essentially digital ledgers, and use “smart contracts” − self-executing code that automates financial transactions. Tens of billions of dollars have poured into the DeFi market.

    But with innovation comes risks. The lack of centralized oversight has made crypto, including decentralized finance, a prime target for hackers and scammers. In 2024 alone, people lost nearly US$1.5 billion due to security exploits and fraud. And unlike traditional finance, there’s usually no way to recover stolen crypto.

    As a computer scientist, I wanted to better understand how people perceive and respond to these risks. So my colleagues and I first conducted in-depth interviews with 14 crypto investors, then surveyed nearly 500 others to validate our findings.

    Our study found that people often made the same mistakes, driven by recurring misconceptions and gaps in security awareness. Here are some of the most important.

    Mistake 1: Thinking the blockchain guarantees security

    Many people told us they thought decentralized finance was secure – but their reasoning wasn’t very convincing. Some seemed to confuse decentralized finance with blockchain technology itself, which is designed to ensure transactions are tamper-resistant through so-called “consensus mechanisms.” One told us that DeFi is secure “because a hacker would have to override an entire blockchain” to steal funds.

    But services on the blockchain are still vulnerable to implementation and design flaws. These include smart contract breaches, in which bad guys exploit bugs in a service’s code, and front-end attacks, where a user interface is altered to redirect funds into a hacker’s wallet. A front-end attack was reportedly to blame for a recent $1.5 billion crypto heist.

    CNBC reports on the record-breaking $1.5 billion crypto theft.

    Mistake 2: Thinking safe keys mean safe funds

    Another common misconception is that DeFi is secure if private keys are well stored. A private key is a secret code that allows someone to access their crypto assets. It’s true that in DeFi – unlike in centralized crypto finance where an exchange holds private keys – users have full control over their own private keys.

    But even with perfect private key management, users can still lose funds by interacting with compromised DeFi platforms. That’s because safeguarding private keys can prevent only direct attacks targeting private key access, such as phishing attempts.

    The people we spoke with also failed to follow best practices for securing their private keys. Using a hardware wallet – a physical device that stores private keys offline – is one of the most secure options for protecting keys from online threats. However, our study found that only a handful of participants actually used hardware wallets.

    Mistake 3: Thinking 2-factor authentication is a silver bullet

    Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is a standard security mechanism in which two forms of verification are required to access an account. Think being texted a one-time code before you can log into your bank account.

    To prevent account breaches, centralized crypto exchanges such as Binance and Coinbase use two-factor authentication for logins, account recovery and withdrawal confirmations. But while 2FA is crucial to security in the traditional and centralized crypto finance system, it plays a much smaller role in decentralized finance.

    DeFi wallets give users access based on private key ownership rather than identity verification, which means traditional 2FA can’t be used. Instead, only 2FA-like mechanisms are available in DeFi. For instance, multisignature wallets require approval from multiple private key holders. However, if your private key is compromised, attackers can perform wallet operations on your behalf without any additional verification. In addition, even users who adopt 2FA-like measures can’t prevent the security breaches on the DeFi services’ end.

    Unfortunately, our participants were overly confident regarding the effectiveness of 2FA, with one saying, “Two-factor authentication has been one of the best solutions for keeping wallets safe.” In our survey, 57.1% of users relied on 2FA as their only technical countermeasure against rug pulls – scams where project creators suddenly withdraw funds – and 49.3% did so for smart contract exploits. This misplaced trust could lead them to ignore more effective security strategies.

    Mistake 4: Not managing token approvals

    One such effective strategy is revoking token approvals. In DeFi, tokens are digital assets on a blockchain that represent value or rights, and users often need to approve smart contracts to access or spend them. But if you leave these approvals open, a malicious contract – or one that’s been hacked – can drain your wallet. So it’s crucial to routinely check all token approvals you’ve granted to prevent losses caused by fraudulent or hacked DeFi services. Specifically, you should limit spending allowances instead of using the default “unlimited” option, and revoke approvals for apps you no longer use or trust.

    Worryingly, we found that only 10.8% and 16.3% of participants regularly checked and revoked token approvals to protect against rug pulls and smart contract exploits, respectively. In light of this, we recommend that wallet providers introduce a reminder feature to prompt users to review their token approvals periodically.

    Mistake 5: Not learning from past incidents

    Even after they’re hacked or scammed, people often don’t do anything to improve their security practices, we found. Just 17.6% of those who reported being victims of a DeFi scam regularly checked token approvals afterward. Worse, 26% took no action at all after a scam, and 16.4% doubled down by investing even more in other DeFi services.

    Surprisingly, more than half of the victims said their belief in DeFi either stayed the same or grew stronger after the incident. One user who lost $4,700 due to a rug-pull incident said, “My belief in cryptocurrency has grown stronger after that because I made good money from it.” That person added, “An opportunity to make money is something I believe in.” This suggests that DeFi users’ financial motivations can sometimes outweigh their security concerns – and, perhaps, their better judgment.

    There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to DeFi security. But awareness is the first step. To stay safe, crypto investors should use hardware wallets, revoke unused token approvals and continually learn new techniques to protect themselves from evolving threats. Most importantly, they should stay rational and not let the allure of profits cloud their security practices.

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

    – ref. Decentralized finance is booming − and so are the security risks. My team surveyed nearly 500 crypto investors and uncovered the most common mistakes – https://theconversation.com/decentralized-finance-is-booming-and-so-are-the-security-risks-my-team-surveyed-nearly-500-crypto-investors-and-uncovered-the-most-common-mistakes-251305

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –