NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks: It’s Time to End Dependence on China and Bring Jobs Back to Iowa

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with President Trump in the fight to rebuild American industry, end our reliance on Communist China, and restore good-paying jobs to Iowa and across the country.

    “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are putting America—and American manufacturing—first again. Whether it’s medical supplies, semiconductors, or steel, we must never depend on Communist China for what we can make right here at home,” said Miller-Meeks. “That’s why I’m fighting to bring good-paying jobs back to Iowa, strengthen our supply chains, and ensure our rural communities lead the next chapter of American manufacturing. This isn’t just about economics—it’s about national security, self-reliance, and securing America’s future.”

    With over $5 trillion in U.S. investments and trade agreements secured under President Trump, companies are coming back to the United States. American manufacturing is surging—from semiconductors to steel—and the America First agenda is delivering results.

    In Congress, Miller-Meeks is helping lead that charge with legislation to strengthen domestic manufacturing, medical readiness, and workforce development:

    • Her ONSHORE Act, now signed into law, streamlines federal review processes to bring critical manufacturing projects back to American soil, including rural communities across Iowa.
    • Her bipartisan Diagnostics Testing Preparedness Plan Act (H.R. 1108) ensures the U.S. can develop and manufacture diagnostic medical tests here at home during public health emergencies—never again depending on adversarial nations like China for essential medical supplies.
    • Her Improve Employer-Directed Skills Act (H.R. 2690) empowers Iowa employers to partner with workforce boards to train and upskill workers for the exact jobs local businesses need. A version of this legislation passed the House as part of the Stronger Workforce for America Act with bipartisan support.
    • Her Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act (H.R. 1721), which recently passed the House, directs federal agencies to identify rural communities—like those in Southeast Iowa—best suited for expanded domestic manufacturing. The bill lays the groundwork for long-term job growth, American-made supply chains, and less reliance on foreign adversaries like China.

    A 24-year Army veteran, physician, and former small business owner, Miller-Meeks remains a leading voice in Congress for rebuilding American strength, empowering employers, and restoring opportunity in every corner of Iowa and across the country.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kim, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect U.S. Economy from CCP Military Aggression

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) joined Reps. Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Ritchie Torres (NY-15) to introduce bipartisan legislation to shield American markets from the catastrophic economic fallout of a potential Chinese Communist Party (CCP) invasion of Taiwan.  

    The Fortifying U.S. Markets from Chinese Military Aggression Act would create an advisory committee under the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) to develop an actionable plan to safeguard the U.S. economy in the event of CCP military escalation. 

    “Taiwan is not just a steadfast partner to the United States – it is home to 90% of the world’s advanced semiconductors that power our lives. The impact of a CCP attack on Taiwan on the lives of all Americans cannot be overstated,” said Rep. Young Kim. “The United States must be proactive in protecting our economy in case of an attack or blockade against Taiwan, and I’m glad to partner with Reps. Nunn and Torres on a bipartisan bill that would do exactly that.”  

    “While the United States has long-standing military plans in place to respond to a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan, there’s no economic game plan,” said Rep. Nunn. “90% of the world’s advanced semiconductors are manufactured in Taiwan. The economic impact of that capacity falling into the hands of the CCP would be devastating, not just for global markets, but for Main Street Iowa businesses. This bipartisan bill ensures we have a clear, coordinated plan to respond.” 

    “American investors should never be in the business of bankrolling the CCP’s military. Our bipartisan bill is a clear-eyed effort to ensure American financial markets are not exploited to strengthen an authoritarian regime that threatens our values and our allies,” said Rep. Torres. “Transparency and accountability are not just economic principles: they are national security imperatives. I’m proud to work with Congressman Nunn to push for a bipartisan solution to safeguard the integrity of our markets and defend American interests.” 

    “Representatives Zach Nunn, Ritchie Torres and Young Kim are demonstrating the kind of forward-thinking leadership our markets urgently need. In today’s globally interconnected financial system, the economic consequences of a geopolitical crisis — particularly one involving China and Taiwan — could be swift and severe,” said Ari Rubenstein, Global Trading Systems CEO. “This bipartisan bill takes a critical step toward strengthening market resilience, enhancing coordination among regulators, and ensuring we’re not caught flat-footed. Capital markets thrive on stability and preparedness, and I applaud Congressmen Nunn, Torres and Kim for proactively addressing a risk that is too significant to ignore.” 

    The bill responds to growing concerns from financial analysts and national security leaders who warn that the U.S. has no economic contingency plan to address the ripple effects of CCP aggression in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan produces nearly 90% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors, components critical to the global supply chain and U.S. national security. 

    If the CCP were to invade, economists estimate a short-term market drop of up to 34%. Bloomberg estimates a global GDP loss of $10 trillion, more than double the contraction caused by the 2008 financial crisis or the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    While military contingency plans exist, the U.S. currently lacks an economic response strategy to such an invasion. This bipartisan effort would build a framework for interagency and private sector coordination, ensuring Main Street and U.S. markets are better protected if geopolitical tensions escalate by: 

    • Establishing a 12-member FSOC Advisory Committee that would include market makers, asset managers, exchanges, and experts on China-related geopolitical risk. 
    • Tasking the committee with developing detailed reports and recommendations to identify market vulnerabilities and safeguard U.S. financial stability. 
    • Requiring FSOC to issue annual public reports on economic risks from a Taiwan conflict, including threats to U.S. banking and retaliatory actions from China. 
    • Providing recommendations to regulators to ensure U.S. capital markets are prepared for potential market volatility or trade disruptions. 

    Text of the bill can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Hosts Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in Tucson

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    Ciscomani, Chavez-DeRemer Visit Pima Community College and Attend Roundtable with the Arizona Builders Alliance 

    TUCSON, AZ — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani yesterday hosted Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in Tucson to tour successful job training programs at Pima Community College and discuss collaborative efforts to build a stronger workforce pipeline. 

    “I can’t say enough how important community colleges are in workforce development,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer said. “They are critical.” 

    At Ciscomani’s alma mater, the congressman and Secretary Chavez-DeRemer got a first-hand glimpse of state-of-the-art programs that train students in automotive technology, advanced manufacturing and construction trades.  

    Ciscomani, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visit Pima Community College 

    “No matter where I go throughout the district, one of the top issues I hear is about workforce and the importance of workforce development,” Ciscomani told Pima Community College administrators and business leaders. “Community colleges are essential institutions that train and equip the workers of tomorrow with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive as productive members of the workforce. Institutions like this are vital, and I am proud to host Secretary Chavez-DeRemer at my alma mater.” 

    The discussion included Pima Community Chancellor Dr. Jeffrey Nasse, Joe Snell, President and CEO of the Chamber of Southern Arizona, Acting Provost and Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development and Innovation Ian Roark and local business leaders.  

    “We’re honored to welcome Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Congressman Juan Ciscomani to Pima Community College today,” said Pima Community College Chancellor Nasse. “Their visit underscores the critical importance of workforce development and validates the work PCC is doing every day with our industry partners. At Pima, it’s all about building real pathways to good jobs—and we do that by working hand-in-hand with employers and with key partners like the Chamber of Southern Arizona to grow a strong, regional workforce ecosystem.”   

    Ciscomani and the secretary then joined a roundtable discussion with members of the Arizona Builders Alliance to identify ways to address the workforce shortage for skilled construction workers and promote policies that reduce unnecessary red-tape and empower workers and businesses.  

    “You’re building Arizona. You’re building this country,” Ciscomani said. “The current shortage of skilled construction workers is driving costs higher and causing project delays. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and I are focused on promoting and expanding education programs that bolster the workforce of skilled construction workers, support high-demand, well paying jobs, and support the vital construction industry.”  

    Ciscomani, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer attend roundtable hosted by the Arizona Builders Alliance 

    “I am incredibly grateful to my good friend, Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer for her leadership, commitment to empowering our workers, support for workforce development efforts, and for taking the time to meet with educators, business leaders, and employees in my district,” said Ciscomani. “Secretary Chavez-DeRemer is a fantastic partner, and I look forward to continuing working with her to deliver on our promise to America’s workforce.” 

    Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Arizona was the sixth stop on her “America at Work” nationwide listening tour. She is a former congresswoman and mayor who was sworn in as the nation’s 30th Labor Secretary on March 11, 2025. 

    “With strong growth in the construction industry thanks to President Trump, it’s critical the Labor Department continues our mission to upskill American workers by partnering with local leaders to fill these in-demand jobs,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “I enjoyed learning firsthand how educators and businesses in Tucson have developed pathways to successful, good-paying careers in construction and building trades. Thank you to my friend Congressman Ciscomani for showcasing these achievements and explaining the challenges facing Arizona’s 6th District. I look forward to collaborating on workforce solutions that continue growing our economy.” 

    Background:

    • Below is legislation Ciscomani has introduced to incentivize construction of affordable housing and develop and fund workforce development programs in community colleges:
      • In the 118th Congress, Ciscomani introduced the Grants for Resources in Occupational Workforce Training for Healthcare (GROWTH) Act (H.R. 6078) to provide additional funding to nursing programs at community colleges in order to address the national nursing workforce shortage.
      • In the 118th Congress, the Congressman introduced the Speeding Up Production of Essential Residences (SUPER) Demonstration Act (H.R. 9195) to utilize unused COVID-19 funds to create and fund a pilot program designed to reduce construction times by removing unnecessary regulatory requirements facing developers, which would in turn incentivize more private-sector investment.   
      • In February 2025, Ciscomani reintroduced the Creating Opportunities for New Skills Training at Rural and Underserved Colleges and Trade Schools (CONSTRUCTS) Act (H.R. 1055) to fund and develop residential construction education and certification program at community colleges, junior colleges, and trade schools.    

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Lodging a general purpose financial statement

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Lodging a general purpose financial statement (GPFS) is a crucial step for various entities in Australia. Under section 3CA of the Taxation Administration Act 1953 , you’re required to submit a GPFS if you are:

    • a corporate tax entity (that is, a company, corporate limited partnership, or public trading trust) for the income year
    • a country-by-country reporting entity for the income year
    • an Australian resident or a foreign resident operating an Australian permanent establishment (PE), at the end of the income year.

    If you’re a subsidiary member of an accounting group, but not a member of a tax consolidated or multiple entry consolidated (MEC) group, you may still have an obligation to lodge a GPFS even where your parent entity may have already lodged.

    However, if you lodge a trust or partnership tax return, there’s no obligation under section 3CA to lodge a GPFS.

    To ensure your GPFS meets the necessary standards, your entity must prepare it in accordance with applicable accounting standards. It’s important to note that we don’t accept special purpose financial statements (SPFS) as GPFS.

    Entities must lodge their GPFS by the company tax return due date, unless they’ve already lodged with ASIC. To avoid penalties, lodge your statements on time, and in the approved form. Penalties are considerably higher for significant global entities.

    For more information, see Guidance on providing general purpose financial statements.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $20,000 instant asset write-off for 2024–25

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Have you purchased or are you purchasing a business asset this financial year? The instant asset write-off limit is $20,000 for the 2024-25 income year.

    If your business has an aggregated annual turnover of less than $10 million and uses the
    simplified depreciation rules, you may be able to use the instant asset write-off to immediately deduct the business part of the cost of eligible assets:

    • The full cost of eligible depreciating assets costing less than $20,000 that are first used or installed ready for use for a taxable purpose between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025.
    • New and second-hand assets can qualify; although some exclusions and limits apply.
    • If you claimed an immediate deduction for an asset’s cost under the simplified depreciation rules in an earlier income year, you can also immediately deduct the first improvement cost for that asset if it is incurred between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025 and less than $20,000.
    • The $20,000 limit applies on a per-asset basis, so you can instantly write off multiple assets as long as the cost of each asset is less than the limit.

    The usual rules for claiming deductions still apply. You can only claim the business part of the expense, and you must have records to prove it.

    Remember, it’s important to keep good records to help you or your tax professional work out your claim. For more information, see Record keeping for small business.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TCU/IAM Financial Officers Learn Skills at Winpisinger Center, Visit IAM Headquarters

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Chicago TCU/IAM Local 6608 member Troy Andrew spent a week at the IAM’s Winpisinger Center to learn about the responsibilities of a financial secretary. His training covered topics such as bookkeeping, tax systems, and overall financial management. After the week, Andrew and his classmates visited the IAM’s International Headquarters for a tour and found it very informative, providing valuable insights into the workings of the financial system.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Economic and Social Committee demands immediate action to tackle cost-of-living crisis

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) demands urgent action from the European Commission and EU Member States to dismantle barriers fragmenting the single market and keeping living costs high, even as inflation rates fall.

    Despite steadily decreasing inflation in Europe, cost of living remains a concern, as millions of Europeans — especially the 94.6 million people at risk of poverty or social exclusion — continue to struggle with elevated prices.

    In its opinion How single market dysfunctionalities contribute to the rising cost of living, adopted at its plenary session on 29 April, the EESC identified single market fragmentation as a major driver of persistently high costs and called for swift measures to strengthen competition, lower prices and boost investment.

    ‘The cost of living in Europe is fuelled by dysfunctionalities in the single market. We call for urgent action to tackle barriers that affect the costs of products (such as territorial supply constraints), and to speed up proceedings against national rules that infringe EU law,’ said Emilie Prouzet, rapporteur of the opinion.

    Beyond territorial supply constraints (TSCs), the EESC pointed the finger at geo-blocking and diverging national rules as two of the main culprits of the dysfunction and fragmentation plaguing the single market. Despite the European Commission’s efforts to prohibit geo-blocking and address TSCs, these practices continue to create disparities in prices and product availability across Member States.

    Fragmentation not only increases costs for businesses and consumers but also limits the variety of products available. The lack of harmonisation in financial markets, telecommunications, energy and pharmaceuticals further exacerbates market fragmentation.

    The EESC pointed out that despite the fact that the single market boosts the EU’s GDP by 6-8%, fragmentation still costs the economy up to EUR 500 billion every year, which could be unlocked if the single market were completed. This figure can be broken down into EUR 228 billion each year for goods, and EUR 279 billion for services.

    According to IMF estimates, non-tariff barriers within the EU are equivalent to customs duties of around 44% for goods and 110% for services. New barriers continue to emerge, further driving up costs for businesses and consumers.

    To tackle this, the EESC has called for the following:

    • Immediate removal of regulatory and non-regulatory barriers limiting the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
    • Faster enforcement of EU rules that would see the Commission speed up infringement proceedings and use interim injunctions against clear violations of EU law.
    • Elimination of territorial supply constraints that artificially inflate prices for consumers.
    • Completion of the Capital Markets Union to unlock private and public investment across the EU.
    • Promotion of labour mobility and digitalisation to enhance worker protection and economic opportunities.
    • Better infrastructure integration in the energy and telecommunications sectors to create a truly unified market.
    • Assessment of housing market barriers to tackle rising housing costs.
    • Removal of healthcare market restrictions to guarantee affordable access to medicines.

    This opinion is part of a wider EESC initiative tackling the cost-of-living crisis across seven policy areas, providing targeted recommendations for EU and national policymakers, civil society and stakeholders.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Token2049 Dubai VIP Private Party: Gathering in the Cloud to Draw the Future of Web3

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dubai, UAE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — During the Token2049 Dubai Conference, BitMart, the world’s leading digital asset trading platform, held a unique VIP private party at the world’s highest restaurant, Atmosphere, located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. This high-end gathering above the cloud attracted more than 500 industry elites from all over the world, including well-known KOLs, institutional representatives, project founders and industry leaders. BitMart CEO and many executives also attended the event to discuss the future development of the Web3 ecosystem while overlooking the dazzling night view of Dubai.

    In his opening speech, Nathan (Nenter) Chow, global CEO of BitMart, said: “I would like to thank founder Sheldon for his trust and the global community for their long-term support. Today we gather in the cloud to review past developments and look forward to the future blueprint. BitMart will continue to optimize trading infrastructure and strive to provide global users with a better digital service experience.”

    At the private event, the Web3-themed dinner carefully presented by Michelin-starred chefs and the melodious violin performance complemented each other, creating a unique atmosphere for this high-end business exchange. The guests had in-depth exchanges in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere, and collided with many innovative ideas and cooperation opportunities. BitMart also specially prepared exquisite souvenirs for each guest, which was a perfect end to this unforgettable cloud appointment.

    This private event with both height and warmth not only demonstrated BitMart’s ability to connect global resources, but also injected new impetus into the prosperity and development of the Web3 ecosystem. In the future, BitMart will continue to promote the development of the global community, with user empowerment as the core, to create a freer and more sustainable financial future.

    About BitMart
    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,700+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit their Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Disclaimer:
    Use of BitMart services is entirely at your own risk. All crypto investments, including earnings, are highly speculative in nature and involve substantial risk of loss. Past, hypothetical, or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

    The value of digital currencies can go up or down and there can be a substantial risk in buying, selling, holding, or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Intesa Sanpaolo Reports Best-Ever Net Income of €2.6BN in 1Q25

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MILAN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intesa Sanpaolo delivered its best-ever quarterly net income in 1Q25, exceeding €2.6 billion and generating an annualized Return on Equity of 20%.

    This outstanding start to the year supports guidance for 2025 net income well above €9 billion.

    Strong revenue growth and cost efficiency

    Intesa Sanpaolo posted a record first quarter for commissions (+7% vs 1Q24), with 11% growth in Wealth Management & Protection related activities. Insurance income saw its best quarter ever (+9% vs 4Q24).

    Customer financial assets grew by €45.5 billion from March 31, 2024, to around €1.4 trillion, supported by €900 billion in direct deposits and Assets under Management (AuM).

    Despite significant investments in technology, cost discipline remains a priority. The Cost/Income ratio hit a record low of 38%, one of the best in Europe.

    Technology investments and digital transformation

    Technology remains central to Intesa Sanpaolo’s strategy. The bank has invested €4.4 billion in its digital transformation, hiring ~2,350 IT specialists and migrating 62% of applications to the cloud.

    Isybank—Intesa Sanpaolo’s digital bank—has reached one million clients, with a strong acceleration in Q1 that confirms the success of the Group’s digital strategy.

    Commitment to Social Impact

    Intesa Sanpaolo continues to lead in social impact initiatives, deploying more than €0.7 billion from 2023 to 1Q25—including around €65 million in the first quarter—to combat poverty and reduce inequality, supported by a dedicated team of ~1,000 professionals.

    Outlook for 2025

    Thanks to this strong start, Intesa Sanpaolo confirms its outlook with 2025 net income well above €9 billion. Intesa Sanpaolo plans to return over €8.2 billion to shareholders this year, with additional distributions to be quantified at year-end.

    Pull quotes from CEO Carlo Messina

    Carlo Messina, CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo, remarked on the results:

    “The results achieved in the first quarter of 2025 confirm and reinforce Intesa Sanpaolo’s standing among Europe’s major banks.”

    “In terms of market capitalization, we rank among the leading European banking groups, alongside competitors with significantly larger balance sheets.”

    “Amid market volatility and shifting interest rates, we are facing these challenges from a position of strength, thanks to a resilient, efficient and well-diversified business model.”

    “We rank first in the eurozone for the contribution of fees and insurance activities to total revenues.”

    “Capital generation remains strong: our CET1 ratio stands at 13.3%. During the quarter, we increased it by approximately 45 basis points, confirming the Bank’s ability to generate capital consistently and robustly.”

    “Technological innovation is a key driver of our success.”

    “We are strongly committed to the environmental transition. From 2021 to the first quarter of 2025, we have provided €72.2 billion in support of the green economy.”

    “The quality of our people is a decisive factor in generating strong, sustainable results. I am proud of what we have achieved and thank all our people for their extraordinary contribution.”

    “Our well-diversified business model, solid capital position and strong income-generating capacity are the pillars of Intesa Sanpaolo’s success. We are confident that the Group’s existing potential will sustain our leadership in Europe in the years ahead.”

    Click here for more information on Intesa Sanpaolo’s financial results and strategic outlook.

    Contact: international.media@intesasanpaolo.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/19fa4ad4-2506-402c-beff-ada3953bc85a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Eight Welsh businesses celebrated in The King’s Awards for Enterprise

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Eight Welsh businesses celebrated in The King’s Awards for Enterprise

    Welsh recipients announced in third year of The King’s Awards for Enterprise – the UK’s most prestigious business awards.

    The King’s Award for Enterprise. Recipients from Wales.

    • Businesses from Bridgend to Wrexham recognised, with each playing a key role in the UK Government’s mission for economic growth.
    • Winners across three different categories: Innovation, International Trade and Sustainable Development.

    The recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced today [6 May], celebrating the achievements of leading businesses from across the UK and Channel Islands.

    Eight Welsh businesses across a range of different sectors have been recognized by His Majesty The King as among the best in the country, highlighting the ambition, ingenuity, and success of our diverse business community. 

    The businesses awarded cover a variety of sectors including industrial lasers, medical equipment, and baking, and are based around the country, from Wrexham to Bridgend and Welshpool. 

    One Welsh company was awarded for their innovative practices, five for their achievements in international trade and one for their sustainable development.

    By supporting more people into work, developing new innovations and exporting the best Britain has to offer around the world, businesses like these play a key role in the UK Government’s mission to go further and faster for economic growth, and put more money in more working people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports said:

    There are some excellent Welsh businesses recognised in this year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise: from Spectrum Technologies’ pioneering laser equipment to Bluestone Resort’s commitment to environmental responsibility. 

    I wish the winners every success as they continue to grow, innovate and prosper, and commend the invaluable contributions they have already made to communities at home in Wales and abroad, helping to boost the UK economy.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    I congratulate all eight Welsh businesses who have won awards. From baking to medical devices to sustainable holidays, their work shows the best of business right across Wales, producing and exporting high quality products and services.

    By working with talented Welsh enterprises to create well-paid local jobs and economic growth, the UK Government is delivering on its Plan for Change.

    This year’s recipients include Spectrum Technologies, a global leader in the supply of industrial laser wire-processing equipment for the aerospace industry. Based in Bridgend, they have been recognised in the International Trade category.   

    Dr Peter Dickinson, Chairman and Chief Technology Officer at Spectrum Technologies, said:  

    Spectrum is very excited and proud to be a winner of the King’s Award for Enterprise. The Company faced huge challenges with Covid but our team of employees have really pulled together and helped turn a difficult situation around, more than doubling sales over the last few years.

    The King’s Award is a tribute to their combined efforts, as well as a reflection on the company’s global market-leading position supplying specialised laser wire processing equipment to the aerospace industry.” 

    Bluestone Resort is situated in the heart of the Pembrokeshire countryside. The park has been designed to reconnect families with nature in a responsible fashion, and as such they have received an award in the Sustainable Development category. 

    William McNamara OBE, CEO and Founder of Bluestone, said: 

    Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development is a hugely exciting and rewarding milestone for everyone at Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire.  

    Our ethos is centered on the three pillars of sustainable development: actively protecting natural ecosystems, growing the local economy and supporting local communities. This has become our operational blueprint. The King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development gives us many reasons to celebrate, recognising the importance of our work as we continue to protect our planet for future generations.” 

    The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and were renamed two years ago to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 59th year, has awarded over 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965.

    His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants – the King’s representatives in each county – will be presenting the Awards to businesses locally throughout the year. One representative from each winning business will also be invited to a special royal reception event.

    Eligible businesses are free to apply for one or more categories. The recipients pass a robust assessment process, judged by experts from industry, academia, the voluntary sector, a representative from the Welsh Government and senior officials in Whitehall. On that basis, each year, The King’s Awards for Enterprise recipients are recommended by the Prime Minister.

    Richard Harris, Head of Trade at the Welsh Government and a judge on this year’s panel commented: 

    It’s an absolute privilege to represent Wales as a judge on the Kings Awards and reviewing and appraising the applications which seem to grow in quality year on year never fails to impress. 

    The Kings Award is the gold standard, it means something, for me it’s the benchmark award for quality that can literally open doors and start conversations across the world, enabling companies to access opportunities that ordinarily might not be available and win business.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government pledges greater growth for the coach sector ahead of National Coach Week

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Government pledges greater growth for the coach sector ahead of National Coach Week

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, visits Star Coaches in Batley and celebrates a sector that provides 42,000 jobs in the UK.

    Pictured from left to right: Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, Simon Lightwood MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Local Transport) and Imran Dabhad, Managing Director, Star Coaches of Batley

    • Transport Minister visits West Yorkshire to pledge renewed support for the coach sector, which provides 42,000 jobs in the UK
    • meeting industry leaders, he will reinforce the UK’s commitment to working with the sector to grow local economies and make services greener
    • comes ahead of National Coach Week, celebrating an industry that contributes over £6 billion to the national tourism economy, securing jobs and delivering growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    The government has reaffirmed its support for the coach sector today (6 May 2025), as Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood visited Star Coaches in Batley ahead of National Coach Week.  

    In partnership with the Road Haulage Association, National Coach Week (12 to 18 May 2025) celebrates the essential role of coaches in everyday life, from transporting over half a million students to school each day, to providing vital backup when trains or planes are disrupted.

    The minister met with staff and Road Haulage Association leaders to discuss the industry’s contribution to local communities, and how the government can work with operators to improve accessibility, make services greener and drive economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: 

    It was a pleasure to visit Star Coaches in Batley today, ahead of National Coach Week. 

    From getting over half a million students to school each day, to supporting 42,000 jobs for drivers and other staff, the coach sector plays a vital role in our economy, and keeps communities connected. 

    That’s why we’re working hand-in-hand with the industry to unlock its full potential – which will ultimately boost local economies, and open up access to greater job opportunities across the country to drive growth as part of our Plan for Change.

    During the visit, the minister discussed how Star Coaches supports the region – from transporting children on school trips, to helping older residents stay connected with their communities. The Batley based operator was founded in 1982 and operates a fleet of 16 to 70-seater coaches to serve local passengers across West Yorkshire.

    Tomorrow, the minister will meet with industry leaders to share insights from the visit and discuss how the government can strengthen the sector for the future. 

    As part of efforts to tackle driver shortages and expand opportunities for young people, the government is currently reviewing consultation feedback on licence rules for 18-to-20-year-olds.  

    The government is also working with the sector to continually improve accessibility, which includes running an innovation competition with Innovate UK to develop transferrable audio-visual equipment for coaches, which will award projects up to £170,000. 

    Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:

    National Coach Week is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the vital role the coach industry plays in our society.

    Coaches provide essential transport links, connect communities, and support our tourism sector. They are also a key part of the solution to reducing congestion and improving air quality.

    We urge everyone to join us in celebrating this important industry and recognise the hard work and dedication of the people who make it all possible.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Trade and Deepen US-Iceland Economic Partnership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Congressman Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) reintroduced the Iceland Commercial and Economic Leadership for Arctic and National Development (ICELAND) Act. This bipartisan legislation would add Iceland to the list of nations eligible for investment and trade in the U.S—provided that U.S. nationals are treated similarly by the government of Iceland.

    The bill would also make Icelanders eligible for E-1 and E-2 nonimmigrant work visas, which are reserved for nationals of countries with which the U.S. has a treaty of commerce, a qualifying international agreement, or has granted eligibility by statute. Iceland is currently one of the few European countries excluded from these visas.

    “Iceland has long been an important trade partner of the United States—and especially for Maine, where our longstanding shipping and seafood trade with Iceland has fostered deep economic and cultural ties,” said Pingree. “My bipartisan ICELAND Act would strengthen that partnership for generations to come, creating greater economic opportunities for both countries at a time when the global economic order is rapidly shifting. By extending E-1 and E-2 visa eligibility to Icelanders, we’re not only honoring our shared commitments; we’re also investing in the kind of bilateral cooperation that fuels innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term growth in America and in the Arctic region. The ICELAND Act would bring our two countries into closer strategic alignment at a time when such partnerships are more critical than ever.” 

    “As co-chair of the Iceland Caucus, I know the importance of having a strong relationship between the United States and Iceland,” said Murphy. “Iceland serves as an important ally in our common pursuit of democracy and economic security, and this legislation would be a critical step in strengthening the ties between our two nations. The ICELAND Act would increase trade and expand economic opportunities, while also injecting capital into both of our economies.”

    Background:

    In 1944, the United States was the first country to recognize the independent Republic of Iceland. As NATO members, Iceland and the United States share strategic interests in the Arctic region, as well as many political and cultural values, including mutual respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The U.S. and Iceland have a longstanding history of trade. As an export powerhouse in seafood ($247 million), optical and medical instruments ($75 million), beverages ($31 million), special other ($29 million), and machinery ($16 million), Iceland contributes to the commercial and trading interests of the U.S. economy. The U.S.

    E-1 and E-2 visas allow foreign nationals to enter the U.S. for a period of up to two years (with an option to renew on a rolling basis) to engage in substantial trade and investment activities. Nationals of 84 countries are eligible for E-1 and/or E-2 visa status. Iceland is one of only four European countries (Russia, Hungary, and Belarus) and of a small handful of NATO and Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development member states that do not currently hold this status. Traditionally, E-1 and E-2 visas were extended to foreign citizens under “treaties of navigation”, however in recent years legislation is typically required to add nations to the list of eligible countries. In 2018, the KIWI Act was signed into law, granting citizens of New Zealand access to E visas. In 2022, the AMIGOS Act was signed into law, granting E visa eligibility to citizens of Portugal.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global CEO pay increased by 50 percent since 2019, 56 times more than worker wages

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Average CEO pay surged by 50 percent in real terms since 2019, while average worker wages increased by just 0.9 percent.
    • Every hour, billionaires pocket more wealth than the average worker earns in an entire year.  
    • The average gender pay gap in 11,366 corporations worldwide narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023 ―yet their average female employee still effectively works for free on Fridays, while their average male employee is paid through the week.
    • Oxfam and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) are calling for higher taxes on the super-rich to invest in people and planet.

    Average global CEO pay hit $4.3 million in 2024, reveals new analysis from Oxfam ahead of International Workers’ Day (1 May). This is a 50 percent real-term increase from $2.9 million in 2019 (adjusted for inflation) —a rise that far outpaces the real wage growth of the average worker, who saw a 0.9 percent increase over the same five-year period in the countries where CEO pay data is available.

    The figures are median averages, based on full executive pay packages, including bonuses and stock options, from nearly 2,000 corporations across 35 countries where CEOs were paid more than $1 million in 2024. The data, analyzed by Oxfam, was sourced from the S&P Capital IQ database, which uses publicly reported company financials.

    • Ireland and Germany have some of the highest-paid CEOs, earning an average of $6.7 million and $4.7 million a year in 2024 respectively.
    • Average CEO pay in South Africa was $1.6 million in 2024, while in India, it reached $2 million.

    “Year after year, we see the same grotesque spectacle: CEO pay explodes while workers’ wages barely budge. This isn’t a glitch in the system —it’s the system working exactly as designed, funnelling wealth ever upwards while millions of working people struggle to afford rent, food, and healthcare,” said Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

    Boosts to global CEO pay come as warnings grow that wages are failing to keep pace with the cost of living. While the International Labor Organization (ILO) global reports real wages grew by 2.7 percent in 2024, many workers have seen their wages stagnate. In France, South Africa and Spain for example, real wage growth was just 0.6 percent last year. While wage inequality had decreased globally, it remains very high, particularly in low-income countries, where the share of income of the richest 10 percent is 3.4 times higher than the poorest 40 percent.

    Billionaires —who often fully, or in part, own large corporations— pocketed on average $206 billion in new wealth over the last year. This is equivalent to $23,500 an hour, more than the global average income in 2023 ($21,000).
    Beyond runaway CEO pay, the global working class is now facing a new threat: sweeping US tariffs. These policies pose significant risks for workers worldwide, including job losses and rising costs for basic goods that would stoke extreme inequality everywhere. 

    “For so many workers worldwide, President Trump’s reckless use of tariffs means a push from one cruel order to another: from the frying pan of destructive neoliberal trade policy to the fire of weaponized tariffs. These policies will not only hurt working families in the US, but especially harm workers trying to escape poverty in some of the world’s poorest countries,” said Behar.   

    Increasingly, corporations are being required by law to report their gender pay gaps ―the average difference in earnings between women and men. Oxfam’s analysis of the S&P Capital IQ database found that among 11,366 corporations across 82 countries that reported gender pay gap data, the average gap narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023. Yet, on average, women in these corporations still effectively work without pay on Fridays, while their male counterparts are paid for the full week.

    Corporations in Japan and South Korea reported some of the highest average gender pay gaps in 2023 (around 40 percent). The average gap in Latin America was 36 percent in 2023, up from 34 percent the previous year. Corporations in Canada, Denmark, Ireland, and the UK reported average pay gaps of 16 percent.

    Oxfam’s analysis also found that out of 45,501 corporations across 168 countries where the CEO is paid more than $10 million and their gender is reported, fewer than 7 percent have a female CEO.

    “The outrageous pay inequality between CEOs and workers confirms that we lack democracy where it is needed most: at work. Around the world, workers are being denied the basics of life while corporations pocket record profits, dodge taxes and lobby to evade responsibility,” said Luc Triangle, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

    “Workers are demanding a New Social Contract that works for them —not the billionaires undermining democracy. Fair taxation, strong public services, living wages and a just transition are not radical demands —they are the foundation of a just society. It’s time to end the billionaire coup against democracy and put people and planet first.”

    Oxfam and the ITUC are calling on governments to sustain and accelerate momentum on taxing the super-rich, both nationally and globally. This includes introducing top marginal rates of tax of at least 75 percent on all personal income for the highest earners to discourage sky-high executive pay. Governments must also ensure minimum wages keep up with inflation, and that everyone has the right to unionize, strike and bargain collectively.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel’s New INGO Registration Measures Are a Grave Threat to Humanitarian Operations and International Law – 55 Organisations Say

    Source: Oxfam –

    Oxfam, together with 54 organisations operating in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) call for urgent action from the international community against new Israeli registration rules for international NGOs. Based on vague, broad, politicised, and open-ended criteria, these rules appear designed to assert control over independent humanitarian, development and peacebuilding operations, silence advocacy grounded in international humanitarian and human rights law, and further entrench Israeli control and de facto annexation of the occupied Palestinian territory.

    For over a year and a half, humanitarian organisations have continued operating despite unprecedented constraints. In 2024, they reached millions of people across the oPt with essential services – from food and water to mobile clinics, legal aid, and education. The new registration rules now threaten to shut this work down. These measures go beyond routine policy. They mark a serious escalation in restrictions on humanitarian and civic space and risk setting a dangerous precedent.

    Under the new provisions, INGOs already registered in Israel may face de-registration, while new applicants risk rejection based on arbitrary, politicised allegations, such as “delegitimising Israel” or expressing support for accountability for Israeli violations of international law. Other disqualifiers include public support for a boycott of Israel within the past seven years (by staff, a partner, board member, or founder) or failure to meet exhaustive reporting requirements. By framing humanitarian and human rights advocacy as a threat to the state, Israeli authorities can shut out organisations merely for speaking out about conditions they witness on the ground, forcing INGOs to choose between delivering aid and promoting respect for the protections owed to affected people.

    INGOs are further required to submit complete staff lists and other sensitive information about staff and their families to Israel when applying for registration. In a context where humanitarian and healthcare workers are routinely subject to harassment, detention, and direct attacks, this raises serious protection concerns.

    These new rules are part of a broader, long-term crackdown on humanitarian and civic space, marked by heightened surveillance and attacks, and a series of actions that restrict humanitarian access, compromise staff safety, and undermine core principles of humanitarian action. They are not isolated but part of a wider pattern that includes:

    • Blocking or delaying aid through arbitrary bureaucratic restrictions, logistical obstacles, and complete sieges, denying essential lifesaving supplies to Palestinians.
    • Killing more than 400 humanitarian workers in Gaza, injuring and detaining countless others, and repeatedly attacking marked and notified humanitarian premises, facilities or convoys.
    • Passing legislation aimed at curtailing the operations of UNRWA, the largest provider of essential services for Palestinians.
    • Advancing legislation to impose a tax of up to 80 per cent on foreign government funding to Israeli NGOs, while barring them from seeking recourse through the Israeli court system – including organisations that serve as partners for INGOs to deliver assistance and uphold protections in communities facing displacement, demolitions, or settler violence.
    • Suspending work visas for international staff and revoking permits for Palestinians residing in the West Bank to access Jerusalem, severely disrupting operations.• And now, making INGO registration conditional on political and ideological alignment, undermining the neutrality, impartiality and independence of humanitarian actors.

    Under international humanitarian law, occupying powers are obligated to facilitate impartial humanitarian assistance and ensure the welfare of the protected population. Any attempt to condition humanitarian access on political alignment or penalise organisations for fulfilling their mandate risks breaching this framework. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to allow unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza in three legally binding provisional measures orders in 2024. Yet, these new rules expand and institutionalise existing barriers to aid.

    We call on States, donors, and the international community to:

    • Use all possible means to protect humanitarian operations from measures that compromise neutrality, independence, and access – including staff list requirements, political vetting, and vague revocation clauses.
    • Take concrete political and diplomatic action beyond statements of concern to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and prevent the erosion of principled aid delivery.
    • Support INGOs and Palestinian and Israeli civil society organisations through legal assistance, diplomatic support, and flexible funding to help mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks. Donors must defend principled humanitarian and human rights work.

    The undersigned 55 organisations stress that engagement with the registration process to preserve critical humanitarian operations should not be misinterpreted as endorsement of these measures.

    These 55 organisations remain committed to the delivery of humanitarian aid, along with development and peacebuilding services and activities that are independent, impartial, and based on need, in full accordance with international law and the humanitarian principles derived from it. INGOs stand ready to engage with Israeli authorities in good faith on administrative processes but cannot accept measures that penalise principled humanitarian work or expose staff to retaliation. These measures not only undermine assistance in the oPt but also set a dangerous precedent for humanitarian operations globally.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    The UK has secured the best deal India has ever agreed, providing businesses with security and confidence to trade with the fastest-growing economy in the G20.

    Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds with Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal

    Delivering Economic Growth 

    The core mission of this Government is to deliver economic growth that raises living standards and puts money in people’s pockets, and that is exactly what this deal will do. We estimate that it will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, add £4.8billion a year to our economy and boost wages by £2.2 billion every year in the long run. footnote 1 This is the best deal India has ever agreed to. It delivers on our manifesto commitment to create trade relationships that unlock new opportunities for businesses across all our nations and regions. 

    Case study – Standard Chartered 

    Standard Chartered is a leading UK-based international banking group with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. It is the largest and oldest foreign bank in India, acting as a ‘super connector’ of cross-border trade and investment by driving commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity for more than 165 years.   

    Saif Malik, CEO, UK and Head of Coverage, UK, Standard Chartered, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor.

    We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.

    Case study – UPS

    UPS is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2024 revenue of $91.1 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories, including connecting the United Kingdom and India. 

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, said:

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network.

    We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Future-Proofing Our Economy 

    This deal gives UK businesses first-mover advantage with a new economic superpower. Currently the biggest country in the world by population, India is projected to move from its fifth-largest global economy to third in the next three years, thanks to the highest growth rate in the G20. footnote 2 By the end of the decade, it will be home to an estimated 60 million middle-class consumers, whose numbers are projected to grow to a quarter of a billion by 2050. footnote 3 And by 2035, their demand for imports is on course to top £1.4 trillion. footnote 4 The enormous scope of this market, where British goods and services are already sought after, represents an equally huge opportunity for UK businesses in the decades to come. 

    Case study – John Smedley Ltd

    Established in 1784 in Lea Mills, Derbyshire, John Smedley Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer and retailer of luxury knitwear. 

    Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said:

    India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.

    John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been finalised, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.

    We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

    Cutting costs for UK-India trade 

    From day one, this deal will support businesses across the United Kingdom by making it cheaper, easier, and quicker to trade with India. The deal will slash costs on UK exports, including whiskies and gin, cosmetics, medical devices, advanced machinery and lamb. Based on current trade alone, India’s tariff cuts amount to £400m in the first year, going up around £900m after 10 years. footnote 5 And that’s before factoring in the savings from speedier and easier trade from improved customs and digital commitments. This immediate relief represents a major advantage our businesses will enjoy over their international competitors, helping them to invest, expand, and support more high-quality jobs. 

    Case study – Smith+Nephew

    Smith+Nephew designs and manufactures technology that takes the limits off living. Smith+Nephew’s products include: Advanced Wound Management; orthopaedics and a robot assisted surgery system; and joint preservation and soft tissue orthopaedics.

    Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said:

    Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector.

    We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

    Delivering opportunities for High-Growth Sectors 

    This deal supports the UK’s world-leading high-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy, including:  

    • Slashing tariffs for UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors, including for automotives, electrical machinery and high-end optical products.  

    • Giving the clean energy industry brand new and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, as India makes the switch to renewable energy, alongside their growing energy demand. 

    • Unlocking new opportunities for medical devices firms within the life sciences sector, with reduced tariffs and rules of origin that factor in the UK’s complex supply chains and ensure that businesses can reap the benefits.  

    • Enshrining copyright protections for the creative sector, enabling our exporters to feel confident exporting to India with a commitment that works will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. India will also commit to engaging on aspects of Copyright and Related Rights. This deal addresses the interests of UK creators, rights holders, and consumers, including around Public Performance Rights and Artist Resale Rights, which acknowledge the importance of payment rights. India will also conduct an internal review of their copyright protection terms.   

    • Guaranteeing access for the UK’s world-class financial and professional business services sectors to India’s growing market. This is on top of securing India’s foreign investment cap for the insurance sector, ensuring UK financial services companies are treated equally to domestic suppliers, and encouraging the recognition of professional qualifications. 

    • Securing India’s best ever commitments on digital trade for our Digital and technology sectors, such as promoting digital systems and paperless trade, helping UK businesses of all sizes take the opportunities on offer in this huge and rapidly expanding market.  

    Case study – Premier League

    The Premier League is the world’s most-watched football competition, reaching 1.6 billion viewers in 189 countries around the world. The global success of the Premier League makes it one of the UK’s most significant soft power assets, amplifying British cultural values and generating economic growth and inward investment. 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.  

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.

    Case study – EY

    EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fuelled by sector insights, a globally connected, multidisciplinary network and a diverse ecosystem of partners, EY teams provide services in more than 150 countries and territories. 

    Rohan Malik, EMEIA and UKI Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, EY, said:  

    This agreement is poised to accelerate an economic partnership that is already thriving, with the value of total trade between the UK and India having more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn over the last decade.

    British businesses stand to benefit substantially from enhanced access to one of the world’s largest export markets and a skills pool that can fuel strategically important UK sectors, including professional services and emerging industries based around data and AI.

    Case study – Concrete Canvas Ltd

    Concrete Canvas Ltd is a Wales-based low-carbon concrete manufacturer. 

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said: 

    India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive.

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Case study – Biopanda

    Biopanda is a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories.

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, said:  

    Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years.

    We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.

    This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer.

    Unlocking Opportunities Nationwide 

    Through our Plan for Change, this government will raise living standards in every part of the United Kingdom. This deal supports that goal, unlocking new opportunities in every region and nation.  

    This deal also opens a huge new market for iconic UK brands, securing India’s best ever tariff offer and providing access to India’s growing middle-class consumer base, which will give iconic UK brands the opportunity to expand their reach and influence. This access includes cutting tariffs on whiskies from 150% to 75% at entry into force, following to 40% after 10 years, as well as on other agri-food products such as soft drinks dropping from 33% to 0% after seven years, and lamb dropping from 33% to 0% at entry into force. Separately high-end cars will benefit from a drop from over 100% to 10% under a quota. We have also secured India’s best ever agreement on Rules of Origin, which enables UK businesses to take advantage of these new lower tariffs.

    This deal will also support consumers as they benefit from the best of India and greater variety as our trading relationship grows, including clothing, footwear, and iconic food and drink. New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent.

    Case study – Chivas Brothers Ltd

    Chivas Brothers Ltd is part of the Pernod Ricard group of companies and exports over £2bn of Scotch whisky and gin every year, including brands like Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet and Beefeater. India is amongst Chivas Brothers’ largest export markets and the biggest consumer of whisky worldwide by volume. The UK-India trade agreement will help solidify and potentially expand on Pernod Ricard’s existing investments, which includes a €200m distillery construction in the Indian state of Maharashtra and £100m in bottling facilities in Dumbarton, Scotland. 

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

    The announcement of a free trade agreement in principle between the UK and India is a welcome boost for Chivas Brothers during an uncertain global economic environment.

    India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be a game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s. The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland, as well as help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade. Slàinte to the UK Ministers and officials who steered the deal though long negotiations.

    Case study – Diageo

    Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with a collection of brands across spirits and beer categories sold in more than 180 countries around the world. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.  

    Diageo is a leading player in India’s beverage alcohol sector and is among the top 10 fast-moving consumer goods companies in India by market capitalisation. Diageo has 50 manufacturing facilities across India, employs over 3,300 people directly in market with a further 100,000 jobs supported throughout its value chain. India is one of Diageo’s largest markets globally and accounts for almost half of its total global spirits volume.

    Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a huge achievement by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer and Ministers Goyal and Reynolds, and all of us at Diageo toast their success. It will be transformational for Scotch and Scotland, while powering jobs and investment in both India and the UK.

    The deal will also increase quality and choice for discerning consumers across India, the world’s largest and most exciting whisky market.

    Enhancing Security through our partnership

    The UK and India already enjoy a deep and broad partnership built on our shared principles as two democracies, our commitment to the rules-based international order, strong ties in areas including culture, education, food, and sport, and of course through our living bridge – with some 1.9 million people with Indian heritage calling the UK their home. footnote 6

    This agreement encourages collaboration between our two complementary economies. It creates a framework to promote closer ties on innovation – including on new technologies in areas like agriculture, health, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. And our agreement on business mobility will help experts on both sides deliver their services, enabling us to capitalise on the economic transformation that technology will bring over the course of this century. 

    Through this deal, we are showing the world that we stand for free, fair, and open trade. In an increasingly unstable and volatile world, this provides businesses with the confidence that they need to grow and expand. And as India’s approach to global trade changes, so can this deal. We have agreed in numerous areas that, if India offer a better deal to a different country, we can come back to the table to renegotiate for the UK. 

    Case study – Coltraco Ultrasonics

    Coltraco Ultrasonics are high-exporting advanced manufacturers of ultrasonic instrumentation and systems, exporting 90% manufactured output to 120 countries. Coltraco have twice won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade and have exported to India for 30 years. Since 2019, Coltraco have won the contract for nearly 200 ships of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard and support in-service use and maintenance of their ultrasonic watertight integrity instrumentation on board. 

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said:

    Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.

    The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.

    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Unlocking Access to India’s Untapped Procurement Market 

    For the first time, UK businesses will have guaranteed and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, covering goods, services and construction. UK businesses will be granted brand new access to approximately 40,000 tenders with a value of at least £38 billion a year. footnote 8 This will unlock significant opportunities spanning a range of sectors, including transport, healthcare and life sciences and green energy. Alongside this UK firms will, for the first time, have access to India’s procurement portal, connecting them to the information they need to make the best out of these opportunities – which will grow as India builds the infrastructure necessary for an economic superpower with the world’s largest population. 

    UK companies will also get exclusive treatment under the ‘Make in India’ policy, which currently provides preferential treatment for federal government procurement to businesses who manufacture or produce in India. However, this unprecedented treatment will mean that if at least 20% of a company’s product or service is from the UK, they will be treated as a ‘Class Two local supplier’– granting them the same status that is currently only ever given to Indian businesses.  

    Protecting Our Values 

    Throughout the negotiations, we have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, the environment, gender equality, and development. We have protected the NHS, defended the UK’s interests, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. This deal demonstrates our commitment to both workers and businesses, staying true to our values while driving economic growth.

    1. DBT CGE modelling. See Technical Annex

    2. World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024

    3. Projections are calculated using the methodology described in DBT’s Global Trade Outlook, February 2023

    4. Ibid.

    5. The methodology for estimating the value of duties can be found in Annex 5 of the technical annexes accompanying the UK-India FTA Scoping assessment

    6. 2021 England and Wales Census; 2021 NI Census; 2011 Scottish Census

    7. DBT inward investment results 2023 to 2024 (HTML version) – GOV.UK; ; Grant Thornton, Britain meets India 2024; Grant Thornton, India meets Britain tracker: 2023.

    8. This analysis utilises Top 200 Entity data from India’s e-procurement dashboard, for the financial years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23, which is not exhaustively used by all federal government agencies for all procurements. Therefore, several entities included within India’s market access schedule cannot be included within the analysis. This analysis does not take into account restrictions on access as a result of Make in India, the chapter thresholds and tenders for goods or services not covered by the government procurement chapter.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK concludes trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK concludes trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: DBT Technical Note: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building the best future for Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    Programme for Government 2025-26.

    The NHS will deliver 100,000 additional GP appointments and Scotland will have a ‘best in UK’ cost-of-living guarantee, including the permanent abolition of peak rail fares, First Minister John Swinney announced as he set out a Programme for Government against a backdrop of global economic challenges. 

    Speaking one year since he was elected First Minister and one year before the end of this Parliament, Mr Swinney committed to a package of cost-of-living initiatives for households and businesses and a new Six Point Export Plan to unlock target markets. He set out plans to strengthen the NHS with the delivery of extra GP appointments for key health risks such as high blood pressure, and 150,000 more NHS appointments and procedures, including a 50% increase in surgical procedures such as hip and knee replacements.  

    Key announcements include:   

    • 100,000 enhanced service GP appointments by March 2026 for key risk factors including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, obesity and smoking as well as more than 150,000 extra appointments and procedures, including surgeries and diagnostic tests, and target cancer pathways to tackle backlogs against the 62-day referral to treatment standard 
    • The cost-of-living guarantee which includes ongoing free prescriptions, eye exams, bus travel for 2.3 million people, free tuition for students and more than £6,000 in early learning and childcare support for each eligible child 
    • ScotRail peak rail fares abolished and the general alcohol ban on ScotRail trains removed and replaced with time and location restrictions 
    • Winter fuel payments for pensioners restored 
    • A new Six Point Export Plan, with a focus on actions to unlock target markets, and showcase Scotland to global buyers 
    • A national regeneration fund that will support at least 26 projects to renew and restore communities, with a focus on delivering more local jobs 
    • More rights and stronger protections for tenants, helping deliver more than 8,000 affordable homes, including for social and mid-market rent, and removing barriers on stalled building sites with the potential to deliver up to 20,000 new homes 

    The First Minister said:  

     “This Programme for Government is focused on providing the best cost-of-living support across the UK, as well as delivering a renewed and stronger NHS.   

     “When I became First Minister a year ago, I heard loud and clear people’s concerns about the NHS which is why I am taking serious action to ensure the NHS meets the needs of the public.  

    “This PfG also shows decisive action to protect Scotland’s economy and maximise our economic potential in the face of global challenges.   

     “It is being published earlier than usual, in part because it allows a clear year of delivery on the NHS and other public services, but also due to the scale of the looming economic challenge.    

     “It is a programme for a better Scotland, for a stronger NHS and a more resilient and wealthier Scotland. It is a Programme for Government that gets our nation on track for success.”  

     Background  

    Read the Programme for Government 2025-26

    Read the First Minister’s statement to the Scottish Parliament, 6 May 2025

    The First Minister also confirmed Scottish Government plans to introduce six Bills over the course of the 2025-26 parliamentary year – alongside 2 Bills due to be introduced before summer recess and 14 Bills already before the Scottish Parliament – including:  

    Bills for introduction:  

    • Budget (No. 5)   
    • Children and Young People (Care)   
    • Contract (Formation and Remedies)   
    • Digital Assets    
    • Heat in Buildings   
    • Non-surgical Cosmetic Procedures   

     Bills from Year 4 programme which will be introduced before summer recess:  

    • Building Safety Levy   
    • Crofting and Scottish Land Court   

    Scottish Government Bills currently proceeding through Parliament:   

    • Care Reform   
    • Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty)   
    • Community Wealth Building   
    • Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews   
    • Education   
    • Housing   
    • Land Reform   
    • Leases (Automatic Continuation etc.)   
    • Natural Environment   
    • Regulation of Legal Services   
    • Scottish Languages   
    • Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance)   
    • UEFA European Championship   
    • Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform 

    A’ togail an ama ri teachd as fheàrr do dh’Alba

    Am Prògram airson Riaghaltas 2025-26.

    Bheir an NHS seachad 100,000 coinneamh a bharrachd le dotairean-teaghlaich. Gheibh Alba cuideachd gealladh gur i an dùthaich san Rìoghachd Aonaichte far am faigh daoine an dòigh-bheatha as fheàrr a dh’aindeoin staing nan cosgaisean bith-beò – mar eisimpleir, le bhith a’ cur às do na faraidhean rèile as daoire aig Rèile na h-Alba. Mhìnich am Prìomh Mhinistear Iain Swinney seo is e a’ cur an cèill Prògram airson Riaghaltas mu choinneamh dhùbhlain eaconamach na cruinne.

    ’S e a’ bruidhinn aon bhliadhna bhon a chaidh a thaghadh mar Phrìomh Mhinistear is aon bhliadhna gun crìochnaich a’ Phàrlamaid seo, thug Mgr Swinney seachad gealladh gun cuireadh an Riaghaltas an sàs iomairtean a thaobh chosgaisean bith-beò às leth dhachaighean is ghnothachasan. Gheall e gun dèigheadh Plana ùr fhoillseachadh anns a bheil Sia Puingean a thaobh Às-mhalairt, gus fosgladh margaidhean air a bheil Alba ag amas. Mhìnich e cuideachd planaichean gus an NHS a neartachadh le bhith a’ toirt seachad barrachd choinneamhan le dotairean-teaghlaich airson prìomh chunnartan slàinte leithid brùthadh-fala àrd. A thuilleadh air an sin, thèid 150,000 coinneamh is obair-mheadaigeach a bharrachd a thoirt seachad fon NHS, agus nam measg bidh àrdachadh de 50% ann an obraichean-lannsa leithid a bhith a’ toirt chruaichnean is ghlùinean ùra do dhaoine.

    Mar phàirt de na prìomh rudan a thèid a chur an cèill tha:

    • 100,000 coinneamhan le dotairean-teaghlaich tron tèid seirbheis aig ìre nas àirde a thoirt seachad. Bidh seo air a choileanadh ron Mhàrt 2026 is dèiligidh iad ris na prìomh rudan a chomharras cunnartan slàinte, mar eisimpleir: brùthadh-fala àrd, coileastarail àrd, àrd-ìre de shiùcar-fala, reamhrachd agus smocadh. Thèid cuideachd 150,000 coinneamh is obair-mheadaigeach a bharrachd a thoirt seachad. Am measg iad seo bidh obraichean-lannsa is deuchainnean diagnosach, is slighean leigheis airson aillse gus an tèid dèiligeadh ri cùisean air an deach maill a chur. Bidh seo a’ coileanadh na bun-inbhe a chanas nach bi neach a’ feitheamh barrachd air 62 latha eadar iad a bhith a’ faighinn iomradh airson leigheas agus an leigheas fhèin.
    • Gealladh a thaobh chosgaisean bith-beò far an lean daoine orra a bhith a’ faighinn òrduighean-chungaidhean saor an-asgaidh, deuchainnean sùla, siubhal air bus do 2.3 millean neach, oideachadh saor an-asgaidh do dh’oileanaich agus còrr air £6000 as fhiach de thaic airson tràth-ionnsachadh is cùram-cloinne do gach leanabh aig a bheil cothrom air.
    • Gun tèid cur às do na faraidhean as àirde aig Rèile na h-Alba. Bidh cuideachd an casg a tha ann an-dràsta a thaobh a bhith ag òl deoch-làidir air a thoirt air falbh is bacaidhean sònraichte a rèir àm agus àite air an cur ann.
    • Gun tèid pàigheadh connaidh a’ Gheamhraidh do pheinnseanairean a thoirt air ais.
    • Plana ùr anns a bheil Sia Puingean a thaobh Às-mhalairt, a chuireas fòcas air gnìomhan gus fosgladh margaidhean air a bheil Alba ag amas, agus gus an dùthaich a thaisbeanadh do cheannaichean na cruinne.
    • Maoin ath-bheòthachaidh nàiseanta a chuireas taic ri co-dhiù 26 pròiseactan gus ath-nuadhachadh is ath-thogail a thoirt air coimhearsnachdan, is far am bi fòcas air barrachd obraichean ionadail ùra a thoirt seachad.
    • Barrachd chòraichean is ceumannan dìona nas treasa do luchd-gabhail, a chuidicheas ann a bhith a’ toirt seachad còrr air 8,000 dachaigh aig prìs reusanta, is cuid dhiubh sin air an cur a-mach air màl sòisealta no meadhan na margaidh. Thèid cuideachd cur às do chnapan-starra a tha a’ fàgail gu bheil cuid a làraichean togail nan tàmh – rud aig a bheil an comas a bhith a’ toirt seachad suas ri 20,000 dachaigh ùr.

    Thuirt am Prìomh Mhinistear:

    “Tha am Prògram airson Riaghaltas seo a’ cur fòcas air a bhith a’ toirt seachad na taice as fheàrr anns an Rìoghachd Aonaichte a thaobh chosgaisean bith-beò, a thuilleadh air a bhith a’ toirt seachad NHS a tha nas làidire agus air ùrachadh.

    “Nuair a chaidh mo thaghadh mar Phrìomh Mhinistear o chionn bliadhna, chaidh na draghan a tha aig daoine mun NHS a dhèanamh soilleir dhomh is ’s ann air sgàth sin a tha mi a’ cur an sàs ghnìomhan cudromach a nì cinnteach gu bheil an NHS a’ coileanadh feumalachdan a’ phobaill.

    “Anns a’ Phrògram seo chithear cuideachd gu bheil sinn a’ leantainn ghnìomhan le cinnt gus eaconamaidh na h-Alba a dhìon is làn-chomas na h-eaconamaidh againn a thoirt gu buil an aghaidh dhùbhlain aig ìre na cruinne.

     “Tha am Prògram air fhoillseachadh nas tràithe na ’s àbhaist, gu ìre seach gu bheil seo a’ toirt bliadhna shlàn far an urrainn do gheallaidhean a bhith air an coileanadh a thaobh an NHS is seirbheisean poblach eile, ach cuideachd air sgàth meud an dùbhlain eaconamaich a tha romhainn.

    “’S e prògram a tha ann airson Alba nas fheàrr, NHS nas làidire agus Alba a tha nas seasmhaiche agus nas beartaiche. ’S e seo Prògram airson Riaghaltas tron tèid an dùthaich againn a thilleadh don rathad as soirbheachaile.”

     Cùl-fhiosrachadh

    Dhearbh am Prìomh Mhinistear cuideachd na planaichean aig Riaghaltas na h-Alba gus sia Bilean a thoirt a-steach don phàrlamaid thairis air bliadhna na pàrlamaid 2025-26. Tha iad seo a thuilleadh air dà Bhile a tha san amharc tighinn do Phàrlamaid na h-Alba ro fhosadh an t-samhraidh agus 14 Bile a tha mu thràth mu choinneamh na Pàrlamaid. Nam measg, tha:

    Bilean rin toirt a-steach: 

    • Buidseat (Àir. 5)  
    • Clann agus Daoine Òga (Cùram)  
    • Cùmhnant (Cruthachadh agus Leasachadh)  
    • Maoinean Didseatach
    • Teas ann an Togalaichean
    • Obraichean-maise air nach fheum Obair-lannsa

    Bilean bho phrògram Bliadhna 4 a thèid a chur don phàrlamaid ro fhosadh an t-samhraidh: 

    • Bile na Cìse airson Sàbhailteachd Thogalaichean
    • Bile na Croitearachd agus Cùirt Fearainn na h-Alba

    Bilean le Riaghaltas na h-Alba a tha sa Phàrlamaid:  

    • Bile airson Ath-leasachadh Cùraim  
    • Bile na Cloinne (A bhith a’ tighinn a-mach à Foghlam Creidimh agus Atharrachadh air Dleastanas Co-fhreagarrachd an UNCRC)
    • Bile airson Togail Beartas Choimhearsnachdan
    • Bile airson Ùrachadh Ceartas Eucorach is Sgrùdaidhean air Giùlan Mì-ghnàthach san Dachaigh
    • Bile an Fhoghlaim  
    • Bile an Taigheadais
    • Bile airson Ath-leasachadh Fearainn
    • Bile na Gabhalach (Fèin-leantainn msaa.)
    • Bile na h-Àrainneachd Nàdarra
    • Bile airson Riaghladh Sheirbheisean Lagha
    • Bile nan Cànan Albannach
    • Bile airson Foghlam agus Trèanadh Iar-sgoile (Maoineachadh agus Riaghladh)
    • Bile airson Co-fharpais Eòrpach UEFA
    • Bile airson Ath-leasachadh a thaobh Luchd-fulaing, Luchd-fianais agus Ceartas

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: cheqd and Anonyome Labs Partner to Transform Digital Identity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — cheqd, a decentralised payment and trust infrastructure provider, has entered into a strategic partnership with Anonyome Labs, a pioneer in consumer privacy, cyber safety, and digital identity.

    By integrating cheqd’s decentralized identity and on-chain payment capabilities with Anonyome Labs’ Verifiable Credentials offering, the partnership establishes a trusted, scalable foundation for issuing, verifying, and monetising digital credentials. The combined solution is built to streamline onboarding, reduce fraud, and enhance privacy across sectors including education, finance, healthcare, insurance, and more.

    Next-Generation Identity Infrastructure

    The partnership brings together cheqd’s decentralized identity stack with Anonyome Labs’ Verifiable Credentials offerings to streamline identity verification, combat fraud, and protect personal information. The integrated solution enables individuals and organisations to receive credentials through personal or enterprise wallets and share them securely and privately with any relying party. By placing control in the hands of users, the partnership enables privacy-first interactions while helping organisations reduce operational friction and meet compliance requirements, ultimately improving customer experiences and reducing fraud.

    “cheqd’s on-chain payment rails further enhance the value of Anonyome Labs’ Verifiable Credential offerings by unlocking new revenue models for credential issuers. For the first time, organisations can generate direct value for their role in the digital identity ecosystem by charging for credentials they issue,” said JD Mumford, Anonyome Labs CEO.

    “The future of digital identity must be commercially sustainable to thrive. By introducing monetisation models for credential issuers, we’re proving that privacy and profit can go hand-in-hand. This partnership is a major step towards that future. Moreover, developers no longer have to choose between privacy and functionality,” said Fraser Edwards, Co-founder and CEO of cheqd.

    Developer-First Approach to Digital Identity Integration

    The joint solution also supports seamless integration for developers and enterprises. Anonyome Labs’ SDKs, APIs, and white-label apps make it easy to build and deploy digital identity features – from mobile wallets to credential services. With cheqd’s infrastructure embedded, organisations can rapidly deliver user-centric identity experiences that are secure, scalable, and monetisable from day one.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3a8773b7-f56a-43d1-b889-a7ddf04ec209

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TopLine Financial Credit Union Receives Statewide Recognition for Adult Financial Education Efforts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MAPLE GROVE, Minn., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based member-owned financial services cooperative, was named winner of the Desjardins Financial Education Award. The award, sponsored by the Minnesota Credit Union Network (MnCUN) recognized credit unions for superior adult financial education programs benefitting the credit union’s members and communities. The Desjardins award is named after credit union pioneer Alphonse Desjardins and emphasizes the movement’s longtime commitment to financial education.

    TopLine was awarded in the Desjardins Adult Category for the credit union’s Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors (CCUFC) designation. 37% of all TopLine employees have received their Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors (CCUFC) designation through Credit Union National Association’s (CUNA) Financial Counseling Certification Program (FiCEP). This supports TopLine’s commitment in providing financial expertise, guidance and resources that meet members’ individual needs to improve their financial wellness, creating a dynamic point of differentiation for the credit union.

    In addition, TopLine partnered with Knowledge of Financial Education (KOFE), a financial resource vendor to create an online, self-help Financial Learning Center that provides free resources, tools and financial guidance, which includes videos, downloadable publications, budgeting tools, live chats with financial counselors, calculators, webinars, podcasts, interactive courses, games and more.

    “We are honored to receive recognition for our dedicated efforts in providing financial education opportunities that enhance the financial well-being of our members and communities,” stated Mick Olson, President and CEO of TopLine Financial Credit Union. “Our commitment remains steadfast in assisting consumers by fostering sound financial habits through enhanced financial wellness guidance.”

    The Minnesota Credit Union Network is the statewide trade association that works to ensure the success, growth and vitality of Minnesota credit unions. For more information, visit www.mncun.org.

    TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based credit union, is Minnesota’s 9th largest credit union, with assets of over $1.1 billion and serves over 70,000 members. Established in 1935, the not-for-profit financial cooperative offers a complete line of financial services from its ten branch locations — in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Circle Pines, Coon Rapids, Forest Lake, Maple Grove, Plymouth, St. Francis and in St. Paul’s Como Park — as well as by phone and online at www.TopLinecu.com or www.ahcu.coop. Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or volunteers in Anoka, Benton, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Washington and Wright counties in Minnesota and their immediate family members, as well as employees and retirees of Anoka Hennepin School District #11, Anoka Technical College, Federal Premium Ammunition, Hoffman Enclosures, Inc., GRACO, Inc., and their subsidiaries. Visit us on our Facebook or Instagram. To learn more about the credit union’s foundation, visit www.TopLinecu.com/Foundation.

    CONTACT:
    Vicki Roscoe Erickson
    Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
    TopLine Financial Credit Union
    verickson@toplinecu.com | 763.391.0872

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fd3055e5-ac8f-4e5d-98be-c6e08644938c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa shareholders approve all agenda items at the Annual General Meeting

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    About 1,500 shareholders followed today’s 72th Annual General Meeting of Deutsche Lufthansa AG online. A total of 42,16 percent of the share capital was represented. Nine items were on the agenda for the Annual General Meeting. The shareholders of the company approved all items by a large majority.

    The shareholders thereby approved the actions of the members of the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board for the 2024 financial year by a large majority.

    The items on the agenda of the Annual General Meeting included the appropriation of balance sheet profits, which provides for the distribution of a dividend of EUR 0.30 per share, and the election of members of the Supervisory Board. Erich Clementi, Dr. Astrid Stange, and Angela Titzrath were re-elected to the Supervisory Board. Dr. Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of Canadian airline the WestJet Airlines, was newly elected to the Supervisory Board.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PASSED: Congressman Moran’s No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act

    Source: Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01)

    Washington, D.C. ­– The House of Representatives unanimously passed Congressman Nathaniel Moran’s (R-TX-01) No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act. This legislation that would prohibit Department of State contracts with companies tied to forced labor in the Xinjian region of China. Congressman Moran spoke in support of the legislation ahead of its passage in the House.

    “Slavery in any form is morally repugnant, and America—known on the international stage as a beacon of freedom and liberty—must not be complicit in the Chinese Communist Party’s genocide and oppression of the Uyghur people,”said Congressman Moran. “The United States must push back on China, not only in our words, but through our actions. Failing to do so enables the CCP to grow in strength and exert its malign influence over the world. It is past time we enforce accountability against our greatest adversary.”

    Watch Congressman Moran’s Full Remarks HERE

    Congressman Moran’s Full Remarks as Delivered:
     “I rise today in strong support of the No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act. I urge my colleagues to support this critical legislation that would prohibit U.S. State Department contracts with companies tied to forced labor in the Xinjiang region of China.

    “Our bill would ensure that U.S. funds are not used to finance projects in partnership with companies or organizations that import products mined or manufactured in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China.

    “Many basic goods that we consider to be part of our everyday lives as Americans are produced in Xinjiang, including textiles, bricks, cotton, and polysilicon.

    “As home to the majority of China’s cotton, coal, and natural gas reserves, and representing one-sixth of China’s land mass, the Xinjiang region is central to China’s economy.

    “It is considered to be the ‘core hub’ for China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which is China’s primary tool to exert economic influence across the globe.

    “China’s economy relies in large part on Xinjiang, yet behind its industries lie a horrifying reality—mass detention, forced labor, and brutal oppression of the people who live there.

    “The CCP is oppressing the Uyghur people and other ethnic minorities by detaining them in what they call ‘re-education centers’ for forced labor in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China.

    “Slavery in any form is morally repugnant, and America—known on the international stage as a beacon of freedom and liberty—must not be complicit in the Chinese Communist Party’s genocide and oppression of the Uyghur people.

    “The United States must push back on China, not only in our words, but through our actions. Failing to do so enables the CCP to grow in strength and exert its malign influence over the world. It is past time we enforce accountability against our greatest adversary. 

    “The U.S. must act decisively against the companies that profit from these abuses and take a firm stand against totalitarian regimes.

    “The CCP asserts its control over the Uyghur people through threats, intimidation, confinement, and physical and emotional abuse. Failing to confront China empowers gross human rights abuses and allows for the spread of such atrocities to be determined by the CCP.

    “Our legislation will ensure that our State Department plays no part in the forced slave labor of the Uyghur people.

    “America must continue to lead with strength and morality on the world’s stage and refuse to fund these brutal tactics and cruelty. Passing this critical legislation is the first step, and I urge my colleagues to vote yes. With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First ever MPA byelaw prosecution secures guilty plea and £40,000 financial order

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    First ever MPA byelaw prosecution secures guilty plea and £40,000 financial order

    The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has secured the first successful prosecution for a contravention of an MMO marine protected area (MPA) byelaw.

    On 2 May 2025, at Newcastle Magistrates Court, Christoph Gouy, Master of the French-registered fishing vessel Pierre D’Ambre, pleaded guilty to using bottom towed fishing gear in a prohibited area of the Offshore Brighton Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) in April 2024 and other related offences.  

    The case resulted in the master and owner receiving over £40,000 in fines, victim surcharge and costs for illegal bottom towed fishing activity within the Offshore Brighton Marine Conservation Zone and other linked offences. 

    The Marine Protected Areas Bottom Towed Fishing Gear Byelaw 2023 came into force on 22 March 2024. A 50-day notification period preceded the byelaw’s implementation and was widely communicated. The day before the offences took place the vessel was also notified about the upcoming restrictions. 

    The Offshore Brighton MCZ, located approximately 45km south of Selsey Bill, West Sussex, protects 862km² of biodiverse seabed habitats including coarse sands, gravels, and exposed bedrock. These habitats support a variety of marine life essential for a healthy and functioning marine ecosystem, including burrowing worms and sea anemones. 

    The MMO introduced the byelaw following a detailed impact assessment, evidence gathering and public consultation on proposed measures for 13 marine protected areas (MPAs). The ban on bottom towed fishing gear in specified areas within these MPAs is in place to ensure the conservation and recovery of these vulnerable habitats and species. 

    Peter Clark, Director of Operations at MMO, said:  

    This landmark case demonstrates MMO’s commitment to protecting our precious marine environment. Effective enforcement of byelaws like this one is essential to ensure our MPAs deliver real ecosystem benefits. Healthy seas are the foundation of a thriving, sustainable fishing industry. This successful prosecution shows that we will act decisively to uphold the rules and safeguard the long-term future of our marine environment.

    This case marks a significant step towards MMOs upholding the commitment to sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation. 

    Find out more: www.gov.uk/marine-protected-areas

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Launches Colorado Property Tax Map as a Central Source to Understand Taxing Jurisdictions and Property Tax Rates

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Jared Polis, the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and the Governor’s Office of Information Technology (OIT) launched a new pilot Colorado Property Tax Map to offer Coloradans a centralized, accessible and reliable source to estimate property taxes and view statewide taxing jurisdictions and boundaries. This first-of-its-kind map aggregates data provided to the state by local governments and displays historical taxing, parcel and levy information in a way that has never been done, adding context and clarity to an often confusing subject. This map is launching just shy of a year since the landmark property tax deal last legislative session that helps save Coloradans money on their property taxes. 

    “In Colorado, we have made it one of our top priorities to decrease property taxes for all Coloradans. I am excited to launch the Colorado Property Tax Map tool to take the stress out of taxes by offering a user-friendly map to remove the guesswork for Coloradans,” said Governor Polis. 

    This map is a great resource for last year’s property tax information. It gives property owners and other interested parties a good picture of value, taxing jurisdictions that collect taxes against their property and what mill levies were in the last year. 

    “DOLA’s vision is to work collaboratively across agencies to be innovative in our approach to strengthen local communities,” said Maria De Cambra, DOLA’s Executive Director. “This map is a perfect example of this vision coming to fruition to add a new level of transparency to a subject that is often confusing to many Coloradans.” 

    “The Colorado Property Tax map puts the tremendous power of Geographic Information Systems directly in the hands of Coloradans,” added state Chief Information Officer David Edinger. “We are thankful for the joint partnership between the Governor’s Office, DOLA and our GIS Coordination & Development Program within OIT to solve real-world problems through innovative geospatial cloud technology.” 

    The Colorado Property Tax Map can be viewed from any device and does not require an account. Visit https://dpt.colorado.gov/property-tax-map for more information and to access the map. A Property Tax Map Help Guide is available at https://gis.colorado.gov/proptaxmap/?page=Help. 

    ### 

    About the Governor’s Office of Information Technology 

    The Colorado Governor’s Office of Information Technology (OIT) is a dynamic organization responsible for the operation and delivery of information and communications technology services across Executive Branch agencies in the State of Colorado. OIT’s purpose is to ensure an accessible, trustworthy and resilient technology experience for Colorado by supporting state agencies whose missions are critical to serving Coloradans. OIT oversees technology initiatives at the state level and recommends strategies to maximize efficiencies and offer cost-effective services. The Office’s enterprise approach also enables the agile delivery of new applications to state agencies that improve the overall customer experience and access to government services while increasing accountability and transparency. 

    About the Department of Local Affairs 

    The Colorado Department of Local Affairs’ (DOLA) vision is to strengthen Colorado communities, and DOLA serves as the primary interface between the State and local governments. The Department provides financial support to local communities along with professional and technical services (including training and technical assistance) to community leaders in the areas of governance, housing, and property tax administration. While all state governments provide such services through various departmental structures, Colorado’s approach is unique in that these local community services are gathered into a singular department, which has a central focus on increasing resiliency and enhancing livability and being a proactive leader in housing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ModelOp Unveils 2025 AI Governance Benchmark Report Showing Speed, Scale, and Trust Will Define the Next Era of Enterprise AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ModelOp, the leading AI lifecycle automation and governance software for enterprises, announced today the release of its highly anticipated 2025 AI Governance Benchmark Report. Titled “AI’s Time-to-Market Quagmire: Why Enterprises Struggle to Scale AI Innovation”, the new report provides groundbreaking insights from 100 senior AI and data leaders in Financial Services, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Pharma, Biotech, Consumer Packaged Goods, Logistics, Manufacturing, Energy, and Retail across North America.

    It reveals the operational challenges that enterprises face in bringing to market and scaling AI initiatives – especially generative AI. With global AI spending expected to reach $631 billion by 2028, the report highlights a stark disconnect between enterprise ambitions and production results. Reasons include fragmented systems, inconsistent governance practices, and reliance on manual processes like spreadsheets and emails.

    Key Findings from the Report:

    • 56% of generative AI projects take between 6–18 months to move from intake to production.
    • 80% of enterprises have at least 51 generative AI use cases in the proposal phase, but most only have a handful of use cases in production.
    • While 72% of enterprises have fewer than 20 AI use cases in production, a wave of initiatives is coming, at least 90% of organizations have 21 or more use cases either in development or quality assurance.
    • 58% of enterprises said dealing with fragmented systems was among the biggest challenges to AI governance adoption.
    • 86% of enterprises run the risk of inconsistent reporting and duplicate work because they do not carry out AI assurance at the enterprise level.
    • 36% said they have budgeted more than $1M annually for AI governance software – demonstrating a trend towards ring-fencing funds for this purpose.

    “Executives are increasingly needing to demonstrate ROI for the significant investments in their AI initiatives,” says Jim Olsen, Chief Technology Officer at ModelOp. “There’s pressure for them to show leadership in new tech, drive transformation, and produce a competitive advantage — but they need to show that the tech is trustworthy too. Even if an enterprise does have well-defined governance policies, applying and enforcing them consistently across the many teams and systems involved is like herding cats if you’re doing it with spreadsheets and manual processes. Enterprises are realizing that AI governance is not a bureaucratic hurdle – they’re recognizing it as a trustworthy engine to accelerate and scale innovation. Effective AI governance is really about using AI lifecycle automation to coordinate the dozens of teams and systems involved with bringing AI to market and enforcing internal and regulatory policies consistently,” says Olsen.

    The report also showcases how early governance adoption correlates with faster deployment and stronger return on investment. A featured case study details how a major financial services firm cut time-to-market in half and reduced issue resolution time by 80% after implementing ModelOp’s AI lifecycle automation and governance software.

    “Speed will separate the leaders from the laggards,” added Olsen. “This report is a call-to-action for C-suite executives to embed automation and governance from the start, not as a check-the-box afterthought.”

    The full 2025 AI Governance Benchmark Report, developed in collaboration with Corinium Intelligence, is available now at no charge for download at https://www.modelop.com/ai-gov-benchmark-report.

    About ModelOp
    ModelOp is the leader in AI lifecycle automation and governance software, purpose-built for enterprises. It enables organizations to bring all of their AI initiatives – from GenAI and ML to regression models – to market faster, at scale, and with the confidence of end-to-end control, oversight, and value realization. ModelOp is used by the most complex and regulated institutions in the world – including major banks, insurers, regulatory bodies, healthcare organizations, and global CPG companies – because it delivers the structure, automation, and oversight necessary to operationalize AI at scale across the entire enterprise. In 2024, ModelOp received the prestigious AI Breakthrough Award for “Best AI Governance Platform” and was also recognized as a winner in Inc.’s Best in Business Awards in the AI & Data category. In 2025, it was awarded the “Best AI Governance Software Award” from Netty Awards and received Business Intelligence Group’s Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award. Follow ModelOp on LinkedIn.

    Media Contact
    Ria Romano, Partner
    RPR Public Relations, Inc.
    Tel. 786-290-6413

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a5372bd1-3e80-49a2-8d3a-0d588941c21a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ultimus Enhances Comprehensive Private Credit Fund Administration to Support Investment Managers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CINCINNATI, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ultimus Fund Solutions® (Ultimus®), a leading provider of comprehensive fund administration solutions, is pleased to announce it has expanded its comprehensive private credit fund administration services capabilities to address the evolving needs of private credit managers and increased demand in today’s dynamic investment landscape.

    With private credit strategies gaining significant traction, managing the intricate workflows and lifecycle of loans can present a complex series of challenges without the appropriate infrastructure. Recognizing these hurdles, Ultimus delivers an advanced solution designed to provide efficiency and oversight of private credit investments.

    “Our clients benefit from our best in class, fully integrated infrastructure that enables them to achieve their investment goals without being hindered by operational complexities,” remarked Gary Tenkman, Chief Executive Officer. “Ultimus delivers a powerful combination of expertise, technology, and precision to effectively support private credit management.”

    The Ultimus private credit team specializes in post-trade workflows, with deep expertise in tracking both syndicated and private loans. With the ability to facilitate the setup of various credit instruments, Ultimus’ accounting platform automates data flow from clients, agent banks, and third-party vendors for seamless integration and complete transparency. The private credit team collaborates closely with lenders, clients, and agent banks to accurately track loan positions, empowering credit managers to focus on broader investment goals without operational concerns.

    Ultimus’ private credit fund administration encompasses a wide range of solutions to meet the rigorous demands of credit managers, including trade capture, credit lifecycle activity, reconciliation, bank resolution, profit and loss (PnL) reporting, and advanced investment manager reporting.

    Key Services Provided by Ultimus Include:

    • Data Integration & Workflow: Trade capture, security master setup, credit facility position confirmation, and pricing via leading systems like FIS® Virtus, Xceptor and S&P Global.
    • Investment Manager Reporting: Custom reporting and flexible data analytics via FIS® Hedge Fund Portfolio Manager (HFPM) and other tools.
    • Accounting System: HFPM integrates security master services, transaction processing, position/cash reconciliation, PnL calculation, and pricing/reference data management to provide a streamlined accounting workflow.
    • Auxiliary Workflows: Document management, credit ratings, and classification services to maintain comprehensive operational oversight.

    These services are further enhanced by Ultimus’ ability to scale workflows efficiently and leverage data across its extensive client network. Ultimus also maintains strong industry relationships and access to real-time information, ensuring delivery of enriched data points to alleviate operational workloads for client teams.

    “As credit managers face increasing complexities in managing their loan portfolios, Ultimus brings scalability, precision, and a commitment to operational excellence,” said Jim Cass, President at Ultimus. “Our solutions are designed to streamline workflows, enhance data accessibility, and free up resources so our clients can focus on growing their portfolios. We are already seeing increased interest and demand for our tech-driven solutions.”

    Ultimus’ extensive track record and expertise in private credit fund administration provide private credit managers with the confidence to take on complex credit strategies. The advanced platforms and workflows are designed to empower clients to scale their portfolios while maintaining operational clarity and precision.

    About Ultimus
    Ultimus Fund Solutions (Ultimus) is a leading provider of full-service tech-enhanced fund administration, accounting, middle office, and investor solutions to support the launching and servicing of registered funds, private funds, and public plans. The company also offers customized structures designed for the unique needs of pensions, endowments, foundations, and other large institutions. Ultimus’ deep commitment to excellence is achieved through investments in best-in-class technology, compliance programs, organization-wide cyber security efforts, and hiring seasoned professionals.

    Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, with offices in other major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Denver, and Omaha, Ultimus employs more than 1,100 seasoned accountants, attorneys, paralegals, application developers, fund administrators, compliance specialists, and many others with years of experience in the financial services industry. Servicing over 2,100 total traditional and alternative funds, Ultimus helps investment managers and fund families flourish in today’s increasingly sophisticated and dynamic investment landscape. For more information, visit www.ultimusfundsolutions.com.

    CONTACT: Marketing@UltimusFundSolutions.com

    COD00000679 5/5/2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart CEO Nathan (Nenter) Chow Delivers Keynote at TOKEN2049: Shaping Crypto’s Future: AI-Powered Scale and Institutional Trust

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dubai, UAE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nathan (Nenter) Chow, the new global CEO of BitMart, the world’s leading crypto asset trading platform, was invited to attend the Dubai TOKEN2049 conference and delivered a keynote speech entitled “Shaping Crypto’s Future: AI-Powered Scale and Institutional Trust“. Nenter deeply analyzed the current status of industry development and proposed a strategic concept of AI promoting leapfrog development of the industry.

    In his sharing, Nenter first analyzed that the current crypto market is at a critical turning point. Although the overall crypto market has shown a growth trend since 2025, problems such as liquidity fragmentation and imperfect compliance frameworks still restrict the full entry of institutional investors. According to the latest research data, the scale of global digital assets is expected to reach 20-30 trillion US dollars by 2030, but achieving this goal requires solving key issues such as the division of roles between traditional finance and crypto ecology, the transparency of risk management tools, and technical barriers.

    AI-driven scalability – not only developing the market, but also changing the market. Nenter focused on the three major directions in which AI drives the development of the crypto industry. The first is to promote the deep integration of traditional finance and the crypto market, and to build a global market with free flow of assets by clarifying the role positioning of each participant. The second is to use AI technology to achieve an efficiency revolution, including using reinforcement learning algorithms to optimize cross-platform transaction paths and strengthening security monitoring through deep learning models. 

    Looking ahead, Nenter pointed out that despite challenges such as trade barriers, there is light at the end of the tunnel. He said: “When large banks begin to directly allocate digital assets, the real institutionalization wave will come, which requires us to build a trust infrastructure that takes into account privacy and compliance. BitMart will also continue to promote the coordinated development of AI technology innovation and institutional construction, with user empowerment as the core, to jointly build an open, interconnected and trusted crypto future.”

    About BitMart
    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,700+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit their Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Disclaimer:
    Use of BitMart services is entirely at your own risk. All crypto investments, including earnings, are highly speculative in nature and involve substantial risk of loss. Past, hypothetical, or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

    The value of digital currencies can go up or down and there can be a substantial risk in buying, selling, holding, or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sompo appoints Nicholas Walsh as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors for Sompo International Holdings Ltd.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PEMBROKE, Bermuda, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sompo, a leading global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (re)insurance, today announced the appointment of Nicholas Walsh as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors for Sompo International Holdings Ltd. (“SIH”)

    Mr Walsh, who has been an Independent Non-Executive Director of SIH since June 2022, succeeds James Shea who last month was appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sompo P&C, in addition to his role as CEO and Executive Director, SIH.

    Mr Shea said: “We are delighted that Nicholas Walsh has become our new SIH Board Chairman. Nic is a highly respected leader with more than 50 years of experience in insurance and his expertise has been invaluable to us since he first joined our Board three years ago. Nic’s new appointment comes at an exciting time for Sompo as we continue to expand our business around the world. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his guidance and insights, helping us put our customers and trading partners even more at the center of everything we do.”

    Mr Walsh spent 42 years with AIG, holding numerous leadership positions. He retired in 2014 as Vice Chairman of AIG Property and Casualty Inc. and previously served as Executive Vice President of AIG Inc., CEO of AIG’s international general insurance business and chair of several AIG regional companies.

    Mr Walsh has extensive experience on international boards and international societies. Since 2020, he has been an independent director of McGill Global Solutions LLC, and from 2020-2024 McGill & Partners Ltd. From 2014 to 2019, Mr Walsh was an independent director of Jardine Lloyd Thompson (JLT) PLC, a London-based multinational insurance broker, and JLT’s US subsidiaries. Mr Walsh also serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Endurance Worldwide Insurance Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SIH.

    In addition to Mr Walsh’s appointment, Monica Cramér Manhem has been appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Yoshihiro Uotani, Sompo Group Chief Risk Officer (CRO) has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director to the Board of Directors of SIH.

    Monica Cramér Manhem has served as Independent Non-Executive Director SI Insurance (Europe), SA (“SIIE”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SIH, since 2023. Prior to this, she was CEO at SiriusPoint International, the largest reinsurance company in Scandinavia. With nearly 40 years of experience in the insurance and reinsurance industry, Monica is a seasoned industry executive. She joined Sirius International in 1985 and was a board director between 2014-2022.

    Yoshihiro Uotani was appointed Senior Executive Vice President of Sompo Holdings in April 2025. He has served as Group Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and Executive Officer of Sompo Holdings, Inc. since April 2021. Mr Uotani leads the company’s global risk teams and has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, having worked across multiple international locations including Germany, the UK, the US and Japan.

    Mr Shea said: “The appointments of Monica and Uotani-san will strengthen even further the depth of expertise within our SIH Board. Monica brings with her broad expertise across underwriting, communications, analytics, strategic and regulatory topics and is a respected industry leader. As Group CRO, Uotani-san’s extensive knowledge will help us to navigate a complex and rapidly moving global risk landscape as we continue to take our business from strength to strength.”

    About Sompo

    We are Sompo, a global provider of commercial and consumer property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on the 135 years of innovation of our parent company, Sompo Holdings, Inc., Sompo employs approximately 9,500 people around the world who use their in-depth knowledge and expertise to help simplify and resolve your complex challenges. Because when you choose Sompo, you choose The Ease of Expertise™.

    “Sompo” refers to the brand under which Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda-based holding company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, operates its global property and casualty (re)insurance businesses. Sompo International Holdings Ltd. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings, Inc., one of the leading property and casualty groups in the world with excellent financial strength as evidenced by ratings of A+ (Superior) from A.M. Best (XV size category) and A+ (Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. Shares of Sompo Holdings, Inc. are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

    To learn more please follow us on LinkedIn or visit sompo-intl.com.

    Sompo Contact
    Mike Jones
    Global Head of Media Relations         
    M: +44 7765 901899
    E: mijones@sompo-intl.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TWAICE Rolls Out 15+ Product Enhancements to Help BESS Operators Turn Complexity into Revenue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TWAICE, a leading provider of predictive analytics software for battery energy storage systems (BESS), today announced more than 15 major product enhancements. This rapid pace of innovation reflects the industry’s urgent need for solutions that bridge technical excellence with financial performance, as operators navigate overwhelming data volumes, growing system complexity, and dynamic market demands.

    A highlight among the latest developments is the launch of Penalty Risk Assessment, a breakthrough feature that helps operators avoid costly penalties by making State of Charge (SoC) issues easier to understand and act on. Compared to often inaccurate battery management system (BMS) estimates, the new tool indicates when systems operate near risky thresholds and provides SoC limit recommendations based on real-world system behavior. With these insights, operators can deliver power more reliably when electricity prices are highest, avoid penalties, and protect assets for long-term value.

    “As the energy storage industry scales and evolves, many of our customers are encountering new and complex challenges that they haven’t faced before,” said Stephan Rohr, Co-CEO and founder at TWAICE. “At TWAICE, we focus on anticipating these emerging needs and delivering innovations that provide immediate, practical value. Our latest feature rollouts give operators the clarity, control, and confidence they need to optimize increasingly complex systems.”

    Solving Real-World Operational Challenges with Actionable Insights and User-Friendly Tools
    Among the many enhancements, four of the new features, in particular, show how TWAICE is tackling the industry’s toughest operational challenges, including:

    • Maximizing Availability: TWAICE’s Usable and Recoverable Energy KPIs help operators quickly spot and prioritize issues impacting availability and performance. Combined with integration to Modo Energy’s financial platform, operators can now directly link hidden energy loss with revenue impact, enabling smarter asset management.
    • Protecting Long-term Asset Profitability: New Roundtrip Efficiency (RTE) monitoring ensures visibility beyond batteries to inverters and transformers. By capturing efficiency drops wherever they occur, RTE Insights enables early detection of performance degradation that could otherwise go unnoticed for months.
    • Managing Warranty and Contractual Risks: Customizable Warranty & Guarantee Tracker tied to 50+ KPIs allows proactive compliance monitoring, with predictive alerts before thresholds are crossed — saving costs and disputes.
    • Speeding Up Operational Decision Making: New Automated Reporting enhancements deliver tailored, deep-linked insights at the cadence needed — daily, weekly, or monthly, ensuring the right teams have the right information when it matters most.

    Each of these innovations addresses critical needs identified through close collaboration with TWAICE’s customers, such as BW ESS, a major operator of large-scale energy storage assets.

    “TWAICE’s battery analytics software gives us the visibility we need to make operational decisions more effectively, increase the availability of the BESS, and ensure our battery portfolio is operating safely and efficiently,” said the Head of Asset Management at BW ESS.

    To learn more about how the latest TWAICE features help energy storage operators navigate the evolving industry, visit https://www.twaice.com/.

    About TWAICE
    Since 2018, TWAICE has led the field of predictive battery analytics, meeting the demand for safe, durable, and highly available energy storage systems (BESS). While Battery Management Systems (BMS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS) offer basic monitoring capabilities, TWAICE provides advanced analytics that go deeper to optimize BESS performance and lifetime ROI. As a trusted partner to the industry, TWAICE offers unbiased insights to support objective decision-making independent of manufacturers, insurers, or service providers.
    www.twaice.com

    Media Contact:
    Justin Williams
    Trevi Communications for TWAICE
    justin@trevicomm.com
    +1 (978) 539-7157

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/07265179-9315-4cf8-9f8f-55a991ecdd9b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Abundance Energy, sonnen, and Energywell Unite to Develop Residential Battery-Enabled Virtual Power Plants in Texas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abundance Energy, sonnen, and Energywell Technology Licensing, LLC (“Energywell”) are joining forces to power the future of energy through the development of behind-the-meter, battery-enabled Virtual Power Plants (“VPP”) in Texas.

    The collaboration empowers Abundance Energy customers to use their sonnenConnect home batteries to support grid stability, ensure reliable energy delivery, and lower electricity costs while driving the development of smart, sustainable energy solutions.

    Optimized through the integration of Energywell’s Proton platform with sonnen’s advanced Virtual Power Plant battery control technology, each battery is continuously managed in response to market price signals, customer usage, and solar generation. Networked together, these batteries create a VPP, dynamically balancing energy supply and demand to maximize value for both the grid and the customer.

    “Our mission is to empower homeowners with smarter, more sustainable energy solutions,” said Thomas Mandry, CEO of Abundance Energy. “By combining sonnen’s best-in-class battery and Virtual Power Plant technology, Energywell’s market expertise through its Proton platform, we are delivering an innovative VPP model that benefits both customers and the Texas grid.”

    sonnen’s VPP technology intelligently manages energy supply and demand, ensuring stored solar or grid energy is strategically deployed when needed most. “Our VPP solutions enable customers to actively participate in the energy market while maintaining resilience in their homes,” said Blake Richetta, Chairman and CEO of sonnen. “With Abundance Energy, and Energywell, we’re setting a new standard for residential energy management.”

    Energywell’s Proton platform provides advanced forecasting and optimization tools to ensure batteries are dispatched in alignment with market opportunities. “The Texas energy landscape is evolving, and this partnership exemplifies the future of distributed energy,” said Michael Fallquist, CEO of Energywell. “By optimizing stored energy, we are reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions, building a smarter, cleaner, and more flexible grid.”

    This VPP initiative aligns with Texas’ growing demand for resilient, customer-driven energy solutions and paves the way for further innovation in the residential energy sector.

    About Abundance Energy

    Abundance Energy is a digital-native Retail Electric Provider (REP) startup licensed for operations in Texas. Abundance’s products include transparent fixed-rate residential plans and multi-meter Continuous Service Agreement plans for vacant property management with a built-to-purpose CSA customer platform. Abundance is part of the Quext family of companies that includes next-generation LoRaWAN proprietary IoT thermostats and smart locks for the multifamily market. Visit abundanceenergy.com for more information.

    About sonnen

    sonnen is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of smart energy storage systems for residential applications, and a pioneer of the residential battery based virtual power plant. The sonnen VPP is nationally recognized as a blueprint for the decentralized, digitalized, decarbonized energy system of the future. sonnen is one of the most experienced and fastest growing VPP energy storage companies in the world. sonnen has received many internationally recognized awards celebrating our technological achievement. sonnen products and services are used by the sonnenCommunity, a collection of visionaries around the world who share our vision of clean and affordable energy for everyone. In Texas, sonnen partners with SOLRITE Energy to bring their flagship Virtual Power Plant Power Purchase Agreement (VPA), to provide solar panels and home battery systems at no upfront cost.

    sonnen’s offices are located in Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the USA. sonnen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell. Learn more at: https://sonnenusa.com/en

    About Energywell

    Energywell is an energy technology company powering the sustainable energy transition. Energywell combines the financial strength of funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and capital and commodities expertise from Hartree Partners L.P. with proprietary technology and a seasoned team of energy industry veterans. Visit Energywell.com for more information.

    About Proton

    Energywell’s Proton platform delivers real-time energy insights and seamless device integration, empowering businesses and customers to optimize energy more sustainably. Proton uses cloud-native, event-driven architecture to ensure energy solutions scale quickly while maintaining the highest standards of security, including SOC 2 Type 2 compliance. Proton is available for licensing for third parties looking to accelerate their own energy management capabilities. Visit Energywell.com/proton for more information.

    Press Contact
    FischTank PR
    sonnen@fischtankpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. and The First of Long Island Corporation Announce Receipt of FDIC Approval for Merger

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. and MELVILLE, N.Y., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CNOB) (the “Company” or “ConnectOne”), parent company of ConnectOne Bank (the “Bank”), and The First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq: FLIC) (“First of Long Island”), parent company of The First National Bank of Long Island, today announced they have received the approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to proceed with the previously announced merger of ConnectOne and First of Long Island.

    Closing of the transaction is expected to occur on or about June 1, 2025, pending approvals or waivers from the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

    “We are pleased to have received FDIC approval to combine two highly complementary, client focused banks,” said Frank Sorrentino III, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ConnectOne. “By leveraging ConnectOne’s commercial expertise and modern infrastructure, we are well-positioned to serve First of Long Island’s distinguished client base. We look forward to unlocking new opportunities for our clients, employees, and stakeholders.”

    “I’m excited to move ahead with our proposed merger with ConnectOne,” commented Chris Becker, CEO of The First National Bank of Long Island. He added, “Following months of strategic and collaborative planning, our teams are ready to execute a seamless integration. I am thrilled to partner with an organization that values client service in the same way we do, and I look forward to ensuring a smooth transition for our clients.”

    Upon completion of the transaction, the combined company will operate under the ConnectOne brand, and will have approximately $14 billion in total assets, $11 billion in total deposits, and $11 billion in total loans. The combination will establish ConnectOne as one of the top 5 community banks on Long Island, in terms of deposit market share.

    About ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.

    ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc., is a modern financial services company that operates, through its subsidiary, ConnectOne Bank, and the Bank’s fintech subsidiary, BoeFly, Inc. ConnectOne Bank is a high-performing commercial bank offering a full suite of banking & lending products and services that focus on small to middle-market businesses. BoeFly, Inc. is a fintech marketplace that connects borrowers in the franchise space with funding solutions through a network of partner banks. ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the trading symbol “CNOB,” and information about ConnectOne may be found at https://www.connectonebank.com.

    About The First of Long Island Corporation

    The First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq: FLIC) is the parent company of The First National Bank of Long Island, a local bank founded in 1927 in Glen Head, New York. Through its branch network branded as First National Bank LI, the Bank focuses on business and consumer needs on Long Island and in New York City. The Bank offers a broad set of lending, deposit, investment, and digital products. First National Bank LI is known for its culture of delivering extraordinary service and a “Customer First” banking experience to small and middle market businesses, professional service firms, not-for-profits, municipalities and consumers. For more information about the Bank and Corporation visit fnbli.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained herein are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “continue,” or similar terms or variations on those terms, or the negative of those terms.

    Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in such statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results expressed in the forward-looking statements: failure to consummate the merger for any reason, including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals (and the risk that such approvals may result in the imposition of conditions that could adversely affect the combined company) or failure to satisfy any of the other closing conditions in a timely basis or at all; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the right of one or both of the parties to terminate the merger agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against ConnectOne or FLIC; and potential adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the announcement or completion of the transaction. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in ConnectOne’s and FLIC’s reports (such as the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and available at the SEC’s Internet website (www.sec.gov). Except as required by law, ConnectOne and FLIC do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statement is made.

    ConnectOne Investor Contact:
    William S. Burns
    Senior Executive VP & CFO
    201.816.4474; bburns@cnob.com

    First of Long Island Investor Contact:
    Janet T. Verneuille
    Senior Executive VP & CFO
    516.671.4900 Ext 7462; janet.verneuille@fnbli.com

    Media Contact:
    Shannan Weeks
    MikeWorldWide
    732.299.7890; sweeks@mww.com

    The MIL Network –