NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: TZA is Now Easy Metrics: A Unified Leader in Warehouse Performance Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BELLEVUE, Wash., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Easy Metrics, a leading warehouse performance management platform, today announced the full integration of TZA into the Easy Metrics brand. This unification combines the strengths of both companies to deliver the most comprehensive labor analytics solution available to warehouses and manufacturers.

    “Following last year’s acquisition of TZA and its ProTrack™ labor management system, we’ve brought together the best of both worlds,” said Dean Dorcas, CEO of Easy Metrics. “TZA’s tactical expertise and engineering strength perfectly complements our focus on financial and network-level insights. Together, we offer a true end-to-end solution.”

    The acquisition established Easy Metrics as an industry leader in the warehouse performance space—especially for companies managing multiple disparate systems and seeking network-wide visibility and control.

    “While Easy Metrics and TZA had different areas of expertise, labor management was our shared foundation,” said Dorcas. “But we now have it all combined into one company, moving far beyond that with warehouse performance management. With AI and machine learning, we’re helping customers uncover hidden inefficiencies, eliminate waste, and drive profitability across their entire network.”

    One of the critical aspects that helped make this a successful acquisition process is mutual alignment on culture. “We became one team very, very quickly,” Dorcas added. “TZA brought outstanding talent and deep consulting expertise to the table. We are incorporating TZA’s best-in-class change management and training program into the Easy Metrics model. And we’re retaining the ProTrack brand as part of a combined, more powerful labor management system to complement our operational financial management solutions. As a result, we’re better equipped than ever to support our customers.”

    Companies already using either company’s platform will experience a seamless integration, with the benefit of more features, says Dan Keto, President and CTO of Easy Metrics. “They’ll see a migration into a much-improved user experience with personalized support and training available.”

    “We give customers the visibility and control they need to operate more efficiently and profitably than ever before,” Dorcas said. As technology evolves with more automation and robotics working alongside employees, the real-time management of workflow data through Easy Metrics platform will evolve as well, so customers can drive out waste and increase efficiency, explained Dorcas. “This is the future of warehouse performance management, and we’re leading the way.”

    Easy Metrics is a portfolio company of Nexa Equity, a private equity firm dedicated to scaling B2B software businesses. Nexa invested in the company in 2024.

    About Easy Metrics
    Operations and finance leaders use Easy Metrics’ cloud platform to analyze, forecast, and manage the financial and operational performance of their warehouse operations. Easy Metrics empowers leaders to drive operational speed and efficiency, cut waste, prioritize investments, and adopt labor and automation strategies that fuel their business growth. Easy Metrics is based in Bellevue, Washington, and serves over 600 facilities. It is backed by Nexa Equity, a private equity firm based in San Francisco, CA. For more information, please visit https://easymetrics.com.

    About Nexa Equity
    Nexa Equity is a San Francisco, California-based private equity firm that partners with founder-led, rapidly scaling SaaS companies that address markets underserved by technology to create enduring value for the benefit of its investors and portfolio companies. The firm has more than $400 million in private equity capital under management. The Nexa Equity team brings substantial investing and operational experience to the table and helps management teams professionalize and scale their businesses while driving long-term sustainable growth. For more information, please visit www.nexaequity.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5785e728-a2d3-40c6-9783-0bef56bff13a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Armstrong Proclaims North Dakota Tourism Week

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    In celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week from May 4-10, 2025, Gov. Kelly Armstrong has officially proclaimed this week as North Dakota Travel and Tourism Week. This proclamation underscores the significance of tourism in the state and the welcoming spirit of its residents.

    This week serves to acknowledge the crucial role residents play in fostering the welcoming atmosphere that defines North Dakota and encourages visitors from around the world to explore the state’s diversity and say “Hello.”

    North Dakota’s hospitality is a powerful economic driver. As the third largest industry, tourism had an estimated $5.7 billion total economic impact in 2024. This success is attributed to welcoming communities that invite visitors to unwind, connect, and discover the unique people and places that make the state special. Visitation grew by 5.3%, with more than 25.6 million total visitors to North Dakota, and visitor spending increased to $3.3 billion, an 8.8% increase. The tourism industry employs more than 43,000 people and supports over 3,000 businesses statewide.

    “North Dakota’s welcoming spirit and diverse attractions make our state a unique destination,” said Armstrong. “The economic impact tourism has on our state, communities and businesses is significant and important to our economic growth.”

    Through the “HELLO” campaign, travelers are invited to discover the local charm and beauty of North Dakota. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to extend a warm welcome and enjoy the summer season with new experiences across the legendary state.

    North Dakota’s Tourism Week aligns with the U.S. Travel Association’s National Travel and Tourism Week, an annual event celebrating the importance of travel and tourism to the U.S. economy. More information about Travel and Tourism Week can be found at https://ndgov.link/NTTW25.

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK signs 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(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-india-free-trade-agreement-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 USA: Rep. Williams Introduces Federal Reserve Financial Accountability and Transparency Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), introduced the Federal Reserve Financial Accountability and Transparency Act to increase Congressional oversight of the Federal Reserve. This bill requires reporting on spending and staffing by activity, identification of top research areas, engagements with international banking organizations, and disclosure of costs for new regulations.

    “For too long, burdensome regulations have been piled onto our financial institutions without considering the impacts,”  said Chairman Roger Williams.“It is time that Congress has increased oversight and transparency over the Federal Reserve’s operations and expenses. Our financial regulators should be focusing on the health and safety of the financial sector and promoting U.S. interests globally.”

    The American Bankers Association is a supporting organization.

    Read the bill text here.

    ###

    Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Introduces New Legislation To Prohibit Presidents From Profiting Off Meme Coins While In Office

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    May 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday introduced the Modern Emoluments and Malfeasance Enforcement (MEME) Act, legislation to prevent corrupt federal officials from using their position to profit off digital assets such as meme coins. U.S. Representative Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    On January 17th, three days before the inauguration, President Donald Trump launched $TRUMP, a meme coin or digital asset with no inherent value. The coin was initially only worth a few cents, but it exploded in value upon limited release and drove Trump’s net worth temporarily north of $50 billion. Each time the coin is released and traded, Trump makes money from trading fees, and he and his family have made more than $100 million from these fees. There is no way to know who is buying the coin, which leaves the door wide open for billionaires, Russian oligarchs, and Saudi princes to secretly purchase $TRUMP and directly enrich the president in order to curry favor.
    Last month, Trump’s team announced the top 220 meme coin holders would be invited for an exclusive dinner with the president and the top 25 coin holders would get a “Special VIP Tour” of the White House. After that message went up, the price of $TRUMP jumped more than 50 percent and its market value soared to $2.7 billion. In just two days following the announcement of the dinner, Trump and his allies made nearly $900,000 in trading fees alone.
    The MEME Act would prohibit the President, Vice President, Members of Congress, senior Executive Branch officials, and their spouses and dependent children from issuing, sponsoring, or endorsing a security, future, commodity, or digital asset. After the asset’s issuance, the proposal would bar federal officials from engaging in the promotion or other conduct likely to benefit themselves financially. The legislation subjects violators to criminal and civil penalties.
    “The Trump meme coin is the single most corrupt act ever committed by a president. Donald Trump is essentially posting his Venmo for any billionaire CEO or foreign oligarch to cash in some favors by secretly sending him millions of dollars. It’s almost unbelievable until you remember this president will do whatever it takes – even selling access to the White House – to make himself richer. This is not normal, and we won’t let him get away with it,” said Murphy.
    “Even more disturbing than the kleptocratic actions of this President and his minions has been the utter silence of the Republican majority. That’s why, several weeks ago, I introduced the MEME Act—to make corruption criminal again. Since then, we’ve learned of the Trump family’s collection of hundreds of millions in fees, 220 $TRUMP investors being invited to an exclusive White House dinner, and Abu Dhabi investing $2 billion through the First Family’s stablecoin. This blatant corruption must end,” said Liccardo.
    Full text of the legislation can be found HERE. Click HERE to watch Murphy’s video on the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today. 

    The leaders began by celebrating the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement announced today – a deal which will add billions to the UK economy, boost wages and deliver on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    In a huge economic win for the UK, delivering for working people and British businesses, the Prime Minister underscored the need to go further and faster to get things done, to secure and renew our country.

    Through pragmatism and purpose, the leaders noted that this historic deal is the biggest the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the most ambitious India has ever done. Prime Minister Modi also thanked the Prime Minister for his decisive leadership in getting the deal over the line. 

    Turning to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir last month, the Prime Minister reiterated his deep condolences at the tragic and senseless loss of life. 

    Finally, Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to India, which the Prime Minister was pleased to accept and said he looked forward to visiting India at the earliest opportunity.

    They looked forward to speaking soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Cambridge Growth Company has appointed Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and other technical experts to develop a growth strategy for Greater Cambridge

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    The Cambridge Growth Company has appointed Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and other technical experts to develop a growth strategy for Greater Cambridge

    The Cambridge Growth Company (CGC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and others to prepare a vision, supported by a robust evidence base that will underpin a long-term growth strategy for Greater Cambridge.

    Published on behalf of the Cambridge Growth Company

    CGC will work collaboratively with locally elected leaders and the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. It will also access support from a number of government departments where required, to pursue infrastructure-led growth.

    This appointment marks a significant step towards shaping a sustainable and strategic future for the Greater Cambridge region working in parallel with but extending over a longer period than the emerging Local Plan. The Local Plan is being developed by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service representing Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council.

    The development of the evidence base has commenced as a first step in defining a vision for the future of Greater Cambridge that is sustainable, inclusive and innovative. By drawing on insights into the knowledge economy, infrastructure, housing, employment, transport, and the natural environment, the evidence base will act as a foundation for identifying challenges and opportunities, policy development and a future spatial strategy. Key areas of focus will be overcoming transport congestion and water scarcity.

    CGC is based in the city and has already commenced recruitment for a number of additional executive roles within the company to build its capacity and expertise over the coming months. These roles will be advertised locally in coming weeks.

    Buro Happold – Integrated consulting engineers and advisors is a globally recognised consultancy specialising in strategic planning, economics, infrastructure, design, engineering, environment and sustainability and strategic advisory services. With a strong track record in delivering large-scale city strategies, new communities and urban transformation projects.

    Buro Happold leads the team to shape the evidence base, strategy and implementation plan. Their contributions will ensure that the evidence base is grounded in data-driven insights, technical analysis and best practices for sustainable growth.

    Roger Savage, Project Director said:

    We look forward to working with local partners on addressing the challenges of the area. In developing the evidence base for the Growth Company we will consider ways which planning for growth can deliver a quality of life dividend for existing and future communities through investment in the environment and infrastructure.

    Prior + Partners is an acclaimed urban planning, masterplanning and economic consultancy known for its role in shaping major urban regeneration and expansion projects. Their experience in spatial planning, placemaking, data analytics and policy advisory will be instrumental in aligning the evidence base with Greater Cambridge’s unique needs, ensuring that growth is managed effectively and equitably.

    They will be supported by a multidisciplinary team with technical expertise and local knowledge, including BNP Paribas Real Estate, CBA, LUC, Peter Studdert, Turner and Townsend and Womble, and Bond Dickinson.

    By partnering with these leading experts in urban strategy and infrastructure planning, the Cambridge Growth Company is laying the groundwork to help Greater Cambridge realise its full potential.

    For further information please refer to CGC’s new website.

    Note to editors

    Cambridge Growth Company

    The Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP appointed Peter Freeman to chair the Cambridge Growth Company in October 2024. The government then committed £10 million to the CGC at the 2024 Autumn Statement.

    The CGC’s mission is to support Greater Cambridge in the creation of a delivery programme to bring forward an ambitious vision for long term growth. This vision will maximise the potential for the benefit of the city and the UK through enabling further growth of Cambridge’s knowledge and innovation industries.

    The CGC, which is supported by an Advisory Council consisting of elected local leaders and a range of local experts, will work with local government to establish the best long-term business model to fund infrastructural improvements — water supplies, the transport network, education, health, and the natural environment, ensuring that as much as possible is delivered from the increase in the land value of the sites to be developed.

    The intention is that the CGC in its current form transitions into a growth and delivery vehicle that has the capacity and capability to take a long-term approach to delivery.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump targets NPR and PBS as public and nonprofit media account for a growing share of local news coverage

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Matthew Powers, Professor of Communication, University of Washington

    The Seattle Times currently funds 30 reporter positions through philanthropy and government aid. AP Photo/Ted S. Warren

    Republicans in Washington have their sights – once again – on defunding public media.

    On May 1, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order calling for the termination of taxpayer support for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the nonprofit that helps fund American public media stations of all sizes, from NPR and PBS, to smaller outlets like WBHM in Birmingham, Alabama, and KGOU in Norman, Oklahoma.

    Many Republicans have denounced public media programming as biased, outdated or simply unnecessary.

    Beneath those familiar talking points lies a long-standing assumption: that the market already provides “abundant, diverse and innovative news options,” as the president’s executive order put it.

    That assumption is wrong. And the story of media in Washington state reveals why.

    Public media’s expanding footprint

    As a communication scholar at the University of Washington, I’ve studied journalism in Seattle and across Washington state for the past decade.

    During that time, I’ve watched for-profit journalism struggle to meet the needs of the region. For this reason, local news outlets have increasingly turned to other sources of revenue.

    The shift has been striking. Just 10 years ago, about 10% of all full-time journalists in Seattle worked for local, nonprofit affiliates of NPR and PBS. Today, that figure is closer to 30%.

    That growing share reflects investments by NPR affiliates like KUOW and KNKX and public television station Cascade PBS, which have expanded their coverage of critical topics like homelessness and immigration. Federal support plays a small but significant role, making up between 5% and 10% of their budgets. The rest of their funding comes from a combination of donations, sponsorship and philanthropic grants.

    However, public media’s expanding footprint is also a symptom of collapse elsewhere: corporate cutbacks at commercial broadcast media networks and stations, the shuttering of community newspapers and the disappearance of alt-weeklies, which sometimes challenged mainstream political or cultural narratives.

    To be sure, public media has not and cannot replace everything that has been lost. But it has helped fill the void left after once-iconic outlets like the Seattle Post-Intelligencer underwent huge layoffs.

    Donors, tax dollars plug holes

    Public media outlets are only one prong of an increasingly noncommercial local news system. In the past, local media were dominated by commercial players that garnered the lion’s share of their revenues through advertising.

    Now, more and more journalism jobs in the state of Washington, including those at commercial outlets, are sustained by philanthropy and government spending. The Seattle Times – which is still, by far, the largest newsroom in the city – pays 30 of its reporters through philanthropic funding. That’s roughly 20% of its entire newsroom. The national nonprofit Report for America has, since its inception in 2018, placed 13 reporters in towns and cities across Washington to cover underserved topics like rural health and veterans issues.

    Meanwhile, the Murrow News Fellowship, launched in 2023 and funded by Washington’s state Legislature, has enabled 16 full-time journalists to be hired for two-year stints in commercial, nonprofit and public media newsrooms around the state.

    Universities are also playing a role. Long a pipeline into the profession, undergraduate and graduate journalism programs have increasingly become a piece of the local news infrastructure. Roughly 10% of all state Legislature coverage in Washington, for example, is now produced by undergraduate student journalists. Many report for newsrooms that no longer have a dedicated journalist in Olympia, the state’s capital.

    Then-state Sen. Pramila Jayapal speaks to reporters in Olympia, Wash., about a proposal to make community and technical college free for state residents without a bachelor’s degree.
    AP Photo/Ted S. Warren

    News isn’t always profitable

    All of these examples – public media, philanthropic support for nonprofit outlets and jobs at for-profit media enterprises, and student journalism – meet needs that for-profit journalism can no longer address on its own.

    Of course, no funding model is perfect. Last year, KUOW laid off three newsroom staffers due to a budget shortfall. Cascade PBS journalists are threatening to strike over low pay. Some critics worry that philanthropic funding can subtly shape news organizations’ coverage priorities.

    But to pretend the market can fix these problems is to ignore that it played a key part in creating them. When a newsroom job disappears, it’s not because watchdog journalism has lost its civic value. It’s because it became hard to monetize.

    Professional reporting takes time and doesn’t inherently deliver high traffic or quick profits. But it does inform citizens, promote government accountability and strengthen communities.

    The push to defund NPR and PBS stems in large part from long-standing Republican antipathy toward public media. But it also rests on a belief that journalism should only survive if it can compete in the marketplace.

    In Washington state, we’ve already seen what happens when we rely on markets alone: fewer reporters, less oversight and a growing amount of AI-generated news that provides no original reporting.

    If these defunding efforts succeed, they will likely do real harm to local news. KNKX has warned that it would lead to “difficult decisions and sacrifices at the expense of access to local journalism.” KUOW has signaled that it would “immediately need to raise 1 million dollars” to offset the loss in federal funding.

    Translation: It could lead to fewer reporters and less reporting at a time when more of both is needed.

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

    – ref. Trump targets NPR and PBS as public and nonprofit media account for a growing share of local news coverage – https://theconversation.com/trump-targets-npr-and-pbs-as-public-and-nonprofit-media-account-for-a-growing-share-of-local-news-coverage-255740

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Being honest about using AI at work makes people trust you less, research finds

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Oliver Schilke, Director of the Center for Trust Studies, Professor of Management and Organizations, University of Arizona

    Whether you’re using AI to write cover letters, grade papers or draft ad campaigns, you might want to think twice about telling others. That simple act of disclosure can make people trust you less, our new peer-reviewed article found.

    As researchers who study trust, we see this as a paradox. After all, being honest and transparent usually makes people trust you more. But across 13 experiments involving more than 5,000 participants, we found a consistent pattern: Revealing that you relied on AI undermines how trustworthy you seem.

    Participants in our study included students, legal analysts, hiring managers and investors, among others. Interestingly, we found that even evaluators who were tech-savvy were less trusting of people who said they used AI. While having a positive view of technology reduced the effect slightly, it didn’t erase it.

    Why would being open and transparent about using AI make people trust you less? One reason is that people still expect human effort in writing, thinking and innovating. When AI steps into that role and you highlight it, your work looks less legitimate.

    But there’s a caveat: If you’re using AI on the job, the cover-up may be worse than the crime. We found that quietly using AI can trigger the steepest decline in trust if others uncover it later. So being upfront may ultimately be a better policy.

    Being caught using AI by a third party has consequences, as one New York attorney can attest.

    Why it matters

    A global survey of 13,000 people found that about half had used AI at work, often for tasks such as writing emails or analyzing data. People typically assume that being open about using these tools is the right choice.

    Yet our research suggests doing so may backfire. This creates a dilemma for those who value honesty but also need to rely on trust to maintain strong relationships with clients and colleagues. In fields where credibility is essential – such as finance, health care and higher education – even a small loss of trust can damage a career or brand.

    The consequences go beyond individual reputations. Trust is often called the social “glue” that holds society together. It drives collaboration, boosts morale and keeps customers loyal. When that trust is shaken, entire organizations can feel the effects through lower productivity, reduced motivation and weakened team cohesion.

    If disclosing AI use sparks suspicion, users face a difficult choice: embrace transparency and risk a backlash, or stay silent and risk being exposed later – an outcome our findings suggest erodes trust even more.

    That’s why understanding the AI transparency dilemma is so important. Whether you’re a manager rolling out new technology or an artist deciding whether to credit AI in your portfolio, the stakes are rising.

    What still isn’t known

    It’s unclear whether this transparency penalty will fade over time. As AI becomes more widespread – and potentially more reliable – disclosing its use may eventually seem less suspect.

    There’s also no consensus on how organizations should handle AI disclosure. One option is to make transparency completely voluntary, which leaves the decision to disclose to the individual. Another is a mandatory disclosure policy across the board. Our research suggests that the threat of being exposed by a third party can motivate compliance if the policy is stringently enforced through tools such as AI detectors.

    A third approach is cultural: building a workplace where AI use is seen as normal, accepted and legitimate. We think this kind of environment could soften the trust penalty and support both transparency and credibility.

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

    Oliver Schilke received funding from the National Science Foundation (Award #1943688).

    Martin Reimann receives funding from the National Endowment for the Arts research grant (#1925643–38-24) and a National Security Systems (TRIF NSS) research grant.

    – ref. Being honest about using AI at work makes people trust you less, research finds – https://theconversation.com/being-honest-about-using-ai-at-work-makes-people-trust-you-less-research-finds-253590

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the US can mine its own critical minerals − without digging new holes

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Yuanzhi Tang, Professor of Biogeochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology

    Piles of rare earth oxides praseodymium, cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, samarium and gadolinium. Peggy Greb/USDA-ARS

    Every time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals.

    These materials are the tiny building blocks powering modern life. From lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite in batteries to gallium in telecommunication systems that enable constant connectivity, critical minerals act as the essential vitamins of modern technology: small in volume but vital to function.

    Yet the U.S. depends heavily on imports for most critical materials. In 2024 the U.S. imported 80% of rare earth elements it used, 100% of gallium and natural graphite, and 48% to 76% of lithium, nickel and cobalt, to name a few.

    Rising global demand, high import dependency and growing geopolitical tensions have made critical mineral supply an increasing national security concern − and one of the most urgent supply chain challenges of our time.

    That raises a question: Could the U.S. mine and process more critical minerals at home?

    As a geochemist who leads Georgia Tech’s Center for Critical Mineral Solutions and an engineer focused on energy innovation, we have been exploring the options and barriers for U.S. critical mineral production.

    What’s stopping critical minerals from being produced domestically?

    Let’s take a look at rare earth elements.

    These elements are essential to modern technology, electric vehicles, energy systems and military applications. For example, neodymium is critical for making the strong magnets used in computer hard discs, lasers and wind turbines. Gadolinium is vital for MRI machines, while samarium and cerium play key roles in nuclear reactors and energy systems such as solar and wind power.

    Despite their name, rare earth elements are actually not rare. Their concentrations in the Earth’s crust are comparable to more commonly mined metals such as zinc and copper.

    However, rare earth elements do not often occur in easily accessible, economically viable mineral forms or high-grade deposits. As a result, identifying resources with sufficiently high concentration and large volume is crucial for enabling their economic production.

    MP Materials’ Mountain Pass Rare Earth Mine and Processing Facility is in California near the Nevada border.
    Tmy350/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    The U.S. currently has only two domestic rare earth mining locations: Georgia and California.

    In southeast Georgia, rare earths are being produced as a byproduct of heavy mineral sand mining, but the produced rare earth concentrates are shipped out of state and then abroad for refining into the materials used in renewable energy technologies and permanent magnets.

    The other location is in Mountain Pass, California, where hard rock mining extracts a rare earth carbonate mineral called bastnaesite. Yet again, much of the material is sent abroad for refining. As a result, the entire supply chain − from mining to final use in products − stretches across continents.


    U.S. Geological Survey

    Meeting the U.S. demand for rare earth elements and other critical minerals from operations within the United States will require more than just opening new mines. It will require developing and scaling up new technologies, as well as building processing operations.

    Historically, processing has largely taken place overseas because of the environmental impacts, energy demand and regulatory constraints.

    The potential, but long road, to new mines

    Investment in exploration activity for critical minerals is rapidly increasing across the U.S.

    In 2017 the U.S. Geological Survey launched the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative − known as Earth MRI − to identify potential sources of critical minerals within the country.

    Some areas that appear promising for rare earth elements have lots of chemical weathering, in which rocks containing rare earth elements are broken down by reacting with water and air. Exploration is underway at several of these sites, including in locations in Wyoming and Montana.

    A map shows focus areas for 23 mineral systems that could have critical mineral resources.
    USGS

    Identifying a resource, however, is not the same as producing it.

    Traditional mining can take a decade or two from exploration to production and up to 29 years in the U.S., the second-longest timeline in the world. Although this timeline could be changing under the current administration, companies might still face major uncertainties related to permitting, infrastructure development and, in some places, community opposition. Managing environmental impacts, such as air and water pollution and high water consumption and energy use, can further increase cost and extend project timelines.

    Given that the exploration projects mentioned above are still in early stage, the U.S. needs additional, parallel efforts that can bring resources to the market at an accelerated pace.

    Mining the materials we have already mined

    One of the fastest ways to increase U.S. rare earth production may not require digging new holes in the ground − but rather returning to old ones.

    The Atlantic coast region stands out on the Earth MRI map as a particularly promising area. What’s even better is that this region has already established extensive mining activities and mature infrastructure, which allows for much faster speed to market.

    Georgia has mineral sand deposits that are rich in titanium, zirconium, and rare earth elements. Titanium and zirconium − both used in aerospace, energy and medical applications − are already mined in Florida and Georgia. In southeast Georgia, rare earth elements found with these heavy mineral sands are already being recovered as rare earth concentrates.

    Kaolin mining near Macon, Ga.

    Kaolin, a white clay used in paper, paint and porcelain, has been mined in Georgia for over a century, and it can also contain rare earth elements. Georgia generates more than 8 million tons of kaolin annually, making it the leading U.S. producer and a large exporter. This also comes with millions of tons of mining and processing residues, or what’s known as tailings.

    Recent research studies suggest that there is significant potential for extracting rare earth elements in the tailings.

    The tailings are already mined and sitting on the surface. There is no need to drill or blast. That means existing infrastructure, faster timelines and lower costs and than new mining operations.

    Technological innovations, such as bioleaching, ligand-based extraction and separation and electrochemical separation, are now making mining these legacy wastes possible. New processing facilities could be built near existing kaolin or heavy mineral sand operations or former mine sites, bringing materials to market in a few years rather than decades.

    The future of waste mining

    This approach is part of a broader strategy known as “waste mining,” “urban mining” or “mining the anthropogenic cycle.”

    It involves the recovery of critical minerals from existing waste streams such as mine tailings, coal ash and industrial byproducts. It is also part of building a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled rather than discarded.

    The U.S. has the potential to catalyze new domestic supply chains for materials essential to national security and technology. Waste mining and recycling are critical pieces to ensure the long-term sustainability of these supply chains.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How the US can mine its own critical minerals − without digging new holes – https://theconversation.com/how-the-us-can-mine-its-own-critical-minerals-without-digging-new-holes-252609

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. LaMalfa Celebrates Passage of Resolution to Repeal Longfin Smelt Listing in the ESA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) announced the House passage of his Congressional Review Act resolution to repeal the Biden Administration’s listing of the longfin smelt as endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Once enacted into law, this resolution will halt the proposed designation of critical habitat for this fish species, as well as ensure California’s water remains available for those who need it most, families and farmers.

    “The Biden Administration and activist judges have used this listing as a political tool to block progress on California water policy,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “This listing is based on cherry picked scientific anecdotes and even Stanford’s Center for Water California Recourses Policy and Management questioned the science of the listing. It adds yet another layer of conflicting regulations that dump tens of millions of acre feet of water out to the Pacific Ocean, with farmers receiving only 40% to 50% of their promised federal and state water. Congress isn’t going to stand by while bureaucrats and environmental lawsuits continue to wreck the water system that feeds our farms, our families, and our economy. I’m glad to see the House take a stand and push back with real solutions that help us grow food, provide water, and keep our economy strong.”

    This designation, driven by litigation from an environmental group, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service during the Biden Administration threatens California’s water supply by imposing new restrictions on the Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project (SWP). This listing resulted in subsequent burdensome requirements imposed on the CVP that will divert even more water to the Pacific Ocean instead of supplying farms and families across the state. Under the Congressional Review Act, Congress can review and potentially block such regulations within a specific timeframe, and it drops the usual 60-vote requirement in the Senate for these resolutions.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission funding to environmental NGOs to condition the views of Members of the European Parliament – E-000357/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Operating grants, as those under the EU LIFE Programme[1], support the functioning of civil society organisations involved in the development and implementation of EU legislation.

    These grants are part of the LIFE Regulation[2], adopted by the co-legislators, and their management complies with the Financial Regulation[3].

    Operating grants are awarded competitively. Applicants submit proposals that include the description of their work programmes of activities in areas indicated in the LIFE Regulation.

    This work programme is annexed to the grant agreement. The work programme may mention, among other applicant’s activities, advocacy activities. The Commission does not prescribe the specific activities in the applicant’s work programmes.

    The Commission has not identified irregularities in operating grants under the LIFE programme. Nonetheless, agreements involving activities directed at EU institutions, even if they do not breach the legal framework, may entail a reputational risk for the EU.

    To mitigate these risks, the Commission has issued guidance[4] addressed to all Commission services, covering all spending programmes, clarifying which activities should not be mandated as a condition for EU financing.

    The Commission adheres to its transparency obligations. Article 38 of the Financial Regulation requires publishing information about EU fund recipients.

    Information about non-governmental organisations and amounts received under LIFE is published annually in the Financial Transparency System[5] and on the LIFE programme website[6].

    For funding in the field of migration, the Commission awards action grants, which are limited in scope and correspond to the eligible activities of the call document, which do not foresee lobbying activities. These grants are published on the Funding and Tenders Portal[7].

    • [1] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life_en ( EU’s funding instrument for the environment and climate action).
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32021R0783
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=OJ:L_202402509
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/common/guidance/guidance-funding-dev-impl-monit-enforce-of-eu-law_en.pdf
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/budget/financial-transparency-system/analysis.html ( The annual publications are based on Article 38 of the Financial Regulation whereby data on recipients is not disclosed for very low value contracts below EUR 15 000 and where disclosure risks threatening the rights and freedoms of the persons or entities).
    • [6] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/life/life-operating-grants_en
    • [7] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Overhauling the multiannual financial framework for 2028-2034: can the Commission guarantee that common agricultural policy funding won’t be cut to finance other priorities? – E-000692/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission adopted on 11 February 2025 the communication ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[1] (MFF), outlining the key policy and budgetary challenges that will shape the next long-term budget of the EU and setting a clear direction: a more focused, simpler and more impactful budget.  

    For the next MFF, Europe needs to square the circle: there cannot be an EU budget fit for the Union’s ambitions, the reimbursement of NextGenerationEU debt, and, at the same time, stable national contributions without new own resources. Choices need to be made.  

    As regards the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), building on the Vision for Agriculture and Food[2], a CAP that is fit for purpose must provide targeted support to farmers who need it most, promote positive environmental and social outcomes through rewards and incentives for ecosystem services, support the right enabling conditions for thriving rural areas, find the right balance between incentives, investments and regulations, and ensure that farmers have a fair and sufficient income.

    The Commission launched a public consultation inviting stakeholders and citizens to have their say on the future EU budget and the policies it should support[3]. The Commission invites for a broad dialogue to help prepare the proposal for the next MFF, which will be presented in July 2025.  

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/6d47acb4-9206-4d0f-8f9b-3b10cad7b1ed_en?filename=Communication%20on%20the%20road%20to%20the%20next%20MFF_en.pdf
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0075
    • [3] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy/cap-overview/main-initiatives-strategic-dialogue-future-eu-agriculture_en
    Last updated: 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Greece’s role in the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework – E-000883/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In line with the political guidelines of the President of the Commission[1], the recent Commission’s communication on ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’ (MFF)[2] underscores the need for a policy-based budget that is more focused, more impactful, and simpler to deliver on EU priorities.

    The next EU budget will include a strengthened cohesion and growth policy with regions at the centre and build on the commitment to defend a fair and sufficient income for farmers, with a common agricultural policy that finds the right balance between incentives, investments and regulation.

    This new approach for a modern EU budget should include a plan for each country with key reforms and investments, designed and implemented in partnership with national, regional, and local authorities.

    The next MFF should also continue to help address challenges related to managing migration, including effective protection of the EU external borders and comprehensive partnerships with countries of origin and transit.

    It should thus continue to support Member States to ensure they have the expertise, operational and financial capacity they need for the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum[3].

    In addition to the simplification measures proposed by the Commission to simplify EU rules for businesses, the recently adopted Clean Industrial Deal[4] will contribute to bringing climate and competitiveness under an overarching growth strategy.

    As regards the next MFF, a European Competitiveness Fund[5] should establish an investment capacity that will support strategic sectors and technologies critical to the EU competitiveness.

    It will ensure better use of EU’s budget to leverage further national, private and institutional financing, to the benefit of the entire single market, including small and medium-sized enterprises.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0046
    • [3] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/pact-migration-and-asylum_en
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0085
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0030

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Non-transparent allocation of funds to certain media outlets ahead of the 2024 European Parliament election – E-000724/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission did not run corporate communication campaigns in 2024 before the European elections. The communication efforts around the European elections were led by the European Parliament.

    In general, when running corporate communication campaigns about common European projects, such as REPowerEU or NextGenerationEU, the Commission may procure communication services, such as advertising space, through contracts and framework contracts awarded to agencies in line with the Financial Regulation[1].

    Such procurement of services is always done in full respect of the Financial Regulation and of applicable national rules for advertising.

    • [1] Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.
    Last updated: 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Environmental issues in the next multiannual financial framework and the future European Competitiveness Fund – E-000719/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission considers that tackling environmental issues and strengthening competitiveness deserve the highest attention. This is highlighted in the Mission Letters to the Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero and Clean Growth[1] and the Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy[2] by improving Europe’s natural capital, protecting the natural world, boosting the circular economy and ensuring water resilience are intrinsic parts of the EU priorities, from climate change, security, competitiveness or food security and sovereignty.

    As indicated in the Commission Communication on ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[3], further efforts are needed to achieve a true policy-based budget to ensure synergies between EU policies and the financial action of the EU. The next long-term budget should focus on objectives where EU action is mostly needed, including investment to support competitiveness and to achieve the EU’s climate and environmental goals.

    The planned European Competitiveness Fund[4] will offer strong support to innovative industries for sustainable investment and a one-stop-shop simplified access to EU funds. Moreover, the ambition of the Clean Industrial Deal is to make the EU the global leader on circular economy by 2030, and to use financing as a business driver.

    The ‘green toolbox’ designed to support green policies across the whole EU budget includes the ‘Do No Significant Harm’ principle, which all EU programmes must take into account, wherever relevant and possible, under the EU Financial Regulation[5].

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/about/organisation/college-commissioners/wopke-hoekstra_en
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/about/organisation/college-commissioners/jessika-roswall_en
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=celex:52025DC0046
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0030
    • [5] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202402509
    Last updated: 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Light Beer Expands into Florida with North Florida Sales Distribution Agreement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, TN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is proud to announce its newest distribution agreement with North Florida Sales (nfsinfo.com), a premier beverage distributor serving the Northeast Florida market. This collaboration and expansion into Florida is another bold step in American Rebel’s mission to bring high-quality, American-made beer to hardworking, freedom-loving patriots across the Sunshine State.

    “We believe in the American dream – hard work, perseverance, and celebrating the freedoms that make this country great,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “Partnering with North Florida Sales allows us to share that spirit with more people in Florida. Their commitment to excellence, combined with their deep-rooted relationships in the market, makes them the perfect ally in our mission to expand American Rebel’s presence nationwide.”

    Gentry Pelham, President and Owner of North Florida Sales, echoed that enthusiasm, stating: “North Florida Sales is extremely excited for the opportunity to partner up with American Rebel. We can’t wait to introduce this amazing product to the Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Lake City markets.”

    North Florida Sales has long been recognized for its dedication to delivering quality beverages while building lasting partnerships with retailers and consumers. With an extensive network and a passion for serving their communities, they will help bring American Rebel Light Beer to even more bars, restaurants, and stores across Florida.

    “We’re very excited to be expanding into Florda,” said American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. “American Rebel Beer sponsored the Scag Pro Superstar Shootout this past February at the Bradenton Motorsports Park and I’ve done television interviews in Tampa, West Palm Beach and Miami and performed in Florida several times. Look out Florida, America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer is coming. Florida is going to be a strong state for us and I couldn’t be more proud to get to work with the great team at North Florida Sales.”

    As American Rebel Beverage continues its rapid growth, the brand remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting patriotic values and celebrating the American spirit. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has earned loyal consumers across Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Indiana, Mississippi and now Florida – proving that there’s nothing more American than great beer and a good time.

    American Rebel Light is a proudly American-made premium domestic light lager, delivering a crisp, clean, and bold taste with a lighter feel. Crafted with all-natural ingredients and NO added sweeteners like corn or rice, it offers a refreshing balance of flavor with 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% ABV per 12 oz serving. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a tailgate, or a weekend at the racetrack, American Rebel Light is brewed for the bold, the free, and the proud.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its new distribution agremeent with North Florida Sales, follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer or on the web at americanrebelbeer.com.

    About American Rebel Light

    American Rebel Light isn’t just a beer – it’s a statement. A toast to freedom, a salute to hard-working Americans, and a bold declaration of our patriotic values. As America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

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

    About North Florida Sales

    North Florida Sales (NFS) is a locally owned and operated company and covers all or part of 11 counties in Florida. These counties include Duval, Nassau, St. John’s, Putnam, Clay, Bradford, Union, Baker, Columbia, Hamilton and Suwannee. Started in 1995, NFS strives to be a leader in sales and service in the beverage industry in Jacksonville and Lake City, FL. NFS’s mission is to provide the highest quality customer service on a consistent basis, while ensuring the availability of the freshest and cleanest product possible. For more information on North Florida Sales, go to nfsinfo.com.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

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

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    info@americanrebel.com
     ir@americanrebel.com

    Media Contact:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@PrecisionPR.co

    Forward-Looking Statements

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Free Psychic Reading Online by Chat [2025] Best Free Psychics for Accurate Readings!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In today’s fast-paced world, more people are turning to spiritual tools to gain clarity and direction. Whether you’re dealing with a relationship dilemma, career confusion, or life transitions, a free psychic reading online can offer valuable insight, all from the comfort of your home. Best of all, you can now connect instantly through free psychic chat with certified advisors and get accurate answers in real time.

    The-Psychic-Experts.com, a leading platform in reviewing free psychic services, has officially announced its 2025 rankings for the best free psychic reading platforms that are available online. 

    Discover your future with an accurate free psychic reading online and unlock answers through free psychic chat with gifted intuitive advisors!

    ⇒ Connect with the best free psychics for love, career, and more!

    What Is a Free Psychic Reading Online?

    A free psychic reading online allows you to connect with a psychic advisor over the internet—usually via chat, video, or email—without any upfront cost. Many reputable psychic platforms offer introductory sessions so that new users can experience the service without financial commitment.

    These sessions typically last 3 to 10 minutes and are ideal for asking simple questions or getting a feel for the psychic’s energy and accuracy.

    ⇒ Discover what’s ahead by connecting with the best free psychics online!

    What Is Free Psychic Chat?

    Free psychic chat is a live text-based communication feature that lets you speak directly with a psychic in real time. Unlike phone or video readings, chat is discreet, fast, and easy to use—perfect for users who prefer privacy or quick answers.

    Psychic chat platforms often include features such as:

    • Real-time typing and responses
    • Saved chat history for future reference
    • Ratings and reviews of each advisor
    • Topic filters (e.g., love, career, spiritual guidance)

    Enjoy a free psychic reading online and use free psychic chat to gain clarity, peace of mind, and guidance from experienced psychic experts.

    ⇒ Start s free psychic chat and find answers to your deepest questions!

    Main Benefits of Using Free Psychic Reading and Chat Services

    1. Convenience
     Access guidance 24/7 from anywhere in the world—no appointments needed.

    2. Privacy
     Chat-based readings allow you to stay anonymous while discussing personal matters.

    3. Clarity Before You Pay
     With a free psychic chat, you can evaluate the reader’s accuracy before committing to a paid session.

    4. Wide Range of Experts
     Choose from advisors specializing in tarot, astrology, mediumship, numerology, and more.

    ⇒ Chat with the best free psychics online and explore your future!

    How to Choose a Trustworthy Free Psychic Online

    Not all psychic platforms are equal. Here’s what to look for:

    • Verified Reviews: Read ratings and feedback from real users.
    • Free Intro Offers: Look for platforms that offer several free minutes.
    • Transparency: Check the advisor’s bio, specialties, and tools used.
    • Customer Support: Reliable platforms offer 24/7 assistance in case of technical issues.

    Top-rated psychic sites often include filters to help you choose a psychic by category (love, career, etc.), reading style (compassionate, direct), and tool (tarot, clairvoyance, etc.).

    ⇒ Ask a psychic your most urgent question free of charge!

    Best Times to Use Free Psychic Chat

    • When facing an urgent decision and needing fast clarity
    • After a breakup or during a relationship crisis
    • When changing jobs or considering a move
    • During emotional stress or uncertainty
    • For ongoing spiritual growth or guidance

    ⇒ Discover your future with a free psychic reading and real insight

    Psychic Experts: Your Go-To Resource for Free Psychic Readings in 2025

    Digital access is growing the demand for online services, and the same is true for psychic services. The psychic experts recognize that online users often get nervous when trying to choose between different psychic services, since all of them claim accuracy and authenticity. 

    This year’s “Best Free Psychic Reading Online for 2025” list was meticulously curated for this very reason. It is based on verified user feedback, psychic credentials, and ease of access. And it also particularly focuses on free psychic chat and ask a free psychic question services.

    So if you are looking for free psychic love readings, or simply want to know about your future via free psychic reading by date of birth and time, the-psychic-experts.com will help its users find authentic guidance in the world of psychics in an affordable way.

    ⇒ Receive a free psychic reading from experienced, trusted advisors!

    Why Free Psychic Readings Are on the Rise

    Free psychic readings have always been popular among those who know its worth. These are considered a spiritual outlet for people who have questions about the unknown or are in search of clarity. However, the online psychic popularity has made it easier than ever to ask a free psychic question online, from the comfort of your home. 

    So whether you are into clairvoyance, tarot, astrology, or mediumship, you can be guaranteed that these services are now available online. Most platforms now offer:

    • Free trial readings online
    • Online psychic chat sessions
    • Free psychic chat sessions online
    • One free psychic question before you pay for the full session
    • Free psychic reading by date of birth and time
    • Free psychic readings online with no credit card.

    This freedom for the user, that they are allowed to test out a service before paying in full, makes a free psychic reading the first step that introduces them to the mystical world.

    ⇒  Find peace and clarity through a free psychic reading with gifted advisors!

    Who Are These Readings For?

    Free psychic readings are for everyone. Anyone can benefit from the spiritual guidance, whether they are dealing with personal issues or professional performances.

    The beauty of free psychic readings online is how they cater to absolutely everyone, including;

    • Singles who are looking for love
    • Couples who are in a relationship struggle
    • Professionals who need guidance when stuck at career crossroads
    • Students who want to explore purpose in life and career direction
    • Grieving individuals who want to seek comfort and connection with passed away loved ones.

    Psychic readings can change the minds of anyone. Even skeptics admit that they walked away feeling much lighter, mind clearer, and more confident.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and receive spiritual guidance on love, career, or life direction.

    Benefits of Free Online Psychic Readings

    Free online psychic readings have many benefits. Because they are; a) free, and b) available online. 

    Unlike traditional in-person visits, the online psychic readings do not cost hundreds per hour. The online services offer access, affordability, and privacy. 

    Other key benefits include:

    Convenience

    Online psychic readings are convenient. The psychic expert steps in to offer its users complete convenience and authenticity. You can get a free psychic reading via online chat, and no credit card is required no matter if you accessing the online service from anywhere in the world.

    Variety of Readers

    Psychic reading isn’t just restricted to palm or tarot readings. With the psychic expert’s recommendations, you can access multiple psychic readers, from empaths and mediums to energy readers and clairvoyants.

    ⇒ Explore the best free psychic reading services trusted by thousands around the world!

    No Pressure

    The psychic experts ensure that their users feel completely at ease when availing any of the online services. You can first test the waters with a free psychic question, and then, if you feel a connection with the reader, you can continue at your own pace.

    How Free Psychic Reading Works

    Many free psychic services, such as the ones rated and reviewed by the psychic experts, follow a similar process:

    1. The user chooses their reader (based on profile, ratings, or specialization).
    2. Then, ask a free psychic question via chat or phone.
    3. Then receive a brief but insightful reading, which is enough to decide if they would like to go further.
    4. Then the reader offers an option to continue for a fee or end the session after the free portion.

    ⇒  Chat with the best free psychics today for answers, healing, and spiritual guidance!

    What Makes a Great Free Psychic Reading Site in 2025?

    The psychic experts don’t claim to be a great psychic reading website for no reason. There are many standards that it follows to ensure that the users are 100% satisfied with the services.

    The psychic experts vet their psychics via multi-step background and skill evaluations. The higher they score, the higher they are rated. Genuine reviews also help them identify the psychics who truly deliver versus those who just talk. Specializations, such as love psychics, energy healers, astrologers, and tarot experts, are all represented individually. And lastly, no credit card is required for the first reading. Users can simply get a free psychic reading online chat with no credit card, which reduces inconvenience and friction and increases trust in the psychic experts.

    Here are some of the most common psychic reading services at the-psychic-experts.com.

    Love Life On The Rocks? Try a Free Psychic Love Reading

    Many people arrive at the psychic experts, unsure about the idea whether their partner is “the one,” or sometimes they are dealing with a breakup, or wondering about future compatibility. Free psychic love readings offer a non-judgmental insight in these matters. 

    ⇒  Unlock love insights with a free psychic love reading from trusted advisors!

    Get Answers with Just a Name or Birth Date

    Some platforms on the psychic experts even offer free psychic readings by date of birth and time, or just your name and one question. These readings heavily lean on astrology or numerology, and they are also perfect for long-term clarity. However, it doesn’t always result in immediate answers.

    Free psychic readings by date of birth and time are best for:

    • Major life decisions
    • Birth chart readings
    • Career mapping
    • Family patterns
    • Generational healing.

    Many users come to the psychic experts with questions like:

    • “Will I find love this year?”
    • “Is my ex thinking about me?”
    • “Should I change careers now or should I wait?”
    • “What is blocking my happiness?”
    • “What’s my purpose in life?”

    … and so many other questions like these.

    ⇒ Start a free psychic chat and connect instantly with gifted advisors online!

    Common Questions Regarding Free Psychic Reading Online Chats

    Users of the psychic experts are as curious about the free psychic reading services as they are about their future. Here is a breakdown of some of the most commonly asked questions about free psychic reading online chats.

    1. What Happens During a Free Psychic Reading Online Chat?

    During free psychic readings via chat, readers offer complete discretion and instant access, which means that you can enter a live chat session with a psychic with your questions in mind, and enjoy a few free minutes to explore their commitment and connection before paying for their services.

    During a free psychic chat session:

    • You’ll be asked to provide your name and birth details (possibly).
    • The psychic will then begin tuning into your energy.
    • You can type your question in the chat box.
    • Responses come in real-time
    • However, you can always request clarification as needed.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and get quick, honest answers!

    2. Can You Trust a Free Psychic?

    Many people are skeptical about psychic readings. However, the skepticism stems from a lack of knowledge or misunderstanding. It is important to understand that not all psychic platforms operate with integrity. This is precisely why the psychic experts exist. They test, compare, and rank psychic services so that you don’t have to risk your time or emotions to fraudulent psychic readers.

    The readers at The-Psychic-Experts.com are;

    • Transparent: Clear about what is free and what isn’t.
    • Verified: Authentic user feedback verifies genuine profiles.
    • Screened: Vetted for experience and accuracy.
    • Guaranteed: Offer money-back or satisfaction guarantees.

    3. Can I Get a Free Psychic Love Reading?

    Yes, you can get a free psychic love reading.

    One of the most in-demand categories of online psychic reading services is free psychic love reading. Psychics in this field of specialization can offer:

    • Insights about your current relationship
    • Whether you should stay or move on
    • Energy readings and knowledge about your romantic compatibility
    • Predictions about any future romantic encounters

    Many users begin with a fun and free psychic love reading. Which then goes on to become regular clients due to the commitment, value, and exceptional knowledge they receive.

    ⇒ Start a free psychic love reading and understand your emotional journey!

    What to Expect During Your First Free Psychic Reading

    Your first free psychic reading (or online psychic reading) can be overwhelming, curious, and exciting. 

    People have claimed that during their first free psychic reading session, they had a million thoughts running through their minds. 

    Here’s something we need to tell you: A psychic reading goes extremely well when you’re well-prepared. It can feel like a thoughtful, soul-searching, heart-to-heart conversation. And it will surely leave you feeling much lighter, more self-aware, and in control of your life.

    To reduce your nervousness, here are all the things that you can expect from your first free psychic reading, no matter if it is in-person or online.

    ⇒ Free psychic chat available now with accurate, real-time responses!

    The Atmosphere and Energy

    Whether it’s in person, over the phone, or via chat, the ambiance matters. 

    Psychics usually begin by helping you feel comfortable. They will ask for your name and birthdate, and then begin with a short grounding ritual. 

    Some will also explain how this whole process works, whether it’s through tarot, clairvoyance, mediumship, or energy reading.

    Don’t worry. You’re not expected to say much at the beginning. Just be present for the reading and receptive to its knowledge. A cold reading is where the psychic has no prior info about you, and it can be especially powerful in validating the psychic’s skills. 

    You might even come to know things that seem oddly specific or feel extremely personal.

    What You Want to Hear

    A psychic will never tell you what you want to hear. Rather, they will tell you what is true and specific. Their role is not to hide the truth from you or to sugarcoat, but rather to convey messages or insights that they receive from the physical realm, even if those truths are difficult. 

    No, that doesn’t mean they’ll predict doom for you. Reputable psychics mostly focus on the good things, such as healing. They may gently guide you toward an uncomfortable realization or a hard truth, but they will also provide guidance and strength to face it.

    Psychics can also confirm things you’ve felt but couldn’t articulate. This spiritual validation can be life-changing and is one of the reasons why people go to psychics for readings.

    ⇒ Chat live with the best free psychics and ask anything you want!

    Different Types of Free Psychic Readings: Which One Is Right for You?

    There are different styles of psychic readings, and no two of them work the same way. Choosing the right type of reading depends on what you’re seeking.

    1. Tarot Card Reading

    Tarot is one of the most common reading tools that psychics use. Here is what happens in this reading; the deck is filled with symbolic cards that look into your subconscious and spiritual energy. Then, a tarot reader will use spreads like the Celtic Cross or Three-Card Spread to gain even more insight into questions like love, finances, or your life’s purpose.

    Tarot reading is less about “fortune-telling” and more about identifying patterns and paths towards which your life is headed.

    2. Love Readings

    Love readings focus on love, and specifically on matters of the heart. These could be romantic relationships, soul mates, and breakups, etc. During love readings, users sometimes want to know if their current partner is “the one,” or whether their ex still have feelings for them, or what hurdles are preventing them from finding love.

    A love psychic will look into the energy between two people and read patterns even if one of them isn’t physically present. You can also avail of love reading services online for free at the-psychic-experts.com.

    ⇒ Get a love-focused free psychic reading and make better choices

    3. Mediumship

    Mediumship is another type of psychic reading in which mediums connect with spirits. 

    For example, if a person or an online user has lost a loved one and is looking for closure or a sign from the other side, a medium will help them bridge that gap. They can convey messages from the other side and thus bring peace, closure, or comfort to their client.

    Not all psychics are mediums. And many of them claim to be mediums but are actually not. So make sure that you are choosing someone with this specific gift if that’s your goal.

    4. Past Life Readings

    Many people feel a strong connection to a place, era, or person. This is where past life readings come into play. A past life psychic reading delves into the idea that our souls may have lived multiple times before and that past experiences resurface to influence us today.

    These psychic readings can be insightful for the curious mind. Especially if a person is struggling with repetitive patterns, or unexplainable fears, or deep soul connections.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question now and explore new possibilities

    5. Dream Interpretation

    Dream interpretation is also an important psychic reading, as dreams and nightmares often plague the sleep of people. Psychics believe that dreams are the soul’s way of processing information from both this world and beyond it. 

    These psychics can decode the symbolic language of dreams and thus reveal hidden messages, suppressed emotions, or spiritual messages.

    What NOT to Do During a Free Psychic Reading

    Free psychic readings are meant to be emotional and even life-changing. But it has rules, and there are things that you should not do. If you don’t show up with the right mindset, the readings will not go well. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a skeptic or a believer; your energy and behavior matter a lot during a reading.

    So, before you hop on a call, book a one-on-one session, or choose a free online psychic reading via chat, here are a few common mistakes that you should avoid if you don’t want to disturb your psychic reading session.

    ⇒ Try a free psychic reading and see what’s coming next in life!

    1. Forgetting To Skip the Recording

    If you think that you’ll remember everything a psychic tells you, then you are wrong. Especially if it’s an emotional session. Psychic readings can often involve many insights, revelations, and moments that can leave you stunned or distracted. 

    This is why it’s not only smart but also very important to record your session. Whether you are taking a psychic reading on your phone, a chat, or during a physical session, keep a voice recorder or even handwritten notes to record everything.

    Most professional psychics allow recording (in fact, many encourage it). Recordings will give you the chance to revisit the reading with a fresh mindset. You might catch details that you didn’t fully accept the first time, or connect dots, or a message with something you later discover to be true. 

    However, always ask for permission from your psychic before recording. It’s respectful and sets up mutual trust between both parties.

    ⇒ Get Clarity Now – Ask a Free Psychic Question Instantly!

    2. Don’t Try to “Trick” the Psychic

    People who come to psychics with a skeptical mindset try to test the psychic by feeding them false information, or they also try to withhold details just to “see what they say.” 

    While it’s natural to be on guard and feel cautious, especially when the reading is free, at least don’t try to outsmart or mislead a psychic for the following reasons.

    First, you’re not giving an authentic energy to begin with. They cannot read that. Most psychics work in collaboration with your energy field, and not just guess facts about your life. So, if you block that energy, the session will become confusing for both of you. 

    Second, some mediums work with spiritual guides or spirits. And they will definitely call you out. Which will lead to disagreement between the reader and the client. 

    And lastly, it’s just a waste of time. If you’re going to lie during a reading, then don’t go. Only honesty leads to clarity in this case.

    ⇒  Start your free psychic reading today and receive instant clarity!

    3. Don’t Show Up Under the Influence

    It doesn’t matter if you’re feeling nervous or just got back from a happy hour; showing up intoxicated to a psychic reading is not the right way to do this. 

    Alcohol or drugs will alter your emotional and energetic state, and thus, make it extremely hard for a psychic to read your energies and spiritual connections easily. But that’s not all. It will also affect your ability to focus, you will have difficulty remembering details, and won’t be able to respond to the information that is being shared by the reader.

    Plus, some psychics will even outright refuse to read a person who seems to be inebriated. Which makes sense, because it’s unprofessional and it can derail the whole experience of psychic reading.

    4. Don’t Dictate the Session

    If you’ve booked a free psychic reading to figure out your love life or professional career, then you will have questions and intentions. However, always keep in mind that you should never micromanage the psychic reader or their session, or refuse to accept or shut down anything that doesn’t fit your opinions and beliefs.

    Psychics receive messages or impressions all the time, and they go beyond the specific issue that you walked in with. Sometimes, these are the very unexpected messages that can prove to be more relevant or urgent than the task at hand. So if you try to dictate the reading into one topic, you will definitely miss out on important guidance that your intuition, a spiritual source, or the reader is trying to deliver.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and receive support from real, compassionate advisors!

    5. Don’t Do a Group Reading If You Want It to Be All About You

    Group readings are the perfect way to destroy your personal reading. 

    Yes, bringing a friend along for moral support is good, but not during a psychic reading. It is something you must do alone. Group readings shift the focus away from you, because someone else’s energy or spirit connection can be stronger in the moment or interfere with yours. Psychics can’t control, most of the time, which messages come through the loudest. Which is why your friend might get all the answers, while yours go unnoticed.

    If your goal is to get personal clarity or closure with a psychic reader, book a solo reading. In this way, the psychic will concentrate fully on your energy and concerns rather than someone else’s. 

    ⇒  Get the answers you seek through free psychic chat and real insights!

    6. Don’t Be Rude, Late, or Distracted

    All of these things are against professionalism. Basic manners apply in the psychic world too, because a reading is a professional service, even if it’s free. It should be approached with the same level of respect that you’d give to any other personal appointment. Which is why;

    • Show up on time 
    • Give a heads-up if you’re running late
    • Silence your phone
    • Only record with permission 
    • Don’t argue about prices, even if you are just there for a free intro session
    • Treat the psychic with respect.

    When you show respect and gratitude, you will receive it too, as well as have a mutually positive experience. 

    ⇒ Find the best free psychics here and choose from top-rated advisors!

    7. Don’t Expect Exact Timelines or Life-Altering Predictions

    One major misconception about psychic readings is that they will change your life dramatically, or work like a crystal-clear map. In reality, readings are fluid, symbolic, and most often, open to interpretation. 

    The predictions that psychics will make might also be metaphorical. Other predications may play out over months or even years. All this is to tell you that psychic insights are not guaranteed; they’re more like nudges.

    This is why you should not demand guaranteed answers from psychics. They cannot tell you the exact date you will get married or win the lottery. That’s not how it works. Instead, stay open to the signs that emerge and reflect throughout your journey.

    8. Don’t Get Hung Up on One Thing You Don’t Like

    If the psychic says something that you don’t like or feel uncomfortable with, it’s fine to question it. However, what you must not do is dismiss the entire session based on one detail you hung up on and didn’t like. Sometimes, the messages that these psychic readers will tell you will take time to make sense. And in some cases, uncomfortable truths will also be revealed, because they are exactly what you need to hear.

    A good psychic will never hide things from you, but they also won’t send you into misery and disappointment. If you find yourself resisting one specific point, think about it, take a deep breath, and reflect later. 

    ⇒ Ask a psychic question for free and receive guidance instantly!

    9. Don’t Be Scared Or Nervous 

    The key to getting maximum clarity with psychics is to ask with confidence. 

    Psychics will perform readings that reflect innate human need, as they seek clarity without commitment, especially when it comes to deeply personal matters. 

    So, whether you’re asking about love, finances, health, or career, craft your question well, and you will see how it shapes the clarity and accuracy of the answer you receive.

    Be specific but open, and instead of asking “Will I be happy?” try asking, “What should I focus on to achieve happiness?” Similarly, avoid Yes/No questions, because open-ended questions will lead to even more comprehensive insights.

    Many psychics offer a free psychic reading by date of birth and time, which provides deeper astrological accuracy, but whatever you have in mind, have realistic expectations, because psychics only guide, and not dictate, your destiny.

    ⇒ Start a real-time free psychic live chat and gain valuable perspective!

    10. How to Choose the Right Psychic for You

    Finding the right psychic reader is very easy, thanks to resourceful content present on the psychic experts, such as;

    • Star Ratings and Reviews: You must look for 4.5+ stars and feedback.
    • Specialty Tags: For example, love psychic, medium, or tarot expert. Their specialty must match your needs.
    • Intro Videos: A short video can help you “meet” your psychic before booking.
    • Trust Your Gut: if a psychic’s tone or wording doesn’t match your vibe, move on.
    • Use the Free Minutes Wisely: Your trial time is precious. Don’t waste it with small talk. Move straight to your main question.

    11. How to Spot a Fake Psychic

    Unfortunately, not everyone in the psychic world is genuinely ethical. Many psychic readers aren’t even psychics – they take advantage of vulnerable people by making fake promises or forcing them to buy expensive add-ons (like curse removals). 

    Here are some red flags present in all fake psychics:

    • They guarantee 100% accuracy
    • They ask leading/fishing questions
    • They claim you’re cursed and ask for money to remove it
    • They pressure you into buying more sessions

    If you spot such a psychic, don’t believe a word they say. Instead, stick to reputable platforms, such as the psychic experts, with verified reviews and satisfied users.

    ⇒  Get started with a free psychic reading and explore your destiny today!

    Final Thoughts

    A free psychic reading can help you with matters of this world or the next, whether it is love life, career choices, or grief resolution. Platforms like the psychic experts allow users to safely explore spiritual wisdom without any risks, as there are trusted psychics, verified reviews, and no pressure to pay until you’re 100% satisfied.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are free psychic readings really free?

    Yes, many top-rated platforms, such as the-psychic-experts.com, may offer a few minutes free for your online psychic readings on chat or call. These minutes are enough to help you decide if the psychic is right for you.

    What is the best way to ask a psychic a question?

    Ask open-ended questions and be receptive to their guidance on love, career, and personal growth. The more detailed your question is, the better the reader will provide an answer.

    Can I get a free psychic reading by date of birth and time?

    Of course! Many psychic readers use date of birth and time as well as astrology as a tool to offer you insights about your life. Always provide correct birth information for accurate answers.

    Are free psychic readings online really accurate?

    Yes, they can be. The accuracy depends on the psychic’s skill and your openness. Free minutes are a great way to test an advisor’s style and abilities. The accuracy of free online psychic readings depends on the psychic’s ability and your willingness to cooperate and coordinate with them. Top-rated platforms like the-psychic-experts.com tend to feature the most genuine and insightful psychic readers for accurate readings.

    How long do free psychic chat sessions usually last?

    Most platforms offer between 3 and 10 free minutes. This is often enough to ask one or two questions and get a feel for the reader.

    Do I need a credit card for a free psychic chat?

    Some platforms do not require a credit card for the free portion, while others may request it for verification. Always read the terms before signing up.

    Can I ask anything during a free psychic reading online?

    Yes. You can ask about love, career, family, health, or spiritual paths. Just be mindful that time is limited during the free session.

    Is free psychic chat safe and confidential?

    Reputable platforms use secure technology and keep chats private. Be sure to choose a trusted site with good reviews and a clear privacy policy.

    Is a free psychic reading better via phone or chat?

    Honestly, it depends on your preference. If you want a psychic reading via chat, it will offer discretion, but on the other hand, phone readings offer verbal clarity and a better energy connection.

    Media Contact

    Company: The Psychic Experts

    Contact Person: Anthony C. Bedoya

    Email: support@the-psychic-experts.com

    Address: 1 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, USA

    URL: https://the-psychic-experts.com/

    Phone: +1 414-203-2598

    Content Accuracy Disclaimer
    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in this article. However, due to the dynamic nature of product formulations, promotions, and availability, details may change without notice. The publisher makes no warranties or representations as to the current completeness or accuracy of any content, including product claims, pricing, or ingredient lists.
    It is the responsibility of the reader to verify product information directly through the official website or manufacturer prior to making a purchasing decision. Any reliance placed on the information in this article is done strictly at your own risk.
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    All product reviews and descriptions reflect the author’s honest opinion based on available public data, user feedback, and scientific references at the time of writing. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence the objectivity or integrity of the content. However, readers are encouraged to independently verify product information and consult with healthcare professionals prior to purchase or use.
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Cambridge Growth Company have appointed Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and other technical experts to develop a growth strategy for Greater Cambridge

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    The Cambridge Growth Company have appointed Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and other technical experts to develop a growth strategy for Greater Cambridge

    The Cambridge Growth Company (CGC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and others to prepare a vision, supported by a robust evidence base that will underpin a long-term growth strategy for Greater Cambridge.

    Published on behalf of the Cambridge Growth Company

    CGC will work collaboratively with locally elected leaders and the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. It will also access support from a number of government departments where required, to pursue infrastructure-led growth.

    This appointment marks a significant step towards shaping a sustainable and strategic future for the Greater Cambridge region working in parallel with but extending over a longer period than the emerging Local Plan. The Local Plan is being developed by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service representing Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council.

    The development of the evidence base has commenced as a first step in defining a vision for the future of Greater Cambridge that is sustainable, inclusive and innovative. By drawing on insights into the knowledge economy, infrastructure, housing, employment, transport, and the natural environment, the evidence base will act as a foundation for identifying challenges and opportunities, policy development and a future spatial strategy. Key areas of focus will be overcoming transport congestion and water scarcity.

    CGC is based in the city and has already commenced recruitment for a number of additional executive roles within the company to build its capacity and expertise over the coming months. These roles will be advertised locally in coming weeks.

    Buro Happold – Integrated consulting engineers and advisors is a globally recognised consultancy specialising in strategic planning, economics, infrastructure, design, engineering, environment and sustainability and strategic advisory services. With a strong track record in delivering large-scale city strategies, new communities and urban transformation projects.

    Buro Happold leads the team to shape the evidence base, strategy and implementation plan. Their contributions will ensure that the evidence base is grounded in data-driven insights, technical analysis and best practices for sustainable growth.

    Roger Savage, Project Director said:

    We look forward to working with local partners on addressing the challenges of the area. In developing the evidence base for the Growth Company we will consider ways which planning for growth can deliver a quality of life dividend for existing and future communities through investment in the environment and infrastructure.

    Prior + Partners is an acclaimed urban planning, masterplanning and economic consultancy known for its role in shaping major urban regeneration and expansion projects. Their experience in spatial planning, placemaking, data analytics and policy advisory will be instrumental in aligning the evidence base with Greater Cambridge’s unique needs, ensuring that growth is managed effectively and equitably.

    They will be supported by a multidisciplinary team with technical expertise and local knowledge, including BNP Paribas Real Estate, CBA, LUC, Peter Studdert, Turner and Townsend and Womble, and Bond Dickinson.

    By partnering with these leading experts in urban strategy and infrastructure planning, the Cambridge Growth Company is laying the groundwork to help Greater Cambridge realise its full potential.

    For further information please refer to CGC’s new website – www.thecgc.org.uk.

    Note to editors

    Cambridge Growth Company

    The Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP appointed Peter Freeman to chair the Cambridge Growth Company in October 2024. The government then committed £10 million to the CGC at the 2024 Autumn Statement.

    The CGC’s mission is to support Greater Cambridge in the creation of a delivery programme to bring forward an ambitious vision for long term growth. This vision will maximise the potential for the benefit of the city and the UK through enabling further growth of Cambridge’s knowledge and innovation industries.

    The CGC, which is supported by an Advisory Council consisting of elected local leaders and a range of local experts, will work with local government to establish the best long-term business model to fund infrastructural improvements — water supplies, the transport network, education, health, and the natural environment, ensuring that as much as possible is delivered from the increase in the land value of the sites to be developed.

    The intention is that the CGC in its current form transitions into a growth and delivery vehicle that has the capacity and capability to take a long-term approach to delivery.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Meeting on the development of airfield and airport infrastructure

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The airfield is equipped with one of the best runways in Russia, which was put into operation in July 2011.

    The airport complex consists of two passenger terminals: for domestic and international flights, and separate terminals for domestic and international flights.

    Passenger traffic in 2024 amounted to more than 5 million passengers. The airport is developing dynamically, paying great attention to the modernization of the airport infrastructure. The capacity of the airport of JSC Mineralnye Vody International Airport today is 240 flights per day, on domestic flights – 1,650 people per hour, on international flights – 240 people per hour.

    The geography of flights from Mineralnye Vody includes about 70 destinations, of which more than 20 are foreign.

    The construction, reconstruction and technical re-equipment of the Mineralnye Vody International Airport have been ongoing since 2019. The deadlines are 2019–2028, and the work is carried out in three stages (Stage I – 2019, Stage II – 2023–2025, Stage III – 2026–2028).

    In 2019, the Mineralnye Vody International Airport underwent reconstruction of the airport complex, including the expansion of the arrival pavilions for domestic and international airlines with a built-in pavilion for those meeting them, including the technical re-equipment of the air checkpoint across the state border of Russia.

    As part of the reconstruction, two two-story buildings of the arrival pavilions for domestic and international airlines were combined; their total area was 8,577.7 sq. m. Two elevators for passengers with limited mobility, high-tech baggage systems, and two additional border passport control booths were installed.

    During the second stage in 2023–2025, a new domestic terminal with an area of 28,506 sq. m. will be built. The new terminal will increase the capacity to 3,120 passengers per hour (currently 1,050 passengers per hour), and the total annual volume will be over 5.2 million passengers (international and domestic airlines). The terminal will be equipped with modern high-tech passenger and baggage handling systems, including 28 check-in counters, 6 passport control points, 11 boarding gates, including 5 air bridges. It is planned to expand the station square with a parking lot, the first access line to the terminal and landscaping.

    At the moment, work on the installation of the roof, facade, engineering systems, and external engineering networks is in the final stages.

    Work is being carried out on finishing the premises, installing engineering and technological equipment, and improving the adjacent territory.

    Earthworks, work on the installation of reinforced concrete and metal structures, vertical transport, and external engineering infrastructure structures have been fully completed.

    Mikhail Mishustin held a meeting on the development of airfield and airport infrastructure

    From the transcript:

    M. Mishustin: Good afternoon, dear colleagues!

    The President set the task of modernizing the infrastructure of at least 75 airports across Russia by 2030. Today, as we open this terminal, we will discuss in detail how this task is being accomplished.

    Well-equipped, convenient air harbors are necessary to strengthen the connectivity of the territories of our large country, increase the availability of flights for citizens and, of course, develop the economy of the subjects of the Federation. Last year, the reconstruction of runways in Kemerovo and Tomsk was completed, seven airport complexes were opened, and since the beginning of this year, three new terminals have been put into operation in Novokuznetsk, Tyumen, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

    The government pays special attention to such issues. During previous working trips, I personally saw how the construction of the airport in Magadan was proceeding, and I familiarized myself with the plans in Khabarovsk, Novosibirsk, and Gorno-Altaisk.

    We have just inspected the new terminal of the international airport here in Mineralnye Vody. It will soon begin to welcome guests and will provide a modern level of comfort for both residents and guests of the region, which is very important given that in recent years the passenger flow of this air harbor has almost tripled. After all, domestic tourism is growing, people are increasingly choosing the North Caucasus for vacation. Both Mineralnye Vody and nearby cities such as Pyatigorsk, Yessentuki, Kislovodsk have historically been very popular destinations. And we need to make trips to such centers of attraction more convenient for tourists.

    Work is also continuing in other Russian regions, primarily within the framework of the new national project “Efficient Transport System”. It includes a separate federal project – “Development of the Support Network of Airfields”…

    To be continued…

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Banzai Secures Expanded Agreement with RBC Capital Markets for OpenReel Enterprise License

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, today announced it has expanded its agreement with RBC Capital Markets.

    As part of the expanded agreement, RBC Capital Markets’ Wealth Marketing Division will have an enterprise license for usage of OpenReel, Banzai’s leading digital video creation platform.

    “This agreement reinforces our strategy of expansion in the enterprise,” said Joe Davy, Founder and CEO of Banzai. “Having already been working with RBC Global Asset Management, this deal shows movement throughout the enterprise into the wealth marketing division, doubling our current engagement and validating our growth in the enterprise space. We are seeing solid traction in the financial sector, where the OpenReel Creator tool gives global financial firms the ability to offer standardized branded video with personalization at scale for their wealth managers, partners, and other stakeholders.”

    OpenReel empowers organizations to efficiently produce high-quality, branded video content at scale. Its platform enables users to remotely direct, record, edit, and collaborate on professional-grade video projects, significantly streamlining the production process and ensuring brand consistency. OpenReel serves a global enterprise client base, including industry leaders like Bristol Myers Squibb, Ingram Micro, DXC Technology, Insider Inc., and US Steel.

    About RBC Capital Markets

    The most significant corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, private equity firms, and governments around the globe recognize RBC Capital Markets as an innovative, trusted partner with an in-depth expertise in capital markets, banking, and finance. We are well-established in the largest, most mature capital markets across North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region, which collectively encompasses 80% of the global investment banking fee pool.

    RBC Capital Markets is part of a leading provider of financial services, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Founded in 1864, RBC is one of the largest banks in the world and the fifth largest in North America, as measured by market capitalization. With a strong capital base and consistent financial performance, RBC is among a small group of highly rated global banks. Learn more at rbccm.com.

    We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.

    About Banzai

    Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides AI-enabled marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers grow, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Customers who use Banzai’s product suite include Autodesk, Dell Technologies, New York Life, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, and ActiveCampaign, among thousands of others. Learn more at www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    BNZI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    Media
    Nancy Norton
    Chief Legal Officer, Banzai
    media@banzai.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sagtec Global Secures US$30 Million Revenue Pipeline Through Exclusive UAE Partnership, Accelerating Global Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sagtec Global Limited (NASDAQ: SAGT) (“Sagtec” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customizable software solutions, today announced its international growth strategy through the signing of a Master Dealership Agreement with SMD Tech – FZCO (“SMD Tech”), a premier technology distributor based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

    Under the terms of the agreement, SMD Tech is appointed as Sagtec’s exclusive master dealer for its flagship Speed+ Cloud-Based Smart Ordering System (“Speed+”) across Dubai with a firm commitment to purchase a minimum of 10,000 software licenses over the next five years. This translates into an expected revenue pipeline of no less than US$30 million, substantially enhancing Sagtec’s long-term recurring revenue visibility and global market penetration.

    Speed+, Sagtec’s cloud-native ordering platform, is purpose-built to transform operations in the retail and food & beverage (F&B) sectors – delivering seamless order processing, real-time analytics, and automated customer engagement. The platform’s relevance is further underscored by regional digital momentum. According to PwC Middle East, the UAE’s digital economy is projected to contribute over US$140 billion to gross domestic product (GDP) by 2031, driven by government-led innovation and enterprise digitalization. Dubai, in particularly, has emerged as a key innovation hub, fueled by substantial investments in cloud infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and smart city technologies.

    Supporting this backdrop, Statista forecasts the UAE’s F&B market will surpass US$37 billion by 2030, propelled by rising consumer expectations for digital convenience and operational efficiency. In parallel, Grand View Research projects the Middle East’s cloud-based point of sale (POS) market will grow at a 19% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2030, reaching approximately US$1 billion. These converging treads points to an urgent demand for integrated platforms like Speed+, which empower businesses to streamline ordering, enhance customer engagement, and scale operations efficiently, making this the ideal time for Sagtec’s market entry.

    “This agreement unlocks a predictable multi-year revenue stream and positions Sagtec as a key digital enabler in the Middle East’s F&B transformation. With Speed+ backed by SMD Tech’s local market expertise, we are not only capturing market share but laying the groundwork for long-term Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) dominance in the region,” said Kevin Ng, Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sagtec.

    About Sagtec Global Limited

    Sagtec is a leading provider of customizable software solutions, primarily serving the Food & Beverage (F&B) sector. The Company also offers software development, data management, and social media management to enhance operational efficiency across various industries. Additionally, Sagtec operates power-bank charging stations at 300 locations across Malaysia through its subsidiary, CL Technology (International) Sdn Bhd.

    For more information on the Company, please log on to https://www.sagtec-global.com/.

    About SMD Tech – FZCO

    SMD Tech – FZCO is a technology-focused enterprise based in the United Arab Emirates, specializing in digital infrastructure, IoT solutions, and enterprise transformation. With a mission to empower businesses through innovative software and hardware integration, SMD Tech delivers cutting-edge solutions tailored to the region’s fast-evolving digital ecosystem. The company is committed to driving operational excellence and future-ready growth for its clients.

    Contact Information:

    Sagtec Global Limited Contact:
    Ng Chen Lok
    Chairman, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: +6011-6217 3661
    Email: info@sagtec-global.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mark Carney in Washington: His visit with Trump kicks off high-wire politics in Canada

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University, Canada

    Prime Minister Mark Carney is headed to Washington, D.C., for a high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump as the American president continues his trade war and annexation threats against Canada.

    “We are meeting as heads of our government,” Carney said at a news conference late last week. “I am not pretending those discussions will be easy.”

    The White House visit comes just a week after Carney led the Liberals to their fourth consecutive election victory.

    It was a result that, at first blush, allowed each party to claim that it won, or at least that it did not totally lose. That sets up a Parliamentary session that will feature several interesting dynamics.

    The Conservatives under Pierre Poilievre won several more seats than in 2021 and their highest share of the national vote in decades, though Poilievre himself lost his seat.



    Read more:
    Canada’s Conservatives, with an assist from Donald Trump, are down — but they’re far from out

    The NDP under an outgoing Jagmeet Singh managed to hold onto the balance of power in the upcoming minority Parliament for a third consecutive time. Elizabeth May continues to represent the Green Party in the House of Commons. Yves-François Blanchet kept the Bloc Québécois relevant for voters in Québec.

    Even Justin Trudeau, no longer in politics, won — his legacy is not in the gutter due to a predicted Conservative majority win that never materialized once Carney replaced him.

    But in the coming weeks and months, the leaders and their parties face difficult circumstances that could turn them into losers — most importantly, how Carney manages the relationship with Trump.

    The role of Trump

    Carney and the Liberals capitalized on exceptional
    circumstances     driven by Donald Trump’s trade war and threats to make Canada the 51st state. Winning four consecutive elections is a rare feat for any political party in Canada.
    But Carney cannot count on fortune continuing to smile upon him. He must now manage a party within which he has little history and few favours to call in — a party that he has dragged from centre-left under Trudeau to centre-right.

    The new prime minister will have to rely on aides and advisers to a much greater extent than all former office-holders who had years or decades of experience in the political area, including the House of Commons. At the same time, he will have to demonstrate to Canadians that he is in charge and makes the final decisions.

    Invariably, there will be Liberal missteps in the weeks ahead: ethical lapses for some MPs, ministerial appointments that go awry and disappointment among those not appointed to cabinet. Because Carney has been prime minister for less than two months, the upcoming Speech from the Throne on May 27 — to be delivered by King Charles — that sets the government’s goals is shrouded in mystery.

    Beyond Ottawa, premiers from several different political parties — each with their own agenda — await Carney. South of the border, the unpredictable Trump, with his infuriating rhetoric and disruptive actions, is in office for another three-and-half-years.

    As a newcomer to politics elected on his first attempt to the country’s highest political office, Carney could have at least have one topic of conversation in common with Trump when they meet on Tuesday. Trump too was a political outsider who catapulted into office on his first attempt. The two may find some bond in their shared experience.

    The greatest danger for Carney is not from Trump’s rhetoric but from broader economic conditions. He ran for office on the promise of being able to manage economic turmoil. But politicians of any stripe have little control in a global economic slump or an all-out tariff war. If unemployment, inflation or the cost-of-living tick upward, Carney will quickly lose his lustre among many Canadians.

    The new Parliament

    For the Conservatives, Poilievre’s leadership will continue to weigh on the party in the weeks and months ahead. Losing his Ottawa seat weakens his claim to stay on as leader. He now needs to win a byelection in Alberta triggered by the resignation of Conservative MP Damien Kurek.

    The worst outcome for the party is years of infighting between those who support giving Poilievre one more chance and those who believe that 2025 is the best the party can do under his leadership.

    The best outcome is for Poilievre to become a bridge-builder within the party and to Conservatives across Canada, and to rebrand himself to be more palatable to Canadian voters. This will not be easy and he hasn’t shown much inclination to do so.

    The NDP’s Singh has already announced his resignation and accepted responsibility for the party electing only seven MPs. A period of soul-searching leading to a leadership contest has already started. The loss of seats, and returning to Ottawa with an interim leader, lessens the voice of the party in political discourse. If a new leader is elected who is not an MP, the party will be further hampered.

    The Greens remain in the House of Commons, but as a party of one. The jury continues is out on whether the party can exist without its leader, Elizabeth May, who has said she wouldn’t rule out joining Carney’s cabinet.

    Blanchet returns to Ottawa with fewer Bloc MPs and a murky mission. He had hoped that the Bloc would hold the balance of power once the votes were counted, but was foiled by the NDP. He has already faced criticism from his own supporters when he promised to collaborate with other parties in Ottawa to secure Canada’s economic future.

    Beginning with Carney’s handling of Trump this week, how skilfully each party, and leader, performs its distinct high-wire act in the next few months will determine the ultimate winners and losers. The show is about to begin.

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

    – ref. Mark Carney in Washington: His visit with Trump kicks off high-wire politics in Canada – https://theconversation.com/mark-carney-in-washington-his-visit-with-trump-kicks-off-high-wire-politics-in-canada-255675

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Max Lacey-Barnacle, Senior Research Fellow, Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex

    Kampan/Shutterstock

    Across the world, the transition to a green economy is under threat. Growing antipathy towards the costs of tackling climate change, stoked especially by right-wing populists, undermines ambitions to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

    In the UK, leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch recently described achieving net zero by 2050 as “impossible”, stating that it would bankrupt the country. Reform, a major rival to the right of Badenoch’s Conservative party want to scrap the UK’s net zero targets altogether.

    A new vision of net zero is urgently needed. To help fund the UK’s transition to a green economy, the UK government seeks to attract private investment from international corporations that are not based in the UK.

    The Indian company Tata Group is investing £4 billion in eletric vehicles (EVs) and battery production in the UK. Danish company Orsted has invested £15 billion in UK offshore windfarms in the last decade. French company EDF Energy has invested £4.5 billion in net zero technologies and infrastructure in the UK.

    This approach comes with considerable risks. Profits can be extracted out of local economies, which benefits the shareholders of international corporations, not UK businesses.

    Ownership can also change between private entities and move even further afield. Last year, Orsted sold stakes in four UK offshore wind farms to a Canadian investment company.

    UCL climate scientist Mark Maslin explains net zero.

    But there’s an alternative that directly strengthens the resilience of the UK’s economy. Community wealth building is a model of economic development that ensures any profits generated from new green industries is recirculated within the local economy.

    To make this happen, communities need support from so-called “anchor institutions”. These are large organisations that are “anchored” to their local economy and cannot relocate, because their ownership structure is tied to a particular location. Think universities, hospitals or local government institutions.

    Within this approach, anchor institutions procure goods and services from nearby suppliers, so they circulate money locally and strengthen regional supply chains.

    This concept originated over a decade ago in the US. It’s since been applied in Canada, Australia, Ireland and the Netherlands.

    For the past four years, I’ve been exploring how community wealth building is becoming embedded in the UK’s fast-growing green economy.

    UK anchors and the green economy

    In north-west England, Preston city council retained the procurement spend of anchor institutions located in Preston city to the tune of £112.3 million in 2020 – £74 million more than in 2012/13.

    In Oldham in northern England, the council supported the development of community-led energy plans in two neighbourhoods, Sholver and Westwood. The plans outlined what a decarbonised heat, electricity and transport system would look like for each area. The council launched a website to share energy efficiency advice. The council also helped to set up two local community energy projects.

    Oldham Community Power installed solar panels on five primary schools and a community building to reduce their energy bills. Saddleworth Community Hydro have used excess profits from the sale of renewable electricity in 2023 to fund £58,000 worth of local sustainability projects.

    Some local councils in the UK are adopting a community wealth building approach.
    witsarut sakorn/Shutterstock

    The council in Lewes in southern England have committed to using community wealth building to transition towards net zero. Hundreds of houses have been retrofitted to increase their energy efficiency, with retrofit contracts arranged with local companies. EVs are being used to collect food waste. New sustainable housing is being built by local tradespeople using locally sourced materials wherever possible.

    The Lewes Climate Hub hosts community events and green business workshops in a council-owned property. Procurement spend by local anchor institutions has also doubled from £5m in 2020 to £10m in 2024.

    In North Ayrshire, Scotland, two municipally owned solar PV farms on council-owned land have generated a £13 million budget surplus. This has been redirected towards addressing fuel poverty by making low-income homes more energy efficient. The council’s new green jobs fund has supported over £1.14 million of investment into 65 businesses to enable a range of sustainability related measures.

    Encouragingly, more plans to bring together community wealth building and net zero continue to emerge. In London, partnerships between anchor institutions and community energy organisations could be integral to developing 1,000 community energy projects across the capital by 2030.

    Successful scale-up of community wealth building will require strong leadership, political commitments and supporting strategies that align with the green economy. Already, some initiatives are beginning to generate wealth through the green economy and keeping it in local communities, rather than ownership and profits going to distant corporations.

    To counter a rising opposition to net zero in the UK, prioritising community-focused visions that revive local economies will be vital.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Max Lacey-Barnacle receives funding from The British Academy.

    – ref. How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies – https://theconversation.com/how-a-community-focused-vision-for-net-zero-can-revive-local-economies-252955

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arooj Rashid, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Nottingham Trent University

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    US president Donald Trump has a particular look. Sharp navy suits, overly long ties and crisp white shirts, always structured to command attention. It’s a power uniform rooted in a very traditional idea of masculine elegance. Trump wants it to look expensive, meticulously crafted, consistent, and entirely his own.

    Behind the populist slogans and “Buy American” rhetoric, this president has long embraced symbols of global luxury. While he’s worn American tailoring from Brooklyn’s Martin Greenfield – a craftsman who has dressed everyone from Barack Obama to Colin Powell – he has also been a longstanding customer of Brioni, an exclusive Italian brand of tailored clothing.

    So, while campaigning for American-made goods Trump has for years enjoyed the prestige of the “Made in Italy” tag, and the luxurious connotations it brings to menswear.

    But his trade policies have done the opposite for the global fashion industry. By threatening massive trade tariffs on countries like China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, he has potentially created chaos for both the industry and consumers.

    Traditionally, what’s known as “country of origin” has been represented by the “made in” label, a key branding tool that can shape consumer perceptions of product quality and other attributes. However, as globalisation has led to the outsourcing of design, materials and production, the definition has become increasingly complex.

    “Designed in” and “country of brand origin” have come to define prestigious product qualities, while country image is used to reflect perceptions of a nation and its products. For example, “designed in Italy” often evokes craftsmanship and luxury in fashion goods. Similarly, Germany has a historical reputation for excellence in producing cars. And “Japanese brand origin” is associated with cutting-edge technology and reliability, particularly in electronics and vehicles.

    Two decades ago, as production costs in the US and Europe mounted, clothing production moved to Asia. While China has remained an important supplier, trade tensions saw production move to countries including Vietnam, India and Bangladesh in the early mid-2010s. But with the threat of new tariffs on these countries, brands are scrambling again.

    This time they have far fewer alternatives. And for companies that rely on the storytelling behind where a garment is made, this isn’t just a supply chain headache. It’s an identity crisis.

    ‘Made in Italy’ – like Trump’s Brioni suits – conveys more than just the country of manufacture.
    Northfoto/Shutterstock

    In fashion, a garment’s origin is not merely a logistical detail – it’s part of its identity. Labels like “made in Italy”, “made in India” or “made in Bangladesh” carry different connotations. These could be luxury and craftsmanship – embroidery skills, for example – or affordability at scale.

    Over time, brands have cultivated these country associations as part of their marketing strategies, shaping consumer perception and trust. The result is a strategic decision for fashion companies, which must now consider cost and efficiency and how changing suppliers might affect their brand’s perceived values and identity.

    For example, brands like H&M and Levi Strauss & Co. have promoted their ethical sourcing in India or partnerships in Pakistan due to their expertise. But now they risk being taxed extensively. So what is the solution?

    The impact on consumers

    The growing risk of new trade rules and tariffs is making it harder for countries that supply fashion goods to stay competitive.

    First, brands must re-assess globalisation of the fashion industry and develop alternative supply chains. While a quick shift may be possible for simpler fashion products, relocating production for more complex or premium goods is usually a long-term investment. As a result, brands will be investigating country images that are perceived to be trusted and trustworthy as trading partners.

    But one unexpected outcome of these policies may be the return of European production and the emergence of “safe” sourcing locations in countries less exposed to trading restrictions. This could be Portugal and Romania for mid-market clothing, and Italy for high-end fashion goods. These would be more predictable and offer a globally recognised brand image.

    Heritage clothing brand Barbour still manufactures some of its lines in the UK.
    Robert Way/Shutterstock

    For some companies, shifting production to Italy will allow them to maintain product prestige while avoiding some of the eye-watering tariffs threatened for some Asian countries. Meanwhile others may look to move back to the UK because of its association with younger, niche markets.

    This won’t necessarily make clothing cheaper for consumers. It does though offer a level of reassurance, especially for higher-end or mid-market labels looking to preserve their image amid instability.

    Trump’s own affinity for Brioni reflects this implicit value. Though his public rhetoric prioritised American manufacturing, his choice of a luxury Italian tailor speaks to a broader truth: country image matters. And in fashion, it can be everything.

    The consequences of these trade policies are now visible across the fashion ecosystem. For example, American brands like Everlane and Pact are built around affordability and transparency. They rely on production in south or south-east Asia, and now face the challenge of rising costs.

    Larger companies will be rethinking pricing strategies, renegotiating contracts or halting expansion in regions hardest hit by tariffs.

    For consumers, this could mean higher prices and reduced variety. The label inside a garment now tells a more complex story – not only of where it was made but also of the political and economic forces shaping global trade.

    Even if these tariffs are eventually reduced or reversed, the disruption they have caused has already left a mark. They have redefined the meaning and importance of country-of-origin labels, exposed the fragility of global supply chains, and placed new pressure on brands to balance ethics, economics and image in a volatile environment. In fashion, where identity is crafted through fabric and narrative, the story behind the label has never mattered more.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains – https://theconversation.com/trump-likes-to-know-where-his-suits-come-from-his-tariffs-could-now-upend-the-worlds-fashion-supply-chains-255337

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The growing threat to U.S. democracy will literally cost lives

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Andrew C. Patterson, Assistant Professor of Sociology, MacEwan University

    According to a recent survey, most political scientists agree that President Donald Trump is turning the United States government into an autocracy, all too quickly.

    As political scholars Steven Levitsky and Lucan Way explain, a competitive-authoritarian country is one where elections are held and election results carry, but incumbents alter the game so as to tilt the odds of winning heavily in their favour. This effectively makes it an autocratic regime, with one person holding the lion’s share of power.

    Politicians tilt these odds by doing exactly the sorts of things Trump is doing. He is replacing civil servants with loyalists, and then repurposing the long-standing institutions they serve. This is so he can use those institutions for political gain — to punish dissenters and reward allies. All to support his staying in power.

    As just one recent example, Levistky and Way predicted in February that the Internal Revenue Service would become one of the many departments that Trump would weaponize. On April 15, Trump called for the IRS to revoke Harvard University’s tax-exempt status in response to the university’s refusal to acquiesce. Trump had previously withheld billions of dollars in grant funding.



    Read more:
    Harvard is suing the White House: here’s what Trump hopes to achieve by targeting universities

    Is there any case in which Trump has still acted in the service of the American public? Arguably, no, not by a long shot. Even the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post describes his first 100 days as a remarkable failure across multiple fronts.

    The headlines have been blistering, calling those first 100 days “horrifying” and “inept.” Nor is the American public impressed: most give his performance a grade of D or F, according to a recent poll.

    The biggest threat of all may be permanent damage to government institutions.

    Democracy and population health

    As research shows, these trends cannot possibly be good for the lives and livelihoods of American citizens. We have known for over a decade that the recruitment of civil servants based on their political affiliations or loyalties, rather than credentials, is a recipe for political corruption. Corruption, in turn, harms population health.

    My own recent study affirms these findings. It also concludes that the impact of civil service hiring on population health is surprisingly direct. All of this suggests more corruption and worse health as Trump tightens his control over the civil service.

    Democracy, too, matters for population health. In another study, we found that democracies have as much as 11 years of added life expectancy, and 75 per cent lower rates of infant mortality, compared to autocratic countries. For someone focused on cross-national differences in health, these were huge differences.

    Economic impacts

    Trump’s actions will soon affect American wallets as well if they haven’t already, as research on both civil service hiring and democratization would suggest.

    It’s not difficult to demonstrate the threat, which continues to evolve in real time. Tourism in the U.S. has taken a serious hit in recent weeks, with airline bookings from Canada down 70 per cent.



    Read more:
    Does cancelling a trip to the U.S. really send a political message, or is it just hurting local tourism?

    People from other countries first started boycotting American goods and services in response to Trump’s tariff campaign. In the meantime, Congress has done little to curtail the detainment of migrants without just cause, or their deportation to a Salvadorean mega-prison without due process. And now tourists are afraid to travel to the U.S.

    It is fair to say that both economic prosperity and population health require investment in the same government infrastructures that the Trump administration is now downsizing.

    Yet the damage does not stop at the border. Trump’s decisions will have ripple effects on global health. Programs focused on containing infectious disease in the developing world are bearing the brunt of huge cuts to USAID.

    Speed and volume

    Trump’s approach is not informed by any kind of economic expertise. He is shooting the American economy in both feet by waging a tariff war against other countries as he simultaneously decimates tourism and upends a low-cost workforce with his immigration policy.

    Americans who voted for him will not get the price control they were hoping for, with supply-chain disruptions coming quickly down the pipeline.

    Nor can Americans count on the court system to preserve democracy. This is for two reasons.

    First, Trump’s executive actions are happening far too quickly. He has had a record number of executive orders since taking office only three months ago. It may take months if not years for challenges to these decisions to work their way through courts.

    Second, courts will not necessarily rule on the side of democracy, as in the Supreme Court’s decision to assure legal immunity for Trump.

    None of this bodes well. According to one watchdog based in Sweden, the U.S. could lose its status as a democratic nation in just a few months — well before the midterm elections.

    CNN reports on President Trump’s statement that he doesn’t know if he needs to uphold the U.S. Constitution.

    Starting a movement

    All of this has one common denominator: Trump’s unhinged executive power. A decidedly meek U.S. Congress needs to wake from its stupor and constrain that power.

    But at the time of this writing, the House judiciary committee plans to slip provisions into a budget megabill that will grant Trump ever more sweeping power over regulations.

    One solution may be what we sociologists refer to as a social movement. This is where as many people as possible choose to act. Small interactions — like sharing an article with friends and family — can make a big difference, according to one prominent perspective in sociology.

    Other means are more direct, like joining a protest or writing to members of Congress. And then there are decisions about what not to do. Universities and law firms are encouraged not to participate in the fraying of American democracy by making a “deal” with the Trump administration.

    The take-home message is that the threat to American democracy is real and it is imminent. The impact on human health and well-being will be global. If the collapse of American democracy affects all of us, inside and outside of U.S. borders, then we can all agree to do something about it.

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

    – ref. The growing threat to U.S. democracy will literally cost lives – https://theconversation.com/the-growing-threat-to-u-s-democracy-will-literally-cost-lives-254170

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.00 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh only) on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and advances to directors, their relatives, and firms/concerns in which they are interested’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had sanctioned director related loans.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/268

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.00 lakh (Rupees Three Lakh only) on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Maintenance of Deposit Accounts – Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had levied penal charges for non-maintenance of minimum balance in savings bank account, without notifying the customers by SMS / email / letter, etc.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/267

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Placement of Deposits with Other Banks by Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had breached prudential inter-bank (gross) exposure limit.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/266

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹7.50 lakh (Rupees Seven Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Income Recognition, Asset Classification, Provisioning and Other Related Matters – UCBs’, ‘Co-operative Banks- Interest Rates on Deposits’, and specific directions issued by RBI under ‘Supervisory Action Framework (SAF)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had:

    1. regularised Non-Performing Accounts (NPAs) without repayment through genuine sources;

    2. opened certain savings deposit accounts in the name of ineligible entities; and

    3. offered higher interest rates on deposits than those offered by the State Bank of India, in non-adherence to directions under SAF.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/265

    MIL OSI Global Banks –