Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu Attended the Annual Dinner of ABSC

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    《Taiwan – Australia Economic Ties Field of Opportunity》
    Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu and Mrs Wu were pleased to join the annual dinner of Australian Business Summit Council (ABSC), and they appreciated the invitation by its President, Dr. Frank Alafaci.
    D.G. Wu received an honorary token at the ceremony to officially launch #EKONOMOS (Issue 6, 2025), in the article D.G. Wu contributed, he highlighted:
    1. Taiwan will strengthen national defence

    , improve economic security, enhance partnerships with democratic countries, and stablise the cross-strait leadership. Those “Four Pillars of Peace” are our action plan to maintain status quo. We adopt “Integrated Diplomacy” as our foreign policy, which encompasses Value Diplomacy, Alliance Diplomacy, and Economic Diplomacy.
    2. Taiwan, from its status of the world’s 22nd-largest economy and 16th-largest exporter, will due develop the Five Trusted Industry Sectors – namely, semiconductors, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, Artificial Intelligence (Al), and military. In the meanwhile, Taiwan will seek to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050., via investments on green energy and recycling technologies.
    3. Taiwan and Australia share a mutually complementary trade structure, with bilateral trade reaching US$23.4 billion in 2023. Australia is Taiwan’s 8th largest trading partner and biggest source of coal and iron ore imports. As Australia has had the experience of falling victim to China’s economic coercion, the challenges of risks followed by geopolitical instability makes Taiwan a valuable partner to Australia.
    4. Taiwan’s membership application to CPTPP deserves careful consideration and support. Taiwan is an indispensable partner in global supply chains and remains committed to collaborating with Australia and its partners to safeguard democracy, shared values, and the rules-based international order in the region. Taiwan is ready to pursue FTA negotiations with Australia. We urge Australia’s further support for Taiwan’s bid.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: iManage Insight+ Sets New Standard for Helping Corporate Legal Teams Leverage Internal Knowledge

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iManage, the company dedicated to Making Knowledge Work™, today announced that iManage Insight+ — a knowledge search and management solution native to the iManage Cloud ecosystem — is driving powerful results for an increasing number of corporate legal departments and legal operations teams, who are using it to maximize the value of their organization’s institutional knowledge and drive greater strategic value across the business.

    Whether it’s reducing workloads, responding more efficiently to internal client needs, or informing decisions with data, Insight+ helps corporate legal teams stay ahead of the curve in today’s fast-paced, data-driven environment.

    Knowledge Search & Management: Purpose-Built for Corporate Legal Teams
    Insight+ pairs generative (Gen) AI-powered search technology with an unparalleled knowledge management solution. Understanding the complexities of managing legal knowledge and the importance of seamless collaboration across departments, iManage designed Insight+ to integrate effortlessly into the workflows of all legal professionals. By providing a secure, centralized solution for knowledge access and decision-making in the iManage Cloud, Insight+ enables legal operations experts to deliver value-driven outcomes with greater agility and confidence.

    By democratizing and accelerating knowledge submission, discovery, and maintenance, Insight+ delivers tangible benefits to organizations that may be under-utilizing their most critical but often fragmented data.

    With Insight+, legal operations can consolidate a repository of their team’s most valuable work and apply a search model that delivers intuitive, accurate results. Many recognized Gen AI tools are powered by the same search technology, a combination of keyword, semantic, and vector search. This enhances legal team responsiveness to common queries from across the business, improving interdepartmental service and reducing time-consuming back and forth. It also helps maintain consistent language across departments, supporting compliance, brand, and legal standards while enabling cross-departmental alignment.

    By collecting and organizing the team’s knowledge into a search-friendly format, Insight+ provides secure grounding for the adoption of third-party Gen AI tools, which depend on high quality data to generate accurate and valuable outputs.

    In fact, many third-party Gen AI tools require organizations to collect knowledge to train the model to begin with. By keeping these documents within the iManage platform and Insight+, organizations can maintain security and compliance standards while maximizing the value of their existing investment in iManage.

    “iManage Insight+ builds on the high-quality data within iManage Work to enable smarter workflows, transforming how legal departments operate and adding greater efficiency, compliance, and strategic value across the business,” said Paul Walker, Global Solutions Director at iManage. “Whether it’s business leaders seeking fast access to legal insights, or legal operations professionals who want efficient workflows that promote easy sharing of valuable knowledge, Insight+ provides an ideal solution to help them deliver the better outcomes they seek.”

    Join Us at CLOC
    Legal operations is a fast-moving and evolving discipline, and iManage is the ideal partner to support legal operations professionals with smarter document and knowledge management — especially as they prepare for AI. Visit us at booth #220 at CLOC in Las Vegas to explore how our latest innovations, including Ask iManage, AI Enrichment, and Ask Knowledge, can help your team work smarter, faster, and safer. See firsthand how these AI capabilities will transform the way corporate legal teams operate, driving greater efficiency and insight.

    About iManage
    iManage is dedicated to Making Knowledge Work™. Our cloud-native platform is at the center of the knowledge economy, enabling every organization to work more productively, collaboratively, and securely. Built on more than 20 years of industry experience, iManage helps leading organizations manage documents and emails more efficiently, protect vital information assets, and leverage knowledge to drive better business outcomes. As your strategic business partner, we employ our award-winning AI-enabled technology, an extensive partner ecosystem, and a customer-centric approach to provide support and guidance you can trust to make knowledge work for you. iManage is relied on by more than one million professionals at 4,000 organizations around the world. Visit www.imanage.com to learn more.

    Follow iManage via:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/imanage
    X: https://x.com/imanageinc
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iManage 

    Press contact:
    Alicia Saragosa, iManage
    press@imanage.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Welcomes Karl Cheong to Spearhead ETF Strategy and Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP, one of Canada’s leading independent investment managers, is pleased to announce the appointment of Karl Cheong, CFA, as Executive Vice President, Head of ETFs.

    Karl Cheong, CFA brings over 20 years of experience in designing and distributing innovative investment solutions. He held senior leadership roles at Claymore Investments (acquired by BlackRock) and First Trust, where he played a key role in launching and expanding their ETF businesses across Canada. Over his career, Karl has led the creation of several industry-first ETFs in Canada, and was one of the original working group members of the Canadian ETF Association, helping shape the foundation of the industry.

     “Joining Ninepoint partners is an opportunity to help establish the firm’s ETF platform as an innovation leader in the Canadian market,” said Karl Cheong. “I’ve dedicated my career to building meaningful, investor-first solutions, and Ninepoint’s entrepreneurial culture, alternatives platform, and broad distribution reach make it an ideal home to continue that mission.”

    “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Karl to Ninepoint. His strategic insight, industry relationships and leadership, will be instrumental as we expand our ETF platform and continue to innovate for Canadian investors,” commented James Fox, Co-CEO and Managing Partner at Ninepoint.

    With Karl’s appointment, Ninepoint is poised to accelerate the development of a differentiated ETF line-up focused on alternative income, yield strategies, real asset exposure, and other strategies designed to diversify investor’s portfolio and support their financial goals.

    About Ninepoint Partners LP

    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit ninepoint.com or please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    Media Inquiries:
    Longacre Square Partners
    Kate Sylvester / Liz Shoemaker
    ninepoint@longacresquare.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sherpa.sh Launches Affordable React App Deployment Platform, Disrupting Industry Pricing Models

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tampa, FL , May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a bold challenge to established deployment providers, Sherpa.sh today officially launched its innovative React deployment platform that reduces costs by 80% compared to market leaders. The bootstrapped Tampa-based startup has developed proprietary server infrastructure to deliver enterprise-grade performance while dramatically undercutting competitors’ prices, potentially enabling thousands of previously cost-prohibited software projects to reach the market.  Specifically designed for full stack JavaScript developers deploying Next.js, React, and other full stack React frameworks, the platform represents a significant disruption to the current pricing structure dominated by venture-funded silicon valley based platforms.

    Sherpa.sh: Deploy apps. Pay less. Build more.

    Sherpa.sh’s platform provides full stack JavaScript developers with a comprehensive solution to deploy Next.js app and React applications that eliminates the traditional cost barriers associated with bringing sophisticated projects to market. By building on dedicated server infrastructure rather than relying on third-party cloud services, the company has created a sustainable model that passes substantial savings directly to developers.

    Key Features of the Sherpa.sh Platform:

    • Next.js & React-Optimized Pipeline: Push-to-deploy deployment process tailored specifically for modern React-based frameworks. No system admins or devops knowledge required. Developers can just focus on writing code.
    • Full Stack JavaScript Support: Seamless deployment for both frontend and backend JavaScript code utilizing modern CDN and auto-scaling architecture
    • Kubernetes-Powered Infrastructure: Enterprise-grade orchestration and auto scaling to tens of thousands of concurrent users without the DevOps complexity
    • Complete SDLC Environment: Full development lifecycle support from initial coding to production deployment
    • AI Application Optimization: Specialized configuration options for Vibe coders creating AI applications built with JavaScript frameworks

    Sherpa.sh was created to democratize app deployment for full stack JavaScript developers by removing the financial and technical barriers that prevent innovative React and Next.js applications from reaching users quickly,” said Zach Kazanski, founder of Sherpa.sh. “As a bootstrapped company, Sherpa.sh is focused entirely on delivering maximum savings without sacrificing performance.  We’re not cutting corners, we’re cutting out the middlemen and passing along the savings to developers.”

    The platform is particularly suited for JavaScript developers building AI applications who can now focus on core technology development without allocating significant resources to Kubernetes expertise, platform engineering, or DevOps operations. Sherpa.sh eliminates the need for specialized platform engineering knowledge while providing the reliability and scalability of Kubernetes for production React and Next.js applications.

    The company built its platform from the ground up with affordability as a core design principle for the JavaScript ecosystem. This approach has resulted in a platform that maintains enterprise-level DevOps practices and security while reducing costs by 80% compared to industry standards.

    “Full stack JavaScript developers deserve access to advanced DevOps capabilities typically seen in big-tech without the typical complexity and cost,” added Kazanski. “Sherpa.sh is transforming what developers should expect when they deploy React and Next.js apps.”

    Sherpa.sh is available immediately for full stack JavaScript developers through the company’s website. The platform offers a free-tier for developers to try out the platform as well as flexible pricing plans designed to scale with project needs, making enterprise-grade Nextjs and React deployment accessible to independent developers, startups, and established companies alike.

    For more information about Sherpa.sh and its JavaScript framework deployment platform, visit https://www.sherpa.sh.

    About sherpa.sh

    Sherpa.sh is a Tampa-based deployment platform that specializes in affordable solutions to deploy React apps and Next.js projects for full stack JavaScript developers. Founded as a bootstrapped alternative to venture-backed platforms, Sherpa.sh leverages its own proprietary dedicated server infrastructure to provide enterprise-grade deployment and app hosting at costs 80% lower than industry standards.

    Press inquiries

    sherpa.sh
    https://sherpa.sh
    Zach Kazanski
    zach@sherpa.sh
    (813)-389-3559
    340 W Ross Ave APT 121
    Tampa, FL, 33602

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: AssetMark Announces 2025 Practice Excellence Award Recipients

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CONCORD, Calif., May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AssetMark, a leading wealth management platform for financial advisors, today announced the recipients of its 2025 Practice Excellence Awards. These awards, now in their eighth year, recognize financial advisory firms that have made significant achievements in the areas of operational excellence and technology adoption at AssetMark.

    This year’s honorees are:

    2025 Operations Excellence Award – Accuracy of Submitted Client Requests
    Barrigan Nelson, Capital Financial Planners (Salem, OR)
    Scott Barber, Barber Financial (DuBois, PA)
    Christopher Tool, Advantage Investment Services, (Canyon Lake, CA)
    John McBride & Hayley Bowen​, Stewardship Wealth Advisors (Phoenix, AZ)

    2025 Digital Practice Award – Overall Adoption of AssetMark Digital Tools
    Marissa Nehlsen​​, Freedom Financial Group (Minot, ND)
    Eric Jensen​​, Foxton Financial (Littleton, CO)
    Eric Nagel​​, Midwest Legacy Group, LLC (Lisle, IL)
    Charlie Hirling, Brad Hirling, and Stephanie Ruello, Hirling Financial Group (Metairie, LA)

    2025 Green Planet Award – Adoption of eDelivery
    Derek Pilkington, Pilkington Financial​​ (Denver, CO)
    Jonathan Whitehouse, EastRise Wealth Management (Williston, VT)
    Bryan Schod​​, Lifetime Financial Growth, LLC. (Morgantown, WV)
    Mark Trice​, ClearVista Financial (Waco, TX)

    “It’s incredibly thrilling to honor these financial advisory firms for their adoption of AssetMark’s digital tools to transform traditionally manual middle- and back-office tasks,” said Carrie Hansen, EVP and COO of AssetMark. “Their enthusiastic embrace of technology has set a new standard, enabling advisors to handle client requests with unprecedented speed and precision, and freeing up invaluable time to focus wholeheartedly on serving their clients.”

    The Practice Excellence Awards were announced during the kick-off of AssetMark’s annual Customer Obsession Week, a week-long celebration starting today through May 9, 2025. “Customer Obsession Week is one of the most exciting times of the year for our company,” Hansen noted. “This is a time when we bring the entire AssetMark team together to celebrate our people, our amazing advisors, and the incredible work they do to support their clients’ hopes, dreams, and aspirations. By honoring these twelve award recipients for their outstanding achievements in operational excellence and technology adoption, we’re highlighting the critical importance for financial advisors of leveraging digital tools to enhance their client-focused culture and remain competitive.”

    The 2025 Practice Excellence Awards are issued by AssetMark and recognize financial advisory firms for embracing AssetMark technology to perform traditionally manual middle- and back-office functions. Award recipients were selected by a panel of senior leaders in AssetMark’s Operations and Service organization. Nominees were evaluated based on usage of our digital tools, accuracy, and volume of work. Third-party rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results.

    About AssetMark
    AssetMark operates a wealth management platform whose mission is to help financial advisors and their clients. AssetMark, together with its affiliates AssetMark Trust Company, Voyant, and Adhesion Wealth Advisor Solutions, serves advisors at every stage of their journey with flexible, purpose-built solutions that champion client engagement and drive efficiency. Its ecosystem of solutions equips advisors with services and capabilities to help deliver better investor outcomes by enhancing their productivity, profitability, and client satisfaction. 

    With a history going back to 1996, AssetMark has over 1,000 employees, and its platform serves over 10,700 financial advisors and over 317,000 investor households. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had over $139 billion in platform assets. AssetMark, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. For more information, please visit www.assetmark.com. Follow us on LinkedIn

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Best Payday Loans Online with No Credit Check Guaranteed Approval for Bad Credit 2025: Reviewed by RadCred

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Glandale, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RadCred, a trusted name in online financial solutions, is proud to announce the expansion of its offerings for the best online payday loans 2025, including $255 payday loans with no credit check and same-day approval. Individuals, especially those with bad credit, can easily access fast and reliable loan options by connecting borrowers with trusted lenders. 

    With an emphasis on transparency and flexibility, RadCred offers clear loan terms and personalized repayment plans for those seeking instant payday loans. Prioritizing speed and accessibility, it simplifies the instant payday loans online guaranteed approval process, allowing borrowers to receive the funds they need through 1 hour payday loans no credit check with same day loan approval all without unnecessary hurdles.

    Top Instant Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval – Reviewed

    Here’s a breakdown of the most trusted platforms offering instant payday loans online guaranteed approval with no credit checks, even if you have bad credit. These platforms provide $255 payday loans online same day, within a few minutes. 

    • Money Mutual: Get Fast $255 Payday Loans with Same Day Approval
    • CashUSA: Quick $500 Loans with No Credit Check for Your Emergency Needs
    • BadCreditLoans: Same Day Payday Loans for Bad Credit With Quick Approval
    • PersonalLoans: Connect Directly with Lenders for Flexible Payday Loans
    • Cash Advance: Instant 1 Hour Payday Loans with No Credit Check

    When facing financial emergencies, it’s crucial to turn to reputable payday loan platforms that offer small, fast, and the best online payday loans 2025 without relying on risky, high-interest lenders. Money Mutual is a trusted platform for securing $255 payday loans online same day and payday loans for bad credit same day approvals. With a simple online payday loan application process and fast approval, you can get small payday loans no credit check to manage urgent expenses quickly. 

    Unlike high-interest alternatives, online payday loan direct lenders like Money Mutual prioritizes affordability and transparency, ensuring smooth online payday loans no credit check instant approval. If you’re looking for a $500 payday loan online same day, Money Mutual provides payday loans for bad credit same day allowing you to access funds without hidden fees or complex terms.

    Click Here to Apply for Payday Loans for Bad Credit Same Day with No Credit Check

    Types of 1 Hour Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Instant Approval Alternatives

    When unexpected financial challenges arise, small payday loans no credit check are the perfect solution. Several emergency payday loans and fast cash loans are available that cater specifically to borrowers seeking $255 payday loans online same day. These options prioritize accessibility, speed, and ease of use, making them ideal for those in need of 1 hour payday loans online no credit check to cover urgent financial needs.

    Best Payday Loans for Bad Credit

    For borrowers with poor credit scores, payday loans for bad credit same day approval are a valuable solution. These best online payday loans 2025 offer minimal documentation requirements and prioritize income over credit history, making them accessible to those looking for online payday loan direct lenders.

    • Loan amounts range from $255 payday loans online same day to larger amounts, sometimes up to $5000, depending on the lender and the borrower’s income.
    • Payday loans for bad credit same day are designed to help with urgent expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs, and can be processed quickly. As online payday loans no credit check instant approval, they offer fast financial relief when time is critical.
    • Approval times for payday loans for bad credit same day can be nearly instantaneous, with funds often deposited within hours or by the next business day.

    Payday Loans for Self-Employed

    Self-employed individuals may find it challenging to qualify for traditional loans because of the lack of a consistent paycheck. Payday loans for self-employed individuals address this issue by evaluating the borrower’s bank activity or other non-traditional forms of income, and by providing 1 hour payday loans no credit check.

    • Approval is often based on bank account activity or other proof of income, such as recent invoices or contracts, making these payday loans for self-employed individuals especially accessible.
    • Interest rates may vary depending on the platform, but some online payday loan direct lenders offer no-interest $255 payday loans online same day, which is advantageous for self-employed borrowers.
    • Repayment terms for payday loans for self-employed are flexible, depending on the lender, and usually, repayments are expected on the borrower’s next payday, similar to traditional payday loans.

    Small Payday Loans No Credit Check

    For those in need of smaller amounts, small payday loans with no credit check are an excellent option. These $500 payday loans online same day, are designed for borrowers who only need a small sum of money to cover immediate or minor expenses such as urgent bills or small repairs.

    • Loan amounts generally start at $255 or $500, and these loans are often approved and disbursed within hours, making them ideal for emergency situations.
    • These payday loans for bad credit same day, typically require no credit check, focusing on the borrower’s income and employment status to determine eligibility.
    • Since $255 payday loans online same day are for small amounts, repayment terms are usually straightforward and completed within a short period, often by the borrower’s next payday.

    Online Payday Loan Direct Lenders

    Online payday loan direct lenders simplify the borrowing process by eliminating the middleman, which allows for quicker and more efficient loan processing. With online payday loans no credit check instant approval often enables borrowers to access funds more quickly and face fewer obstacles compared to dealing with traditional financial institutions.

    • Online payday loan direct lenders provide fast approval, often approving loans within minutes and disbursing funds within the same day or the next business day.
    • Direct lenders often offer a variety of loan amounts, from $500 payday loans online same day to larger loans for urgent financial needs.
    • Repayment terms vary by lender, but many offer flexible repayment schedules for small payday loans no credit check, making it easier for borrowers to manage repayments without being overwhelmed.

    Instant Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval

    For those in urgent need of funds, instant payday loans online guaranteed approval offer a reliable solution. These payday loans for bad credit same day, are typically designed for emergency situations where funds are needed as soon as possible, often within an hour of approval. 

    • The approval process is incredibly fast, often taking just minutes, with funds deposited into the borrower’s account within 1 hour or by the next business day.
    • 1 hour payday loans no credit check loan amounts can range from small sums of $255 payday loans online same day to larger amounts, depending on the borrower’s financial situation.
    • Repayment terms of the best online payday loans 2025 are typically short, and the loan is expected to be repaid by the borrower’s next payday.

    How to Apply for $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day No Credit Check

    Applying for a $255 payday loan online same day with no credit check is simple when you use reliable platforms like Money Mutual. Here’s a step-by-step guide to securing your payday loans for bad credit same day:

    1. Choose a Reliable Lending Platform

      Begin by selecting a platform known for connecting borrowers with trustworthy lenders, such as Money Mutual. They offer online payday loans no credit check instant approval, ensuring quick access to funds when needed most.
    2. Visit Their Website

      Head to the Money Mutual website, where you’ll find an easy-to-navigate interface. The process is designed to be quick, so you can apply for a $255 payday loan online the same day in just a few minutes.
    3. Fill Out the Online Application

      On the website, fill in basic details like your income, contact information, and banking details. This helps the platform match you with lenders offering instant payday loans online guaranteed approval, ensuring a fast and efficient process.
    4. Provide Verification Documents

      You may be asked for proof of income or identification. This step verifies your application so you can move it along quickly and get online payday loans no credit check instant approval.
    5. Get Immediate Feedback and Receive Funds

      Once you’ve submitted your application for $255 payday loans online same day, you’ll receive feedback within minutes. If approved, the funds will be deposited into your bank account, often the same day, making these small payday loans no credit check a reliable option for those in need of payday loans for bad credit same day, to handle urgent expenses.

    Factors To Consider in Selecting Online Payday Loan Lenders For Bad Credit

    When selecting an online payday loan direct lender for bad credit, it’s essential to evaluate several factors to ensure you’re dealing with a reliable and trustworthy platform. Here are six important pointers to consider before applying for $255 payday loans online same day:

    1. Reputation of the Lender

      Choose a lender with a proven track record. Trusted platforms, such as Money Mutual, are known for offering instant payday loans online guaranteed approval, making them a reliable choice for borrowers with bad credit. Always check for customer reviews and ratings before you apply for payday loans for bad credit same day.
    2. Loan Terms and Fees

      Review the small payday loans no credit check terms carefully, including interest rates, repayment schedules, and hidden fees. Reliable lenders offer transparent terms for $255 payday loans online same day or other amounts, ensuring that you’re not caught off guard by excessive charges.
    3. Approval Speed

      For urgent financial needs, the speed of approval matters. Look for lenders who offer 1 hour payday loans no credit check, ensuring that your funds are disbursed the same day or within hours of applying. This is crucial for those needing quick cash.
    4. Flexibility in Loan Amounts

      Lenders should offer flexibility, providing you with options for $500 payday loans online same day or smaller amounts. If you’re applying for a $255 payday loan online same day or a larger sum, ensure that the lender accommodates your specific needs.
    5. Customer Support

      A responsive customer service team can help you with any issues during the 1 hour payday loans no credit check application process. Choose lenders that provide clear guidance, especially if you’re applying for online payday loans no credit check instant approval, as this ensures the process runs smoothly and efficiently.
    6. Privacy and Security

      Protecting your personal information is vital. Look for lenders who prioritize data protection and use secure platforms. Trusted online payday loan direct lenders that offer small payday loans no credit check will invest in secure systems to keep your details safe.

    Are No Credit Check Payday Loans Safe?

    No credit check payday loans can be a viable option for those with bad credit, but safety depends on the lender and loan terms. Reputable lenders, such as Money Mutual, offer online payday loans no credit check instant approval with clear and transparent terms. However, it’s important to be cautious about high-interest rates and ensure you can repay the payday loans for bad credit same day on time.

    Small payday loans no credit check loans are often short-term, and if used responsibly, they can provide fast financial relief. It’s vital to borrow only the amount you need, such as $255 payday loans online same day, and avoid taking on more debt than you can handle.

    To ensure safety, always choose reliable online payday loan direct lenders that prioritize security, offer clear fees, and provide a straightforward process. Borrow responsibly, and payday loans for bad credit same day can be a safe solution for urgent needs.

    FAQs About No Credit Check Payday Loans

    Can I get approved without a credit check?
    Yes, no credit check payday loans are designed for individuals with poor credit. Lenders focus on your income, employment status, and ability to repay, instead of your credit score, making payday loans for self-employed individuals accessible to a wider range of borrowers.

    How are these loans different from traditional loans?
    No credit check payday loans offer fast, short-term funding without reviewing your credit history. Unlike traditional bank loans, $255 payday loans online same day, generally have higher interest rates but are approved more quickly, making them suitable for urgent financial needs.

    How quickly will I get the money?
    With online payday loans no credit check instant approval, funds are often transferred within the same day or just a few hours after approval. Depending on the lender, you can expect quick access to small payday loans no credit check amount when you need it most.

    Can I get $255 today?
    Yes, many lenders offer $255 payday loans online same day, providing quick approval and fast access to cash for emergency expenses. Payday loans for bad credit same day are typically available with instant approval and are designed for urgent financial needs.

    Apply For Online payday loan for Bad Credit with Radcred

    Finding the right online payday loans for bad credit can be challenging, but with options like instant payday loans online guaranteed approval, you can quickly access the funds you need. If you’re looking for $255 payday loans online same day, or payday loans for self-employed individuals, selecting a reliable platform is essential for a smooth and secure borrowing experience.

    RadCred, a reliable online payday loan solution provider that helps connect borrowers with reputable lenders offering instant payday loans online guaranteed approval, clear terms, fast service, and responsible lending. Always make sure you fully understand the payday loans for bad credit same day terms and borrow only what you can afford to repay. Using trusted resources like RadCred makes managing your financial needs easier while avoiding high-risk debt.

    Contact Data:
    Company Name: Radcred
    Company Address: 1146 N CENTRAL AVE UNIT 414 GLENDALE 91202 CA United States
    Company Email: connect@radcred.com 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: LPL Financial Launches WealthVision Essentials to Empower Advisors with Best-in-Class Financial Planning Software

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  LPL Financial LLC, a leading wealth management firm, is pleased to announce the launch of WealthVision Essentials, an integrated financial planning tool powered by eMoney. This new platform is designed to enhance the services of LPL’s financial advisors, whether independent or part of an institution like a bank or credit union, by providing them with easily accessible financial planning software and tools to support holistic financial guidance.

    In a recent study, 175 of LPL Financial’s top 10% of advisors said they use differentiated, comprehensive solutions that go beyond portfolio management to build, scale and grow their businesses. These top advisors are 53% more likely to offer estate planning, 41% more likely to offer tax planning and strategy, 28% more likely to offer retirement plan consulting, and 17% more likely to offer insurance. These additional services can help grow existing client assets under management (AUM) over time, as advisors are better equipped to provide advice as clients’ lives evolve and needs change.

    “We are seeing an increasing demand from clients for sophisticated planning solutions, particularly in the high-net-worth space, and a growing adoption of solutions to better manage volatility. That’s why we are committed to equipping every advisor with end-to-end planning solutions to better guide their clients. We are excited to introduce WealthVision Essentials as a core offering to help advisors integrate planning more seamlessly into their practice,” said Aneri Jambusaria, Group Managing Director of Wealth Management.

    WealthVision Essentials is a turnkey financial planning solution that includes:

    • Stand-Alone Planning Modules: These tools enable advisors to create basic financial plans quickly and efficiently for common client scenarios. Advisors can scale their financial planning offerings without adding additional internal resources or headcount. Customized financial plans can also help distinguish advisors from do-it-yourself and robo-advisor models that focus more on mass-market financial advice informed by national averages rather than a client’s unique life situation.
    • Interactive Client Portal: A collaborative platform facilitates seamless communication and engagement with clients, personalizing and enhancing the overall client experience.
    • Seamless Integration: Full integration with LPL’s advisor platform ClientWorks ensures smooth data sharing and workflow support, making the financial planning process more efficient and effective.

    All LPL financial advisors will have access to this advanced financial planning software at no additional cost. Advisors will be onboarded throughout Q2 2025.

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports nearly 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.7 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 6 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.

    Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    Media Contact: 
    Media.relations@LPLFinancial.com 
    (402) 740-2047 

    Tracking #: 733625

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Suzy Founder & CEO Matt Britton Launches Generation AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Suzy, the leading end‑to‑end consumer insights platform, today announced that its Founder and CEO, Matt Britton, will release his highly anticipated second book published by Wiley, Generation AI: Why Generation Alpha and The Age of AI Will Change Everything, on May 6, 2025.

    Building on the breakout success of his debut bestseller, YouthNation, Britton, entrepreneur, futurist, and renowned consumer trend authority, delivers a clear, actionable playbook for parents and professionals navigating the seismic shifts unleashed by artificial intelligence.

    “Artificial intelligence isn’t just another technology cycle – it’s the new operating system for humanity,” said Matt Britton. “With Generation AI, I want to equip leaders, parents, and anyone curious about the future with a practical blueprint to embrace AI’s boundless opportunities while ensuring we steer its impact toward a more equitable world.”

    What’s Inside Generation AI

    • Consumer Behavior – Hyper‑personalized shopping and the rise of the creator economy
    • Education – Reinventing learning from memory‑based curricula to creativity and problem‑solving
    • Work & Career – The new AI‑powered skill sets professionals need to stay indispensable
    • Mental Health & Relationships – How AI can both connect and isolate us—plus strategies for balance
    • Ethics & Privacy – Why strong governance is essential to protect equity and fairness

    Packed with data, real‑world case studies, and forward‑looking advice, Generation AI is an indispensable guide for Millennial parents raising the first AI‑native generation, as well as business leaders, educators, and anyone eager to future‑proof their careers.

    Book Launch & Availability

    Generation AI will be available everywhere books are sold starting May 6, 2025. Early readers can learn more and sign up for launch updates at GenerationAI.bot.

    About the Author

    Matt Britton is one of the world’s leading voices on the changing landscape of consumer behavior. As the Founder & CEO of Suzy, he helps Fortune 1000 brands harness real‑time insights to drive growth. His first book, YouthNation, reframed how marketers think about youth culture and remains a staple for brands seeking to connect with the new consumer. Britton’s expertise has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and CNBC.

    About Suzy
    Founded in 2018, Suzy is changing the way research gets done by integrating quantitative analysis, qualitative analysis, conversational research and high quality audiences into a single connected platform. Suzy enables teams to conduct iterative, efficient research with agency-quality rigor at a fraction of the cost of traditional market research. Suzy has been recognized on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Startup Employers in 2022, Inc. Magazine’s list of Best Workplaces of 2022 & 2023, Inc. Magazine’s Top 5000 list in 2024, GRIT’s Top 50 Most Innovative Suppliers in Market Research and a Top 25 Innovator in 2024 by the Insights Association. Suzy has raised over $100 million in venture capital funding from investors that include Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments, Foundry Group, H.I.G. Capital, Rho Ventures, North Atlantic Capital, Tribeca Venture Partners, Triangle Peak Partners, and Kevin Durant’s 35 Ventures. Learn more at www.suzy.com.

    Contact Info:
    Melissa Dunn
    EVP, Marketing & Communications
    Suzy, Inc.
    917-969-8200
    melissa.dunn@suzy.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6268f633-7091-4214-b7ff-eae8796f2b0f

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Top Animal Health Experts Address H5N1 Bird Flu in Trupanion Webinar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trupanion (Nasdaq: TRUP), the leading provider of medical insurance for dogs and cats, will host an upcoming webinar focused on the evolving state of bird flu (H5N1) and its impact on pets, pet parents, and the veterinary community.

    The complimentary one-hour RACE®-Approved CE webinar “Bird Flu: What We Know Now” will be available on-demand on petpublichealth.org/h5n1-update/ on Thursday, May 8th, at 11:00 AM PT / 2:00 PM ET.

    Hosted by Trupanion’s Chief Veterinary/Product Officer, Dr. Steve Weinrauch, BVMS, MRCVS, the webinar features a panel of leading animal health experts, including:

    • Gail Golab, PhD, DVM, MANZCVS (Animal Welfare), DACAW: Associate Executive Vice President & Chief Veterinary Officer, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
    • Professor Scott Weese, DVM, DVSc, DACVIM: Veterinary Internist, Fellow (Canadian Academy of Health Sciences), Chief of Infection Control (Ontario Veterinary College), Director (University of Guelph Centre of Public Health & Zoonoses)
    • Professor Michael Lappin, DVM, PhD, DACVIM: Veterinary Internist, PhD (Parasitology), Director (Center for Companion Animal Studies, Colorado State University), Advisor (World Small Animal Veterinary Association One Health Committee)
    • Carrie Jurney, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology): Veterinary Neurologist, Owner (Remedy Veterinary Specialists), Founding President (Not One More Vet – NOMV)

    Presented as part of Trupanion’s Pet & Public Health Early Warning & Detection System, the webinar aims to equip veterinary professionals and pet parents with the latest information and practical guidance on avian flu in pets. 

    Panelists will delve into various topics, including:

    • Which pet populations may be at highest risk for avian flu.
    • How the virus can potentially spread to cats and dogs.
    • Current knowledge of clinical signs observed in pets.
    • Preventative steps veterinary teams can implement.
    • Data insights from North America and their potential implications for emerging cases.
    • Educational resources for both veterinary professionals and pet parents.

    Dr. Weinrauch commented, “The veterinary profession serves as a first line of defense for protecting both pets and public health. Empowering those entrusted with the care of our family pets is vital. Using real-time illness data, the Early Warning & Detection System concept aims to rapidly detect patterns and signs of illness in dogs and cats anywhere, any breed, any age, any sex, at any time.”

    To learn more and to stream the webinar, visit petpublichealth.org/h5n1-update/.

    About Trupanion’s Pet & Public Health Early Warning Detection System

    Trupanion’s Pet & Public Health Early Warning Detection System utilizes real-time pet health data from over 11,000 veterinary hospitals to rapidly identify illness and disease trends impacting companion animals. By collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Boehringer Ingelheim, Mars Science & Diagnostics, the American Veterinary Medicine Association, and other leading pet and public health authorities, Trupanion aims to proactively detect and respond to potential pet and public health threats. For more information, please visit petpublichealth.org.

    About Trupanion

    Trupanion is the leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia with over 1,000,000 pets enrolled. For over two decades, Trupanion has given pet parents peace of mind so they can focus on their pet’s recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is committed to providing pet parents with the highest value in pet medical insurance with unlimited payouts for the life of their pets. With its patented process, Trupanion is the only North American provider with the technology to pay veterinarians directly in seconds at the time of checkout. Trupanion is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol “TRUP”. The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Seattle, WA. Trupanion policies are issued, in the United States, by its wholly owned insurance entity American Pet Insurance Company and, in Canada, by Accelerant Insurance Company of Canada or GPIC Insurance Company. Trupanion Australia is a partnership between Trupanion and Hollard Insurance Company. Policies are sold and administered in Canada by Canada Pet Health Insurance Services, Inc. dba Trupanion 309-1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver, BC V7J 0A2 and in the United States by Trupanion Managers USA, Inc. (CA license No. 0G22803, NPN 9588590). Canada Pet Health Insurance Services, Inc. is a registered damage insurance agency and claims adjuster in Quebec #603927. Trupanion Australia is a partnership between Trupanion and Hollard Insurance Company. For more information, please visit trupanion.com

    Contact: 

    Laura Bainbridge, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications
    Gil Melchior, Director, Investor Relations
    Investor.Relations@trupanion.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: FHLBank Atlanta Contributes Nearly $6 Million to Help Homeowners Safeguard their Inheritances

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta) is awarding a total of $5.9 million to 21 organizations committed to preventing and resolving heirs’ property issues through its Heirs’ Property Family Wealth Protection Fund (FWP).

    Heirs’ property issues arise when a homeowner passes away without a will/trust or estate plan or when a property is left to multiple beneficiaries without a plan to manage it, resulting in a tangled or fractured title.

    A 2024 Harris Poll survey sponsored by FHLBank Atlanta found that 90% of homeowners expect the equity in their home to benefit their heirs, yet 43% don’t have a will/trust or estate plan. Further, more than a third (38%) of homeowners without a will/trust or estate plan intend to leave their property to more than one heir.

    Click here to view the grant recipients of the Family Wealth Protection Fund, which are each delivering services to homeowners to resolve tangled titles, executing wills and estate plans, or provide education on heirs’ property.

    “As part of our broader work to address housing challenges, we added a program to focus on heirs’ property issues,” said FHLBank Atlanta President and CEO Kirk Malmberg. “Without the proper paperwork or legal process, it is often difficult for homeowners or their heirs to benefit from those assets, which are often purchased with the goal of building generational wealth. The organizations receiving these grants work with homeowners to resolve tangled titles, execute wills and estate plans and provide education to ensure their intended heirs can benefit from the hard-earned equity in their homes.”

    Organizations receiving the grant funding assist property owners located in low-to-moderate income areas within the FHLBank Atlanta district: Alabama, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.

    “In addition to our programs that provide downpayment assistance to homeowners and expand access to affordable housing, we introduced the Family Wealth Protection Fund to address another key challenge impacting the housing sector,” said FHLBank Atlanta Senior Vice President and Director of Community Investment Services Tomeka Strickland. “This program aims to help individuals ensure they have clear titles and to strengthen communities, which are impacted by neighborhood blight when homes cannot be maintained or sold.”

    About FHLBank Atlanta
    FHLBank Atlanta offers competitively-priced financing, community development grants, and other banking services to help member financial institutions make affordable home mortgages and provide economic development credit to neighborhoods and communities. The Bank’s members are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, community development financial institutions, and insurance companies located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. FHLBank Atlanta is one of 11 district Banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Since 1990, the FHLBanks have awarded approximately $9.1 billion in Affordable Housing Program funds, assisting more than 1.2 million households.  

    For more information, visit www.fhlbatl.com.

    CONTACT:
    Sheryl Touchton
    Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
    stouchton@fhlbatl.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NBT Bancorp Inc. Completes Merger With Evans Bancorp, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NORWICH, N.Y., May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NBT Bancorp Inc. (“NBT” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: NBTB) announced that it completed the merger (“Merger”) of Evans Bancorp, Inc. (“Evans”) with and into NBT on May 2, 2025, followed by a core systems conversion over the weekend.

    The Merger has extended the NBT Bank, N.A. (“NBT Bank”) branch network into the Western Region of New York with the addition of 14 banking offices in the Buffalo area and 4 locations in greater Rochester. NBT Bank now has 175 branches across its seven-state footprint.

    “We are thrilled to welcome over 200 employees and more than 40,000 customers from Evans Bank into the NBT family as a result of this merger,” said NBT President and CEO Scott A. Kingsley. “Adding the Buffalo and Rochester markets to our service area is a natural extension of our footprint in Upstate New York. We look forward to building on the relationships Evans has established with customers, communities and shareholders as we focus on continuing to support all stakeholders with a smooth transition.”

    Three executives from Evans have assumed leadership positions with NBT Bank. Ken Pawlak now serves as President of the Western Region of New York and Buffalo Regional President. Tim Brown is Rochester Regional President, and Audrey Meyers is Senior Territory Manager for Retail Banking in the Buffalo and Rochester markets.

    “The addition of Ken Pawlak, Tim Brown and Audrey Meyers to the NBT Bank leadership team will provide important continuity in leadership that will support our commitment to being responsive to our employees and customers in the Western Region of New York,” said NBT Bank President Joseph R. Stagliano. “We value their extensive banking experience and knowledge of the region.”

    Later this month following NBT’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the Company will appoint former Evans President and CEO David J. Nasca to its board of directors consistent with the terms of the merger agreement.

    About NBT Bancorp
    NBT Bancorp is a financial holding company headquartered in Norwich, NY, with total assets of $13.86 billion at March 31, 2025. The Company primarily operates through NBT Bank, N.A., a full-service community bank, and through two financial services subsidiaries. NBT Bank, N.A. has 175 banking locations in New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Connecticut. EPIC Retirement Plan Services is a national benefits administration firm based in Rochester, NY. NBT Insurance Agency, LLC, is a full-service regional insurance agency based in Norwich, NY.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements about NBT and its industry involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Statements other than statements of current or historical fact, including statements regarding NBT’s future financial condition, results of operations, business plans, liquidity, cash flows, projected costs, and the impact of any laws or regulations applicable to NBT, are forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “may,” “will,” “should” and other similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results.

    Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the following: (1) the businesses of NBT and Evans may not be combined successfully, or such combination may take longer to accomplish than expected; (2) the cost savings from the merger may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; (3) operating costs, customer loss and business disruption following the merger, including adverse effects on relationships with employees, may be greater than expected; (4) the possibility that NBT may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in the merger within the expected timeframes or at all or to successfully integrate Evans’ operations and those of NBT; (5) such integration may be more difficult, time consuming or costly than expected; (6) revenues following the transaction may be lower than expected; (7) NBT’s success in executing its business plan and strategy and managing the risks involved in the foregoing; (8) the dilution caused by NBT’s issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the transaction; (9) changes in general economic conditions, including changes in market interest rates and changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; and (10) legislative and regulatory changes. Further information about these and other relevant risks and uncertainties may be found in NBT’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and in subsequent filings with the SEC.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. NBT does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to publicly release the result of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

    Contact:    Scott A. Kingsley, President and CEO
    Annette L. Burns, Executive Vice President and CFO
    NBT Bancorp Inc.
    52 South Broad Street
    Norwich, NY 13815
    607-337-6589
         

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: ASEAN+3 finance ministers, central bank governors conclude meeting in Milan

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

    MILAN, May 5 — Finance ministers and central bank governors from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), China, Japan and the Republic of Korea (ASEAN Plus Three or 10+3) finished their 28th annual meeting here on Sunday.

    Co-chaired by China and Malaysia this year, the meeting focused on global and regional macroeconomic developments and regional financial cooperation under the 10+3 framework and issued a joint statement.

    According to the statement, participants supported the updating of the strategic direction for ASEAN+3 financial cooperation and agreed to launch technical assistance tools aimed at addressing medium- to long-term structural challenges.

    Members affirmed the progress of the discussion on the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralization and welcomed the new director of ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office and the expansion of the ASEAN+3 Financial Think-tank Network, said the statement.

    The 10+3 also welcomed the in-depth development of the local bond market in the region and approved the concept document of the future roadmap for the Disaster Risk Financing Initiative, the statement noted.

    In his remarks, China’s Finance Minister Lan Fo’an said that the current global economic landscape is undergoing profound adjustments, with globalization facing rising trends of unilateralism and protectionism.

    Despite these challenges, he said, the ASEAN+3 regional economy has demonstrated strong resilience and held considerable growth potential.

    China stands ready to work with ASEAN+3 partners to uphold openness and inclusiveness and to deepen regional financial cooperation continuously with a view to providing stability and certainty amid global turbulence, Lan said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Apple introduces the 2025 Pride Collection

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple introduces the 2025 Pride Collection

    UPDATE May 5, 2025

    Ahead of Pride Month, Apple is introducing a new Apple Watch Pride Edition Sport Band, watch face, and iPhone and iPad wallpaper to celebrate the strength and beauty of LGBTQ+ communities around the world. The Pride Edition Sport Band is available to order today, and the matching, dynamic watch face and wallpaper will be available in an upcoming software update.

    Featuring a tapestry of rainbow stripes that vary in shape and size, each Pride Edition Sport Band is assembled by hand from individual stripes of vibrant color that are compression-molded together, creating subtle yet striking variations. No two bands are exactly alike, reflecting the individuality of all members of the LGBTQ+ community.

    The Pride Edition Sport Band is assembled by hand from individual stripes of vibrant color that are compression-molded together, creating subtle yet striking variations.

    The new Pride Harmony watch face and iPhone and iPad wallpaper offer a complementary design. The analog watch face presents bold, individual rainbow stripes, which dynamically shift in sequence across the face of the display to form large hour numerals as users raise their wrist to check the time. The iPhone and iPad wallpaper features colors that change position as users move, lock, or unlock the device. The Pride Harmony watch face and iPhone and iPad wallpaper will be available in an upcoming software update with watchOS 11.5, iOS 18.5, and iPadOS 18.5.

    Apple is proud to financially support organizations that serve LGBTQ+ communities.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Announces Agenda, Panelists for Roundtable on Tokenization Plus Date Change for Roundtable on DeFi

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Crypto Task Force has announced the agenda and panelists for its May 12 roundtable, “Tokenization — Moving Assets Onchain: Where TradFi and DeFi Meet.”

    “Tokenization is a technological development that could substantially change many aspects of our financial markets,” said Commissioner Hester M. Peirce, leader of the Crypto Task Force. “I look forward to hearing ideas from our panelists on how the SEC should approach this area.”

    The roundtable, announced in March as part of a series on crypto asset regulation, will be held at the SEC’s headquarters at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. from 1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The event will be open to the public and webcast live on the SEC’s website. Doors will open at 12 p.m.

    For online attendance, registration is not necessary; a link to watch the event will be available on May 12 on www.sec.gov. Please register for in-person attendance.

    In addition, the date for the Crypto Task Force’s roundtable, “DeFi and the American Spirit,” has been changed from June 6 to June 9. All those who previously registered were informed of the change of date, and their registrations have carried forward to the new date. New registrations can continue to be completed.

    To learn more about the Crypto Task Force and the roundtable topics, please visit the Crypto Task Force webpage.

    *    *    *

    Agenda

    1 p.m. –

    2 p.m.

    Opening/Welcome Remarks from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

    • Richard B. Gabbert, Chief of Staff, Crypto Task Force
    • Chairman Paul S. Atkins (keynote address)
    • Commissioner Caroline A. Crenshaw
    • Commissioner Mark T. Uyeda
    • Commissioner Hester M. Peirce

    2 p.m. –

    3:30 p.m.

    Evolution of Finance: Capital Markets 2.0

    Moderator:

    • Jeff Dinwoodie, Cravath

    Panelists:

    • Cynthia Lo Bessette, Fidelity
    • Eun Ah Choi, Nasdaq
    • Will Geyer, Invesco
    • Sandy Kaul, Franklin Templeton
    • Robert Mitchnick, BlackRock
    • Christine Moy, Apollo Management
    • Johnny Reinsch, Tokenized Asset Coalition
    • Christian Sabella, DTCC
    • Alex Zozos, SuperState

    3:30 p.m. –

    4 p.m.

    Break

    4 p.m. –

    5:30 p.m.

    The Future of Tokenization

    Moderator:

    • Tiffany Smith, WilmerHale

    Panelists:

    • Hilary Allen, American University Washington College of Law
    • Gene Hoffman, Chia Network
    • Johann Kerbrat, Robinhood
    • Kelly Mathieson, Canton
    • Sidney Powell, Maple Finance
    • Georgia Quinn, Securitize
    • Joshua Rivera, Blockchain Capital
    • Angela Walch, Independent Researcher

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Announces $202 Million Settlement with Gilead Sciences for Using Speaker Programs to Pay Kickbacks to Doctors to Induce Them to Prescribe Gilead’s Drugs

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Gilead Admits to Paying Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars to High Prescribers of Gilead’s HIV Drugs to Serve as Speakers at Programs and to Holding Programs at Luxury Restaurants

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Naomi Gruchacz, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”); Christopher M. Silvestro, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (“DCIS”), the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General (“DOD-OIG”); and Christopher G. Raia, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today that the U.S. has settled a civil fraud lawsuit against GILEAD SCIENCES, INC (“GILEAD”), a large pharmaceutical manufacturer, that, among other things, develops, manufactures, and sells drugs for the treatment of infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS. The settlement resolves claims that GILEAD offered and paid kickbacks in the form of honoraria payments, meals, and travel expenses to healthcare practitioners who spoke at or attended Gilead speaker events to induce them to prescribe Stribild®, Genvoya®, Complera®, Odefsey®, Descovy®, and Biktarvy® (the “Gilead HIV Drugs”) in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute (“AKS”) and thereby caused false claims for the Gilead HIV Drugs to be submitted to and paid by federal healthcare programs in violation of the False Claims Act.

    Under the settlement, which was approved yesterday by U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer, GILEAD agreed to pay a total sum of $202 million, of which $176,927,889.28 will be paid to the U.S. and the remainder will be paid to various states.  As part of the settlement, GILEAD also made extensive factual admissions regarding its conduct.

    U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said: “For years, Gilead unlawfully sought to increase sales of its HIV drugs, by using its speaker programs to funnel kickbacks to doctors.  As alleged, Gilead spent tens of millions of dollars on these programs, including over $20 million in speaking fees and millions more in exorbitant meals, alcohol and travel, all in an effort to induce doctors to prescribe Gilead’s HIV drugs and drive up sales.  With this settlement, Gilead has taken responsibility for its conduct and agreed to pay a significant financial penalty.  The message is clear, companies that illegally drain taxpayer dollars from federal healthcare programs will be held accountable.”

    HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz said: “This impactful settlement is the result of collaborative work by law enforcement partners, revealing Gilead’s unlawful practice of providing kickbacks to physicians under the guise of its HIV educational speaker programs.  Violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute, which in this case involved expensive HIV medications, can inappropriately influence physicians’ decision-making and divert the monies of taxpayer-funded federal healthcare programs.”

    DCIS Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro: “This settlement is the result of the partnership among law enforcement and the Department of Justice to aggressively investigate and hold accountable companies and their employees who value greed over healthcare.  Protecting TRICARE, the healthcare system for Service members and their families, and investigating kickback schemes are priorities for DCIS.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia said: “This settlement ensures Gilead is held accountable for their illicit use of perks and kickbacks to entice doctors to prescribe the company’s medicine.  These types of schemes are not victimless – illegal kickbacks directly affect taxpayer funded healthcare programs.  The FBI will continue to investigate and stop healthcare companies attempting to benefit from deceitful and illegal practices.”

    As alleged in the Complaint filed in Manhattan federal court:

    The Gilead HIV Drugs are antiretroviral drugs (i.e., drugs that act against retroviruses such as HIV) used for the treatment of HIV.  These drugs are very expensive—Medicare typically paid well in excess of a thousand dollars for a one-month supply of Complera®, and significantly more for many of the other Gilead HIV Drugs.

    As part of its marketing efforts and to increase sales, Gilead conducted events known as “HIV Speaker Programs” at which a healthcare provider involved in the treatment of HIV was engaged to present a slide deck (prepared by Gilead) and facilitate discussion about one of the drugs or a topic concerning HIV (an “HIV Disease State Topic”) to other healthcare providers involved in the treatment of HIV (“Attendees”).  Gilead’s HIV Speaker Programs were often held in the evening at restaurants (“HIV Dinner Programs”).

    From January 2011 to November 2017 (the “Relevant Time Period”), Gilead conducted HIV Speaker Programs in order to promote and increase the sales of the Gilead HIV Drugs.  The HIV Speaker Programs were supposed to be educational in nature and the cost of any meals provided was supposed to be modest.  But in practice, during the Relevant Time Period, Gilead’s HIV Speaker Programs provided kickbacks to healthcare providers by: holding HIV Dinner Programs at high-end restaurants that were wholly inappropriate for educational events; allowing Attendees to attend HIV Dinner Programs on the exact same topic again and again and, thereby, obtain free lavish meals for events that held minimal educational value for them; and paying for HIV Speakers to travel to speak at desirable destinations—at times at the HIV Speaker’s request.  Further, Gilead’s compliance program failed to prevent these improper practices, even though Gilead knew that it had to comply with the AKS and the company’s own data should have put Gilead on notice of many of these abuses. 

    Many healthcare providers who received these improper kickbacks then prescribed the Gilead HIV Drugs.  As a result, federal healthcare programs paid millions of dollars in reimbursements for tainted prescriptions.

    As part of the settlement, GILEAD admitted and accepted responsibility for certain conduct alleged by the U.S., including the following:

    • Gilead paid many high-volume prescribers of HIV drugs tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in honoraria to prepare and present as HIV Speakers.  For instance, one HIV Speaker, who received over $300,000 in total honorarium payments, wrote prescriptions for Gilead HIV Drugs that resulted in over $6 million in Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE payments.
    • On many occasions, Gilead covered the travel costs of HIV Speakers who traveled long distances to speak at HIV Speaker Programs at desirable travel destinations, such as Hawaii, Miami, and New Orleans.  This was sometimes in response to an HIV Speaker’s request to be booked for an HIV Speaker Program in that city.
    • Sales representatives in Gilead’s HIV therapeutic area (“Sales Representatives”) organized HIV Speaker Programs at high-end restaurants across the country.  For instance, a significant percentage of the HIV Speaker Programs held in New York City were held at expensive restaurants, such as the James Beard House, Del Posto, Asiate, Palma, Vaucluse, Ilili, and Limani.  In particular, Gilead held 157 HIV Speaker Programs at the James Beard House, making it one of Gilead’s most used venues for HIV Speaker Programs.  A dinner at the James Beard House typically included approximately six courses with alcoholic beverage pairings.
    • Sales Representatives repeatedly invited numerous doctors and other healthcare providers to attend the same HIV program over and over.  Many repeatedly attended HIV Speaker Programs covering the exact same topic, often within a short period of time.
    • Over 250 prescribers of the Gilead HIV Drugs attended HIV Dinner Programs on the same topic three times or more within a six-month period.  And over 80 of them attended five or more HIV Dinner Programs on the same topic within a six-month period.
    • Further, many healthcare providers who were paid to be HIV Speakers on a particular topic also attended HIV Dinner Programs on exactly the same topic, often within less than six months after speaking.
    • In certain instances, the same group of doctors repeatedly attended the same HIV Speaker Programs together at various restaurants.  In many instances, they attended a HIV Dinner Program less than two weeks after speaking on the same topic.
    • During the Relevant Time Period, Gilead’s policies and procedures failed to prevent Sales Representatives and Regional Directors in its HIV therapeutic area from improperly providing honoraria payments, meals, and travel expenses to healthcare providers who spoke at or attended HIV Speaker Programs to induce them to prescribe the Gilead HIV Drugs. 

    In connection with the filing of the lawsuit and settlement, the Government joined a private whistleblower lawsuit that had been filed under seal pursuant to the False Claims Act.

    *                *                *

    Mr. Clayton thanked the New York Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their extensive collaboration in the investigation and resolution of this case, and also praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, HHS-OIG and DCIS.

    The case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Frauds Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob M. Bergman, Allison M. Rovner, Rebecca S. Tinio, and Lucas Issacharoff are in charge of the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Diamond Lake Minerals Launches Advanced Materials & IP Division and Files Inaugural Provisional Patent for Physics-Informed Valuation Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. (OTC: DLMI), a multi-strategy operating company focused on digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens, today announced the formation of its Advanced Materials & IP Division (AMIPD)-a wholly integrated division within DLMI that will spearhead the Company’s exploration into frontier intellectual property over the coming decade. AMIPD functions as a direct extension of DLMI; all IP and activity under AMIPD are wholly owned and controlled by DLMI.

    The division’s launch is marked by the Company’s first provisional patent filing under this new initiative, signaling the beginning of what DLMI anticipates will be a robust, multi-tiered patent portfolio. While AMIPD will serve as a strategic hub for innovation, its core function is to operationalize and commercialize advanced valuation technologies developed or acquired by DLMI, rather than independently orchestrate innovation.

    Cornerstone Filing – A Platform for IP Development

    On April 25, 2025, DLMI submitted U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/794,608, titled “Integrated System and Method for Valuation of Emerging Technologies in Physical Artifacts Utilizing Physics-Informed Replication Cost Modeling.” The application was co-invented by Mourad E. Mazouni, DLMI’s Head of Technical Strategy, and Brian J. Esposito, Chief Executive Officer. Ownership of the application resides with Diamond Lake Minerals, INC. The patent proposes a valuation model that integrates physics-based replication cost modeling with probabilistic real-options analysis to assess emerging and unconventional physical technologies.

    While the model offers a structured, repeatable approach to valuation, it does not replicate materials. Instead, it aims to support DLMI’s broader efforts to assign credible value estimates to advanced technologies, as the basis and support for internal analysis, strategic licensing and future digital asset offerings.

    Key Implications

    • Portfolio Architecture: Filing No. 63/794,608-internally referred to as “Series A-1”-represents the valuation which may provide the foundation of a layered IP architecture targeting emerging materials.
    • Licensing Enablement: The model, if validated through industry adoption, may help structure more transparent value frameworks for nascent technologies in sectors such as advanced composites and energy systems.
    • Potential Digital Asset Integration: DLMI anticipates the valuation framework may support security token offerings (STOs). However, integration will depend on third-party audit validation and regulatory acceptance, which have not yet been secured.

    Strategic Objectives – Subject to Execution Risk

    DLMI has defined the following preliminary goals for AMIPD, all of which are subject to market conditions, regulatory developments, and resource constraints:

    1. Intellectual Property Development – Leverage DLMI’s internal R&D and external collaborations to file patents in key domains, including advanced alloys and AI-manufactured substrates. Actual results may vary based on execution capacity and competitive disclosures.
    2. Monetization Pathways – Explore dual strategies involving traditional licensing/JVs and blockchain-based fractionalization. Monetization timelines and success rates are inherently uncertain.
    3. Innovation Partnerships – Form an advisory Innovation Council with academic and federal stakeholders. Outcomes are dependent on partnership traction and funding alignment.

    Leadership Commentary

    Brian J. Esposito, CEO of DLMI:

    “With AMIPD, we’re laying the groundwork for a sustainable IP strategy. Each filing, starting with Series A-1, aims to position DLMI to derive long-term value across technical and financial domains. That said, we are mindful of the complexity and cost involved and are proceeding with a phased, realistic approach.”

    Mourad E. Mazouni, Head of Technical Strategy, AMIPD:

    “This first filing provides DLMI with a structured framework to evaluate novel technologies. While not a solution in itself, it is a steppingstone toward building tools that help identify, assess, and potentially capitalize on high-potential innovations.”

    Understanding the Limitations of Provisional Patents

    DLMI’s provisional patent filing is an initial step and does not confer enforceable rights. Key considerations include:

    • Lack of Substantive Review: Provisional patents are not examined and may create a false sense of protection.
    • Strict One-Year Deadline: A nonprovisional application must be filed within 12 months to maintain the original filing date.
    • Disclosure Risks: Due to reduced filing requirements, there is a risk of insufficient detail in the application.
    • Limited International Applicability: Provisional applications are not recognized globally; separate filings will be required for international protection.

    Roadmap – Subject to Change

    Phase Timeline Goals Deliverables
    Seed &
    Validation
    2025–
    2026
    Initial filings and valuation prototypes Series A patent family
    Expansion &
    Layering
    2026–
    2028
    Convert to nonprovisionals; file PCTs; add continuations Series B–C patent families
    Monetization 2027–
    2029
    Explore STOs; pilot licenses (subject to negotiations) Potential revenue, if achieved
    Global
    Fortification
    2028–
    2030
    Secure patents abroad; form licensing alliances IP footprint expansion (aspired)

    All forward-looking statements above are dependent on internal development timelines, regulatory approvals, partnership engagement, and capital availability. DLMI does not guarantee specific outcomes and disclaims any obligation to update this roadmap in the absence of material developments.

    About Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. 

    Founded in Utah in 1954, Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. (OTC: DLMI) is a multi-strategy operating company that specializes in the development and support of digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens. Our goal is to responsibly innovate and develop valuable traditional businesses and successfully combine them with the future of money and digital assets. Our mission is to bring back to the public markets timeless business principles that are focused on healthy sustainable growth and strong earnings that generate yields combined in a modern digital world creating value for our stakeholders. DLMI is positioning itself as an industry-agnostic leader in the digital asset and security token space.

    Safe Harbor Statement 

    This release contains “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements also may be included in other publicly available documents issued by DLMI and in oral statements made by our officers and representatives from time to time. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide management’s current expectations or plans for our future operating and financial performance, based on assumptions currently believed to be valid. They can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “will” and other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. 

    Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to future sales, earnings, cash flows, results of operations, uses of cash, and other measures of financial performance. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause DLMI’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others such as, but are not limited to economic conditions, changes in the laws or regulations, demand for DLMI’s products and services, the effects of competition, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or represented in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking information provided in this release should be considered with these factors in mind. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release. 

    Company Contact:

    Gary Zlobinskiy

    ir@diamondlakeminerals.com

    https://diamondlakeminerals.com/

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Hanmi Financial to Participate in the D.A. Davidson 27th Annual Financial Institutions Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hanmi Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: HAFC, or “Hanmi”), the parent company of Hanmi Bank (the “Bank”), today announced its participation in the D.A. Davidson 27th Annual Financial Institutions Conference on Tuesday, May 6 and Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Scottsdale, AZ.

    Bonnie Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Santarosa, Chief Financial Officer, will host one-on-one and small group meetings during the conference.

    A copy of the presentation being used for meetings with institutional investors will be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.hanmi.com.

    About Hanmi Financial Corporation
    Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Hanmi Financial Corporation owns Hanmi Bank, which serves multi-ethnic communities through its network of 32 full-service branches, five loan production offices and three loan centers in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Hanmi Bank specializes in real estate, commercial, SBA and trade finance lending to small and middle market businesses. Additional information is available at www.hanmi.com.

    Investor Contacts:
    Romolo (Ron) Santarosa
    Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
    213-427-5636

    Lisa Fortuna
    Investor Relations
    Financial Profiles, Inc.
    lfortuna@finprofiles.com
    310-622-8251

    Source: Hanmi Bank

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: KVH Industries to Host First Quarter Conference Call on May 7, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDDLETOWN, R.I., May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KVH Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: KVHI), will announce its financial results for the first quarter that ended on March 31, 2025, on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. In conjunction with the release, the company will conduct its investor conference call at 9:00 a.m. ET, hosted by Mr. Brent Bruun, CEO, and Mr. Anthony Pike, CFO.

    A live broadcast of the call will be available online at investors.kvh.com. In addition, an audio replay of the conference call will be available on the website for at least two weeks. To listen to the replay, visit investors.kvh.com starting three hours following the conclusion of the call. Investors who wish to submit questions during or following the call may do so to IR@kvh.com.

    About KVH Industries, Inc.

    KVH Industries, Inc. is a global leader in maritime and mobile connectivity delivered via the KVH ONE® network. The company, founded in 1982, is based in Middletown, RI, with research, development, and manufacturing operations in Middletown, RI, and more than a dozen offices around the globe. KVH provides connectivity solutions for commercial maritime, leisure marine, military/government, and land mobile applications on vessels and vehicles, including the TracNet®, TracPhone®, and TracVision® product lines, the KVH ONE OpenNet Program for non-KVH antennas, AgilePlans® Connectivity as a Service (CaaS), and the KVH Link crew wellbeing content service.

    Contact: Chris Watson
      VP, Marketing/Communications
      KVH Industries, Inc.
      401-845-2441
      cwatson@kvh.com 

            
            

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [Testimonials] Positive Impact of Samsung Innovation Campus on WSU Students

    Source: Samsung

    In today’s digital age, traditional qualifications alone are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of the local economy – practical skills, problem-solving abilities and technological fluency are now also essential to develop work-ready job seekers and entrepreneurs with in-demand skills needed by the local economy.
     
    In response to this need, Samsung has – over the years through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as the global Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) – collaborated with esteemed academic institutions such as the Walter Sisulu University (WSU). This strategic partnership was formed in an effort to bridge the gap between traditional education and the demand for skills training tailored specifically for the current job market that requires modern tech expertise.
     
    Importantly, Samsung recognises how essential SIC is in driving economic growth and technological advancement in South Africa and the continent as a whole. This partnership with WSU therefore, aims to provide ICT education to students from underserved communities in the Eastern Cape. This global SIC programme is designed to provide practical, cutting-edge training in digital skills and has since inception, also trained participants on a range of soft skills to foster talented youth who will go on to shape the future society. This SIC programme is a forward-thinking initiative that seeks to continue addressing the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
     
    These are some of the reasons why Samsung has remained dedicated to making a long-term social impact by investing in education, youth skills training and technological innovation. Over the years, the company has invested in youth development and workforce skills training by equipping students with in-demand digital skills needed by the local economy.
    Along with core competencies such as artificial intelligence (AI) as well as Coding and Programming (C&P) training in Python – SIC has been providing progressive knowledge to students ensuring that they are both academically qualified and industry work-ready.
     
    These high-demand skills are positioning the country’s youth for careers in technology-driven sectors and entrepreneurship. The institution is making these incredible strides because it has long recognised that the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping education, work and daily life. WSU has now also ensured that technology is integrated into its teaching, research and student development initiatives. Importantly, the university has now made sure that digital transformation has become a strategic priority, by establishing an AI Centre that will serve as a hub for advanced digital skills training, research and innovation.
    For Samsung’s CSR initiatives, measurable impact on the country’s youth including young women has always been essential. This SIC programme has now touched the lives of about 71 young people at WSU – a combination of both males and females. With this programme, WSU students have now been prepared for careers in technology by creating both employment and entrepreneurial opportunities that will help them make a positive impact on society. For this reason, Samsung spoke to some alumni students about their experience in the programme and this, is what they had to say:
     
    A graduate and an alumni from the WSU-SIC programme who is originally from Lusikisiki, Atsho Nota has a diploma in Application Development studies which she believes has given her a strong foundation in technology and problem-solving.

    Atsho has always been passionate about technology and how it can be used to improve people’s lives. She added that this programme has made a significant difference in her personal and professional growth.
     
    “It has given me the opportunity to develop hands-on technical skills”, she explained: “I’ve now gained industry experience and it has improved my confidence in working with advanced technology. Also, the practical training has enhanced my problem-solving abilities significantly and prepared me for real-world challenges in the tech industry,” she added. Atsho’s future plans include advancing her career in the tech industry, possibly specialising in software development. She hopes to use her skills to contribute to innovative solutions and maybe even start her own business in the future. Atsho also wants to continue learning and growing in the field of technology to stay updated with industry advancements.
     
    Another impressive alumni student from the SIC programme is Lazola Leonardo Mbangata, who is currently running his own start-up company called Xero Technologies, while also pursuing a postgraduate degree – majoring in Software development. Born and raised in Butterworth, this young man has various certifications in data science and cyber security. For Lazola, this SIC programme has played a crucial role in his career and advancement in IT.
     

     
    He believes that studying Python and AI has advanced his development skills and enhanced his projects for automation and usability – thus bringing him one step closer to his future goal of AI security. “I decided to sign up for the programme because of my interest in AI and Python because I believed that this would grow my mind and understanding in the field, he said. “Also, working with a big company like Samsung was potentially an opportunity for crucial doors to be opened for me.”
     
    What Lazola found most interesting during the SIC lessons is the diversity in IT and the opportunity to not only build software but also to deal with software management and publishing. These skills that Lazola acquired have ensured that his business is on track for success. What is still a bit of a challenge is finding local clients, however he’s still quite determined and very optimistic.
     
    For Samsung, this partnership with WSU exemplifies the kind of university-industry collaboration that has ensured that together, they can continue training the leaders of tomorrow to use AI tools and other innovative technology platforms to effectively maximise the benefits of these new and exciting emerging technologies in their future careers.
    These testimonies are proof that this SIC initiative not only enhances individual career prospects, but also contributes significantly to building a group of resilient and future-ready workforce as well as technology entrepreneurs. Samsung’s efforts underscore its broader commitment to technological innovation and sustainable community development in the country.
     
    Sinethemba Mpambane, DVC: Institutional Support and Development at WSU said: “In a country that is facing significant youth unemployment, this SIC curriculum is a game-changer as it offers students direct access to opportunities in AI, software development and digital solutions, while also fostering innovation and problem-solving. As WSU, we are now looking forward to strengthening our collaboration with Samsung, expanding these programmes and continuing to empower students with future-ready skills.”
     

     
    Mpambane added that all these WSU-driven initiatives will complement this SIC programme by providing a platform for students and industry partners to engage in cutting-edge AI-driven projects. For WSU – the impact of this SIC programme is clear. Graduates are leaving with more than just certificates; they possess tangible, in-demand skills that enhance their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
     
    And furthermore, WSU in partnership with Samsung is committed to shaping the next generation of African technology leaders. This institution is seeking to become an impactful, technology-infused African university that remains relevant in today’s digital world, while preparing its students for the future. The SIC programme is but one of the ways of ensuring that WSU achieves its vision for the future.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hurricane forecasts are more accurate than ever – NOAA funding cuts could change that, with a busy storm season coming

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chris Vagasky, Meteorologist and Research Program Manager, University of Wisconsin-Madison

    Radar shows a NOAA Hurricane Hunter flying through the eye of Tropical Storm Idalia during a mission in 2023. Nick Underwood/NOAA

    The National Hurricane Center’s forecasts in 2024 were its most accurate on record, from its one-day forecasts, as tropical cyclones neared the coast, to its forecasts five days into the future, when storms were only beginning to come together.

    Thanks to federally funded research, forecasts of tropical cyclone tracks today are up to 75% more accurate than they were in 1990. A National Hurricane Center forecast three days out today is about as accurate as a one-day forecast in 2002, giving people in the storm’s path more time to prepare and reducing the size of evacuations.

    Accuracy will be crucial again in 2025, as meteorologists predict another active Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

    Yet, cuts in staffing and threats to funding at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – which includes the National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service – are diminishing operations that forecasters rely on.

    I am a meteorologist who studies lightning in hurricanes and helps train other meteorologists to monitor and forecast tropical cyclones. Here are three of the essential components of weather forecasting that have been targeted for cuts to funding and staff at NOAA.

    Tracking the wind

    To understand how a hurricane is likely to behave, forecasters need to know what’s going on in the atmosphere far from the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.

    Hurricanes are steered by the winds around them. Wind patterns detected today over the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains – places like Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska and South Dakota – give forecasters clues to the winds that will be likely along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts in the days ahead.

    Satellites can’t take direct measurements, so to measure these winds, scientists rely on weather balloons. That data is essential both for forecasts and to calibrate the complicated formulas forecasters use to make estimates from satellite data.

    A meteorologist prepares to launch a weather balloon at Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyo. Data collected by the balloon’s radiosonde will help predict local weather that can influence fire behavior.
    Neal Herbert/National Park Service

    However, in early 2025, the Trump administration terminated or suspended weather balloon launches at more than a dozen locations.

    That move and other cuts and threatened cuts at NOAA have raised red flags for forecasters across the country and around the world.

    Forecasters everywhere, from TV to private companies, rely on NOAA’s data to do their jobs. Much of that data would be extremely expensive if not impossible to replicate.

    Under normal circumstances, weather balloons are released from around 900 locations around the world at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Eastern time every day. While the loss of just 12 of these profiles may not seem significant, small amounts of missing data can lead to big forecast errors. This is an example of chaos theory, more popularly known as the butterfly effect.

    The balloons carry a small instrument called a radiosonde, which records data as it rises from the surface of the Earth to around 120,000 feet above ground. The radiosonde acts like an all-in-one weather station, beaming back details of the temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction, and air pressure every 15 feet through its flight.

    Together, all these measurements help meteorologists interpret the atmosphere overhead and feed into computer models used to help forecast weather around the country, including hurricanes.

    Hurricane Hunters

    For more than 80 years, scientists have been flying planes into hurricanes to measure each storm’s strength and help forecast its path and potential for damage.

    Known as “Hurricane Hunters,” these crews from the U.S. Air Force Reserve and NOAA routinely conduct reconnaissance missions throughout hurricane season using a variety of instruments. Similar to weather balloons, these flights are making measurements that satellites can’t.

    Hurricane Hunters use Doppler radar to gauge how the wind is blowing and LiDAR to measure temperature and humidity changes. They drop probes to measure the ocean temperature down several hundred feet to tell how much warm water might be there to fuel the storm.

    They also release 20 to 30 dropsondes, measuring devices with parachutes. As the dropsondes fall through the storm, they transmit data about the temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction and air pressure every 15 feet or so from the plane to the ocean.

    Dropsondes from Hurricane Hunter flights are the only way to directly measure what is occurring inside the storm. Although satellites and radars can see inside hurricanes, these are indirect measurements that do not have the fine-scale resolution of dropsonde data.

    That data tells National Hurricane Center forecasters how intense the storm is and whether the atmosphere around the storm is favorable for strengthening. Dropsonde data also helps computer models forecast the track and intensity of storms days into the future.

    Two NOAA Hurricane Hunter flight directors were laid off in February 2025, leaving only six when 10 are preferred. Directors are the flight meteorologists aboard each flight who oversee operations and ensure the planes stay away from the most dangerous conditions.

    Having fewer directors limits the number of flights that can be sent out during busy times when Hurricane Hunters are monitoring multiple storms. And that would limit the accurate data the National Hurricane Center would have for forecasting storms.

    Eyes in the sky

    Weather satellites that monitor tropical storms from space provide continuous views of each storm’s track and intensity changes. The equipment on these satellites and software used to analyze it make increasingly accurate hurricane forecasts possible. Much of that equipment is developed by federally funded researchers.

    For example, the Cooperative Institutes in Wisconsin and Colorado have developed software and methods that help meteorologists better understand the current state of tropical cyclones and forecast future intensity when aircraft reconnaissance isn’t immediately available.

    Forecasting rapid intensification is one of the great challenges for hurricane scientists. It’s the dangerous shift when a tropical cyclone’s wind speeds jump by at least 35 mph (56 kilometers per hour) in 24 hours.

    For example, in 2018, Hurricane Michael’s rapid intensification caught the Florida Panhandle by surprise. The Category 5 storm caused billions of dollars in damage across the region, including at Tyndall Air Force Base, where several F-22 Stealth Fighters were still in hangars.

    NOAA’s GOES-16 satellite shows Hurricanes Irma, left, and Jose in the Atlantic Ocean on Sept. 7, 2017.
    NOAA National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), CC BY

    Under the federal budget proposal details released so far, including a draft of agencies’ budget plans marked up by Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, known as the passback, there is no funding for Cooperative Institutes. There is also no funding for aircraft recapitalization. A 2022 NOAA plan sought to purchase up to six new aircraft that would be used by Hurricane Hunters.

    The passback budget also cut funding for some technology from future satellites, including lightning mappers that are used in hurricane intensity forecasting and to warn airplanes of risks.

    It only takes one

    Tropical storms and hurricanes can have devastating effects, as Hurricanes Helene and Milton reminded the country in 2024. These storms, while well forecast, resulted in billions of dollars of damage and hundreds of fatalities.

    The U.S. has been facing more intense storms, and the coastal population and value of property in harm’s way are growing. As five former directors of the National Weather Service wrote in an open letter, cutting funding and staff from NOAA’s work that is improving forecasting and warnings ultimately threatens to leave more lives at risk.

    Chris Vagasky is a member of the American Meteorological Society and National Weather Association.

    ref. Hurricane forecasts are more accurate than ever – NOAA funding cuts could change that, with a busy storm season coming – https://theconversation.com/hurricane-forecasts-are-more-accurate-than-ever-noaa-funding-cuts-could-change-that-with-a-busy-storm-season-coming-255369

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bessemer Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for His Role in an Elder Fraud Scheme

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Bessemer man has been sentenced for his role in an elder fraud scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.

    U.S. District Court Judge Anna Manasco sentenced Terrance Alonzo Pruitt, 47, to 50 months in prison. In December 2024, Pruitt was convicted by a jury of two counts of wire fraud.

    According to evidence presented at trial, in September 2023, Pruitt executed a Power of Attorney over an elderly family member with dementia without the victim’s knowledge or permission.  Between September 2023 and December 2023, Pruitt devised a scheme to defraud the victim by becoming a joint account holder on the victim’s bank accounts, changing the address on the victim’s bank accounts from the victim’s address to his address, removing two payable on death (POD) beneficiaries from one of the accounts, and adding two POD beneficiaries to another account. Pruitt then transferred $550,000 in funds from the victim’s accounts to his personal bank accounts. Pruitt used some of these funds for his own personal benefit, and he moved $500,000 to a new bank account that did not include the victim as an account holder. When confronted, Pruitt told various, inconsistent stories attempting to excuse his conduct.

    Pruitt’s sentencing range was increased because he received an enhancement for obstruction of justice after it was determined that he committed perjury when he testified in his own defense at trial.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan S. Rummage and Brett Janich prosecuted the case.

    Reporting from consumers about fraud and attempted fraud is critical to law enforcement’s efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud, and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed 10am-6pm Eastern Time, Monday-Friday. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.  More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.  Victims are encouraged to file a complaint online with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at this website or by calling 1-800-225-5324.  

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing $168,000 From His Employer

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Michael Torres, 37, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to financial institution fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that between September 2021 and February 2022, Torres was employed as a Relationship Manager at Financial Institution 1. While in this position, he misused his position to apply for loans through Financial Institution 1 in the names of individuals without their knowledge or authorization. Torres applied for 19 loans for a total of $168,000, which was deposited into bank accounts that he controlled.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

    Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – EP TODAY – Monday, 5 May

    Source: European Parliament 3

    Last-minute press briefing at 16:30

    The Parliament’s Spokesperson and the Press Service will hold a press briefing on this week’s plenary session at 16:30. Follow the last-minute briefing live.

    Journalists wishing to take part and ask questions should please connect via Interactio.

    Remembering Pope Francis

    After the opening of the plenary session, EP President Roberta Metsola will make a statement on the passing of Pope Francis, followed by contributions from one speaker per political group. MEPs will then observe a minute’s silence.

    Andreas KLEINER

    (+32) 498 98 33 22

    EuroParlPress

    Estefania NARRILLOS

    (+32) 498 98 39 85

    EuroParlPress

    MEP’s expectations for the EU-UK summit on 19 May

    From around 17:45, MEPs, Commissioner Šefčovič and Polish Minister for EU Affairs Szłapka will debate their priorities and demands for the first EU-UK summit on British soil since Brexit. Among other topics, the 19 May summit is expected to focus on defence cooperation, opportunities for young people, and trade issues.

    Viktor ALMQVIST

    (+32) 470 88 29 42

    EP_ForeignAff

    In brief

    Combating fraud. From around 19:00, MEPs will discuss Parliament’s 2023 report on how to protect the EU’s financial interests and combat fraud with Commissioner Serafin. The vote will take place on Tuesday.

    European Investment Bank. From around 20:00, MEPs, EC Vice-President Fitto and Robert de Groot, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, will assess the Bank’s financial activities in 2023. The vote will take place on Tuesday.

    Economic and social cohesion. From around 21:00, Parliament will debate with EC Vice-President Fitto progress and obstacles to economic and social cohesion in the EU. The vote will take place on Thursday.

    Live coverage of the plenary session can be found on Parliament’s webstreaming site and on EbS+.

    For detailed information on the session, please also see our newsletter.

    Find more information regarding plenary.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: GraniteShares ETFs Announces Change to the Investment Objective on one of its Inverse Leveraged ETFs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As announced on March 05, 2025 the investment strategy for the GraniteShares 1x Short COIN Daily ETF (ticker: CONI) will be amended and result in a new fund name and a new leverage factor.

    Effective May 05, 2025, CONI will aim to replicate -2 times the daily variations of Coinbase Global, Inc. The fund will be renamed the GraniteShares 2x Short COIN Daily ETF

    CONI’s CUSIP, ticker and listing venue are not impacted.

    TICKER SYMBOL CURRENT FUND NAME CURRENT LEVERAGE FACTOR NEW FUND NAME NEW LEVERAGE FACTOR
    CONI GraniteShares 1x Short COIN Daily ETF -100 % GraniteShares 2x Short COIN Daily ETF -200 %

    Coinbase Global, Inc. (COIN) is a financial technology company that provides end-to-end financial infrastructure and technology for the crypto economy.

    COIN offers retail users the primary financial account for the crypto economy, institutions a marketplace with a liquidity for transacting in crypto assets, and ecosystem partners technology and services that enable them to build crypto-based applications and accept crypto assets as payment.

    ABOUT GRANITESHARES

    GraniteShares is an entrepreneurial ETF provider focused on providing innovative, cutting-edge alternative investment solutions. It was founded in 2016 by William “Will” Rhind, a well-known figure in the ETF industry, with backing from Bain Capital Ventures and other leading ETF investors. GraniteShares listed its first ETF in the United States in 2017 and its U.S. ETF offerings include a broad-based commodity index fund, physically backed gold and platinum funds and a high-income pass-through securities index fund.

    RISK FACTORS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION

    Link to Prospectus: https://graniteshares.com/media/qhccrfmc/grsh-coni-prospectus-summary.pdf

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by a Prospectus. Carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risk factors, charges and expenses before investing. Please read the prospectus before investing.

    The Fund is not suitable for all investors. The investment program of the funds is speculative, entails substantial risks and include asset classes and investment techniques not employed by most ETFs and mutual funds. Investments in the ETFs are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day.

    The Fund seeks daily leveraged investment results and is intended to be used as short-term trading vehicles. This Fund attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the respective long leveraged multiple of the performance of its underlying stock (a Leverage Long Fund).

    Investors should note that such Leverage Long Fund pursues daily leveraged investment objectives, which means that the Fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage because the Fund magnifies the performance of its underlying stock. The volatility of the underlying security may affect a Funds’ return as much as, or more than, the return of the underlying security.

    Because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day.

    Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the ETF. There can be no guarantee that an active trading market for ETF shares will develop or be maintained, or that their listing will continue or remain unchanged. Buying or selling ETF shares on an exchange may require the payment of brokerage commissions and frequent trading may incur brokerage costs that detract significantly from investment returns.

    An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The Fund is non-diversified and includes risks associated with the Fund concentrating its investments in a particular industry, sector, or geographic region which can result in increased volatility. The use of derivatives such as futures contracts and swaps are subject to market risks that may cause their price to fluctuate over time. Risks of the Fund include Effects of Compounding and Market Volatility Risk, Leverage Risk, Market Risk, Counterparty Risk, Rebalancing Risk, Intra-Day Investment Risk, Other Investment Companies (including ETFs) Risk, and risks specific to the securities of the Underlying Stock and the sector in which it operates. These and other risks can be found in the prospectus.

    This information is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of any Funds to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Please consult your tax advisor about the tax consequences of an investment in Fund shares, including the possible application of foreign, state, and local tax laws. You could lose money by investing in the ETFs. There can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Funds will be achieved. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program.

    Media Contact:
    GraniteShares Inc.
    Attn: Media Relations
    222 Broadway, 21st Floor
    New York, NY 10038
    844-476-8747
    info@graniteshares.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Valueex (VUEE) Exchange Opens IEO Window, Leading New Opportunities in Global Blockchain Investment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fresno, CA, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In an era where blockchain technology and digital assets are rapidly rising, Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs) have become an important avenue for investors to engage with emerging projects. Valueex Exchange (VUEE), a technology-driven global fintech platform, has officially announced the launch of its IEO window, providing global investors with secure, transparent, and efficient investment opportunities in blockchain projects. With its advanced technology, strict compliance, and outstanding market performance, VUEE is becoming a pioneer in the IEO space, helping investors seize new opportunities in the digital economy.

    IEO Window: Connecting Innovation and Wealth

    Established in 2023 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia, Valueex Exchange is founded by a team of top experts in the fintech field, dedicated to creating a leading global one-stop trading platform. VUEE’s IEO window will provide investors with direct access to high-quality blockchain projects, covering cutting-edge areas such as decentralized finance (DeFi), Web3 applications, and metaverse technology. Through VUEE’s IEO platform, investors can acquire rigorously vetted high-potential project tokens, enjoying the value appreciation opportunities of early investments.

    The IEO process at VUEE is user-centric, leveraging an advanced technological framework to ensure a simple and efficient participation experience. The platform supports stablecoin transactions (such as USDT and USDC), reducing the complexities of cross-border investments, while utilizing AI-driven analytical tools to provide users with project evaluations and investment recommendations. Whether for blockchain-curious newcomers or seasoned investors seeking high returns, VUEE’s IEO window offers a secure and trustworthy entry point for investment.

    Compliance and Security: The Solid Assurance of IEO

    Valueex Exchange understands that trust is key to the success of IEOs. The platform holds two authoritative licenses: a U.S. Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) and a Money Services Business (MSB), and is regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It strictly adheres to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. VUEE’s screening process for IEO projects is particularly rigorous, requiring all listed blockchain projects to pass multiple rounds of due diligence to ensure their technical feasibility, team backgrounds, and market potential.

    By collaborating with global regulatory bodies and leading companies in the blockchain industry, VUEE has built a robust compliance and security ecosystem. Its blockchain technology applications and multilayer encryption protocols safeguard user funds and transaction data, providing a worry-free investment environment for IEO participants. U.S. investors can receive localized support through VUEE’s studio in Fresno, California (address: 265 E River Park Circle, Fresno, CA 93720), further enhancing participation confidence.

    Technological and Market Advantages: The Cornerstone of IEO Success

    Valueex Exchange’s IEO window relies on its advanced technology platform to offer users a seamless investment experience. The platform’s high-frequency trading system and blockchain integration technology ensure fast and stable transactions during the IEO period. Its AI-driven one-click financial tool intelligently recommends suitable IEO projects based on user risk preferences, helping investors optimize returns. The stablecoin trading model allows global users to participate in investments with dollar-pegged assets, mitigating exchange rate fluctuation risks.

    VUEE’s market performance further substantiates its potential in the IEO space. Since its inception, the platform has attracted over 500,000 registered users globally, with an average daily trading volume exceeding $1 billion. After entering the U.S. market in 2025, VUEE quickly garnered support from 30,000 American users, showcasing its strong brand appeal. This market trust lays a solid foundation for the success of the IEO window, attracting numerous high-quality blockchain projects to choose VUEE as their issuance platform.

    Future Vision: IEO Driving Global Innovation

    The IEO window at Valueex Exchange is not only an opportunity for investors but also a catalyst for innovation in the blockchain industry. VUEE plans to support more transformative projects through IEOs, promoting global development in areas such as DeFi, NFTs, and the metaverse. The platform will continue to deepen its technological research and development, optimize the IEO process, and expand into European, Asian, and South American markets, providing global investors with more diversified blockchain investment options.

    A VUEE spokesperson stated, “The IEO window is another milestone in empowering global investors. With stringent compliance standards and leading technology, VUEE is committed to offering users secure and efficient blockchain investment channels, helping them seize opportunities in the digital economy.”

    Seize the IEO Opportunity, Join Valueex

    Valueex Exchange’s IEO window opens the door to the future of blockchain for investors. Whether exploring the potential of emerging projects or realizing global asset appreciation, VUEE offers a trustworthy platform. Visit valueexchanges.com to learn more about the IEO window and join the global blockchain investment wave.

    Media Contact:
    Valueex Exchange

    Email: service@valueexchanges.com

    Website: valueexchanges.com

    Contact Person: SILAMPARASAN RAJIN DRAN

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: BigCommerce Taps Technology Industry Veteran with Strong Record of Innovation as Chief Product Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BigCommerce (Nasdaq: BIGC), a leading provider of open, composable commerce solutions for B2C and B2B brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors, today announced that Vipul Shah has joined the company as its new Chief Product Officer, bringing over two decades of experience building innovative products and business models at PayPal, Google, J.P. Morgan and Wells Fargo.

    At BigCommerce, Shah leads product management, product design and product strategy groups across all three of the company’s products – BigCommerce, Feedonomics and Makeswift.

    “Vipul brings an unmatched record of innovation across a range of industries. That experience will be crucial to helping us unite BigCommerce, Feedonomics, and Makeswift under one holistic product strategy,” said Travis Hess, CEO at BigCommerce. “Beyond that proven technical expertise, he is also a great culture fit for BigCommerce and shares our vision for the company moving forward.”

    Prior to BigCommerce, Shah was president and chief operating officer of venture capital-backed NEXT Trucking, where he helped digitize shipping container movement and modernize broken supply chain processes exposed during the pandemic.

    Passionate about technology and its potential to help people, Shah began his career designing aircraft engines and later worked with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to improve drug development processes. Influenced by the economic disparity he observed growing up in India, Greece and the United States, Shah then tackled the world of banking and fintech with the goal of driving financial inclusion and economic empowerment. Over 20 years at PayPal, Google, J.P. Morgan and Wells Fargo, Shah has built innovative products and business models to help consumers and businesses worldwide capitalize on the burgeoning digital economy.

    “My personal experiences have always shaped my professional work, and I’m excited to bring my perspective to BigCommerce and the broader ecommerce industry,” Shah said. “As AI ushers in a new era of ecommerce, BigCommerce, Feedonomics and Makeswift have a tremendous opportunity to deliver powerful innovation, engaging customer experiences and meaningful growth for our global community of merchants and partners.”

    Learn more about BigCommerce’s leadership team here: https://www.bigcommerce.com/company/leaders/

    About BigCommerce
    BigCommerce (Nasdaq: BIGC) is a leading open SaaS and composable ecommerce platform that empowers brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors of all sizes to build, innovate and grow their businesses online. BigCommerce provides its customers sophisticated professional-grade functionality, customization and performance with simplicity and ease-of-use. Tens of thousands of B2C and B2B companies across 150 countries and numerous industries rely on BigCommerce, including Coldwater Creek, Harvey Nichols, King Arthur Baking Co., MKM Building Supplies, United Aqua Group and Uplift Desk. For more information, please visit www.bigcommerce.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    BigCommerce® is a registered trademark of BigCommerce Pty. Ltd. Third-party trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

    Media Contact:
    Brad Hem
    pr@bigcommerce.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: The Keg Royalties Income Fund Enters into a Letter of Intent in Respect of a Proposed Acquisition of All Issued and Outstanding Units at $18.60 per Unit

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not for distribution to U.S. News wire services or dissemination in the U.S.

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Keg Royalties Income Fund (the “Fund”) (TSX: KEG.UN) today announced that it has entered into a letter of intent (the “Letter of Intent”) pursuant to which one or more affiliates of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited (collectively, “Fairfax”) would acquire all of the issued and outstanding units of the Fund (“Units”) other than those Units already owned by Fairfax (including any Units issuable in respect of securities exchangeable into Units (the “Exchangeable Units”)), at a purchase price of $18.60 per Unit (the “Offer Price“), payable in cash (the “Proposed Transaction”).

    The Offer Price represents a 30.8% premium to the closing price for the Units on May 2, 2025, and a 34.7% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average trading price as of the end of trading on May 2, 2025.
    The Proposed Transaction would not be subject to any financing condition.

    The Letter of Intent was entered into following negotiations between Hamblin Watsa Investment Counsel Ltd. (“HWIC”), in its capacity as investment manager on behalf of Fairfax, and the board of trustees of the Fund (the “Trustees”), each of whom is independent. The Trustees determined to enter into the Letter of Intent after carefully evaluating the financial terms of the Proposed Transaction and receiving advice from the Fund’s independent financial and legal advisors.

    The largest holder of outstanding Units (without taking into account any Exchangeable Units held by Fairfax), which currently holds 14.6% of the issued and outstanding Units on an undiluted basis (representing 9.9% of the Units on a fully diluted basis, including the Exchangeable Units), has entered into an agreement with HWIC, in its capacity as investment manager on behalf of Fairfax, to support the Proposed Transaction, subject to certain customary conditions.

    In connection with their continued review of the Proposed Transaction, the Trustees have retained an independent valuator to prepare a formal valuation of the Units (the “Formal Valuation“) as required under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101“) and provide an opinion that, subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications to be set forth in any written opinion, the consideration to be received by the holders of Units (other than Fairfax) pursuant to the Proposed Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to the holders of Units (other than Fairfax) (a “Fairness Opinion”).

    The Letter of Intent is not a definitive agreement with respect to the Proposed Transaction, and the execution of a definitive agreement in respect of the Proposed Transaction, if any, remains subject to, among other things, (i) the negotiation and execution of a definitive agreement on terms satisfactory to the Fund and Fairfax, (ii) final approval of the Proposed Transaction by the Trustees, and (iii) receipt of the Formal Valuation and Fairness Opinion satisfactory to the Trustees. The consummation of the Proposed Transaction would be subject to various conditions customary for transactions of this nature, including, among others, (i) receipt of any required regulatory, court and stock exchange approvals, and (ii) the approval of the Proposed Transaction at a special meeting of the holders of Units entitled to vote on the Proposed Transaction, including “minority approval” as defined under MI 61-101.

    Unitholders of the Fund do not need to take any action at this time in respect of the proposal from Fairfax pursuant to the Letter of Intent and should await further information from the Trustees in respect of the Proposed Transaction.

    While the Trustees have determined to enter into the Letter of Intent with respect to the Proposed Transaction, the Letter of Intent does not bind the Trustees or the Fund to enter into the Proposed Transaction, or any agreement in respect thereof, all of which remains subject to final approval by the Trustees. There can be no assurance that the Fund and Fairfax will enter into a definitive agreement in respect of the Proposed Transaction or that the Proposed Transaction will occur as proposed or at all. The Fund does not expect to make further public comment regarding the matters contemplated herein until a definitive agreement in respect of the Proposed Transaction is entered into or the Proposed Transaction is abandoned.

    Advisors

    Capital West Partners and Lawson Lundell LLP are acting as financial advisor and legal advisor, respectively, to the Trustees in respect of the Proposed Transaction. Torys LLP is acting as legal advisor to Fairfax in respect of the Proposed Transaction.

    Forward Looking Information

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This information includes, but is not limited to, statements concerning our objectives, our strategies to achieve those objectives, as well as statements made with respect to the Trustees’ beliefs, plans, estimates, projections and intentions, and similar statements concerning anticipated future events, results, circumstances, performance or expectations that are not historical facts. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “expects”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will”, “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, intentions, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent the Trustees’ expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances. Forward-looking information in this news release, which includes, among other things, statements relating to the Proposed Transaction (including statements in respect of the execution of the definitive agreement and the consummation of the Proposed Transaction, including the satisfaction of the conditions precedent thereto, in each case, if at all), is necessarily based on a number of opinions, estimates and assumptions that the Fund considered appropriate and reasonable as of the date such statements are made in light of its experience, current conditions and expected future developments, including the assumption that the Proposed Transaction can be completed on acceptable terms and that any conditions precedent can be satisfied.

    Risks and uncertainties related to the Proposed Transaction include, but are not limited to: the possibility that the Proposed Transaction will not be completed on the terms and conditions currently contemplated; failure of the Fund and Fairfax to enter into a definitive agreement for the Proposed Transaction on terms satisfactory to the Fund and Fairfax, or at all; failure of the Fund and Fairfax to obtain the required regulatory, court, stock exchange and unitholder approvals for, or satisfy other conditions to effect, the Proposed Transaction; failure by the independent valuator to deliver a Formal Valuation and Fairness Opinion satisfactory to the Trustees at the time the definitive agreement is entered into; the risk that the Proposed Transaction may involve unexpected costs, liabilities or delays; the risk of a change in general economic conditions; the risk that, prior to the completion of the Proposed Transaction, the business of KRL (as defined below) may experience significant disruptions; the risk that any legal proceedings may be instituted against the Fund or determined adversely to the interests of the Fund; and other risk factors contained in filings made by the Fund with the Canadian securities regulators, including the Fund’s annual information form dated March 25, 2025 and financial statements and related management discussion and analysis for the financial year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain jurisdictions of Canada and available at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Although the Trustees have attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known to them or that they presently believe are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward- looking information. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the Fund’s expectations as of the date of this news release (or as the date they are otherwise stated to be made) and are subject to change after such date. However, the Fund disclaims any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws in Canada. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

    About The Keg Royalties Income Fund

    The Fund is a limited purpose, open-ended trust established under the laws of the Province of Ontario that, through The Keg Rights Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of the Fund, owns certain trademarks and other related intellectual property used by Keg Restaurants Ltd. (“KRL”). Vancouver-based KRL is the leading operator and franchisor of steakhouse restaurants in Canada and has a substantial presence in select regional markets in the United States. KRL has been named the number one restaurant company to work for in Canada in the latest edition of Forbes “Canada’s Best Employers 2025” survey.

    For further information, contact:
    Investor Relations
    Tel: (604) 276-0242
    investorrelations@kegrestaurants.com   https://www.thekeg.com/en/keg-income-fund

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: LPL Financial Welcomes Northern Advisory Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC announced today that 10 financial advisors with Northern Advisory Group have joined LPL Financial’s broker-dealer, Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) and custodial platforms. They reported serving approximately $300 million in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets* and join LPL from Osaic.

    Partners Richard DiTaranto, Brian DiBrino and Jeff Miller, who have a combined eight decades of wealth management experience, teamed up in 2004 to launch Northern Advisory Group. The ensemble practice is headquartered in Fairfield, N.J., and includes fellow financial advisors Anthony Fresella, Daniel Greenwood, Griffin Durand, Robert Kelley, Seamus Nelson, Jaret Mittenthal and Damien DiTaranto — Richard’s son. Together, the group takes a holistic approach to helping their clients work towards their fiscal goals.

    “We really take the time to understand our clients’ fiscal goals — both in the short and long-term — by asking where they would like to be in 10-, 15-, 20-years,” DiBrino said. “Using that information, we put together a customized plan, get our clients’ buy-in and then work with them to make adjustments over the years to help them pursue their financial goals.”

    “Client education is key because we want our clients to understand the process and take an active role in their financial futures,” DiTaranto said. “We want them to ask questions and take a vested interest in how their money is invested. After all, the best client is an educated client.”

    Looking for enhanced service experiences and a more robust technology platform, the Northern Advisory team made the move to LPL after an in-depth due diligence process.

    “It was the campus visit that sealed the deal for me,” DiBrino said. “We had only been there for about 15 minutes when I said, ‘This is the spot for us.’ I was impressed by several things during that visit, such as how it was made clear that we are the client and LPL is here to serve us. I also appreciated learning that 90% of calls are picked up by a real person within 30 seconds and most issues are resolved during that first call. I am confident that partnering with LPL is the right choice for the next phase of our business.”

    DiTaranto added, “With LPL’s technology platform, our clients are going to appreciate the single sign-on, and the service LPL provides is second to none. By moving to LPL, not only will we be better able to serve our clients today, but we can grow our business into something generational — allowing Northern Advisory Group to serve clients for years to come.”

    Scott Posner, LPL Managing Director, Business Development, said, “We welcome the team at Northern Advisory Group and congratulate them on this milestone in the evolution of their practice. As a leading wealth management firm, LPL is committed to delivering innovative technology and comprehensive business solutions to help advisors differentiate their practices and increase value for their clients. We look forward to supporting Northern Advisory Group in this next chapter of their business.”

    Related

    Advisors, learn how LPL Financial can help take your business to the next level.

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports nearly 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.7 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 6 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.

    Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial. Northern Advisory Group and LPL Financial are separate entities.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    *Value approximated based on asset and holding details provided to LPL from end of year, 2024.

    Media Contact: 
    Media.relations@LPLFinancial.com 

    Tracking #730850

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: SHARC Energy Announces Board of Director Changes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SHARC International Systems Inc. (CSE: SHRC) (FSE: IWIA) (OTCQB: INTWF) (“SHARC Energy” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that Fred Andriano has been named Chairman of the Board of Directors (“BOD”) and Executive Officer. Mr. Andriano replaces SHARC Energy’s founder Lynn Mueller as Executive Chairman. Mr. Mueller will remain on the Board as Vice Chairman and Executive Officer of the Company.

    Mr. Andriano has extensive experience and expertise in finance, accounting, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions. He has been in the heating and cooling energy sector for 20 years. He formally was the Vice President of Finance and Administration – NIBE North America for NIBE Industrier AB. Prior to that he was Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary for WaterFurnace International, Inc. Furthermore, he spent 6 years as Chief Financial Officer of a regional M&A firm.

    “I am very appreciative for the opportunity to help guide the Company’s Board and management team as we strategize for expansion and growth. The Company has tremendous products, applications and dedicated team members and it’s time we leveraged their strengths while we continue to build awareness of the opportunities SHARC Energy’s products present to the heat transfer sector,” stated Mr. Andriano.

    Mr. Mueller added, “The additions of Michael as CEO and Fred as Executive Chair marks a significant day in the evolution of SHARC Energy’s maturity,” says Mr. Mueller. “These moves validate SHARC Energy as an emerging player in the industry with superior Wastewater Energy Transfer products and proven executives with successful track records in the thermal energy, heat transfer and hydronic space to augment the team.”

    The appointment will strategically accelerate the Company’s growth and improve its ability to expand its markets, products and geographical reach. The Company anticipates future strategic moves enabling SHARC Energy to grow revenue and improve profitability.

    The Company also has the bittersweet task of announcing the BOD has accepted the retirement and resignation of Eleanor Chiu. Mrs. Chiu has been a director for just shy of six years, consistently adding valued insight, business acumen and astute counsel to both management and the Board. She leaves SHARC Energy as a strong believer and long-term shareholder, holding 5% of the Company.

    “I am pleased to be leaving the BOD in good hands with addition of Fred as Chairman. In the short time that I have known Fred, he brings a strong understanding of the corporate governance policies and procedures needed for a public company to grow and mature. With the additions of Michael and Fred to augment Lynn and Hanspaul, I remain confident in the opportunity SHARC Energy and Wastewater Energy Transfer present,” says Mrs. Chiu.

    “Eleanor has been an important member of the Board and she will be dearly missed. I have leaned on her for nearly six years. She will always be remembered as one of the instrumental members that built the foundation the Company will grow on for years to come. Thank you Eleanor,” stated Mr. Mueller.

    Mr.Andriano will take over Mrs. Chiu role as Chairman of the Audit Committee going forward.

    About SHARC Energy  
    SHARC International Systems Inc. is a world leader in energy recovery from the wastewater we send down the drain every day. SHARC Energy’s systems recycle thermal energy from wastewater, generating one of the most energy-efficient and economical systems for heating, cooling & hot water production for commercial, residential, and industrial buildings along with thermal energy networks, commonly referred to as “District Energy”.

    SHARC Energy is publicly traded in Canada (CSE: SHRC), the United States (OTCQB: INTWF) and Germany (Frankfurt: IWIA) and you can find out more on our SEDAR profile.

    Learn more about SHARC Energy: Website | Investor Page | LinkedIn | YouTube | PIRANHA | SHARC

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

    Fred Andriano
    Chairman of the Board

    The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified using words such as “anticipate”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “intend”, “should”, and similar expressions. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. SHARC Energy’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information because of regulatory decisions, competitive factors in the industries in which the Company operates, prevailing economic conditions, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. SHARC Energy believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the Company’s expectations as of the date hereof and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities legislation. 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MARA Announces Bitcoin Production and Mining Operation Updates for April 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Energized Hash Rate Grew 5.5% to 57.3 EH/s
    Increased BTC Holdings* to 48,237 BTC

    Fort Lauderdale, FL, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MARA Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARA) (“MARA” or the “Company”), a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company that leverages high-intensity compute, such as bitcoin (“bitcoin” or “BTC”) mining, to monetize excess energy and optimize power management, today published unaudited bitcoin production updates for April 2025.

    Management Commentary

    “In April, our production saw a 15% month-over-month decrease in blocks won, as global hashrate had its second largest monthly gain on record and mining difficulty grew 8% from March,” said Fred Thiel, MARA’s chairman and CEO. “Despite these headwinds, our energized hashrate grew 5.5% over the prior month. We completed a 50-megawatt (“MW”) expansion at our fully owned data center in Ohio, bringing total operational capacity to 100 MW, with the site designed to scale up to 200 MW. Additionally, we installed over 12,000 S21 Pro miners at the location.

    “Last month, we fully energized our 25 MW gas-to-power operations across wellheads in North Dakota and Texas. These sites currently provide us with our lowest cost per BTC mined while monetizing excess gas and mitigating methane emissions for the producers.

    “We remain laser-focused on transforming MARA into a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company. We believe this model gives us tighter operational control, improves cost-efficiency, and makes us more resilient to shifts in the broader economy.”

    Operational Highlights and Updates

    Figure 1: Operational Highlights

    Prior Month Comparison   Prior Month Comparison  
    Metric   4/30/2025     3/31/2025     % Δ  
    Number of Blocks Won 1     205       242       (15 )%
    BTC Produced     705       829       (15 )%
    Average BTC Produced per Day     23.5       26.8       (12 )%
    Share of available miner rewards 2     5.1 %     5.8 %     NM  
    Transaction Fees as % of Total 1     1.3 %     1.3 %     NM  
    Energized Hashrate (EH/s) 1     57.3       54.3       5.5 %
    1. These metrics are MARAPool only and do not include blocks won from joint ventures.
    2. Defined as the total amount of block rewards including transaction fees that MARA earned during the period divided by the total amount of block rewards and transaction fees awarded by the Bitcoin network during the period.

    NM – Not Meaningful

    As of April 30, 2025, the Company held a total of 48,237 BTC*. MARA opted not to sell any BTC in April.

    *Includes loaned and collateralized bitcoin

    Investor Notice

    Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks, uncertainties and forward-looking statements described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any other periodic reports that we may file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). If any of these risks were to occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations would likely suffer. In that event, the value of our securities could decline, and you could lose part or all of your investment. The risks and uncertainties we describe are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. In addition, our past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results in the future. See “Forward-Looking Statements” below.

    The operational highlights and updates presented in this press release pertain solely to our BTC mining operations. Detailed information regarding our other operations can be found in our periodic reports filed with the SEC.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this press release are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “will,” “could,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “believe,” “continue,” “target” and similar expressions or variations or negatives of these words are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements related to scaling our data center in Ohio, mitigating methane emissions at our gas-to-power operations in North Dakota and Texas and expected benefits of transforming from an asset-light model into a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations about future events as of the date hereof and involve many risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. Subsequent events and developments, including actual results or changes in our assumptions, may cause our views to change. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements except to the extent required by applicable law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. Our actual results and outcomes could differ materially from those included in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the factors set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, and any other periodic reports that we may file with the SEC.

    About MARA

    MARA (NASDAQ: MARA) is a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company that leverages high-intensity compute, such as bitcoin mining, to monetize excess energy and optimize power management. We are focused on two key priorities: strategically growing by shifting our model toward low-cost energy with more efficient capital deployment and bringing to market a full suite of solutions for data centers and edge inference – including energy management, load balancing and advanced cooling.

    For more information, visit www.mara.com, or follow us on:

    Twitter: @MARAHoldings
    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/maraholdings
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/MARAHoldings
    Instagram: @maraholdingsinc

    MARA Company Contact:
    Telephone: 800-804-1690
    Email: ir@mara.com

    MARA Media Contact:
    Email: marathon@wachsman.com

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