NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: Sword Group: Information on the Payment of the 2024 Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting on 28 April, the Group confirms the payment of a dividend of €2 gross per share.

    The payment schedule is as follows:
    Ex-Date: 30/04/2025 (unchanged date)
    Record Date: 02/05/2025 (date shifted by one day)
    Payment Date: 05/05/2025 (date changed to Monday)

    Explanation of the different deadlines:
    Ex-date: date (in the morning) from which securities are traded without the dividend
    Record date: date (in the evening) taken into account by the financial intermediaries to determine who is entitled to the dividend

    Explanation of the withholding tax:
    As Sword’s registered office is in Luxembourg, there is a 15% withholding tax.
    However, it is possible to be exempt from this withholding tax, as explained below:

    Individual shareholder who is a French tax resident:
    If the shares are not placed on a PEA:
    – The shareholder will benefit from a tax credit in France equal to the amount withheld at source => double taxation is avoided
    – The IFU will mention the amount of the dividend and the amount of the tax credit 

    If the shares are placed on a PEA:
    – The tax credit cannot be refunded since the dividend is not taxed in France

    A shareholder that is a legal entity established in France (with a holding of less than 10% and an acquisition price of less than 1.2 million euros)
    – The shareholder will benefit from a tax credit in France equal to the amount withheld at source => double taxation is avoided

    A shareholder, whether an individual or a legal entity, residing in a State other than France (with a holding of less than 10% and an acquisition price of less than 1.2 million euros)
    – If the double taxation tax treaty between Luxembourg and the State of residence provides for a lower rate of tax withheld at source, the shareholder can file a request for partial or total reimbursement with the Luxembourg tax authorities (form 901bis)
    – Moreover, in accordance with the tax treaty, the shareholder will benefit in his country of residence from a tax credit that is equal to the amount withheld at source => double taxation is avoided

    A shareholder who is a legal entity able to benefit from the European Parent-Subsidiary Directive (+ EEE and Switzerland), that owns or promises to own on the date of the dividend distribution, for at least twelve months, a holding of at least 10%
    or an acquisition price of at least 1.2 million euros
    – Exoneration from tax withheld at source in Luxembourg

    Agenda
    28/04/25: Annual Shareholders Meeting 2024
    24/07/25: Publication of Q2 2025 Revenue

    About Sword Group

    Sword has 3,500+ IT/Digital specialists active in 50+ countries to accompany you in the growth of your organisation in the digital age.

    As a leader in technological and digital transformation, Sword has a solid reputation in complex IT & business project management.

    Sword optimises your processes and enhances your data.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Top California Lender Welcomes New Leadership with Jerry Dean Taking Over

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA MONICA, Calif., April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Top California Lender, a prominent player in the national lending sector, is thrilled to announce that Jerry Dean has taken over as the new leader of the organization. With a robust background in the lending industry, Dean brings extensive experience and a visionary approach to propel the company forward. Alongside this leadership transition, Top California Lender is introducing a dynamic new team to support its growth, featuring experts in finance, technology, and client relations to enhance service delivery. Additionally, the company is pioneering the use of AI for underwriting, leveraging advanced algorithms to streamline loan approvals and improve accuracy, setting a new standard in the industry. The AI system analyzes vast datasets, including credit histories, property valuations, and market trends, to deliver faster, more precise decisions, reducing human bias and processing times by up to 40%. This technology also enables real-time risk assessment and adaptive learning, allowing the system to refine its models based on ongoing market shifts, ensuring a competitive edge and client satisfaction.

    Recently, under Dean’s leadership, Top California Lender closed a significant $14.7 million senior living construction loan in Florida. This financing supports the development of a 136-unit assisted-living and memory care facility, with construction underway and completion anticipated in the near future. The loan highlights Dean’s strategic focus on expanding Top California Lender’s presence in the senior housing sector.

    Top California Lender offers a diverse portfolio of loan programs tailored to meet varied client needs nationwide, including Rehab/Renovation Loans for property upgrades, Construction Loans for new builds, Condo Conversion & Development for transforming properties, Equity Cash-Out for accessing home equity, Land Development & Subdivision for expanding real estate projects, Change of Use for repurposing assets, Bridge Loans for short-term financing, and Commercial Acquisition Loans for business property purchases. The company is also expanding its brokers program, providing brokers with access to its wholesale lending channels to process these loans, ensuring competitive rates and efficient closings for clients. Dean’s leadership marks a transformative chapter for Top California Lender, renowned for its innovative financing solutions and dedication to the national community. Further details about his plans, the new team, the AI underwriting initiative, and the enhanced brokers program will be shared in the coming weeks.

    For more information, please contact:

    Filmon Gebre

    Loan Officer

    Top California Lender

    Info@TopCaliforniaLender.com

    (424) 209 7164

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is backing independence the same as being a nationalist? Not necessarily

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Robin Mann, Reader in Sociology, Bangor University

    Over the past few years, support for Welsh independence has grown in ways not seen before. A recent poll commissioned by YesCymru, a pro-independence campaign group, found that 41% of people who’ve made up their minds on the issue would now vote in favour of independence.

    The striking finding is that the number jumps to 72% among 25-to-34 year olds. Meanwhile older generations, particularly those aged 65 and up, remain firmly in the “no” camp, with 80% opposed.

    This does seem a big shift in public mood. But does it mean Wales is becoming more nationalist? Not exactly.

    The relationship between constitutional attitudes and nationalism is complicated, as research by myself and colleagues shows. Many people back independence for reasons that have less to do with feeling strongly Welsh or waving flags, and more to do with wanting better decision-making closer to home.

    During 2021, as part of a broader research project on Welsh people’s views on the COVID pandemic and vaccination, we spoke to people from different ages, backgrounds and locations. Some were vaccinated, others weren’t. Some had voted in elections while others hadn’t voted in years, if ever.

    Many people we talked to felt the Welsh government had done a better job than Westminster at handling the pandemic. They saw the decisions made in Wales – like keeping stricter rules in place when England relaxed theirs – as more sensible, more caring, and more in line with what they personally wanted from a government. And with that came a confidence that Wales could handle even more control over its own affairs.

    Historically, Welsh nationalism was tightly linked to the Welsh language and culture. Self-government was always a part of the conversation, but not necessarily the main driver. That started changing in the late 20th century.

    In 1979, Wales voted against devolution. In 1997, it narrowly vote in favour. Thereafter, things slowly began to shift – and now, more than 25 years into devolution, support for self-government is the mainstream view. Independence is no longer such a fringe idea.

    Interestingly, younger generations are far more open to it – and many of them aren’t what you’d typically think of as nationalists. They may not speak Welsh or see themselves as “political” in the traditional sense. Their support often comes from practical concerns about the economy, democracy and how decisions are made.

    External events like Brexit have clearly played a role. In fact, the YesCymru campaign was formed just before the EU referendum in 2016. Independence support surged afterwards, especially among Remain voters.

    Many saw the Brexit fallout, as well as austerity, as proof that Westminster didn’t reflect their values or priorities. This showed how disruptive events can reshape the way people see their place within the UK.

    Independence without nationalism?

    One of the more surprising findings in our research – echoed in the 2025 polling – is that support for independence doesn’t always come from people who are politically engaged or pro-devolution. In fact, some support came from people who hadn’t voted in years, or felt completely disillusioned with the political system.

    They expressed their support for independence through statements like: “They all need to go [meaning the Welsh government], but if I pay tax in Wales I want it to stay in Wales and be spent here.”

    We also found a lot of people sitting on the fence. They weren’t against independence, but they had big questions about it. Would it mean isolation? Would it lead to more division?

    One person told us: “I’m a little bit nationalistic, but I didn’t want the UK to leave the EU. So why would I want Wales to leave the UK?” Another said: “I don’t believe in borders, but I do think the Welsh government should run things.”

    These aren’t black-and-white views. People’s feelings about independence – and nationalism – are often full of contradictions. And this reflects the wider truth that ordinary political views are often messy. Most of us don’t live in the extremes, and this is a good thing.

    What’s also worth noting is that nationalism takes many forms. Some people who strongly oppose Welsh independence do so from a very rightwing populist-nationalist perspective, where calls to abolish the Senedd (Welsh parliament) sit alongside demands for hard borders and less immigration. So, the assumption that “independence equals nationalism” isn’t always true – and nor is the reverse.

    Could independence really happen?

    Wales isn’t alone in debating big questions about its future. In places such as Scotland, Catalonia and Flanders, political and economic crises can fuel movements for independence. In all these cases, trust in central government and a desire for more local fiscal control have played a major role.

    For Wales, the question often comes back to the economy. While faith in Wales’s ability to govern is growing, many still worry whether an independent Wales could stand on its own financially. And for a lot of undecided voters, that remains the sticking point. For this reason, granting Wales more powers through devolution might do more to stave off demands for independence than anything else.



    Read more:
    Devolving justice and policing to Wales would put it on par with Scotland and Northern Ireland – so what’s holding it back?

    But the conversation is shifting. Support for independence is no longer just about nationalist grievances. It’s about how people want to be governed, and about trust and responsiveness.

    So, does supporting Welsh independence make you a nationalist? Not necessarily. For many, it’s not about nationalism at all.

    Robin Mann receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the British Academy. He is a Reader in Sociology at Bangor University and also Co-director of the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data (WISERD).

    – ref. Is backing independence the same as being a nationalist? Not necessarily – https://theconversation.com/is-backing-independence-the-same-as-being-a-nationalist-not-necessarily-254354

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Brexit hardened attitudes about the Irish border – and why things might be changing

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Catriona Shelly, Postdoctoral Researcher in Psychology, University of Limerick

    Jonny McCullagh/Shutterstock

    The UK’s decision to leave the EU was a seismic shock in Ireland. In the years following the Belfast/Good Friday agreement, the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic had become less relevant. The peace process reduced the military architecture along the border, while EU membership enabled free movement of goods and people.

    The Brexit referendum reintroduced the possibility of a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic. Attitudes hardened as competing political aspirations for Northern Ireland’s future returned to the forefront. Brexit added layers of complication on to existing polarisations between Unionists, concentrated on protecting Northern Ireland’s place in the UK, and Nationalists, advocating for Irish reunification.

    But new polling from the Irish Times and the Arins project suggests these attitudes may now be changing. Across Ireland – north and south – there is a growing consensus that planning for a potential united Ireland is important, even among those who oppose it.

    Perhaps most notably, even Unionists in Northern Ireland have reported a slight but meaningful move towards accepting possible future reunification.

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    The latest polling shows that acceptance of potential Irish unity has risen from 21% in 2022 to 29% in 2025 among voters in Northern Ireland from a Protestant background. This was the period in which the fallout from Brexit was negotiated, resulting in the Northern Ireland Protocol.

    The protocol is the mechanism governing post-Brexit trade between Ireland, the UK and Europe. Northern Ireland’s unique trade position under the protocol allows it to retain access to both Irish and EU markets, which have become increasingly important to economies on both sides of the border.

    Data shows Northern Ireland has experienced economic benefits, including increased exports, in the years since the protocol was implemented. These economic benefits, along with the damaging prospect of a hard border on the island, may have made the idea of reunification more palatable – or at least, less objectionable.

    Divided society

    Though it has had a fragile peace since the Belfast/Good Friday agreement, Northern Ireland remains a divided society. Brexit reignited tensions over Northern Ireland’s future, leading to social and political unrest.

    Research, including our own, shows that when people feel threatened, they often experience a “rally around the flag” effect. Brexit created real fears on both sides, strengthening both Unionist and Nationalist sentiments. Given this, the attitude change reflected in the new polling is all the more remarkable.

    Social and political attitudes have always been at the heart of the conflict in Northern Ireland. Since the partition of Ireland in 1922, people have defined their national and political identity based on their attitudes to the border.

    For Unionists in Northern Ireland, who are often culturally Protestant, the border affirms their British identity, retaining their connection to the UK and entitlement to claim Britishness.

    For Nationalists, most of whom are culturally Catholic, the border was a divide imposed illegitimately by the British. The border undermined their claim to Irishness. The prolonged conflict in Northern Ireland, known as The Troubles, was driven as much by sentiment and symbolic identity concerns as by political realities.

    Today, Unionists and Nationalists continue to hold opposing views on Northern Ireland’s future. However, evidence of attitude convergence suggests the extreme identity positions and polarisation associated with the Brexit result may have receded.

    Now that the immediate threats surrounding Brexit have ebbed away, it would seem a more inclusive and constructive conversation about the island’s future may be possible.

    Learning from Brexit’s mistakes

    Clearly, acceptance that reunification might happen does not necessarily equate to support. However, it does indicate a growing recognition that constitutional change is possible and needs careful consideration.

    For many, the mechanics of the Brexit referendum have been part of the problem. The 2016 referendum appeared to offer a simple choice: Leave or Remain. But there was little clarity on what Brexit would actually mean in practice.

    The recent research from the Arins/Irish Times project suggests the attitudes towards potential Irish unity are partly driven by a desire to avoid the chaos of Brexit, and instead plan ahead.

    In Northern Ireland, political debates are often reduced to zero-sum, win-lose arguments. This “us v them” narrative can obscure complexity and entrench division.

    There is clearly a need for more inclusive and nuanced debates and forward planning. In practice, this means exploring the different possible models of a united Ireland – and understanding what each would mean – well before any referendum is held.

    The Irish Republic has a well-developed political system to support referenda and a citizens’ assembly model that has been lauded as a solution to the democratic deficit that blights so many western nations. This model has proven effective in addressing complex and sensitive issues, notably in the 2018 referendum on abortion. Deliberation through the Citizens’ Assembly helped shape political decision-making and influenced the question posed in the ensuing referendum.

    North and south, there is agreement that any potential move toward Irish unity must include considered and informed planning for future constitutional change.

    Given its long and troubled past, planning will need to be careful and diligent to ensure Ireland remains at peace. But the recent polling suggests that, despite its many flaws, Brexit may actually have paved the way for a more constructive and less antagonistic conversation about Northern Ireland’s future.

    Catriona Shelly’s PhD was funded by Research Ireland.

    Orla Muldoon receives funding from the European Research Council (agreement 884927).

    – ref. How Brexit hardened attitudes about the Irish border – and why things might be changing – https://theconversation.com/how-brexit-hardened-attitudes-about-the-irish-border-and-why-things-might-be-changing-250956

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Lagarde presents the latest monetary policy decisions – 17 April 2025

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Today our Governing Council decided on monetary policy, determining what’s needed to return inflation to our 2% goal in a timely manner.

    Listen to President Christine Lagarde present today’s decisions. The statement also covers:
    • how the economy is performing
    • how we expect prices to develop
    • the risks to the economic outlook
    • the dynamics behind financial and monetary conditions

    Our monetary policy statement at a glance, 17 April 2025 https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/press_conference/visual-mps/2025/html/mopo_statement_explained_april.en.html

    Christine Lagarde, Luis de Guindos: Monetary policy statement, 17 April 2025 https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/press_conference/monetary-policy-statement/2025/html/ecb.is250417~091c625eb6.en.html

    Monetary policy decisions, 17 April 2025 https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/pr/date/2025/html/ecb.mp250417~42727d0735.en.html

    Combined monetary policy decisions and statement, 17 April 2025 chrome-https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/press_conference/monetary-policy-statement/shared/pdf/ecb.ds250417~e613e58d41.en.pdf?95a8c391ee55936072302d86e709bf0e

    European Central Bank
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/home/html/index.en.html

    You can also listen on all major podcast platforms.

    Published and recorded during our press conference on 17 April 2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgm5H6UUbS0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Announces Start of Bridge Replacement and Traffic Flow Improvement Project on I-95 in West Haven

    Source: US State of Connecticut


    (WEST HAVEN, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has begun construction on a major project on Interstate 95 in West Haven to replace two aging bridges and improve traffic flow in the area.

    The bridges, which are each more than 70 years old, carry I-95 over 1st Avenue and the Metro-North Railroad train tracks. The new structures are designed to have a minimum service life of 75 years, significantly improving long-term safety and reliability.

    In addition to replacing the bridges, the project includes extending the southbound lane from Exit 44 to create a continuous travel lane, which will ultimately serve as an exit-only lane for Exit 43. The goal of these improvements is to reduce congestion, enhance traffic flow, and improve safety in the region.

    The $136.5 million project is funded by a mix of 90% federal funds and 10% state funds. This project has a labor force of approximately 100 workers. Construction is expected to be completed in phases by year-end 2027.

    “This project is a long-term investment in public safety and mobility, not only for West Haven but for the entire region,” Governor Lamont said. “Beyond improving infrastructure, it’s also creating good-paying jobs that support local families and strengthen Connecticut’s workforce. Thank you to Connecticut Department of Transportation crews and contractors who are delivering on these critical projects across the state.”

    “Replacing these aging bridges and revamping the interchange will ease the daily commute for more than 142,000 drivers on I-95,” CTDOT Deputy Commissioner Laoise King said. “By tackling this now, we’re avoiding future disruptions to highway and rail travel. Thanks to support from Governor Lamont, Metro-North Railroad, and our federal and state partners, we’re making significant progress modernizing Connecticut’s bridge infrastructure.”

    “Over $122 million in federal funding will help replace two decaying, deteriorating and undersized bridges in West Haven, providing relief to the tens of thousands of commuters who drive across them every day,” Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “These projects reduce congestion, improve traffic flow on I-95, and most importantly, enhance commuter safety. I’ll continue fighting to deliver investments that make Connecticut’s roads more secure.”

    “Replacing these 70-year-old bridges is long overdue, and I’m glad to see this project finally moving forward,” Senator Chris Murphy said. “This is a smart federal investment that will make I-95 safer, reduce commutes, and boost Connecticut’s economy, all while creating good-paying jobs in West Haven.”

    “Today marks a major step forward not just for West Haven, but for every traveler who depends on I-95 to get to work, to school, or home to their families,” U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “These bridge replacements are more than concrete and steel – they are the result of years of hard work, advocacy, and persistent efforts that I’ve championed to bring critical federal resources back to our community. I fought for this investment because I believe in safer roads, smarter infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our residents. By widening and modernizing this vital interchange, we’re not only easing the daily burden of traffic, but we’re also laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient transportation network that will support economic growth for generations. I’m proud to have led the charge in securing this funding and delivering real results for our region’s future.”

    For most of 2025, traffic is not expected to be disrupted from this project because the initial work includes construction on the foundation for the new bridges on the ground level at 1st Avenue and at the railroad crossing underneath the highway.

    Later in 2025, the northbound entrance ramp at Interchange 43 will close, with a detour routed through nearby state roads. The project will progress in stages through 2027, with three lanes of traffic maintained in each direction during daytime hours.

    For detailed information on this project and to subscribe to construction updates via email, visit i95westhaven.com.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Nine Appointments to Various Boards and Commissions

    Source: US State of Missouri

    APRIL 17, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced nine appointments to various boards and commissions.

    Scott Boswell Sr., of Kansas City, was appointed to the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners.

    Dr. Boswell is a recently retired chairman of Commerce Trust and currently serves as a professor for the Executive Master of Business Administration program at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC). In addition to his professional career, he is an active member of several boards and organizations including the Heart of America Council for the Boy Scouts of America, the UMKC Board of Trustees, the Kansas City Symphony Board, and more. Dr. Boswell earned his Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago, and Bachelor of Arts from Westminster College.

    Alphonso Hogan II, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.

    Mr. Hogan has served as a police officer with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department since 2015. Prior to entering into law enforcement, he served in the United States Air Force, earning a rank of E-3 Airman 1st Class before his honorable discharge. Hogan is a legal board member and representative of the St. Louis Police Officers Association. He earned his Missouri Peace Officer license in 2008.

    Thomas Leasor, of Wentzville, was appointed to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.

    Dr. Leasor is the executive director of the Eastern Missouri Police Academy, overseeing the training of police officer recruits and continued education courses for current police officers as well. He is also a Subject Matter Expert for the Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission. Dr. Leasor worked in law enforcement before 25 years before retiring and later assuming his current role. He currently sits on the Eastern Missouri Peer Support Council and Lindenwood University Criminal Justice Advisory Board. Dr. Leasor holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Leadership from Maryville University, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Lindenwood University.

    Tracey Lewis, of Kansas City, was reappointed to the Missouri Housing Development Commission.

    Mr. Lewis is the president and chief executive officer of Economic Development Corporation. Previously, he served as the senior vice president at the Commerce Trust Company. Lewis was previously appointed to the Missouri Housing Development Commission in 2019. Lewis also sits on the boards of the Truman Medical Center and SchoolSmartKC. Mr. Lewis earned a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications from Boston College.

    Pat McCuthen, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Mr. McCuthen is a captain at the Jefferson City Police Department with over 20 years of experience in police instruction, leadership, and operational management. He is highly active in his community, serving on the Council for Drug-Free Youth, Community Resource Counseling Committee, Jefferson City Day Care Center board, Disproportionate Minority Committee, and the Jefferson City Youth Hockey Club board. Mr. McCuthen holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Columbia College and a graduate certificate from the University of Virginia School of Public Safety. He also earned his Missouri Peace Officer license in 1998.

    Paul Ogier, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Health and Educational Facilities Authority of the State of Missouri.

    Mr. Ogier currently serves as a board member of LeadingAge Missouri and as treasurer of Nursing Facility Agency Corporation (NFAC). Prior to retirement, Mr. Ogier spent over 40 years in the finance industry. He previously served as chief financial officer for Lutheran Senior Services in Brentwood. Mr. Ogier holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Missouri State University.

    Bryan Strider, of Richmond, was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority.

    Mr. Strider is a fifth-generation farmer and business development manager for Holganix. With deep roots in the farming community and a career built on  hands-on experience, Strider’s focuses on advancing sustainable farming practices and helping make farmers for profitable and resilient. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural science from Northwest Missouri State University.

    William “Billy” Thiel, of Richmond, was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority.

    Mr. Thiel is a partner of more than 40 years in a family farm that produces corn and soybeans. Thiel was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority in 2016. He is a past president of the Missouri Corn Growers Association and has been active in the National Corn Growers Association. Thiel also served as chairman of the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, is a director on the Board of the Rural Electric Association, and a member of the Mid-Missouri Energy Board.

    Tom Werdenhause, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

    Mr. Werdenhause previously served as the general manager and chief executive officer for Three Rivers Electric Cooperative prior to his retirement in 2019. He is the current president of the State Technical College of Missouri Foundation, and past president of the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Central Electric Power Cooperative, and Missouri Institute of Cooperatives. Mr. Werdenhause earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Central Missouri State University. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: E.L.F. BEAUTY SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuits Against e.l.f. Beauty, Inc. – ELF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW ORLEANS, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until May 5, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in securities class action lawsuits against e.l.f. Beauty, Inc. (“ELF” or the “Company”) (NYSE: ELF), if they purchased the Company’s securities between May 25, 2023 and February 6, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”). These actions are pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.

    Get Help

    ELF investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-elf/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

    About the Lawsuits

    ELF and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

    On November 20, 2024, Muddy Waters Research reported that the Company had materially overstated revenue over the past three quarters; that in Q2 FY24, it realized its growth narrative was in trouble as its inventory built; that it then began reporting inflated revenue and profits resulting in its reported inventory also appearing materially inflated; and that the Company concealed its inventory challenges from investors by falsely attributing its rising inventory levels to supposed changes in its sourcing practices rather than the true cause insufficient sales. On this news, the price of ELF’s shares fell $2.71 per share, or 2.23%, to close at $119.00 per share on November 20, 2024.

    On February 6, 2025, the Company released its fiscal Q3 2025 results and provided fiscal 2025 outlook that confirmed the weaknesses identified in the report previously issued by Muddy Waters, including softer consumption trends and slower new product launches. On this news, Elf’s stock price fell $17.36 per share, or 19.62%, to close at $71.13 per share on February 7, 2025.

    The first-filed case is Rottman v. e.l.f. Beauty, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-2316. A subsequent case, Boston Retirement System v. e.l.f. Beauty, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-3167, expanded the Class Period.

    About ClaimsFiler

    ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.

    To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The hidden health risks of lip fillers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jim Frame, Professor of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Anglia Ruskin University

    wedmoments.stock/Shutterstock

    Plump, pouty lips are everywhere – from social media filters to celebrity red carpets. But behind the glossy aesthetic of lip fillers lies a growing concern among medical professionals.

    While increasing numbers of people in the UK – often young women – are opting for dermal fillers to achieve a fuller look without surgery, the rise of overfilled “trout pouts” and stiff “duck lips” has sparked a wave of alarm, even among those who might typically support cosmetic treatments.

    Lip fillers are far from risk-free – and in some cases, the health consequences are permanent.

    Unlike surgical procedures, lip fillers are not legally considered medical treatments. That means they are largely unregulated, and in many cases, are being injected by people with little or no medical training.

    This is a problem, because lips are delicate and highly mobile. They contain very little natural fat and rely on a ring of tiny muscles to express everything from joy to concern. Injecting too much filler, or using the wrong kind, can interfere with these muscles – leaving the lips stiff, unnatural, or even immobile.

    While some patients seek lip fillers for genuine medical reasons, such as facial palsy or disfigurement, these are exceptions. For most, the health risks can outweigh the cosmetic benefits.

    What are fillers made of?

    The substances used in lip fillers have changed over time. Older materials such as liquid silicone were eventually phased out due to serious complications, including scarring and migration of the product to other parts of the body.

    Today, most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) – a substance that naturally exists in our bodies, particularly in connective tissue. HA attracts water, giving the skin volume and keeping it hydrated. As we age, our natural levels of HA decrease, which is why skin becomes drier and loses firmness.

    The HA used in fillers is either extracted from animal tissue, such as rooster combs, or produced synthetically using bacteria. While this modern version is safer than older fillers, it still carries risks including allergic reactions, reactivation of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), infections and inflammation.

    There have also been rare, but severe, cases of vascular complications such as blindness and tissue death, when fillers accidentally enter blood vessels.

    The risk to kidneys

    Less widely known – but equally concerning – is how repeat filler use may affect internal organs, particularly the kidneys.

    Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skin plumper – it also plays a role in the immune system. When the body detects inflammation, such as from repeated filler injections, it can respond by producing HA in the kidneys. This triggers a chain reaction: first, the kidneys produce high-molecular weight HA, which increases inflammation. Later, they switch to low-molecular weight HA, which reduces inflammation but causes fibrosis, or scarring of the tissue.

    This double-edged response has been linked to chronic kidney disease and, in severe cases, even renal failure. Researchers are still exploring these links, but the risks become more significant with each repeated injection – especially in people who are genetically or medically vulnerable.

    HA can also contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys. These can lead to kidney stones and further tissue damage, potentially causing lifelong complications.

    Who should avoid lip fillers?

    Given these risks, some people should approach fillers with extreme caution – or avoid them entirely. These include people with a history of kidney problems or allergic reactions to filler ingredients, recurrent cold sores, autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes or blood clotting disorders, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

    Despite the risks, lip fillers remain widely accessible and heavily promoted – particularly to young people influenced by social media trends. Many undergo these treatments without fully understanding what they’re putting into their bodies.

    So, what needs to change? First, better regulation. If lip filler injections were treated as medical procedures, stricter controls could help reduce botched treatments and serious complications.

    Second, more education. Patients need to understand that just because something is “non-surgical” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Fillers are still foreign substances being injected into the body. They come with risks – and these risks can increase over time.

    Lip fillers can offer subtle, beautiful enhancements when used sparingly and professionally. But when misused or overused, they can lead to lasting disfigurement, loss of function, and even serious internal health issues like kidney damage.

    Beauty trends should never come at the cost of your health.

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

    – ref. The hidden health risks of lip fillers – https://theconversation.com/the-hidden-health-risks-of-lip-fillers-254433

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI-controlled fighter jets may be closer than we think — and would change the face of warfare

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arun Dawson, PhD Candidate, Department of War Studies, King’s College London

    F-35 Lightning II combat jet. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Darlene Seltmann

    Could we be on the verge of an era where fighter jets take flight without pilots – and are controlled by AI? US R Adm Michael Donnelly recently said that an upcoming combat jet could be the navy’s last one with an pilot in the cockpit. That marks a striking, if not entirely surprising, shift in thinking about the future of aerial warfare.

    The US Navy is not alone. Other programmes to develop next generation fighter jets are also touting uncrewed options as a distinct possibility.

    However, we have been here before. Senior leaders in the US Navy said they believed the last crewed fighter jet had been procured in 2015. As far back as 1957, premature obituaries were being written for the fighter pilot era. So is there anything different now?

    The ability of a fighter jet to manoeuvre, accelerate, and maintain high speeds, crucial for air combat, is called kinematic performance. Estimates are as high as 80% on how much pilots reduce kinematic performance. Though this figure may be disputed, there is no question that uncrewed aircraft enjoy several key advantages.

    Without the need for life support systems such as ejection seats and oxygen supplies, these aircraft can perform in ways that are beyond the scope of piloted aircraft. But additional trends are pushing militaries to reconsider the role of the human pilot altogether.

    Systems enabled by artificial intelligence (AI) are already demonstrating superior performance in military exercises. In existing remotely piloted aircraft, a human operator remains in control. This model is known as “human-in-the-loop”. AI is now enabling the possibility of human-on-the-loop (where humans take a step back, supervising and intervening if necessary) and even “human-out-of-the-loop” systems (in which AI selects and engages targets autonomously).

    The latter category, while controversial, may offer decisive advantages. In scenarios where milliseconds matter, a fully autonomous system could outperform any human operator, to the extent that senior defence leaders have expressed a willingness to trust AI with lethal decision-making under certain conditions. Others add that autonomous systems could adhere more rigorously to the laws of armed conflict compared with a human operator.

    Unpiloted combat jets also offer potential financial savings. Fighter jets are expensive to build, operate and maintain, not least because of the training and equipment needed to support pilots. A 2011 study found that the life cycle cost of a surveillance drone was roughly half that of a comparable piloted platform. And cheaper aircraft are important because of the likely losses which will be inflicted on air forces in the event of a conflict with Russia or China.

    Another advantage of fully autonomous aircraft is risk mitigation. As Nato militaries grapple with a shortage of trained pilots for potential conflicts between states, uncrewed systems offer a way to restore the balance without putting lives at risk of death or capture.

    An F-16 Fighting Falcon undergoes modifications as part of the Venom autonomous fighter jet programme at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
    US Air Force / Samuel King Jr

    Therefore, one option for militaries is to expand the use of remotely piloted aircraft – drones similar to those deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Crucially, this would ensure humans maintain control over weapons use. The only difference with the present would be in making these systems the backbone of the fleet, rather than supplementary systems struggling to operate in hostile airspace. This would require upgrading them with state-of-the-art technologies like stealth. This helps fighters jets reduce their chances of being detected by the enemy’s radar and infrared (heat) sensors.

    A step up from this would be autonomous combat aircraft, carrying the advantages of on- or off-the-loop technologies. The US Air Force’s Project Venom is training AI in modified F-16 jets for eventual transfer to drones. These drones will operate alongside crewed aircraft, as part of mixed human and machine teams. But if this AI software was retained on the F-16s (or transferred to more advanced fighter jets), it could produce a squadron of autonomous jets just as capable as those piloted by humans.

    A more radical idea is to forgo traditional fighter jets altogether. Proponents of this vision imagine swarms of low-cost, expendable drones working together to overwhelm enemy defences. While current drones have limitations in range, payload, and labour requirements, true “swarming” could change the equation.



    Read more:
    How a new wave of fighter jets could transform aerial combat

    Current limitations

    So what is stopping militaries from pressing ahead with these options? A few things. AI isn’t ready, yet. Machine learning – a subset of AI where algorithms learn from experience – underpins all this. But it still struggles with the inherent ambiguity and creativity of war. Simply putting tyres on an aircraft can thwart computer vision – the field of AI that allows computers to interpret images and videos. So training AI to operate in the full range of possible combat situations is a mammoth task. In the words of one air force commander, “robotified warfare…is centuries away”.

    The US military has used AI agents to pilot the X-62A Vista aircraft.
    USAF / Kyle Brasier

    Another issue concerns communications, since remotely operated drone systems, especially interconnected, swarming ones, need data links. Given how much adversaries are investing in jamming these signals, designs may be pushed in opposite directions: either keeping a pilot onboard or embracing autonomy so the aircraft can keep fighting, even if it is cut off.

    Yet the real limit may be a fear of crossing the Rubicon. While the US and its allies have a de facto “no first use” policy on fully autonomous weapons, the demands of warfare against an enemy willing to use such systems may erode these norms.

    So, the navy’s statement is a warning: the age of the human fighter pilot might be ending. But it’s the next war that could make that decision for us.

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

    – ref. AI-controlled fighter jets may be closer than we think — and would change the face of warfare – https://theconversation.com/ai-controlled-fighter-jets-may-be-closer-than-we-think-and-would-change-the-face-of-warfare-254447

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister told to leave Portsmouth out of reorganisation plans

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    In a letter to Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution Jim McMahon, Cllr Steve Pitt reiterated Portsmouth City Council’s view that it is already a sustainable organisation and should not be required to be part of the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation programme which is mainly aimed at two-tier council areas or failing authorities.

    Cllr Pitt said: “The government is arguing we are too small and can be more financially stable through Local Government Reorganisation but there is no evidence for that. We have disproved their arguments and continue to tell Government that Portsmouth City Council does not need to be part of any reorganisation.

    “Currently Portsmouth is in a better position financially than many other councils and we have significant concerns about what new councils would inherit, given the eye-watering deficits experienced by other local authorities, notably Hampshire County Council with its £136m forecast deficit for 2026-27. I understand the Government’s desire to have unitary councils but Portsmouth is already a sustainable unitary so should be left alone.”

    The letter also addresses concerns the Government could force the city to become part of a larger area. It sets out that any reorganisation would need to be based on the areas that residents use as a community when living their lives, whether that be for work, leisure, education, shopping or anything else. The view is a minimum of four council areas would be required to cover the areas currently under Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council.

    Portsmouth City Council has stated if forced to meet the Government’s target of a 500,000 population, it’s preference would be to combine with Gosport, Fareham and Havant council areas, but consideration should also be given to the immediate areas bordering this.

    Cllr Pitt added: “The area covered by Portsmouth, Southampton and Hampshire is huge and needs a minimum of four separate councils to support residents but this should really be looking at where communities exist and how best they are supported. People don’t live their lives within council boundaries drawn on a map decades ago and we need to make sure, if Government forces change on us, it is done in a way that best meets residents needs based on the areas they identify with and use.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces 39 Jobs as Concrete Manufacturer Selects Randolph County for New Plant

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces 39 Jobs as Concrete Manufacturer Selects Randolph County for New Plant

    Governor Stein Announces 39 Jobs as Concrete Manufacturer Selects Randolph County for New Plant
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced that Gillespie Precast will establish a new manufacturing plant in Randolph County that will create 39 jobs. The company, a leading producer of custom precast concrete, will invest $10 million in Asheboro.

    “North Carolina offers manufacturing companies like Gillespie Precast an outstanding place to do business,” said Governor Stein. “We’re the number one manufacturing state in the Southeast thanks to our skilled, well-trained workforce.”

    Gillespie Precast is a fifth-generation family-owned company with headquarters in Chestertown, Maryland. It manufactures a wide range of concrete products used in different industrial applications, such as box culverts, utility vaults, and custom walls. Precast concrete is an engineered construction product produced by casting concrete in a reusable mold or “form” which is then cured in a controlled environment, transported to a construction site, and maneuvered into place. The company’s project in Randolph County will establish a manufacturing operation to produce precast concrete wet and dry utility vaults, manholes, catch basins, box culverts and other custom structures. The new facility will allow the company to better serve customers in northeast, mid-Atlantic, and southern markets in North America.

    “The executive team targeted several sites both in Virginia and North Carolina for possible expansion,” said Frank Sisk, Director of Business Development for Gillespie Precast. “The search led us to Asheboro, and once we walked the property, we knew this was going to be the place we would establish our southern base of operations.”  

    “The Gillespie family has been successful for over a century by providing quality products to the markets we serve,” Sisk continued. “But it has been the exceptional service we provide our contractor partners that sets us apart from the competition. We believe that North Carolina and Randolph County, in particular, share the same foundational principles of family, quality, and service to our communities as Gillespie Precast and we look forward to being a generational benefit to the state.”

    “Manufacturers like Gillespie Precast create durable, family-sustaining jobs in communities large and small,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “With our infrastructure, workforce, and state and local partnerships, manufacturers can find the right place to invest and create jobs in North Carolina.”

    Although wages will vary depending on the position, the average salary for the new jobs will be $64,154. The current average wage in Randolph County is $49,355.

    A performance-based grant of $120,000 from the One North Carolina Fund to Gillespie Precast NC LLC will help facilitate the company’s project into Randolph County. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require a matching grant from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

    “We enthusiastically welcome Gillespie Precast to Asheboro and Randolph County, we believe this company will experience remarkable success in our community,” said N.C. Representative Neal Jackson. “These employment opportunities and private-sector investment will further invigorate our region’s economy.”

    “Successful economic development projects take sustained and focused effort from a wide variety of state, regional, and local partners,” said N.C. Senator David Craven, Jr. “I appreciate the hard work from the great folks that helped us reach today’s great announcement from Gillespie Precast, and we will continue to support the company as they establish operations in Randolph County.”

    Partnering with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, the Commerce Department’s Division of Workforce Solutions, Randolph County, and the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation. 

    Apr 17, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: In-house audit review results

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The term ‘in-house audit’ refers to an auditor who works for a firm, or network firm, that also provides services like accounting or administration to the same self-managed super fund (SMSF) clients.

    Since 1 January 2020, auditors have not been allowed to perform in-house audits unless:

    It is hard for firms to meet these rules, demonstrating the ‘routine or mechanical’ test is difficult due to the professional judgment involved. When we review auditors, we contact SMSF trustees to check their role in preparing the funds accounts and statements.

    In a recent review using data matching we focused on auditors who still perform in-house audits. Our risk assessment shows around 800 auditors might still be doing in-house audits.

    This financial year, we reviewed 30 auditors suspected of doing in-house audits. As a result of these reviews:

    • 14 auditors were referred to ASIC
    • 6 auditors were deregistered voluntarily
    • 8 auditors received education
    • 2 auditors were compliant.

    Since 1 July 2021, we have referred 42 auditors to ASIC for various reasons including doing in-house audits, this was 32% of all referrals. In March 2024, ASIC released a statementExternal Link detailing the actions taken against 15 of the 42 auditors we referred.

    Firms must follow independence requirements when planning their structure and their audit engagements. They should not rely on one referral source for their fees. ASIC suspended three high-volume SMSF auditorsExternal Link linked to an SMSF administration provider for not considering these factors.

    Looking for the latest news for SMSFs? – You can stay up to date by visiting our SMSF newsroom and subscribingExternal Link to our monthly SMSF newsletter.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Woman Sentenced To 7 Years’ Imprisonment For Wire Fraud And Money Laundering In Connection With Embezzlement Of Funds From Her Employer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rhonda Rochelle Canidate, age 49, of Greensboro, North Carolina, was sentenced on April 15, 2025, to 84 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Kelli M. Neary for wire fraud and money laundering, arising from Canidate’s scheme to embezzle funds from her employer between 2021 and 2022. 

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, between March 2021 and July 2022, Canidate was employed as an accounting specialist at Henry Molded Products Company (“Henry Molded”) in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Between October 2021 and June 2022, Canidate entered false payment entries for former Henry Molded employees into Henry Molded’s third-party payroll software, causing the software to issue direct deposit payments from Henry Molded’s bank account to bank accounts controlled by Canidate in the name of the former employees. This fraud not only financially injured Henry Molded, but it also harmed the former employees by creating an overpayment for tax purposes.       

    “The role of IRS Criminal Investigation becomes even more important in embezzlement and fraud cases due to the complex financial transactions that can take time to unravel,” stated Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office. “The federal tax laws are normally violated in these cases which can add to additional jail time. As we often see, the victims are not only the taxpayers, but also the individuals and entities who suffer the financial harm.”

    Judge Neary further ordered Canidate to pay restitution in the amount of $480,033.12.

    The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant United States Attorney David C. Williams is prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: EMGS – Vessel activity and multi-client sales update for the first quarter 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (the “Company” or “EMGS”) releases information on vessel activity and multi-client sales during the quarter approximately 4-5 working days after the close of each quarter. The Company defines vessel utilisation as the percentage of the vessel charter period spent on proprietary or multi-client data acquisition. Downtime (technical or maritime), mobilisation, steaming, and some standby activities are not included in the utilisation rate.  

    At the end of the first quarter 2025 the Company had one vessel on charter, the Atlantic Guardian. The Atlantic Guardian completed a proprietary survey in India in the quarter and started mobilisation for a second proprietary survey in India.

    The utilization for the first quarter was 35% compared with 27% for the first quarter 2024. 

    EMGS had one vessel in operation and recorded 3.0 vessel months in the quarter. In the first quarter 2024, the Company recorded 3.0 vessel months.

    Multi-client revenues in the first quarter
    The Company expects to record approximately USD 150 thousand in multi-client late sales in the first quarter of 2025.

    EMGS will publish its first quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday 14 May 2025 prior to 07:30 local time (Norway). A recorded presentation will also be made available over the Internet. To access the presentation, please go to the Company’s homepage (www.emgs.com) and follow the link.

    Contact
    Anders Eimstad, Chief Financial Officer, +47 948 25 836

    This information is published in accordance with the Norwegian Securities Trading Act § 5-12.

    About EMGS
    EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company’s services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give explorationists a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. CSEM technology can also be used to detect the presence of marine mineral deposits (primarily Seabed Massive Sulphides) and EMGS believes that the technology can also be used to estimate the mineral content of such deposits. The Company is undertaking early-stage initiatives to position itself in this future market.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Margarita Finance launches a first of its kind AI Investment assistant ‘Bartender’ to facilitate investing in DeFi

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Margarita Finance, a next-gen DeFi platform, is proud to introduce the AI Bartender — a smart, conversational trading assistant designed to make decentralized finance (DeFi) radically easier and more accessible for everyone.

    Built natively on Solana and powered by Wormhole, the AI Bartender allows users to seamlessly trade, swap, and earn across chains without complexity.

    What is the Margarita AI Bartender?

    The AI Bartender is a powerful yet intuitive DeFi assistant that allows users to:

    • Request an investment product based on their preferred assets, risk and yield
    • Reduce the complexities of investing in DeFi
    • Bridge across other chains via Wormhole’s integration

    “We’re building a future where trading DeFi is as simple as going to order a zesty Margarita” said Margarita Co-Founder Matthias Wyss. “The AI Bartender breaks down the barriers that have kept many out of DeFi.”

    To mark the occasion of crossing 10,000 signups and 10,000 X followers, Margarita Finance is hosting a $10,000 “AI Bartender a Signup Event” giving early users the chance to test the AI Bartender, trade on-chain, and earn rewards. Users can participate here:

    The team secured a $1M in pre-seed round in late 2024 with backing from top-tier VCs and angels including:

    Jump Crypto
    Solana Ventures
    G20
    Tomahawk
    And many others

    They are currently raising a $4M seed round from top tier VCs, and are exploring a TGE for their native $MARG token in Q3.

    Margarita’s AI Bartender is one of the first real-world products to deeply integrate Wormhole for seamless crosschain access. Users can interact with DeFi apps across Solana, Ethereum, Arbitrum, and beyond — all from one intuitive interface.

    To learn more about Margarita Finance, join their Telegram, and follow these useful links:
    Website
    Twitter/X
    Telegram
    Zealy Quests

    Contact Info: Matthias Wyss
    Email: matthias@margarita.finance

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Leads Legislation to Protect Second Amendment Rights of Law-Abiding Renters and Tenants

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    HULL, IOWA – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) introduced the Preserving Rights Of Tenants by Ensuring Compliance To (PROTECT) the Second Amendment Act. This legislation would secure the Second Amendment rights of Americans who live in rental properties whose landlords receive financial assistance from the federal government. 

    More specifically, this proposal ensures that landlords and rental property managers cannot unlawfully restrict firearm ownership of tenants.

    “The right of Iowans to keep and bear arms is enshrined in our Constitution and shall not be infringed. These constitutional protections must be strongly defended and certainly do not cease to exist for gun owners living in rental properties,” said Rep. Feenstra. “My PROTECT the Second Amendment Act ensures that landlords or rental property managers who receive federal financial assistance at taxpayer expense cannot unlawfully restrict Americans from exercising their constitutional rights. As a strong advocate of the Second amendment, I will always defend the right of Iowans to keep and bear arms and support law-abiding gun owners.”

    “The right of law-abiding Americans to keep firearms in their homes for self-defense has been a fundamental freedom since our nation’s founding and has been reaffirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA). “No one should be forced to give up this right, especially when a landlord or property manager is receiving federal tax dollars. The NRA applauds Representative Feenstra for introducing this important legislation that protects the right to keep and bear arms.”

    The PROTECT the Second Amendment Act has three main objectives, which include:

    1. Protecting tenants’ rights to lawfully own a firearm within federally assisted rental housing;
    2. Allowing the lawful transport of firearms through common areas when entering and exiting the property; and
    3. Preventing property managers and landlords who accept federal assistance from prohibiting or discriminating against tenants’ constitutional right to own a firearm.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Suppliers invited to shape Ousewem legacy

    Source: City of York

    Suppliers are being invited to take part in shaping the legacy of the Ousewem programme through a new project.

    City of York Council is inviting suppliers to take part in a unique opportunity to help deliver a flagship legacy project for the Ousewem programme – a York River Walk that will connect people with the rivers that shape the city, and the nature-based solutions that are helping to protect it.

    This request for quotations (RFQ) seeks experienced partners to lead on a public-facing engagement project that captures and communicates Ousewem’s impact in York and its upstream catchments. The result will be a lasting feature that brings to life the role of natural flood management (NFM), land use, and community collaboration in building a more climate-resilient future.

    The focus of the RFQ is community engagement, with the option for suppliers to also propose creative elements. This could include interpretation, signage, trails or installations to help residents, schoolchildren, visitors and policy audiences explore the links between rivers, land and resilience. The work may be delivered by a single supplier or by a partnership team.

    The York River Walk builds on Ousewem’s innovative flood resilience project, identifying and delivering NbS, including NFM, to reduce flood risk in vulnerable North Yorkshire communities, spanning Yorkshire’s Swale, Ure, Nidd and Ouse (SUNO) catchments. It is designed to leave a legacy for the city – raising awareness, inspiring future action and anchoring Ousewem’s long-term impact.

    This project is part of a wider effort to engage the York community in river learning and flood resilience. For example, we were inspired when Miss Clinton from Park Grove Primary Academy reached out to share her class’s journey into river learning, where Year 3/4 students created posters showcasing their understanding of rivers, the water cycle and flood protection. We were delighted by their enthusiasm, and know they are one of many schools engaging with river walks and flood resilience learning.

    Rachel Flood, Ousewem’s project manager, said:

    This is a chance to create something meaningful for York – a legacy that not only reflects the city’s leadership in climate resilience but invites people to connect with the rivers and landscapes that sustain us.

    “We’re looking for creative and community-focused partners who can help tell that story in a way that lasts.”

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency at City of York Council, added:

    This project reflects our commitment to working with communities to tackle the climate and nature crises in ways that are visible, inclusive and lasting, and showcase and help explain the fantastic work that is being done planting trees, hedgerows and natural flood defences upstream from York, to help reduce flooding here in the City.

    “We were really inspired by Miss Clinton’s class work – just one example of the many schools and communities already looking at and celebrating our waterways. By creating a walk that tells the story of our rivers and the actions being taken to protect them, and protect York, we’re helping people see the value of nature-based solutions. It will bring that energy to a wider audience, involving residents, students and visitors in shaping a more resilient future for our city.”

    As a potential platform for future sponsorship and green finance, the York River Walk also offers opportunities to explore longer-term investment in climate resilience, community engagement and nature-based solutions.

    The RFQ was launched on 17 April 2025, with responses expected by 15 May 2025.

    To express interest or find out more, visit the YORtender Portal, using reference: 98650 York River Walk Engagement. If you are not already registered on YORtender you must register for an account to view all the details.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Enlight to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on Tuesday, May 6, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enlight Renewable Energy (“Enlight”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: ENLT, TASE: ENLT.TA), a leading renewable energy platform, today announced it will release its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, before market open on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

    Conference Call Information

    Enlight will host a conference call to review its financial results and business outlook at 8:00 AM ET on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Management will deliver prepared remarks followed by a question-and-answer session. Participants may join by conference call or webcast:

    Conference Call

    Please pre-register to join the live conference call:
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI2f3b7998abd744a590906d1adabe0ad1
    Upon registering, you will be emailed a dial-in number, direct passcode and unique PIN.

    Webcast

    Please register and join the live webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/z2k323sj

    The press release with the financial results as well as the investor presentation materials will be accessible on the Company’s website prior to the conference call. Approximately one hour after completion of the live call, an archived version of the webcast will be available on the Company’s investor relations website at https://enlightenergy.co.il/events/

    About Enlight

    Founded in 2008, Enlight develops, finances, constructs, owns, and operates utility-scale renewable energy projects. Enlight operates across the three largest renewable segments today: solar, wind and energy storage. A global platform, Enlight operates in the United States, Israel and 10 European countries. Enlight has been traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange since 2010 (TASE: ENLT) and completed its U.S. IPO (Nasdaq: ENLT) in 2023. Learn more at www.enlightenergy.co.il.

    Investor Contact

    Yonah Weisz
    Director IR
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    +1 617 542 6180
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations relating to the Project, the PPA and the related interconnection agreement and lease option, and the completion timeline for the Project, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible,” “forecasts,” “aims” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to site suitable land for, and otherwise source, renewable energy projects and to successfully develop and convert them into Operational Projects; availability of, and access to, interconnection facilities and transmission systems; our ability to obtain and maintain governmental and other regulatory approvals and permits, including environmental approvals and permits; construction delays, operational delays and supply chain disruptions leading to increased cost of materials required for the construction of our projects, as well as cost overruns and delays related to disputes with contractors; our suppliers’ ability and willingness to perform both existing and future obligations; competition from traditional and renewable energy companies in developing renewable energy projects; potential slowed demand for renewable energy projects and our ability to enter into new offtake contracts on acceptable terms and prices as current offtake contracts expire; offtakers’ ability to terminate contracts or seek other remedies resulting from failure of our projects to meet development, operational or performance benchmarks; various technical and operational challenges leading to unplanned outages, reduced output, interconnection or termination issues; the dependence of our production and revenue on suitable meteorological and environmental conditions, and our ability to accurately predict such conditions; our ability to enforce warranties provided by our counterparties in the event that our projects do not perform as expected; government curtailment, energy price caps and other government actions that restrict or reduce the profitability of renewable energy production; electricity price volatility, unusual weather conditions (including the effects of climate change, could adversely affect wind and solar conditions), catastrophic weather-related or other damage to facilities, unscheduled generation outages, maintenance or repairs, unanticipated changes to availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments, environmental incidents, or electric transmission system constraints and the possibility that we may not have adequate insurance to cover losses as a result of such hazards; our dependence on certain operational projects for a substantial portion of our cash flows; our ability to continue to grow our portfolio of projects through successful acquisitions; changes and advances in technology that impair or eliminate the competitive advantage of our projects or upsets the expectations underlying investments in our technologies; our ability to effectively anticipate and manage cost inflation, interest rate risk, currency exchange fluctuations and other macroeconomic conditions that impact our business; our ability to retain and attract key personnel; our ability to manage legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk across our global corporate structure; our ability to protect our business from, and manage the impact of, cyber-attacks, disruptions and security incidents, as well as acts of terrorism or war; the potential impact of the current conflicts in Israel on our operations and financial condition and Company actions designed to mitigate such impact; changes to existing renewable energy industry policies and regulations that present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to renewable energy projects; the reduction, elimination or expiration of government incentives for, or regulations mandating the use of, renewable energy; our ability to effectively manage our supply chain and comply with applicable regulations with respect to international trade relations, tariffs, sanctions, export controls and anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws; our ability to effectively comply with Environmental Health and Safety and other laws and regulations and receive and maintain all necessary licenses, permits and authorizations; our performance of various obligations under the terms of our indebtedness (and the indebtedness of our subsidiaries that we guarantee) and our ability to continue to secure project financing on attractive terms for our projects; limitations on our management rights and operational flexibility due to our use of tax equity arrangements; potential claims and disagreements with partners, investors and other counterparties that could reduce our right to cash flows generated by our projects; our ability to comply with tax laws of various jurisdictions in which we currently operate as well as the tax laws in jurisdictions in which we intend to operate in the future; the unknown effect of the dual listing of our ordinary shares on the price of our ordinary shares; various risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel; the costs and requirements of being a public company, including the diversion of management’s attention with respect to such requirements; certain provisions in our Articles of Association and certain applicable regulations that may delay or prevent a change of control; and other risk factors set forth in the section titled “Risk factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC.

    These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as may be required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Equinor (OSE: EQNR, NYSE: EQNR) suspends offshore construction activities for the Empire Wind project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    In accordance with a halt work order issued by the US government, Empire Offshore Wind LLC (Empire) will safely halt the offshore construction in waters of the outer continental shelf for the Empire Wind project.

    On 16 April, Empire received notice from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), ordering Empire to halt all activities on the outer continental shelf until BOEM has completed its review.

    Empire is engaging with relevant authorities to clarify this matter and is considering its legal remedies, including appealing the order.

    The federal lease for Empire Wind was signed with the US Administration in 2017. Empire Wind 1 has validly secured all necessary federal and state permits and is currently under construction. The project is being developed under contract with New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to provide an important new source of electricity for the State of New York. The construction phase has put more than 1,500 people to work in the US. Empire wind 1 has the potential to power 500,000 New York homes.

    Empire is complying with the order affecting project activities for Empire Wind. Upon receipt of the order, immediate steps were taken by Empire and its contractors to initiate suspension of relevant marine activities, ensuring the safety of workers and the environment.

    Empire Wind has per 31 March 2025 a gross book value of around USD 2.5 billion, including South Brooklyn Marine Terminal.

    Equinor’s ownership to Empire is held through the Equinor Wind US LLC.

    Total amount drawn under the project finance term loan facility per 31 March 2025 was around USD 1.5 billion. Empire is in the process of ascertaining the impact on the project and project financing. Equinor US Holdings Inc has provided guarantees for the equity commitment in the project financing. In a full stop scenario, the USD 1.5 billion will be repaid from the equity commitment to the project finance lenders and Empire Offshore Wind LLC will be exposed to termination fees towards its suppliers.

    The halt work order will be disclosed as a subsequent event in the first quarter 2025 report.

    Equinor is a broad energy company with more than 35 years of history in the US. Equinor has invested more than 60 billion USD in the US to date, including in oil, gas and renewables.

    Contact persons:

    Investor relations:
    Bård Glad Pedersen, Senior vice president Investor Relations,
    +47 918 01 791

    Media relations:
    Sissel Rinde, Vice president Media Relations,
    +47 412 60 584

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas City Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars From Employer

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman plead guilty in federal court today to a fraud scheme in which she embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer.

    Jennifer L. Cabral, 51, plead guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lajuana Counts to one count of bank fraud and one count of money laundering.

    By pleading guilty today, Cabral admitted that she stole approximately $306,034.28 from her employer’s bank account and used those funds for her personal benefit and use. As part of the scheme, Cabral accessed her employer’s accounting software and directed payments to her own personal bank accounts through the employer’s online account at a local financial institution.  Cabral used those funds for various personal benefits including vehicle payments toward the purchase of her car, which was forfeited as part of the plea agreement.

    Under federal statutes, Cabral is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole on the bank fraud count and up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the money laundering count. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rudolph R. Rhodes IV. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Grandview, Mo. Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum Returns to Brazzaville in March 2026

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, April 17, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Republic of Congo will host the second edition of the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) from March 10-12, 2026. As the country gears up for a significant increase in its oil output over the next three years and plans to strengthen its position in the natural gas sector, CEIF – under the theme Invest. Build. Empower: Transforming Congo’s Energy Landscape – underscores Congo’s growing role in the global energy landscape.

    The 2025-2026 period promises to be an exciting time for Congo’s energy sector. Set to begin operations by December 2025, Phase 2 of the Congo LNG project will enable energy major Eni to increase gas production from 0.6 million tons per annum (mtpa) to 3 mtpa. Meanwhile, the Fouta refinery construction project is expected to start up by the end of the year and is set to produce 2.5 million tons of petroleum products per year – including diesel and gasoline – upon commissioning. These developments highlight the commitment of major operators to position Congo as a global oil and gas producer, with upcoming regulation and investments further supporting this goal.

    In the gas sector, the country is targeting 3 million tons of LNG per year by this year from Eni’s Marine XII development – featuring the Congo LNG project. This target comes on the heels of Congo’s February 2024 milestone where the country exported its first LNG cargo from the Tango FLNG facility. The Republic of Congo boasts over 10 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas resources and is set to unveil its Gas Master Plan, launch a National Gas Company and release a new Gas Code this year.

    Driven by a series of landmark projects spearheaded by industry giants including TotalEnergies, Trident Energy and Perenco, Congo aims to nearly double oil output from the current 280,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 500,000 bpd by 2027. With aims to harness untapped reserves and maximize the potential of existing assets, this strategy will focus on expanding production in both new and mature fields. To support this goal, the country is set to launch a new international oil and gas licensing round this year. This initiative is expected to usher in a new wave of investment in sub-Saharan Africa’s third-largest oil producing market. The licensing round is designed to attract international oil companies with technical expertise and financial capacity to develop deepwater resources, as well as local and independent companies to exploit marginal fields.

    At CEIF 2025, Congo unveiled plans to double its power generation capacity to 1,500 MW by 2030, with a strong focus on renewable energy projects. The country holds an estimated hydropower potential of 27,000 MW, though only 1% of this resource has been developed. As such, the government has identified several key projects, including water diversion and storage techniques, to maximize hydropower output.

    Through a series of dedicated panel sessions, technical workshops and presentations at CEIF 2026, the event will provide an in-depth look at Congo’s investment landscape. The conference will highlight crucial developments across the country’s energy sector as well as the broader strategic importance of Congo’s energy ambitions.

    “CEIF 2026 serves as a vital platform to showcase Congo’s dynamic energy transformation. As the country scales up oil and gas production and prioritizes renewables, the conference fosters meaningful dialogue, attracts investment and strengthens partnerships essential to unlocking the full potential of Congo’s evolving energy and investment landscape,” states Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director at Energy Capital & Power.

    Supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and national oil company Société nationale des pétroles du Congo, CEIF 2026 will bring together local, regional and international delegates to explore new partnership opportunities across the energy and investments sectors. This highly anticipated event builds on the success of the inaugural edition, which convened government officials, top investors, IOCs, NOCs, independents and industry experts who shared vital insights into Congo’s oil, gas and energy landscape – paving the way for expanded collaboration and professional networking in 2026.

    For more information and to register your interest for CEIF 2026, please visit www.CongoEnergyInvestment.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbPU and Borlas Group: a new impetus for the development of additive technologies for Russian industry

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and Borlas Group (part of Softline Group) signed a strategic partnership agreement to train students and specialists from industrial enterprises in technological innovations: the implementation of additive technologies, Russian engineering software, the use of AI tools; as well as to create engineering and production centers for additive laser technologies together with leading Russian industrial enterprises.

    Borlas Group and Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University have agreed to develop long-term cooperation in the scientific, educational and innovative fields to train students and employees of industrial enterprises in the implementation of additive technologies, generative design, topological optimization in the design of products for 3D printing, the use of AI tools, integration with PLM systems and engineering software, as well as their readiness to participate in the creation of laser technology centers together with leading Russian industrial enterprises.

    “We are actively working on retraining and upgrading the qualifications of industrial specialists, taking into account the specialized areas in the field of modern and promising technologies. The use of additive technologies allows Russian enterprises to improve the quality of production, reduce material costs and project implementation times,” said SPbPU Rector Andrey Rudskoy. “The result of our cooperation with the Borlas Group should be high-quality professional training of university graduates, the creation of a personnel reserve of the enterprise from among young specialists with the relevant competencies in the field of high-tech production.”

    We are pleased to cooperate with the highly professional team of SPbPU as a strategic partner in the joint development of innovative technologies for leading industrial enterprises and the opportunity to thus contribute to the development and improvement of the efficiency of Russian industry. I am confident that our joint work will bring excellent results, – noted the President of the Borlas Group Alexey Ananyin.

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is one of the largest technical universities in the country with historically strong scientific schools, having undeniable results and achievements in scientific, educational and innovative activities. The strategic goal of SPbPU is the modernization and development of the university as a globally competitive scientific and educational center integrating multidisciplinary scientific research and world-class technologies and being one of the world’s leading universities.

    The Borlas Group has 30 years of successful experience in automating Russian industrial enterprises, with a staff of about 600 certified specialists with experience in developing and implementing the main classes of industrial software, including for critical information infrastructure facilities.

    The Softline Group of Companies has transformed from a provider of solutions in the field of digital transformation and information security into an investment and technology holding with a focus on innovation. Today, the Softline Group of Companies is a leader in a number of technology market segments, with more than 30 years of experience and a wide regional presence in Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Indonesia and the UAE.

    Over the past three years, more than 15 new companies have entered the GC perimeter, the product portfolio has significantly expanded due to innovative solutions in the field of artificial intelligence, laser technologies, cloud computing and information security. The number of employees has grown from 5 to 11 thousand people, more than half of whom are engineers and developers. Currently, Softline GC is forming several clusters, which will include both the current companies of the Group and those newly acquired as a result of M

    The Borlas Group is one of the founders and leading players in the information technology market in Russia and the CIS. For over 30 years, Borlas has been confirming its reputation as a reliable and professional partner, offering customers an individual approach and modern tools for solving current management problems: IT consulting, development and implementation of corporate information systems, business applications and product lifecycle management systems, construction of IT infrastructure and comprehensive security systems, as well as cloud services and functional and technical support for implemented solutions.

    Softline Group of Companies (PJSC Softline) is an investment and technology holding company, a leader in a number of technology market segments, with more than 30 years of experience and a broad regional presence in Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Indonesia and the UAE.

    PAO Softline is a public company, whose shares and bonds are traded on the Moscow Exchange (ticker – SOFL). The group focuses on new technologies and consists of several clusters:

    artificial intelligence and development of custom and mass-produced software; production of high-tech equipment, including computer systems and laser technologies; development of information security solutions; implementation of complex IT projects.

    Softline Group is a platform for consolidating IT companies and forming new IT clusters for their entry into capital markets and growth financing. Softline Group provides them with synergy by accessing its client base in the markets where it operates.

    The company has over 11,000 qualified employees, more than half of whom are engineers and developers. The company has over 100,000 clients from all sectors of the economy. Currently, Softline Group is one of the fastest growing companies in the industry with an average annual growth rate of over 30%. In 2024, its turnover exceeded 120.6 billion rubles.

    Photo archive

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: MultiCorp International, Inc. Announces that Strategic Partner Neoforma, Inc. has received $2 Billion Credit Transfer Receipt per April 14, 2025 press release announcing Quadrpartitie Agreement.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AGOURA HILLS, CALIFORNIA, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MultiCorp International, Inc. (OTC Markets PINK: MCIC) Multicorp International, Inc. is pleased to announce that Neoforma Inc. has received the $2,000,000,000 credit transfer receipt from Airavata Developers Corporation’s top 10 European Bank this morning.

    Multicorp International, Inc.’s alliance with 40 Brightwater LLC’s Global Financial Consortium inclusive of Neoforma Inc. and now Airavata Developers Corporation has expanded immediate access to greater liquidity, which will be added to the previously announced financings from Edwards Capital N.A. correspondent bank.

    In turn, Neoforma Inc. will provide a line of credit to MultiCorp International, Inc. in an amount of up to $1,800,000,000 (one billion eight hundred million USD), to be utilized to execute all transactions previously announced with Global X Cryptocurrency Stablecoin Tokens (GBP-pegged), Bitcoin, and gold-backed Cryptocurrency Tokens, as well as to perfect the newly-targeted acquisition of a mineral property in Michigan and to cover all required corporate expenditures.

    About MultiCorp International, Inc. :

    (https://multicorpinternational.com/)

    MultiCorp International, Inc., a diversified leader in health, energy, and agriculture, announces a series of strategic initiatives aimed at accelerating its growth and expanding its market presence. The company is actively pursuing joint ventures and acquisitions, is fortifying its organizational infrastructure, and is preparing for significant advancements in the stock market.

    About Neoforma Inc. :

    www.neoforma.co

    Neoforma Inc. is a Minnesota based privately held corporation and a global leader in Software & Technology. The company has now diversified into International finance including private equity and has operations globally, including India, the UAE, the UK, Mexico and the United States and serves clients globally. Its client base includes numerous global corporations as well as government entities.

    About Airavata Developers Corporation:

    Airavata-corp.com

    Airavata Developers Corporation is a prominent international construction firm that has carved a niche for itself in the design and construction of commercial and industrial infrastructure. With a commitment to excellence, we specialize in a wide array of services that encompass every phase of the construction process, including comprehensive pre-construction planning, meticulous project management, and effective general contracting. Each of these services is tailored to meet the specific needs and demands of our diverse clientele, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed their expectations.

    At the helm of our organization are the highly respected Principal Partners, Alan Khara, who serves as the Chief Executive Director and Chairman, and David D. Brannon, the Executive Financial Director. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the company. Their unwavering dedication extends beyond just business; they are passionately committed to fostering community excellence. This commitment is demonstrated through substantial efforts in promoting global economic development while simultaneously focusing on job creation within the communities we operate. Their leadership style emphasizes ethical practices, innovative thinking, and a deep responsibility toward societal well-being.

    Airavata Developers Corporation has set forth an ambitious goal: to emerge as the global leader within this ever-evolving and dynamic construction industry. To achieve this vision, we place a strong emphasis on delivering exceptional service that stands out in a competitive marketplace. This is complemented by our proactive approach in integrating cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art materials into our projects. By continually investing in the latest advancements in construction techniques and environmental sustainability, we ensure that our infrastructure not only meets current industry standards but also anticipates future demands.

    Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation drives every project we undertake, ensuring that we consistently remain at the forefront of industry trends and client expectations.

    David Brannon Chief Financial Director/ Partner

    About 40 Brightwater LLC:

    40 Brightwater LLC is a private holding company focusing specifically on acquiring private entities and merging its holdings with public companies by leveraging its financial network and resources through its Managing Member, President & CEO Shannon Newby.

    Disclaimer: This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction where such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful before registration or qualification under applicable securities laws. Any offer will be made only through a prospectus supplement and accompanying base prospectus as part of an effective registration statement.

    Contact Information: J. A. Coleman, J.a.coleman1512@gmail.com.

    This press release is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or a solicitation to purchase securities. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. These statements are based on current expectations and could differ materially from actual events

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – ZA Miner Launches Free Cloud Mining Platform, Helping Users Earn Passive Income While Empowering Bitcoin and Dogecoin Enthusiasts in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Generate passive income through Zaminer’s cloud mining service.

    MIDDLESEX, United Kingdom, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZA Miner, a leading cloud mining provider, is excited to announce the launch of its free cloud mining platform, enabling Bitcoin (BTC) and Dogecoin (DOGE) enthusiasts worldwide to participate in crypto mining without any upfront investment or the need for expensive hardware.

    Innovating Cloud Mining for Global Access

    In response to the growing interest in cryptocurrency, ZA Miner is dedicated to making mining more inclusive. Unlike traditional methods that require costly equipment, ZA Miner’s cloud-based platform allows users to mine Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Litecoin (LTC) effortlessly, without the need for hardware or high electricity costs. This model aligns with global pro-crypto policies and addresses the demand for accessible mining opportunities.

    Why Choose ZA Miner’s Free Cloud Mining Platform?

    ZA Miner operates from Middlesex, UK, leveraging energy-efficient mining facilities in regions like Kazakhstan and Iceland. These strategic locations optimize mining efficiency and sustainability, allowing the company to deliver a low-cost, high-output service to its users.

    By offering a risk-free mining experience, ZA Miner eliminates the technical barriers typically associated with crypto mining. New users are provided with a $100 free mining contract, enabling them to explore cloud mining without any financial commitment. For those looking to enhance their mining experience, ZA Miner also offers flexible contract options tailored to various investment goals.

    Flexible mining contracts from ZA Miner cater to all experience levels.

    Key Features of ZA Miner’s Cloud Mining Platform:

    • Free Mining Package – New users receive a $100 bonus to start mining immediately.
    • No Hardware Needed – Mine Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Litecoin with no expensive equipment.
    • Daily Payouts – Earn consistent passive income with automatic distributions.
    • No Electricity Costs – Cloud infrastructure removes the need for costly electricity.
    • UK-Based & Compliant – Fully regulated to ensure credibility and security.
    • Robust Security – SSL encryption and DDoS protection safeguard user data and transactions.
    • Affiliate Program – Earn commissions by referring new users to the platform.

    Getting Started with ZA Miner

    • Sign Up – Register with an email address.
    • Claim Free Contract – Start mining with the $100 free contract.
    • Upgrade to Premium – Choose from various plans for higher earnings.

    As cryptocurrency adoption accelerates, ZA Miner is redefining access to cloud mining. By offering a risk-free entry point and competitive contracts, ZA Miner is empowering individuals to engage in the digital economy with ease and confidence.

    For more information, visit www.zaminer.com or follow ZA Miner on Twitter @zamining and YouTube @Zaminers.

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3738e78d-c1a7-41c7-b8c4-7b7c6f10edfe

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9fba6dee-4df6-44b7-9b1f-9a3c87ce8a84

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Donegal Group Inc. Announces Increase in Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MARIETTA, Pa., April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Donegal Group Inc. (NASDAQ:DGICA) and (NASDAQ:DGICB) reported today that its board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.1825 per share of the Company’s Class A common stock and $0.165 per share of the Company’s Class B common stock. The dividends are payable on May 15, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on May 1, 2025.

    These dividends represent percentage increases of 5.8% for the Company’s Class A common stock and 6.5% for the Company’s Class B common stock compared to the previous quarterly cash dividend rates.

    About Donegal Group Inc.

    Donegal Group Inc. is an insurance holding company whose insurance subsidiaries and affiliates offer property and casualty lines of insurance in 21 Mid-Atlantic, Midwestern, Southern and Southwestern states. Donegal Mutual Insurance Company and its insurance subsidiaries conduct business together with the insurance subsidiaries of Donegal Group Inc. as the Donegal Insurance Group. The Donegal Insurance Group has an A.M. Best rating of A (Excellent).

    The Class A common stock and Class B common stock of Donegal Group Inc. trade on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbols DGICA and DGICB, respectively. The Company is focused on several primary strategies, including achieving sustained excellent financial performance, strategically modernizing its operations and processes to transform its business, capitalizing on opportunities to grow profitably and providing superior experiences to its agents, customers and employees.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Karin Daly
    Vice President, The Equity Group Inc.
    Phone: (212) 836-9623
    E-mail: kdaly@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Hits 500,000 Users Milestone With 100x Leverage, No KYC, and Massive Bonus Campaign

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Crypto trading platform BexBack, which officially launched in May 2024, has rapidly surpassed 500,000 registered users globally, cementing its place as one of the fastest-growing derivatives exchanges in the industry. With up to 100x leverage, no KYC requirements, and an aggressive bonus-driven growth strategy, BexBack is transforming the way crypto enthusiasts engage with trading — putting speed, privacy, and profitability at the forefront.

    “BexBack was built for traders who value freedom, performance, and simplicity,” said David, Operations Director at BexBack. “Our platform removes friction without compromising power — no verification, no delays, just fast, secure trading and real rewards.”

    What Sets BexBack Apart?

    • 100x Leverage: Execute high-risk, high-reward strategies with maximum exposure.
    • No KYC: Trade anonymously from anywhere, with total privacy.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus: Instantly available after registration and first completed trade.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your trading capital (bonus funds are non-withdrawable but usable in trading).
    • $100 Flash Bonus Campaign: For a limited time only, users who deposit more than 0.01 BTC or 1000 USDT within 48 hours of joining the campaign will receive an extra $100 trading bonus. While the bonus itself is non-withdrawable, profits generated from using it are fully withdrawable.
    • Zero Spread, Zero Slippage: Enjoy institutional-grade execution with real price integrity.
    • Demo Mode: Practice with 10 BTC & 1 million USDT in virtual assets — ideal for beginners and strategists.

    In addition, BexBack’s affiliate program offers up to 50% commission on referred users’ trading fees — with no limit and permanent referral binding.

    Since launching, BexBack has earned a loyal global following across North America, Europe, and Asia, praised for its user-first approach, multilingual 24/7 support, and lightning-fast platform design.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/71abc268-4df7-4ec4-be94-c647dae843de

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2ceef4dc-3e06-4519-bf0a-e6bd4c00b743

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke secures government approval to publish the Short Term Letting and Tourism Bill General Scheme

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    17th April 2025

    Minister James Browne to publish new planning guidance

    Minister Peter Burke has today secured Cabinet approval to publish the General Scheme of the new Short Term Letting and Tourism (STLT) Bill. The legislation will introduce a register for all Short Term Lets (STLs) in Ireland, which will be implemented and managed by Fáilte Ireland from 20 May 2026, ensuring compliance with the new EU Short Term Rental Regulation which was adopted by the EU on 11 April 2024.

    Minister for Housing James Browne has also secured approval from government to publish a National Planning Statement on Short Term Letting, in order to give greater clarity to the sector with regards planning in advance of the commencement of the new legislation.

    Minister Burke said:

     “This is a very important piece of legislation that will enable the introduction of new regulatory controls for the Short-Term Letting sector. The self-catering and wider short-term letting sector is an important element of the Irish tourism ecosystem and for the first time, we will have up to date and accurate data on the numbers and spread of this accommodation.

    “Tourism is of critical importance to the Irish economy, providing 228,000 jobs and €6 billion income to our economy in 2024. The long-term development of the tourism sector requires that an appropriate balance is achieved between the short-term letting sector and long-term housing market, and the wider needs of local communities, both economically and socially.”

    Minister Burke went on to say:

    “I am aware of the genuine concerns regarding the impacts on rural tourism and local economies of removing a significant cohort of STL properties from the tourism and other short-term letting market and I continue to engage with the sector in this regard. However, meeting local housing need across Ireland is a critically important consideration and government must use every lever available to assist in providing homes for our people.”

    The new STL register will be available online and will provide a full picture of the stock of registered tourist accommodation across the state. Hosts offering STL accommodation for periods up to and including 21 nights will be obliged to register with Fáilte Ireland and hold a valid registration number that must be displayed when advertising their STL property.

    The EU STR Regulation and Ireland’s new registration requirements for STLs will both come into full force on 20 May 2026. Fáilte Ireland will apply the enforcement mechanisms provided for in the legislation in respect of non-compliant STL hosts by means of Fixed Payment Notices and/or summary proceedings in the District Court.

    The STLT Bill also provides for the introduction of an administrative sanction procedure (ASP) for infringements by online short-term rental platforms of their obligations under the STR Regulation. This will enable the State to impose large financial penalties (a maximum of 2% of turnover) to enforce compliance where necessary.

    Minister Burke will appoint an independent panel to determine the level of financial sanction to be imposed.

    The Cabinet also approved, for the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, the drafting of new planning guidance and any necessary legislative changes to implement the new Planning Guidelines in the form of a National Planning Statement on short-term letting. That Planning Statement is an important input in balancing local housing, tourism and economic needs and will provide the necessary clarity to the STL sector on the planning requirements around STL properties. The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage will publish these guidelines in advance of the final enactment of the STLT Bill.

    Minister Browne said:

    “In advance of commencement of the legislation, I will be publishing new planning guidance to give greater clarity to the short term letting sector and to allow those in tourism to plan accordingly. This guidance will seek to recognise the needs of tourism and those who visit Ireland, while also acting on the urgent aim of this government to increase domestic rental supply.”

    This new housing policy is to generally preclude new planning permissions for short term lets in cities and towns with a census population in excess of 10,000 persons, or as may be set by regulations, and to enable local authorities have discretion to develop policies for other locations having regard to relevant local criteria to be set out in the guidance.

    At present, all STL properties with the exception of your principal private residence (PPR) based in rent pressure zones are required to have appropriate planning permission. If you rent out a room in your PPR, planning permission is generally not required, however if you rent out the entire PPR property for more than 90 days planning permission is necessary.

    Minister Burke and his department will consider the full implications for the tourism sector as we await the planning clarification from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

    ENDS

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Home Price Growth Remains Steady in First Quarter

    Source: Fannie Mae

    WASHINGTON, DC – Single-family home prices increased 5.2 percent from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025, largely unchanged from the previous quarter’s year-over-year growth pace of 5.3 percent, according to the latest reading of the Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) Home Price Index (FNM-HPI). The FNM-HPI is a national, repeat-transaction home price index measuring the average, quarterly price change for all single-family properties in the United States, excluding condos. On a quarterly basis, home prices rose 1.4 percent in Q1 2025 on a seasonally adjusted and non-seasonally adjusted basis.

    The FNM-HPI is produced by aggregating county-level data to create both seasonally adjusted and non-seasonally adjusted national indices that are representative of the whole country and designed to serve as indicators of general single-family home price trends. The FNM-HPI is publicly available at the national level as a quarterly series with a start date of Q1 1975 and extending to the most recent quarter, Q1 2025. Fannie Mae publishes the FNM-HPI approximately mid-month during the first month of each new quarter.

    The full FNM-HPI data sets and a description of the methodology are available on Fannie Mae’s Research and Insights page: https://www.fanniemae.com/research-and-insights

    Fannie Mae’s home price estimates are based on preliminary data available as of the date of index estimation and are subject to change as additional data become available. Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae’s business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.

    About the ESR Group
    Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research Group, led by Chief Economist Mark Palim, studies current data, analyzes historical and emerging trends, and conducts surveys of consumer and mortgage lender groups to provide forecasts and analyses on the economy, housing, and mortgage markets.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Míla Holding hf.: Confirmation of the report on the financial obligations of MILA 300929 bond

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Míla Holding hf.: Confirmation of the report on the financial obligations of MILA 300929 bond

    Enclosed is a confirmation by KPMG ehf. on Míla Holding hf.’s report on financial obligations relating to the issuance of MILA 300929 bond. The consolidated annual accounts of Mila hf. for the operating year 2024 were published on 4 April 2025. The calculation and confirmation of financial conditions shall be carried out following the publication of the company’s annual accounts and the issuance of MILA 300929 bond.

    The review of financial obligations by KPMG ehf. was in accordance with Míla Holding hf.’s assessment and a report on financial obligations was therefore confirmed.

    For more information please contact:
    Inga Helga Halldórudóttir
    Compliance officer
    Míla Holding hf.
    regluvordur@mila.is

    Attachment

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