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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call for more workers to have a permanent four day week

    Source: Scottish Greens

    15 Apr 2025 Economy

    A four day week is better for workers rights.

    More in Economy

    The Easter Bank Holiday period underlines the many benefits of a four day work week, say the Scottish Greens.

    The party’s workers’ rights spokesperson, Maggie Chapman MSP, has called for the UK and Scottish Governments to support companies and organisations who are considering trialling or introducing a four day week for workers.

    The Scottish Greens have already adopted a four day working week for party and MSP office staff, with positive results. Better work-life balance, less stress, and more control over their lives are just some of the benefits that staff have reported. Better focus at work also means increased productivity.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “Every worker deserves to have a good work-life balance, and a four day week without loss of pay is a proven way of providing that.

    “The Easter bank holidays will give workers all over the country more time to spend with their families, friends and loved ones, or simply to relax. That should be normal rather than being an exception.

    “The path to a four day week will be different for every company and organisation. That’s why we want to see more trials across different sectors and are urging the Scottish and UK governments to offer more support for those making the change.

    “Whenever workers’ rights have been extended there have been people telling us it is impossible or would result in a loss of productivity or profit.

    “We heard this with the introduction of weekends, basic health and safety, and the minimum wage: the same voices told us they couldn’t be done, or they would be detrimental.

    “I believe that people are so much more than just cogs in our economy, and that means we must ensure that work does not cause stress and harm to people. We already have longer work weeks than the European average.

    “We should be transforming our relationship with work to support the health and wellbeing of our workforce. Because that will be good for them but also for those they work for: happy, healthy employees will be more productive than sick, stressed and frustrated workers.

    “The impact of normalising a four day week could be transformative for workers’ rights and for building a fairer, greener and better future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Artificial Intelligence fuels rise of hard-to-detect bots that now make up more than half of global internet traffic, according to the 2025 Imperva Bad Bot Report

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Artificial Intelligence fuels rise of hard-to-detect bots that now make up more than half of global internet traffic, according to the 2025 Imperva Bad Bot Report

    • Rise in accessible AI tools significantly lowered the barrier to entry for cyber attackers, enabling them to create and deploy malicious bots at scale.
    • For the first time in a decade, automated traffic surpassed human activity, accounting for 51% of all web traffic.
    • API-directed attacks surged to 44% of advanced bot traffic, with the travel sector topping the list for bot attacks overall.

    Thales, the leading global technology and security provider, today announced the release of the 2025 Imperva Bad Bot Report, a global analysis of automated bot traffic across the internet. This year’s report, the 12thannual research study, reveals that generative artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the development of bots, allowing less sophisticated actors to launch a higher volume of bot attacks with increased frequency. Today’s attackers are also leveraging AI to scrutinize their unsuccessful attempts and refine techniques to evade security measures with heightened efficiency, amidst a growing Bots-As-A-Service (BaaS) ecosystem of commercialized bot services.


    Automated bot traffic surpassed human-generated traffic for the first time in a decade, constituting 51% of all web traffic in 2024. This shift is largely attributed to the rise of AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), which have simplified the creation and scaling of bots for malicious purposes. As AI tools become more accessible, cyber criminals are increasingly leveraging these technologies to create and deploy malicious bots which now account for 37% of all internet traffic – a significant increase from 32% in 2023. This is the sixth consecutive year of growth in bad bot activity, posing security challenges for organizations striving to safeguard their digital assets.

    Both the Travel and the Retail sectors face an advanced bot problem, with bad bots making up 41% and 59% of their traffic respectively. In 2024, the travel industry became the most attacked sector, accounting for 27% of all bot attacks, up from 21% in 2023. The most notable shift in 2024 is the decline in advanced bot attacks targeting the travel industry (41%, down from 61% in 2023) and the sharp increase in simple bot attacks (52%, up from 34%). This shift indicates that AI-powered automation tools have lowered the barriers to entry for attackers, allowing less sophisticated actors to initiate more basic bot attacks. Rather than relying exclusively on sophisticated techniques, cybercriminals are increasingly utilizing high volumes of simpler bots to inundate travel sites, resulting in more frequent and widespread attacks.

    The Rise of AI-Driven Bots: A New Era of Cybersecurity Challenges

    The emergence of advanced AI tools, including ChatGPT, ByteSpider Bot, ClaudeBot, Google Gemini, Perplexity AI, and Cohere AI, are transforming not just user interactions but also the methods by which attackers execute cyber threats. According to the Imperva Threat Research team, widely used AI tools are being leveraged for cyberattacks, with ByteSpider Bot alone responsible for 54% of all AI-enabled attacks. Other significant contributors include AppleBot at 26%, ClaudeBot at 13%, and ChatGPT User Bot at 6%.

    “The surge in AI-driven bot creation has serious implications for businesses worldwide,” said Tim Chang, General Manager of Application Security, Thales Cybersecurity Products. “As automated traffic accounts for more than half of all web activity, organizations face heightened risks from bad bots, which are becoming more prolific every day.”

    As attackers become more adept at utilizing AI, they can execute a variety of cyber threats—ranging from DDoS attacks to custom rules exploitation and API violations. While bot-driven attacks have become increasingly sophisticated, they pose significant challenges for detection efforts.

    “This year’s report sheds light on the evolving tactics and techniques utilized by bot attackers. What were once deemed advanced evasion methods have now become standard practice for many malicious bots,” Chang said. “In this rapidly changing environment, businesses must evolve their strategies. It’s crucial to adopt an adaptive and proactive approach, leveraging sophisticated bot detection tools and comprehensive cybersecurity management solutions to build a resilient defense against the ever-shifting landscape of bot-related threats.”

    Bad Bots Targeting API Business Logic Pose Increased Threat to Modern Enterprises

    Recent findings from the Imperva Threat Research team reveal a significant surge in API-directed attacks, with 44% of advanced bot traffic targeting APIs. These attacks aren’t just limited to overwhelming API endpoints; rather, they target the intricate business logic that defines how APIs operate. Attackers deploy bots specifically designed to exploit vulnerabilities in API workflows, engaging in automated payment fraud, account hijacking, and data exfiltration.

    Analysis in the report reveals a deliberate strategy by cyber attackers to exploit API endpoints that manage sensitive and high-value data. Implications of this trend are especially impactful for industries that rely on APIs for their critical operations and transactions. Financial services, healthcare, and e-commerce sectors are bearing the brunt of these sophisticated bot attacks, making them prime targets for malicious actors seeking to breach sensitive information.

    APIs serve as the backbone of modern applications, enabling connectivity across services, streamlining operations, and delivering personalized customer experiences at scale. They underpin essential functions such as payment processing, supply chain management, and AI-driven analytics, making them indispensable for enhancing efficiency, accelerating product development, and unlocking new revenue streams.

    “The business logic inherent to APIs is powerful, but it also creates unique vulnerabilities that malicious actors are eager to exploit,” Chang said. “As organizations embrace cloud-based services and microservices architectures, it’s vital to understand that the very features that make APIs essential can also leave them susceptible to risk of fraud and data breaches.”

    Financial Services, Healthcare, and E-commerce Industries Face Heightened Risk

    The 2025 Imperva Bad Bot Report provides an in-depth analysis highlighting the industries most at risk. Financial services, healthcare, and e-commerce are the most affected sectors, industries that rely on APIs for critical operations and sensitive transactions, making them attractive targets for sophisticated bot attacks.

    The financial services sector was the most targeted industry for account takeover (ATO) attacks, accounting for 22% of all incidents, followed by Telecoms and ISPs with 18%, and Computing & IT with 17%. Financial Services has long been a prime target for ATO attacks due to the high value of accounts and the sensitive nature of the data at stake. Banks, credit card companies, and fintech platforms possess vast amounts of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), including credit card and bank account details, which can be profitably sold on the dark web. Additionally, the growing proliferation of APIs within the industry has broadened the attack surface, allowing cyber criminals to exploit vulnerabilities such as weak authentication and authorization methods, thereby facilitating account takeovers and data theft.

    About the Research

    The 12th Annual Imperva Bad Bot Report is based on insights from our Threat Research and Security Analyst Services (SAS) teams. Our analysis draws from data collected from across the Imperva global network in 2024, including the blocking of 13 trillion bad bot requests across thousands of domains and industries. This dataset provides key insights into bot activity to help organizations understand and address the growing risks of automated attacks.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin: Moscow taxi market has been fully legalized in 15 years

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In 15 years, the capital has managed to fully legalize the taxi market. Sergei Sobyanin spoke about how the passenger transportation service is developing in the city in his telegram channel.

    “Today, almost 200 thousand work in Moscow and the Moscow region – the fleet has grown by 15 percent in the last year alone. The average age of the car is only 3.2 years. This is one of the youngest taxi fleets in Europe,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    In 2024, more than 632 million passengers used taxis. This is a record figure: daily passenger traffic reached 1.73 million people.

    The last 15 years have seen the revival of Moscow taxis. Particular attention is paid to the quality of service and safety. Since 2024, the city has been certifying taxi drivers, and since March 1, 2025, it has become mandatory. All active drivers in the region have already passed the exam. This guarantees that a real professional who knows the city, follows traffic rules and understands what to do in an emergency will come to the passenger. In 2021, Moscow was the first in the country to introduce a comprehensive information system “Taxi Operation Analytics” (KIS “ART”) – thanks to it, today passengers can be sure that only conscientious specialists go out on the line.

    From September 1, 2023, under the new law, taxi ordering services are responsible to passengers. They ensure that only qualified drivers are behind the wheel of the car. In addition, with the participation of city and federal agencies, preventive checks are carried out to identify illegal taxis – in late March and early April, they were carried out in the Southern Administrative District of the capital.

    There is a platform for taxi service owners “Open Control”, where you can get free consultations and check your taxi fleet for compliance with mandatory requirements.

    Moscow to Continue Updating Car Sharing and Taxi FleetsThe Moscow Transport Museum has restored the GAZ-M20A Pobeda, the first post-war taxi

    Since 2012, the city has been providing financial support to taxi companies. Thus, over 13 years, they have been compensated for part of the costs of purchasing more than 92 thousand cars. The total amount of subsidies was 2.49 billion rubles. The funds are allocated for the purchase of cars that meet the fifth or sixth environmental classes, as well as electric cars manufactured in Moscow (for them, an increasing coefficient of 2.5 applies). The new cars make passenger trips not only comfortable, but also safer.

    In the future, there is a transition to environmentally friendly transport. It is planned that by 2030, about half of the taxi fleet will be electric vehicles – comfortable and having a lower impact on the environment.

    “We see the result: since 2019, the number of accidents involving taxis has decreased by four percent. Our task is to develop a modern, safe and convenient service that meets international standards,” concluded Sergei Sobyanin.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12620050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST welcomes London Metal Exchange’s approval of first batch of approved warehouses in Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST welcomes London Metal Exchange’s approval of first batch of approved warehouses in Hong Kong 
         Mr Hui said, “The LME included Hong Kong as an approved delivery point within its global warehousing network in January this year, and began accepting applications from warehouse operators to become approved storage entities of LME-registered brands of metals. The approval of the first batch of applications in merely a few months indicated the efforts of the Government and the industry in exploring new growth areas, and allowed LME-approved warehouse operators and local warehouse operators to begin the process of establishing operations early.”
    　　　　　
         He added, “In his 2024 Policy Address, the Chief Executive emphasised the need to explore new growth areas, and the establishment of a commodity trading ecosystem is a new growth point to consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. The establishment of LME-approved warehouses in Hong Kong will provide convenient, cost-effective and safe delivery channels for metals trading in the region. This will not only attract relevant enterprises to establish a presence in Hong Kong, turning our city into an operation centre for international commodity trading, storage and delivery, shipping and logistics, risk management, but also promote the development of related financial transactions such as futures, thereby injecting new impetus into consolidating Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. I hope the approved warehouses will commence operations as soon as possible, and I look forward to seeing more successful cases of approval for operators to become approved warehouses to foster the growth of local commodity trading-related services.”
     
         The Government understands that other operators are applying to become approved warehouses of the LME. Relevant bureaux and departments will continue to maintain communication with relevant industry players and provide assistance on technical matters as appropriate.
     
    Issued at HKT 16:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit today (April 15):
     
    Honourable Governor Maurizio Rasero of Asti Province and Mayor of Asti City, Italy, Honourable Executive Vice Chair Sima Hong of the World Tourism Cities Federation Council and Vice Mayor of Beijing, Honourable Deputy Director Qi Bin of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Honourable Deputy Commissioner Pan Yundong of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, honourable city mayors, vice mayors and institutional leaders from around the world, distinguished guests and friends from the global tourism community, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good afternoon. Welcome to Hong Kong, and to the 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit. 
     
         Fragrant Hills, as you would all know, is a scenic area in Beijing, where the World Tourism Cities Federation is headquartered. “Fragrant hills” also makes me think of Hong Kong as a “fragrant harbour” – the Chinese name of Hong Kong can literally be translated as “fragrant harbour”.
     
         “Fragrant”, let me add, because of Hong Kong’s redolent history as a major trader for incense, particularly agarwood incense and the wood’s varied byproducts.
     
         Over the centuries, the sweet aroma of agarwood, of incense, drifted from harbour to city – and all around the world. From incense and fragrance, to merchandise and capital, Hong Kong has always been a bridge between cultures, cities and continents, bringing out the best of our products on the global arena.
     
         Today, Hong Kong remains a major global trading centre, a centre of free trade. That’s thanks, too, to the Hong Kong Port in our harbour, to the Hong Kong International Airport, and to our varied and seamless transport links to China, our country.
     
         These seamless links, and our singular status as the city where East has long met West, are not going to change. In a world beset by trade woes and geopolitical crises, Hong Kong is determined to continue its dedication to free and open trade.
     
         That has also led us to become one of the world’s greatest centres for tourism. So it is an honour that the World Tourism Cities Federation has chosen Hong Kong for this year’s Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit. The Federation, after all, is the world’s first international tourism organisation to focus its mission and mandate on cities.
     
         Not surprising, then, that this Summit welcomes city mayors, vice mayors and other city officials and delegations from over 40 cities from the Mainland and around the world. Together, we embody the spirit of collaboration beyond geographical boundaries. Together, we unite for the future of tourism.
     
         The theme of this year’s Summit, “Innovate City Branding to Elevate Tourism Excellence”, gives us a good start to discuss how our cities could, through collaboration, achieve high-quality development in tourism and more.
     
         For Hong Kong, long an international metropolis, one key development opportunity certainly comes from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
     
         This cluster city development brings together Hong Kong, Macao and nine southern cities in the Guangdong province, and boasts a population of over 86 million. It also has a combined GDP (Gross Domestic Product) that rivals that of the world’s 10th largest economy.
     
         What it means is a consumer market, and source of tourists, that is over 10 times as large as our own city. What it also means, with our country’s facilitation measures for travellers, is that visitors who choose to visit this part of the world have much more cities to add to their itinerary. We are fast developing in multi-destination tourism for an interconnected world. From a six-day visa for visitors in tour groups led by a Hong Kong travel agent, to the visa-free policy for cruise ship travellers along the country’s coastline.
     
         That said, you can well begin in Hong Kong, where there’s something happening everywhere you look – and at our Victoria Harbour. You need only to see for yourself how open, welcoming and endlessly amazing our city is, to a world of tourism – to you.
     
         Start with Victoria Harbour, and enjoy the refreshing views with our skyline and green hills rising from both sides of the harbour. And do take the Star Ferry. For more than a century, it’s been one of the world’s most unforgettable harbour passages. Leisure travel, timeless memories – in Hong Kong – and for well under US$1 a trip. It’s really good value for money.
     
         Hong Kong, after all, is the world’s mega event city. Last week, UK (United Kingdom) band Coldplay performed four sold-out concerts at our brand-new, state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park. And through next Monday, it’s the 49th Hong Kong International Film Festival.
     
         Art lovers will want to catch the exhibition “Picasso for Asia: a Conversation”, at M+ museum, in the West Kowloon Cultural District – one of the world’s largest cultural developments. More than 60 masterpieces by Picasso are shown alongside artworks by Asian artists. Also there, is the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which is now showcasing an exhibition that brings together treasures from Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Palace of Versailles in Paris.
     
         Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong is where cultures meet and thrive, where creativity is well and alive. And you can also count on hills and sea coasts alive with fabulous hiking, and biking trails. After all, country parks make up some 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s total land area.
     
         And when you’re all hiked and biked out, settle into one of our nearly 80 Michelin-starred restaurants, do yum cha (tea and food) with half of Hong Kong, then toast your good fortune at a local brew pub, or get cozy with milk tea at a classic dai pai dong, our traditional cooked food stalls. And don’t leave Hong Kong without a sky-high cocktail, or two, at hotel and city lounges rising from either side of Victoria Harbour. From dim sum dreams to boozy nights, our food paradise glows with true delights.
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, I’m sure this year’s Fragrant Hills will bring about global thrills. My thanks to the World Tourism Cities Federation, and this Hong Kong Summit. I’m confident we’ll find a wellspring of innovative and inspiring ways to work together, to reimagine travel for this 21st century packed with promise for global tourism – and for each and every one of our proud and magnificent cities.
     
         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 3:13PM by PIB Delhi

     

    Key Takeaways

     

    • India contributes 7.1% to global GDP through its automotive sector and ranks 4th in global vehicle production.
    • Despite a strong manufacturing base, India holds only 3% share in global traded auto components, highlighting a vast scope for expansion.
    • The Vision 2030 roadmap aims to scale production to $145bn, exports to $60bn, and generate 2–2.5 million jobs.
    • Government schemes like FAME, PM E-Drive, and PLI have mobilized ₹66,000+ crore to support EVs and localization.
    • With targeted reforms and GVC integration, India can raise its global component trade share from 3% to 8% by 2030.

     

     

    On 11th April 2024, NITI Aayog released a report titled ‘Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains’, launched by Vice Chairman Shri Suman Bery, senior members, and the CEO of NITI Aayog. The report outlines India’s Global Value Chain (GVC) potential in the automotive sector and highlights strategic pathways for global leadership.

    India’s automotive industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s manufacturing and economic growth, contributing 7.1% to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 49% to manufacturing GDP. As the fourth-largest automobile producer globally, India possesses the scale and strategic depth to emerge as a global leader in the automotive value chain. The sector spans a vast ecosystem, from vehicle assembly and auto component manufacturing to deep interlinkages with critical industries such as steel, electronics, rubber, IT, and logistics. In recent years, India has seen exponential growth in vehicle production, with over 28 million units manufactured in 2023–24 alone. The industry’s contribution goes beyond industrial output, and it supports millions of direct and indirect jobs, spurs innovation, and is central to India’s green mobility transition, industrial ambitions, and trade strategy.

    The global automotive component market was valued at $2 trillion in 2022, with $700 billion traded across borders. Despite India’s strong manufacturing base, its share in the globally traded auto component market remains at just 3% (~$20 billion), highlighting a vast scope for expansion. India’s trade ratio in auto components is near-neutral (~0.99), with exports and imports nearly balancing each other. This also underlines the domestic sector’s limited penetration in high-value, high-precision segments such as engine and engine components, along with drive transmission and steering systems, where India holds just 2–4% of the global trade share. Bridging this gap requires structural reforms, strategic investments, and a coordinated industrial policy approach. With the right enabling conditions, India can triple exports to $60 billion, generate a $25 billion trade surplus, and create over 2-2.5 million direct jobs by 2030, propelling it toward becoming a globally competitive, innovation-driven manufacturing hub.

    Strategic Importance of the Automotive Sector

     

    • Contributes 7.1% to India’s GDP and 49% to manufacturing GDP.
    • Employs millions and supports critical linkages across steel, electronics, and IT sectors.
    • India’s current share in globally traded auto components is approximately 3% or 20 billion.

                                            India’s Vision for Automotive Industry

     

    This vision aligns with India’s aspirations to become a global manufacturing hub under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

    Global Trends Shaping the Sector

     

    1. Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs):

    • EVs are reshaping manufacturing priorities, with China producing over 8 million EVs in 2023.
    • The EU and the US are accelerating EV adoption through regulatory mandates and subsidies.
    • EVs are increasing the demand for batteries, semiconductors, and advanced materials.

     

    2. Digital and Advanced Manufacturing:

    • Integration of AI, robotics, digital twins, Internet of Things (IoT), and 3D printing is driving efficiency.
    • Many global automakers are investing heavily in creating smart factories, where AI, IoT, and robotics are integrated into every aspect of the production process. Countries like Germany and South Korea are leading in smart factory adoption.

     

    3. Sustainability and Circular Economy:

    • Automakers are moving toward carbon neutrality, material recycling, and energy efficiency.
    • Examples: BMW’s EV battery recycling and Volkswagen’s renewable energy sourcing.

     

    4. Sectoral Interdependence:

    • Auto industry is a major consumer of steel, electronics, rubber, glass, textiles, and IT services.
    • Increasing reliance on semiconductors and AI-driven software for innovative mobility solutions.

    Major Government Interventions

     

    1. Make in India: Launched in 2014, the Make in India initiative has provided a significant boost to the country’s manufacturing sector, particularly in automobiles. This policy promotes domestic manufacturing, reduces reliance on imports, and encourages foreign direct investment.

    2.Atmanirbhar Bharat: The Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aims to foster self-sufficiency in manufacturing and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign components. In the automotive sector, this has resulted in increased domestic production of critical components such as engines, transmissions, and EV batteries. The government has also extended support to start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the automotive space, helping them integrate into global supply chains.

    3.FAME India Scheme (Phases I & II): The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme has been pivotal in promoting clean mobility in India. Phase II, with an outlay of ₹11,500 crore, focuses on demand incentives for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and the development of public charging infrastructure. It also aims to promote technology platforms for EVs and create a robust domestic EV ecosystem.

    4. PM E-Drive Scheme (2024–26): Launched to accelerate EV adoption and reduce urban pollution, this scheme has a budget of ₹10,900 crore and targets large-scale procurement of electric vehicles:

    • 24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers
    • 3.2 lakh electric three-wheelers
    • Procurement of 14,028 electric buses by State Transport Undertakings (STUs)/public transport agencies
    • ₹2,000 crore earmarked for national-level charging infrastructure expansion.

     

    5. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Auto and ACC Batteries: With a total allocation of ₹44,038 crore (PLI scheme- INR 25,938 crore, PLI scheme for ACC Battery Storage- INR 18,100 crores), this flagship initiative aims to boost the domestic manufacturing of advanced automotive technologies, including EVs, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and advanced battery storage solutions. It provides financial incentives to OEMs and component manufacturers for investing in cutting-edge technologies, achieving economies of scale, and integrating into global supply chains. The scheme also prioritises domestic value addition, export readiness, and job creation through technology-driven innovation.

     

     

    Key Challenges Hindering the Global Value Chain’s Integration

     

    • 10% cost disadvantage for India versus China due to:
      • Higher raw material and machinery costs
      • 100% depreciation rate vs 50% in China (~3.4% cost burden)
      • High logistics, financing, and energy costs

     

    • Underperformance in high-precision segments:
      • India’s global share: Only 2–4% in engine and engine components, along with drive transmission and steering systems
    • Inadequate R&D ecosystem and limited IP ownership

    Proposed Interventions for GVC Integration

     

    Fiscal Measures:

    1. Operational Expenditure (Opex) Support: To scale up manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on capital expenditure (Capex) for tooling, dies, and infrastructure.
    2. Skill Development: Initiatives to build a talent pipeline critical for sustaining growth.
    3. R&D, Government facilitated IP transfer and Branding: Providing incentives for research, development, international branding to improve product differentiation and empowering MSMEs through IP transfers.
    4. Cluster Development: Fostering collaboration between firms through common facilities such as R&D and testing centers to strengthen the supply chain.

     

    Non-Fiscal Reforms:

    1. Industry 4.0 Adoption: Encouraging the integration of digital technologies and enhanced manufacturing standards to improve efficiency.
    2. International Collaboration: Promoting joint ventures (JVs), foreign collaborations, and free trade agreements (FTAs) to expand global market access.
    3. Ease of Doing Business: Simplifying regulatory processes, worker hour flexibility, supplier discovery & development and improving business conditions for automotive firms.

     

    Conclusion

     

    India’s automotive sector stands at a decisive inflection point, where focused reforms, policy clarity, and industry alignment can elevate it into the league of global leaders in automotive manufacturing. With the world shifting rapidly towards clean, smart, and connected mobility, India must accelerate its integration into global value chains by building competitiveness in high-precision components, fostering innovation, and deepening its export footprint. Over the next five years, the effective execution of planned interventions—ranging from skilling and infrastructure to R&D and global partnerships- will determine whether India becomes a hub for high-value auto components or remains a low-cost player in traditional segments. With the right mix of ambition and action, India can become a globally recognised supplier of next-generation mobility solutions.

     

    References

    · REPORT – Automotive Industry: Powering India’s participation in Global Value Chains –https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-04/Automotive-Industry-Powering-India-participation-in-GVC_Non-Confidential.pdf

    · https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2120977

    Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

    ****

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena / Vatsla Srivastava

    (Release ID: 2121826) Visitor Counter : 122

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Secretariat releases Policy Pulse on “Laws on safeguarding national security”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
     
         Today (April 15) is the National Security Education Day. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance has been in effect for one year since its passage by the Legislative Council (LegCo) in a historic unanimous vote on the Third Reading in March last year, while the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKNSL) will celebrate its fifth anniversary at the end of June this year. The LegCo Secretariat today released a Policy Pulse on “Laws on safeguarding national security”. This issue provides a brief overview of the key points of the dual legislation on national security, namely the HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, how the dual legislation properly protects human rights and ensures that the public will not be inadvertently caught by the law, its role in contributing to the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, as well as relevant discussions of LegCo along with suggestions by Members.
     
         National security is a matter of top priority for any state. The enactment of laws on safeguarding national security is an inherent right of every sovereign state, and also an international practice. The Policy Pulse outlines the latest situation of national security laws enacted by some foreign countries, including the Countering Foreign Interference Act introduced by Canada in 2024, and the New Zealand Parliament is also scrutinising the Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill aimed at addressing foreign interference. Meanwhile, the United States and the United Kingdom each has at least 21 pieces and 14 pieces of national security-related legislation respectively.
     
         The dual legislation on national security, together with the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of HKSAR, have jointly established a comprehensive and effective legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, reflecting the implementation of national security within the purview of the Central Authorities and as the constitutional duty of HKSAR.
     
         The Policy Pulse also highlights that since the implementation of the dual legislation on national security, Hong Kong ranks highly in a number of international ratings, including global financial centre status, economic freedom, inward foreign direct investment recipient, and world competitiveness. Hong Kong ranked as the world’s freest economy in the Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report, with the number of overseas companies based in Hong Kong stood at 9 960 in 2024, a nearrly 10 percent rise from the previous year. These achievements reflect the international community’s continued strong confidence in Hong Kong. They also attest to how improved laws and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security help maintain Hong Kong’s political and social stability and cultivate a more secure, liberal, open and expectable business environment, which plays a solid and fundamental role in safeguarding the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong, and further enabling the city’s advancement from stability to prosperity.
     
         The Safeguarding National Security Bill was passed by LegCo in a historic unanimous vote on the Third Reading on March 19, 2024. The Policy Pulse outlines LegCo’s scrutiny of the Bill and highlights Member’s views on the follow-up work after the Bill’s passage. Members suggested that various bureaux, departments, statutory bodies, etc., establish codes, procedures or guidelines to ensure that national security is regarded as an important consideration when discharging their day-to-day functions and implementing any programmes or projects. Members also considered that the Administration should ensure that public officers fully understand the contents of national security laws and abide by the requirements of these laws in discharging their duties.
     
         Members suggested the Administration step up public education on all fronts to enable the public, the business sector and investors to understand the implementation of the dual legislation on national security in a clear and easily comprehensible manner. The Administration should also effectively carry out its explanatory work to the international community, including making good use of the networks of overseas Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices and Invest Hong Kong to explain to various overseas sectors how the dual legislation on national security effectively safeguards national security in Hong Kong in accordance with the rule of law principle, while at the same time fully respects and protects human rights. Members expected that the Administration proactively enhance its efforts in attracting enterprises and investment so that Hong Kong could serve as a “super-connector” and a “super value-adder” for the world, as well as continuing to take the initiative to clarify and rebut inaccurate remarks and unwarranted smears against the HKSAR’s work on safeguarding national security.
     
         The detailed content of “Laws on safeguarding national security” is available on the LegCo Website. The Policy Pulse, published by the LegCo Secretariat, covers specific topics, offers a comprehensive overview of related policy developments and summarises key discussions in LegCo.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues order extending protections of Los Angeles area firestorm survivors from predatory real estate speculators

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 14, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom extended an executive order from January barring predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalued property offers to families in areas impacted by the Los Angeles area firestorms.

    LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order extending protections for Los Angeles area firestorms survivors from predatory land speculators making aggressive and unsolicited cash offers to purchase their property below fair market value.

    “California continues to support survivors of the Los Angeles area firestorms – especially ones vulnerable to those seeking to take advantage of communities that have already experienced devastating loss. We will continue working to protect and assist the people of Los Angeles as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The previous order, which was set to expire after April 14, has now been extended to July 1, 2025.

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    Apr 14, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring a special election for Assembly District 63 on August 26, 2025. The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: SPECIAL ELECTION PROCLAMATIONBY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Beneficient to Present at the Emerging Growth Conference on April 17, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beneficient (NASDAQ: BENF) (“Ben” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled platform providing exit opportunities and primary capital solutions and related trust and custody services to holders of alternative assets through its proprietary online platform AltAccess, is pleased to announce that it will present a brief corporate update at the Emerging Growth Conference on Thursday, April 17, 2025. The Company will host a webcast group presentation at 4:10 PM Eastern Time.

    Investors can register in advance to attend the conference and receive any updates at: https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1705403&tp_key=612b99c876&sti=benf.

    If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event on EmergingGrowth.com and on the Emerging Growth YouTube Channel, http://www.YouTube.com/EmergingGrowthConference.

    About Beneficient
    Beneficient (Nasdaq: BENF) – Ben, for short – is on a mission to democratize the global alternative asset investment market by providing traditionally underserved investors − mid-to-high net worth individuals, small-to-midsized institutions and General Partners seeking exit options, anchor commitments and valued-added services for their funds− with solutions that could help them unlock the value in their alternative assets. Ben’s AltQuote® tool provides customers with a range of potential exit options within minutes, while customers can log on to the AltAccess® portal to explore opportunities and receive proposals in a secure online environment.

    Its subsidiary, Beneficient Fiduciary Financial, L.L.C., received its charter under the State of Kansas’ Technology-Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institution (TEFFI) Act and is subject to regulatory oversight by the Office of the State Bank Commissioner.

    For more information, visit www.trustben.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

    Contacts
    Matt Kreps: 214-597-8200, mkreps@darrowir.com
    Michael Wetherington: 214-284-1199, mwetherington@darrowir.com
    Investor Relations: investors@beneficient.com

    Disclaimer and Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Transactions, including receipt of required approvals and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions and excepted timing of closing of the Transactions, and expectations of future plans, strategies, and benefits of the Transactions. The words ”anticipate,” “believe,” ”continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” ”plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, them. Because such statements are based on expectations as to future financial and operating results and are not statements of fact, actual results may differ materially from those projected.

    Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others: the ultimate outcome of the transaction, including obtaining the requisite vote of securityholders; the Company’s ability to meet expectations regarding the timing and completion of the transaction; and the risks, uncertainties, and factors set forth under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, subsequent events, or circumstances or other changes affecting such statements except to the extent required by applicable law.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and, except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Lists WalletConnect (WCT) with Airdrop+ Event Offering 273,000 WCT & 50,000 USDT in Rewards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, announced it will list WalletConnect Network (WCT) on April 15, 2025 (UTC), accompanied by Airdrop+ rewards totaling 273,000 WCT and 50,000 USDT for users.

    WalletConnect is a leading network enabling seamless on-chain user experiences. As the backbone for wallet-to-DApp communication across blockchains like Ethereum, Solana, and Cosmos, it facilitates secure interactions without requiring users to switch wallets. With over 275 million connections and 45 million users worldwide, WalletConnect empowers users to engage with DeFi, NFTs, swaps, and staking applications through a unified interface. This infrastructure drives Web3 innovation by bridging wallets, applications, and blockchains effortlessly.

    $WCT is the native token of WalletConnect, used for network incentives, governance, and transaction fees. It also supports validator staking rewards and decentralized decision-making. By staking $WCT, holders contribute to network security and protocol upgrades, ensuring a decentralized, permissionless, and community-driven ecosystem.

    To celebrate the official listing of WalletConnect (WCT) on MEXC, MEXC is launching a limited-time Airdrop+ Event, open to both new and existing users.

    Event Period:
    April 9, 2025, 10:00 – April 25, 2025, 10:00 (UTC)

    Here are the key benefits of the event:
    Benefit 1: Deposit and share 195,000 WCT (Exclusive for new users)
    Benefit 2: Futures Challenge — Trade to share 50,000 USDT in Futures bonus (Open to all users)
    Benefit 3: Invite new users and share 78,000 WCT (Open to all users)

    For full event details and participation rules, please visit here.

    MEXC has established itself as an industry leader by consistently providing users with early access to promising crypto projects. In 2024, MEXC introduced 2,376 new tokens, with 1,716 initial listings. According to the latest TokenInsight report, from November 1, 2024, to February 15, 2025, MEXC led the industry with an impressive 461 spot listings. Additionally, during the bi-weekly periods, MEXC maintained a high listing frequency, consistently ranking among the top six exchanges and demonstrating its ability to capture market trends quickly. MEXC will continue to innovate and expand its offerings, providing users with the best opportunities in the ever-evolving crypto space.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 36 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Source

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MEXC. 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. 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. 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.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.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 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/047b7c55-0330-4413-a078-b67cc1c448ec

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Coby Sammis Joins NOIA as Vice President of Government Affairs

    Source: National Ocean Industries Association – NOIA

    Headline: Coby Sammis Joins NOIA as Vice President of Government Affairs

    For Immediate Release: Monday, April 14, 2025NOIA .org
    Coby Sammis Joins NOIA as Vice President of Government Affairs
    Washington, D.C. – The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) is pleased to announce that Coby Sammis is taking over as our new Vice President of Government Affairs. NOIA President Erik Milito said:
    “We are thrilled to welcome Coby Sammis to the NOIA team. Coby brings extensive experience from his tenure with Congressman Clay Higgins, where he expertly shaped legislative strategies and forged coalitions on a host of issues critical to the offshore energy sector. A Louisiana native, Coby possesses a deep understanding of the Gulf Coast’s unique history and its vital connection to offshore energy, environmental stewardship, and national security.
    “As we tackle a dynamic 2025 landscape—encompassing oil and gas, wind, carbon sequestration, ocean minerals, and more—Coby will be invaluable. I, together with the entire NOIA team, look forward to working with him to advance America’s offshore energy future and champion smart policy solutions.”
    About Coby SammisCoby Sammis joins the National Ocean Industries Association as the Vice President of Government Affairs, bringing extensive experience in policy advising and coalition building. Previously, Coby served as a Senior Policy Advisor to Congressman Clay Higgins (LA-03) and had been with the office since 2018. In this role, he provided strategic counsel on a diverse portfolio of issues critical to the offshore energy sector, including appropriations, coastal infrastructure, conservation, energy, environmental policy, finance, foreign affairs, natural resources, sportsmen’s issues, and infrastructure.
    Coby played a pivotal role in shaping legislative priorities, developing strategies, and fostering coalitions to advance key initiatives. Coby’s perspective will help NOIA advocate for the Gulf of America and the larger U.S. offshore energy sector and how they intertwine with environmental stewardship, economic prosperity, and national security.
    Coby is an alumnus of McNeese State University.
    ##
    About NOIA The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councils’ joint green skills and training project benefits businesses

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    A Green Skills upskilling project offering free and subsidised courses designed to support the move to NetZero in the region has been hailed as a great success. 180 qualifications were achieved by local people who took advantage of the free training.

    Launched in the summer of 2024, the Green Skills upskilling project has been a collaborative effort to provide green skills training to help people gain skills for the future. This initiative is a partnership between Portsmouth City Council and Havant Borough Council, City of Portsmouth College, and SERT Training.

    Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants highlighting the immediate application of their training to their work practices and the expansion of services they can offer to customers. Training took place at City of Portsmouth College and SERT Training, both of which offer modern, industry-specific resources.

    Brad Howick, from TVR Electrical in Havant said:

    “The Green Skills funding helped our business through the EV charger course. This was extremely beneficial to have more engineers qualified to install EV chargers, giving us more flexibility with our scheduling.”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council with responsibility for economic development said:

     “It is fantastic to see the impact of collaboration in action across our region via our Green Skills upskilling project. As we focus on a more sustainable future, investing in our workforce is essential, and these new green skills are enabling businesses and residents alike to adapt and thrive in our economy moving forward.”

    Cllr. Phil Munday, Leader of Havant Borough Council, said:

    “We are delighted to have secured a grant from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund which has enabled us to help and train many working in the construction trade.

    By developing the skills and knowledge of those who live or work locally it will benefit us in making commercial buildings and homes in the borough more energy-efficient in the future.

    “As a council, we are committed to tackling the climate emergency head-on. So, it is great that Havant Borough Council and Portsmouth City Council have been able to work in partnership with SERT Group, and City of Portsmouth College who have provided the training to equip residents and businesses with green skills that will, in time help to decarbonise the borough.

    “Industries are rapidly moving towards green skills so being prepared for this shift by upskilling the next generation of workers will benefit everyone.”

    Using UK Shared Prosperity Funding, this initiative focused on increasing skills and awareness of sustainable and net zero practices. Some of the courses on offer included:

    • Electrical Energy Storage Systems
    • Solar PV Installation
    • Solar & Battery Combined
    • Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) Training
    • Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Point

    Mark Edwards, CEO SERT Group said:

    “We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with Havant Borough Council, Portsmouth City Council, and City of Portsmouth College on this UK Shared Prosperity Fund grant for green upskilling. Over the past few months, SERT has upskilled 66 residents through 97 accredited upskill courses in sustainable energy solutions, including solar panel installation, battery storage, EV charging points, and air source heat pump design, installation, and maintenance. These initiatives are creating new career opportunities, driving renewable energy adoption, and supporting our collective journey towards net zero—making a real impact in our communities.”

    Katy Quinn, Principal and CEO City of Portsmouth College said:

    “Sustainability is always high on our agenda, so we were delighted at the opportunity to access the prosperity funding. It meant we were able to offer plumbing and heating engineers from micro, small, and medium-sized businesses three one-day courses completely free of charge. It was fantastic to collaborate closely with Portsmouth City Council, Havant Borough Council, and SERT to deliver this training, enhancing critical skills and making a difference for the people who live and work in our region.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council’s business growth team provides support to hundreds of city businesses

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Forty five businesses benefitted through its grants programme – leading to the creation of 83 new jobs and the safeguarding of a further 179 jobs in Wolverhampton.

    The business growth team exceeded its targets using the £1.3 million UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) government funding it was allocated through Business Growth West Midlands to help companies with capital investment and energy efficiency measures.

    The total projected growth in turnover of the businesses it supported with grants is expected to equate to around £14.5 million in the year ahead.

    Also providing free local diagnostic and business support service, the team dealt with 700 business enquiries over the past 12 months and 200 diagnostic checks were carried out.

    Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “In Wolverhampton, we are utilising the UKSPF funding to support SMEs in maximising their offer and capitalising on opportunities being generated by investment in our city.

    “Throughout 2024/25 our business growth team has collaborated with small but highly ambitious businesses to help them make and secure investment, create and sustain jobs, develop new products and services, and access new UK and overseas markets.

    “Our city economy is underpinned by creative thinking, innovation, ambition, skills, and sheer hard work and we want to do everything we can to support this through our grants programme.

    “I would urge businesses to head to the business growth webpage and find out exactly what funding is available to them.”

    Gabitie and Ceandess are 2 of the Wolverhampton businesses supported by the grants.

    Metal processing company Gabitie specialises in steel structures and fabrications. Grant support towards the acquisition of a laser cutter and a standing seam cladding machine will enable the business to launch new ranges such as garden offices, and to focus on entering the lucrative domestic extensions market.

    Ceandess supplies and manufactures a range of fuel and oil fillers, base and filler assemblies, and fuel engine and hydraulic filter caps. The acquisition of a tube bending and forming machine will provide them with a strong platform to access the lucrative Australian and Canadian mining markets by offering formed tubes alongside their existing range.

    The window for expressions of interest in Wolverhampton Council’s latest round of business grants to support city businesses with capital investment and low carbon projects is now open and will close on 30 April, 2025.

    It is likely the average grant available will be up to £20,000 for projects costing £40,000 or more.
    Higher grants could be available depending on the impact of the investment – but grants will be capped at no more than 50% of the project cost.

    Full details of grant eligibility, impact measures and the application processes, along with details of some of the other new business support programmes, can be found at Business Growth Wolverhampton.

    Applications for the grants are on a competitive basis, subject to availability of funds, and distributed at the discretion of the council.

    If you need help with your grant application or have a general query, you can get in touch by emailing business.development@wolverhampton.gov.uk or calling the business support phone line on 01902 555572 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Thursday or from 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Gate.io’s Strategic MENA Expansion: Launching Arabic Services and Achieving 165% New Signups

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, Panama, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gate.io, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, has officially announced the expansion of its operations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, unveiling a fully localized Arabic experience aimed at better serving the needs of users across the Arabic-speaking world.

    This strategic move is part of Gate.io’s global mission to engage more deeply with emerging markets, delivering a user experience that is culturally aligned, accessible, and designed with local users in mind. Gate.io has introduced a comprehensive suite of services specifically tailored for the MENA region, including a fully localized Arabic website and mobile app with customized UI/UX and interactive product education. The platform now also offers Arabic-speaking customer support, ensuring a more personalized experience for local users. Furthermore, Gate.io has integrated P2P trading with local fiat onboarding, making it easier for MENA users to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies using their native currencies. Additionally, the platform has launched its first-ever Arabic-language YouTube tutorial series to provide educational content that caters to the unique needs of Arabic-speaking crypto enthusiasts. Along with these initiatives, the educational programs and community outreach, combined with collaborations with regional crypto creators and professionals, will help foster a more vibrant and dynamic cryptocurrency landscape in the MENA region.

    During the first quarter of 2025, the Gate.io MENA team achieved significant growth and engagement. New signups surged by 165%, driven by business development and community campaigns, while daily active users in the region increased by 23%. This growth underscores the platform’s expanding influence and user engagement in this key market.

    Dr. Han, Founder and CEO of Gate.io, said, “As a global platform, our commitment is not just to offer access, but to make crypto understandable, inclusive, and secure—especially in regions where adoption is growing rapidly. Our MENA expansion reflects our belief in the immense potential of Arabic-speaking communities to shape the future of Web3.”

    “Our commitment to the Arabic-speaking community goes beyond simple translation. We are investing in long-term, sustainable growth by building a secure and intelligent crypto ecosystem tailored for local users.” remarked the Regional Director of Gate.io MENA.

    Gate.io’s approach in the MENA region goes beyond simply providing a trading platform; the company is committed to building an inclusive and dynamic ecosystem. The platform will continue to advance Arabic-focused influencer and KOC programs, community-driven educational campaigns, fast and localized customer service, and strategic collaborations with Arabic crypto media and knowledge platforms.

    This expansion marks a critical milestone in Gate.io’s ongoing mission to engage more deeply with emerging markets and provide a platform that caters to the diverse needs of local users. Founded in 2013, Gate.io has grown to serve over 22 million users globally. The platform offers a wide range of products, including spot and futures trading, P2P, copy trading, DeFi services, and more. Gate.io remains committed to regulatory compliance, user safety, and innovation in Web3 and crypto finance. By investing in the MENA region, Gate.io seeks to empower users to fully engage with the evolving world of Web3.

    For more information, visit the Arabic website, download the app from the App Store or Google Play, and follow Gate.io on Twitter at @Gateio_Arabic.

    Media Contact:
    Elaine Wang at elaine.w@gate.io

    Disclaimer
    This content does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or recommendation. You should always seek independent professional advice before making investment decisions. Gate.io may restrict or prohibit certain services in specific jurisdictions. For more details, please read the User Agreement: https://www.gate.io/zh/user-agreement.

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Gate.io. 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. 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. 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. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. 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 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/f8d154f3-b428-4e7b-8a3a-90f661638af1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: US and China headed for currency war: warns deVere CEO

    Source: deVere Group

    April 15 2025 – Trump’s tariff-led trade war is pushing the world’s two largest economies toward a new front: a currency war— “one that will be gradual, deliberate, and globally disruptive,” warns the CEO of global financial advisory giant, deVere Group (ref. https://www.devere-group.com )

    With US tariffs on Chinese goods now averaging 145%, Beijing is under growing pressure to respond. But with traditional trade retaliation options constrained, a new strategy is forming—one based on a controlled, step-by-step weakening of the yuan.

    The signs are already clear. The offshore yuan dropped to a record low of 7.4287 against the dollar. Onshore, the currency sank to its weakest since 2007. The People’s Bank of China, while insisting on stability, has been setting the yuan’s midpoint fix at levels not seen in years.

    Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, says: “China is unlikely to openly weaponize the yuan.

    “But under mounting tariff strain, they’re likely to let it slip—slowly and carefully. It won’t look like a headline war, but it will have headline consequences.”

    There’s little appetite in Beijing for a sharp devaluation.

    The memory of 2015’s capital exodus—when $700 billion fled Chinese markets after a sudden currency move—still haunts policymakers.

    A similar episode today could trigger “damaging capital flight” and erode already fragile domestic confidence.

    He continues: “Instead, China is walking a narrow path: using small, incremental devaluations to support exporters without inviting panic. It’s an approach aimed at shielding growth while maintaining the image of financial control. But even a modest yuan decline matters.”

    A weaker Chinese currency lowers the real cost of exports, softening the blow from US tariffs. It also pressures other Asian economies to consider devaluing in response, setting off ripple effects through emerging markets. For the US, it complicates inflation dynamics—import prices may fall, but global volatility may rise.

    “Currency shifts don’t happen in a vacuum,” explains Nigel Green.

    “They reshape capital flows, unsettle risk assets, and provoke reactions from other central banks. For global investors, ignoring this would be a serious error.

    “Unlike the free-floating dollar or yen, the yuan is tightly managed. 

    “Every day, the Chinese central bank sets a central reference rate, allowing only limited movement around it. That system gives Chinese authorities control and it also gives them the tools to engineer a slow, sustained decline without outright triggering alarm bells.

    “This approach fits a broader pattern in modern financial conflict: avoid sudden moves, but gradually change the terms of trade. The goal isn’t shock. It’s attrition.”

    The bigger concern is what comes next. If a slow yuan weakening begins to reverse capital inflows, Beijing could be forced to tighten controls further, or accelerate its depreciation. Either route could stoke fresh volatility across currencies, bonds, and equities.

    The deVere CEO says: “Investors should be watching the yuan as closely as they watch the Fed or earnings season. The slow-motion currency shift between the US and China is central to how this phase of global economic rivalry will play out.”

    He concludes: “I believe we’re entering a new stage of financial confrontation—less visible, but no less strategic. The yuan is becoming a pressure valve, and investors need to understand what’s coming.

    “The trade war may have opened with tariffs, but it won’t end there.”

    deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Education Secretary visits University of Dundee

    Source: Scottish Government

    Taskforce membership is announced.

    Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has met with staff and students as she visited the University of Dundee’s School of Life Sciences.

    It came as the wider membership of an external Taskforce, set up to advise the University on its current financial challenges, was announced, including business and industry organisations, trades unions, enterprise agencies, NHS and academic representatives.

    Visiting the Drug Discovery and Medical Research units at the school, Ms Gilruth heard about how its work has helped contribute to the treatment of conditions like Parkinson’s Disease.

    The university was ranked top in Biological Sciences in the most recent Research Excellence Framework, a UK-wide assessment of research quality at higher education institutions.

    Meeting with university Principal Shane O’Neill, the Education Secretary underlined the Scottish Government’s determination to support the University through its current financial challenges, with a wide-ranging package of financial support and expertise in place to help secure its future.

    Ms Gilruth said: 

    “It was inspiring to hear about the world-leading and life changing work being undertaken at the Life Sciences school here at Dundee. This is vitally important research which underlines the strength of academic excellence and innovation in Scotland

    “This work and research also has a major impact on inward investment for the area and the Scottish Government is clear it should be a vital component of our knowledge economy for the coming generations.

    “We know that this unit and the wider Life Sciences school at Dundee attracts students, researchers and cutting-edge companies from across the globe to the city.

    “That’s why this Government has been clear in our determination to ensure that the University of Dundee is fully supported and the wider membership of the taskforce we are setting out today will provide the right mix knowledge and experience to help advise on the current financial challenges.”

    Professor Shane O’Neill, Interim Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, said:

    “We are extremely grateful to the Scottish Government for their continued support and we have been delighted to welcome the Cabinet Secretary today to see first hand the impactful work of our researchers in Life Sciences.

    “We will continue to work with the Government and the Scottish Funding Council towards a secure and successful future for the University, and we will also engage fully with the Advisory Taskforce regarding our wider impact on Dundee, the Tay Cities region and beyond.”

    Background

    In addition to the Chair Alan Langlands University of Dundee, City of Dundee Council, Scottish Funding Council and the Scottish Government, the membership of the Taskforce will include:

    • Universities Scotland
    • Abertay University
    • University of St Andrews
    • Dundee and Angus College
    • Trade Unions representation
    • Student Union representation
    • Tay Cities Regional Economic  Partnership / City Deal
    • Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce
    • Scottish Enterprise
    • Skills Development Scotland
    • NHS Education for Scotland
    • Business representation
    • Alumni/graduates representation

    The Scottish Government has provided £25 million to the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) to support universities like Dundee facing immediate financial challenges. This is on top of £1.1 billion of investment already in the budget for university teaching and research

    Deputy First Minister chairs a regular cross-government group in support of SFC and to consider the issues

    REF 2021 in Life Sciences | University of Dundee, UK

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: T-Max Lending Saves Sacramento Project with $18 Million Loan, Proving Unrivaled Financing Prowess

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — T-Max Lending, a premier direct private lender in San Diego, California, has closed an $18 million loan for a 150-unit multi-family development in Elk Grove, Sacramento County, rescuing it from foreclosure. This high-stakes deal showcases T-Max Lending’s ability to deliver fast, reliable financing where others falter, cementing its status as California’s standout lender.

    This project’s development began with the property purchased in July 2021. The plans for the project received full approval in December 2022. However, litigation delays pushed the project back an additional 18 months, causing considerable financial strain on the borrower. The borrower faced foreclosure after three other lenders issued commitment letters they couldn’t fulfill. His current lender, fed up with broken promises, offered no more leeway. He was referred to T-Max Lending by a client who closed a $15.5 million hotel development with T-Max in Charleston, SC, in February 2025. That Charleston referral, praising T-Max’s flawless, rapid execution, erased the borrower’s doubts. “After hearing how smooth that $15.5 million deal went, I knew T-Max was my shot,” he said. T-Max proved it, closing the loan at breakneck speed despite the tight timeline.

    Needing $18 million, he sought $15.8 million to clear his lender (with accrued interest) and $2 million for site prep: undergrounding power poles, code updates, demolition, abatement, and grading. T-Max Lending acted fast, delivering a 24-month, 9.5% interest-only loan with an interest reserve, ensuring the developer could go vertical without cash-flow stress.

    “We understand that timing is everything, especially in real estate development,” said Kenneth Richards, CEO of T-Max Lending. “We saw a client who’d poured everything into this project, and we weren’t about to let it slip away. That’s what sets us apart, we deliver. This is a perfect example of how T-Max Lending works tirelessly to provide solutions where others can’t or won’t.”

    The Sacramento development is poised to make a significant impact on the local community by adding much-needed rental housing units to the area. Located in a high-demand residential market, the 180 unit project is expected to meet the growing need for affordable and well-constructed housing in Sacramento, contributing to the city’s economic development and growth. The project is strategically located near essential services, transit access, and key employment hubs, making it a prime location for prospective residents.

    T-Max Lending’s proactive approach to financing and its focus on understanding the unique challenges faced by borrowers set it apart from other lenders. As a direct private lender, T-Max Lending remains committed to providing fast, flexible, and reliable financial solutions, especially when dealing with high-pressure situations like the one faced by this Sacramento developer. By expediting funding and offering a customized loan solution, T-Max Lending demonstrated its ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver results.

    This deal underscores T-Max Lending’s reputation as a leader in the private lending sector, particularly in California. The company continues to expand its footprint by providing tailored solutions to developers, investors, and borrowers, helping to drive forward-thinking projects and foster growth in the state’s ever-evolving real estate market.

    For more information about T-Max Lending and its loan products, visit www.tmaxlending.com

    About T-Max Lending
    T-Max Lending is a direct private lender based in San Diego, CA, offering flexible financing solutions for residential, commercial, and mixed-use real estate projects. With a focus on quick and efficient loan processing, T-Max Lending provides funding for a variety of real estate needs, including development, construction, and refinancing. The company prides itself on its ability to deliver financing solutions where traditional lenders may hesitate, ensuring that its clients have the capital they need to succeed. From Charleston’s $15.5 million hotel to Sacramento’s $18 million lifeline, T-Max turns challenges into wins with speed and precision.

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    T-Max Lending LLC
    619 259 0177
    Info@tmaxlending.com
    www.tmaxlending.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bbc9f595-0a3f-44f4-9f3f-23fd06fbc629

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile’s EngageLab Powers the Success of a Leading Chinese Cross-Border B2B E-Commerce Platform Amid U.S. Market Surge

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that its subsidiary EngageLab, a world-leading provider of AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solutions, is honored to support the remarkable growth of a prominent Chinese cross-border B2B e-commerce platform, which recently surged to the #2 spot on the U.S. free iPhone app rankings, second only to ChatGPT. This unprecedented rise highlights the platform’s growing influence in the U.S. market and underscores the importance of cutting-edge email solutions in driving its success.

    The platform’s rapid ascent comes amidst heightened interest in Chinese cross-border e-commerce, fueled by viral TikTok videos showcasing Chinese factories and their role in global manufacturing. This surge in visibility has led to a dramatic increase in app downloads, with U.S. downloads growing by 940% in just a few days. EngageLab’s advanced email solutions have played a pivotal role in helping the platform capitalize on this momentum, ensuring seamless communication with its global customer base and driving sustained engagement.

    About Aurora Mobile Limited
    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:
    Aurora Mobile Limited
    E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

    Christensen
    In China
    Ms. Xiaoyan Su
    Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
    E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

    In US
    Ms. Linda Bergkamp
    Phone: +1-480-614-3004
    Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sussex cafe owner took £150,000 in Covid funds for dormant companies

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Sussex cafe owner took £150,000 in Covid funds for dormant companies

    He also attempted to strike-off one of the companies to avoid repaying the loan

    • Mehmet Akyuz fraudulently applied for three Bounce Back Loans for his organic food shop and cafe and leather import business 

    • Akyuz secured £150,000 in funds when both companies were dormant and not trading 

    • He was sentenced for fraud by false representation following Insolvency Service investigations

    A Sussex cafe owner who took £150,000 in Covid support funds for two companies which were not trading at the start of the pandemic has been sentenced. 

    Mehmet Akyuz, 36, fraudulently obtained three maximum-value Bounce Back Loans worth £50,000 each in 2020 for his Green and Hove Limited and Leathers Wear Limited companies. 

    Both Green and Hove, trading as Organic Earth Cafe, and Leathers Wear, were dormant at the time of Akyuz’s applications. 

    Akyuz, of Conway Street, Brighton and Hove, was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years, when he appeared at Hove Crown Court on Monday 14 April. 

    He was also disqualified as a company director for five years and ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work.

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Mehmet Akyuz’s actions in fraudulently applying for three Bounce Back Loans he was not entitled to were completely unacceptable. 

    This was taxpayers’ money designed to support small businesses through the pandemic and should not have been exploited in such a cynical manner. 

    The Insolvency Service remains committed to investigating these cases and bringing fraudsters such as Akyuz to justice.

    Green and Hove and Leathers Wear were incorporated in February and March 2019 with Akyuz as the sole director. The former was a retail food and grocery store with a cafe attached while the latter was described by Akyuz as an importer of leather goods such as bags and belts. 

    However, neither was trading at the time Akyuz made the fraudulent applications to the banks in the summer and autumn of 2020. 

    Akyuz fraudulently applied for the £50,000 loan on behalf of Green and Hove in August 2020, claiming the company’s turnover was £270,000. 

    This declaration was untrue, as Insolvency Service investigations found that the company filed dormant accounts in 2020, 2021 and 2022. 

    Between September 2020 and January 2021, more than £36,000 of the loan was transferred directly to Akyuz. The remainder of the money was paid out in miscellaneous, one-off payments. 

    Akyuz committed further fraudulent offences in October 2020, when he applied to two separate banks for £50,000 Bounce Back Loans on behalf of Leathers Wear. 

    In the applications, Akyuz falsely declared that the company had a turnover of £215,000 and £225,000. 

    However, Leathers Wear also filed dormant accounts in 2020, 2021 and 2022 and was not trading when the application was made. 

    The funds were again transferred into Akyuz’s personal account and not used for business purposes. 

    Akyuz unsuccessfully applied to have Leathers Wear struck-off the Companies House register in June 2022 in an attempt to avoid repaying the loan. 

    The Insolvency Service is seeking to recover the fraudulently obtained funds under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU Launches Innovative AI Service for Dental Health Diagnostics

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Startup Studio of Novosibirsk State University with the support of the Coion syndicate, presented an innovative development – an analyzer of dental and oral health. It is implemented in several formats – a mobile application, a Telegram bot, a VKontakte application, and generates a set of recommendations for dental care for the user based on a photo. The service is based on the original methodology of Elena Leontyeva, Associate Professor of the Department of Dentistry and Advanced Training at the Rostov Medical University, Candidate of Medical Sciences, supplemented by machine vision technologies.

    — This method was developed several years ago, and the goal was to motivate patients to maintain oral hygiene. It was initially created for general use: a doctor can use it for screening, and patients or sales consultants in specialized stores can use it to select the most suitable toothpastes and hygiene products in each specific case, — said Elena Leontyeva.

    To use the algorithms developed by the Rostov scientist, no special medical education is required. When Elena learned about the NSU startup “Smart Mirror”, she approached its developers with a proposal to create a similar service, but aimed at oral hygiene – detection of signs of inflammatory formations, early stages of caries, etc. At the same time, the service does not replace a doctor, but helps to notice problems at an early stage, making primary diagnostics as accessible as possible.

    We remind you that it was developed by the NSU Startup Studio as part of the development of technological entrepreneurship telegram bot “Smart Mirror” was introduced earlier this year. It can detect several skin conditions, rate your skin health as a percentage, and recognize signs of several common problems. If it detects your skin as healthy, it will advise you to continue your current skin care routine and use sunscreen. If the Smart Mirror suspects any skin abnormalities, it will advise you to see a specialist for a more detailed diagnosis or problem determination, and then for treatment.

    Similar principles are used in the operation of the new product, called SmileScan.

    — This application is a product of three-way cooperation. On the one hand, a medical scientist from Rostov, the creator of the very method of analyzing the condition of teeth, when a single recommendation mechanism is formed from disparate data. On the other hand, the NSU Startup Studio, which contributed its experience in working with machine vision and other modern information technologies. And the third party is the Coion syndicate, which took on the closure of expenses during the project. As a result, we received an interesting technological solution and a successful example of translating the results of intellectual activity into a marketable software product financed by a private company, — noted the director of the NSU Startup Studio Maria Galyamova.

    Today, the service is already working in Telegram — @dentalcheckupai_bot, and it is free for the user, and the investor company expects to benefit through indirect commercialization (offering the user products of certain brands, affiliate links, etc.).

    — And the most important thing for Coion as a business structure is that many startups develop due to hypergrowth. We form a pool of users around the application, the base of which is capital in itself, since they are interesting for other companies, — explained the managing partner of the Coion syndicate Evgeny Ivanov.

    Such projects with indirect commercialization are one of the key areas of work of the startup studio, because many potential partners are focused on the so-called deep-tech. And it is in this area that the level of primary sales is not so important as the potential of the technology underlying the startup as a driver of further growth, emphasized Maria Galyamova.

    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 China: Multiple indicators show continued recovery of China’s economy

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s economy has reported strengthened momentum since the beginning of 2025, despite rising global uncertainty and volatility, with steady growth in foreign trade, robust social financing expansion, and manufacturing activity picking up pace.

    Here is a set of the latest data that highlights a continued recovery in the world’s second-largest economy.

    — China’s total goods imports and exports in yuan terms expanded 1.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of this year. In particular, exports during the period rose 6.9 percent.

    — During the first three months, the newly added social financing amounted to 15.18 trillion yuan (2.11 trillion U.S. dollars), representing a 2.37 trillion yuan increase from a year ago. New yuan loans stood at 9.78 trillion yuan, and the M2, a broad measure of money supply that covers cash in circulation and all deposits, increased 7 percent.

    — The purchasing managers’ index (PMI) for China’s manufacturing sector climbed for a second straight month to 50.5 in March, the highest figure since March 2024, indicating continued improvement in industrial sentiment. The non-manufacturing PMI came in at 50.8 in March, up 0.4 percentage points from the previous month.

    — China’s foreign exchange reserves have remained higher than 3.2 trillion U.S. dollars for 16 straight months, reflecting resilient economic fundamentals and a strong capacity to handle global turbulence.

    — The market of new energy vehicles saw robust expansion in the first quarter, with production surging 50.4 percent year on year to 3.18 million units and sales up 47.1 percent to 3.08 million units. Meanwhile, total auto output and sales also registered double-digit growth in the period.

    — China’s express delivery volume has surpassed 50 billion parcels as of April 11, reaching the milestone 18 days earlier than in 2024. The figure translates to roughly 35 packages per person so far this year, with around 500 million parcels crisscrossing the country each day.

    — China’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) saw improved business performances, as an industrial index, based on a survey of 3,000 SMEs across eight major industries, stood at 89.5 in the first quarter, 0.5 points higher than in the previous quarter. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds welcomes £2.3million funding to support more people into work

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds City Council is welcoming the announcement that it is set to receive £2.3million of funding to help more people find and maintain work.

    The funding is administered through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority as part of the response to central government’s Get Britain Working reforms.

    A report to the council’s Executive Board outlines the intention for the funding to be used to extend and enhance the already existing Leeds Employment Hub.

    The hub and associated programmes will support around 1,400 Leeds residents who are either unemployed, economically inactive or in work at risk of losing their job as a result of a disability and or long-term health condition.

    The Employment Hub has its own employment advisors based in the local communities and offer individual support and guidance to support people in finding work and learning opportunities.

    As part of the scheme, the aim is to open up grants for application by voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations looking to help people into employment. Priority will be given to projects targeting young people, residents of deprived wards, care leavers, older workers with low skill levels or physically demanding jobs, individuals with caring responsibilities, lone parents, ex-offenders, and people experiencing homelessness. 

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “We know that having a job or an apprenticeship can make huge difference to someone’s mental and physical health, and their life situation.

    “Our Employment Hub delivers local support across all communities in Leeds. We welcome this funding to be able to extend the service and make it even better, with a focus on supporting people with health conditions gain meaningful employment and prevent people from falling out of work.

    “This will help us reduce the number of people who are economically inactive, address inequalities and improve the lives of people in some of our most deprived areas.”

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Urgent Global Action Needed to Prevent Greater Regional Instability as Sudan War Enters Third Year

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Geneva/ Port Sudan, 15 April 2025 – As the brutal war in Sudan entered its third year today, the International Organization of Migration (IOM) called for immediate, coordinated international action to help alleviate the unimaginable scale of human suffering caused by the conflict and to prevent even greater instability across the region.

    The conflict has triggered the world’s largest displacement crisis and one of the most severe humanitarian emergencies. More than 11.3 million people are now internally displaced —8.6 million of them uprooted by the current conflict—while an additional 3.9 million have fled across borders into neighbouring countries in the past two years alone, desperately seeking safety, food, and shelter.

    Today, over 30 million people—two-thirds of Sudan’s population—are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, including 16 million children.

    “The war has pushed Sudan to the brink. Thousands of lives have been lost to violence, families torn apart, and the hopes and aspirations of millions shattered in the face of starvation, disease, and the complete collapse of the economy,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “And even with the violence, many displaced people are attempting to return to their homes, only to find total devastation. Sudan desperately needs humanitarian aid, and equally important, longer-term investment to ensure people can return safely, and that they, and their communities, can recover and rebuild their lives.”

    Concurrently, as thousands struggle to survive in the ravaged Darfur region, humanitarians have a rapidly shrinking window to scale cross-border operations from Chad before the incoming rains disrupt this critical humanitarian lifeline.

    With continued cross-border displacement and fragile situations in neighbouring countries like South Sudan and Chad, the risk of regional destabilization is growing. Humanitarian response must be complemented with durable and sustainable solutions for returnees, refugees, their host communities and governments.

    Since the outbreak of the conflict, IOM has provided lifesaving assistance and protection – including emergency shelter, water, sanitation, and health services – to nearly four million people across Sudan and neighbouring countries.  Through its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), IOM is also providing vital data to guide the entire humanitarian response plans.

    In Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, IOM is assisting newly arrived refugees and returnees through border reception, onward transportation, health screenings, and basic relief. It also works with host communities to promote social cohesion and resilience – key to preventing further instability.

    Despite the scale of need, IOM’s response plan is only ten percent funded as of April 2025. Without immediate funding, operations will be severely disrupted. Data collection will halt. Over 100 humanitarian partners will lose access to essential supplies. Millions will be left without life-saving support.

    IOM urgently appeals to the international community for immediate and sustained funding to scale up operations; these include life-saving services under health, protection, movement assistance, shelter, and water, sanitation, and hygiene support, as well as support to key enabling services for the broader humanitarian response. Humanitarian partners must not be left without the tools to respond.

    “The people of Sudan cannot afford to be kept waiting. The international community must deliver a clear and united message: the people of Sudan are not forgotten,” DG Pope said.

    For more information, please contact IOM Media Centre

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met brings leader of fraud platform to justice  

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A massive worldwide operation led by the Met has seen a prolific cyber-criminal sent to prison for eight-and-a-half years.

    Zak Coyne, 23 (22.02.01) of Woodbine Road, Huddersfield, was sentenced for leading a website used by more than 2,000 criminals to defraud victims all over the world.

    The LabHost service was set up by a criminal cyber network in 2021 to create “phishing” websites, designed to trick victims into revealing personal data such as email addresses, passwords and bank details. 

    For a membership fee, users could log on and choose from existing sites or request bespoke pages replicating trusted brands including banks, healthcare agencies and postal services.   

    The platform was brought down in April 2024 after the Met’s Cyber Crime Unit gathered crucial intelligence and joined forces with partners across the country, including the National Crime Agency and Microsoft.

    In the same month, the Met arrested 24 suspects, targeting the most prolific offenders within the LabHost service, while over 70 addresses were searched.   

    As part of the Met’s duty of care, officers safeguarded victims by establishing a helpline, directing people to protected advice on the Met website, and securing compromised accounts.

    Specially trained officers offered personalised advice, including how to further protect victims’ data, and ensuring every case was reported to both Action Fraud and UK Finance.   

    Coyne admitted his crimes at Manchester Crown Court on Wednesday, 18 September. These included: making or supplying articles for use in frauds; encouraging or assisting the commission of an offence believing it would be committed; and transferring criminal property.

    He was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court on Monday, 14 April.

    Commander Stephen Clayman, Head of the Met’s Central Specialist Crime team, said: 

    “The outcome of this case demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Met in pursuing individuals like Coyne who mastermind a network of fraudulent activity, which ultimately brings misery to thousands of innocent people.

    “This also demonstrates the commitment across law enforcement to identify and hold those to account who facilitate criminal enabling functions and think they can remain undetected. We will find you and take action.

    “This has been monumental operation lead by the Met and I would like to thank all the partners – including the NCA, City of London Police and Cyber Defence Alliance – involved for their invaluable input and without whom, this would not have been a success.

    “We will continue to work across law enforcement and key stakeholders, including international partners, to ensure that the Met contributes to the ongoing system response to cyber-related fraud.”

    Thomas Short, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

    “Zak Coyne operated a phishing service that provided fraudsters with the tools to impersonate trusted institutions and steal sensitive information from unsuspecting victims.

    “This was a sophisticated worldwide criminal enterprise which enabled others to perpetrate fraud on a massive scale, resulting in losses totalling more than £100 million.

    “Fraud is far from a victimless crime and the harm caused by Coyne’s offending are measured not just in monetary terms, but also in the distress inflicted on countless victims who fell prey to these scams.

    “This was a complex case, but the prosecution team, together with law enforcement partners, was able to unravel an intricate web of digital evidence which linked Coyne to the offending and build a strong case against him, resulting in his guilty pleas.”

    Craig Rice, CEO Cyber Defence Alliance, said:    

    “This is an excellent International law enforcement operation, supported by the Cyber Defence Alliance and other private industry partners, to disrupt and arrest criminal services providers.

    “These Cybercrime-As-A-Service platforms enable thousands of other fraudsters to conduct online frauds that impacts bank and retail customers across the UK.

    “Law enforcement working with industry makes for a formidable alliance that will disrupt such criminal networks”.

    Steven Masada, Assistant General Counsel, Microsoft’s Digital Crimes Unit, said:

    “We commend the Met and their collaborative efforts against the leaders of the prolific cybercrime-as-a-service provider, LabHost.

    “While in operation, LabHost provided services to scammers and other cybercriminals that targeted Microsoft customers and harmed users online.

    “The dismantling of LabHost disrupted the activities of countless online actors, protecting an untold number of potential victims worldwide.

    “Microsoft will continue to collaborate with the public and private sector to protect individuals and help provide evidence that brings perpetrators of cybercrime to justice.”

    Adrian Searle, Director of the National Economic Crime Centre, within the National Crime Agency, said:

    “Fraud is the crime we are all most likely to experience, and it causes victims long-lasting emotional and psychological harm, in addition to financial loss.

    “Criminals are using current and emerging technologies to commit fraud on an industrial scale.

    “The takedown of LabHost by the Met demonstrates what law enforcement can achieve when we work together to tackle this rapidly evolving, and complex, threat.

    “In this operation and similar, we are undermining the fraudsters’ trust in the criminal services they are accessing online, and showing that providing and using them comes with consequences.”

    Edvardas Šileris, Head of Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre (EC3), said:

    “The dismantling of LabHost is a clear example of the impact that cross-border cooperation has on combatting cybercrime.

    “By leveraging the collective expertise of our law enforcement partners, Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre (EC3) has helped disrupt a major phishing-as-a-service platform, safeguarding victims and making it harder for criminals to operate with impunity.

    “This operation highlights the critical importance of international collaboration in confronting the evolving threat posed by cybercriminals.

    “We congratulate all partners involved for their hard work and commitment to bringing these criminals to justice.”

    To avoid becoming a victim of online crime you don’t need to be a computer expert. Developing a few good online habits drastically reduces your chances of becoming a victim of cyber crime, makes you less vulnerable and lets you use the web safely.

    Visit Cyber Aware for step-by-step instructions on keeping your devices up-to-date with the latest security updates, and for more online security advice.

    Be careful when opening emails and texts, especially if you don’t know the sender. If an email or text is unexpected or seems unusual, even if it’s from someone you know, ignore it and contact the sender directly to check if they sent it.

    Your bank, the police and reputable companies will never ask for sensitive or financial details via email, phone or text.

    The Met has issued ten golden rules to help people protect themselves from fraud:    

    1. Be suspicious of all ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals. There are no guaranteed get-rich-quick schemes. 
    1. Don’t agree to offers or deals immediately. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice before making a decision. 
    1. Don’t hand over money or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company’s. 
    1. Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you’re not comfortable with. 
    1. Never give banking or personal details to anyone you don’t know or trust. This information is valuable so make sure you protect it. 
    1. Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email. 
    1. Don’t just rely on glowing testimonials. Find solid, independent evidence of a company’s success. 
    1. Always get independent or legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment. 
    1. If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help. 
    1. Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever there’s no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you’ll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.    

    If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. 

    Remember that if you’re a victim of a scam or an attempted scam, however minor, there may be hundreds or thousands of others in a similar position. Your information may form part of one big jigsaw and be vital to completing the picture.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU hosted the largest Career Days ever

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    From March 3 to April 10, Novosibirsk State University hosted a large-scale career event, Career Days 2025. This year, the NSU Career Development Center team came up with an unusual format for the event in the atmosphere of Career Games, which brought together students and employers. More than 35 individual events were held as part of the Career Days: workshops, master classes, and excursions to company offices. The Career Games traditionally ended with two poster sessions in the Laboratory and Educational Buildings — on April 8 and 10.

    In 2025, the NSU Career Development Center will for the first timeimplemented game mechanics for participation in Career Day events— together with students of the Institute of Intelligent Robotics of NSU, we created a Career BotHTTPS: //t. Tu/tsareerkusud_ns_not, which allowed students to accumulate points for participating in events from employers, and at the poster sessions on April 8 and 10, to spend points on purchasing valuable branded prizes from companies and the NSU Career Development Center. Also Career botHTTPS: //t. Tu/tsareerkusud_ns_notThroughout the 2025 Career Days period, we sent students notifications with important information about upcoming events.

    — The idea to create a bot came from the theme of these Career Days, that is, “Career Games”, collecting internal currency is a typical story for many games. In addition to simply following the theme, there was another thought behind it – guys are usually shy to approach companies directly and ask any questions. Points were supposed to motivate guys to communicate and show themselves in order to overcome their fear.

    The mechanics of the bot are simple – for their activities, the guys received points, which they could later spend, and also see their place in the ranking. However, even this already generated some kind of competitive spirit, motivating the guys from the top ten to be even more active.

    In general, everything went very smoothly. Probably, one of the most difficult tasks for me personally was maintaining the server for the bot during career days – this was largely due to the limited resources and the fact that the bot needed to be provided with uninterrupted operation. A couple of times we came across bugs, but in general – everything really went without a hitch, – said Sergey Bespalov, one of the creators of the Career Bot and a 4th-year student of the Institute of Intelligent Robotics of NSU.

    Over 1.5 months, more than 560 students have registered in the Career Bot.

    — We implemented gamification to further motivate students to participate in Career Day activities: attend employer events, communicate at stands, solve problems and leave feedback. We wanted students to associate the search for their first job with an exciting and inspiring process. We work with young talents and try to speak the same language with them.

    Gamification is actively used in education and business and shows excellent results. At Career Days 2025, we saw this in practice: 567 students registered in the bot, and it really affected engagement – our partners also noted this. One of the interesting effects: students paid much less attention to the merch that companies raffled off according to their own rules, and went with more enthusiasm to those who exchanged gifts through the bot.

    We are currently preparing improvements and will begin refining the mechanics this summer to make the NSU Autumn Career Forum even more interesting and useful for students and companies, commented Daria Balandina, the author of the career quest concept and leading specialist at the NSU Career Development Center.

    The creation and launch of the Career Bot was the result of well-coordinated teamwork. We thank Daria Balandina, the author of the career quest concept and leading specialist of the NSU Career Development Center, for the idea and coordination of the project. We also express our gratitude to the students of the NSU Institute of Intelligent Robotics for developing the technical part: Sergey Bespalov, Alexey Spirkin, Polina Novikova. Special thanks to Svetlana Valeryevna Dovgal, Director of the NSU Career Development Center, and Victoria Maltseva, leading specialist of the Center, for developing the career quest economy. Thanks to this team, we managed to implement not only a technically stable, but also a well-thought-out system in terms of mechanics, which inspired the students and enlivened the event format.

    — Career Days 2025 has a special atmosphere, this year it is the theme of artificial intelligence and career games. We and the Career Development Center team have done a tremendous job — a unique design of the Career Games was developed, which reflected the theme of all career events, looked at the participants from banners, badges and T-shirts. Most importantly, a computer bot was used for the first time, which definitely became a special part of the Career Games.

    For one and a half months, we held thematic meetings with companies and excursions to enterprises for university students every week. A pleasant surprise was not only the large total number of participating companies, but also the increase in the number of SB RAS institutes among the participants of the poster sessions.

    The main message that we convey with all our events and career meetings is that in order for students to trust you, you need to treat them with a pure heart and an open soul. It seems to me that the sincerity and friendliness of the NSU Career Development Center staff, their willingness to help with employment issues, and offer career counseling, encourages students to engage in dialogue. Many thanks to the CDC team, without them such a large-scale event would not have been possible. We have many new ideas and events ahead, for example, in a month we will host the Association of Career Centers with participants from Moscow to Vladivostok, – summed up the Career Days Svetlana Dovgal, Director of the NSU Career Development Center.

    Some statistics: a total of 65 companies and more than 3,000 students took part in the events, and 60 volunteers helped organize and conduct the events.

    Traditionally, Career Days 2025 will not end on the planned date – until the end of April, there will be several more meetings between students and employers and a series of excursions to defense industry enterprises. Calendar of eventspublished here

    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: Gate.io Kicks Off WCTC S7: Race for a $5 Million Prize Pool and a Ford Mustang GT

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — April 2025 marks the launch of one of the most anticipated events in the crypto world: Gate.io’s World Crypto Trading Competition Season 7 (WCTC S7). Recognized as one of the most prestigious trading competitions globally, WCTC S7 introduces innovative formats, generous rewards, and diverse activities to offer an unparalleled trading experience for crypto enthusiasts worldwide.

    Racing to the Top: Showcasing Gate.io’s Commitment to Excellence
    As a global leader in digital asset trading, Gate.io has demonstrated impressive growth in recent years, now boasting over 22 million registered users. Its spot and futures trading businesses rank among the Top 2 and Top 5 globally, respectively. With continued advancements in product experience, asset security, innovation, and global expansion, Gate.io has earned the trust of traders around the world.

    In terms of brand building, Gate.io continues to make significant strides. Over the past two years, the platform has sponsored multiple international sports brands and, in 2025, officially became a sponsor of Oracle Red Bull Racing in F1. Known for its speed, technology, and pursuit of excellence, F1 shares a natural synergy with the world of crypto trading.

    Inspired by this spirit, WCTC S7 adopts an F1-themed design to symbolize Gate.io’s core trading philosophy: speed, precision, and stability. F1 is more than a sport — it is a symbol of pushing limits and striving for greatness. Gate.io brings this spirit into the world of cryptocurrency trading, making WCTC S7 not just a competition, but a world-class event for global traders.

    Top-Tier Competition: $5 Million Dynamic Prize Pool
    Early bird registration for Gate.io WCTC S7 officially opened on April 15, with a dynamic prize pool of up to $5 million. This season features both team and individual competitions, alongside exciting events like surprise airdrops, offering participants multiple ways to engage and win.

    Competition Timeline:

    • Early Bird Registration: April 15, 00:00 – April 21, 00:00 (UTC)
    • Lucky Bags Rain: April 15, 00:00 – June 8, 00:00 (UTC)
    • Official Registration: April 21, 00:00 – June 8, 00:00 (UTC)
    • Individual Competition: May 7, 00:00 – June 8, 00:00 (UTC)
    • Team Competition(First Half): May 7, 00:00 – May 23, 00:00 (UTC)
    • Team Competition(Second Half): May 23, 00:00 – June 8, 00:00 (UTC)

    Team Battle: Two-Stage Challenge for the Ultimate Prize
    The team competition accounts for 80% of the total prize pool, with up to $4 million to be shared. It introduces a “two-stage” system, resetting performance data halfway through the competition. This allows teams to recalibrate strategies and compete for Top 20 rankings in each stage independently.
    In addition, the team with the highest total trading volume will win the grand prize — a Ford Mustang GT, an iconic symbol of victory and prestige.

    Individual Competition: Tiered Rewards for 1,000+ Traders
    The individual competition accounts for 20% of the prize pool, offering up to $1 million in rewards. Based on cumulative trading volume, the top 300 participants will share $1 million in cash, with higher ranks earning greater rewards. Participants ranked 301–700 will receive exclusive merchandise bundles, while those ranked 701–1000 will share $20,000 worth of Futures Vouchers.

    Airdrop Showers: 100% Winning Rate and Collectible Fragment Game
    During the competition, participants can join airdrop events with a guaranteed 100% winning rate. Prizes include trading fee rebate vouchers, Futures Vouchers, and chances to win physical rewards through “Hourly Airdrops” and “Super Airdrops,” featuring fragments of iPhone 16 Pro Max, popular tokens, and fragments of limited-edition merchandise like jackets and co-branded insulated bottles.
    Participants can also collect WCTC S7-exclusive fragments to share a $10,000 Futures Voucher Pool.

    Accessible for All: Balancing Inclusivity and Exclusivity
    The competition is designed for broad participation. Whether joining a team or individual contests, users can choose according to their preferences. The “every participant wins” design of the airdrop event ensures that even newcomers can easily join and win prizes, while the collectible fragment gameplay offers seasoned traders a deeper and more engaging experience.

    Join WCTC S7 and Embark on Your Journey to Glory
    Gate.io WCTC S7 is now underway, welcoming traders from all corners of the world. Here, you’ll compete alongside top traders globally. Here, you’ll have the chance to share in a $5 million prize pool. Here, you’ll experience an unprecedented trading extravaganza.

    Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned trader, WCTC S7 offers the perfect stage to showcase your skills. Sign up now to be part of WCTC S7, chase your trading dreams, and embark on your journey to glory. For more details, please check the official announcement link.

    Media Contact:
    Elaine Wang at elaine.w@gate.io 

    Disclaimer
    The content herein does not constitute any offer, solicitation, or recommendation. You should always seek independent professional advice before making any investment decisions. Please be noted that Gate.io may restrict or prohibit the use of all or a portion of the Services from Restricted Locations. For more information, please read the User Agreement via https://www.gate.io/user-agreement.

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Gate.io. 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. 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. 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.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.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 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/c9cfcd2a-80f4-45c8-90dd-c83a738b7a9d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to crack down on malicious short video content

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s top internet regulator launched a nationwide campaign Tuesday to crack down on malicious marketing in the short video sector, aiming to foster a healthier and more trustworthy online environment.
    The three-month initiative targets fabricated content, disinformation, conduct that offends public order and good morals, and policy-violating practices to attract viewers, according to the Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission.
    Key offenses include staging emotionally manipulative content to exploit public sympathy for financial gain, as well as using deepfakes and altered audio or visuals to fabricate stories, the office said.
    The campaign underscores the importance of accountability, requiring short video platforms to curb malicious marketing. Platforms and accounts found in serious violation will face strict penalties.
    China is home to a vast short video market. As of June 2024, the number of short video users reached 1.05 billion, accounting for 95.5 percent of the country’s total internet population.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Services a major driving force behind China’s consumption growth: report

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

    HAIKOU, April 15 — China’s services consumption is not only rebounding but evolving rapidly, becoming a key driver of overall consumption growth, according to a report released by the China Institute for Reform and Development.

    The Hainan-based think tank published the report on Monday during this year’s China International Consumer Products Expo, the country’s only national-level exhibition focused on consumer goods, which is being held in the tropical island province.

    The report forecasts that by 2030, the per capita services consumption of China’s urban and rural residents could exceed 20,000 yuan (about 2,773 U.S. dollars), accounting for more than half of total consumption. The shift toward a services-oriented consumer society is expected to drive sustainable economic growth and transform consumption patterns.

    Services consumption has become a propeller of goods consumption, and a “goods-like services” trend is gaining momentum across the country, said Chi Fulin, head of the think tank.

    The report shows that traditional sectors are leading the recovery. Established go-tos for fun and relaxation, such as ski holidays and blockbuster films, are back in full swing.

    Winter tourism continues to gain popularity, particularly during peak travel periods. During the 2025 Spring Festival holiday, a total of 17.23 million visits were recorded across 934 ski resorts nationwide — a 10 percent increase from the previous year. For the 2024-2025 winter season, the number of people engaged in ice and snow tourism in China is estimated at 520 million.

    Earlier this year, China’s film industry also made a notable comeback. The 2025 Spring Festival box office hit a record 9.51 billion yuan, with 187 million moviegoers nationwide. Daily box office sales also reached new highs during the holiday season. The animated film “Ne Zha 2” made history by becoming the first Asian film to break into the global top five and top the global animation box office.

    While classic forms of services consumption like films and tourism continue to thrive, a new wave of digital experiences, led by generative artificial intelligence (AI), is rapidly reshaping China’s consumer landscape.

    According to the report, generative AI is enhancing and upgrading the consumer-end user experience as it is integrated into common internet applications, including instant messaging platforms, office software, and online customer service and creative tools.

    In December 2024, approximately 331 million people in China reported that they were aware of generative AI products, and about 249 million said they had used them. This surge in public engagement reflects the technology’s growing presence in everyday digital life, as well as its expanding influence on consumption patterns.

    Jiang Ying, chair of Deloitte China, anticipates that China will leverage its strength in rapid technological innovation further to boost demand. “China encourages the integration of emerging technologies like AI to enhance consumer experiences and create new consumption scenarios,” she added.

    In March, China made public a plan for special initiatives to increase consumption, as the world’s second-largest economy moves to make domestic demand the main engine and anchor of economic growth. The plan highlights services consumption quality enhancement.

    Chi emphasized that the next five to 10 years will be a critical period for China’s economic growth. He suggested that significant investments in people should be made to transform services consumption into a major force in the economy, making consumption a critical engine of sustained economic growth.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Highlights of Xi’s remarks during his visit to Vietnam

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

    HANOI, April 15 — Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Hanoi on Monday for a state visit to Vietnam. During his visit, Xi held meetings with key Vietnamese leaders, including General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee To Lam, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man.

    The following are some of the highlights of Xi’s remarks and statements.

    ON BUILDING A COMMUNITY WITH A SHARED FUTURE

    — As socialist neighbors connected by mountains and rivers, China and Vietnam have formed a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

    — This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, and is the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, bringing new opportunities for advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    — The two sides should strengthen the strategic coordination and consolidate the political foundation for building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    — Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

    — Facing an international landscape fraught with changes and turbulence, China and Vietnam should strengthen confidence in their paths and systems, enhance solidarity and coordination, continue to build the China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, join hands to march toward modernization, and inject more stability and positive energy into the world.

    — Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance. As the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.

    ON CHINA-VIETNAM RELATIONS

    — Standing at a new historical starting point, China is ready to work with Vietnam to stay true to their original aspiration of friendship, remain committed to their shared mission, seize the opportunities of the times, and carry out cooperation at a higher level, across a broader scope and at greater depth to better benefit the two peoples and contribute more to the region and the world.

    — Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood.”

    — The top leaders of the two parties and countries should exchange views on bilateral relations and major issues of common concern in a timely manner, continue to build consensus, enhance mutual trust and steer the course steadily, so as to ensure the steady progress of China-Vietnam relations.

    — The two sides should take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to carry forward the “red gene” and make good use of the revolutionary resources to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, especially the young generation, and strengthen the friendly bond between the two countries.

    — The two countries should expand cooperation in traditional areas such as trade and investment, and expand cooperation in emerging industries such as 5G, artificial intelligence, clean energy and digital economy.

    — China and Vietnam should give full play to their geographical advantages of being connected by land and sea, strengthen the alignment of development strategies and tap the potential of industrial cooperation.

    — Both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.14.2025 ICYMI: Sen. Cruz, Rep. Arrington Celebrate Lubbock’s Segment Construction of I-27

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    LUBBOCK, TX – Today, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-Texas-19) gave remarks at the unveiling ceremony for Lubbock’s first expansion segment of I-27. This segment will enable more efficient transportation and prosperous economic growth for Texas. 

    Sen. Cruz said, “Today is yet another demonstration of the dedication and hard work of Texans. I’m proud to have led the charge in the U.S. Senate to create I-27 — the Ports-to-Plains Corridor. I look forward to seeing more segments completed as we move steadily toward the full construction of this vital artery through Texas.”
    Rep. Arrington said, “Today’s I-27 signage ceremony in Lubbock marked an important milestone for the Ports-to-Plains Corridor. This critical transportation artery will enhance the future of Rural America and strengthen our nation’s food security and energy dominance. This project is a game-changer for West Texas, generating over $50 billion of economic impact to our great state. I’m proud to have helped lead the effort to establish this federal four-lane highway, and I look forward to continuing our work to strengthen our local economy and open up new markets for our producers.”
    BACKGROUND
    In March 2024, Sen. Cruz’s I-27 Numbering Act was signed into law. The bill designated the Ports-to-Plains Corridor between Laredo, Texas, and Raton, New Mexico as the future Interstate 27. The designation allows the highway to be added to the Interstate Highway System, and will result in more jobs, greater economic development, and better transportation for Texans in communities across the Lone Star State.

    MIL OSI USA News –