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  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Announces Sponsorship and Executive Speaking Engagements at the Upcoming Innovation Zero World Congress 2025 on April 29-30th in London

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced its sponsorship of the Innovation Zero World Congress 2025, to be held on April 29th and 30th, 2025 at Olympia London, UK.

    NANO Nuclear Chief Executive Officer, James Walker, will deliver a presentation titled “Finding Opportunities in the Resurgent Nuclear Energy Industry” on April 30th at 11:05 a.m., London time, followed by his participation in the panel discussion “Fixing Fission: Green Taxonomies and Red Tape in Nuclear” at 11:35 a.m., London time, the same day.

    Supported by the U.K. Government, the Innovation Zero World Congress 2025 provides a space and opportunity for collaboration and overcoming obstacles to drive large-scale, impactful progress towards global emissions reduction. Approximately 10,000 attendees are expected to arrive at Olympia London, providing an excellent platform for networking, investment exploration, and knowledge sharing. With over 250 sessions taking place across 13 dedicated forums, Innovation Zero is an essential meeting place for anyone looking to keep up with the latest trends, investment opportunities, and announcements.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Sponsors Innovation Zero World Congress, held on April 29th– 30th, 2025 at Olympia London, UK.

    “NANO Nuclear is off to a strong start to 2025, and this year’s Innovation Zero conference is an ideal platform to share our recent progress and upcoming plans with stakeholders and fellow clean-tech industry leaders,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear. “Our UK-based technical team, responsible for advancing our proprietary ODIN™ microreactor technology, will also attend, and I anticipate this event will provide valuable insights and meaningful interactions for everyone involved.”

    “We’re delighted to be heading back to London for this year’s Innovation Zero conference,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We view this event as a key part of our global growth conference schedule. It brings together many experts in carbon-neutral energy technologies and I’m looking forward to an insightful and productive gathering.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statement relate to the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of its attendance at the Innovation Zero World Congress 2025. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SIMPPLE Ltd. Launches New Product “SIMPPLE Vision”, an end-to-end Vision-as-a-Service (VaaS) video content analytics, and Secures Paid Pilot with a national healthcare institution in Singapore

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIMPPLE Ltd. (NASDAQ: SPPL) (“SIMPPLE” or “the Company”), a leading technology provider and innovator in the facilities management (FM) sector, today launched its new highly scalable end-to-end A.I. video analytics platform – SIMPPLE Vision, providing building owners and service contractors insights into facility operations and occupants’ behaviour. It brings together a set of pre-trained A.I. models from the Environmental Services and Security sectors coupling them with automated workforce management capabilities, enabling organizations to process vast amounts of video data in real-time, and instantly send alerts or work orders to the workforce to respond. This allows facility managers and workers to react quicker to situations with an enhanced level of transparency and accountability to the operations.

    With rising security concerns around unauthorised access as well as workplace safety breaches and incidents, there is a push towards evidence-based reporting and prevention. SIMPPLE Vision platform makes use of existing camera networks to deliver real-time insights through vision A.I. analytics and automated push notifications, minimising the cost of hardware upgrades and reducing reliance on manual monitoring. This is a significant upgrade, by retrofitting systems that lack modern analytics capability, therefore eliminating the need to replace existing cameras. SIMPPLE Vision processing platform can provide real-time analytics, incident logging, and audit trails for regulatory compliance, amongst many other features and related applications.

    SIMPPLE Vision applies advanced algorithms and high compute capabilities, which can be used and scaled across many sectors, such as aviation and transport safety, healthcare and hospitality monitoring, and compliance within education institutions. Data collected from such implementations can be refined over time, offering people and asset safety, and ultimately creating more personalised customer or occupant experiences within a given space. Another unique proposition SIMPPLE Vision platform offers is its ability to do both on-premises and cloud set-ups, depending on the end user requirements. This is especially important for critical infrastructure or healthcare facilities to avoid cloud risks while concurrently reducing cloud storage and transmission costs from significant bandwidth consumption, making it an ideal and cost-effective alternative solution.

    Following the announcement of SIMPPLE Vision, SIMPPLE is also pleased to announce a contract win with one of the largest public healthcare institutions in Singapore to deploy its advanced computer vision-to-workforce management capabilities as part of the initial proof-of-value initiative. Due to confidentiality, specific contract details remain undisclosed. This collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency within the healthcare premises and improve customer satisfaction. If successful, the program is set to expand across multiple hospitals nationwide with these added vision applications, marking a major step forward to incorporate cutting-edge vision technologies for the healthcare sector.

    “We are thrilled to launch SIMPPLE Vision as part of our continuing commitment to develop innovative and cost-effective solutions that can positively impact service delivery and improved reporting outcomes,” said SIMPPLE chief executive Norman Schroeder. “This domain-specific computer vision capability is a step forward to revolutionise the way assets and broad ranging facilities are managed. Being awarded one of Singapore’s national public hospitals as an initial site is a testament to our commitment and forward-looking vision. We will continue to deliver on our promise to develop fit-for-purpose solutions, as we look to expand our contribution to the healthcare sector in Singapore and beyond.”

    According to an August 2024 report by SkyQuest Technology, the global video analytics market will attain a value of $44.7 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 22.3%, from 2024 to 2031. This rapid growth is largely driven by the growing emphasis on security enhancements and integration of artificial intelligence with video analytics solutions. Crowd management will remain as a key contributor to the growth of computer vision applications in stadiums, airports, public events, and government facilities, said the report.

    About SIMPPLE LTD.

    Headquartered in Singapore, SIMPPLE LTD. is an advanced technology solution provider in the emerging PropTech space, focused on helping facilities owners and managers manage facilities autonomously. Founded in 2016, the Company has a strong foothold in the Singapore facilities management market, serving over 60 clients in both the public and private sectors and extending out of Singapore into Australia and the Middle East. The Company has developed its proprietary SIMPPLE Ecosystem, to create an automated workforce management tool for building maintenance, surveillance and cleaning comprised of a mix of software and hardware solutions such as robotics (both cleaning and security) and Internet-of-Things (“IoT”) devices. 

    For more information on SIMPPLE, please visit: https://www.simpple.ai

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. In addition, from time to time, we or our representatives may make forward-looking statements orally or in writing. We base these forward-looking statements on our expectations and projections about future events, which we derive from the information currently available to us. Such forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future performance, including: our financial performance and projections; our growth in revenue and earnings; and our business prospects and opportunities. You can identify forward-looking statements by those that are not historical in nature, particularly those that use terminology such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “contemplates,” “estimates,” “believes,” “plans,” “projected,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “hopes” or the negative of these or similar terms. In evaluating these forward-looking statements, you should consider various factors, including: our ability to change the direction of the Company; our ability to keep pace with new technology and changing market needs; and the competitive environment of our business. These and other factors may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement.

    Forward-looking statements are only predictions. The forward-looking events discussed in this press release and other statements made from time to time by us or our representatives, may not occur, and actual events and results may differ materially and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions about us. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this press release and other statements made from time to time by us or our representatives might not occur.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ormat Technologies, Inc. to Host Conference Call Announcing First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RENO, Nev., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ormat Technologies Inc. (NYSE: ORA) (the “Company” or “Ormat”), a leading geothermal and renewable energy company, today announced that it plans to publish its first quarter financial results in a press release that will be issued on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, after the market closes. In conjunction with this report, the Company has scheduled a conference call to discuss the results at 09:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

    Participants within the United States and Canada, please dial 1-800-715-9871, approximately 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call. If you are calling from outside the United States or Canada, please dial +1-646-960-0440. The access code for the call is 3818407. Please request the “Ormat Technologies, Inc. call” when prompted by the conference call operator. The conference call will also be accompanied by a live webcast on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website.

    A replay will be available one hour after the end of the conference call. To access the replay within the United States and Canada, please dial 1-800-770-2030. From outside of the United States and Canada, please dial +1-647-362-9199. Please use the replay access code 3818407. The webcast will also be archived on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website.

    ABOUT ORMAT TECHNOLOGIES

    With six decades of experience, Ormat Technologies, Inc. is a leading geothermal company, and the only vertically integrated company engaged in geothermal and recovered energy generation (“REG”), with robust plans to accelerate long-term growth in the energy storage market and to establish a leading position in the U.S. energy storage market. The Company owns, operates, designs, manufactures and sells geothermal and REG power plants primarily based on the Ormat Energy Converter – a power generation unit that converts low-, medium- and high-temperature heat into electricity. The Company has engineered, manufactured and constructed power plants, which it currently owns or has installed for utilities and developers worldwide, totaling approximately 3,400 MW of gross capacity. Ormat leveraged its core capabilities in the geothermal and REG industries and its global presence to expand the Company’s activity into energy storage services, solar Photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage plus Solar PV. Ormat’s current total generating portfolio is 1,538MW with a 1,248MW geothermal and solar generation portfolio that is spread globally in the U.S., Kenya, Guatemala, Indonesia, Honduras, and Guadeloupe, and a 290MW energy storage portfolio that is located in the U.S.

    Ormat Technologies Contact:
    Smadar Lavi
    VP, Head of IR and ESG Planning & Reporting
    775-356-9029 (ext. 65726)
    slavi@ormat.com    		 Investor Relations Agency Contact:
    Joseph Caminiti or Josh Carroll
    Alpha IR Group
    312-445-2870
    ORA@alpha-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cyabra Partners with Aquion to Strengthen Digital Security and Combat Disinformation Across Australia and New Zealand

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cyabra Strategy Ltd. (“Cyabra”), a leading AI platform for real-time disinformation detection, has joined forces with Aquion Pty Ltd, a trusted value-added distributor of cybersecurity and digital transformation solutions. This partnership will bring Cyabra’s AI-driven platform to businesses, government agencies, and enterprises across Australia and New Zealand, helping them detect and monitor digital threats in real time.

    With the rise of disinformation campaigns, bot-driven influence operations, and online manipulation, organizations are increasingly vulnerable to digital threats. Cyabra’s AI-powered platform analyzes millions of online conversations across social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok. It detects inauthentic accounts, AI-generated content, and coordinated disinformation campaigns, mapping how false narratives spread and influence public opinion. By partnering with Aquion, Cyabra is expanding its reach, enabling organizations in Australia and New Zealand via its reseller partners access to the tools they need to safeguard their digital presence.

    “Disinformation isn’t just about social media engagement—it’s a growing threat with real-world consequences, shaping public opinion, impacting businesses, and eroding trust. Organizations need to be proactive, not just reactive, in protecting their digital presence,” said Dan Brahmy, CEO and Co-founder of Cyabra. “Our partnership with Aquion ensures that businesses and governments across Australia and New Zealand have access to the real-time intelligence they need to spot false narratives, uncover manipulation, and stay ahead of digital threats.”

    “We are excited to partner with Cyabra to bring their AI-powered social media intelligence platform to our customers,” said Stephen Balicki, CEO at Aquion. “Disinformation and online manipulation are growing threats to businesses and government agencies alike. With Cyabra’s unique capabilities, we can provide organizations with unparalleled insights to identify and respond to digital threats effectively.”

    Aquion’s extensive network of reseller partners, combined with Cyabra’s AI-powered insights, will enable businesses, government agencies, and media organizations to detect and combat disinformation before it causes irreparable reputational or financial harm. Together, Cyabra and Aquion empower organizations to proactively detect false narratives, counter-influence operations, and protect digital trust in an era where AI-generated content and coordinated manipulation threaten businesses, governments, and public discourse.

    For more information about Cyabra’s AI-driven disinformation detection capabilities and the partnership with Aquion, visit the Cyabra website or Aquion Website.

    Cyabra has entered into a business combination agreement (the “Business Combination Agreement”) with Trailblazer Merger Corporation I (NASDAQ: TBMC) (“Trailblazer”), a blank-check special-purpose acquisition company.

    About Cyabra

    Cyabra Strategy Ltd. (“Cyabra”) is a real-time AI-powered platform that uncovers and analyzes online disinformation and misinformation by uncovering fake profiles, harmful narratives, and GenAI content across social media and digital news channels. Cyabra’s AI protects corporations and governments against brand reputation risks, election manipulation, foreign interference, and other online threats. Cyabra’s platform leverages proprietary algorithms and NLP solutions, gathering and analyzing publicly available data to provide clear, actionable insights and real-time alerts that inform critical decision-making. Cyabra uncovers the good, bad, and fake online.

    For more information, visit www.cyabra.com.

    Media Contact:
    Jill Burkes
    Jill@cyabra.com
    Signal Contact: Jillabra.24

    About Aquion
     Aquion is a leading Australian software distributor, specialising in connecting world-class technology vendors with the largest resellers across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. With a commitment to delivering value through the channel, Aquion offers a comprehensive portfolio of disruptive technologies with over 5000 existing software agreements, including business transformation, cybersecurity, DevOps, and infrastructure software solutions. Backed by a highly responsive sourcing team and a reputation for outstanding service, Aquion enables partners to drive growth and capitalise on new opportunities. Focused on collaboration, innovation, and customer success, Aquion remains a trusted partner for vendors and resellers alike in APAC.

    https://www.aquion.com.au/

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Miri Segal
    MS-IR
    msegal@ms-ir.com

    About Trailblazer

    Trailblazer Merger Corporation I (Nasdaq: TBMC) is a blank check company formed and entered into a merger, shared exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, recapitalization, reorganization, or other similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. For more information, visit: www.trailblazermergercorp.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to certain products that will be the subject of a proposed transaction between Trailblazer Merger Corporation I (“Trailblazer”) and Cyabra Strategy Ltd. (“Cyabra”). All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding Cyabra’s business strategy, products, research and development costs, plans and objectives of management for future operations, and future results of current and anticipated product offerings, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, but not limited to, the following risks relating to the proposed transaction: the ability to complete the Business Combination or, if Trailblazer does not consummate such Business Combination, any other initial business combination; expectations regarding Cyabra’s strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products and services, pricing, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and Cyabra’s ability to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Trailblazer or Cyabra following announcement of the Business Combination Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein; the inability to complete the proposed Business Combination due to, among other things, the failure to obtain Trailblazer stockholder approval; the risk that the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination disrupts Cyabra’s current operations and future plans;  the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination; unexpected costs related to the proposed Business Combination; the amount of any redemptions by existing holders of Trailblazer’s common stock being greater than expected; limited liquidity and trading of Trailblazer’s securities; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; the size of the addressable markets for Cyabra’s products and services; the possibility that Trailblazer and/or Cyabra may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; the ability to obtain and/or maintain the listing of Combined Company’s Common Stock on Nasdaq following the Business Combination; operational risk; and the risks that the consummation of the proposed Business Combination is substantially delayed or does not occur.

    Important Information for Investors and Stockholders

    Trailblazer will file a registration statement on Form S-4 with the SEC, which will include a proxy statement for Trailblazer’s stockholders and a prospectus related to the securities of the combined company. After the registration statement is declared effective, the proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to all Trailblazer stockholders.

    INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS OF TRAILBLAZER ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES INVOLVED.

    Once filed, free copies of these documents can be obtained from the SEC’s website at  www.sec.gov. Additional information about Trailblazer can be found on its website at  www.trailblazermergercorp.com or by contacting info@trailblazermergercorp.com.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Cyabra, Trailblazer, and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from Trailblazer stockholders regarding the transaction. Information about Trailblazer’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Trailblazer’s securities is set forth in Trailblazer’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC, as modified or supplemented by any Form 3 or Form 4 filed with the SEC since the date of such filing. Other information regarding the interests of the participants in the proxy solicitation will be included in the proxy statement/prospectus pertaining to the proposed Transactions when it becomes available.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval. No sale of securities shall occur in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful before registration or qualification under applicable laws.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Thrive Awarded State of Florida Contract for Digital Security Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thrive, a global technology outsourcing provider for cybersecurity, Cloud, and IT managed services, announced today that it has been selected by the State of Florida, Department of Management Services as a vendor for the Digital Security Solutions contract. This latest partnership adds to the list of state and local governments that trust Thrive to protect them from cyber threats, including phishing attempts and data breaches.

    Local and state governments continue to be targets of cyberattacks, and the effect is costly. According to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024, the global average cost of a data breach is $4.88 million. And with a government’s limited resources, a cyberattack can be devastating, not only financially but also to the trust of its constituents.

    To enable these organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity and better protect their data, Thrive has a dedicated public sector team with more than 20 years of experience. This team delivers proactive, fully managed security solutions designed to protect state agencies from cyber risk.

    Florida’s Department of Management Services will allow Thrive to provide cybersecurity solutions to state agencies and other eligible entities across multiple service categories, including:

    1. Service Category 3: Endpoint Detection and Response Fortinet FortiEDR with Thrive Management
    2. Service Category 5: Email Security Checkpoint Harmony Email & Collaboration Security with Thrive Management
    3. Service Category 10: Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) Checkpoint SASE with Thrive Management

    “State and local governments are seeing an influx of data at the exact same time that cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated. It has never been more important to ensure government systems are updated, teams are trained, and data is protected,” said Bill McLaughlin, CEO of Thrive. “Thrive has a deep understanding of the unique needs of local and state governments across our cybersecurity journey. When government agencies like the State of Florida, partner with us, we bring in our team of experts to handle cybersecurity risk so the organization can focus on serving citizens.”

    To learn more about Thrive’s CJIS offerings, click here.

    About Thrive 
    Thrive delivers global technology outsourcing for cybersecurity, Cloud, networking, and other complex IT requirements. Thrive’s NextGen platform enables customers to increase business efficiencies through standardization, scalability, and automation, delivering oversized technology returns on investment (ROI). They accomplish this with advisory services, vCISO, vCIO, consulting, project implementation, solution architects, and a best-in-class subscription-based technology platform. Thrive delivers exceptional high-touch service through its POD approach of subject matter experts and global 24x7x365 SOC, NOC, and centralized services teams. Learn more at www.thrivenextgen.com or follow us on LinkedIn. 

    Contacts 
    Hannah Johnston 
    thrive@v2comms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Central Bank of Bahrain grants license to BPay Global

    Source: Central Bank of Bahrain

    Published on 9 April 2025

    Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain – 9 April 2025 – The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has granted BPay Global B.S.C.(c) (BPay Global) a Payment Service Provider (PSP) license to operate in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

    BPay Global is a payment services company in the Binance Group. The PSP license will allow the company to provide fiat services to Binance customers globally, including fiat top ups and withdrawals, custody and other payment services. This will enable Binance customers to open an e-wallet and make fiat top ups on the Binance platform through bank transfers and debit/credit card payments. The license will also allow BPay Global to custody fiat on behalf of customers.

    Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Abdulla Haji, Director of Licensing Directorate at CBB, said “We are pleased to announce the issuance of a license to a new payment service provider in Bahrain. This license represents a positive step in enhancing Bahrain’s digital payments ecosystem, particularly in its support for crypto-related sector as well as fiat payment solutions. The CBB remains committed to enabling a dynamic and progressive payment landscape that aligns with global advancements in financial technology.”

    Mr. Tameem Almoosawi, General Manager of Binance Bahrain and BPay Global, commented: “We are glad to announce the launch of BPay Global and the first Payment Service Provider license received by a Binance company, allowing it to act as a payment service provider and e-wallet provider for users around the world. With this license, BPay Global will provide Binance users with further choice of low-cost fiat on- and off-ramps.”

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: LM Funding America Announces March 2025 Production and Operational Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

     TAMPA, Fla., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LM Funding America, Inc. (NASDAQ: LMFA) (“LM Funding” or the “Company”), a Bitcoin mining and technology-based specialty finance company, today announced its preliminary, unaudited Bitcoin mining and operational update for the month ended March 31, 2025.

     Metric Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025
      – Bitcoin²      
      – Mined, net 8.0 8.1 8.7
      – Sold – – (14.2)
      – Purchased – – –
      – Service Fee – (0.5) (0.1)
      – Bitcoin HODL 158.2 165.8 160.2
      – Machines²      
      – Operational 5,121 5,121 5,121
      – Storage 719 719 719
      – Total Machines 5,840 5,840 5,840
      – Hashrate (EH/s²)      
      – Oklahoma 0.43 0.43 0.43
      – Hosted 0.13 0.13 0.13
      – Energized 0.56 0.56 0.56
      – Storage 0.07 0.07 0.07
      – Total 0.63 0.63 0.63

    “Being vertically integrated not only secures cheaper power for our mining operations but allows us to sell excess energy back to the grid, further advancing our business model,” stated Bruce Rodgers, Chairman and CEO of LM Funding. “This two-way approach to energy utilization increases our operational efficiency and effectively positions the grid itself as a customer, generating approximately $130,000 in power sales for the first quarter of this year. As we continue our infrastructure expansion, we aim to maintain the strength of our balance sheet with these diversified revenue streams.”

    The Company estimates that the value of its 160.2 Bitcoin holdings on March 31, 2025, was approximately $13.3 million or $2.59¹ per share, based on a Bitcoin price of approximately $83,000 as of March 31, 2025, compared to a stock share price of $1.24 as of March 31, 2025.

    Upcoming Conferences and Events

    • May 20, 2025: Benchmark Virtual Digital Asset Seminar
    • May 28, 2025: Orange Group & Blockware Sell-side and Buy-side Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada

    About LM Funding America

    LM Funding America, Inc. (Nasdaq: LMFA), operates as a Bitcoin mining and specialty finance company. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Tampa, Florida. For more information, please visit https://www.lmfunding.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” and “project” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but rather are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Some of these risks and uncertainties are identified in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its other filings with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the risks of operating in the cryptocurrency mining business, our limited operating history in the cryptocurrency mining business and our ability to grow that business, the capacity of our Bitcoin mining machines and our related ability to purchase power at reasonable prices, our ability to identify and acquire additional mining sites, the ability to finance our site acquisitions and cryptocurrency mining operations, our ability to acquire new accounts in our specialty finance business at appropriate prices, changes in governmental regulations that affect our ability to collected sufficient amounts on defaulted consumer receivables, changes in the credit or capital markets, changes in interest rates, and negative press regarding the debt collection industry. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact: 

    Investor Relations 
    Orange Group 
    Yujia Zhai 
    LMFundingIR@orangegroupadvisors.com 

    ______________________________________
    ¹ Calculated using 5,133,412 shares outstanding as of 12/31/24 from SEC Form 10-K filed March 31, 2025
    ² Unaudited

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Silicon Motion Announces First Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAIPEI, Taiwan and MILPITAS, Calif., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silicon Motion Technology Corporation (NasdaqGS: SIMO) (“Silicon Motion” or the “Company”), a global leader in NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices, plans to release its first quarter 2025 financial results after the market closes on April 29, 2025 and will host a conference call on April 30 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Participants must pre-register using the link below to participate in the live call.  

    CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:

    Participants must register in advance to join the conference call using the link provided below. Conference access information (including dial-in information and a unique access PIN) will be provided in the email received upon registration.

    Participant Online Registration:
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI5c69a4c2d96041b59a2bf8a51cec1881

    This call will be webcast on the Company’s website at www.siliconmotion.com.

    ABOUT SILICON MOTION:

    We are the global leader in supplying NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices.  We supply more SSD controllers than any other company in the world for servers, PCs and other client devices and are the leading merchant supplier of eMMC and UFS embedded storage controllers used in smartphones, IoT devices and other applications.  We also supply customized high-performance hyperscale data center and specialized industrial and automotive SSD solutions.  Our customers include most of the NAND flash vendors, storage device module makers and leading OEMs.  For further information on Silicon Motion, visit us at www.siliconmotion.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Although such statements are based on our own information and information from other sources we believe to be reliable, you should not place undue reliance on them. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual market trends or our actual results of operations, financial condition or business prospects may differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the unpredictable volume and timing of customer orders, which are not fixed by contract but vary on a purchase order basis; the loss of one or more key customers or the significant reduction, postponement, rescheduling or cancellation of orders from one or more customers; general economic conditions or conditions in the semiconductor or consumer electronics markets; the impact of inflation on our business and customer’s businesses and any effect this has on economic activity in the markets in which we operate; the functionalities and performance of our information technology (“IT”) systems, which are subject to cybersecurity threats and which support our critical operational activities, and any breaches of our IT systems or those of our customers, suppliers, partners and providers of third-party licensed technology; the effects on our business and our customer’s business taking into account the ongoing U.S.-China tariffs and trade disputes; the uncertainties associated with any future global or regional pandemic; the continuing tensions between Taiwan and China including enhanced military activities; decreases in the overall average selling prices of our products; changes in the relative sales mix of our products; changes in our cost of finished goods; supply chain disruptions that have affected us and our industry as well as other industries on a global basis; the payment, or non-payment, of cash dividends in the future at the discretion of our board of directors and any announced planned increases in such dividends; changes in our cost of finished goods; the availability, pricing, and timeliness of delivery of other components and raw materials used in the products we sell given the current raw material supply shortages being experienced in our industry; our customers’ sales outlook, purchasing patterns, and inventory adjustments based on consumer demands and general economic conditions; any potential impairment charges that may be incurred related to businesses previously acquired or divested in the future; our ability to successfully develop, introduce, and sell new or enhanced products in a timely manner; and the timing of new product announcements or introductions by us or by our competitors. For additional discussion of these risks and uncertainties and other factors, please see the documents we file from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2024. Other than as required under the securities laws, we do not intend, and do not undertake any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Diamond Equity Research Initiates Coverage on Brillia Inc. (NYSEAM: BRIA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamond Equity Research, a leading equity research firm with a focus on small capitalization public companies has initiated coverage of Brillia, Inc. (NYSEAM: BRIA). The in-depth 28-page initiation report includes detailed information on Brillia Inc’s business model, services, industry overview, financials, valuation, management profile, and risks.

    The full research report is available below.

    Brillia Initiation Report

     

    Highlights from the report include:

    • Stable, Cash Flow Positive, Asset-Light Business Model with Underappreciated Optionality and Upside from High-Margin Brand Expansion: BrilliA’s established business model, anchored by enduring partnerships with global industry leaders, delivers stable cash flow and reliable revenue streams. Its integrated operations provide room for expansion into higher-margin opportunities through the DIANA brand rollout. Further enhancing operational agility, BrilliA’s asset-light structure, maintained by minimizing physical assets, allows the company to channel resources more effectively into its core competencies. From our vantage point, this robust financial foundation enables BrilliA to respond to market shifts and invest strategically in long-term growth initiatives. Given the current valuation, the market may not yet fully appreciate BrilliA’s ability to leverage its asset-light model and established relationships to pursue profitable brand-driven expansion initiatives, providing meaningful upside potential.
    • Strategic Market Positioning Enabled by Long-Standing Global Partnerships and Industry Expertise: Long-term relationships with over 20 major brands, including (but not limited to) Fruit of the Loom, Hanes Brands, Jockey International, Hennes & Mauritz, Canadelle, and Li & Fung, underscore BrilliA’s competitive advantage. These enduring partnerships not only secure a stable revenue base but also validate the company’s operational capabilities in the intimate apparel market. This strategic positioning strengthens its reputation and provides leverage for negotiating favorable terms in future contracts.
    • Existing Business Supports Strategic Opportunity in the Rapidly Expanding Asian Lingerie Market: The global lingerie market is on a strong growth trajectory, expanding from $90 billion in 2024 to a projected $142 billion by 2030, driven by evolving consumer preferences, digital transformation, and increasing demand for comfort, inclusivity, and sustainability. While North America and Europe remain key markets, the Asia-Pacific dominates, contributing 40% of global lingerie revenues, with Southeast Asia emerging as a high-potential region led by Indonesia. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing comfort, inclusivity, and sustainability, fueling demand for innovative fabrics, diverse sizing, and ethical sourcing. Digital disruption is reshaping the competitive landscape, as traditional players like Victoria’s Secret, Hanesbrands, and Triumph International face mounting pressure from agile, direct-to-consumer brands. BrilliA’s DIANA brand is strategically positioned to tap into Southeast Asia’s growing demand by expanding product offerings, strengthening its digital presence, and integrating sustainability-focused initiatives, aiming to establish itself as a dominant player in the region’s evolving lingerie market. In our view, established businesses leveraging core competencies to enter new segments typically bear lower risk compared to startup enterprises lacking a proven operational track record.
    • Vertically Integrated Supply Chain Model Efficiently Manages Lead Times, Reduces Production Risks, and Maintains Pricing Power, Representing a Significant Competitive Advantage : BrilliA’s end-to-end integration, from design & prototyping to production & quality control, promotes efficient operations and cost-effective manufacturing. This vertical integration supports competitive pricing, timely delivery, and consistent product quality, forming a robust foundation for scaling the business. By streamlining production processes and reducing lead times, the company is well-equipped to respond to market demands swiftly and efficiently. Additionally, BrilliA is finalizing a manufacturing agreement with Magic Link Garment Ltd in Cambodia to expand capacity and leverage trade benefits such as duty-free access to Canada and preferential treatment under the EU’s EBA program. This move is expected to enhance operational efficiency and support an internally projected revenue increase of up to $5 million in 2025, subject to market conditions.
    • Analysis Indicates Meaningful Upside Potential from Geographical, Product, and Digital Expansion Initiatives: With plans to expand into key markets in Southeast Asia and Europe, along with diversifying into adjacent product categories such as sleepwear, activewear, baby wear, and period underwear, BrilliA is well-positioned to target new market segments. This strategy mitigates regional risks while driving long-term growth by broadening the customer base and enhancing cross-selling opportunities and revenue stability. We believe targeted investments in digital marketing can effectively drive online engagement and new customer acquisition, while the ongoing recruitment of design talent positions the company to sustain innovation and competitiveness. Additionally, based on preliminary analysis of reciprocal tariffs introduced by the Trump Administration on April 3, 2025, BrilliA’s production exposure in Indonesia (32% tarrif) could position it more favorably than peers with higher exposure to Vietnam (46%), Thailand (36%), or Cambodia (49%), potentially enabling the company to better manage cost volatility and trade disruptions. Collectively, our analysis suggests that BrilliA has multiple avenues available to expand beyond its existing business segments while being relatively insulated from near-term geopolitical trade risks.
    • Valuation: BrilliA, Inc. is strategically positioned for growth, leveraging its established B2B operations to support the expansion of the high-margin D2C DIANA brand in the luxury intimate apparel market. With strong industry partnerships and a focus on quality, innovation, and digital transformation, BrilliA aims to capture significant opportunities in the multi-billion-dollar global lingerie market. Its dual business model balances the profitability and stability of its B2B segment with the high-growth potential of its D2C brand. We believe the market currently undervalues the embedded optionality associated with the successful expansion into the premium D2C segment, presenting additional upside potential. Using a valuation methodology weighted 80% toward a DCF analysis (WACC at 12.25%, terminal growth rate at 1.5%) and 20% toward a sum-of-the-parts approach, we model the company’s value at approximately $183.81 million, or $6.00 per share. Achieving this valuation hinges on successfully scaling DIANA, while preserving robust cash flows from its B2B operations and overall successful execution.

    About Brillia, Inc.  

    Brillia Inc., established in 2023, specializes in the design, production, and distribution of women’s intimate apparel across global markets, including North America, the European Union, the Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. Its product range encompasses bras, panties, bodysuits, swimwear, dresses, and related apparel. 

    About Diamond Equity Research

    Diamond Equity Research is a leading equity research and corporate access firm focused on small capitalization companies. Diamond Equity Research is an approved sell-side provider on major institutional investor platforms.

    For more information, visit https://www.diamondequityresearch.com.

    Disclosures:

    Diamond Equity Research LLC is being compensated by BrilliA, Inc. for producing research materials regarding BrilliA, Inc. and its securities, which is meant to subsidize the high cost of creating the report and monitoring the security, however the views in the report reflect that of Diamond Equity Research. All payments are received upfront and are billed for research engagement. As of 04/09/25 the issuer had paid us $30,000 for our company sponsored research services, which commenced 12/30/2024 and is billed annually. Diamond Equity Research LLC may be compensated for non-research related services, including presenting at Diamond Equity Research investment conferences, press releases and other additional services. The non-research related service cost is dependent on the company, but usually do not exceed $5,000. The issuer has not paid us for non-research related services as of 04/09/2025. Issuers are not required to engage us for these additional services. Additional fees may have accrued since then. Although Diamond Equity Research company sponsored reports are based on publicly available information and although no investment recommendations are made within our company sponsored research reports, given the small capitalization nature of the companies we cover we have adopted an internal trading procedure around the public companies by whom we are engaged, with investors able to find such policy on our website public disclosures page. This report and press release do not consider individual circumstances and does not take into consideration individual investor preferences. Statements within this report may constitute forward-looking statements, these statements involve many risk factors and general uncertainties around the business, industry, and macroeconomic environment. Investors need to be aware of the high degree of risk in small capitalization equities including the complete loss of their investment.This report does not explicitly or implicitly affirm that the information contained within this document is accurate and/or comprehensive, and as such should not be relied on in such a capacity. All information contained within this report is subject to change without any formal or other notice provided.  Investors can find various risk factors in the initiation report and in the respective financial filings for Brillia, Inc. Please review initiation report attached for full disclosure page.   

    Contact:
    Diamond Equity Research
    research@diamondequityresearch.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Fermyon Breaks New Ground in Serverless Hyperscaling with WebAssembly on Google Kubernetes Engine

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONGMONT, Colo., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fermyon™ Technologies, Inc., the serverless WebAssembly company, today demonstrated a breakthrough for serverless hyperscaling as Fermyon Platform for Kubernetes reaches unparalleled scale on Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) clusters, achieving 7x faster pod scheduling and execution speeds 50x faster than today’s leading serverless cloud technologies.

    At Containers @ Google NEXT ‘25, the Google Cloud team debuted the first high-scale demonstration of next generation GKE Autopilot capabilities. Google Cloud has just announced new performance improvements to GKE Autopilot, including faster pod scheduling, scaling reaction time, and capacity right-sizing. The on-site demo features a GKE Autopilot cluster that hosts 1,000 typical lightweight serverless functions on a single four core node, capable of handling unanticipated bursts of traffic to any function doubling the amount of traffic you can serve within seconds without over-provisioning or introducing latency. The unprecedented workload density is made possible by Fermyon’s specialized high-density runtime, Fermyon Platform for Kubernetes.

    This further cements WebAssembly’s leading-edge stature as the highest-performing compute standard and Fermyon’s leadership within the WebAssembly (Wasm) ecosystem for its selection by Google Cloud to demonstrate this level of scale. The combination of WebAssembly’s fast application scaling and Autopilot’s resource scaling ushers in a new era of cloud elasticity capable of supporting highly responsive “bursty” applications delivered faster than the blink of an eye (<100 milliseconds) while simplifying cluster operations and reducing cost for consumers.

    Media, ecommerce, financial services, and other high-volume digital experience companies know that even 100-millisecond delays can impact customer engagement and online revenue — especially under unpredictable crushing-load situations such as a viral moment or an unexpected high response to a product launch. Current Kubernetes architectures compound the problem by forcing companies to pre-scale to massive compute levels and leave those computers more than 83% idle which puts pressure on both corporate wallets and global emissions.

    “The synergy between Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) and Fermyon’s WebAssembly platform offers remarkable application and infrastructure elasticity. Fermyon’s use of WebAssembly enables serverless applications to achieve startup times in the sub-millisecond range, facilitating rapid scaling in response to sudden demand spikes,” stated Paul Nashawaty, Practice Lead and Principal Analyst at theCUBE Research. “GKE enhances this by providing automated, rapid scaling of virtual machine resources through features like Autopilot mode, which manages node provisioning and scaling based on traffic. This dual-layer elasticity ensures that applications can handle unexpected surges, such as viral events, with near-instantaneous responsiveness, highlighting the growing momentum for serverless WebAssembly and GKE adoption.”

    Scaling with Fermyon Serverless

    Fermyon Platform for Kubernetes (self-hosted, single-tenant) and Fermyon Wasm Functions (hosted, multi-tenant) are both WebAssembly serverless execution engines which achieve blazingly fast cold-starts (<1 millisecond), incredibly high workload density (>50x more than typical Kubernetes app density), and instant scale. Both execute Spin serverless functions. Spin is a Fermyon-contributed CNCF Sandbox project focused on delivering superior developer experience for writing event-driven serverless functions, enabling a developer to go from blinking cursor to deployed serverless function in two minutes or less.

    Pairing this high performance with Google Cloud’s new next-generation Autopilot, featuring a new container-optimized compute platform alongside performance improvements like faster pod scheduling and scaling reaction times, means nodes in a Kubernetes cluster can dynamically resize in a few seconds, capable of hosting thousands of Spin serverless functions and hundreds of thousands of requests per second. This avoids the painful preparatory work cloud operations teams have to do to imagine how large viral spikes could be, then plan for and put in place — at an expense — enough capacity to handle those loads.

    Starting today, Google Cloud customers can develop Spin serverless functions and deploy them on GKE with the container-optimized compute platform enabling them to:

    • Avoid painful blockages, blackouts, and shortages during high-volume bursts that cause customers to be locked out and walk away, thus retaining eyeballs and revenue.
    • Enjoy a serverless developer experience on Kubernetes that rids developers of painful overhead to prepare their code for Kubernetes deployments.
    • Write a serverless function in almost any language with SDK support for Javascript/TypeScript, Rust, Python, .NET/C#, and Go.
    • Cut cold start time of HTTP-centric applications to a mere fraction of a millisecond.
    • Avoid over-spending on Kubernetes clusters for future, unknown events.
    • Avoid the stress that comes with under-guessing.

    Google Cloud customers will be able to directly procure Fermyon Platform for Kubernetes and/or Fermyon Wasm Functions from Fermyon on next-generation GKE Autopilot. And starting in Q3, Autopilot’s container-optimized compute platform will also be available to standard GKE clusters, without requiring a specific cluster configuration.

    “Bringing the world’s fastest serverless platform to the world’s first on-demand expandable compute, backed by intelligent capacity provisioning that supports fast pod scheduling, is a big win for any organization interested in avoiding those painful viral-moment blackouts,” said Fermyon CEO Matt Butcher. “With cold starts under half a millisecond, robust service APIs, AI and GPU integration and support for a broad array of programming languages, Fermyon brings Google customers next-generation compute that is not just industry leading, but redefining.”

    “Companies worldwide are constantly seeking superior performance with less risk and cost. We’ve responded to that with the next generation GKE Autopilot offering featuring a new container-optimized compute platform, along with performance improvements like fast pod scheduling and capacity right sizing, powered by unique Google Cloud hardware. This gets rid of the uncertainty, doubt and cost that comes with pre-planning Kubernetes deployments. Fermyon simply can help customers reach new heights when it comes to scale and speed, utilizing WebAssembly on GKE,” said Gabe Monroy, VP/GM of Cloud Runtimes at Google.

    Google Cloud and Fermyon will be showcasing the Fermyon Platform for Kubernetes on GKE at Google Cloud Next in Las Vegas from April 9th to 11th.

    Additional Resources

    About Fermyon™ Technologies, Inc.

    Fermyon is leading the next wave of cloud computing with the first cloud-native WebAssembly FaaS that lets developers build better serverless apps faster. Fermyon is focused on empowering cloud developers to quickly realize the things they are thinking about creating and focus on the code that brings value instead of the obligatory foundation code. Fermyon was founded by the Deis Labs team at Microsoft Azure and is backed by Insight Partners and Amplify Partners. For more information, go to https://www.fermyon.com or follow @fermyontech.

    Media Contact
    constantia@fermyon.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Energy Industry Veteran Gregory J. Goff Releases Letter to Fellow Phillips 66 Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Breakdown in board governance enabled the pursuit of a strategy that has not delivered for shareholders

    Goff supports Elliott’s engagement with Phillips 66 to maximize long-term value for all shareholders

    Elliott’s nominees will provide an infusion of independence and expertise in the Phillips 66 boardroom and ensure management is held to account

    SAN ANTONIO, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gregory J. Goff, a 40-year energy industry veteran and shareholder of Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX), today released the following letter to his fellow Phillips 66 shareholders:

    Dear Fellow Phillips 66 Shareholders,

    I have made a $10 million investment in Phillips 66 because I am confident that with the right leadership, operating priorities and strategic focus, Phillips 66 can be a much stronger company — offering greater opportunities to its employees and significantly more value to its shareholders. I believe the slate of directors put forward by Elliott Investment Management can help the company unlock that potential.

    During my nearly 30 years at ConocoPhillips, the predecessor company to Phillips 66, I developed an appreciation for the quality of the company’s assets and, more importantly, its people. However, it is my view that Phillips 66 has lost its way. I firmly believe the company can restore its prior stature as a leader in the energy industry, but only if it makes the kinds of operational and strategic changes that are urgently needed.

    I have been disappointed by what I see as a breakdown in effective corporate governance at Phillips 66. I know from experience how critical it is for a company to have a strong Board — possessing both the independence and the expertise to question management’s assumptions about the business and consider the long-term implications of every decision. I don’t see evidence of that kind of culture today on the Phillips 66 Board.

    For example, Phillips 66 has been pursuing a strategy for many years that emphasizes and grows midstream assets alongside its refining business, despite evidence that this structure isn’t delivering value for shareholders relative to the company’s more streamlined peers. A stronger Board would have questioned why these disparate businesses – which trade at different multiples, trapping shareholder value and diluting management focus – belong together. And it wouldn’t require outside pressure to initiate a review of alternatives that could unlock that value and create the focus required to improve operations.

    For these reasons, I am supporting Elliott Investment Management in its engagement with Phillips 66. I believe Elliott’s nominees to the Board — some of whom I know personally from my time at ConocoPhillips — have the potential to instill a new culture in the Phillips 66 boardroom. They would bring much-needed experience and, just as important, a mindset that approaches each critical decision by asking the question, “What’s going to create the most long-term value?”

    I am motivated in part by the fact that Phillips 66 counts among its investors a large number of retail shareholders. These retirees, employees and other individual holders of Phillips 66 stock are counting on their investment to help them meet their financial goals. They deserve a Board that is fully committed to maximizing value on their behalf — one that works tirelessly to hold management accountable.

    To be clear, given my other commitments, I am not seeking a formal role with the company. However, I am committed to helping Phillips 66 reach its full potential, and I would be open to supporting the company, should the Board see fit. I am choosing to devote my time and energy to this effort because I believe Phillips 66 is not only a strong investment, but also a company where my support for Elliott’s campaign can make a difference for employees and investors alike.

    Sincerely,
    Gregory J. Goff

    About Gregory J. Goff

    Gregory J. Goff is an accomplished industry veteran with a 40+ year track record of successfully managing and growing energy and energy-related businesses. He has significant experience in the areas of refining, marketing & logistics, trading, and exploration & production.

    Mr. Goff was previously Chairman, President, and CEO of Andeavor (formerly known as Tesoro) from 2010 until its strategic combination with Marathon Petroleum in 2018. At Andeavor, Mr. Goff spearheaded a successful financial and operational transformation. Prior to joining Andeavor, Mr. Goff had a nearly 30-year career with ConocoPhillips, where he held various leadership positions in Exploration & Production, International Downstream, and Global Commercial Operations. Mr. Goff currently serves as CEO of Claire Technologies, Inc., a technology company providing low-carbon solutions to decarbonize the energy and transportation sectors.

    Mr. Goff is currently a member of the board of directors of Avient (formerly PolyOne Corporation), and XEnergy, a private American nuclear reactor and fuel design engineering company. Additionally, he is the Founder of the Goff Strategic Leadership Institute at the University of Utah.

    Media Contact:

    Dan Gagnier
    Gagnier Communications
    (646) 569-5897
    dg@gagnierfc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. Announces Initial Clinical Trial Site for its Phase 1 Clinical Trial of CER-1236 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SOUTH SAN FRANSCISCO, Calif., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., (Nasdaq: CERO) (“CERo” or the “Company”) an innovative immunotherapy company seeking to advance the next generation of engineered T cell therapeutics that employ phagocytic mechanisms, announces its first clinical trial site for the Company’s Phase 1 clinical trial of CER-1236.  The trial is focused on patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and patient enrollment is underway, with expected dosing of the first patient during the first half of 2025.

    The trial will be led by Abhishek Maiti, M.D., assistant professor of Leukemia at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

    The first-in-human, multi-center, open label, Phase 1/1b study is designed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of CER-1236 in patients with acute myeloid leukemia that is either relapsed/refractory, has measurable residual disease, or has a mutation of the TP53 gene. The two-part study will begin with dose escalation to determine highest tolerated dose and recommended dose for Phase 2, followed by an expansion phase to evaluate safety and efficacy.  Primary outcome measures include incidence of adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs), incidence of dose limited toxicities and estimation of overall response rate (ORR), complete response (CR), composite complete response (cCR), and measurable residual disease (MRD).  Secondary outcome measures include pharmacokinetics (PK).

    Chris Ehrlich, CERo Therapeutics CEO added, “It is encouraging to conduct our trial at one of the most renowned cancer centers in the United States, which we believe is a validation of the scientific work performed to date with CER-1236.  The assignment of clinical trial sites is an important milestone. We look forward to announcing enrollment and first dosing in the near term.”

    About CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

    CERo is an innovative immunotherapy company advancing the development of next generation engineered T cell therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Its proprietary approach to T cell engineering, which enables it to integrate certain desirable characteristics of both innate and adaptive immunity into a single therapeutic construct, is designed to engage the body’s full immune repertoire to achieve optimized cancer therapy. This novel cellular immunotherapy platform is expected to redirect patient-derived T cells to eliminate tumors by building in engulfment pathways that employ phagocytic mechanisms to destroy cancer cells, creating what CERo refers to as Chimeric Engulfment Receptor T cells (“CER-T”). CERo believes the differentiated activity of CER-T cells will afford them greater therapeutic application than currently approved chimeric antigen receptor (“CAR-T”) cell therapy, as the use of CER-T may potentially span both hematological malignancies and solid tumors. CERo anticipates initiating clinical trials for its lead product candidate, CER-1236, in 2025 for hematological malignancies.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This communication contains statements that are forward-looking and as such are not historical facts. This includes, without limitation, statements regarding the financial position, business strategy and the plans and objectives of management for future operations of CERo and the implementation of its proposed plan of compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards. These statements constitute projections, forecasts and forward-looking statements, and are not guarantees of performance. Such statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. When used in this communication, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “strive,” “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. When CERo discusses its strategies or plans, it is making projections, forecasts or forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on the beliefs of, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to, CERo’s management.

    Actual results could differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements in this communication. Certain risks that could cause actual results to differ are set forth in CERo’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and the documents incorporated by reference therein. The risks described in CERo’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission are not exhaustive. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can CERo assess the impact of all such risk factors on its business, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements made by CERo or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. CERo undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contact:
    Chris Ehrlich
    Chief Executive Officer
    chris@cero.bio

    Investors:
    CORE IR
    investors@cero.bio

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence supports SPAK Task Force to prevent and investigate electoral crimes

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Presence supports SPAK Task Force to prevent and investigate electoral crimes

    Head of SPAK Altin Dumani (left), Ambassador Tarran (across) and their staff meet on the occasion of a donation by the OSCE Presence to enhance SPAK’s newly-established Task Force’s capacities in preventing and investigating electoral crimes, Tirana, 9 April 2025. (OSCE/Joana Karapataqi) Photo details

    As part of its efforts to support the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), on 9 April 2025, the OSCE Presence in Albania donated several sets of IT equipment to enhance SPAK’s newly-established Task Force’s capacities in preventing and investigating electoral crimes in the 11 May parliamentary elections.
    The equipment – consisting of 25 laptops, 25 printers/scanners and accessories – will be used by the 13 mobile investigation units as well as the co-ordinating unit in Tirana. The mobile units will cover all 12 regions of Albania and will be composed of SPAK prosecutors, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) investigators, financial investigators and support staff. They will focus on preventing and investigating criminal offences related to misuse of public administration and state infrastructure as well as the involvement of criminal groups in elections.
    This technical assistance will be followed by capacity-building training aimed at enhancing the skills of special prosecutors, financial and NBI investigators in gathering, analysing and investigating evidence related to electoral crimes.
    During the handover ceremony at SPAK premises, Head of Presence Ambassador Michel Tarran and Head of SPAK Altin Dumani emphasized the importance of strong institutional mechanisms in safeguarding electoral processes.
    “Today is about more than just equipment – it is about empowering the institutions that contribute to strengthening Albania’s democracy. I would like to commend SPAK for their initiative and commitment to investigating and prosecuting electoral crimes. We hope that heightened co-ordination and action from relevant institutions will dissuade potential violators and are confident that your work will contribute to ensuring that elections are free from unlawful interference,” said Tarran.
    “Elections represent a cornerstone of a democratic state. We express our gratitude to the OSCE for its continued support. This equipment will help to enhance the capacity of special prosecutors and investigators in the timely identification and effective prosecution of electoral crimes”, said Dumani.
    The donation was made possible as part of OSCE Presence’s project “Support to electoral reform and processes in Albania” funded by Sweden, Switzerland, the U.S. Mission to the OSCE and Poland.
    The OSCE Presence remains committed to supporting Albania’s institution in further strengthening electoral integrity.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa faces critical shortage of oral health workers amid rising disease burden

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), April 9, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Africa faces a chronic shortage of oral health workers due to underinvestment, leaving millions of people without adequate care and vulnerable to preventable oral diseases, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) workforce fact sheet on oral health released today. 

    The WHO fact sheet states that the region has been experiencing the highest increased number of cases of oral diseases like dental caries, gum diseases, and tooth loss over the last three decades across all WHO regions. In 2021, around 42% of the population in the African region suffered from untreated oral diseases. This is compounded by a chronic shortage of health workers to address diseases burden. For example, between 2014 and 2019, the number of dentists and the number of oral health workers, including dentists, dental assistants/therapists and dental prosthetists per 10 000 population in the Region was one tenth and one sixth of the global ratio, respectively.

    In 2022, the region had only about 57 000 oral health professionals, representing a mere 1.11% of the total health workforce in the region and a ratio of 0.37 professionals per 10,000 people. This figure falls far below the 1.33 oral health workers per 10 000 (158 916 total; 83 099 dentists and 75 817 dental assistants and therapists) needed in 2022 to achieve basic universal health coverage targets. 

    This deficit exposes millions to preventable suffering and highlights a critical breakdown in oral health workforce. It also reveals the need for about 199 170 oral health workers (1.37 per 10 000 population) including 103 858 dentists and 95 312 dental health assistants and therapists by 2030.

    Oral health remains a low priority in many African countries, leading to inadequate financial and technical investment. Moreover, oral health has historically been siloed and treated as separate from general health and the broader health care system. This might contribute to isolated oral health management approaches, separated workforce training, increasing costs, and siloed care delivery infrastructures. This silo approach has led to competition for already scarce human and financial resources. Although there are over 4,000 health training institutions in the Region, only 84 dental education institutions were identified across 26 Member States. 

    The shortage of skilled oral health workforce hampers progress towards achieving universal health coverage. Only 17% of the regional population have access to essential oral health interventions as part of the health benefit packages of the largest government health financing schemes. Progress in disease prevention is also slow, including fluoride use and sugar reduction efforts. 

    “Africa cannot afford to neglect oral health. Neglect has severe, lasting consequences for overall well-being,” said Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa. “It’s crucial for countries to do more to increase health workforce, access to affordable prevention and care services and ensure that people are equipped with the knowledge and skill on promoting oral health.”

    The WHO Africa regional oral heath workforce fact sheet will serve as a reference for policymakers and a wide range of stakeholders. In addition, it guides the advocacy process toward better prioritization of oral health in the region to tackle this alarming oral health situation.

    It calls for urgent action to address the oral health workforce crisis, including aligning national oral health and health workforce strategies with the WHO Global oral health strategy, implementing needs-based planning for human resources for health, especially at the primary care level, enhancing data management systems, such as National Health Workforce Accounts to track workforce numbers and trends, shifting from treatment-oriented oral health care to integrated prevention and promotion approaches, particularly at the community and primary care levels and implementing innovative workforce models such as task-sharing of oral health services with oral health workers and non-oral health workers, improving training curricula, and developing retention and migration strategies.   

    “This factsheet calls for action. Increased investment and targeted interventions are critical to closing Africa’s oral health workforce gap. We must prioritize oral health as a fundamental component of Universal Health Coverage to improve health outcomes and reduce the disease burden across the region,” said Dr Ihekweazu.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Finance Corporation Tops US$1 Billion Revenue for First Time as Landmark Projects Unlock Growth Across the Continent

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

    LAGOS, Nigeria, April 9, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has announced its strongest financial performance to date, with total revenue for the year ended 31 December 2024 surpassing US$ 1 billion for the first time in the Corporation’s history.

    This record performance marks a significant milestone in AFC’s mission to close Africa’s infrastructure gap through scalable, de-risked investments that attract global capital and deliver tangible development outcomes. The Corporation posted a 22.8% increase in total revenue to US$1.1 billion and a 22.3% rise in total comprehensive income to US$400 million, up from US$327 million in 2023.

    AFC’s earnings growth was driven by improved asset yields, prudent cost-of-funds management and sustained traction in advisory mandates.  

    Further significant financial highlights include:

    • Net interest income up 42.5% to US$ 613.6 million
    • Fee and commission income rose to US$109 million, the highest in over five years
    • Operating income climbed 42.7% to US$709.7 million
    • Total assets reached a record US$14.4 billion, a 16.7% year-on-year increase
    • Liquidity coverage ratio strengthened to 194%, providing over 34 months of cover
    • Cost-to-income ratio improved to 17.3% from 19.6% in 2023

    Throughout 2024, AFC continued to scale its impact by mobilising capital for landmark projects across energy, transport, and natural resources. These included the Lobito Corridor – a cross-border railway development spanning Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia. AFC led the initiative to secure a concession agreement within one year of the initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), an unprecedented achievement for a project of its scale. In the DRC, AFC also invested US$150 million in the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, Africa’s largest copper producer and one of the most sustainable globally, thanks to its high-grade ore and renewable-powered smelter.

    Other milestones transactions included financing support for the commissioning of the Dangote Refinery, the largest in Africa, and continued progress on AFC-backed Infinity Power Holding’s 10 GW clean energy ambition, with power purchase agreements secured in Egypt and South Africa. AFC also invested in the 15GW Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project, providing US$14.1 million to support early-stage development of a transcontinental renewable energy pipeline between North Africa and Europe.

    AFC strengthened its capital base and expanded its investor network through several landmark funding initiatives. These included a US$ 1.16 billion syndicated loan – the largest in its history, a US$500 million perpetual hybrid bond issue, and the successful execution of Nigeria’s first-ever domestic dollar bond, which raised US$900 million at 180% oversubscription. AFC also returned to the Islamic finance market after eight years, closing a US$400 million Shariah-compliant facility.

    The year also saw strong momentum in equity mobilisation, with US$181.8 million in new capital raised from ten institutional investors. These included Turk Eximbank – AFC’s first non-African sovereign shareholder – the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and several major pension funds spanning Cameroon, Seychelles, Mauritius, and South Africa. Ratings agencies affirmed AFC’s robust credit profile, with AAA ratings from S&P Global (China) and China Chengxin International, and a stable A3 Outlook from Moody’s.

    “These results send a clear message that strategic investment in African infrastructure creates lasting value for both beneficiaries and investors,” said Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of AFC. “In 2024, we exceeded the billion-dollar revenue mark, delivered game-changing projects, and reinforced our financial resilience—demonstrating the scalability of our unique model that blends purpose with performance to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation.”

    Read the full annual report here (https://apo-opa.co/424qlmR)

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cabinet to consider move towards zero waste

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet is set to consider a new Zero Waste Strategy, which will look to rid the City Region of all unnecessary waste by 2040.

    The strategy, co-created by all councils in the Liverpool City Region and the Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority (MRWA), is an important step towards the Council’s plans to significantly reduce carbon emissions from waste collection and disposal in the next 15 years.

    If agreed at next week’s Cabinet Meeting, the strategy will work alongside the Council’s Recycling and Waste Strategy, which was adopted earlier this year.

    Currently, waste collection and processing in Liverpool creates 51,751 tonnes of CO2 each year, the equivalent of 9,200 car journeys circumnavigating the globe.

    Both the newly proposed strategy and existing waste strategy share targets to reduce purple bin waste by 50 per cent by 2040 and achieve a recycling rate of 65 per cent, up from the current rate of 17.9 per cent, in the next 10 years.

    The Zero Waste Strategy, if agreed, could reduce carbon emissions emitted by waste collection and processing across the region by 80 per cent.

    To help reach these goals, the strategy adopts three main themes of ‘People, Planet, and Economy’. Together, the City Region partnership would focus on awareness and education, promoting positive behaviours in buying habits to prevent waste from being created in the first place.

    This includes meal planning to prevent excess food, reusing and repairing items rather than throwing them away, and buying second hand.

    The strategy explains that the best way to remove carbon emissions from waste is by creating a circular economy. This means encouraging businesses and manufacturers to reduce waste created during the production process, while making materials that can be used again and again.

    If items do need to be thrown away, they should be recycled so that the raw materials can be used to manufacture new products.

    One major step towards a circular economy is the introduction of a food waste collection, which all local authorities across the country must introduce by the end of March next year.

    Households across Liverpool will have a new, weekly food waste collection, which will see unused food taken away to be broken down and repurposed.

    The Council is committed to reducing the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere. In 2019, it declared a climate emergency, followed by an action plan to reach net zero across all Council operations by 2030.

    One of the key aims outlined in the plan is to tackle the carbon footprint created through waste collection and processing. Both strategies outline clear steps needed in Liverpool to reach this goal.  

    Work has already started to meet these goals, with the introduction of solar bins and underground refuse bins across the city, as well as optimising collection routes. Together, these changes have reduced the frequency of collections and to the number of emissions released while doing so.

    The Council has also worked with residents to promote positive waste behaviours, including the introduction of a new environmental enforcement team to tackle fly-tipping and Keep Liverpool Tidy, which has seen a big increase in community litter picking since it started in 2022.

    Further support is available for residents looking to reduce their waste on zerowastelcr.com, including an interactive map featuring charity shops, refill shops, and repair and reuse organisations.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council said: “Liverpool City Council remains fully committed to achieving net zero, and the new Zero Waste Strategy will be a crucial step towards that goal.

    “By working in partnership with our City Region colleagues, we can create meaningful change that benefits everyone, but we can’t do this alone. Only by working together serving residents and businesses can we fully address the climate crisis and create a sustainable future.

    “Not only will this strategy help us to do our bit to protect the planet, but it will also save residents money. If we repair and reuse more often than throwing away, there’ll be less need to buy new items and we can move towards eliminating single-use materials.

    “Together we can create a greener, more sustainable Liverpool for future generations.”

    Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Communities and Streetscene said: “Our Recycling and Waste Strategy already sets out an action plan to reduce the amount of rubbish across the city and this new Zero Waste Strategy is further confirmation that these steps are vital.

    “While the waste that doesn’t get recycled in Liverpool is incinerated to make energy which goes back into the system, this still releases harmful gases into the environment. The only way to combat this is to reduce the amount of rubbish that we produce and increase the amount sent to be recycled.

    “We’re already tackling the amount of waste both on our streets and in our homes and making our waste collection as sustainable as possible. Our successful solar bin pilot and eco-friendly waste wagons are both working towards reducing the number of emissions in collecting our waste. In the near future we’ll be introducing food waste collections and increasing the number of materials households can recycle too, but there’s still more that we can do together.

    “We have a collective responsibility to make sure the actions we take now has a positive impact for our planet in the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – Subsidies and support to achieve financial autonomy: How the Dicastery for Evangelization supports local Churches

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 9 April 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – How much funding does the Dicastery for Evangelization (Section for First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches) allocate to help the dioceses in the territories under its jurisdiction achieve financial autonomy? This question was discussed yesterday in the Aula Magna of the Pontifical Urbaniana University, which provided the setting for the IV Study Day dedicated to the chair named after Cardinal Velasio De Paolis, the Scalabrinian Cardinal, an authoritative canonist, who died in 2017.Speakers included Professor Vincenzo Buonomo, Grand Rector of the Pontifical Urbaniana University, Professor Andrea D’Auria, Dean of the Faculty of Canon Law, and Professor Yawovi Jean Attila.Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Secretary of the Dicastery and Vice Grand Chancellor of the Pontifical Urbaniana University, presided over and moderated the day. Father Tadeusz J. Nowak, OMI, Secretary General of the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith, along with Sister Roberta Tremarelli (AMSS), who works in the administration of the Pontifical Mission Societies, illustrated what it means to accompany local Churches on their path to financial independence.In his address, Father Nowak recalled that to date, more than 3,000 particular Churches in communion with the Successor of Peter fall under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization. This represents more than a third of all particular Churches in the world, he emphasized. Specifically, the list includes “dioceses, both of the Latin and Eastern Rites, apostolic vicariates, apostolic prefectures, apostolic administrations, missions sui iuris, territorial prelatures, and territorial abbeys.”While “in the past, a particular Church began with a mission in an area where the Gospel had only recently been proclaimed and the Church was not yet truly established,” which was then “elevated to the rank of apostolic vicariates and later to the rank of dioceses,” today “most new Churches arise from the division of existing dioceses in areas where the Church was already present.” However, they remain “under the care of the Dicastery for Evangelization until they achieve full financial autonomy.” Once this is achieved, “they may request to be transferred from the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization to that of the Dicastery for Bishops.”A transition that can take up to several hundred years, added Father Nowak, recalling that “the Dicastery for Evangelization accompanies the churches under its authority on their path to financial autonomy, primarily through the Pontifical Mission Societies (the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith, the Pontifical Society of St. Peter the Apostle, the Pontifical Society of Holy Childhood, and the Pontifical Missionary Union).The task of these four Societies, according to the Secretary General of the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith, is to place themselves at the service of the Pope and his “care for missionaries.” Above all, however, the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith specifically accompanies young Churches by providing financial subsidies for the creation and strengthening of their ecclesial infrastructure.Last year alone, the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith “disbursed more than $23 million in ordinary subsidies,” which bishops can use “for any purpose related to the pastoral life and evangelization of the local Church.” “Normally,” Father Nowak explained, “this grant is used for the health care of the clergy or for the office expenses of the diocesan Curia. Without such subsidies, the dioceses would suffer great difficulties that would slow down or even hinder the work of evangelization.” In this context, for example, the Society for the Propagation of the Faith also provided “almost $9 million” in subsidies “for the support of catechists in the particular Churches.” This money was used “to provide resources for the support and training of catechists.” Because, as Father Nowak emphasized, “catechists are indispensable because the number of ordained priests in many territories is insufficient to ensure adequate pastoral care for all the baptized.” In addition to ordinary subsidies, there are also extraordinary subsidies for which the Pontifical Mission Societies receive “thousands of requests every year.” In most cases, these are requests for financing the construction of chapels and churches, monasteries, schools, clinics, pastoral centers or homes for retired clergy, as well as for the purchase of transportation for missionaries, etc. For these types of projects, “the Society for the Propagation of the Faith allocated more than 16 million dollars in 2024.” “The Dicastery has provided extraordinary subsidies, responding to requests from bishops in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas,” said Father Nowak, who pointed out that the Society “also provides more than nine million dollars a year for the administration of five colleges in Rome, which serve the ongoing formation of clergy and religious of the particular Churches under the care of the Dicastery. Hundreds of priests and religious from these Churches can thus come to Rome to pursue advanced academic studies and then return to their local Church to provide valuable services to the pastoral life of the particular Church.”Not only that: “Every year, the Dicastery for the Oriental Churches receives significant financial support from the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith to accompany the Churches of the Oriental Rite on their path to financial autonomy.” The Dicastery, the Secretary General continued, “also provides the episcopal vestments for priests appointed bishops in the particular Churches administered by the Dicastery (including two episcopal cassocks, a miter, the episcopal ring, the bishop’s cross, and crosier). In this way, the new bishop is fully equipped to begin his episcopal ministry.”It must be clarified, as Sister Roberta Tremarelli also emphasized, that “the Dicastery for Evangelization does not finance projects through the Pontifical Mission Societies.” According to the statutes of the Pontifical Mission Societies, they “participate in projects initiated by the local community and for which it assumes responsibility. The bishop must present a solid financial plan for the implementation of the project and commit the community to its completion and ongoing maintenance.” In this sense, it is being examined “whether a room created for children’s catechism can also be used for other purposes,” which could also lead to “continuous funding for the structure itself over time,” Sister Roberta Tremarelli emphasized, concluding: “The subsidy is an aid; the Pontifical Mission Societies must not replace the local Church. Our aid must be based on the principle of autonomy.”In this way, the particular Churches are encouraged to manage their finances responsibly and transparently, while remaining independent of external funding: “We are rich in young Churches, but we must not remain immature Churches. The growth and independence of the local Churches is our goal,” Archbishop Nwachukwu said in his concluding remarks. (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 9/4/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jan Frait: Monetary policy analysis at the crossroads – insights from central banks’ reviews

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Introductory remarks for the Panel Discussion

    It is a great honour for me to chair the second panel today, in which we move further towards research and academic thinking. In particular, we will focus on the analytical and modelling frameworks used by central banks to support monetary policy decision-making.

    Before we do so, I’d like to start by introducing myself as a monetary policymaker with some personal statistics. I have attended more than 200 monetary policy meetings in one capacity or another. As a board member, I have voted 93 times – 31 times for a cut and only twice for a hike. That looks pretty dovish, for sure. On the other hand, for 87% of the time I’ve been voting on interest rates, the relevant monetary policy rate has been higher than headline inflation. This appears more hawkish. Well, things are really state-dependent.

    No matter how long or how many times I’ve done this, I still consider myself a young apprentice, caught between Scylla and Charybdis – to borrow a lyric from one of my favourite bands, The Police. I approach decision-making with plenty of humility. In other words, even after all these years, much of what goes on in the economy remains to some extent a mystery to me. I don’t feel I understand macroeconomic dynamics much better than I did 20 years ago.

    When I was a student, macroeconomics and monetary theory textbooks described monetary policy as more of an art than a science. By the time I joined the Czech National Bank at the beginning of the century, it was a different story. Monetary policy had been operating under the then-new inflation-targeting regime for two years. Decision-making was increasingly based on a modelling framework derived from New Keynesian macroeconomics, which had gained the status of a fully-fledged science. Whether or not it actually deserved it was never discussed at the time.

    One of the key aspects of this new paradigm was the belief that vague monetary policy objectives such as “sound money”, “monetary stability”, and “macroeconomic stability” should be replaced by the more concrete objective of price stability – ideally in the form of a specific numerical inflation target expressed as growth in the consumer price index.

    After more than a quarter of a century of experience with this approach, I’m inclined to think that, as usual, we romantically overestimated its capacity. The primary monetary policy objective started to be viewed too narrowly. The focus on a specific number was opportunistically misused to maintain extremely low interest rates and highly supportive monetary policy in times of positive supply shocks, even when there weren’t always strong macroeconomic grounds for doing so.

    In many countries, monetary policy became rather asymmetric. A regime designed to prevent time inconsistency in monetary policy often ended up fostering it. I constantly heard the argument, “It doesn’t matter that inflation is currently above the target. It’ll soon return to it thanks to anchored expectations.” Yet as soon as inflation dropped below the target, the rhetoric changed to, “There’s a threat of deflation. We need to have extremely low rates or use other instruments to ease monetary and financial conditions.”

    This was despite – or maybe even because of – the fact that monetary policy in developed countries had become a very powerful tool of economic policy. A tool on which hopes are pinned whenever sentiment worsens and economic activity slows. The models we use to assess and forecast macroeconomic developments undoubtedly encourage such hopes.

    In the summer of 2002, the Czech National Bank introduced a small-scale, semi-structural, gap-based model called the Quarterly Projection Model (QPM) for forecasting and analysis. QPM was a big step forward. It taught experts and board members to apply a model-consistent approach to macroeconomic policy. In a converging economy with a nominally appreciating currency and a rapidly developing financial sector, it was, of course, difficult for the model to explain everything that was happening. Frustration with the model outcomes began to mount when global macroeconomic volatility surged in 2007 amid large financial imbalances.

    I was no longer at the monetary policy coalface at that time, as between 2007 and 2022, I worked in financial stability and macroprudential policy. My only monetary policy-related legacy from this period can be seen on the webpage about “the mandate of the Czech National Bank”, which states: “Through the joint action of monetary policy and macroprudential policy, we contribute to maintaining confidence in the value of the Czech koruna and safeguarding the stability of the macroeconomic environment.” We keep doing so.

    Frustration with predictions probably drove the decision to switch hastily to a New Keynesian DSGE model in the summer of 2008. Maybe there were other reasons, but the Czech National Bank’s representatives did not expand on them at the time. Then the Global Financial Crisis erupted, and there was no longer any time for such discussions.

    It’s no secret that I never considered it beneficial to replace the semi-structural model with the DSGE model as the sole approach for macroeconomic forecasting. Not because I dislike one theory or model over another, but because theories and models are valuable to a central bank only to the extent that they facilitate an informed and sufficiently comprehensive debate – one that helps us understand the evolving economic story in the short, medium, and long run.

    Basing monetary policy decision-making solely on the microeconomically consistent but economically limited New Keynesian DSGE model ultimately narrowed the debate. The process became more automatic, and the decision-making appeared easier. The dilemmas that board members typically face became less visible. They were obscured by the standard linearization around the inflation target, which is typical of New Keynesian models. We tended to overestimate the impact of short-term interest rate changes while underestimating the effects of our powerful communication on long-term interest rates and asset markets. Paradoxically, this more “scientific” approach resulted in greater discretion in decision-making – and in sizeable unintended effects.

    Today, in 2025, we are a little more enlightened. The recent wave of inflation was a kind of blessing in disguise. It reminded us that monetary policy is still an art as well as a science. It taught us that the primary purpose of macroeconomic analysis is to distinguish fundamental trends from temporary fluctuations, local peculiarities from global phenomena, and supply shocks from demand shifts. It helps monetary policymakers be principled yet flexible in challenging times, especially during geopolitical and economic turbulence.

    In this context, it’s only natural that many inflation-targeting central banks are considering changes to their monetary policy frameworks. More than a year ago, the CNB also decided to undertake an external review of its monetary policy analytical and modelling framework – the first such review in its history. We commissioned three independent reviews to gain a comprehensive perspective. And we got it. Two of the three reviewers accepted our invitation to join this panel.

    Before I introduce the panellists, I’d like to make another musical analogy. I belong to a generation where many were briefly fascinated by jazz-rock – virtuoso musicians playing a lot of notes very fast. Amazing at first listen, still entertaining at the third, but for most of us, boring by the tenth – because the music lacked variation in mood, timbre, and rhythm. Then bands like The Police came along – jazz-trained musicians playing simple yet original songs in a technically brilliant yet energetic way, capturing the zeitgeist. With stops and double stops. Leaving plenty of space for the imagination.

    I’d be glad if this approach became more widespread in the modelling we do to support monetary policy decision-making. We need analyses that are technically rigorous yet responsive to economic, social, and political dynamics – driven by emotion and belief, scepticism and conviction, avarice and altruism. To achieve this, we must diversify our thinking, remain open to adjusting our mindsets when major shifts occur, and invest in people who can develop alternative models and implement fresh ideas from academic research. We should be open to semi-structural, DSGE, agent-based, and other sorts of models, and use them in a way that improves our understanding of sometimes enigmatic developments in the economy.

    Now I will truly hand over the mic to the power trio here today, who – except for one member – also happened to fly in from Britain. They all pay great attention to similar issues while differing in their methodological approaches.

    John Muellbauer is a Senior Research Fellow at Nuffield College, Professor of Economics, and a Senior Fellow at the Institute for New Economic Thinking at the Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford.

    He earned his undergraduate degree from Cambridge University and his doctorate from the University of California. John has collaborated with legendary macroeconomists and econometrists such as Charles Goodhart, David Hendry, Peter Sinclair, and Adrian Pagan. He has also served as a consultant for the Bank of England, HM Treasury, the South African Reserve Bank, and, more recently, the Czech National Bank. In 2024, he conducted a review of the Czech National Bank’s analytical framework for policy analysis and forecasting, assessing its core and satellite models as part of an integrated approach to monetary policymaking.

    Roman Šustek is a Reader in Economics at Queen Mary University of London and a Research Associate at the Centre for Macroeconomics at the London School of Economics. His research focuses on housing, mortgage finance, monetary policy, and the term structure of interest rates. He transitioned to academia after five years as an economist in the Monetary Assessment and Strategy Division of the Bank of England. He earned his PhD from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University, following an earlier role as an economist at the Czech National Bank in Prague. As part of the 2024 Czech National Bank monetary policy review, Roman contributed to the assessment of macroeconomic forecasting models and processes used in policy analysis. In his research and writings, Roman often focuses on the same topics as John, in particular on the links between household consumption, house prices, and mortgage regulation. These are ultimately the topics that were viewed as rather important by the BIS economists under our keynote speaker-Claudio Borio.

    Jakub Matějů is the Deputy Executive Director of the Monetary Department at the Czech National Bank and the Acting Director of the department’s Macroeconomic Forecasting Division. He is also temporarily heading the Monetary Department. His research and policy work focuses on macroeconomic forecasting and monetary policy. Before his current role, he worked as an economist in the CNB’s Monetary Department. He later joined the European Central Bank and served as a senior economist in the analytical team of Komerční banka. In 2019, he returned to the CNB as an adviser to the Bank Board and has been the Deputy Executive Director of the Monetary Department since 2023. Jakub has received several Czech Economic Society Young Economist awards and the CNB’s Economic Research Award for his research. He earned his PhD in Economics from CERGE-EI, following his studies at the Institute of Economic Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: Hugh White on what the next PM should tell Trump and defending Australia – without the US

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Trump ascendancy has forced international economic issues and the future strategic outlook onto the Australian election agenda, even if they are at the margins.

    This campaign – while dominated by domestic issues, notably the cost of living – is being conducted against the background of an extraordinarily volatile external situation, with major implications for Australia’s future.

    To discuss these issues, we were joined on the podcast by Hugh White, Emeritus Professor of Strategic Studies at the Australian National University. White is one of Australia’s foremost thinkers on defence policy, China and the region. His long career includes serving as an adviser to then federal defence minister Kim Beazley.

    White regards US President Donald Trump as a “revolutionary figure”:

    I think Trump is a genuinely revolutionary character, and not just his impact on American domestic politics and economics, I also think he has a huge impact on global strategic affairs. And the reason for that is that he does have a fundamentally different view of America’s place in the world than that of what we might call a Washington establishment.

    Donald Trump is really a kind of an old-fashioned isolationist. That is, he believes America’s strategic focus should be on the Western Hemisphere […] For example, in Ukraine he’s happy to see Russia assert itself as a great power in Eastern Europe. In Asia, I think, despite his reputation as a China hawk on economic issues, he doesn’t have any problem with China asserting itself as a great power in East Asia. He’s for these other great powers to dominate their backyards, just the way he wants America to dominate its backyard in the Western Hemisphere.

    Yet White doesn’t believe either Labor or the Coalition is taking defence seriously in this election.

    It’s not being treated as a real issue in the campaign, and that’s because both sides have determined that it won’t, and what underpins that is the absolutely rock-solid bipartisanship between the two of them on every significant issue. And I think that’s a very serious problem for Australia because at a time when our strategic circumstances are changing dramatically […] neither side has any inclination to have a serious conversation about what that means, why it’s happening, what we should be doing about it,

    A lot of the blame for that lies with the Labor Party, because it seems to me Labor’s political approach to the whole question of foreign affairs and defence for a very long time now has focused on minimising differences with the Coalition.

    While White agrees Australia needs new submarines, and quickly, he doesn’t think they should be nuclear-powered, as promised under AUKUS. He thinks we should leave AUKUS.

    We should have started building replacements for the [Collins-class submarine] around about 2010 or 2012. So we’re well over a decade late and I do think there’s a real risk that we’re going to lose our submarine capability altogether. But the way to solve that is not to push ahead spending billions and billions of dollars on a project which, even if it works, delivers the submarines we don’t need, and which is very unlikely to deliver any submarines at all.

    We’re past looking for a perfect submarine. We just need to get any submarine at all so we can keep some capability running and then once we have that running, we need to have a really focused programme. We need ministers to really tell Defence what to do, focus programmes to develop a follow on to the Collins-class design, because that’s the design we already know best in the world and to start building a new class of evolved Collins.

    After the May 3 election, when the next prime minister meets the US president to talk trade, defence and more, what should Anthony Albanese or Peter Dutton tell Trump? White says:

    Trump is very hard to handle. I don’t think there’s any magic formula that an Australian prime minister can utter, which makes Trump into either a more acceptable, economic partner for Australia or a more reliable strategic partner for Australia, because the forces that are driving America out of Asia are much bigger than Donald Trump.

    The most important thing an Australian political leader could say to Trump when he first meets him is, look, we understand where you’re coming from. We are happy to take responsibility for our own security. We don’t expect you to stay engaged in Asia to look after us in future. What we want you to do is to help us manage that transition as best we can and we’re prepared to pay for what we get.

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

    – ref. Politics with Michelle Grattan: Hugh White on what the next PM should tell Trump and defending Australia – without the US – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-hugh-white-on-what-the-next-pm-should-tell-trump-and-defending-australia-without-the-us-254197

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: Chalmers and Taylor quizzed on personal flaws during animated treasurers’ debate

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Perhaps the most compelling moment, at least for non-economists, in Wednesday night’s debate between Treasurer Jim Chalmers and his “shadow” Angus Taylor was when each man was forced to respond to what critics see as their personal flaws.

    Moderator Ross Greenwood, Sky’s business editor, put to Chalmers that people say “you’ve got a bit of a glass jaw, that you don’t cop criticism well”.

    “I think over time I’ve learned to understand that you take the good with the bad,” Chalmers responded, looking taken aback. “I think I’ve learnt over time to focus on the objective observers of the job that I’m doing and I think ultimately the Australian people will judge that rather than the kind of partisan commentators from time to time.”

    Taylor was told that “some people suggest that maybe you don’t put the work in”.

    “Well, you know, there’s lots of free advice in this game,” Taylor said. “You get it, Jim gets it, we all get it. But I tell you what, I work every single day for those hardworking Australians who work in Jim’s electorate, in my electorate, right around Australia […] I come from a hardworking family.”

    In the debate – a livelier encounter than Tuesday’s one between the leaders – the weapons of past promises were liberally deployed. Taylor invoked Labor’s unrealised $275 cut in power bills. Chalmers reached back to Tony Abbott’s pledge of no cuts to health and education, alleging a secret plan for cuts to pay for the Coalition’s nuclear scheme.

    The hour was filled with claims, counter claims, disputed figures, and accusations of lies.

    In the judgement of University of Canberra economist John Hawkins, Chalmers performed the better of the two.

    “He stayed on message, arguing the economy was improving, and the budget was in better shape than what he inherited. Given times of global uncertainty, he argued for a steady hand,” Hawkins said.

    “Angus Taylor was critical of economic conditions over the past three years but weak on what needed to be done differently, other than a temporary cut to the fuel tax and lower immigration. He did not effectively rebut Chalmers’ repeated claim that the Coalition stood for higher income tax, lower wages and no ongoing cost of living relief.

    “Taylor repeated [Opposition Leader Peter] Dutton’s unconvincing claim that under the Liberals, Australia would be virtually the only country in the world exempted from the Trump tariffs.

    “Chalmers thought the global tariff war would reduce Australia’s economic growth but not push us into recession. I thought he may have pointed out that in the global financial crisis Australia was one of the few OECD countries to avoid recession – and he was one of [former treasurer] Wayne Swan’s key advisers at the time, giving him some very relevant experience.”

    Business feels neglected

    Business, especially big business, is feeling somewhat neglected in this election. On April 20, business groups are joining to call for a commitment to a pro-business agenda.

    In letters to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Dutton and parliamentarians generally, the groups argue Australia has “one of the least competitive tax systems among comparable nations. We’ve burdened our economic engine room with countless new pieces of regulation and red tape. And the prosperity of all Australians suffers while our productivity lags.”

    Who fired up US senator Mark Warner on Australia’s tariff woes?

    Australia is bracing for a fresh tariff strike from US President Donald Trump, after he declared this week that “we’re going to be announcing a major tariff on pharmaceuticals”.

    Australia exports about $2 billion in pharmaceuticals to the United States, including $1.8 billion of blood products. These exports make up less than 0.3% of our goods exports to the world.

    Pharmaceuticals were set aside in last week’s tariff round for later consideration. In that round, Australia was only subject to the 10% general tariff.

    The US pharmaceutical industry hates the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, under which the government purchases drugs, leading to prices for Australians being cheaper than in the US. Both sides of politics say they wouldn’t compromise the PBS.

    Meanwhile, in Washington, Australia’s cause for an exemption from the 10% tariff has found a friend in Democratic Senator Mark Warner.

    In the Senate finance committee on Tuesday (Washington time) Warner quizzed US trade representative Jamieson Greer on why an ally had been badly treated.

    Why did Australia get “whacked”, Warner wanted to know, given the US has a trade surplus with it, and a free trade agreement. Besides, “they are an incredibly important national security partner”.

    Greer was unmoved. “Despite the agreement, they ban our beef, they ban our pork, they’re getting ready to impose measures on our digital companies.”

    So who is Warner, and why is he standing up for us? Bruce Wolpe, senior fellow at the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney and author of Trump’s Australia, says Warner, a long-time senator with a background in the tech industry, is a “low-key moderate”. He is a member of the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over trade, and the Select Committee on Intelligence. Warner is a supporter of AUKUS.

    “Someone briefed his staff [on the treatment of Australia] and it paid off,” Wolpe speculates. “Someone saw this was a chance the confront the US trade representative about Australia. They did a great job. It was terrific. It was a direct hit.” No one knows whether the hand of Kevin Rudd might have been involved.

    Industry Minister Ed Husic told the ABC: “I reckon I might see if I can get an honorary Order of Australia for senator Warner. Good on him. I like the cut of his jib. It was very defensive of Australia, but we heard the actual administration’s perspective running up the score against us.”

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

    – ref. Election Diary: Chalmers and Taylor quizzed on personal flaws during animated treasurers’ debate – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-chalmers-and-taylor-quizzed-on-personal-flaws-during-animated-treasurers-debate-253734

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bilirakis, Castor, Buchanan, and Soto Introduce Bill to Protect Florida’s Coasts from Offshore Drilling

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)

    TAMPA, FL – This week, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Vern Buchanan (FL-16), and Darren Soto (FL-9) introduced critical bipartisan legislation to permanently prohibit oil and natural gas exploration, development, and production off Florida’s coast. 

    “We’ve seen the long-lasting harm that can come from oil spills including: damage to the environment, disruption to marine life, and the paralysis of local economies that depend heavily on fishing, tourism, and recreation,” said Congressman Bilirakis.  “Protecting Florida’s pristine coastline from future oil spills is crucial for preserving its unique ecosystems.  Ensuring the health of the coastline will safeguard not only the environment but also the livelihoods of communities that rely on its natural beauty and resources.

    “Florida is a special but fragile place, and our way of life depends on clean water. Dangerous offshore drilling can devastate both our environment and our economy, posing huge risks to everything that makes Florida special. Our Florida coasts are beloved by people across the globe. Tourism is the lifeblood of our coastal economy in the Sunshine State, so we must ensure our water, beaches, wildlife, and fishing industry in the Eastern Gulf are sustained,” said Rep. Castor. “It is imperative that future generations of Floridians see our coasts preserved. We must permanently protect these waters, our planet, our pocketbooks and our people from costly oil spills and irresponsible usage of our precious land.”

    “While I support responsible investments in American energy, we must also recognize the unique importance of protecting Florida’s coastline,” said Rep. Buchanan. “The Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010 showed just how devastating an offshore spill can be to our economy, environment and way of life. As co-chair of the bipartisan Florida congressional delegation, I remain committed to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to safeguard our state’s beautiful beaches and coastal waters.”

    “Florida’s coastline is more than a beautiful backdrop—it’s a vital part of who we are. Our beaches and marine ecosystems support hundreds of thousands of jobs, drive tourism, sustain our fishing industries, and provide a home to some of the most unique and fragile wildlife in the world,” said Rep. Darren Soto. “Offshore drilling puts all of that at risk. One spill could devastate our economy and irreparably damage ecosystems that took generations to build. This bipartisan legislation reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding our waters—not just for today, but for every generation that comes after us. Floridians deserve clean beaches, thriving marine life, and a resilient coastal economy—and that starts with keeping oil rigs off our shores for good.”

     Endorsing organizations of the Florida Coastal Protection Act include Oceana, League of Conservation Voters, Surfrider Foundation, The CLEO Institute, Defenders of Wildlife, and Environment America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Zeelo Partners with Operators to Channel >$50 million into Local Transportation Businesses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Zeelo’s collaborative support to operator partners surpassed $50 million in 2024; a significant increase from the previous year.

    BOSTON, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global TransitTech leader Zeelo, through its trusted network of operator partners, channeled >$50 million into local transportation businesses in 2024. This milestone underscores Zeelo’s commitment to building long-term partnerships that empower operators to expand their fleets, generate employment, and meet the rising demand for high-quality shared transportation services, particularly in an industry that has long suffered from underfunding and inadequate support.

    “Our operator partners are at the heart of everything we do at Zeelo,” comments George Grundy, Director, US Operations at Zeelo. “We view our relationship as a true collaboration, working side-by-side with operators to unlock opportunities for sustained growth. Their expertise and commitment enable us all to succeed, and our predictable, supportive contracts provide the stability necessary for expansion.”

    Beyond fueling business growth, these robust partnerships make a significant local impact by creating jobs and enhancing access to reliable transportation. With over 15 million rides completed to date, Zeelo continues to drive meaningful change by connecting communities to work and opportunity.

    “Working with excellent professionals, knowing there’s always someone on the other end of the phone, and feeling that our comments and concerns are valued made partnering with Zeelo an easy decision. We feel that we have a true partnership, not just a vendor/client relationship. We are on the same team, working toward the same goals every day. It’s a great feeling,” said Tracey Salinger, President of Unique Limousine.

    Industry insights further underscore the opportunity: the global bus and coach market was valued at USD 72.11 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow to USD 151.62 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 9.9%. Despite its essential role in connecting students, employees, and underserved communities, the coach industry continues to face major hurdles due to short-term funding cycles, lack of inclusion in zero-emission investment schemes, and limited policy attention. While the CERTS Act offered a rare moment of legislative relief, many operators remain under significant financial pressure. With depleted fleets and only a partial rebound driven by corporate shuttle demand, the industry continues to face mounting challenges. Advocates caution that without long-term funding solutions, the vital role of private transportation in national mobility and employment ecosystems could be jeopardized.

    Add to this persistent driver shortages and rising operational costs, and it’s clear the industry needs targeted support. Without urgent policy action, the sector risks further decline, jeopardizing its ability to deliver economic, environmental, and social value across the communities it serves.

    “If we want to see a stronger, more sustainable future for transportation, we need to stand behind the bus, limo and motorcoach industry,” said Sam Ryan, CEO and Co-founder at Zeelo. “Backing our operators means backing better-connected communities and a more inclusive transport network for everyone.”

    Zeelo is also preparing to launch its new Operator Referral Scheme in the United States; a program designed to leverage operators’ local market knowledge to identify new business opportunities and expand Zeelo’s network of trusted partners.

    About Zeelo

    Zeelo is a leading global TransitTech company helping bus/motorcoach and limo operators, employers, and schools implement efficient, sustainable, and affordable transportation programs. Pioneering transport as a benefit, Zeelo enables organizations to improve workforce and student mobility through tailored, tech-driven shuttle solutions. Zeelo’s software and managed services optimize routes, cut costs, reduce CO₂ emissions, and simplify transport management. Following the 2024 acquisition of Kura, Zeelo expanded its leadership in shared mobility for workforce and education transport. With a US headquarters in Boston, MA, and operations across the US, UK, and Ireland, Zeelo was founded in 2016 by Sam Ryan, Barney Williams, and Dani Ruiz. The co-founders previously sold their ride-sharing app JumpIn to Addison Lee in 2014.

    Media Contact:
    Jack Hardiman
    Global Communications

    For more information, please visit zeelo.co/operators

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitdeer Announces March 2025 Production and Operations Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    — Completed mass production of SEALMINER A1s and 2.8 EH/s energized
    — Regulatory approval for Tydal, Norway site finalized
    — Retained Northland Capital Markets (“Northland”) to act as financial advisor for its HPC/AI data center development strategy

    SINGAPORE, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitdeer Technologies Group (NASDAQ: BTDR) (“Bitdeer” or the “Company”), a world-leading technology company for blockchain and high-performance computing, today announced its unaudited mining and operations updates for March 2025.

    Operational Update

    • Self-mined Bitcoin: 114 Bitcoins.
    • Mining Rig Manufacturing and R&D:
      • SEALMINER A1:
        • Completed mass production of approximately 3.8 EH/s of mining rigs.
        • 2.8 EH/s are energized, 0.6 EH/s have been delivered for installation, 0.3 EH/s are in-transit to the Company’s datacenters, with remaining to be delivered in April.
      • SEALMINER A2:
        • Wafer capacity disclosures will be paused temporarily. This decision was the result of a comprehensive consideration for maximizing the Company’s shareholders’ value. These disclosures were previously provided to assist potential mining rig buyers in making informed decisions. However, due to the current market uncertainty and the significant slowdown in mining rig demand, disclosure of total capacity is not currently useful. The Company’s self-mining hashrate forecast increased slightly this month and Bitdeer remains confident that the previously predicted hashrate targets in the second half of 2025 are achievable, on schedule, and can potentially exceed the Company’s expectations.
        • 0.8 EH/s of mining rigs have been shipped to customers and the Company’s own datacenters for self-mining, 0.4 EH/s have been manufactured and are ready for shipment and 1 EH/s are being assembled.
        • Sales of SEALMINER A2 are ongoing, ~0.3 EH/s of miners have been shipped to customers in March.
        • Launched SEALMINER A2 Pro series on March 17, 2025, featuring air-cooling (SEALMINER A2 Pro Air) and hydro-cooling (SEALMINER A2 Pro Hyd) models with a power efficiency ratio of 14.9 J/TH. The SEALMINER A2 Pro Air delivers up to 270 TH/s, while the SEALMINER A2 Pro Hyd reaches 530 TH/s, both with advanced efficiency, stability, and noise reduction. SEALMINER A2 Pro will be another commercialized product that is currently open for external sales.
      • SEALMINER A3:
        • SEAL03 sample wafers achieved an energy efficiency of 9.7 J/TH at the chip level during chip verification and prototype testing while running at low voltage, ultra power-saving mode. More risk wafers will be delivered in April for further testing and mass production ready R&D.
      • SEALMINER A4:
        • SEAL04 R&D remains on track to achieve an expected chip efficiency of approximately 5 J/TH with anticipated initial tape-out in Q4 2025.
    • HPC/AI:
      • Bitdeer has now formalized an engagement with Northland Capital Markets (“Northland”) to act as financial advisor for its HPC/AI data center development strategy.  Northland will assist Bitdeer with existing negotiations with potential development partners and provide guidance regarding capital providers.
      • Discussions are ongoing with multiple development partners and potential end users for selected large scale sites in U.S. for HPC/AI clouding business.
      • GB200 NVL72 reservations open – deployment is on schedule for 2025.
    • Hosting:
      • Client-hosted mining rigs increased by 3,000 units or 0.6 EH/s in March 2025, due to existing customers increasing hosted mining rigs.
    • Infrastructure:
      • Tydal, Norway: Regulatory approval has been obtained, with 70 MW set for energization and commissioning in early April and the remaining 105 MW scheduled for completion by mid-2025.
      • Rockdale, Texas, USA: 1.4 EH/s of SEALMINER A1 hydro mining rigs have been energized into 100 MW hydro-cooling conversion.
      • Clarington Phase 2, Ohio, USA: 304 MW land lease agreement signed and negotiating with regional utility.
      • Jigmeling, Bhutan: All electrical equipment has been delivered and is being installed, with completion and energization in Q2 2025 on track (see Infrastructure Construction Update section below for further details).
      • Oromia Region, Ethiopia: In early April, Bitdeer signed an SPA and a turnkey agreement for the acquisition and construction of a 50 MW mining datacenter in Ethiopia for US$7.5 million, including a local company with a mining permit, a 33kV substation connection, and a 4-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Ethiopian Electric Power Company. The Company is collaborating with an EPC contractor with specialized experience in Bitcoin mining and targeting energization by Q4 2025.

    Management Commentary

    “We achieved significant operational progress in March,” stated Matt Kong, Chief Business Officer at Bitdeer. “First, we completed mass production of 3.8 EH/s our SEALMINER A1 mining rigs and energized 2.8 EH/s, increasing our self-mining hashrate to 11.5 EH/s at the end of March with the remaining to be installed and turned on in April. Second, we launched the SEALMINER A2 Pro series Bitcoin mining rigs, delivering an efficiency of 14.9 J/TH. Finally, we obtained regulatory approval for Phase 1 and 2 of our Tydal, Norway site and we expect to energize more than 600 MW of power capacity over the next few months, including our Bhutan site.”

    Production and Operations Summary

    Metrics Mar 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2024
    Total hash rate under management1(EH/s) 24.2 20.9 22.5
    – Proprietary hash rate 12.1 9.4 8.4
    • Self-mining 11.5 9.0 6.7
    • Cloud Hash Rate – – 1.7
    • Delivered but not hashing 0.6 0.4 0.0
    – Hosting 12.1 11.5 14.1
    Mining rigs under management 175,000 163,000 226,000
    – Self-owned2 97,000 88,000 86,000
    – Hosted 78,000 75,000 140,000
    Bitcoins mined (self-mining only) 114 110 294
    Bitcoin held3 1,156 1,039 58


    1    Total hash rate under management as of March 31, 2025 across the Company’s primary business lines: Self-mining, Cloud Hash Rate, and Hosting.

    • Self-mining refers to cryptocurrency mining for the Company’s own account, which allows it to directly capture the high appreciation potential of cryptocurrency.
    • Cloud Hash Rate offers hash rate subscription plans and shares mining income with customers under certain arrangements. The Cloud Hash Rate stated above reflects the contracted hash rate with customers at month-end.
    • Hosting encompasses a one-stop mining machine hosting solution including deployment, maintenance, and management services for efficient cryptocurrency mining.

    2Self-owned mining machines are for the Company’s self-mining business and Cloud Hash Rate business.
    3Bitcoins held do not include the Bitcoins from deposits of the customers.

    Infrastructure Construction Update

    Rockdale, Texas – 100 MW Hydro-cooling conversion energization commenced:

    • All cooling system delivered and installed.
    • Approximately 1.4 EH/s of SEALMINER A1 hydro mining rigs have been energized.
    • Energization in accordance with the phase of delivery of mining rigs.

    Tydal, Norway – 175 MW site expansion anticipated to be fully energized by mid-2025:

    • Regulatory approval has been obtained.
    • 70 MW will be ready for energization and commissioning in early April, with the remaining 105 MW to be commissioned by mid-2025.
    • Installation of the transformers has been completed, with the delivery and installation of electrical equipment currently in progress. Additionally, the procurement and delivery of containers and hydro-cooling systems are underway, and drainage systems construction is ongoing.

    Massillon, Ohio – 221 MW site construction has begun ahead of schedule:

    • Substation construction is underway and is expected to be completed in Q3 2025.
    • Building design is completed and construction has begun earlier than expected, estimated to be completed in phases between Q3 and Q4 2025.
    • Estimated energization is expected to be completed in phases over Q3 and Q4 2025.

    Clarington Phase 2, Ohio – 304 MW: Signed lease agreement with the landlord and negotiating with regional utility.

    Jigmeling, Bhutan – 500 MW site is progressing well and is expected to be energized in phases beginning in April through June 2025:

    • All electrical equipment has been delivered and is currently being installed, with completion expected by Q2 2025.
    • The first main 132kV transformer has been powered on. The second main 132kV transformer is expected to be powered on in April 2025.
    • Construction of the 220kV substation is underway and is expected to be completed by Q2 2025.
    • Delivery of containers and hydro-cooling systems are in progress and is expected to be completed in phases by Q2 2025.

    Fox Creek, Alberta – 101 MW site acquired in Alberta, sitting on 19 acres, is fully licensed and permitted:

    • Acquisition includes all permits and licenses to construct an on-site natural gas power plant, as well as approval for a 99 MW grid interconnection with Alberta Electric System Operator (“AESO”).
    • Bitdeer will develop and construct the power plant in partnership with a leading engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) company and is expected to be energized by Q4 2026.

    Oromia Region, Ethiopia – Signed an SPA and a turnkey agreement for the acquisition and construction of a 50 MW Bitcoin mining project in Ethiopia for US$7.5 million:

    • Acquisition includes local Ethiopian company with a mining permit, connected to a neighboring transmission substation at 33kV interconnection.
    • This local Ethiopian company has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Ethiopian Electric Power Company for a duration of 4 years at an electricity price of approximately US$0.036/ kWh.
    • Bitdeer is working closely with an EPC contractor with specialized experience in Bitcoin mining and this mining project is expected to be energized in Q4 2025.
    Site / Location Capacity (MW) Status Timing4
    Electrical capacity      
    – Rockdale, Texas 563 Online Completed
    – Knoxville, Tennessee 86 Online Completed
    – Wenatchee, Washington 13 Online Completed
    – Molde, Norway 84 Online Completed
    – Tydal, Norway 50 Online Completed
    – Gedu, Bhutan 100 Online Completed
    Total electrical capacity 8955    
    Pipeline capacity      
    – Tydal, Norway Phase 1 70 In progress April 2025
    – Tydal, Norway Phase 2 105 In progress Mid 2025
    – Massillon, Ohio 221 In progress Q3-Q4 2025
    – Clarington, Ohio Phase 1 266 In progress Q3 2025
    – Clarington, Ohio Phase 2 304 Pending approval Estimate 2026
    – Jigmeling, Bhutan 500 In progress Q2 2025
    – Rockdale, Texas 179 In planning Estimate 2026
    – Alberta, Canada 99 In planning Q4 2026
    – Oromia Region, Ethiopia 50 In planning Q4 2025
    Total pipeline capacity 1,794    
    Total global electrical capacity 2,689    


    4     Indicative timing. All timing references are to calendar quarters and years.
    5 Figures may not add up due to rounding.

    Upcoming Conferences and Events

    • April 8 – 9, 2025: Jones Healthcare and Technology Innovation Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada
    • April 16, 2025: Jefferies Power x Coin Virtual Conference
    • May 14 – 15, 2025: Macquarie Asia Conference 2025 in Hong Kong
    • May 19 – 20, 2025: Barclay 15th Annual Emerging Payments and Fintech Forum in New York City
    • May 20, 2025: Benchmark Virtual Digital Asset Seminar
    • May 21 – 22, 2025: B. Riley 25th Annual Investor Conference in Marina Del Rey, California
    • May 28, 2025: Orange Group & Blockware Sell-side and Buy-side Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada

    About Bitdeer Technologies Group

    Bitdeer is a world-leading technology company for Bitcoin mining. Bitdeer is committed to providing comprehensive Bitcoin mining solutions for its customers. The Company handles complex processes involved in computing such as equipment procurement, transport logistics, datacenter design and construction, equipment management, and daily operations. The Company also offers advanced cloud capabilities to customers with high demand for artificial intelligence. Headquartered in Singapore, Bitdeer has deployed datacenters in the United States, Norway, and Bhutan. To learn more, visit https://ir.bitdeer.com/ or follow Bitdeer on X @ BitdeerOfficial and LinkedIn @ Bitdeer Group.

    Investors and others should note that Bitdeer may announce material information using its website and/or on its accounts on social media platforms, including X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Therefore, Bitdeer encourages investors and others to review the information it posts on the social media and other communication channels listed on its website.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans, and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “anticipate,” “look forward to,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including factors discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Bitdeer’s annual report on Form 20-F, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties, and other important factors in Bitdeer’s subsequent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof. Bitdeer specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether due to new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers should not rely upon the information on this page as current or accurate after its publication date.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Orange Group
    Yujia Zhai
    bitdeerIR@orangegroupadvisors.com

    Public Relations
    BlocksBridge Consulting
    Nishant Sharma
    bitdeer@blocksbridge.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HexyDog Launches Vision for Blockchain-Powered Payments to Support Animal Welfare

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HexyDog, a next-generation blockchain project focused on real-world adoption, has unveiled its upcoming decentralized payment ecosystem tailored to the pet care industry. Designed to support seamless, secure, and low-cost payments across pet shops, grooming salons, and veterinary clinics, the platform combines Web3 technology with a social impact mission.

    Currently in its presale phase, HexyDog is building a multi-chain ecosystem powered by the HEXY token, which aims to revolutionize how pet businesses process transactions. The project enables businesses to accept crypto payments, cut high processing fees, and engage with a growing base of tech-savvy pet owners who prefer decentralized solutions.

    A Blockchain Solution for the Pet Economy

    HexyDog is more than just a meme coin—it’s a functional crypto utility tailored for the pet industry. It empowers merchants with:

    • Instant, Borderless Payments: Say goodbye to third-party delays with direct, real-time settlements.
    • Lower Transaction Fees: Reduce overhead compared to traditional credit cards and payment gateways.
    • Immutable Ledger: Built-in blockchain security ensures transactions are tamper-proof and transparent.
    • Growing Crypto Adoption: Pet brands can now connect with Web3-native consumers eager to transact in digital assets.

    Real-World Partnerships and Purpose

    HexyDog’s blockchain ecosystem isn’t just theoretical—it’s designed for practical deployment. By partnering with pet businesses, HexyDog is building pathways for HEXY token utility beyond speculation. The project’s roadmap includes smart contract integration for efficient transactions and listings on key centralized exchanges (CEX) to increase liquidity and adoption.

    The team is also developing an Ambassador Program to drive community involvement and outreach. Volunteers will be able to participate in advocacy, grassroots campaigns, and real-world animal welfare activities aligned with HexyDog’s mission.

    Supporting Animal Welfare

    Aside from its blockchain payment project, HexyDog is also extremely committed to animal welfare. 5% of the presale proceeds will be donated directly to animal welfare groups, including shelters, rescue groups, and other groups that aim to improve the lives of animals.

    Impact on Animal Welfare

    This special commitment ensures that HexyDog is about more than just financial expansion. By investing part of presale crypto capital into promoting animal welfare, HexyDog unites investors and pet lovers around a good cause they can contribute to. Through this philanthropic business model, the project will be able to make a social impact while pushing adoption within the pet care space through cryptocurrencies.

    HexyDog Appeal Among Pet Lovers and Investors

    For investors, HexyDog offers the unique opportunity to be investor of a promising crypto presale project that combines blockchain technology with a growing market within the pet care industry. As it is aimed at efficient payment, social good, and developing market, HexyDog can be an excellent investment for whoever is ready to explore opportunities crypto space provides.
    This crypto presale provides early investors with the ability to purchase HEXY tokens at a discounted price, positioning them for appreciation when the whole project is live. With crypto adoption still on the rise, HexyDog will be perfectly positioned to be one of the leaders in the blockchain industry, and as an investment, it is a sound option.

    The Future of Pet Care Payments

    HexyDog is a great candidate to revolutionize blockchain industry by integrating it into pet market . HexyDog, through its blockchain solution, will offer faster, secure, and low-cost payments for businesses and consumers alike. By devoting 5% of presale funds to animal welfare, HexyDog also ensures that the project gives back to society in a positive way.

    As the use of cryptocurrencies keeps growing, HexyDog will be a leader in the pet care industry. It is a wonderful opportunity for pet businesses and investors to be part of an innovative project that will revolutionize the future of the industry while supporting a noble cause.

    About HexyDog

    HexyDog is a blockchain-based cryptocurrency project that merges decentralized finance with real-world pet care applications. The platform enables crypto-based payments in the pet industry, supported by a strong community, partnerships, and a social mission to fund animal welfare. Learn more or join the presale at https://hexydog.com.

    More information about Hexydog presale:

    Website : https://hexydog.com   

    Twitter : https://x.com/hexydog

    Telegram : https://t.me/hexydog

    Whitepaper: https://hexydog.com/assets/HEXYWhitepaper.ChoyA6JT.pdf

    Media Contact Details:

    Company Name: Hexydog
    Company website: https://hexydog.com
    Company Email: onur@hexydog.com
    Concern Person: Onur Akin

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2cf20054-236b-4cc6-8fcc-d03e621e5183

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX Hits Soft Cap as $XPL Presale Enters Final Phase, Limited Time Left Before Hard Cap

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The first AI-powered decentralized exchange built on the XRP Ledger, XploraDEX, has officially achieved its soft cap fundraising goal, marking a major milestone in one of the most talked-about DeFi token sales of the year. With the $XPL Token Presale now entering its final phase, investors are racing to get in before the hard cap is reached and the sale ends.

    Momentum has exploded over the past several days as word spread about XploraDEX’s breakthrough offering: an AI-integrated trading platform that brings hedge-fund-level technology to everyday XRP traders. This is not just another DEX—XploraDEX is building intelligent infrastructure that empowers users to trade smarter, faster, and more profitably.

    JOIN $XPL PRESALE

    The $XPL token, which powers the entire protocol, is now in red-hot demand. Following the soft cap breakthrough, investor confidence has surged, with participation pouring in from both retail and whale investors. According to the development team, the remaining allocation is shrinking fast, and the opportunity to join the presale at current pricing is about to close.

    Why the Surge in Demand?

    XploraDEX is delivering what XRP’s DeFi scene has been missing: intelligent automation, adaptive AI tools, and real-time trade optimization—all running natively on XRPL. Traders can execute personalized strategies, receive predictive market insights, and engage with smart liquidity routing—all without needing coding knowledge or third-party bots.

    And it’s not just hype. XploraDEX already has working AI modules in beta, a live dashboard in development, and integrations with leading XRPL wallets. With a roadmap that includes sentiment-based trading alerts, cross-asset AI bots, and advanced staking mechanics, it’s easy to see why the smart money is moving quickly.

    PARTICIPATE IN $XPL PRESALE

    $XPL Powers Everything

    Holding $XPL Token unlocks the platform’s most valuable features—from AI-based trading dashboards to staking rewards, fee discounts, and governance access. Early buyers in the presale phase also gain early access to unreleased tools and higher-yield staking tiers, giving them a first-mover advantage as adoption grows.

    With the $XPL soft cap now in the rearview mirror, XploraDEX is laser-focused on closing out the presale by hitting its hard cap. Once that happens, the token will be officially listed on major XRPL-based DEXs, and the next phase of platform rollouts will begin.

    Buy $XPL Tokens Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Limited Time! Limited Allocation!

    With only a small percentage of $XPL left in the presale round, the window to get in early is closing by the hour. This is the final chance for investors to lock in their allocations before the price jumps and listings go live.

    If you’ve been watching from the sidelines, now is the moment to act. The combination of smart tech, real progress, and early-stage access is rare—and with XploraDEX, it’s all happening on the fastest, most scalable chain in DeFi.

    Join the $XPL Presale Before It Ends: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e24544e8-e5df-4ab4-aced-fccc3e5c8601

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Emerald Technology Ventures Celebrates Four Portfolio Companies in TIME’s World’s Top GreenTech Companies of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Emerald Technology Ventures, a global pioneer in venture capital dedicated to sustainable technologies and industrial innovation, has announced that four of its portfolio companies have been named to TIME magazine’s prestigious Top GreenTech Companies of 2025 list. Nanograf, Tropic, and Ineratec secured spots in the top 100, while Paptic landed in the top 150. The TIME Magazine and Statista analysis evaluated over 8,000 companies worldwide, considering factors such as environmental impact, financial strength, and innovative potential. Emerald Technology Ventures’ success in this ranking highlights the firm’s keen eye for transformative green technologies.

    As the first independent cleantech venture capital fund in Europe, Emerald has carved out a distinctive space in venture capital for over two decades, leading the charge for sustainable industrial innovation. Emerald backs innovators that deliver both environmental impact and financial success. Today’s recognition underscores that sustainable technology is not just a moral imperative—it’s instrumental in gaining a competitive advantage, with Emerald at the forefront of helping large corporations adapt and discover the technology that will bring their business into a successful future.

    Highlighted Portfolio Companies

    Nanograf
    Ranked as 51, the Chicago based company, Nanograf, is a leader in advanced battery materials. By developing advanced graphene-based materials, Nanograf dramatically improves battery performance and energy storage capabilities. Their innovative nanotechnology solutions enable longer-lasting, faster-charging batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems, addressing critical challenges in clean energy infrastructure.

    Tropic
    Another honoree, ranked 82, Tropic (formerly Tropic Biosciences) continues to push the boundaries in sustainable agriculture through genetic innovation. Its flagship innovation leverages gene-editing technologies, such as CRISPR, to develop resilient tropical crops like bananas and coffee. Tropic’s work enhances crop durability against climate change-induced stresses—drought, pests, and diseases—while reducing pesticide use and food waste. For instance, its non-browning banana variety extends shelf life, addressing supply chain inefficiencies.

    Ineratec
    Also placed in the top 100, Ineratec, ranked 94, is a pioneer of sustainable synthetic fuels through its Power-to-Liquid (PtL) technology. Its innovation centers on modular, microstructured reactors that convert renewable electricity, CO2 (captured from the air or industrial sources), and hydrogen into carbon-neutral e-fuels like e-kerosene, e-diesel, and e-methanol. These drop-in fuels decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors like aviation and shipping, with a Frankfurt facility set to become Europe’s largest e-fuel plant by late 2025, producing thousands of tons annually. Ineratec’s scalable, efficient reactors offer superior heat transfer and rapid deployment, advancing the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy carriers.

    Paptic
    Securing a position as 144, Paptic represents Emerald’s diverse approach to sustainable innovation. Based in Espoo, Finland, Paptic is redefining packaging with its wood-based, recyclable material designed to replace single-use plastics. Its innovation is a bio-based, fiber-derived “paper-textile” that combines the durability and flexibility of plastic with the recyclability and biodegradability of paper. Produced from sustainably managed forests, Paptic’s material—available in variants like Tringa—saves 20-30% water and energy compared to traditional paper production while offering tear resistance and water repellency. Used in e-commerce packaging, retail bags, and more, it integrates with existing manufacturing lines, supporting a circular economy by reducing plastic waste and fossil resource dependency.

    About Emerald Technology Ventures
    Emerald is a globally recognized venture capital firm, founded in 2000, that manages and advises assets of over €1 billion from its offices in Zurich, Toronto and Singapore. The firm invests in start-ups that tackle big challenges in climate change and sustainability, with four current funds, hundreds of venture transactions and five third-party investment mandates, including loan guarantees to over 100 start-ups. Bold Ideas. Bright Future. www.emerald.vc.

    Media Contact
    Len Fernandes
    Firecracker PR
    len@firecrackerpr.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/71b23075-0133-4355-bc40-24f7174a9fdf

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: M Love Vintage Holdings Inc. Embarks on New Era of Luxury Vintage Fashion Under The Now Corporation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PASADENA, Calif., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Now Corporation (OTC: NWPN) (“The Company”) is proud to spotlight the evolution and resurgence of classic American style through its wholly owned subsidiary, M Love Vintage Holdings Inc. Building upon the iconic legacy established by Chuck’s Vintage—a name synonymous with high-quality, timeless denim and authentic Americana fashion—M Love Vintage Holdings is taking bold steps toward redefining the vintage luxury market with a new production line designed to inspire today’s leading designers and stylists.

    The original Chuck’s Vintage store, once a go-to destination for celebrities, designers, and fashion aficionados in Los Angeles, carved out a unique identity within the fashion landscape. Its curated collection of heritage denim, military pieces, and vintage garments created a cult following, drawing admiration from global fashion houses and cultural icons. Now, M Love Vintage Holdings is harnessing that legacy, bringing a modern edge to the brand’s timeless appeal, and positioning itself at the forefront of the luxury vintage fashion movement.

    “We are honored to carry forward the legacy of Chuck’s Vintage through M Love Vintage Holdings,” stated Alfredo Papadakis, CEO of The Now Corporation. “Our mission is to preserve the soul of classic American fashion while expanding its reach and relevance for a new generation of creatives. By developing a specialized production line tailored to contemporary designers, we’re not only reviving the heritage—we’re reimagining it.”

    This strategic initiative marks a pivotal moment for M Love Vintage Holdings, as the brand prepares to launch a bespoke collection that blends old-world craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. The upcoming production line will feature meticulously restored vintage textiles, upcycled denim, and limited-edition capsule pieces that reflect both historical authenticity and sustainable innovation.

    Reinventing the Classics for Today’s Visionaries

    At the heart of M Love Vintage Holdings’ growth strategy is its commitment to creativity, quality, and collaboration. The new designer-focused line will serve as a premium resource for fashion houses, independent labels, and stylists seeking inspiration from authentic vintage aesthetics while contributing to sustainable fashion practices.

    In an industry increasingly driven by the convergence of history and innovation, M Love Vintage Holdings is carving out a space where nostalgia meets cutting-edge design. Each garment will tell a story—whether through hand-sourced military surplus jackets, mid-century denim finds, or custom-tailored silhouettes inspired by classic Americana.

    “Fashion is a reflection of culture, and vintage fashion is a mirror of time. Our goal is to empower today’s designers by giving them access to rare, high-quality vintage pieces that can be reinterpreted in exciting, sustainable ways,” added Papadakis.

    Reviving a Beloved Brand for a Global Audience

    The resurgence of M Love Vintage Holdings under The Now Corporation’s umbrella signals a larger commitment to heritage branding and the elevation of vintage fashion as a luxury category. As global consumers continue to embrace circular fashion models, M Love Vintage Holdings is ideally positioned to serve this growing demand with authenticity, quality, and a deep-rooted story that resonates.

    By leveraging the foundation laid by Chuck’s Vintage, M Love Vintage Holdings is set to become an influential force in the evolving fashion economy. With plans to expand its digital presence, launch exclusive partnerships, and introduce a series of limited-edition drops, the company is cultivating a vibrant ecosystem around collectible vintage fashion and timeless design.

    What’s Next for M Love Vintage Holdings:

    As 2025 unfolds, fashion insiders and enthusiasts alike can expect a series of strategic updates from M Love Vintage Holdings, including:

    • The launch of a signature designer capsule collection.
    • Expansion of e-commerce and digital storytelling platforms.
    • Collaborations with sustainability-focused influencers and stylists.
    • Behind-the-scenes content showcasing restoration processes and vintage sourcing.

    Stay connected with M Love Vintage Holdings as the company unveils its next chapter—where heritage craftsmanship meets innovative design and Chuck’s Vintage’s legacy lives on through every stitch and silhouette.

    About The Now Corporation:
    The Now Corporation (OTC: NWPN) is committed to advancing clean energy solutions through its subsidiary, Green Rain Solar Inc. Green Rain Solar focuses on urban rooftop solar installations and grid-connected power solutions, targeting markets with high energy costs. By combining state-of-the-art solar and battery technologies, The Now Corporation is dedicated to driving innovation and sustainability in the renewable energy sector. Please visit: https://greenrainenergy.com/

    Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is subject to the safe harbor created by those sections. This material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward- looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. This includes the possibility that the business outlined in this press release may not be concluded due to unforeseen technical, installation, permitting, or other challenges. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of The Now Corporation to differ materially from those expressed herein. Except as required under U.S. federal securities laws, The Now Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    For press inquiries, please contact:
    Michael Cimino
    Michael@pubcopr.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e716abfd-17a9-49e9-937e-80626e4e35eb
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c934e39a-a945-41e3-aa67-ebaa04e751ed
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b0e4f836-71c8-4f53-857d-4de14316f515

    A video accompanying this announcement is available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d2894fcf-6158-445f-bb8d-e6b1ef1ba811

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How windfalls from commodity price booms come back to bite exporters

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lotanna Emediegwu, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Manchester Metropolitan University

    Zhengzaishuru/Shutterstock

    When the wholesale prices of essential goods like food or oil suddenly rise, it can cause deep shifts in the economy that upend trade balances and hike inflation rates. This is known as a commodity price boom.

    The outbreak of war in Ukraine in February 2022 spurred European and US sanctions on Russian oil companies which restricted global oil supply. The ensuing shock hiked energy prices in the international market and meant that the price of Brent crude, a global benchmark for oil prices, reached US$122 (£95) a barrel on March 21 that year, its highest level since 2015.

    Price inflation has forced households in importing nations like the UK to pay a premium to fill up cars. It has also raised food prices, as the cost of shipping food to supermarkets and restaurants has increased, as well as utility bills.

    Meanwhile resource-rich exporter nations can make a killing and choose to use the additional revenue to subsidise energy for consumers, issue rebates, or increase funding for public services. Less evident, but no less significant however, are the environmental consequences of these booms.

    A study I published with colleagues showed that democratic nations in oil-rich regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa, are especially prone to increasing pollution when the oil price suddenly soars. This phenomenon stems from the need to ramp up production quickly, to capitalise on fleeting price hikes, which economies with less democratic oversight are able to bypass.

    These (ostensibly) democratic economies appear most attentive to market signals, and in their unbridled rush for quick economic gain, typically raise pollution as they extract and sell more. This is especially true with oil extraction, which produces pollutants linked to cancer.

    We investigated global commodity price booms using the commodity windfall index. This is a collection of prices that market analysts collate to track changes and detect booms as they develop. We measured the effect of price booms on the environment by analysing how air pollution changed in producer countries when the prices of commodities in the index changed.

    The index covers 40 commodities across energy, metals, food and beverages, and agricultural raw materials such as wheat. One is particularly damaging to the environment: oil production.

    The top five oil producers as of 2023 (the most recent year for which data exists) are developed nations: the US (22%), Saudi Arabia (11%), Russia (11%), Canada (6%), and China (5%). As global exporters, all benefit from windfalls caused by oil price spikes.

    Increasing commodity prices justify more intense exploration for new reserves. In the case of oil exploration, this involves seismic surveys, drilling and the use of heavy machinery which consumes lots of fossil energy and releases greenhouse gases like CO₂.

    Oil price surges could make democracies less green

    Among oil-producing and exporting economies, democratic nations are more likely to experience increased pollution during commodity windfalls, compared with autocratic regimes. We characterised democracies by the presence of competitive political participation and regular free and fair elections, among other qualities.

    This is because democratic nations are particularly prone to ramping up resource extraction during price booms. Political pressures drive this tendency, as governments seek to fund popular initiatives or bolster public services before elections. For example, in the US during the 2008 oil price spike, president George W. Bush advocated for increased domestic oil drilling and natural gas extraction with an aim to reduce energy prices and create jobs.

    Autocratic regimes might appear less urgent to exploit commodity windfalls. There are, after all, fewer electoral or public accountability considerations. However, one-party state China’s position as the world’s largest polluter is primarily due to its manufacturing base, not raw material extraction.

    The environmental consequences of commodity booms are a global issue that requires cooperation to solve.

    Developing regions like sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean will struggle to reduce emissions from extractive activities, as much economic growth here depends on it. The US$300 billion (£235 billion) annual climate funding pledge for developing countries, agreed at the most recent UN climate summit in Azerbaijan, is not enough to finance the creation of new industries.

    Advanced economies, which bear historical responsibility for the majority of global emissions, must take the lead in addressing this imbalance. This involves both reducing their emissions and providing substantial financial and technical support to resource-dependent nations. A failure to do so would perpetuate global inequalities, as developing nations are asked to sacrifice economic growth for environmental goals while industrialised countries continue to expand their economies.

    The challenge, then, is not just in managing the financial rewards of commodity booms, but in ensuring they do not come at an unsustainable environmental cost.

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

    – ref. How windfalls from commodity price booms come back to bite exporters – https://theconversation.com/how-windfalls-from-commodity-price-booms-come-back-to-bite-exporters-244878

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Donald Trump’s policies are more than dumb — they’re stupid, according to stupidity researchers

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jerry Paul Sheppard, Associate Professor of Business Administration, Simon Fraser University

    Before he stepped down as Canadian prime minister, Justin Trudeau called Donald Trump’s tariff policies “very dumb.” This might be an accurate description of many Trump administration policies — but the more objectively correct word is “stupid.”

    In fact, Québec’s largest newspaper, Le Journal de Montréal, published a front-page photo of Trump in early February with the word “stupid” in 350-point type. Some may call this an opinion, but the science of stupidity tells us that it’s more of a definition.

    Recent research has produced a succinct label for the poorly calculated actions of decision-makers: stupidity.

    This is not simple name-calling, but a phenomenon that comprises loss and features a set of actions that are either outright recognizably dysfunctional, or appear so at odds with any sensible course of action that it seems a hidden agenda could be involved.

    Stupidity that causes everyone to lose

    According to the seminal and transactional view of human stupidity by Carlo Cipolla, the late Italian economic historian, interactions fall into four categories:

    1. Intelligent interactions that are beneficial to all – a positive-sum game like Scottish philosopher Adam Smith’s notion of wealth through specialization and trade;

    2. Helpless interactions that result in a loss in a zero-sum game;

    3. Bandit interactions that result in a gain in zero-sum game;

    4. Stupid interactions that cause all parties to suffer a loss.

    Free trade is based on an intelligent positive-sum interaction. Trump’s transactional zero-sum view is that for every winner there is a loser.

    He apparently doesn’t understand that tariffs are only successful if other countries don’t retaliate. But other countries do retaliate, and as the world is now witnessing, the resulting trade war can decimate the global economy.

    Trump’s protectionist measures aimed at boosting the U.S. economy can therefore be considered “stupid” interactions that deepen and lengthen economic depression.

    Stupidity as recognizable actions

    Modern-day researchers have also identified three recognizable sets of actions embodying stupidity:

    Confident ignorance that involves people taking risks without having the necessary skills to deal with them. It’s not just being ignorant of one’s ignorance — explained by the Dunning-Kruger effect — but being self-assured despite contrary evidence.

    Trump may know what he does not know, so he delegated many tasks to Tesla founder Elon Musk and trade tariff architect Pete Navarro, both of whom seem to possess no such awareness.

    Absent-minded failure means people knew the right thing to do but were not paying sufficient attention to avoid doing something stupid. Organizations create agendas, but if issues don’t reach a point where they seriously impact the organization’s objectives, they are ignored.

    An example is the recent U.S. strikes against Yemeni Houthis. U.S. officials ignored critical security components by sharing information about their plans over unsecure connections and with a member of the media.



    Read more:
    ‘Signalgate’ was damaging to the Trump administration. It could be deadly for Yemeni civilians

    Lack of control means that autocratic decision-makers compromise their organizations by failing to accept objections from those charged with implementing the leader’s preconceived plans.

    Such autocratic decision-makers may select biased information to support their proposals. Those working under these leaders either buy into efforts to selectively use information, limit alternatives and execute these preconceived plans or they leave the organization (either voluntarily or not).

    In the U.S., witness the firing of Justice Department pardon attorney Elizabeth Oyer. She failed to support restoring gun rights to actor Mel Gibson, who had been convicted of domestic violence in 2011. Gibson’s pardon was reportedly based on his personal relationship with the president.

    Types of stupidity

    Organizational researchers have used the term functional stupidity to describe those who refuse to use their intellectual capacities when making decisions and then avoid justification for their actions. This allows group members to quickly execute routine functions without much thought.

    Dysfunctional stupidity is a lack of organizationally supported reflection, reasoning and justification. Organizations fail to use intellectual resources to process knowledge or question norms or claims of knowledge when confronted with new or non-routine decisions. By blocking communications, muffling criticism and squelching doubts, organizations ensure adherence to superiors’ edicts.

    One Trump administration example is the unquestioning permission given to allow the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Musk, to access to a wide array of government data.

    It can take the combined efforts of organizational officials on multiple levels to maintain stupidity.

    Individually, stupidity is reinforced by ignoring crucial information because of a need for a rapid response.

    Consequently, quick decisions and shortcuts made by individuals result in negative outcomes. An example would be the Trump administration’s apparent need to appear to find cost savings quickly to allow for tax cuts, overriding a more logical approach to find ways to achieve those savings without gutting legally mandated services.

    Organizationally, stupidity is reinforced because organizations limit acceptable alternative behaviours when they cannot process all available information. Data is restricted, controls are tightened and organization officials fall back to using previously well-learned responses in their comfort zones. Inexperienced decision-makers fall back on uninformed assumptions, or no assumptions at all.

    Witness Trump’s “reciprocal” trade tariffs currently decimating financial markets worldwide. No tariffs were calculated using current tariff rates, while others were based on American trade deficits with other countries. Other tariffs seem to be based on no rationale at all.



    Read more:
    No, that’s not what a trade deficit means – and that’s not how you calculate other nations’ tariffs

    Stupidity as a hidden agenda?

    Some actions that appear stupid may simply hide a hidden agenda. When the Trump administration erroneously detains and deports anyone under the Alien Enemies Act, is it an accident or a way to instil fear in everyone that authorities can detain, mistreat and deport them without due process at any point?

    Many of the actions being taken by the Trump administration appear stupid.
    Tariffs, for example, represent a loss — a transactionally negative sum game.

    Trump’s decisions exhibit confident ignorance, absent-minded failure and lack of control. They also show dysfunctional stupidity as Trump officials seemingly refuse to use their full intellectual resources. Stupidity is also being reinforced through unfounded assumptions. Is this all hiding a secret agenda?

    “You can’t fix stupid,” so the saying goes. But having capable administrators in place while other branches of government exercise their constitutionally mandated oversight role might dampen some of the Trump administration’s stupidity.

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

    – ref. Donald Trump’s policies are more than dumb — they’re stupid, according to stupidity researchers – https://theconversation.com/donald-trumps-policies-are-more-than-dumb-theyre-stupid-according-to-stupidity-researchers-253009

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Balko Technologies Enters into Agreement with Draganfly for Integration of Advanced Modular LiDAR Drone Solutions; Multiple Orders Placed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tampa, FL, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, is pleased to have been selected as the primary UAS provider by Balko Technologies, an industry-leading company specializing in the design and manufacture of high-performance LiDAR payloads and post-processing software.

    This announcement follows the integration and testing of Balko LiDAR products on the Draganfly Commander 3XL and Apex UAS, providing Balko customers with a suite of modular LiDAR and Drone platforms supporting a wide variety of performance requirements, budgets, and operating scenarios.

    Under this agreement, Balko becomes an official distributor of Draganfly’s products throughout North America, expanding access to cutting-edge drone technology for industrial, energy, and environmental monitoring applications. Since signing the agreement, multiple customers have issued purchase orders for the Draganfly Commander 3XL to be paired with Balko’s innovative modular Connectiv LiDAR sensor with one delivery completed in Q1.

    “Draganfly’s mission has always been to deliver world-class UAV solutions tailored to critical applications,” said Cameron Chell, President and CEO of Draganfly. “Partnering with Balko enhances our ability to provide customers with advanced aerial mapping and data collection tools, leveraging Balko’s robust LiDAR payloads to further our reach across North America.”

    “We’re excited to be working with Draganfly, a company that shares our commitment to innovation and reliability,” said Maude Pelletier, President of Balko Technologies. “Our LiDAR systems are built for performance and precision, and when paired with Draganfly’s drone platforms, we can unlock even greater capabilities for our shared clients.”

    About Balko Technologies

    Founded in 2021 and based in Quebec, Canada, Balko Technologies specializes in developing and manufacturing modular LiDAR systems for drones. Their flagship product, the Connectiv sensor, is designed to be versatile and fully configurable—allowing users to interchange lasers, inertial navigation systems (INS), and cameras to adapt to specific project requirements across industries. Backed by a team of seasoned experts with decades of combined experience in geospatial technologies, product and software engineering, Balko combines the agility of a startup with deep industry knowledge. Balko’s mission is to democratize geospatial data collection by offering flexible, cutting-edge tools that empower professionals across a wide range of applications. For more information on Balko, visit www.balkotechnologies.com

    About Draganfly

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8A) is a pioneer in drone solutions, AI-driven software, and robotics. With over 25 years of innovation, Draganfly has been at the forefront of drone technology, providing solutions for public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying. The Company is committed to delivering efficient, reliable, and industry-leading technology that helps organizations save time, money, and lives.

    For more information, visit www.draganfly.com.

    For investor details, visit:
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    FRANKFURT

    Media Contact
    media@draganfly.com

    Company Contact
    info@draganfly.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains certain “forward looking statements” and certain “forward-looking ‎‎‎‎information” as ‎‎‎‎defined under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements ‎‎‎‎and information can ‎‎‎‎generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ‎‎‎‎‎“may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, ‎‎‎‎‎“estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “plans” or similar ‎‎‎‎terminology. Forward-looking statements ‎‎‎‎and information are based on forecasts of future ‎‎‎‎results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and ‎‎‎‎assumptions that, while believed by ‎‎‎‎management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant ‎‎‎‎business, economic and ‎‎‎‎competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements ‎‎‎‎include, but are not ‎‎‎‎limited to, statements with respect to the fact that partnering with Balko enhances Draganfly’s ability to provide customers with advanced aerial mapping and data collection tools, leveraging Balko’s robust LiDAR payloads to further our reach across North America. Forward-‎‎‎‎looking statements and information are subject to various ‎known ‎‎and unknown risks and ‎‎‎‎‎uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to ‎control or ‎‎predict, that ‎‎‎‎may cause ‎the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be ‎materially ‎‎different ‎‎‎‎from those ‎expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions ‎about ‎‎such ‎‎‎‎risks, uncertainties ‎and other factors set out here in, including but not limited to: the potential ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎impact of epidemics, ‎pandemics or other public health crises, including the ‎COVID-19 pandemic, on the Company’s business, operations and financial ‎‎‎‎condition; the ‎‎‎successful integration of ‎technology; the inherent risks involved in the general ‎‎‎‎securities markets; ‎‎‎uncertainties relating to the ‎availability and costs of financing needed in the ‎‎‎‎future; the inherent ‎‎‎uncertainty of cost estimates; the ‎potential for unexpected costs and ‎‎‎‎expenses, currency ‎‎‎fluctuations; regulatory restrictions; and liability, ‎competition, loss of key ‎‎‎‎employees and other related risks ‎‎‎and uncertainties disclosed under the ‎heading “Risk Factors“ ‎‎‎‎in the Company’s most recent filings filed ‎‎‎with securities regulators in Canada on ‎the SEDAR ‎‎‎‎website at www.sedar.com and with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on EDGAR through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes ‎‎‎no obligation to update forward-‎looking ‎‎‎‎information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-‎‎‎looking information represents ‎‎‎‎‎managements’ best judgment based on information currently available. ‎‎‎No forward-looking ‎‎‎‎statement ‎can be guaranteed and actual future results may vary materially. ‎‎‎Accordingly, readers ‎‎‎‎are advised not to ‎place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or ‎‎‎information.‎

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