NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada invests over $4.5 million to enhance tourism across Northern Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced Government of Canada investments totalling $4,571,673 for 22 tourism projects across Northern Ontario. The funding is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP) and the Tourism Growth Program (TGP).

    Tourism Initiatives Funded by FedNor in Northwestern Ontario

    Lake of the Woods Brewing Company
    $976,852

    A non-repayable FedNor investment of $976,852 will support two tourism initiatives with the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company (LOWBrew). Funded through the TGP $750,328 will be used by LOWBrew to renovate and equip a new manufacturing facility in Kenora. Once complete, the facility will allow LOWBrew to reintegrate production, increase capacity, reduce shipping and production costs, while sourcing more materials from producers nearer to Kenora. The remaining $226,524 was used to establish the Brewer’s Village. Located outside LOWBrew’s new manufacturing facility, the Brewer’s Village is the ultimate tourism attraction for beer enthusiasts, social butterflies, and outdoor aficionados living, working or visiting the Thunder Bay region.

    Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc.
    $250,000

    A non-repayable FedNor contribution of $250,000 through TGP is being used by Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc. to complete critical infrastructure upgrades and improvements to the local marina. Identified as a strategic priority in the organization’s Marine Asset Management Plan, this project will ensure the marina is safe and functional for the next three to four years, or until a new dock can be constructed. Specifically, the funding will support structural and safety upgrades to the docks and removal of derelict sections including two fuel tanks, pumps, lines and valves. The project will also support environmental protection activities and a new foundation for the boat launch.

    Coopérative Centre Francophone De Thunder Bay Inc. 
    $214,624

    The Coopérative Centre Francophone De Thunder Bay (CCFTB) is receiving a non-repayable FedNor investment of $214,624 through the NODP to support the continuation and expansion of the local francophone festival, Festival BONJOUR. This project will allow CCFTB to hire a consultant to assess previous iterations of the festival as well as a part-time project coordinator to support festival activities, contribute to event costs, purchase and store festival equipment, and develop the capacity of dedicated staff and organization members. This investment will help support greater economic development by attracting more tourists while also creating impacts for local businesses and participating community organizations.

    City of Kenora
    $125,000

    The City of Kenora is receiving a FedNor investment of $125,000 to develop detailed design and specifications for the development of a new harbourfront pavilion on the shores of Lake of the Woods. The goal of the project is to replace the Thistle Pavilion that nearing its life expectancy. Identified as a strategic priority in the community’s five-year tourism and economic development strategy, the new pavilion will pave the way for more tourism and special events at the waterfront in downtown Kenora.

    Atikokan Economic Development Corporation                                                                      $112,500

    To enhance tourism and economic activity in Atikokan, FedNor is investing $112,500 to help the Atikokan Economic Development Corporation can purchase a three-season 50 x 140-foot festival and events tent. The funding will also support the purchase of tables and sound equipment to ensure maximum use and flexibility. The new structure will help attract more tourists and large-scale events to the community and create new opportunities in the shoulder seasons.

    Rainy River Future Development Corporation
    $99,000

    To help strengthen the region’s tourism sector a non-repayable FedNor investment of $99,000 will help the Rainy River Future Development Corporation implement the Fort Frances Tourism Development Marketing Plan. This priority project will increase marketing and support tourism development and growth. The goal of the project is to enhance the community’s image as an appealing tourism destination so they can attract more visitors and encourage extended overnight stays that lead to increased tourism spending. In addition, this priority project will help the town of Fort Frances and the region in their efforts to capitalize on the half-million annual crossings at the international border, where their downtown is strategically situated.

    Township of Nipigon
    $16,991

    A non-repayable FedNor investment of $16,991 will allow the Township of Nipigon to design, construct, and install two interactive tourism information kiosks. To maximize their tourism potential, the kiosks will be located in the lobby of the Nipigon Community Centre and at the Bridgeport Lookout Tower. The new kiosks aim to modernize the visitor experience and provide information on local history, culture, attractions and businesses, such as business directories, and information related to fairs, markets, festivals, and recreational activities, including driving directions. Funded through the NODP, the kiosks will be capable of personalizing recommendations based on the interests, preferences, and location submitted by users.

    Tourism Initiatives Funded by FedNor in Northeastern Ontario

    Timmins Festivals and Events Committee
    $391,820

    To help maximize the tourism and economic potential of the region, FedNor is providing $391,820 to the Timmins Festivals and Events Committee so they can purchase a professional concert stage and mobile event trailers. Specifically, the funding will be used to purchase a 40-by-40-foot mobile stage and two 12-by-40-foot portable office trailers. Not only will the new equipment support and amplify high-profile events such as Rock on the River (ROTR), it will also provide the organization with a new revenue stream when the new equipment is rented for use by partners and surrounding communities for regional festivals and events.   

    Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre
    $250,000

    The Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is receiving a non-repayable FedNor investment of $250,000 to create the Love Muskoka Sustain Muskoka tourism exhibit. Provided through the TGP, this inclusive tourist attraction will help educate visitors of all ages on how to live more sustainably, combat climate change and protect the environment. With interactive features and compelling educational content, guests will learn positive changes they can make at home and in their community to support a cleaner and greener future. Over the next five years, this project is expected to help create four full-time jobs and maintain 10 more.

    Four Corners Contracting Inc.
    $212,500

    Four Corners Contracting is receiving a fully repayable FedNor investment through the TGP of $212,500 to develop a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to support new tourism offerings in Northern Ontario. Specifically, the funding is being used to construct a 2,000 square-foot facility with indoor learning spaces such as a classroom, construction shop, culinary spaces and artisan studios to support fibre arts, blacksmith activity as well as clay and woodworking areas. Once complete, the new facility will promote economic, environmental and cultural sustainability, as well as year-round in-door and outdoor tourism experiences designed to attract tourists and guests year-round.

    Magnetawan River Resort (Cornerstone Properties Britt)
    $202,500

    A repayable FedNor investment of $202,500 will help transform the Magnetawan River Resort into an all-season facility. The project includes upgrading existing cottages, installing new heating systems and completing electrical, water, septic and road enhancements. Provided through FedNor’s TGP, the funding will also be used to purchase snow maintenance equipment and create up to 10 new overnight RV sites. This project is expected to create two full-time jobs and five additional employment opportunities during the construction phase.

    Village of South River
    $189,000

    The Village of South River is receiving a non-repayable TGP funding of $189,000 to refurbish the South River Train Station. This FedNor investment will help the community to maximize its tourism potential by capitalizing on opportunities created by the return of Ontario Northland passenger rail services to South River. Specifically, the funding will be used to transform this historic facility into a fully accessible building with new washroom and upgraded amenities such as wi-fi and interpretative displays, while retaining the postcard charm of the original 1885 train station.

    Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corporation
    $180,000

    The Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corporation is receiving a non-repayable NODP contribution of $180,000 to undertake a 280-kilometre expansion of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (GLWT). Specifically, the funding will support design, implementation, marketing, and new signage for the trail expansion. This strategic initiative will deliver tourism benefits to 11 communities in the Muskoka and Parry Sound districts by leveraging the popularity of the 3200-kilometre GLWT cycling trail, which links over 100 points of interest and amenities, and connects 170 partner communities from Quebec to Sault Ste. Marie. Once complete, the expanded trail network will not only attract more outdoor enthusiasts to the region, but it will also help attract major cycling events to the area such as the 2027 Great Waterfront Trail Adventure.

    The Chalets on Lake Muskoka
    $152,000

    The Chalets on Lake Muskoka is receiving a repayable TGP investment of $152,000 to complete infrastructure upgrades and purchase new equipment to increase occupancy and enhance the guest experience. Specifically, the funding is being used to build self-contained cabins with kitchenettes and fireplaces, upgrade the septic system, install a new sauna and establish vehicle charging stations. Once complete, this project will help enhance the resort’s appeal as a year-round destination for families, couples, individuals or large groups.

    Muskoka Chautauqua
    $100,000

    To strengthen the economy and attract more visitors during the off-season, Muskoka Chautauqua is receiving $100,000 to create, improve and deliver 40 tourism events and experiences. Over a 15-month period, the organization will coordinate gallery exhibitions and workshops, book signings, walking tours, concerts, film screenings, cultural, environmental and educational events and more. Funded through FedNor’s TGP, this project is expected to attract close to 3,000 visitors and generate more than $1 million in economic benefits for the region.

    Town of Parry Sound
    $60,000

    A FedNor investment of $60,000 is helping the Town of Parry Sound complete a comprehensive Waterfront Development Plan. Once complete, the plan will provide an economic roadmap to guide development and growth in the community and along the shores of the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, known as the 30,000 Islands. Funded through the NODP, this priority project supports the Government of Canada’s Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario by helping to build stronger communities by investing in economic development capacity in the region.

    Township of South Algonquin
    $55,000

    A FedNor investment $55,000 helped the Township of South Algonquin complete a master plan to help the community identify and advance economic development and tourism priorities. The plan will help guide future development and tourism growth that aligns with township’s recently completed Strategic Plan.

    ‎ Tourism Initiatives Funded by FedNor in Northcentral Ontario

    Culinary Tourism Alliance
    $366,300

    The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA) is receiving $366,300 to support a three-year culinary and agri-tourism partnership program with Destination Northern Ontario. The goal of the project is to expand programs offered by CTA that are helping to increase the number of tourism operators benefiting from culinary tourism opportunities. Key activities for the project include providing learning and capacity-building activities for the tourism sector, sharing best practices and promoting Northern Ontario’s culinary and agritourism offerings by creating high-quality content to distribute through traditional and social media platforms.

    Indigenous Tourism Association of Ontario
    $250,011

    The Indigenous Tourism Association of Ontario is receiving FedNor funding of $250,011 to develop and implement a tourism corridor strategy to accelerate Indigenous tourism in Northern Ontario. Designed to attract visitors from south of Muskoka to the Manitoulin and Sault Ste. Marie corridor, the strategy will promote Indigenous tourism focused businesses that are visitor-ready. The strategy will include three key studies: a corridor strategy, implementation and sustainability report, and a business case for development/future investment in tourism along the corridor. At least 15 Indigenous-owned businesses in Northern Ontario will be directly supported to showcase cultural heritage and develop market-ready products as part of the corridor development.

    Manitoulin Island Cycling Advocates
    $112,500

    To help boost tourism in the region, the Manitoulin Island Cycling Advocates is receiving a non-repayable FedNor investment of $112,500 to create a best-in-class mountain bike park. The new park will be located at the Nordic Ski Club’s 80-acre facility, thus transforming the area into a four-season destination. The park will be engineered and built to International Mountain Bike Association standards and will complement the existing cycling tourism products which include e-bikes and chargers and over 850 kilometers of off-road and paved routes along Manitoulin’s beautiful roadways.

    Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands
    $42,575

    FedNor is investing $42,575 through its NODP to help Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands maximize the tourism and economic potential of its Home, Cottage & Culinary Show (HCCS). Identified as a local priority, the funding will be used to purchase an accessible portable stage, sound system and generator to enhance the 2025 HCCS experience and reduce costs for future municipal and community-led events. These assets will also improve the visitor experience, encourage return visits and increase economic activity through visitor spending in the region.

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China pushes forward with people-oriented high-quality urban development

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

    BEIJING, July 17 — The recent tone-setting meeting on urban development indicated that China’s urbanization is shifting from large-scale quantity expansion to one focused on improving the quality and efficiency of existing urban areas.

    “This significant judgment not only reveals new characteristics of urban development in our country but also provides direction for future urban work,” said Wang Kai, president of the China Academy of Urban Planning & Design.

    The urbanization rate of the permanent resident population in China has increased from 53.1 percent in 2012 to 67 percent in 2024. Based on international experience and urban development patterns, an urbanization rate between 30 percent and 70 percent is generally considered a period of rapid urbanization, according to Wang, adding that China has entered the late phase of relatively rapid urban development, and the intrinsic logic of urban development is undergoing profound changes.

    “Shifting from scale expansion to quality enhancement implies that urban development must now rely less on traditional factors such as land and capital and more on new factors including knowledge, data, technology and management, aiming for higher quality, greater efficiency, more equitable, sustainable and safer development,” Wang noted.

    The Central Urban Work Conference, held in Beijing on Monday and Tuesday, stated that since the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) 18th National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee has adhered to developing cities of the people, for the people, and by the people. Historic achievements have been made in urban development, it added.

    Between 2013 and 2024, China created over 150 million new urban jobs.

    China, a traditionally agricultural country, has seen its urbanization pick up after the reform and opening-up drive began in the late 1970s. More than a decade ago, the country’s urban population exceeded the rural population.

    Yang Baojun, president of the Urban Planning Society of China, said that the laws of urban development have demonstrated that the old path of large-scale incremental expansion is no longer viable. Rather than passively responding to challenges, cities should proactively adapt to high-quality development and explore new pathways.

    The meeting held earlier this week established key priorities for urban development, including optimizing the modern urban system, building vibrant cities powered by innovation, and creating comfortable and convenient living environments, as well as promoting green, low-carbon, and beautiful urban spaces.

    The priorities also include enhancing urban safety and resilience, fostering cities that uphold moral integrity and social civility, and advancing the development of convenient, efficient and smart cities, the meeting said.

    Cui Kai, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, pointed out that these priorities closely align with the goal of building modern cities of the people, which encompasses both hardware improvements and software development, and addresses the immediate issues while also planning for long-term growth, reflecting a profound understanding of the urban development laws.

    “Looking ahead, China will jointly promote urban physical examination and urban renewal, formulate special plans for urban renewal scientifically, and focus on key tasks such as complete community construction, renovation of old urban residential communities, and historical and cultural heritage preservation,” said Chen Shaopeng, an official from the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development.

    “Furthermore, it is essential to collaboratively refine supportive policies related to land, taxation and finance to accelerate the establishment of a sustainable urban renewal model,” Chen added.

    There are more than 690 cities scattered across China, with a population of 940 million residing in urban areas.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s economic resilience drives global growth

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

    BEIJING, July 17 — In the face of a complex international landscape and mounting challenges, China achieved steady economic growth in the first half of 2025, boosting confidence in global growth potential.

    According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Tuesday, China’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew 5.3 percent year on year in the first half of 2025 and 5.2 percent year on year in the second quarter.

    Analysts noted that by steadfastly advancing high-quality development and steadily expanding high-level opening-up, the Chinese economy has demonstrated strong resilience, providing a reliable driving force for global economic growth.

    STRONG RESILIENCE

    Since the beginning of 2025, the international economic and trade order has experienced severe shocks and increasing uncertainties. In the face of mounting pressure, China’s economy has maintained a steady and positive momentum, presenting a high-quality performance.

    “Resilience” has become a key word used by overseas media when reporting on the Chinese economy, with many noting that China’s economic data in the first half of the year exceeded market expectations and that the country stays on course to meet its annual growth target of around 5 percent.

    China’s GDP growth, despite the impact of U.S. tariff policy, signals strong resilience, highlighting China’s adaptive policies and manufacturing depth, said Philippe Monnier, former executive director of the Greater Geneva Berne area (GGBa), the investment promotion agency for Western Switzerland.

    The encouraging growth of the Chinese economy is mainly attributed to the strong performance in trade, industrial production and retail sales, said Lynn Song, chief economist for Greater China at ING, a Dutch bank. He added that the solid results in the first half should keep China on track to achieve its full-year growth target.

    Thanks to efforts to strengthen economic and trade ties globally, China’s foreign trade sector delivered a strong performance, significantly contributing to overall economic growth. In the first half of the year, China’s total goods trade hit 21.79 trillion yuan (3.04 trillion U.S. dollars), reaching a record high for the same period.

    During this time, China’s imports and exports with more than 190 countries and regions registered growth, with 61 trading partners posting trade volumes exceeding 50 billion yuan (6.96 billion dollars).

    In addition to increased trade with traditional markets such as the European Union, Japan and Britain, emerging markets provided additional momentum. Notably, China’s trade with Africa and Central Asia rose by 14.4 percent and 13.8 percent year on year, respectively.

    EFFECTIVE POLICY

    Facing an increasingly complex and challenging external environment, China has effectively implemented more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies, further strengthened the domestic economic circulation, continued to advance high-level opening-up and steadily pushed forward economic transformation and high-quality development.

    In the first half of 2025, domestic demand contributed 68.8 percent to GDP growth, serving as the main engine of economic expansion, according to the NBS.

    China’s emphasis on household subsidies, fiscal support and credit access for small businesses has helped stabilize internal demand while shielding the economy from external shocks, making it more resilient to trade tensions and global slowdowns, Rwandan economic analyst Teddy Kaberuka told Xinhua.

    Japan’s Jiji Press noted that the Chinese government’s implementation of a moderately accommodative monetary policy has yielded tangible results in supporting the real economy, and measures introduced to boost consumption also played a positive role in driving economic growth.

    During the first half of 2025, China saw rapid growth in high-tech sectors such as scientific innovation and green development. Value-added industrial output in high-tech manufacturing rose by 9.5 percent, 3.1 percentage points higher than that of overall industrial output during the same period.

    With strategic support for sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electric vehicles and clean energy, China is transitioning toward a more sustainable, consumption-driven growth model that benefits global supply chains and investment flows, said Monnier.

    Karim Adel, head of the Cairo-based Al Adl Center for Economic and Strategic Studies, noted that in the challenging year of 2025, China has introduced a series of proactive policies not only to advance its own growth objectives but also to provide sustained momentum for the global economy.

    BENEFIT THE WORLD

    In the face of the challenging international landscape, the Chinese economy has demonstrated strong resilience and vast development potential. Driven by innovation, it is advancing high-quality development, contributing to global economic growth and sharing development opportunities with the world.

    Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, minister of economic affairs of the German state of Baden-Wurttemberg, who led a delegation to visit China recently, told Xinhua that she was deeply impressed by China’s achievement in science and technology, adding that China is an exciting market in intelligent transportation, robot industry and other emerging areas.

    In recent years, Germany and China have been deepening cooperation in cutting-edge areas, said Bernd Einmeier, president of the German-Chinese Association for Economy, Education, and Culture.

    German enterprises remain enthusiastic about investing in China, while a growing number of Chinese companies view Germany as a strategic gateway for expanding into the European market, said Einmeier, noting that this two-way interaction serves as a stabilizing force for global industrial and supply chains.

    Munetsi Madakufamba, executive director of the Southern African Research and Documentation Center, praised China’s zero-tariff measures covering all taxable products for 53 African countries, saying it represents a significant development that has the potential to enhance China-Africa trade relations.

    The positive performance of the Chinese economy can help Africa unlock its vast economic potential and contribute to its development aspirations, he added.

    In an era marked by uncertainty, China’s stability and development represent confidence and opportunity, said Ng Chin Long, chairman of the Malaysia Friends of Silk Road Club.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xinjiang airport records soaring cross-border trips amid opening-up push

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

    URUMQI, July 17 — A total of 500,000 trips to or from China have been recorded in 2025 at the Urumqi Tianshan International Airport in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region — the highest figure for the January-July period in a decade.

    By Monday, foreign nationals had made more than 146,000 trips to China via the airport this year, which was a year-on-year increase of 30 percent, according to statistics from the airport’s immigration authorities. Of those trips, 39,000 were visa-free entries.

    Approximately 40 percent of these foreign visitors were traveling for tourism, the immigration authorities said, noting that business and visits to relatives or friends were the second and third most common reasons for border entry among foreigners.

    The airport’s passenger and cargo capacities received a major boost when a new terminal began operations three months ago. The new terminal is a key part of the airport’s expansion project, which began in 2019.

    With the expansion, the airport now has three runways — a significant increase from its previous one — and can accommodate up to 48 million passengers and 550,000 tonnes of cargo annually. It is now capable of supporting nearly 367,000 aircraft takeoffs and landings each year.

    “As an air transport hub for China’s westward opening-up, the Urumqi Tianshan International Airport is making progress in various aspects, boosting the high-standard opening-up of the country’s northwest region,” said He Mingxing, a scholar at Xinjiang University.

    The new terminal is a representative of the rapid development of civil aviation infrastructure in Xinjiang.

    And with the Barkol Dahe Airport officially beginning operations on Tuesday, Xinjiang’s total number of civil airports has risen to 28 — the highest among all provincial-level regions in China.

    As the core area of the Silk Road Economic Belt, Xinjiang has been working hard to accelerate its airport construction. The number of airports in the region — both operational and under construction — is expected to reach 33 by the end of 2025.

    Many international travelers come to China to buy goods like daily necessities and electronic devices, and airports in Xinjiang have been enhancing their consumption experience and tax-refund-upon-departure services for these visitors.

    At the Urumqi Tianshan International Airport, a 24-hour outlet and self-service counter are in place to facilitate these services.

    “We processed a total of 168 tax-refund-upon-departure transactions by July 12, which was an increase of more than 500 percent from the same period last year,” said Liu Jiawei, head of the outlet, which is operated by a local bank.

    Xinjiang is not only an important window for China’s westward opening-up; it also has the potential to become a consumption hub connecting Central Asian countries with the Chinese market, and to play a more strategic role in enhancing an outward-looking economy, He said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Upcoming US Law Webinars – August 2025

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    We hope you will join us in August for the next offering of our Orientation to Legal Research webinars, focusing on tracing federal regulations, followed by the next entry into the Lunch and Learn webinar series that is hosted intermittently by Law Library staff. The August webinars will finish with another entry into the Introduction to Congress.gov series.

    Our Lunch and Learn Webinar Series takes a deep dive into the Law Library’s collections and other legal research subjects, exploring topics such as rare materials in our collection and the United States Serial Set, among many others. This month’s Lunch and Learn webinar will focus on federal appropriations research, specifically examining the legislative history and appropriations in the annual federal budget. It will review the general appropriations procedure in Congress. It will also focus on resources for conducting legislative history research into appropriations, including annual CRS appropriation status tables, omnibus legislation, and members’ earmarks.

    We hope you will join us for these informative and interesting webinars!

    Orientation to Legal Research: Tracing Federal Regulations

    Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT

    Content: This webinar is designed to give a basic introduction to legal sources and research techniques. This entry in the series provides an overview of U.S. federal regulations, including information about the notice and comment rulemaking process, the publication and citation of regulations, and the tracing of regulations from the Code of Federal Regulations to the proposed rule in the Federal Register to the regulation’s docket.

    Instructor: Barbara Bavis. Barbara is the bibliographic and research instruction librarian at the Law Library. She holds a B.A. in history from Duke University, a J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law, and a Master of Science in library and information science specializing in law librarianship from Catholic University.

    Register here. 

    Flyer announcing the Lunch and Learn webinar titled, Federal Appropriations Research. Created by Taylor Gulatsi.

    A Lunch and Learn Webinar: Federal Appropriations Research

    Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT

    Content: This webinar will focus on researching the legislative history and appropriations in the annual federal budget appropriations. It will review the general appropriations procedure in Congress. It will also focus on resources for conducting legislative history research into appropriations, including annual CRS appropriation status tables, omnibus legislation, and members’ earmarks.

    Instructor: Jason Zarin. Jason is a legal reference specialist at the Law Library. Jason has a B.A. in economics from Tufts University, an M.A. in economics from UCLA, a J.D. from the University of Southern California, an LL.M. in taxation from Georgetown University, and a Master of Science in information systems from the University of Texas at Austin.

    Register here.

    An Introduction to Congress.gov

    Date: Thursday, August 21, 2025, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT

    Content: This orientation is designed to give a basic overview of Congress.gov. While the focus of the session will be searching legislation and the congressional member information attached to the legislation, the new features of Congress.gov will be highlighted.

    Instructors: Barbara Bavis and Robert Brammer. Barbara is the bibliographic and research instruction librarian at the Law Library. She holds a B.A. in history from Duke University, a J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law, and a Master of Science in library and information science specializing in law librarianship from Catholic University. Robert is the chief of the Law Library’s Office of External Relations. He holds a B.A. in political science from the University of Kentucky, a J.D. from Wayne State University, and a Master of Library Science from Florida State University.

    Register here.

    To learn about other upcoming classes on domestic and foreign law topics, visit the Legal Research Institute. Please request ADA accommodations at least five business days in advance by contacting (202) 707-6362 or [email protected].

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met reiterates warning on support for proscribed organisations ahead of Saturday protests

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    There will be an increased police presence in Westminster on Saturday when a number of protests are due to take place.

    A march organised by the Palestine Coalition will go from Victoria Embankment to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and the Strand. Speeches will take place in Whitehall following the march.

    A static protest organised by Stop the Hate, in opposition to the Palestine Coalition march, will take place at the junction of the Strand and Waterloo Bridge.

    Discussions are ongoing with the organisers of both protests and details of any conditions in place will be published on Friday.

    We are also expecting further protest activity in support of Palestine Action which is a group now proscribed under the Terrorism Act. Similar protests have taken place in Parliament Square for the past two weekends, with 70 arrests made.

    The location of any such protest has not yet been confirmed.

    Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who is charge of the Met’s policing operation this weekend, said: “Our policing plans for the sort of protest activity we expect on Saturday are tried and tested, with officers working hard to achieve the balance of allowing people to exercise their right to peaceful protest while avoiding serious disruption to the community and ensuring incidents and offences can be swiftly dealt with.

    “This Saturday’s Palestine Coalition protest is the first large scale eventof its kind since the proscription of Palestine Action and I want to make sure the implications of that change in the law are fully understood.

    “Nobody will be committing an offence by simply supporting the Palestinian cause, taking part in the march or carrying flags, banners or other signs providing they don’t stray into hate speech or other offences.

    “However, those who see this as an opportunity to test the limits of the law by expressing support for Palestine Action, whether at a standalone protest or as part of the Palestine Coalition protest, will likely be committing an offence and will very likely be arrested.

    “I would urge those people to consider the seriousness of being arrested under the Terrorism Act and the very real long term implications – from travel, to employment, to finances – that such an arrest is likely to have for their future.

    “This is also the first large scale protest on this issue since Glastonbury Festival where offensive chanting led by an artist on one of the stages prompted a police investigation. Investigations are also underway, led by Met officers, following similar uses of the same chant in London.

    “Those investigations are ongoing and it would not be appropriate to prejudge the outcomes, but I can say a bit more about our approach to similar chanting at this weekend’s protest.

    “We have said before that whether chants cross the line from free speech to a potential criminal offence depends on the specific circumstances.

    “For example, there will be words that when chanted in the middle of the Palestine Coalition march, and not directed at individuals who might be caused harassment, alarm or distress as a result, might not lead an officer to reasonably suspect an offence has been committed.

    “But directing the same words at a group of people for whom the words would very likely cause harassment, alarm or distress, could well give rise to grounds for arrest.

    “At previous protests, the area between the main march and any counter protest has seen the most heated exchanges. Officers will be particularly alert to conduct, including chanting, in this area and will be working with stewards to ensure crowds keep moving past this point.

    “Where they become aware of behaviour that crosses the line from protest into criminality they will intervene and take appropriate action.

    “All participants are responsible for their own behaviour. Avoiding the use of threatening, abusive and insulting language, or language that is supportive of proscribed organisations, is the surest way to stay on the right side of this line.”

    Further details of these protests, including any conditions in place, will be published at news.met.police.uk and on the Met’s X account.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: The Riverside Company Closes Value Fund II at $750 Million Hard Cap

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEVELAND, NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Riverside Company, a global investment firm focused on lower middle market investments, announced the successful final close of its Riverside Value Fund II (RVF II) at its hard cap of $750 million. RVF II was significantly oversubscribed and closed at more than double the size of its predecessor fund RVF I, which held a final close in June 2023 at $350 million. RVF II closed the fund five months after its initial launch in February 2025.

    The Riverside Value Fund (RVF) seeks to invest in North American businesses that compete in durable, growing end markets and that have the potential for significant growth and operational transformation. RVF provides flexible capital solutions to support businesses in transition or at an inflection point. The fund targets investments in a wide range of industries, and its current portfolio includes companies in the business services, specialty manufacturing, value-added distribution and financial services sectors, among others. The RVF team works closely with its management partners to implement aggressive top- and bottom-line growth plans for each of its portfolio companies.

    “We are humbled by the trust placed in us by this highly experienced and thoughtful group of existing and new investors in RVF II, and we are grateful for the strong performance delivered by our partner companies which enabled us to achieve this milestone,” said Riverside Managing Partner Sean Ozbolt. “We’re fortunate to partner with investors who share our value-driven philosophy and our focus on operational excellence as a catalyst for sustainable growth.”

    Joining Ozbolt in leading the RVF investment team are Managing Partner Ron Sansom and Partners Andrew Fohrer and Craig Kahler. In addition to its dedicated investment and operating team based in Los Angeles, RVF leverages the depth and breadth of Riverside’s global platform, including its highly experienced, 23-person origination team and its extensive group of more than 50 operating professionals.

    “The lower middle market offers a wide range of companies navigating complex or transitional situations, including carve-outs, family-owned business transitions, challenging integrations, leadership changes or other inflection points,” said Riverside Co-CEO Stewart Kohl. “RVF’s platform is built to identify these hidden gems, unlock overlooked value and work with management partners to implement hands-on operational strategies that accelerate both revenue and quality of earnings.”

    Over the last twelve months, RVF completed transactions totaling more than $1 billion in enterprise value, including three new platform investments, five add-on acquisitions and one exit. The firm also continues to expand its partnership with Ownership Works, implementing broad-based employee equity ownership plans at several of its portfolio companies. Thus far, more than 1,100 employees of RVF partner companies have earned an equity stake in their businesses.

    “The RVF team now has a proven track record of identifying value in complex situations or companies in transition which led to successfully raising this second fund,” said Riverside Co-CEO Béla Szigethy. “We’re thrilled so many LPs, both new and existing, in turn recognized the value of RVF. An oversubscribed fund is a testament to their faith in Riverside – and we’re honored to have those investors join us on this journey.”

    The Riverside Company
    The Riverside Company is a global investment firm focused on being one of the leading private equity and flexible capital options for business owners and portfolio company employees at the smaller end of the middle market by seeking to fuel transformative growth and create lasting value. Since its founding in 1988, Riverside has made more than 1,000 investments. The firm’s international private equity and flexible capital portfolios include more than 140 companies. For more information, visit www.riversidecompany.com.

    Holly Mueller 
    Marketing Consultant
    The Riverside Company
    216.535.2236 
    hmueller@riversidecompany.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Topnotch Crypto Opens Green Cloud Mining Chapter, From London to the World

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Houston, Texas, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Topnotch Crypto, a pioneering blockchain solutions provider headquartered in London, has officially unveiled its groundbreaking green cloud mining chapter. This bold initiative positions Topnotch Crypto at the forefront of sustainable digital asset technology, delivering a cleaner, smarter way for individuals and enterprises worldwide to mine top cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Litecoin.

    A Major Leap Toward Sustainable Crypto

    As global concern mounts over the heavy environmental toll of traditional crypto mining, Topnotch Crypto’s timely move introduces a new paradigm. By powering operations with energy sourced from cutting-edge solar and wind facilities, the company’s cloud mining solution slashes carbon emissions, demonstrating how blockchain innovation can coexist with ecological responsibility.

    Our mission has always been to make blockchain work for both people and the planet. Through this new green chapter, we’re proving that you can profit from digital assets without leaving a damaging footprint on the Earth.

    Mining Made Simple — Without Expensive Hardware

    Topnotch Crypto’s platform revolutionizes access to crypto mining by eliminating the need for costly rigs, noisy setups, and complex maintenance. Users anywhere can sign up, choose a mining plan tailored to their goals, and begin receiving daily payouts. The entire infrastructure — from hardware management to renewable power sourcing — is expertly handled by Topnotch Crypto’s dedicated teams.

    This accessible model breaks down the traditional barriers that have kept many would-be miners out of the market. Whether in London, Lagos, São Paulo, or Singapore, users can now seamlessly participate in mining and grow their digital wealth without the headaches or high upfront costs.

    AI Optimization Powers Higher Returns

    At the core of this green cloud mining operation lies advanced AI technology. Topnotch Crypto’s intelligent systems continuously monitor network loads and adjust mining activities to maximize efficiency. By distributing workloads across renewable-powered data centers in real time, the platform ensures energy is never wasted and that returns remain strong even in shifting market conditions.

    Our AI does more than just streamline operations. it guarantees smarter use of every watt. That means we’re not only protecting the environment, but also delivering more value back to our clients.

    Security, Transparency, and Global Confidence

    Trust is critical in the world of digital assets, and Topnotch Crypto places security and transparency at the center of its operations. The platform employs military-grade encryption, multi-layered authentication, and continuous network monitoring to protect user investments.

    Clients also benefit from clear, intuitive dashboards that provide a full view of mining performance, payouts, and contract status around the clock. This level of transparency builds confidence, ensuring that each user — whether an individual investor or a large enterprise — always knows exactly how their assets are working for them.

    A Global Call to Rethink Crypto Mining

    This opening of a green cloud mining chapter is more than just a business evolution for Topnotch Crypto; it’s a rallying point for the broader blockchain industry. By proving that mining can be both profitable and environmentally sound, Topnotch Crypto hopes to inspire similar practices worldwide.

    We believe this is the future of mining. As more companies follow this path, we’ll see a stronger, cleaner blockchain ecosystem that benefits everyone.

    Start mining in simple steps

    •Create an account: Visit the Topnotch Crypto official website or download the app, register with your email address, and receive a $15 newbie bonus.

    •Choose a contract: Choose a suitable option from a variety of contracts based on your needs.

    •Start mining: The contract will take effect immediately after confirmation, the system will automatically allocate computing power, and you can check the progress in real time.

    About Topnotch Crypto

    Topnotch Crypto is a London-based leader in blockchain and digital asset solutions, dedicated to making cryptocurrency mining accessible, secure, and environmentally responsible. Through a combination of innovation, rigorous security, and a commitment to sustainability, the company helps clients around the world grow their digital assets with confidence.

    Join the Green Mining Revolution Today

    Individuals and organizations eager to participate in this new era of eco-friendly mining can start with Topnotch Crypto in just minutes. With flexible packages, transparent operations, and support for users across all continents, the platform makes it simple to begin earning daily crypto rewards — all powered by clean, renewable energy.

    For more information or to start mining sustainably, visit https://topnotchcrypto.com.

    You can contact through Email address: info@topnotchcrypto.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Identity fraud: BaFin warns consumers about the website myfundrock.de

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The unknown operators claim that their offer is from FundRock Distribution DE Branch in Munich. This is the German branch of FundRock Distribution S.A., based in Luxembourg. However, this is not true. This is a case of identity fraud. FundRock Distribution DE Branch and FundRock Distribution S.A. have no connection to the website myfundrock.de or the services offered there.

    BaFin is issuing this warning on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin warns consumers about fraudulent term deposit offers.

    You can view BaFin’s current warnings about companies operating without the required authorisation and find out how to protect yourself from fraudsters on the financial market in the “Recognising financial fraud” section of our website.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: No Credit Check Loans With Guaranteed Approval & Same-Day Payday Loans — GADCapital Launches New Digital Platform for Instant Online Loans in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aventura, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  GADCapital has launched a new digital lending platform designed to connect U.S. borrowers with no credit check loans with guaranteed approval options and same-day payday loans online for urgent financial needs. More details about the service are available on GADCapital’s same-day payday loans page, where consumers can explore features built for rapid funding and expanded access even for those with lower credit scores..

    GADCapital’s platform responds to the growing demand for faster, more inclusive financial solutions by evaluating real-time income and bank activity rather than relying solely on FICO scores. The system enables instant payday loans online guaranteed approval possibilities and same-day cash deposits for loans up to $5,000, helping consumers address unexpected expenses quickly and discreetly.

    How GADCapital’s Platform Delivers No Credit Check Loans Online

    Unlike traditional bank loans that require hard credit pulls and strict scoring thresholds, GADCapital’s digital platform focuses on no credit check loans that rely on alternative data like income and bank transactions. Through the use of soft credit inquiries, GADCapital helps ensure that applying for same-day payday loans online will not harm a borrower’s credit score.

    Borrowers using GADCapital’s platform can:

    • Complete secure applications in under five minutes
    • Avoid hard credit checks that could lower FICO scores
    • Receive loan offers from multiple licensed lenders
    • Access funds as quickly as the same business day
    • Request amounts ranging from $100 to $5,000

    By modernizing the lending process, GADCapital positions itself as a leading provider of no credit check loans guaranteed approval possibilities, ensuring consumers receive timely support during financial emergencies.

    Why Borrowers Choose GADCapital for Same-Day Payday Loans Online

    Many Americans encounter situations where traditional lenders can’t offer the speed or flexibility needed for sudden expenses. GADCapital’s platform specifically addresses this gap by connecting consumers to same-day payday loans online no credit check options, giving them tools to manage costs such as medical bills, auto repairs, or unexpected utility payments.

    GADCapital’s platform stands out because it:

    • Avoids traditional credit requirements
    • Focuses on current financial health instead of past credit challenges
    • Prioritizes digital convenience over lengthy bank processes
    • Enables fast funding for urgent needs
    • Maintains partnerships only with state-licensed, reputable lenders

    This modern approach aligns with consumer demand for instant payday loans online guaranteed approval possibilities, offering a smoother alternative to traditional bank loans.

    GADCapital’s Digital Platform vs. Traditional Bank Loans

    Traditional banks often fall short for borrowers needing emergency cash loans, primarily because:

    • They require hard credit pulls that lower scores
    • They impose rigid credit score cutoffs
    • Loan decisions can take days or weeks
    • Rejections are frequent for subprime or thin-credit applicants
    • Loan sizes tend to be too large for small emergency needs

    By contrast, GADCapital’s platform:

    • Uses soft credit checks only
    • Bases decisions on verified income and real-time banking data
    • Delivers same-day or next-day funding for qualified borrowers
    • Provides loan offers for as little as $100
    • Focuses on urgent financial situations

    This makes GADCapital’s system a practical alternative for those searching for payday loans online no credit check instant approval while avoiding the bureaucracy of traditional financial institutions.

    How GADCapital’s Process Works for No Credit Check Loans

    Applying for a same day payday loan no credit check through GADCapital involves a simple four-step path:

    1. Online Application: Consumers fill out a secure digital form detailing employment, income, and banking information in just a few minutes.
    2. Soft Credit and Bank Data Review: GADCapital’s system performs a soft credit inquiry and analyzes recent bank activity to confirm financial stability.
    3. Multiple Lender Offers: Licensed lenders respond with side-by-side offers, presenting clear loan terms, rates, and repayment schedules.
    4. E-Signature and Funding: Once borrowers choose an offer, they e-sign documents electronically and may receive funds via ACH deposit or debit card push as quickly as the same business day.

    This digital workflow provides consumers with a faster and more transparent way to secure instant payday loans online guaranteed approval possibilities compared to traditional lenders.

    Who Can Apply for GADCapital’s No Credit Check Loans

    Consumers interested in using GADCapital’s platform for payday loans online no credit check instant approvalgenerally need to:

    • Be at least 18 years old
    • Reside in the United States
    • Have verifiable income from wages, benefits, or self-employment
    • Maintain an active checking account for loan deposits and repayments
    • Provide a valid email address and phone number

    By focusing on current financial circumstances rather than credit history alone, GADCapital opens access to no credit check loans guaranteed approval possibilities for individuals who might otherwise be excluded from traditional lending options.

    Types of No Credit Check Loans Offered Through GADCapital’s Platform

    GADCapital’s digital platform connects borrowers with various lending products, including:

    • $255 Payday Loans: A popular micro-loan option in states with lending caps for covering immediate small expenses.
    • Instant Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval Possibilities: Larger loan amounts up to $1,000 for urgent financial situations like auto repairs or medical bills.
    • Bad Credit Payday Loans: Designed for borrowers with sub-600 FICO scores who can verify income and employment.
    • Emergency Loans: Aimed at covering life-critical costs, such as emergency medical expenses or overdue utility bills.
    • Same Day Loans: Specifically designed for consumers needing funds within hours rather than waiting for traditional processing.

    All loans are provided by licensed lenders who adhere to state regulations, helping borrowers secure payday loans online no credit check instant approval safely and legally.

    Key Features of GADCapital’s Digital Lending Platform

    GADCapital’s platform introduces several advantages for consumers exploring no credit check loans:

    • Soft Credit Inquiries: Borrowers avoid hard credit pulls, preserving credit scores.
    • Same-Day Funding Available: Many loans are funded the same business day for urgent needs.
    • Income-Based Approvals: Decisions rely on current income and banking activity, not just credit scores.
    • Transparent Terms: All loan offers disclose rates and fees clearly for consumers seeking payday loans online.
    • Strong Security Measures: GADCapital’s encryption protocols protect sensitive personal and financial data.

    These features make GADCapital’s digital platform a trusted choice for those seeking instant payday loans online guaranteed approval possibilities without traditional lending barriers.

    Benefits and Considerations of GADCapital’s Platform

    Advantages of GADCapital’s platform:

    • Fast application and funding process
    • Access to multiple lenders for competitive loan offers
    • Eligibility for borrowers with diverse credit histories
    • Clear and transparent loan terms
    • Digital convenience with secure online transactions

    Important considerations:

    • Short-term loans may carry higher interest rates
    • Repayment periods are often shorter than traditional loans
    • Loans should only be used for genuine emergencies, not ongoing expenses
    • Borrowers should review terms carefully to avoid future financial strain

    GADCapital emphasizes that same-day payday loans online no credit check are intended as emergency solutions, not long-term financial strategies.

    How GADCapital Fits Into Today’s Emergency Lending Landscape

    As demand for rapid financial solutions grows, GADCapital continues to position itself as a leader in the payday loans online no credit check instant approval market. Through technology and strong partnerships with licensed lenders, the company remains focused on:

    • Expanding credit access for underserved consumers
    • Delivering transparent lending processes
    • Offering a digital alternative to traditional bank loans

    By leveraging advanced digital tools and an extensive lender network, GADCapital helps consumers handle financial emergencies quickly and securely.

    About GADCapital

    GADCapital is a digital lending platform connecting consumers with licensed lenders offering no credit check payday loans, same-day payday loans online, and other short-term financial solutions. The company’s mission is to simplify the borrowing process and deliver fast, secure funding for individuals facing unexpected expenses.

    Disclaimer

    This article provides general information about emergency lending services and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Loan terms, interest rates, and availability vary by lender and state. While some lenders may offer high approval rates, no loan approval is truly “guaranteed” and depends on individual circumstances and lender verification processes. This content is for informational purposes only. Prospective borrowers should carefully review all terms and conditions before accepting any loan offer. The publisher assumes no responsibility for actions taken based on this information. All company names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used for informational purposes only.

    Contact Data:
     GADCapital Press Office
    Phone: (800) 961-5909
    Email: info@gadcapital.com
    Website: https://gadcapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: VERAXA Biotech and Voyager Acquisition Corp. Announce Filing of Form F-4 Registration Statement with the SEC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VERAXA Biotech AG (“VERAXA” or the “Company”), an emerging leader in designing novel cancer therapies, and Voyager Acquisition Corp.,  a Cayman Islands exempted company and special purpose acquisition company targeting the healthcare sector (NASDAQ:VACH, “Voyager” or the “SPAC”), announced today the filing of a registration statement on Form F-4 (the “Registration Statement”), which includes a preliminary proxy statement, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) in regards to the proposed Business Combination Agreement announced April 23, 2025.

    “We are excited to share this pivotal milestone in VERAXA’s journey toward becoming a public company,” commented Christoph Antz, Ph.D., CEO and Co-Founder of VERAXA. “The filing of our Registration Statement marks a significant step forward in our path to accessing the public capital markets and vision of bringing the next generation of safe and highly effective cancer therapies to patients. We remain focused on executing the merger effectively with Voyager as we move forward together.”

    While the Registration Statement has not been declared effective, and the information included within is not complete and subject to change, it contains key information about Voyager’s business and securities listing, VERAXA’s drug development pipeline, technology platform, licensing partnerships, intellectual property, and research and development program. It also includes the proposed Business Combination Agreement and the proposals to be considered by SPAC’s shareholders.

    Transaction Overview

    Under the terms of the Business Combination Agreement, VERAXA’s equity value contribution to the Business Combination will amount to approximately $1.3 billion. Accordingly, VERAXA’s shareholders will receive approximately 130 million ordinary shares of the combined company in exchange for their existing VERAXA shares. Existing VERAXA shareholders and management will not receive any cash proceeds as part of the transaction and will roll over 100% of their equity into the combined company.

    Assuming a share price of $10.00 per share and no redemptions of Voyager’s shares by Voyager’s public shareholders, VERAXA (as a combined entity) is expected to have an implied pro forma equity value of approximately $1.64 billion at closing.

    Upon the closing of the Business Combination, VERAXA anticipates access to approximately up to $253 million in cash held in trust by Voyager, prior to the payment of transaction costs of VERAXA and Voyager, and assuming no redemptions by Voyager’s public shareholders.

    The boards of directors of both Voyager and VERAXA unanimously approved the Business Combination. Voyager and VERAXA expect the Business Combination to close in the fourth quarter of 2025. The transaction is subject to approval of Voyager’s and VERAXA’s shareholders and the satisfaction of certain other customary closing conditions.

    Additional information about the transaction will be provided in a Current Report on Form 8-K that will contain an investor presentation to be filed with the SEC and will be available at www.sec.gov. In addition, VERAXA will file other documents regarding the Business Combination with the SEC. This communication is not intended to be, and is not, a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or any other document that Voyager has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with the Business Combination.

    Advisors

    Anne Martina Group is acting as sole M&A advisor to VERAXA. Duane Morris LLP is acting as legal counsel to VERAXA. Winston & Strawn LLP is serving as legal counsel to Voyager. Cantor Fitzgerald is acting as Voyager’s capital markets advisor.

    About VERAXA Biotech

    At VERAXA, we are building a premier engine for the discovery and development of next-generation antibody-based therapeutics, including bispecific ADCs, bispecific T cell engagers and other innovative formats. Powered by a suite of transformative technologies and guided by rigorous quality-by-design principles, we are rapidly advancing our pipeline of ADCs and proprietary BiTAC formats into clinical development and beyond. VERAXA was founded on scientific breakthroughs made at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, a world-renowned institution known for pioneering life science research and cutting-edge technology. For more information, please visit www.veraxa.com.

    On April 22, 2025, VERAXA entered into a definitive business combination agreement (the “Business Combination Agreement”) with Voyager Acquisition Corp., a Cayman Islands exempted company and special purpose acquisition company targeting the healthcare sector (NASDAQ: VACH, “Voyager”). Upon closing of the Business Combination Agreement, VERAXA is expected to become a publicly traded company listed on NASDAQ.

    About Voyager Acquisition Corp.

    Voyager is a special purpose acquisition company with a bold mission: to revolutionize the healthcare sector through a merger, stock purchase, or business combination. Our team of experienced executives includes unparalleled expertise in investing, operations, and medical innovation, supported by a vast network of connections. With these strengths, we not only seek to drive success but commit to scaling companies to unprecedented heights in the healthcare industry. For more information, please visit https://www.voyageracq.com.

    Participants In the Solicitation

    Voyager, VERAXA, and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from Voyager’s stockholders with respect to the Business Combination. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names and interests in the Business Combination of Voyager’s directors and officers in Voyager’s filings with the SEC, including, when filed with the SEC, the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, amendments and supplements thereto, and other documents filed with the SEC. Such information with respect to VERAXA’s directors and executive officers will also be included in the proxy statement/prospectus. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described below under the heading “Additional Information and Where to Find It”.

    Non-Solicitation

    This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the potential transaction and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of Voyager or VERAXA, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes certain statements that may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements about future events or Voyager’s or VERAXA’s future financial or operating performance. For example, statements regarding VERAXA’s anticipated growth and the anticipated growth and other metrics, statements regarding the benefits of the Business Combination, and the anticipated timing of the completion of the Business Combination are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “project,” “strive,” “budget,” “forecast,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “predict,” “potential” or “continue,” or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology.

    These forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future results of Voyager and VERAXA are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about the industry in which VERAXA operates, as well as the beliefs and assumptions of Voyager’s management and VERAXA’s management. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and are subject to, without limitation, (i) known and unknown risks, including the risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the final prospectus of Voyager relating to its initial public offering filed with the SEC, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by Voyager; (ii) uncertainties; (iii) assumptions; and (iv) other factors beyond Voyager’s or VERAXA’s control that are difficult to predict because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. They are neither statements of historical fact nor promises or guarantees of future performance. Therefore, VERAXA’s actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements and Voyager and VERAXA therefore caution against relying on any of these forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Voyager and its management, VERAXA and its management, as the case may be, are inherently uncertain and are inherently subject to risks, variability and contingencies, many of which are beyond Voyager’s or VERAXA’s control. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: (i) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement and any subsequent definitive agreements with respect to the Business Combination; (ii) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Voyager, VERAXA, or others following the announcement of the Business Combination and any definitive agreements with respect thereto; (iii) the inability to complete the Business Combination due to the failure to obtain consents and approvals of the shareholders of Voyager, to obtain financing to complete the Business Combination or to satisfy other conditions to closing, or delays in obtaining, adverse conditions contained in, or the inability to obtain necessary regulatory approvals required to complete the transactions contemplated by the Business Combination Agreement; (iv) changes to the proposed structure of the Business Combination that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations or as a condition to obtaining regulatory approval of the Business Combination; (v) projections, estimates and forecasts of revenue and other financial and performance metrics, projections of market opportunity and expectations, and the estimated implied enterprise value of VERAXA; (vi) VERAXA’s ability to scale and grow its business, and the advantages and expected growth of VERAXA; (vii) VERAXA’s ability to source and retain talent, the cash position of VERAXA following closing of the Business Combination; (viii) the ability to meet stock exchange listing standards in connection with, and following, the consummation of the Business Combination; (ix) the risk that the Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations of VERAXA as a result of the announcement and consummation of the Business Combination; (x) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of VERAXA to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain key relationships and retain its management and key employees; (xi) costs related to the Business Combination; (xii) changes in applicable laws, regulations, political and economic developments; (xiii) the possibility that VERAXA may be adversely affected by other economic, business and/or competitive factors; (xiv) VERAXA’s estimates of expenses and profitability; (xv) the failure to realize estimated shareholder redemptions, purchase price and other adjustments; and (xvi) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the filings by Voyager with the SEC. There may be additional risks that neither Voyager nor VERAXA presently know or that Voyager and VERAXA currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of Voyager or VERAXA speak only as of the date they are made. None of Voyager or VERAXA undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect any changes in their respective expectations with regard thereto or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Business Combination Agreement, Voyager and/or VERAXA intend to file relevant materials with the SEC, including the Registration Statement, which will include a proxy statement/prospectus of Voyager, and will file other documents regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. This communication is not intended to be, and is not, a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or any other document that Voyager has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. When available, the definitive proxy statement and other relevant materials for the proposed transaction will be mailed or made available to stockholders of Voyager as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed transaction.

    Before making any voting or investment decision, investors and stockholders of Voyager are urged to carefully read, when they become available, the entire registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus, and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to these documents, and the documents incorporated by reference therein, because they will contain important information about Voyager, VERAXA, and the proposed transaction. Voyager’s investors and stockholders and other interested persons will also be able to obtain copies of the registration statement, the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, other documents filed with the SEC that will be incorporated by reference therein, and all other relevant documents filed with the SEC by Voyager in connection with the Transaction, without charge, once available, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to Voyager at the address set forth below.

    Contact

    VERAXA Biotech AG Voyager Acquisition Corp.
    Dr. Christoph Antz
    CEO
    Telephone: +49-6221-3521330
    Email: antz@veraxa.com    		 Mr. Adeel Rouf
    Chief Executive Officer, and Director
    Email: adeel@voyageracq.com
       
    For Media & Investors
    Mario Brkulj
    Valency Communications
    Telephone: +49 160 9352 9951
    Email: mbrkulj@valencycomms.eu    		  
       
    BiTAC is a trademark of VERAXA Biotech AG.  
       

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SAML Provides Update on Disclosure Status and OTC Markets Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Samsara Luggage Inc. (OTC: SAML), a publicly traded company focused on acquiring and growing businesses in the public safety sector, today issued an update regarding its financial disclosures and status on the OTC Markets platform.

    SAML is currently in the process of completing its outstanding audited financials and disclosures. The delays stem primarily from accounting and compliance matters related to legacy issues predating current management, including historical SEC comments and the need to implement updated internal systems for more efficient reporting as SAML grows.

    In the last three years, SAML has also changed auditors twice, first transitioning to an India-based audit firm and then again to a U.S.-based PCAOB-registered auditor, aligning with its future listing ambitions. This process, while essential, added further complexity and time to audit completion.

    Additionally, SAML faced significant cash flow constraints during the 2023–2024 market downturn, which limited its ability to allocate resources aggressively toward finalizing its financials. Despite this, SAML has remained focused on strengthening its operational foundation and preparing for future growth.

    Management stated:

    “While SAML was effectively in a holding pattern throughout 2023 and much of 2024 due to capital constraints, the team has worked diligently behind the scenes to prepare for the next phase of growth. We believe now is the time to execute, particularly as market conditions and trade policy shifts begin to favor our business model. There is no strategic value in remaining on the OTC for the long term, and we’re fully focused on transitioning to a major exchange where we can properly raise capital and unlock shareholder value.”

    SAML management is currently finalizing its audited financials and is targeting submission of all outstanding filings before the beginning of Q4. SAML is also considering filing a registration statement and applying to uplist to a national exchange either concurrently with or shortly after the disclosures are filed. This move is intended to support a robust acquisition pipeline and accelerate growth across its key subsidiaries.

    SAML has been advised not to submit interim unaudited financials, but instead to file complete, audited financials with all necessary adjustments. However, OTC Markets rules prohibit having multiple overdue filings, which may result in SAML being temporarily moved to the OTC Expert Market until compliance is restored.

    SAML affirms that, if such a move occurs, it will be temporary and is prepared to submit the appropriate forms to return to the main OTC tier as quickly as possible.

    “We are working with urgency and determination to complete our filings, restore full compliance, and pursue our listing and capital objectives. We’re excited about what lies ahead and are fully committed to delivering value to our shareholders.”

    For further information on SAML, please see its communication channels:
    Website: https://ert-international.com
    X: @ERT_ILUS
    Email: info@ert-international.com
    Source: SAML

    Forward-Looking Statement

    Certain information set forth in this press release contains “forward-looking information”, including “future-oriented financial information” and “financial outlook”, under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, the information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements and includes, but is not limited to, the (i) projected financial performance of the Company; (ii) completion of, and the use of proceeds from, the sale of the shares being offered hereunder; (iii) the expected development of the Company’s business, projects, and joint ventures; (iv) execution of the Company’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to future M&A activity and global growth; (v) sources and availability of third-party financing for the Company’s projects; (vi) completion of the Company’s projects that are currently underway, in development or otherwise under consideration; (vii) renewal of the Company’s current customer, supplier and other material agreements; and (viii) future liquidity, working capital, and capital requirements. Forward-looking statements are provided to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand management’s beliefs and opinions in respect of the future so that they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor in evaluating an investment. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has provided guidance to issuers regarding the use of social media to disclose material nonpublic information. In this regard, investors and others should note that we announce material financial information via official Press Releases, in addition to SEC filings, press releases, Questions & Answers sessions, public conference calls, and webcasts also may take time from time to time. We use these channels as well as social media to communicate with the public about our company, our services, and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media could be deemed to be material information. Therefore, considering the SEC’s guidance, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in our company to review the information we post on the following social & media channels: Website: https://ert-international.com X: @ERT_ILUS

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ILUS Provides Update on Disclosure Status and OTC Markets Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ilustrato Pictures International Inc. (OTC: ILUS) (“ILUS” or the “Company”), a mergers and acquisitions company focused on acquiring and scaling businesses in the public safety and industrial sectors, today provided an update regarding the status of its financial disclosures and listing position on the OTC Markets.

    As previously communicated to shareholders, ILUS consolidates multiple subsidiaries, including publicly traded companies, within its financial reporting. As a result, any downstream delays, such as audit transitions, accounting changes, or filing delays at the subsidiary level, have a direct impact on ILUS’s ability to complete its consolidations and audits in a timely manner.

    Over the past two years, ILUS has managed a significant number of moving parts, including new acquisitions, divestitures, a complex acquisition unwind, and the mid-period sale of its subsidiary Quality Industrial to a Nasdaq-listed company. These events, combined with a change in auditors and the need to address legacy SEC comments on historical filings, have unfortunately delayed the ILUS’s 2024 audited financial statements.

    ILUS is actively working with its audit team and is in discussions with the SEC to cure prior comments through its upcoming financial disclosures. Based on professional guidance, ILUS has been advised not to file unaudited interim financials, but instead to file fully audited financials when complete. While this is the correct regulatory approach, it creates a short-term conflict with OTC Markets rules, which prohibit companies from having multiple overdue filings. As a result, ILUS may be temporarily moved to the OTC Expert Market until the updated filings are submitted.

    ILUS is targeting completion of its filings before the beginning of Q4 and reiterates that any such OTC downgrade would be temporary and procedural.

    Management is evaluating the potential filing of a Form S-1 registration statement with the SEC, either shortly after or concurrently with those filings. ILUS may also submit a listing application to Nasdaq, given its view that remaining on the OTC Markets provides limited value to shareholders and has become a constraint on long-term growth.

    “Disappointingly, we found ourselves in a perfect storm,” said CEO Nicolas Link. “We were navigating multiple acquisitions, some of which came with inherited accounting issues, while also addressing our own outstanding SEC comments. During this period, we changed auditors, unwound a prior acquisition that required reinstated financials, and completed the sale of a subsidiary mid-period, forcing us to halt consolidation partway through the year. All of this created a highly complex and resource-intensive audit environment. We couldn’t begin the parent-level audit work until the downstream issues were resolved, which only occurred a few months ago. Now, the team is fully focused on completing the process, and it’s our top priority.”

    “Filing a registration statement and pursuing a Nasdaq application is a significant task, but one we’ve successfully managed several times within the group. While it may take time to clear comments and become effective, it’s an essential step. We cannot stay on the OTC indefinitely; it offers little strategic value and imposes costs without benefit. It’s time to complete this chapter, resolve SEC matters once and for all, and give management the ability to fully execute our 2026 roadmap and unlock the value we’ve worked hard to build.”

    If necessary, ILUS will also file the appropriate forms to return to its previous OTC tier immediately following its updated filings. Regardless of the path, ILUS confirms it will not remain on the OTC Expert Market longer than necessary and intends to operate either on the main OTC tier or a national exchange as soon as possible.

    ILUS is working diligently to complete the required audits and filings and will continue to provide shareholders with updates as progress is made.

    For further information on ILUS, please see its communication channels:
    Website: https://ilus-group.com
    X: @ILUS_INTL
    YouTube: @ILUSInternational
    Email: IR@Ilus-Group.com
    Source: ILUS

    Forward-Looking Statement

    Certain information set forth in this press release contains “forward-looking information”, including “future-oriented financial information” and “financial outlook”, under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, the information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements and includes, but is not limited to, the (i) projected financial performance of the Company; (ii) completion of, and the use of proceeds from, the sale of the shares being offered hereunder; (iii) the expected development of the Company’s business, projects, and joint ventures; (iv) execution of the Company’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to future M&A activity and global growth; (v) sources and availability of third-party financing for the Company’s projects; (vi) completion of the Company’s projects that are currently underway, in development or otherwise under consideration; (vii) renewal of the Company’s current customer, supplier and other material agreements; and (viii) future liquidity, working capital, and capital requirements. Forward-looking statements are provided to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand management’s beliefs and opinions in respect of the future so that they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor in evaluating an investment. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has provided guidance to issuers regarding the use of social media to disclose material nonpublic information. In this regard, investors and others should note that we announce material financial information via official Press Releases, in addition to SEC filings, press releases, Questions & Answers sessions, public conference calls, and webcasts also may take time from time to time. We use these channels as well as social media to communicate with the public about our company, our services, and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media could be deemed to be material information. Therefore, considering the SEC’s guidance, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in our company to review the information we post on the following social & media channels: Website: https://ilus-group.com X: @ILUS_INTL

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cyabra Launches AI-Powered Deepfake Detection Tool to Expose Media Manipulation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cyabra Strategy Ltd. (“Cyabra”), the AI-powered platform for real-time disinformation detection, has announced the launch of its advanced deepfake detection tool designed to help brands and governments counter the growing threat of AI-generated “synthetic” media.

    The new capability uses artificial intelligence to analyze images and videos for signs of manipulation, providing rapid verification of content authenticity. In an era when hyper-realistic fake videos and photos spread disinformation at alarming speeds, Cyabra’s tool empowers organizations to distinguish real content from convincing forgeries, detecting threats to brand reputation and public safety.

    Earlier this year, the World Economic Forum warned that organizations must be vigilant and maintain awareness of attacker techniques to protect their people and systems. In February 2024, it was reported that a finance worker for a multinational firm in Hong Kong was tricked into paying $25 million based on a Zoom meeting in which all of the participants, including the company’s chief financial officer, were all deepfakes.

    The advanced detection tool leverages two proprietary AI models: PixelProof for images and MotionProof for videos. PixelProof uses spatio-frequency analysis to detect invisible pixel inconsistencies, while MotionProof identifies unnatural movement patterns and lip-sync errors across video frames. Both models deliver results in seconds and provide confidence scores with visual heatmap explanations showing exactly where content appears manipulated.

    Dan Brahmy, CEO and Co-founder of Cyabra. “Our detection tool acts as a digital magnifying glass, revealing the invisible fingerprints of even the most convincing deepfakes. As digital manipulation evolves, our defenses must keep pace. This new tool gives our customers the forensic clarity needed to help them preserve trust, safeguard discourse, and defend democratic institutions.”

    Recently fabricated videos of public figures – one depicting U.S. President Donald Trump being “arrested,” and another showing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy seemingly surrendering to Russia – briefly went viral and misled audiences before being debunked. Companies are also increasingly targets of deepfake-driven disinformation. Malicious actors can use AI-generated videos and images to fabricate corporate scandals or executive remarks, wreaking havoc on a company’s reputation and stock price. This vulnerability has made deepfake detection a critical component of brand reputation management.

    Unlike standalone deepfake detection tools, Cyabra’s solution integrates into the company’s comprehensive disinformation detection platform. Deepfakes are rarely used in isolation; they are often deployed alongside fake social media profiles, bot networks, and orchestrated false narratives as part of larger influence campaigns. Recognizing this, Cyabra has built the deepfake detector to work in concert with its existing suite of tools for authenticity analysis, narrative tracking, and 24/7 real-time monitoring. This integrated approach gives government agencies and corporations the context and early-warning signals needed to counter complex disinformation threats.

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

    About Cyabra

    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 solutions protect 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

    About Trailblazer

    Trailblazer is a blank check company formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, share 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 and services that are the subject of a proposed transaction (the “Business Combination”) between Trailblazer and Cyabra. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding Cyabra’s business strategy, products and services, 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 the 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

    In connection with the Business Combination, Trailblazer Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Trailblazer (“Holdings”) has filed a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which includes a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, and certain other related documents, which will be both the proxy statement to be distributed to holders of shares of Trailblazer’s common stock in connection with its solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders with respect to the Business Combination and other matters as may be described in the Registration Statement, as well as the prospectus of Holdings relating to the offer and sale of its securities to be issued in the Business Combination. . After the Registration Statement is declared effective, the proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to all Trailblazer stockholders so that they may vote on the Business Combination.

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

    Trailblazer stockholders are currently able to obtain copies of the preliminary proxy

    statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC that are incorporated by reference therein, and will be able to obtain the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC that will be incorporated by reference therein, once available, in all cases without charge, at the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to: Trailblazer at 510 Madison Avenue, Suite 1401, New York, NY 10022, Telephone: 646-747-9618.

    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 proposed Business Combination. Information about Trailblazer’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Trailblazer’s securities is set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus pertaining to the proposed Business Combination.

    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: RI Mining Launches Global Mobile Cloud Mining Platform – Earn Passive Income with XRP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the cryptocurrency market enters an era defined by clear regulation and increased demand for compliant digital assets, RI Mining has announced the launch of its advanced global mobile cloud mining platform, powered by XRP. Recent legislative developments during the U.S. “Cryptocurrency Week,” including the passage of critical regulations such as the CLARITY Act and the Anti-CBDC Act, have notably boosted investor confidence and driven XRP prices upward.

    Industry Landscape: Why Now?

    The cryptocurrency industry has reached a pivotal turning point, with regulatory frameworks providing greater transparency and certainty. XRP, in particular, has emerged as one of the most practical assets for on-chain efficiency—offering near-instant settlement, low transaction fees, and growing adoption in global payment systems. Its scalability and compliance-friendly architecture also make it a preferred choice among institutional and retail investors seeking exposure to regulated digital finance.

    RI Mining addresses these industry challenges through its mobile cloud mining platform, leveraging XRP rapid settlement capabilities and deploying decentralized, off-grid mining farms powered by cloud infrastructure.

    Key Features of RI Mining Platform

    – Mobile-First Design: Fully accessible via smartphones (iOS and Android) and web browsers, facilitating mining anytime and anywhere.
    – No Hardware Required: Cloud-based operations eliminate expensive equipment and technical complexity.
    – XRP-Focused Mining Efficiency: Capitalizes on XRP rapid settlement speed and low transaction fees to optimize user earnings.
    – AI-Driven Optimization: Advanced artificial intelligence dynamically manages mining resources for maximum profitability and reduced costs.
    – Multi-Cryptocurrency Flexibility: Supports mining of Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH),USDT（TRON） and Dogecoin (DOGE), in addition to XRP.
    – Sustainable Mining Practices: Operates with 100% renewable energy sources, adhering to global environmental and social governance (ESG) standards.
    – Transparent Earnings System: Daily earnings tracking with instant withdrawal or reinvestment options, enhancing user control and transparency.

    Real User Experience: Empowering Investors

    Jennifer Adams, an XRP holder living in Los Angeles, shared her success story: “Before using RI Mining, I was intimidated by the complexity and cost of traditional cryptocurrency mining. RI Mining’s mobile platform has completely changed the way I invest and allows me to earn an ongoing passive income right from my smartphone. The entire process is seamless and transparent, which fits my busy lifestyle perfectly.”

    How Investors Can Get Started – Register & Get $15

    RI Mining offers a straightforward and user-friendly onboarding process:

    1. Visit https://rimining.com/ or download the RI Mining mobile app
     2. Register an account and link your XRP wallet address3. Choose a suitable cloud mining contract tailored to your investment goals.
    4. Automatically begin mining and receive daily earnings credited directly to your account.
    5. Enjoy flexibility by withdrawing or reinvesting your earnings at any time.

    Flexible and diverse contracts, the following are popular choices for quick returns

    $15 contract: 1 day contract period, profit $15 + $0.6
    $100 contract: 2 days contract period, profit $100 + $8
    $500 contract: 5 days contract period, profit $500 + $43
    $1,000 contract: 10 days contract period, profit $1000.00 + $135
    $4,800 contract: 21 days contract period, profit $4800.00 + $1471.68

    (Click here to view more potential profitable contracts)

    RI Mining – Start convenient mobile cloud mining

    The shift toward smarter, more accessible crypto solutions is accelerating. As the market aligns with clarity and demand grows for frictionless mining experiences, one thing becomes clear: the future of earning in crypto may already be in your hand.

    Official website: https://rimining.com/

    Download app: Google Play Store and More downloads

    Disclaimer:This press release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency mining involves inherent risks, including market volatility and potential financial loss. Investors are advised to perform thorough due diligence and consult professional advisors prior to participating.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cloudera Awarded DoD Enterprise Software Initiative (ESI) Agreement, Enhancing Access to AI-Driven Data Solutions Across Federal Agencies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cloudera, the only cloud anywhere platform for data and AI, today announced it has been awarded a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) by the Department of Defense (DoD) through their highly competitive Enterprise Software Initiative (ESI) program. This agreement simplifies procurement and accelerates deployment of Cloudera’s platform across the DoD, U.S. Coast Guard, and the Intelligence Community.

    The BPA allows Cloudera to offer its software for up to five years through a pre-negotiated, competitively awarded contract vehicle, supporting faster and more efficient access to modern data tools. To date, the DoD ESI program has achieved more than $7 billion in cost avoidance through volume pricing and streamlined acquisition via the GSA Federal Supply Schedule, underscoring how Cloudera’s scalable data capabilities align with ESI’s mission to deliver cost-effective solutions that support the DoD’s critical needs.

    “This award opens up significant opportunities for Cloudera to further support the DoD and the Intelligence Community’s digital transformation initiatives, enabling them to leverage the power of their data, anywhere, for enhanced decision-making improved operational efficiency, all while advancing national security,” said Jonathan Veal, group vice president, defense and intelligence at Cloudera. “Through the DoD ESI program, agencies can now more easily access our open data lakehouse, secure generative AI capabilities and trusted AI framework — all delivered within a U.S. citizen-on-soil model that meets the highest standards for compliance, scalability and performance.”

    This BPA marks a new chapter in Cloudera’s partnership with the U.S. defense and intelligence communities, providing a trusted foundation to expand AI-driven capabilities and modernize mission operations at scale.

    To learn more about Cloudera’s public sector business or for information on accessing the cutting-edge capabilities of Cloudera’s data platform via DoD ESI, visit https://www.cloudera.com/solutions/public-sector.html.

    About Cloudera
    Cloudera is the only cloud anywhere platform for data and AI. With 100x more data under management than other cloud-only vendors, Cloudera empowers global enterprises to transform data of all types, on any public or private cloud, into valuable, trusted insights. Our open data lakehouse delivers scalable and secure data management with portable cloud-native analytics, enabling customers to bring GenAI models to their data while maintaining privacy and ensuring responsible, reliable AI deployments. The world’s largest brands in financial services, insurance, media, manufacturing, and government rely on Cloudera to use their data to solve what seemed impossible—today and in the future.

    To learn more, visit Cloudera.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X. Cloudera and associated marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cloudera, Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    Contact
    Jess Hohn-Cabana
    cloudera@v2comms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crowd Street Recognized by CNBC as One of the World’s Top Fintech Companies for Second Year in a Row

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Crowd Street, the private market investment platform helping members achieve their financial goals by providing access to investment opportunities, today announced that it has been named to CNBC’s World’s Top 250 Fintech Companies 2025 in the Alternative Financing category. CNBC defines Alternative Financing as companies that offer businesses and consumers a way to borrow or raise money online.

    For the second consecutive year, CNBC is recognizing Crowd Street for empowering the next generation of private market investors who prefer to invest independently. Private market investing has historically been reserved for institutions and elite wealth managers who primarily serve extremely high net-worth individuals. Crowd Street is providing these same opportunities directly to the millions of accredited investors, many of whom prefer to use a self-directed platform to manage their investments.

    “We are incredibly honored to receive this award – it’s a powerful recognition of the passion and dedication our entire team puts in every day,” said John Imbriglia, CEO of Crowd Street. “This achievement reflects not only our commitment to transforming access to the private markets, but also the tangible impact we can make for the millions of accredited investors who prefer to invest independently by providing them the access, education, and tools to responsibly access the private markets.”

    The recognition from CNBC comes at an exciting inflection point for private markets. Only about three percent of individual investors’ assets are allocated to private market opportunities today, but industry research projects that will rapidly expand, and become a trillion dollar market opportunity by 2028.1 Crowd Street is uniquely positioned to lead the category. As of July 2025, with more than $4.4B invested through its platform solely in commercial real estate, Crowd Street is poised to scale by working with some of the top asset management firms to introduce new fund options across additional asset classes, including private equity, private credit and venture capital later this year.

    CNBC and Statista conducted in-depth research on more than 2,000 eligible companies, considering annual reports, company websites, media monitoring, and notable KPIs to determine the top 250 firms across seven categories. Crowd Street’s notable recognition follows several exciting moments from the company in 2025, including the launch of its new brand, new platform updates, inaugural Member Council, new headquarters in New York City, executives named to Top 50 Women in Fintech and more.

    About Crowd Street
    Crowd Street empowers its members to reach their financial goals through self-directed private market investments. The platform offers a carefully selected marketplace of alternative investment opportunities that have historically only been available to a small group of people. In addition to providing advanced tools, research, and insights to help investors confidently explore these exclusive opportunities, Crowd Street is also building a member experience rooted in trust and experience, further bridging the gap between investment opportunities and true financial wealth. For more information, visit https://www.crowdstreet.com/.

    Media Contact
    LaunchSquad
    CrowdStreet@launchsquad.com

    1)   The Investment Association, Private Markets: A Briefing from The Investment Association, March 2024

    CrowdStreet, Inc. (“Crowd Street”) offers investment opportunities and financial services on its website. Broker dealer services provided in connection with an investment are offered through CrowdStreet Capital LLC (“Crowd Street Capital”), a registered broker dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through CrowdStreet Advisors, LLC (“Crowd Street Advisors”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Crowd Street and a federally registered investment adviser. Investment opportunities available through Crowd Street are speculative and involve substantial risk. You should not invest unless you can sustain the risk of loss of capital, including the risk of total loss of capital. All investors should consider their individual factors in consultation with a professional advisor of their choosing when deciding if an investment is appropriate.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Riot Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CASTLE ROCK, Colo., July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Riot Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT) (“Riot” or “the Company”), a Bitcoin-driven industry leader in the development of large-scale data centers for high performance compute and bitcoin mining applications, announced today that it has scheduled its second quarter 2025 earnings conference call for Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 4:30 P.M. EST. During the call, Riot will discuss the results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    This conference call will be available through the audio-only webcast, please use this link here to register. Participants who choose to dial into the call in the United States or internationally, please use this link here to register. A replay of the webcast will be available after the call ends, through this link.

    About Riot Platforms, Inc.   
       

    Riot’s (NASDAQ: RIOT) vision is to be the world’s leading Bitcoin-driven infrastructure platform. Our mission is to positively impact the sectors, networks, and communities that we touch. We believe that the combination of an innovative spirit and strong community partnership allows the Company to achieve best-in-class execution and create successful outcomes.   
      
    Riot is a Bitcoin mining and digital infrastructure company focused on a vertically integrated strategy. The Company has Bitcoin mining operations in central Texas and Kentucky, and electrical engineering and fabrication operations in Denver, Colorado, and Houston, Texas.

    For more information, visit www.riotplatforms.com.   
       
    Safe Harbor   

    Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that reflect management’s current expectations, assumptions, and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Such statements rely on the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “potential,” “hope,” similar expressions and their negatives are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the Company’s development at its Corsicana Facility and the Company’s plans, projections, objectives, expectations, and intentions about future events and trends that it believes may affect the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation: risks related to the Company’s growth, the anticipated demand for AI/HPC uses, the feasibility of developing the Company’s power capacity for AI/HPC uses, competition in the markets in which the Company operates, market growth, the Company’s ability to innovate and expand into new markets, the Company’s ability to realize benefits from its implementation of new strategies into its business, estimates of Bitcoin production; our future hash rate growth (EH/s); the anticipated benefits, construction schedule, and costs associated with the development of our mining facilities in Texas, Kentucky and elsewhere; our expected schedule of new miner deliveries; our access to electrical power; the impact of weather events on our operations and results; our ability to successfully deploy new miners; the variance in our mining pool rewards may negatively impact our results of Bitcoin production; our megawatt capacity under development; risks related to the Company’s inability to realize the anticipated benefits from immersion cooling; the inability to integrate acquired businesses successfully, or such integration may take longer or be more difficult, time-consuming or costly to accomplish than anticipated; or the failure of the Company to otherwise realize anticipated efficiencies and strategic and financial benefits from our business strategies. Detailed information regarding the factors identified by the Company’s management which they believe may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements in this press release may be found in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed under the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and the other filings the Company makes with the SEC, copies of which may be obtained from the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release, and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur, or of which the Company hereafter becomes aware, except as required by law. Persons reading this press release are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.   
      
    Investor Contact:   
    Phil McPherson   
    303-794-2000 ext. 110   
    IR@Riot.Inc   
      
    Media Contact:   
    Alexis Brock   
    303-794-2000 ext. 118    
    PR@Riot.Inc   

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Seize the ETH Bull Market: GoldenMining Launches ETH-Focused Cloud Mining Contracts offers a Stable Return of $9,700 Per Day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GoldenMining, a global cloud mining platform, has officially launched a new suite of Ethereum (ETH)-focused cloud mining contracts designed to help crypto holders generate stable daily returns without needing hardware, technical expertise, or market timing.

    This announcement comes as Ethereum pushes above $3,400, fueled by the recent approval of ETH spot ETFs and a surge in institutional capital. With ETH forecasted to reach $6,500 by year-end, GoldenMining’s new contract offerings provide an accessible alternative to speculation—enabling users to activate contracts directly with ETH and earn up to $9,700 daily in mining income.

    Smarter Income for ETH Investors

    Rather than navigating market volatility, GoldenMining users can now convert their ETH holdings into an active income stream. Once a user signs a contract using ETH or other supported cryptocurrencies, the platform deploys professional mining infrastructure on their behalf. Users receive daily mining rewards credited automatically to their accounts, allowing them to benefit from Ethereum’s growth while minimizing risk.

    “We’re excited to launch these ETH-specific mining contracts at a time when the market is seeing exponential activity,” said a spokesperson at GoldenMining. “Our goal is to simplify mining access for everyone—especially during this historic phase of Ethereum’s evolution.”

    ETH Contract Options and Returns

    contract Investment Amount Contract Rewards Total income
    Daily Sign-in Rewards $15 $0.6 $15.6
    New User Contract  $100 $3 $106
    Bitmain S23 Hyd $650 $42.25 $692.25
    AntminerL917GH $1800   $287.28 $2087.28
    L916GH $4500  $1890 $6390
    ElphaPex DG Hydro1 $7800 $3346 $11146
    Elphapex DG2 $12000 $8100 $20100

    Security and Simplicity

    All contracts are fully managed by GoldenMining’s professional operations team. There’s no need to set up hardware, manage electricity costs, or handle technical maintenance. Security is ensured through SSL encryption, AIG-backed investment insurance, and fund custody via first-tier financial institutions.

    New users receive a $15 upon registration to test the mining system without any upfront deposit. Supported cryptocurrencies for deposits include ETH, BTC, XRP, DOGE, USDC, and SOL.

    How to Get Started

    1. Register and Get $15 Instantly
     No fees or deposits required. New users receive a free $15 contract to test the platform’s mining system and begin earning within 24 hours.

    2. Choose a Cloud Mining Contract
    Fund your account using ETH or other supported cryptocurrencies such as BTC, XRP, USDC, SOL, or DOGE. Select from various contract options based on your budget and risk preference.

    3. Start Earning Automatically
    Once activated, the contract begins generating daily ETH income. Earnings can be withdrawn or reinvested at any time.

    4. Security and Insurance
    All user funds are stored securely in first-tier banking institutions. SSL encryption protects user data, and investments are insured by AIG Insurance, ensuring top-tier financial security.

    About GoldenMining

    Based in London, GoldenMining is a globally recognized cloud mining platform dedicated to making digital asset mining simple, secure, and profitable. Through high-performance mining centers and user-focused design, the company empowers crypto holders to generate consistent income, regardless of market volatility.

    For more information, visit www.GoldenMining.com or contact info@GoldenMining.com for business cooperation.

     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.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (FMCB) Reports Record Second Quarter 2025 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Net income of $23.1 million, an increase of $1.3 million or 5.9% compared to the second quarter of 2024;
    • Basic earnings per share of $33.06 and diluted earnings per share of $32.94; diluted earnings per share up 12.1% compared to the second quarter of 2024;
    • Diluted earnings per share of $126.87 over the trailing twelve months, up 7.8% compared to $117.73 over the same trailing period a year ago and 15.2% compared to $110.10 for the same period two years ago;
    • Tangible book value per share increased 9.7% to $835.33 compared to $761.62 as of June 30, 2024;
    • Achieved a return on average assets of 1.65% and a return on average equity of 15.09%;
    • Net interest income of $53.9 million, up $3.1 million or 6.1% compared to $50.8 million in the second quarter of 2024; net interest margin (tax equivalent basis) of 4.07%, up from 3.91% in the second quarter of 2024;
    • Continued cost discipline resulted in an efficiency ratio of 44.88%;
    • Liquidity position remains strong with $291.8 million in cash, $1.3 billion in investment securities, of which $573.0 million are available-for-sale, no borrowings and a borrowing capacity of $2.1 billion as of June 30, 2025;
    • Continued to grow our solid capital position with a preliminary total risk-based capital ratio of 15.35%, common equity tier 1 ratio of 13.87%, tier 1 leverage ratio of 11.18% and a tangible common equity ratio of 11.08%;
    • Credit quality remains resilient with an allowance for credit losses on loans and leases of 2.09%; net charge-off ratio of 0.02% for the quarter and no non-accrual loans or leases at quarter-end.

    LODI, Calif., July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (OTCQX: FMCB) (the “Company” or “FMCB”), the parent company of Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California (the “Bank” or “F&M Bank”), reported record second quarter net income of $23.1 million, or $32.94 per diluted common share for the second quarter of 2025 compared with $21.8 million, or $29.39 per diluted common share, for the second quarter of 2024 and $23.0 million, or $32.86 per diluted common share for the first quarter of 2025. Annualized return on average assets was 1.65% and return on average equity was 15.09% for the second quarter of 2025 compared with 1.58% and 15.33% for the second quarter of 2024, and 1.70% and 15.65% for the first quarter of 2025. The expense efficiency ratio for second quarter was 44.88% down from 45.77% for the second quarter of 2024 and up from 43.86% for the first quarter of 2025.

    Net income over the trailing twelve months was $90.0 million compared with $87.9 million for the same trailing period a year earlier. Diluted earnings per share over the trailing twelve months totaled $126.87, up 7.8% compared with $117.73 for the same trailing period a year ago and $110.10 for the same period two years ago. Basic earnings per share over the trailing twelve months totaled $127.01, up 7.9% compared with $117.73 for the same trailing period a year ago and $110.10 for the same period two years ago.

    During the quarter, the Company declared a mid-year cash dividend of $9.30 per share totaling $6.5 million, a 5.7% increase over the $8.80 per share mid-year dividend paid in 2024. The Company has now paid a cash dividend for 90 consecutive years and has increased the cash dividend for 60 consecutive years. Farmers and Merchants Bancorp is a member of a select group of only 55 publicly traded companies referred to as “Dividend Kings,” and is ranked 17th in that group. On July 1, 2025, Sure Dividend released their top-ranked Dividend Kings, based on expected returns over the next five years and ranked Farmers & Merchants Bancorp #5 on this prestigious list.

    CEO Commentary

    Kent Steinwert, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are very pleased with the Company’s financial performance in the second quarter of 2025, highlighted by record second quarter net income of $23.1 million, a return on average assets of 1.65%, and a return on average equity of 15.09%. Net income for the first six-months of 2025 of $46.1 million is the best performing six-month period in the history of the Company. We achieved these impressive results while continuing to maintain a strong liquidity position and balance sheet at quarter end with $291.8 million in cash, $1.3 billion in investment securities, of which $573.0 million are available-for-sale, no borrowings and access to $2.1 billion in borrowing capacity, while maintaining a conservative loan-to-deposit ratio of 76.38%. Capital levels continue to strengthen and are significantly above the regulatory thresholds for “well-capitalized” banks. Total deposits increased $61.2 million, or 1.3% to $4.8 billion at June 30, 2025 compared to December 31, 2024, as we continued our focus on growing deposits with our longstanding client relationships and developing new client relationships. Gross loans and leases were $3.6 billion at the end of the second quarter, up $40.3 million or 1.1% from March 31, 2025 and down $54.4 million or 1.5% from December 31, 2024. The increase in the second quarter was due to increased loan demand while the decrease in the first quarter was partially due to some seasonality in agricultural lending as well as our continued conservative approach in underwriting given the yield curve, which continues to not price in duration risk for loans and leases beyond three years. Credit quality remains solid as we continue to work closely with our borrowers while they work through the current economic cycle, particularly in a few agricultural products adversely impacted by negative conditions in the export market. Our Company remains in excellent financial condition, continues to perform at a high-level and is well positioned to navigate the challenges ahead as we have for the past 109 years.”

    Mr. Steinwert continued, “I am pleased to announce that Bank Director Magazine just released their annual ranking of the top performing banks for 2024 and Farmers & Merchants Bancorp was ranked the #3 bank in the nation across all asset categories. This follows our #2 ranking for 2023 and #1 ranking for 2022. Bank Director’s recognition of our performance over the last three years validates the success of our strategy and commitment to our clients, employees, shareholders and communities.”

    Earnings

    Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was $53.9 million compared with $50.8 million in the same quarter in 2024 and $53.1 million in the first quarter of 2025. Net interest income for the six-months ended June 30, 2025 was $107.0 million, an increase of $4.5 million, or 4.4%, when compared with the $102.5 million for the same period in 2024. The Company’s net interest margin increased to 4.13% for the six-months ended June 30, 2025 compared with 4.02% for the same period in 2024.  The increase in the net interest margin was driven primarily by a decrease in deposit costs. Tangible book value per share increased to $835.33 at June 30, 2025, up 9.7% compared with $761.62 a year ago.

    Balance Sheet

    Total assets at quarter-end were $5.5 billion, up from $5.4 billion as of December 31, 2024. Total cash and cash equivalents were $291.8 million, an increase of $79.2 million from December 31, 2024 and a decrease of $315.5 million compared to March 31, 2025, primarily due to the repayment of brokered deposits. Total loans and leases outstanding were $3.6 billion, a decrease of $54.4 million or 1.5% from December 31, 2024, but an increase of $40.3 million or 1.1% from March 31, 2025. As of June 30, 2025, our total investment securities portfolio was $1.3 billion, an increase of $88.0 million from December 31, 2024 and an increase of $66.6 million from March 31, 2025. The portfolio is comprised of $573.0 million in available-for-sale securities and $748.9 million in held-to-maturity securities. Total deposits decreased $217.6 million to $4.76 billion compared to March 31, 2025, due to the repayment of all brokered deposits of $250.0 million during the quarter. Excluding the brokered deposits, total deposits increased $32.4 million, or 0.7% in the second quarter from March 31, 2025, and increased $61.2 million or 1.3% from December 31, 2024. Our loan to deposit ratio was 76.38% as of June 30, 2025, down from 78.53% as of December 31, 2024, due to an increase in total deposits and a modest decrease in total loans and leases.

    Credit Quality

    The Company’s credit quality remained solid with no non-accrual loans and leases as of June 30, 2025 and a negligible delinquency ratio of 0.03% of total loans and leases. Net charge-offs were 0.02% of average loans and leases for both the second quarter of 2025 and for the first half of 2025 compared to minor net recoveries for the comparative periods in 2024. Net charge-offs over the trailing twelve months were 0.04% of average total loans and leases. The total allowance for credit losses on loans and leases as well as unfunded commitments was $79.0 million as of June 30, 2025 compared to $78.1 million as of March 31, 2025. The allowance for credit losses on loans and leases increased by $0.8 million to $76.2 million, or 2.09% as of June 30, 2025 compared with $75.4, million or 2.10% as of March 31, 2025. A provision of $1.4 million was recorded during the second quarter of 2025 compared to no provision during the second quarter of 2024. The provision totaled $1.7 million for the first six-months of 2025 compared to no provision in the first six-months of 2024.

    Capital

    The Company’s and Bank’s regulatory capital ratios continued to strengthen during the second quarter of 2025. The growth in capital was driven by net income of $23.1 million offset by stock repurchases of $5.3 million and dividends paid of $6.8 million. The Company repurchased 4,546 shares during the quarter, reducing total outstanding shares to 725,367. As of June 30, 2025, there remains $14.7 million authorized for repurchases under the board-approved repurchase plan. At June 30, 2025, the Company’s preliminary total risk-based capital ratio was 15.35% and the common equity tier 1 capital ratio was 13.87%, an increase from 15.23% and 13.75% as of March 31, 2025, respectively. At June 30, 2025, the Company’s tier 1 leverage capital ratio was 11.18%, a decrease from 11.32% as of March 31, 2025, as a result of higher average assets. At June 30, 2025, all F&M Bank capital ratios exceeded the regulatory requirements to be classified as “well-capitalized.” At June 30, 2025, the tangible common equity ratio was 11.08%, up from 10.72% as of June 30, 2024.

    About Farmers & Merchants Bancorp

    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, trades on the OTCQX under the symbol FMCB, and is the parent company of Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California, also known as F&M Bank. Founded in 1916, F&M Bank is a locally owned and operated community bank, which proudly serves California through 33 convenient locations. F&M Bank is financially strong, with $5.5 billion in assets, and is consistently recognized as one of the nation’s safest banks by national bank rating firms. The Bank has maintained a 5-Star rating from BauerFinancial for 35 consecutive years, longer than any other commercial bank in the State of California.

    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp has paid dividends for 90 consecutive years and has increased dividends for 60 consecutive years. As a result, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp is a member of a select group of only 55 publicly traded companies referred to as “Dividend Kings,” and is ranked 17th in that group based on consecutive years of dividend increases. A “Dividend King” is a stock with 50 or more consecutive years of dividend increase.

    In July 2025, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp was named by Bank Director’s Magazine as the #3 best performing bank in the nation across all asset categories in their annual “Ranking Banking” study of the top performing banks for 2024. In July 2024, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp was named by Bank Director’s Magazine as the #2 best performing bank in the nation across all asset categories in their annual “Ranking Banking” study of the top performing banks for 2023. In July 2023, the Bank was named by Bank Director’s Magazine as the #1 best performing bank in the nation across all asset categories in their annual “Ranking Banking” study of the top performing banks for 2022.

    In April 2024, F&M Bank was ranked 6th on Forbes Magazine’s list of “America’s Best Banks” in 2023. Forbes’ annual “America’s Best Banks” list looks at ten metrics measuring growth, credit quality, profitability, and capital for the 2023 calendar year, as well as stock performance in the 12 months through March 18, 2024.

    In December 2023, F&M Bank was ranked 4th on S&P Global Market Intelligence’s “Top 50 List of Best-Performing Community Banks” in the US with assets between $3.0 billion and $10.0 billion for 2023. S&P Global Market Intelligence ranks financial institutions based on several key factors including financial returns, growth, and balance sheet risk profile.

    In October 2021, F&M Bank was named the “Best Community Bank in California” by Newsweek magazine. Newsweek’s ranking recognizes those financial institutions that best serve their customers’ needs in each state. This recognition speaks to the superior customer service the F&M Bank team members provide to its clients.

    F&M Bank is the 18th largest bank lender to agriculture in the United States. F&M Bank operates in the mid-Central Valley of California, including Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Stanislaus, and Merced counties and the east region of the San Francisco Bay Area, including Napa, Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

    F&M Bank was inducted into the National Agriculture Science Center’s “Ag Hall of Fame” at the end of 2021 for providing resources, financial advice, guidance, and support to the agribusiness communities as well as to students in the next generation of agribusiness workforce. F&M Bank is dedicated to helping California remain the premier agricultural region in the world and will continue to work with the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and processors. F&M Bank remains committed to servicing the needs of agribusiness in California as has been the case since its founding over 109 years ago.

    F&M Bank offers a full complement of loan, deposit, equipment leasing and treasury management products to businesses, as well as a full suite of consumer banking products. The FDIC awarded F&M Bank the highest possible rating of “Outstanding” in their last Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) evaluation.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current expectations regarding the Company’s financial performance. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could” or “may.” Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding loan and deposit production levels of net interest margin, the ability to control costs and expenses, the competitive environment, financial and regulatory policies of the United States government, general economic conditions, inflation, recessions, tariffs, economic uncertainty in the United States, and changes in interest rates. Forward-looking statements in this earnings release include matters that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risk factors include, among others: the effects of and changes in monetary and fiscal policies, including the interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board and their effects on inflation risk; political and economic uncertainty, including any decline in global, domestic or local economic conditions or the stability of credit and financial markets; and other relevant risks detailed in the Company’s Form 10-K, Form 10-Qs, and various other securities law filings made periodically by the Company, copies of which are available from the Company’s website. All such factors are difficult to predict and are beyond the Company’s ability to control or predict. There also may be additional risks that the Company does not presently know, or that the Company currently believes to be immaterial, that could also cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those contained in these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this press release or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

    For more information about Farmers & Merchants Bancorp and F&M Bank, visit fmbonline.com.

    Investor Relations Contact
    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp
    Bart R. Olson
    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    Phone: 209-367-2485
    bolson@fmbonline.com

                             
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS                        
          Three-Months Ended     Six-Months Ended
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)     June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024     June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    Earnings and Profitability:                        
    Interest income     $ 70,061     $ 67,138     $ 69,831       $ 137,199     $ 136,472  
    Interest expense       16,193       13,997       19,050         30,190       33,978  
    Net interest income       53,868       53,141       50,781         107,009       102,494  
    Provision for credit losses       1,400       300       –         1,700       –  
    Noninterest income       5,519       5,021       4,767         10,540       9,842  
    Noninterest expense       26,651       25,509       25,422         52,160       50,943  
    Income before taxes       31,336       32,353       30,126         63,689       61,393  
    Income tax expense       8,281       9,344       8,359         17,625       16,903  
    Net income     $ 23,055     $ 23,009     $ 21,767       $ 46,064     $ 44,490  
                             
    Basic earnings per share     $ 33.06     $ 32.88     $ 29.39       $ 65.94     $ 59.95  
    Diluted earnings per share     $ 32.94     $ 32.86     $ 29.39       $ 65.80     $ 59.95  
    Weighted Average Shares Outstanding – Basic       697,332       699,736       740,752         698,527       742,150  
    Weighted Average Shares Outstanding – Diluted       699,852       700,215       740,752         700,102       742,150  
    Return on average assets       1.65 %     1.70 %     1.58 %       1.67 %     1.65 %
    Return on average equity       15.09 %     15.65 %     15.33 %       15.37 %     15.82 %
    Loan yield       6.08 %     6.07 %     6.13 %       6.07 %     6.11 %
    Cost of average total deposits       1.31 %     1.17 %     1.51 %       1.25 %     1.39 %
    Net interest margin – tax equivalent       4.07 %     4.20 %     3.91 %       4.13 %     4.02 %
    Effective tax rate       26.43 %     28.88 %     27.75 %       27.67 %     27.53 %
    Efficiency ratio       44.88 %     43.86 %     45.77 %       44.37 %     45.35 %
    Book value per share     $ 852.72     $ 825.18     $ 779.40       $ 852.72     $ 779.40  
    Tangible book value per share     $ 835.33     $ 843.33     $ 761.62       $ 835.33     $ 761.62  
                             
    Balance Sheet:                        
    Total assets     $ 5,478,773     $ 5,680,024     $ 5,267,485       $ 5,478,773     $ 5,267,485  
    Cash and cash equivalents       291,752       607,254       295,936         291,752       295,936  
    of which held at Fed       178,999       515,758       225,676         178,999       225,676  
    Total investment securities       1,321,812       1,255,204       1,046,210         1,321,812       1,046,210  
    of which available-for-sale       572,951       495,433       251,413         572,951       251,413  
    of which held-to-maturity       748,861       759,771       794,797         748,861       794,797  
    Gross loans and leases       3,635,831       3,595,511       3,692,237         3,635,831       3,692,237  
    Allowance for credit losses – loans and leases       76,169       75,423       74,432         76,169       74,432  
    Total deposits       4,760,364       4,977,968       4,597,055         4,760,364       4,597,055  
    Subordinated debentures       10,310       10,310       10,310         10,310       10,310  
    Total shareholders’ equity     $ 618,532     $ 602,306     $ 576,220       $ 618,532     $ 576,220  
                             
    Loan-to-deposit ratio       76.38 %     72.23 %     80.32 %       76.38 %     80.32 %
    Percentage of checking deposits to total deposits       49.23 %     50.79 %     48.60 %       49.23 %     48.60 %
                             
    Capital ratios (Bancorp) (1)                        
    Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets       13.87 %     13.75 %     13.09 %       13.87 %     13.09 %
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets       14.09 %     13.97 %     13.32 %       14.09 %     13.32 %
    Risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets       15.35 %     15.23 %     14.58 %       15.35 %     14.58 %
    Tier 1 leverage capital ratio       11.18 %     11.32 %     10.66 %       11.18 %     10.66 %
    Tangible common equity ratio (2)       11.08 %     10.40 %     10.72 %       11.08 %     10.72 %
                             
    (1) Capital information is preliminary for June 30, 2025                        
    (2) Non-GAAP measurement                        
                             
    Non-GAAP measurement reconciliation:                        
                             
    (Dollars in thousands)     June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024          
                             
    Shareholders’ equity     $ 618,532     $ 602,306     $ 576,220            
    Less: Intangible assets       12,609       12,740       13,145            
    Tangible common equity     $ 605,923     $ 589,566     $ 563,075            
                             
    Total assets     $ 5,478,773     $ 5,680,024     $ 5,267,485            
    Less: Intangible assets       12,609       12,740       13,145            
    Tangible assets     $ 5,466,164     $ 5,667,284     $ 5,254,340            
                             
    Tangible common equity ratio (1)       11.08 %     10.40 %     10.72 %          
                             
    (1) Tangible common equity divided by tangible assets                        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ataccama brings AI to data lineage to help business users understand and trust their data

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ataccama, the data trust company, today announced the release of Ataccama ONE v16.2, the latest version of its unified data trust platform. This release makes it easier for business users to understand how data moves and changes across systems without writing a single line of SQL. With intuitive, compact lineage views and improved performance, teams can make better decisions with greater confidence and speed.

    Most business teams can’t see where their data comes from or how it has been changed. Instead, they rely on technical experts to explain the logic behind key metrics, which slows decision-making and exposes organizations to unnecessary risk. Forrester reports that only 20% of business decision-makers are self-sufficient with analytics tools. The result is a persistent trust gap that makes it harder to govern data, scale analytics, or move at the speed business demands. 

    Ataccama closes that gap by turning complex data logic into plain language. Business users can now trace a data point’s origin and understand how it was profiled or flagged without relying on IT. Ataccama shows how data flows through systems and provides plain-language descriptions of the steps behind every number. For example, in a financial services setting, a data steward can immediately see how a risk score was derived or how a flagged transaction passed through a series of enrichment and quality checks. That kind of visibility shortens reviews, streamlines audits, and gives business teams the confidence to act on the data in front of them.

    “We’re seeing enterprise data projects increasingly kick off in the business, not just in IT, and that changes everything,” said Jessica Smith, VP of Data Quality at Ataccama. “The teams driving these initiatives need to understand where the data comes from, how it’s changed, and whether it can be trusted. That’s why we’ve focused on making complex data processes, like profiling, quality checks, and lineage, clear and usable to everyone. Because if data is going to scale across the business, it has to work for the people who are using it.”

    Ataccama strengthens day-to-day governance and lays the groundwork for more scalable, compliant AI initiatives. Key features include:

    • AI-powered data lineage. Automatically generates readable descriptions of how data was transformed both upstream and downstream, clarifying filters, joins, and calculations, so business users can understand the logic behind each dataset without reading SQL.
    • Compact lineage diagrams. Presents a simplified, high-level view of data flows with the option to drill into details on demand. This makes it easier to identify issues, answer audit questions, and align stakeholders on how data flows through the organization.
    • Edge processing for secure lineage. Enables metadata extraction from on-prem or restricted environments without moving sensitive data to the cloud. Organizations can maintain compliance, minimize risk, and still get full visibility into their data pipelines, regardless of where the data lives.
    • Expanded pushdown support and performance enhancements. Users can now execute profiling and data quality workloads in pushdown mode for BigQuery and Azure Synapse, minimizing data movement and improving performance for large-scale workloads. The release also includes volume support for Databricks Unity Catalog, further optimizing execution within modern cloud platforms. 

    Ataccama ONE v16.2 data trust platform is available immediately. To learn how to simplify data lineage and drive clarity for both business and IT, watch the webinar. 

    About Ataccama

    Ataccama is the data trust company. Organizations worldwide rely on Ataccama ONE, the unified data trust platform, to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and actionable. By integrating data quality, lineage, observability, governance, and master data management into a single solution, Ataccama enables businesses to unlock value from their data for AI, analytics, and operations. Trusted by global enterprises, Ataccama helps organizations drive innovation, reduce costs, and mitigate risk. Recognized as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Augmented Data Quality and the 2025 Magic Quadrant for Data and Analytics Governance, Ataccama continues to set the standard for trusted data at scale. Learn more at www.ataccama.com.

    Media contact 
    press@ataccama.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ozak AI Enters Stage Four of Presale, Surpasses $1.36M Raised as Ethereum Holds $3,200

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Source: Ozak AI

    ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Ethereum maintaining its position above the $3,200 mark, emerging infrastructure projects like Ozak AI, are gaining increased attention from investors and developers alike. Today, Ozak AI officially announced it has entered stage four of its ongoing token presale, with over 32.7 million tokens sold and more than $1.36 million raised to date.

    Ozak AI is building a decentralized prediction and automation layer powered by real-time AI and blockchain architecture. With momentum building, the fourth presale round is currently offering the platform’s native token, $OZ, at $0.005. The next stage, priced at $0.01, is expected to launch in the coming weeks as demand continues to rise.

    Ethereum Remains Steady as Investors Explore Infrastructure Plays

    According to independent chart analysis by Mister Crypto, Ethereum is holding firm above the $3,200 level after a recent breakout. Market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, creating an opening for infrastructure projects with real-world integration potential.

    “Ozak AI is capitalizing on current market conditions by offering an alternative layer of intelligence to decentralized systems,” said a company spokesperson. “The positive presale reception reflects a growing appetite for scalable, AI-enhanced blockchain platforms.”

    Source: Mister Crypto (X)

    DePIN Architecture and the Ozak Stream Network (OSN)

    Ozak AI is built on a DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network) architecture that leverages IPFS and distributed nodes to deliver secure, real-time services for data processing and automation. The system’s backbone, Ozak Stream Network (OSN), supports dynamic prediction models, decentralized compute resources, and enterprise-grade integrations.

    Key components include:

    • Prediction Agent (PA): An autonomous module for analyzing structured and unstructured data across financial and business domains.
    • Smart Contract Governance: Tamper-proof, permissioned access enforced on-chain.
    • Scalable Node Distribution: Nodes are added dynamically based on user demand.

    Tokenomics and Roadmap

    The total supply of $OZ is capped at 10 billion, with allocation as follows:

    • 3 billion for presale
    • 3 billion for community growth
    • 2 billion for reserves
    • 1 billion for liquidity
    • 1 billion for team and advisors

    Ozak AI aims to list the token at $1.00 post-presale, representing a structured value path across rounds.

    In parallel with the presale, the project has also launched a $1 million rewards campaign, encouraging community participation through token holding and engagement-based tasks.

    About Ozak AI

    Ozak AI is a decentralized AI infrastructure protocol built to deliver predictive intelligence and automation for Web3 systems. Through its OSN and DePIN framework, it supports IoT integrations, algorithmic trading, and enterprise data pipelines with high reliability and distributed compute.

    More Information
    Website: https://ozak.ai/
    Twitter/X: https://x.com/OzakAGI
    Telegram: https://t.me/OzakAGI

    Contact Us:
    Andres Brinc
    media@ozak.ai

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Ozak AI. 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. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    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.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7becfa2f-8fe5-44e0-bbf2-f1bc8b15b8e4

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/efd70e4e-3b31-4c44-ab8b-491179eeb981

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ripple’s XRP Meets AI Mining: PFMCrypto Offers AI-Enhanced Cloud Mining with Daily Returns

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Ripple’s XRP ecosystem gains global momentum, PFMCrypto is proud to introduce a major leap in accessible crypto mining: the launch of XRP-focused cloud mining contracts. Now available on both web and mobile platforms, these flexible short-term contracts allow users to mine XRP remotely and receive daily XRP rewards—no mining hardware, no complex setup, and no prior experience required. For the first time, retail participants can engage with the XRP economy through a streamlined, fully integrated platform.
    Explore the PFMCrypto website or download the app today.

    XRP Cloud Mining Is Here—Simple, Smart, and Rewarding
    Traditionally known for its role in cross-border payments and institutional finance, XRP now enters a new chapter with PFMCrypto’s latest innovation: easy-to-use cloud mining. Users can mine XRP directly or leverage PFMCrypto’s intelligent AI engine to automatically switch between the most profitable assets—including BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, and more—for optimized returns. All earnings are paid out daily in your chosen cryptocurrency, providing reliable income regardless of market fluctuations.
    Designed for both everyday users and professional investors, this platform empowers users to generate consistent crypto earnings from anywhere, at any time.

    Key Features of PFMCrypto’s XRP Cloud Mining Contracts
    –  Full XRP Integration: Deposit, purchase, mine, and withdraw XRP directly within the platform.
    –  Multi-Coin Mining Support: Mine and receive earnings in BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, USDT, SOL, LTC, and BCH.
    –  AI Revenue Optimization: Proprietary algorithms automatically allocate mining power to the top-performing assets to maximize returns.
    –  100% Remote Access: No mining equipment needed—fully accessible via the PFMCrypto mobile app or browser.
    –  Capital Protection: All contracts include full principal return upon maturity, reducing risk while growing crypto assets.

    Mining Contracts for Every Budget and Strategy:
    PFMCrypto offers a broad range of mining contracts that support XRP-based deposits and withdrawals. Each contract is crafted for flexibility, predictable income, and effective risk management:
    $10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.66 (Free with signup bonus)
    $100 Contract – 2 Days – Earn $3.00 daily + $2 reward
    $500 Contract – 5 Days – Earn $6.15 daily
    $5,000 Contract – 30 Days – Earn $78.50 daily
    $20,000 Contract – 45 Days – Earn $380.00 daily
    Whether you’re testing the waters or building a long-term portfolio, PFMCrypto provides low-risk, high-transparency contracts that deliver stable daily income in XRP.
    Click here to explore more XRP cloud contracts.

    Why PFMCrypto’s XRP Mining Stands Out?
    –  Accessible to Everyone: No mining rigs, no setup, no complexity—just tap and earn.
    –  XRP-Native Integration: Deposit, mine, and withdraw XRP in one seamless ecosystem.
    –  Stable Returns, Smart Allocation: An AI-powered engine dynamically adjusts mining strategies to maximize rewards and ensure daily income across all supported coins.
    –  Multi-Asset Flexibility: Mine XRP directly or diversify earnings into other top digital assets—all with one contract.
    –  Instant Setup, Global Access: Mine from anywhere using your phone or browser—securely and remotely.

    Get Started Today in 3 Easy Steps:
    1.  Sign Up – Create your account and receive a $10 welcome bonus
    2.  Choose a Plan – Select a short- or long-term contract (1–60 days available)
    3.  Start Earning – Track daily profits and withdraw in the token of your choice

    Start mining XRP now at: https://pfmcrypto.net 
    Or download the PFMCrypto mobile app (available for iOS & Android).

    XRP Mining for a Digital Future
    Since 2018, PFMCrypto has helped millions of users around the world generate passive crypto income through secure, smart, cloud-based mining. With the introduction of XRP mining, the platform offers the ideal combination of institutional-grade infrastructure and retail accessibility. Now, users can choose to earn directly in XRP or diversify into major digital assets—all within a secure, fully remote environment.
    “XRP has always been fast, efficient, and scalable,” said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. “Now, it’s also mineable—securely, remotely, and profitably. We’ve eliminated the barriers so anyone can participate in XRP’s future growth.”
    Markets may shift—but daily mining income can remain steady.

    Join the XRP mining revolution today at: https://pfmcrypto.net

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Fusion Fuel’s BrightHy Solutions and Houpu Global Clean Energy Sign Strategic Agency Agreement to Expand Hydrogen Infrastructure in Europe and Latin America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN — Fusion Fuel Green PLC´s (NASDAQ: HTOO) (“Fusion Fuel” or the “Company”) hydrogen advisory and solutions subsidiary, Bright Hydrogen Solutions Ltd (“BrightHy Solutions”), has signed an agency agreement with Houpu Global Clean Energy Co., Ltd. (“Houpu Global Clean Energy”), a leading Chinese manufacturer of hydrogen refueling equipment and clean energy technologies.

    The commercial relationship represents a key milestone in Fusion Fuel’s strategy to expand the deployment of advanced hydrogen refueling infrastructure and integrated hydrogen systems across Iberia and Latin America.

    Under this agreement, BrightHy Solutions will act as Houpu Global Clean Energy’s authorized agent for its hydrogen product portfolio within the territory, leveraging BrightHy Solutions’ deep market experience, commercial network, and engineering expertise to promote, negotiate, and deliver Houpu Global Clean Energy’s equipment and services. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of hydrogen infrastructure projects that support industrial decarbonization and clean mobility solutions throughout the region.

    Houpu Global Clean Energy, with its extensive manufacturing capabilities, engineering know-how, and global project references, brings cutting-edge hydrogen refueling and clean energy solutions to the commercial relationship. Combined with BrightHy’s localized presence, business development capabilities, and technical support services, customers will benefit from an integrated approach that ensures reliable, efficient, and high-quality project execution.

    “We are excited to collaborate with Houpu Global Clean Energy to expand the reach of their hydrogen refueling and clean energy technologies in our markets,” said Mr. Frederico Figueira de Chaves, Chief Executive Officer of BrightHy Solutions. “Houpu Global Clean Energy’s strong industrial background, combined with BrightHy Solutions’ customer-driven approach and local expertise, positions us to deliver complete and dependable solutions to clients who are driving the hydrogen transition.”

    Mr. Liu Xing, vice president of Houpu Global Clean Energy, added: “Working with BrightHy Solutions strengthens our ability to serve the growing demand for hydrogen infrastructure outside of China. Their market knowledge and commitment to technical excellence make them an ideal partner to jointly pursue the expansion of hydrogen solutions across new territories.”

    As demand for hydrogen continues to grow globally, this agreement reinforces both companies’ shared vision to advance practical, safe, and scalable hydrogen technologies in support of the global energy transition.

    About Fusion Fuel Green PLC

    Fusion Fuel Green PLC (NASDAQ: HTOO) provides integrated energy engineering, distribution, and green hydrogen solutions through its Al Shola Gas and BrightHy Solutions platforms. With operations spanning LPG supply to hydrogen solutions, the Company supports decarbonization across industrial, residential, and commercial sectors.

    About Bright Hydrogen Solutions Ltd

    Bright Hydrogen Solutions Ltd, a subsidiary of Fusion Fuel Green PLC (NASDAQ: HTOO) is positioning itself as a leader in the hydrogen through electrolysis solutions market. With its substantial industry experience, BrightHy Solutions is a partner to clients through the entire hydrogen production value chain including plant design, tailored engineering solutions, equipment sourcing, engineering and implementation oversight. BrightHy Solutions has a strong and core focus on safety, reliability, and efficiency.

    About Houpu Global Clean Energy Co., Ltd.

    Houpu Global Clean Energy Co., Ltd. is a leading provider of hydrogen refueling and clean energy infrastructure solutions, specializing in the development and integration of equipment for the entire hydrogen value chain. As a pioneer in China’s clean mobility sector, Houpu Global Clean Energy leverages decades of engineering experience and a strong manufacturing base to deliver advanced solutions including hydrogen dispensers, compressors, storage systems, and control systems. The company’s expertise spans design, manufacturing, and turnkey deployment of hydrogen refueling stations and related equipment. With a commitment to safety, reliability, and innovation, Houpu Global Clean Energy is enabling the decarbonization of transportation and industry, supporting the global shift toward a low-carbon future.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or the Company’s future financial or operating performance. In some cases, you can identify these statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “should,” “seeks,” “future,” “continue,” “plan,” “target,” “predict,” “potential,” or the negative of such terms, or other comparable terminology that concern the Company’s expectations, strategy, plans, or intentions. Forward-looking statements relating to expectations about future results or events are based upon information available to the Company as of today’s date and are not guarantees of the future performance of the Company, and actual results may vary materially from the results and expectations discussed. The Company’s expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results in future periods are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties described under Item 3. “Key Information – D. Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), on May 9, 2025 (the “Annual Report”), and other filings with the SEC. Should any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the underlying assumptions about the Company’s business and the commercial markets in which the Company operates prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described as anticipated, estimated or expected in the Annual Report. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the Company or other matters and attributable to the Company or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date hereof, except as required by law.

    Investor Relations Contact
    ir@fusion-fuel.eu
    www.fusion-fuel.eu 

    Wire Service Contact:
    IBN
    Austin, Texas
    www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com 
    512.354.7000 Office
    Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BYDFi’s MoonX Integrates xStocks for Onchain Trading of Tokenized U.S. Equities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BYDFi’s professional-grade onchain trading tool, MoonX, now supports xStocks—a tokenized equity product issued by Switzerland-based Backed Finance. Through this integration, users can seamlessly buy and sell tokenized representations of leading U.S. stocks such as NVDA, GOOGL, TSLA, and AMZN directly on the Solana blockchain using crypto assets.

    Introducing xStocks: Real-World Equities on Solana

    xStocks are onchain tokens representing shares of publicly traded U.S. companies. Each token is fully backed 1:1 by the corresponding underlying equity held by a licensed custodian, providing users with blockchain-native access to traditional assets while ensuring transparency and security.

    The tokens are issued by Backed, a Swiss financial services provider that operates under the country’s DLT regulatory framework. xStocks are built using the SPL token standard and are fully deployed on the Solana blockchain, ensuring high-speed transferability and onchain compatibility with Web3 tools and decentralized applications.

    To ensure transparency, xStocks are integrated with Chainlink’s Proof of Reserve (PoR) system. This allows anyone to independently verify, onchain and in real time, that the number of tokenized shares in circulation is fully backed by the underlying securities held in custody. The product offers 24/7 access to U.S. equities without the constraints of traditional trading hours or brokerage account requirements.

    Why It Matters: Unlocking Stock Market Access for Crypto Users

    The addition of xStocks significantly extends MoonX’s asset offering, allowing users to invest in traditional U.S. equities without leaving the crypto ecosystem. Retail and international investors can now trade fractionalized shares of high-value stocks using cryptocurrencies, removing the need for fiat conversion, traditional brokerage access, or lengthy onboarding procedures.

    All transactions are executed directly on the Solana blockchain, offering high-speed finality, transparency, and seamless user experience. All xStocks trades on MoonX are currently zero-fee.

    Access xStocks on MoonX: https://www.bydfi.com/en/moonx/xstocks

    BYDFi’s Vision for Onchain Capital Markets

    The integration of xStocks marks a strategic step in BYDFi’s efforts to support regulated, tokenized real-world assets. By offering onchain access to tokenized U.S. stocks via a compliant product, MoonX reinforces a vision of borderless, inclusive, and regulation-aligned finance for global crypto users.

    “Tokenized stocks represent a meaningful advancement in the evolution of capital markets,” said Michael, Co-founder and CEO of BYDFi. “With xStocks now live on MoonX, we are giving users around the world a frictionless way to access U.S. equities—powered by blockchain, backed by real assets, and available 24/7. This is a step toward our broader vision of building a more open, inclusive, and efficient global financial system.”


    About BYDFi

    Established in 2020, BYDFi has built a global user base of over one million across 190+ countries and regions. Recognized by Forbes as one of the Best Crypto Exchanges & Apps for Beginners of 2025, BYDFi offers a full range of trading services—from Spot and Perpetual Contracts to Copy Trading, Automated Bots, and Onchain Tools—empowering both novice and experienced traders to navigate the digital asset market with confidence.

    BYDFi is dedicated to delivering a world-class crypto trading experience for every user.

    BUIDL Your Dream Finance.

    • Website: https://www.bydfi.com
    • Support email: cs@bydfi.com
    • Business partnerships: bd@bydfi.com
    • Media inquiries: media@bydfi.com

    Twitter( X ) | LinkedIn | Telegram | YouTube | How to Buy on BYDFi

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Commercial Drone Applications Rapidly Expanding as a Huge Spotlight is Currently Shining on Drone Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – On the heels of the latest Drone Production Governmental initiatives and Executive Orders, manufacturing efforts have rapidly increased. For example, in the commercial drone space, the Indoor Inspection and Surveillance Drone Market is growing globally. Technological advancements in drone capabilities have significantly improved their suitability for industrial applications. Modern drones are equipped with advanced sensors, improved navigation systems, and enhanced safety features, enabling precise inspections in complex indoor environments. These enhancements align with industry demands for efficient and safe inspection methods, thereby driving market growth. Furthermore, as governments worldwide recognize the benefits of drones in industrial operations, supportive policies are being implemented to facilitate their integration. The increasing investment in drone research and development is an opportunity for manufacturers to innovate and develop drones tailored to industry-specific needs, expanding their application scope. According to industry reports: “Warehouse inspection has emerged as one of the most critical applications for indoor inspection drones, driven by the increasing complexity of supply chain operations and the increasing demand for automation in logistics. Warehouses, particularly those in e-commerce, retail, and third-party logistics, require regular inspections to ensure operational efficiency, inventory accuracy, and infrastructure maintenance. The manufacturing sector has become one of the leading adopters of indoor inspection drones, driven by the increasing need for automation, precision monitoring, and predictive maintenance. Manufacturing facilities, particularly in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics, require frequent inspections of machinery, production lines, and inventory storage areas to ensure operational efficiency and compliance with quality standards. Indoor drones equipped with AI-powered visual imaging and thermal sensors enable real-time monitoring of production processes, detecting potential defects, equipment malfunctions, and structural vulnerabilities.” Active Companies in the drone industries include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO), NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ: NVDA), Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR), AIRO Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AIRO).

    The article continued: “The North American indoor inspection drone market is witnessing substantial growth, driven by increasing industrial automation, stringent safety regulations, and advancements in drone technology. On the basis of Type, the Global Indoor Inspection Drone Market has been segmented into Rotary-wing Drones, Hybrid Drones, Fixed-wing Drones. Rotary-wing Drones accounted for the largest market share of 78.65% in 2024, with a market value of USD 4,013.90 Million and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.86% during the forecast period. Hybrid Drones was the second-largest market in 2024. Rotary-wing drones are the most commonly used type in indoor inspection applications as a result of their ability to hover, maneuver in tight spaces, and perform precise inspections in complex industrial environments. These drones feature multiple rotors that provide stability and control, making them ideal for navigating confined areas such as warehouses, factories, and energy facilities. Their growth is primarily driven by advancements in autonomous navigation, AI-powered obstacle avoidance, and real-time data analytics.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Releases Video of ZenaDrone’s IQ Nano Indoor Inventory AI Drone for US Defense and Government – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a business technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), Enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, today releases an exclusive video of ZenaDrone’s IQ Nano indoor drone for inventory management and security applications. The video footage showcases the drone’s precision navigation in complex warehouse environments for rapid stock-taking and real-time data integration—capabilities that can improve US military logistics and bolsters supply chain modernization.

    Watch ZenaDrone’s IQ Nano indoor inventory AI drone in operation here.

    The ZenaDrone IQ Nano is a tactical indoor drone engineered and designed for GPS-denied, confined, or high-risk environments where traditional systems and personnel face operational challenges. Engineered for precision, it automates inventory management by scanning barcodes or RFID tags in armories and warehouses, while seamlessly integrating with SAP-based systems for real-time NSN (National Stock Number) military stock tracking verification and cycle counts and eliminating human error. Equipped with HD/thermal imaging and LiDAR, and AI-powered anomaly detection, it also combines secure indoor surveillance and security of command centers, ammunition depots, and restricted zones, with stable hover capabilities, and obstacle avoidance.

    “With the IQ Nano, we are delivering more than a drone—we’re deploying a mission-critical logistics asset built for a technologically advanced military,” said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., ZenaTech CEO. “The US federal government, including the Department of Defense, operates over a billion square feet of warehouse and storage space globally, representing a large opportunity. Our drone is also designed to operate where GPS fails and risks run high for unmatched precision, automation, and situational awareness. We will commence demonstrations of this product in August, a key step in our go-to-market plan.”

    The IQ Nano is part of ZenaDrone’s IQ Series product portfolio. This autonomous indoor drone features an NDAA-compliant supply chain that excludes Chinese produced components. The company has initiated submission for the Green UAS certification – the required pathway to Blue UAS (Unmanned Autonomous Systems) approval for US military procurement listing. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the drone industries include:

    ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO), an aerospace defense company pioneering smart, autonomous solutions for the global manned and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry, recently announced the successful completion of a live demonstration of its DefendAir™ Personal Net Gun System to a select group of Israeli security and defense professionals.

    The demonstration was attended by 25 senior officers and experts from various tactical units and critical infrastructure defense entities. During the live field simulation, ParaZero’s DefendAir system demonstrated 100% interception success, effectively neutralizing every fast-incoming multirotor drone threat in real-time scenarios. While specific affiliations remain confidential, participants represented top-level Israeli national security sectors, including site protection and strategic defense planning.

    NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ: NVDA) Developments: Vision software company Foresight Autonomous Holdings has integrated Nvidia’s Jetson Orin generative AI computing modules into its 3D-perception system.   Foresight is using Nvidia’s Jetson Orin Nano and Jetson AGX Orin modules to improve the capabilities of its perception systems deployed in various use cases, with a major focus on autonomous drones and unmanned aerial vehicles.

    The Jetson modules, which are used in generative AI, computer vision and advanced robotics, upgrade Foresight’s vision system with the computing power needed for autonomous drones and UAVs, according to Foresight. The Nano module is best suited for compact, lightweight UAVs and provides them with robust AI performance and energy efficiency in a small and lightweight package. The Nano reduces power consumption while maintaining high performance, which makes it well suited for drones operating in wide open or remote areas.

    Archer (NYSE: ACHR) recently announced the company raised an additional $850M following the White House’s announcement last week of an Executive Order by President Trump to implement an eVTOL Integration Pilot Program in the United States. This program is focused on accelerating the deployment of eVTOL aircraft in the U.S.

    Archer intends to closely coordinate with the White House, Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration on how this can integrate into Archer’s plans to ramp its operations in the U.S. ahead of the LA 28 Olympic Games at which Archer will serve as the Official Air Taxi Provider of the Olympic Games and Team USA. Archer believes cross-industry collaboration will be the key to the success of the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program and the U.S. achieving its goal of “dominance” within this new category of aircraft.

    AIRO Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AIRO), a global leader in advanced aerospace and defense technologies, recently announced plans to expand its U.S. footprint with the addition of a new manufacturing and engineering development facility. This strategic move builds on the success of AIRO’s existing operations and is driven by the growing global demand for AIRO’s flagship product, the RQ-35 ISR Drone.

    The RQ-35 ISR Drone has rapidly gained international recognition for its reliability, performance, and mission versatility across defense and security sectors. Known in military applications as the RQ-35 Heidrun, the system offers significant advantages over existing micro-ISR drones due to its combination of full autonomy, long flight endurance, and ease of operation. It has been rigorously tested and deployed in harsh electronic warfare and GPS-denied environments, including active conflict zones, where it has demonstrated exceptional resilience and effectiveness.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland answers the call for its community with sports kit donations

    Source: City of Sunderland

    “Now I can wear the right clothes when I go to my football sessions at The Beacon of Light,” says Dean, beneficiary of sports kit and active wear donation programme, Kit Out Sunderland.

    In just a matter of weeks, Kit Out Sunderland collected 224kg of sports kit, active wear and footwear to give away to local participants like Dean across the city.

    “Lack of kit and lack of suitable kit is a real barrier to children and young people taking part in sport and physical activity,” says Kathryn Foley, North East Regional Manager for Sported.

    “The point of the project is to gather in unwanted and unused kit that people have got lying around and then distribute it to the community groups that can really make best use of it.”

    One of those groups was Young Asian Voices, with their Executive Manager, Ram Kumareswaradas, adding: “Most of the young people that come into our group don’t have kits, so it stops them from participating.

    “By having these donated items, sports clothing and shoes and trainers, it opens up opportunities for young people and adults to take part in sports.” 

    In total, 13 public donations stations were set up at locations around the city and local area, as well as at Nissan’s manufacturing plant specifically for Nissan employees and their families.

    The kit collected has been swiftly given to local sports groups so that they can provide it to participants and people looking to get active but find having the right kit a barrier.

    Susan Kitchen, from another one of the recipient groups, Grace House, reflects: “For disabled young people and their families facing financial pressures, this kind of support can make a real difference. It’s not just about clothing—it’s about dignity, opportunity, and belonging.

    “Grace House are also proud to be part of a campaign that reduces waste and landfill by giving pre-loved sports clothes a second life.”

    Kit Out Sunderland is a partnership between Active Sunderland, Rise, Sported, StreetGames and Youth Sport Trust, funded by the North East Combined Authority.

    Louise Laws, Strategic Lead for Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing at Rise, says: “Not everyone has the kit, clothing or footwear they need to do what they want, so these generous donations will make a huge difference to break down barriers to participation and mean more children, young people and families can get active, get healthier and build friendships and confidence.

    “The environmental benefits the programme has also supported has made a huge impact, with less textile waste going to landfill.”

    Keep Active were also one of the groups to have received kit, and their Director, Colin Dagg, says: “Sport has always been expensive because you’ve got to buy things, but I think more so now, just in the times we’re living in, everybody’s money is so tight, and a lot of children miss out I think purely and simply because they haven’t got the money, parents can’t afford it.”

    Karen Nobel, CEO of Pallion Action Group, adds: “We were so pleased to be a recipient of Kit Out Sunderland. This would obviously have gone into landfill and now it’s not, it’s gone back into the community, it’s going to remove barriers for those young people and adults who want to get into physical activity but haven’t got the kit.”

    Anna Coulson, StreetGames Network Lead – North East, comments: “The Kit Out Sunderland sorting day was a huge success which involved a lot of stakeholders as well as volunteers from various Foundation of Light community programmes.

    “It was great to see all of the kit which had kindly been donated from the people of Sunderland and even better to see the community organisations receiving the much needed bags of really good sports kit, which will I’m sure be gratefully received by the young people and families they work to support.”

    Andrea Baldwin, Active Sunderland Project Lead, concludes: “Kit Out Sunderland has been a fantastic opportunity to work with some amazing local partners across the region to encourage participation for some of our most vulnerable residents.

    “By working with the community and businesses partners, we were able to reach out to the community to get people to donate their unwanted sports kit, to give it a new home. I hope we’ve made a huge difference.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: College ‘general education’ requirements help prepare students for citizenship − but critics say it’s learning time taken away from useful studies

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Kelly Ritter, Professor of Writing and Communication, Georgia Institute of Technology

    Students learn about the arts and humanities, social sciences, and science and mathematics in general education. Olga Pankova/Moment via Getty Images

    What do Americans think of when they hear the words “general education”?

    By definition, general education covers introductory college courses in arts and humanities, social sciences, and science and mathematics. It has different names, including core curriculum or distribution requirements, depending on the college or university.

    It is also sometimes called liberal education, including by the American Association of Colleges and Universities, which describes it as providing “a sense of social responsibility, as well as strong and transferable intellectual and practical skills.”

    The liberal label can be fodder for conservative groups who argue that today’s general education is part of an indoctrination into higher education’s purported left-leaning belief systems. Some other conservatives support general education as a concept but want more emphasis on so-called traditional values and less on cross-cultural understanding. These initiatives position general education and college as a space for ideological battles.

    As a scholar of historical connections between literacy and social class, I know that general education was designed to provide opportunity for all students without regard for their political preferences.

    The value of a college education can be shaped by political affiliation.
    bernarddobo/iStock via Getty Images

    An education for all

    Eighty years ago, a group of Harvard University faculty created what many colleges and universities still follow as a template for general education. This plan was outlined in the book “General Education in a Free Society.”

    Harvard’s plan was meant for all students, including veterans studying under the GI Bill, and others we today refer to as first generation, where neither parent had a college degree.

    General education made college more accessible to students who were not becoming doctors or lawyers but who also wanted careers outside the vocational trades. It helped make college a place for educating all citizens, not just students of socioeconomic privilege.

    Expanding access to higher education was central to the 1947 special report Higher Education for American Democracy, commissioned by President Harry Truman. The goal was to provide a foundational education for all, especially in math and science. But the report, commonly known as the Truman Commission Report, also included disciplines that help students understand the world – such as writing and communication, literature, psychology and history.

    The purposes of general education are central to two competing views of college today, views that I also hear expressed by students and parents I’ve met in my 28 years as a professor.

    One view of college is of an on-campus experience steeped in the liberal arts that holistically prepares students to live in a functioning democracy. These benefits are seen as worth the time and costs.

    The other view is of college as a sum of career-focused credentials that can begin and end anywhere, not specific to one college campus. These benefits are completely financial, to be gained via the cheapest, quickest means.

    Both of these views are informed by national perspectives that further divide citizens on higher education as a whole, such as Vice President JD Vance’s 2021 statement that “there was a wisdom in what Richard Nixon said approximately 40, 50 years ago. He said, and I quote, ‘The professors are the enemy.’”

    Both these groups of Americans, however, hope that obtaining a college degree will pay off for graduates who find employment and reach a standard of living better than their parents’ generation.

    For the first group, general education is critical to developing the whole student for jobs and life. For the latter, it is an expensive obstacle to it.

    Not surprisingly, these views on education and college often correspond to political party identification and whether a person attended college themselves.

    A July 2023 Lumina Foundation and Gallup Poll showed that only 36% of Americans have a “great deal” of confidence in higher education, with significant partisan differences between the 20% of Republicans who have this confidence, the 56% of Democrats and the 35% of independents who have it. There are also measurable differences between those who have earned a postgraduate degree and those who have not.

    To cut costs, more students are searching for ways to complete general education requirements before they begin college.
    PeopleImages/E+ via Getty Images

    Questioning value

    As college costs continue to rise in 2025, families are struggling – even taking on payment plans for everyday purchases, also known as phantom debt – to make ends meet.

    General education represents about a third of the requirements of a bachelor’s degree and most of an associate degree.

    For those who see college as a waste of money, general education courses are a calculable loss on future income. In the past two decades, this – and the increasingly competitive admissions process for college – has contributed to a tenfold increase in low-income students who take Advanced Placement courses and a 50% increase since 2021 in the number of students in dual-credit coursework. Both programs allow students to complete general education-equivalent courses for free while still in high school.

    Complete College America, a nonprofit advocacy group that works with states to increase college completion rates, supports these moves by students and parents, classifying general education under “gateway courses” to be completed “as soon as possible.”

    Other groups promote stackable units of credit toward college degrees. This push to complete general education requirements before entering college is gaining momentum, despite studies that show Advanced Placement classes, and exams, favor and benefit mostly white, middle- to upper-class students because these students tend to have more time and resources to devote to AP coursework and also take multiple exams in order to earn college credit.

    For college students, general education can offer benefits beyond career attainment.
    ferrantraite/E+ via Getty Images

    Understanding the world

    While arguments for streamlining college and its costs are evergreen, foundational lessons taught across fields of study are as relevant in 2025 as they were in 1945. The U.S. faces threats to its democracy, is navigating rapid advances in technology, and is adapting to population shifts that will change how its residents live and work.

    General education gives students broad foundational knowledge that can be used in a variety of careers. By design, it teaches an understanding of the world outside one’s own and how to live in it – a core requirement for a functioning democracy.

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

    – ref. College ‘general education’ requirements help prepare students for citizenship − but critics say it’s learning time taken away from useful studies – https://theconversation.com/college-general-education-requirements-help-prepare-students-for-citizenship-but-critics-say-its-learning-time-taken-away-from-useful-studies-257083

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Poll finds bipartisan agreement on a key issue: Regulating AI

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Adam Eichen, Ph.D. Candidate in Political Science, UMass Amherst

    Are concerns about AI a bridge across the polarization divide? ZargonDesign/iStock via Getty Images

    In the run-up to the vote in the U.S. Senate on President Donald Trump’s spending and tax bill, Republicans scrambled to revise the bill to win support of wavering GOP senators. A provision included in the original bill was a 10-year moratorium on any state law that sought to regulate artificial intelligence. The provision denied access to US$500 million in federal funding for broadband internet and AI infrastructure projects for any state that passed any such law.

    The inclusion of the AI regulation moratorium was widely viewed as a win for AI firms that had expressed fears that states passing regulations on AI would hamper the development of the technology. However, many federal and state officials from both parties, including state attorneys general, state legislators and 17 Republican governors, publicly opposed the measure.

    In the last hours before the passage of the bill, the Senate struck down the provision by a resounding 99-1 vote. In an era defined by partisan divides on issues such as immigration, health care, social welfare, gender equality, race relations and gun control, why are so many Republican and Democratic political leaders on the same page on the issue of AI regulation?

    Whatever motivated lawmakers to permit AI regulation, our recent poll shows that they are aligned with the majority of Americans who view AI with trepidation, skepticism and fear, and who want the emerging technology regulated.

    Bipartisan sentiments

    We are political scientists who use polls to study partisan polarization in the United States, as well as the areas of agreement that bridge the divide that has come to define U.S. politics. In April 2025, we fielded a nationally representative poll that sought to capture what Americans think about AI, including what they think AI will mean for the economy and society going forward.

    The public is generally pessimistic. We found that 65% of Americans said they believe AI will increase the spread of false information. Fifty-six percent of Americans worry AI will threaten the future of humanity. Fewer than 3 in 10 Americans told us AI will make them more productive (29%), make people less lonely (21%) or improve the economy (22%).

    While Americans tend to be deeply divided along partisan lines on most issues, the apprehension regarding AI’s impact on the future appears to be relatively consistent across Republicans and Democrats. For example, only 19% of Republicans and 22% of Democrats said they believe that artificial intelligence will make people less lonely. Respondents across the parties are in lockstep when it comes to their views on whether AI will make them personally more productive, with only 29% − both Republicans and Democrats − agreeing. And 60% of Democrats and 53% Republicans said they believe AI will threaten the future of humanity.

    On the question of whether artificial intelligence should be strictly regulated by the government, we found that close to 6 in 10 Americans (58%) agree with this sentiment. Given the partisan differences in support for governmental regulation of business, we expected to find evidence of a partisan divide on this question. However, our data finds that Democrats and Republicans are of one mind on AI regulation, with majorities of both Democrats (66%) and Republicans (54%) supporting strict AI regulation.

    When we take into account demographic and political characteristics such as race, educational attainment, gender identity, income, ideology and age, we again find that partisan identity has no significant impact on opinion regarding the regulation of AI.

    State of anxiety

    In the years ahead, the debate over AI and the government’s role in regulating it is likely to intensify, on both the state and federal levels. As each day seems to bring new advances in AI’s capability and reach, the future is shaping up to be one in which human beings coexist – and hopefully flourish – alongside AI. This new reality has made the American public, both Democrats and Republicans, justifiably nervous, and our polling captures this widespread trepidation.

    Lawmakers and technology leaders alike could address this anxiety by better communicating the pitfalls and potential of AI, and take seriously the concerns of the public. After all, the public is not alone in its trepidation. Many experts in the field also have substantial worries about the future of AI.

    One of the fundamental political questions moving forward, then, will be to what degree regulators put guardrails on this emerging and transformative technology in order to protect Americans from AI’s negative consequences.

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

    – ref. Poll finds bipartisan agreement on a key issue: Regulating AI – https://theconversation.com/poll-finds-bipartisan-agreement-on-a-key-issue-regulating-ai-259780

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Philly’s City Council turned down a new rental inspection program − studies show that might harm tenants’ health

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Gabriel L. Schwartz, Assistant Professor of Health Management and Policy, Drexel University

    Tenants who complain to landlords about housing conditions can risk eviction. Photo Jeff Fusco/The Conversation U.S., CC BY-NC-ND

    As Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker’s US$2 billion housing plan moves forward, heated debates continue about another set of municipal housing proposals that could transform Philadelphia tenants’ rights.

    In June 2025, Philadelphia’s City Council considered three housing bills, collectively known as the Safe Healthy Homes Act. The package was introduced by Nicolas O’Rourke, an at-large council member who belongs to the Working Families Party.

    One of the bills authorized the city to create a fund for tenants to relocate if their buildings are condemned by city inspectors. It was signed into law, though it remains unclear how the fund will be financed.

    The other two bills stalled. One was an ordinance that would broadly strengthen tenants’ rights, and the other – known as the Right to Repairs – would shift how Philadelphia ensures housing is safe for tenants, empowering the city to proactively inspect rentals for housing code violations.

    These bills deal with housing policy, but they’re also matters of public health.

    I know this because I am a researcher in Philadelphia who studies how housing affects our health outcomes. And in particular, recent research by myself and others suggests the fate of the Rights to Repairs legislation could have major implications for Philadelphians’ well-being.

    Housing protections today

    To understand this new evidence, it’s important to first understand the system of housing regulations Philadelphia has now, in the absence of the proposed Right to Repairs legislation.

    When a landlord rents an apartment, Pennsylvania law mandates that apartment must be habitable and free of hazards such as mold, cockroaches and dangerous dilapidation.

    This legal principle is known as the “implied warranty of habitability.”

    All 50 states except Arkansas have some kind of policy like this, though they vary in how much they hold landlords responsible for tenants’ safety.

    Under Pennsylvania’s warranty and related municipal law, if conditions deteriorate in a rental property, Philadelphia tenants are first supposed to alert their landlord, who has 30 days to fix the given violation – such as rodents or lead exposure.

    If landlords refuse, however, tenants are in a bind. They could file a complaint with the Department of Licenses and Inspections, which might come and issue a citation. Tenants could also file a lawsuit against their landlord, and they are entitled to withhold rent. But all of these options risk provoking your landlord – at potentially high cost.

    Invoking your warranty rights as a tenant can therefore be tricky. You have to know your rights, document repair requests in writing, and be willing to take your landlord to task legally.

    That’s challenging in a city like Philadelphia, where most renters – outside of a pilot program in some ZIP codes – aren’t guaranteed lawyers in housing court.

    Indeed, nationally, 9 in 10 landlords have lawyers in housing cases, while 9 in 10 tenants do not.

    The stakes are high for tenants. If they complain, they risk eviction – and that’s amid a shortage of affordable housing in Philadelphia and across the country.

    In 2018 alone, according to a local news investigation, Philadelphia landlords filed over 2,000 eviction cases soon after tenants raised habitability issues, despite such retaliatory evictions being illegal. More up-to-date estimates are hard to come by, as these illegal evictions are not systematically tracked.

    Tenants have little choice. Philadelphia does not require that an apartment pass an inspection before the city issues rental licenses or certificates of rental suitability. If housing violations arise, it’s on tenants to assert and defend their rights.

    Philadelphia City Council member Nicolas O’Rourke introduced a housing legislation package guided by three rights – the right to safety, the right to repairs and the right to relocation. Only the right to relocation bill was passed.
    Lisa Lake for MoveOn via Getty Images

    Do habitability laws work?

    Housing quality protections for tenants, in other words, largely boil down to implied warranties of habitability, plus associated fines the city can issue. But this works only if tenants are able to properly document violations, submit complaints and defend themselves from the blowback.

    Despite warranties forming the backbone of Philadelphia’s housing quality governance system – and concerns that these laws saddle tenants with unreasonable enforcement responsibilities – little is known about whether warranties are even effective. Do they keep tenants from getting sick due to poor housing conditions?

    To find out, fellow researchers and I examined what happened when nine states enacted implied warranty of habitability laws like the one in place in Pennsylvania today. We wanted to know whether renters’ health improved after warranty policies were enacted, compared with other states where such laws didn’t go into effect over the same period.

    We also used homeowners as a control group, comparing whether renters’ health uniquely improved when these laws were enacted. Homeowners are useful here because we wouldn’t expect homeowners’ health to be affected by these laws.

    Our findings were stark: We found no improvements for renters at all, across a slew of housing-related health outcomes, even 10 years after enactment.

    There were no effects on renters’ asthma, respiratory allergies, bronchitis, mental health, hospitalizations, or even less clinical outcomes such as self-rated health.

    To be clear, implied warranties of habitability are important laws and are surely helpful for individual tenants. Broadly speaking, however, our findings suggest that these policies simply don’t work.

    That is likely especially true in Pennsylvania, a state whose implied warranty of habitability was given an F- by researchers who evaluated the comprehensiveness of states’ policies for protecting tenants’ well-being.

    A 2014 study in neighboring New Jersey helps shed light on why these policies fall short.

    Researchers there examined 40,000 eviction cases, looking for whether tenants successfully raised implied warranty of habitability violations as a defense. Given how often landlords retaliate after violation complaints are made, one might expect thousands of tenants party to these lawsuits to have invoked their warranty rights.

    The result? Only 80 tenants did so – 80 out of 40,000.

    In practice, then, existing data paints a bleak picture: The vast majority of tenants lack the financial resources, legal knowledge, alternative housing options or freedom from fear necessary to protect themselves from unsafe conditions at home.

    Proactive rental inspections show more success

    What policies might work instead? Cities such as Rochester, New York, may provide an answer.

    In 2005, Rochester implemented a more proactive rental inspection program to combat their child lead-poisoning crisis – a problem Philadelphia shares.

    This meant that Rochester’s municipal inspectors began proactively inspecting rental units on a regular basis and issuing fines for any violations they found. Tenants did not have to file a complaint and therefore weren’t forced into adversarial disputes with their landlords.

    The results were dramatic. By 2012, childhood lead poisoning in Rochester had dropped by 85%. This decline was nearly 2.5 times faster than the rest of New York state.

    Further, scientists found that units that were inspected every three years had one-third of the rate of housing code violations as units inspected every six years.

    Whether the Right to Repair is good policy for Philadelphia is a question for city legislators. But research is increasingly clear: The city’s current housing policies do not protect tenants from unsafe housing, while proactive rental inspections show real promise for fighting persistent housing-related health problems.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

    Gabriel L. Schwartz’s research described in this article was funded through a pilot grant from the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative. UCSF had no role in the design, completion, or reporting of that study. The views expressed in this article solely represent the scientific opinion of the author, and do not necessarily represent the opinion of either UCSF or his employer.

    – ref. Philly’s City Council turned down a new rental inspection program − studies show that might harm tenants’ health – https://theconversation.com/phillys-city-council-turned-down-a-new-rental-inspection-program-studies-show-that-might-harm-tenants-health-260266

    MIL OSI Analysis –