Category: Economy

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Statement from the International Partners Group on the US Withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition Partnership in South Africa
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

News story

Joint Statement from the International Partners Group on the US Withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition Partnership in South Africa

The United States has informed the Government of South Africa and the International Partners Group of its withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).
The partnership, originally announced at COP 26, aims to support South Africa to move away from coal and to accelerate its transition to a low emission, climate resilient economy.

The US contribution to South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET), as set out in the JET Investment Plan, was $56m in grant funds and $1bn in commercial debt/equity from the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).

While the withdrawal of the US is regrettable, the International Partners Group (IPG) remains fully committed to supporting South Africa to deliver its just energy transition. The level of investment made to date and remaining pledges demonstrate this. Over $2.5bn of the IPG pledge has been spent to date. The total pledged funding to support South Africa’s just energy transition also remains higher than the original pledge due to increases in pledges from both the IPG and other development partners who are not part of the IPG. Some partners are exploring possibilities for supporting work previously being carried out by the US.

We look forward to continuing to work with the government of South Africa and other stakeholders to allocate existing funding in support of a just energy transition that will benefit all South Africans. The political, technical and financial support from the IPG remains strong and steadfast.

On behalf of the International Partners Group – United Kingdom, Germany, France, the European Union, Denmark and the Netherlands.

Further information

overall international pledges is $12.8bn total. This includes over $9bn from IPG and Spain, Switzerland and Canada (excluding Spanish export credits)

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Published 19 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councillors to be asked to approve 2023/24 accounts in final action to clear backlog

Source: St Albans City and District

Publication date: 19 Mar 2025

Councillors are to be asked to approve St Albans City and District Council’s statement of accounts for the 2023/24 financial year.

A decision in favour would bring a welcome end to a backlog of audit approvals which the Council has experienced in common with other local authorities.

The 2023/24 accounts will go before an extraordinary meeting of the Council’s Audit and Governance Committee on Thursday 20 March along with auditor KPMG’s annual report.

Delays in auditing local authority accounts have been acknowledged by the Government as a national problem.

The causes range from staff shortages among external auditors to the adverse impact of the Covid pandemic.

In January, the Committee approved the accounts for the financial years 2020/21, 2021/22 and 2022/23.

This was made possible by recent Government legislation to clear the backlog which allows for auditors to issue a ‘disclaimed opinion,’ neither giving full approval to the accounts or non-approval.

KPMG has given a disclaimed opinion for the 2023/24 accounts as the Council expected.

Councillor Giles Fry, Lead for the Budget and Financial Strategy, said:

I am delighted that the 2023/24 accounts will now go before the Audit and Governance Committee for approval and we have the opportunity to put this backlog issue behind us.

This has been a frustrating period for us and dozens of other local authorities for reasons outside of our control. Our finance team will be able to concentrate on their day-to-day work and the future rather than the past.

I can assure residents that our 2023/24 accounts comply with all laws and regulations and nothing untoward or unexpected has been highlighted.

In its annual report, KPMG has highlighted one issue of concern under its assessment of Value for Money: the Council’s arrangements for achieving financial efficiency and effectiveness.

This is identified as “a risk that the Council does not have in place adequate governance arrangements to ensure compliance with its statutory financial reporting responsibilities”.

The report recommends the Council “should invest in additional resources within the finance team to ensure future compliance with statutory reporting deadlines”.

Cllr Fry said:

While the KPMG report is overwhelmingly positive, we are well aware that we need to add to the overall level of our resources in our finance team and are taking steps to address this issue.

In common with other Councils across the country, we have found there is a shortage of finance staff, especially those with experience of handling major public sector accounts.

Our recruitment team is on the case and will continue to be proactive in searching for suitable staff in what is a very competitive job market.

Despite these difficulties, I am pleased that the auditors could see no risk or weakness associated with our work at improving economy, efficiency and effectiveness. It shows we are meeting the challenge by providing our residents with a financially sound and stable Council.

Media contact: John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727- 819533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: TransUnion Canada Improves Credit Access for Newcomers and Young Canadians with New Credit Risk Score
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- TransUnion’s new TruVision Trended Risk Score expands lenders’ insights into consumers who may not otherwise be scoreable, helping increase financial inclusion.
- The solution is Canada’s only credit score offering built using post-pandemic consumer data, with a view into borrowing and payment behaviour, calculated from more than 100 proprietary variables.
TORONTO, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransUnion® (NYSE:TRU) Canada is helping expand credit access for new Canadians and those new to the credit market by providing a broader and more comprehensive view of a person’s payment behaviour and creditworthiness with TruVision® Trended Risk Score. The TruVision Trended Risk Score leverages new algorithms and attributes that provide deeper insights on consumers, utilizing data that captures how consumer credit spending and payment patterns have evolved since the pandemic. For New-to-Credit (NTC)¹ consumers, TruVision Trended Risk Score leverages the power of signals early in their credit tenure to better predict future risk, giving lenders the insights they need to more confidently offer credit and grow with new consumers.

“New Canadians and young consumers represent a significant portion of Canada’s population and economic power. They are actively working to build their credit profile and access to credit. With TruVision Trended Risk Score, consumers will be able to build their credit profile quicker and gain access to more credit opportunities,” said Juan Sebastian D’Achiardi, regional president of TransUnion Canada. “By offering lenders a more holistic view of consumers, they will now have better access to behavioural insights and information, increasing their ability to more confidently offer a wider range of products and services.”

According to Statistics Canada, international migration, including permanent and temporary immigration, continues to drive population growth in Canada, accounting for 92% of all growth in the third quarter of 2024². In 2024, NTC consumers accounted for 28% of new credit cards opened, and 22% of all credit products opened, with new to Canada consumers estimated to account for more than half of that volume.

Gen Z Canadians, born between 1997 and 2012, remain the fastest growing segment in credit card usage, with an 18% year-over-year (YoY) growth rate in balances, compared to a 4% YoY growth rate among other generations. Gen Z consumers have accumulated $142 billion in overall credit balances as of December 2024, representing a 29.5% YoY increase, significantly outpacing the overall 4.5% balance growth rate.

While this generation represents a tremendous growth opportunity for lenders, these consumers exhibit higher risk, with a 0.57% delinquency rate (90 days or more days past due), compared to an average of 0.28% across other generations as of Q4 2024. Lenders can still turn to this generation to increase lending and grow by employing effective tools for credit decisioning to manage risk effectively.

“While navigating an uncertain macroeconomic environment and turbulent market conditions, lenders can now modernize their credit strategies and more confidently grow their portfolios by extending credit to young Canadians, new immigrants, and other Canadians seeking to expand their credit portfolio,” said Pamela Dodaro, chief product officer at TransUnion Canada. “Those that explore innovative ways to monitor rapid changes in consumers’ financial health will be better positioned to capture new and growing consumer segments.”

About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries, including Canada, where we’re the credit bureau of choice for the financial services ecosystem and most of Canada’s largest banks. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this by providing an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care.

Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

For more information visit: www.transunion.ca

For more information or to request an interview, contact:

Contact: Katie Duffy
E-mail: katie.duffy@ketchum.com
Telephone: +1 647-772-0969

¹ A New-to-Credit consumer has no prior history on their credit file.
² Statistics Canada, The Daily — Canada’s population estimates, third quarter 2024, 2024-12-17. This does not constitute an endorsement by Statistics Canada of this product.

The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Energy CEOs to Canadian leaders: An urgent plan to strengthen economic sovereignty
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- CEOs representing Canada’s energy industry released a letter to Canadian federal political leaders outlining an urgent action plan to strengthen Canadian economic sovereignty, through our energy industry.
- The open letter calls for a rapid, dramatic regulatory restructuring to enable investment in critical oil and natural gas infrastructure across Canada.
OTTAWA, Ontario, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — This morning, an open letter from 14 CEOs representing the four largest pipeline companies and 10 largest oil and natural gas companies was delivered to Canada’s political party leaders. This is in answer to inquiries on how Canada can respond to escalating global energy security challenges and the urgent need for pragmatic energy strategies.

To read the full letter and view the signatories, please visit: http://www.tcenergy.com/open-letter-to-party-leaders

Build Canada Now

“It’s time for Canadians to claim our economic sovereignty. In recent months, each of us have been asked what needs to happen to ensure Canada has control over its economic destiny, and what we can do to make sure we have full access to global markets and trade. We are saying it’s time to roll up our sleeves as a country, and build needed energy structure,” says Adam Waterous, Executive Chairman, Strathcona Resources Ltd.

“Canadians now recognize the need for us to grow our energy sector and build energy infrastructure, including new oil and natural gas pipelines, and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export terminals. They want a country-wide push to champion our products and pipelines, and to unleash the potential of our natural resources. Everyone wants our country to continue to prosper and our export-focused economy to grow,” he adds.

Canada has vast reserves of oil and natural gas, and credible forecasts predict they will remain amongst the world’s largest sources of energy for decades to come. Canada can provide for its own domestic needs, while also exporting around the world. The country can be a leader in global energy security by being a provider of affordable, lower emission, democratically and responsibly produced energy. Canada can compete against any major global energy producer.

“Realizing Canada’s opportunity will take collaboration between industry, government and Canadians. Today, the federal government does not have the right policies, or the regulatory framework to support oil and natural gas investment. Delays in permitting processes for critical infrastructure often results in billions in lost economic opportunities for Canadians. It’s time for change. These are barriers we have imposed on ourselves that need to be removed, now,” says François Poirier, President and Chief Executive Officer, TC Energy.

An action plan for Canadian leaders

The letter outlines a clear plan with five calls for action. For the oil and natural gas sector to expand and for energy infrastructure to be built, Canada’s federal political leaders need to:
- Simplify regulation. The federal government’s Impact Assessment Act and West Coast tanker ban are impeding development and need to be overhauled and simplified. Regulatory processes need to be streamlined, and decisions need to withstand judicial challenges.
- Commit to firm deadlines for project approvals. The federal government needs to reduce regulatory timelines so that major projects are approved within 6 months of application.
- Grow production. The federal government’s unlegislated cap on emissions must be eliminated to allow the sector to reach its full potential.
- Attract investment. The federal carbon levy on large emitters is not globally cost competitive and should be repealed to allow provincial governments to set more suitable carbon regulations.
- Incent Indigenous co-investment opportunities. The federal government needs to provide Indigenous loan guarantees at scale so industry may create infrastructure ownership opportunities to increase prosperity for communities and to ensure that Indigenous communities benefit from development.
All CEO signatories of the letter are ready and willing to engage so that energy projects move forward promptly, and construction of critical infrastructure can begin for the benefit of Canada and all Canadians.

-30-

Media Inquiries:
Media Relations
media@tcenergy.com
403-920-7859 or 800-608-7859

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1a4b87ee-4ff8-454a-a69b-bc80d7485bcf

PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/cdb8d38d-0f01-4259-ab70-aafa5e1cae4c

The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: WOO X introduces Futures Credits to help users manage surging BTC volatility

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WOO X has introduced Futures Credits, a new feature that allows traders to use USDT-denominated vouchers as collateral for futures trading. Futures Credits provide additional margin, help cover losses, and can offset trading and funding fees, while any profits remain withdrawable.

“With trade tensions and economic uncertainty fueling market swings, our newly launched WOO X Futures Credits provide traders with a crucial buffer—helping manage risk while staying flexible to seize opportunities. To be sure, Bitcoin’s volatility has surged, plunging nearly 25% from its $109,071 peak, causing many investors to realize significant losses. The spent output profit ratio has also dropped to its lowest in over a year, signaling widespread losses,” said Ben Yorke, VP of WOO Ecosystem.

WOO X Futures Credits offer several key benefits, including the ability to increase your position size by providing additional margin. They also help with risk mitigation by covering a percentage of your losses, while offering flexibility to apply credits to any trades without restrictions. Best of all, you can retain the profits from successful trades.

Earn a share of $30K in Futures Credits with KYC verification!

Experience using WOO X Futures Credits. New users who complete KYC verification between March 19 to April 1, 2025, will receive $30 in Futures Credits. A total of $30,000 in Futures Credits is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Don’t miss out—get started and claim your WOO X Futures Credits today!

About WOO X

WOO X is a global centralized crypto futures and spot trading platform offering the best-in-class liquidity and price execution. WOO X has achieved a daily volume exceeding $1.6 billion and is home to hundreds of thousands of traders worldwide. WOO X traders benefit from radical transparency through our industry-first live Proof of Reserves & liabilities dashboard and the company’s mission to maintain the trust of its growing community of traders.

To learn more about WOO X, download our app or visit our WOO X

Contact: media@woo.network, paolo@woo.network

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal advice or professional advice of any kind. While we have made every effort to ensure that the information contained herein is accurate and up-to-date, we make no guarantees as to its completeness or accuracy. The content is based on information available at the time of writing and may be subject to change.

Please note that this article includes references to third-party websites and data, which are provided solely for convenience and informational purposes. We do not endorse or assume any responsibility for the content, accuracy, or reliability of any information, products, or services offered by third parties.

Cryptocurrency trading and futures trading involve significant risk and may not be suitable for all investors. The value of digital currencies can be extremely volatile, and you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite before participating in any staking or investment activities.

We strongly recommend that you seek independent advice from a qualified professional before making any investment or financial decisions related to cryptocurrencies or staking. We shall in NO case be liable for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of or reliance on the information contained in this article.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8c6f9973-7c37-48d5-b34e-d7da262b75ac

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: The Ultimate Game Changers: Gate.io Joins Forces with Oracle Red Bull Racing in F1 to Usher in a New Era of Speed
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PANAMA CITY, Panama, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a world where extreme speed meets cutting-edge technology, only true game changers can maintain their lead. Recently, Gate.io officially announced its sponsorship of Oracle Red Bull Racing in F1, sparking widespread market attention and discussion. Whether it’s the eight-time championship-winning Red Bull Racing team in F1, or Gate.io, a Web3 pioneer driving industry transformation through innovation, both share the same relentless pursuit of excellence—pushing limits and continuously evolving to dominate their respective arenas.

As the 2025 F1 season approaches, Gate.io and Oracle Red Bull Racing will join forces to drive innovation through technology, define the future through speed, and create a legacy worthy of game changers.

Technology-Driven Excellence: The Relentless Pursuit of Game Changers

In both the crypto market and F1, speed, precision, and innovation determine victory. The partnership between Gate.io and Oracle Red Bull Racing is more than just a branding collaboration—it is the convergence of two industry leaders who share a deep-rooted competitive spirit.
- Leading with Speed: While Oracle Red Bull Racing team in F1 pushes the boundaries of aerodynamics, Gate.io builds its competitive edge through trading speed. In 2024, Gate.io launched 873 new tokens, including 437 first-listings worldwide, continuously accelerating industry innovation and helping users capture market opportunities.
- Winning with Precision: Just as Oracle Red Bull Racing fine-tunes its race strategy through data analytics, Gate.io optimizes every trade with intelligent order matching and advanced algorithms, ensuring transactions are executed at the best possible price, giving users an edge in volatile markets.
- Global Influence: With over 500 million F1 fans worldwide, and Gate.io’s user base surpassing 21 million and growing, this partnership strengthens the global presence of both game changers, extending their reach into new markets.
Branding Momentum Transition: A Strategic Expansion for the Future

Gate.io’s sponsorship of Oracle Red Bull Racing is more than just a branding opportunity—it’s a strategic global expansion plan.
- Targeted Engagement: This partnership is not just about exposure; it’s about reaching the right audience. F1’s global fanbase includes high-net-worth individuals, tech enthusiasts, and finance professionals—key demographics for the crypto industry. Through this collaboration, Gate.io aims to bridge the gap between traditional investors and the future of digital finance.
- Alliance of Champions: Just as Oracle Red Bull Racing dominates F1, Gate.io is a pioneer in crypto space. As one of the longest-standing exchanges, Gate.io continues to lead through technological innovation, security, and market leadership. This partnership is more than just brand exposure—it’s a union of two elite forces.
- Brand Influence: Gate.io’s branding will be featured on Oracle Red Bull Racing’s rear wing, nose, headrests, wheel covers, and even on the helmet of four-time World Champion, Max Verstappen. This symbolizes Gate.io’s strength as an industry leader and reinforces its commitment to innovation and excellence on a global stage.
In the race for market leadership, Gate.io is accelerating with precision and vision, steering toward a broader and more influential future.

Digital Acceleration: Breaking Barriers to Stay Ahead

Like the F1 circuit, the digital asset industry is a battlefield where every second defines the future. In this post-CEX era, Gate.io is not just witnessing the evolution of industry. It is actively driving it forward, redefining industry standards through technological breakthroughs and strategic brand expansion.
- Industry Leader: In January 2025, Gate.io’s total reserves surpassed $10.328 billion, ranking fourth globally. The exchange continues to enhance security frameworks and risk management systems, ensuring a stable and trustworthy trading environment.
- Brand Accelerator: By integrating blockchain technology with mainstream culture, Gate.io is reshaping public perceptions of crypto. In February 2025, Gate.io sponsored the Token of Love Music Festival, bridging the gap between blockchain technology and global pop culture, drawing Web3 enthusiasts worldwide and broadcasting the creativity and vitality of the crypto industry to the global audience.
- Value Creator: Gate.io recently completed its Q4 2024 GT token burn, bringing the total burned supply to 177 million GT, reinforcing its commitment to the long-term value of its platform token. With GT surging over 300% in 2024, Gate.io once again proved its strategic foresight in the market.
- Meme Ecosystem Pioneer: Through its Pilot Section and MemeBox, Gate.io is actively fostering the explosive growth of the Meme ecosystem, helping users capitalize on emerging market trends in real-time.
In F1, only those who relentlessly optimize their technology and strategy can stay ahead. In crypto, only those who continuously innovate can remain dominant across market cycles. Gate.io understands this fundamental truth—and with over 12 years of technical expertise, it has solidified its position as a long-term leader.

Game Changers Never Stop
The F1 race never slows down, and neither does Gate.io’s evolution.As Oracle Red Bull Racing’s cars cut through the air, breaking limits to cross the finish line, and as Gate.io accelerates through market fluctuations to achieve new milestones, both are driven by the same belief: “Only game changers can shape the future.”

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

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

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Gate.io. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/51df6377-d9d4-4ede-ba67-8c9b8258d02a

The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: PrimeXBT Introduces Cashback as a New Way to Redeem Rewards

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CASTRIES, Saint Lucia, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PrimeXBT, a regulated global multi-asset broker, has introduced a new benefit to its Rewards Center in the form of cashback. Clients can now get back up to 20% of their trading fees and CFD spreads, with the amount being credited directly to their USDT or USD wallets (T&Cs apply). With this update, the broker aims to provide even more value for traders, who can now convert their rewards into real, usable funds, helping offset trading costs.

Traders can claim cashback on any trades made from 18 February onwards. The amount available depends on their Rewards Center balance at the time of redemption. For example, if a client has paid 100 USDT in fees, they would be eligible for 20 USDT cashback. However, if the client’s Reward Center balance was below 20 USDT, they would only be able to redeem an amount equal to their balance.

“At PrimeXBT, we’ve always focused on putting our clients’ needs first. We’re committed to consistently providing them with added value through innovations like our Rewards Center. With the introduction of cashback, traders have a new way to redeem rewards, providing them with added flexibility and the ability to optimise their trading strategies,” a PrimeXBT spokesperson said.

The Rewards Centre is designed to provide traders with valuable incentives that can be used for trading. By completing Trader Tasks, participating in Trade & Earn campaigns, and claiming the Welcome Bonus users can earn up to $6100 in rewards which can be converted into Cashback or redeemed as a Deposit Bonus to increase trading balance by up to 20%, giving them additional funds to trade with. This reward model not only enhances trading opportunities but also encourages traders to develop their skills and market knowledge, creating a more engaging and rewarding trading experience.

As traders and investors continue searching for the best trading conditions, PrimeXBT stands out for its trader-first approach. Innovative products like its Rewards Center and the recent introduction of Cashback prove the broker’s dedication to giving clients more for less. With such a strong focus on traders’ needs, PrimeXBT continues to offer one of the most rewarding trading experiences available.

To learn more users can visit PrimeXBT

Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as personal investment advice and does not constitute a solicitation or invitation to engage in any financial transactions, investments, or related activities. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. The financial products offered by the Company are complex and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Before engaging, you should consider whether you understand how these leveraged products work and whether you can afford the high risk of losing your money. The Company does not accept clients from the Restricted Jurisdictions as indicated on its website. Some services or products may not be available in your jurisdiction.

Contact

PrimeXBT
pr@primexbt.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7d53f74d-0e0f-433f-96db-5a8177925741

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025

MIL-OSI: BlackRock® Canada Announces March Cash Distributions for the iShares® ETFs

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited (“BlackRock Canada”), an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE: BLK), today announced the March 2025 cash distributions for the iShares ETFs listed on the TSX or Cboe Canada, which pay on a monthly or quarterly basis. Unitholders of record of the applicable iShares ETF on March 26, 2025, will receive cash distributions payable in respect of that iShares ETF on March 31, 2025.

Details regarding the “per unit” distribution amounts are as follows:

Fund Name	Fund Ticker	Cash Distribution Per Unit
iShares 1-10 Year Laddered Corporate Bond Index ETF	CBH	$0.049
iShares 1-5 Year Laddered Corporate Bond Index ETF	CBO	$0.051
iShares S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index ETF	CDZ	$0.112
iShares Equal Weight Banc & Lifeco ETF	CEW	$0.059
iShares Global Real Estate Index ETF	CGR	$0.158
iShares International Fundamental Index ETF	CIE	$0.077
iShares Global Infrastructure Index ETF	CIF	$0.238
iShares 1-5 Year Laddered Government Bond Index ETF	CLF	$0.032
iShares 1-10 Year Laddered Government Bond Index ETF	CLG	$0.037
iShares US Fundamental Index ETF	CLU	$0.173
iShares US Fundamental Index ETF	CLU.C	$0.222
iShares S&P/TSX Canadian Preferred Share Index ETF	CPD	$0.058
iShares Canadian Fundamental Index ETF	CRQ	$0.181
iShares US Dividend Growers Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	CUD	$0.079
iShares Convertible Bond Index ETF	CVD	$0.071
iShares Global Water Index ETF	CWW	$0.069
iShares Global Monthly Dividend Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	CYH	$0.080
iShares Canadian Financial Monthly Income ETF	FIE	$0.040
iShares ESG Balanced ETF Portfolio	GBAL	$0.219
iShares ESG Conservative Balanced ETF Portfolio	GCNS	$0.229
iShares ESG Equity ETF Portfolio	GEQT	$0.166
iShares ESG Growth ETF Portfolio	GGRO	$0.193
iShares U.S. Aggregate Bond Index ETF	XAGG	$0.105
iShares U.S. Aggregate Bond Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XAGG.U	$0.061
iShares U.S. Aggregate Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XAGH	$0.091
iShares Core Balanced ETF Portfolio	XBAL	$0.153
iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF	XBB	$0.079
iShares Core Canadian Corporate Bond Index ETF	XCB	$0.069
iShares ESG Advanced Canadian Corporate Bond Index ETF	XCBG	$0.119
iShares U.S. IG Corporate Bond Index ETF	XCBU	$0.121
iShares U.S. IG Corporate Bond Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XCBU.U	$0.076
iShares Canadian Growth Index ETF	XCG	$0.071
iShares Core Conservative Balanced ETF Portfolio	XCNS	$0.135
iShares S&P/TSX SmallCap Index ETF	XCS	$0.119
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI Canada Index ETF	XCSR	$0.442
iShares Canadian Value Index ETF	XCV	$0.373
iShares Core MSCI Global Quality Dividend Index ETF	XDG	$0.061
iShares Core MSCI Global Quality Dividend Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XDG.U	$0.042
iShares Core MSCI Global Quality Dividend Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XDGH	$0.060
iShares Core MSCI Canadian Quality Dividend Index ETF	XDIV	$0.115
iShares Core MSCI US Quality Dividend Index ETF	XDU	$0.064
iShares Core MSCI US Quality Dividend Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XDU.U	$0.044
iShares Core MSCI US Quality Dividend Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XDUH	$0.059
iShares Canadian Select Dividend Index ETF	XDV	$0.114
iShares J.P. Morgan USD Emerging Markets Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XEB	$0.057
iShares S&P/TSX Capped Energy Index ETF	XEG	$0.133
iShares S&P/TSX Composite High Dividend Index ETF	XEI	$0.111
iShares Jantzi Social Index ETF	XEN	$0.219
iShares Core Equity ETF Portfolio	XEQT	$0.090
iShares ESG Aware MSCI Canada Index ETF	XESG	$0.189
iShares Core Canadian 15+ Year Federal Bond Index ETF	XFLB	$0.111
iShares Flexible Monthly Income ETF	XFLI	$0.194
iShares Flexible Monthly Income ETF⁽¹⁾	XFLI.U	$0.135
iShares Flexible Monthly Income ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XFLX	$0.180
iShares S&P/TSX Capped Financials Index ETF	XFN	$0.140
iShares Floating Rate Index ETF	XFR	$0.063
iShares Core Canadian Government Bond Index ETF	XGB	$0.049
iShares Global Government Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XGGB	$0.040
iShares Core Growth ETF Portfolio	XGRO	$0.111
iShares Canadian HYBrid Corporate Bond Index ETF	XHB	$0.073
iShares U.S. High Dividend Equity Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XHD	$0.083
iShares U.S. High Dividend Equity Index ETF	XHU	$0.080
iShares U.S. High Yield Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XHY	$0.084
iShares Core S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF	XIC	$0.273
iShares U.S. IG Corporate Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XIG	$0.070
iShares 1-5 Year U.S. IG Corporate Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XIGS	$0.122
iShares Core Income Balanced ETF Portfolio	XINC	$0.133
iShares Core Canadian Long Term Bond Index ETF	XLB	$0.062
iShares S&P/TSX Capped Materials Index ETF	XMA	$0.043
iShares S&P/TSX Completion Index ETF	XMD	$0.169
iShares MSCI Min Vol USA Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XMS	$0.102
iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor Index ETF	XMTM	$0.070
iShares MSCI Min Vol USA Index ETF	XMU	$0.242
iShares MSCI Min Vol USA Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XMU.U	$0.168
iShares MSCI Min Vol Canada Index ETF	XMV	$0.298
iShares S&P/TSX North American Preferred Stock Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XPF	$0.071
iShares High Quality Canadian Bond Index ETF	XQB	$0.053
iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor Index ETF	XQLT	$0.058
iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index ETF	XRE	$0.065
iShares ESG Aware Canadian Aggregate Bond Index ETF	XSAB	$0.047
iShares Core Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF	XSB	$0.071
iShares Conservative Short Term Strategic Fixed Income ETF	XSC	$0.057
iShares Conservative Strategic Fixed Income ETF	XSE	$0.052
iShares Core Canadian Short Term Corporate Bond Index ETF	XSH	$0.060
iShares ESG Advanced 1-5 Year Canadian Corporate Bond Index ETF	XSHG	$0.119
iShares 1-5 Year U.S. IG Corporate Bond Index ETF	XSHU	$0.127
iShares 1-5 Year U.S. IG Corporate Bond Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XSHU.U	$0.080
iShares Short Term Strategic Fixed Income ETF	XSI	$0.061
iShares S&P/TSX Capped Consumer Staples Index ETF	XST	$0.130
iShares ESG Aware Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF	XSTB	$0.047
iShares 0-5 Year TIPS Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XSTH	$0.037
iShares 0-5 Year TIPS Bond Index ETF	XSTP	$0.042
iShares 0-5 Year TIPS Bond Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XSTP.U	$0.029
iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA Index ETF	XSUS	$0.088
iShares 20+ Year U.S. Treasury Bond Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XTLH	$0.117
iShares 20+ Year U.S. Treasury Bond Index ETF	XTLT	$0.125
iShares 20+ Year U.S. Treasury Bond Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XTLT.U	$0.087
iShares Diversified Monthly Income ETF	XTR	$0.040
iShares Core S&P U.S. Total Market Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XUH	$0.108
iShares S&P U.S. Financials Index ETF	XUSF	$0.160
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI USA Index ETF	XUSR	$0.174
iShares S&P/TSX Capped Utilities Index ETF	XUT	$0.090
iShares Core S&P U.S. Total Market Index ETF	XUU	$0.142
iShares Core S&P U.S. Total Market Index ETF⁽¹⁾	XUU.U	$0.099
iShares MSCI USA Value Factor Index ETF	XVLU	$0.148

⁽¹⁾ Distribution per unit amounts are in U.S. dollars for XAGG.U, XCBU.U, XDG.U, XDU.U, XFLI.U, XMU.U, XSHU.U, XSTP.U, XTLT.U, XUU.U

Estimated March Cash Distributions for the iShares Premium Money Market ETF

The March cash distributions per unit for the iShares Premium Money Market ETF are estimated to be as follows:

Fund Name	Fund Ticker	Estimated Cash Distribution Per Unit
iShares Premium Money Market ETF	CMR	$0.121

BlackRock Canada expects to issue a press release on or about March 25, 2025, which will provide the final amounts for the iShares Premium Money Market ETF.

Further information on the iShares Funds can be found at http://www.blackrock.com/ca.

About BlackRock

BlackRock’s purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate | Twitter: @BlackRockCA

About iShares ETFs

iShares unlocks opportunity across markets to meet the evolving needs of investors. With more than twenty years of experience, a global line-up of 1500+ exchange traded funds (ETFs) and US$4.2 trillion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024, iShares continues to drive progress for the financial industry. iShares funds are powered by the expert portfolio and risk management of BlackRock.

iShares^® ETFs are managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investing in iShares ETFs. Please read the relevant prospectus before investing. The funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional.

Standard & Poor’s® and S&P® are registered trademarks of Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”). Dow Jones is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC (“Dow Jones”). TSX is a registered trademark of TSX Inc. (“TSX”). All of the foregoing trademarks have been licensed to S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and sublicensed for certain purposes to BlackRock Fund Advisors (“BFA”), which in turn has sub-licensed these marks to its affiliate, BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited (“BlackRock Canada”), on behalf of the applicable fund(s). The index is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC, and has been licensed for use by BFA and by extension, BlackRock Canada and the applicable fund(s). The funds are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC, Dow Jones, S&P, any of their respective affiliates (collectively known as “S&P Dow Jones Indices”) or TSX, or any of their respective affiliates. Neither S&P Dow Jones Indices nor TSX make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in such funds.

MSCI is a trademark of MSCI, Inc. (“MSCI”). The ETF is permitted to use the MSCI mark pursuant to a license agreement between MSCI and BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A., relating to, among other things, the license granted to BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. to use the Index. BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, N.A. has sublicensed the use of this trademark to BlackRock. The ETF is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by MSCI and MSCI makes no representation, condition or warranty regarding the advisability of investing in the ETF.

Contact for Media:
Sydney Punchard
Email: Sydney.Punchard@blackrock.com

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025

MIL-OSI: MEXC Launches DEX+: One-Stop Platform For Seamless On-Chain and Off-Chain Trading

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, announced the launch of DEX+, the market’s first innovative CEX and DEX hybrid product that provides a seamless, one-stop experience for both on-chain and off-chain trading. This development marks a significant milestone in the evolution of hybrid crypto trading platforms. DEX+ allows users to trade directly on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) through the MEXC app and website, offering access to a wide range of on-chain assets. The initial version of DEX+ will support the Solana ecosystem, enabling users to trade over 10,000 tokens available on Raydium and pump.fun, with future expansion to additional DEXs and blockchain networks, with support for the BSC chain launching on March 26, allowing users to trade trending assets on BSC soon.

DEX+ stands out by addressing many of the common pain points faced by users on traditional DEX platforms. Conventional DEX interfaces require users to navigate multi-step interactions with complex on-chain processes such as token approvals, transaction signings, and cryptocurrency swaps. MEXC’s DEX+ simplifies this process entirely. Users can transfer funds directly into their DEX+ account and execute buy and sell orders without dealing with intricate on-chain operations. This approach makes decentralized trading more accessible, especially for new crypto users.

“MEXC’s DEX+ bridges the gap between centralized efficiency and decentralized freedom. Despite the growing popularity of DEXs, the lack of user-friendly interfaces and high transaction fees remain a significant hindrance to widespread adoption. Through DEX+, MEXC aims to solve these issues by providing a familiar, CEX-like trading experience while retaining the benefits of accessing on-chain assets. Users can seamlessly switch between centralized exchange and DEX+ features,” said Tracy Jin, COO of MEXC.

MEXC is dedicated to offering a diverse range of accessible assets through its listing strategy and innovative products, all while ensuring top-tier security for its users. MEXC delivers comprehensive custodial wallet management for DEX+ users, ensuring security at an institutional level. Additionally, the platform offers Proof of Reserves, ensuring asset integrity and exceptional transparency. Users’ assets are backed 1:1, and customer fund compensation requirements are fully covered. This dual-layer protection ensures unmatched security for user assets.

Furthermore, MEXC announced its collaboration with GoPlus, an independent third-party security provider that inspects the safety of all trading pairs listed on the platform. This added measure boosts user confidence and transparency, allowing them to trade with greater assurance and peace of mind.

Moving forward, MEXC’s DEX+ is expected to play a pivotal role in the continued growth of DeFi and DEX ecosystems. As more users transition toward decentralized trading platforms, integrating CEX and DEX models will become increasingly important. With DEX+, MEXC strives to stand at the forefront of this innovative trend.

To celebrate the successful launch of DEX+, MEXC is pleased to announce its incentive program: new users completing trades of 100 USDT or more on the DEX+ platform will be eligible to receive a 20 USDT reward. For more details, please visit: https://www.mexc.com/dex-rewards.

About MEXC

Founded in 2018, MEXC is dedicated to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Known for its extensive selection of trending tokens, airdrop opportunities, and low fees, MEXC serves over 34 million users across 170+ countries. With a focus on accessibility and efficiency, our advanced trading platform appeals to both new traders and seasoned investors alike. MEXC provides a seamless, secure, and rewarding gateway to the world of digital assets.

For more information, visit: MEXC Website｜X｜Telegram｜How to Sign Up on MEXC
For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR Manager Lucia Hu: lucia.hu@mexc.com

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MEXC. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a38849c-6875-4997-9c07-705dcab201f4

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth interview on ABC Adelaide

Source: Ministers for Social Services

19 March 2025

E&OE TRANSCRIPT

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ, HOST:    Well, if you are really struggling to pay for some of the basics, maybe your fridge has stopped working or you need a new one, or you’re struggling to pay medical bills. A new no interest loan program has been launched by the Federal Government. It’ll be run by Good Shepherd Australia, giving interest free loans, loans of up to $2,000. Amanda Rishworth is the Minister for Social Services and is with us this afternoon. Minister, thank you for your time.

AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES AND THE NDIS:    Great to be with you.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    What does it say about our community that a service like this is needed and seems to be facing a lot of demand?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    This program has been going on for some time. In fact, the partnership between Good Shepherd and the NAB has been around for 20 years or so. But what the Federal Government’s saying is we think have a role to play as well. Of course, for a whole lot of unexpected reasons, people might find that their car breaks down or their fridge stops working. And rather than turn to typically buy now and pay later, which can get people into a bit of financial trouble or indeed payday loans, this is a really important alternative that is available to people. But more importantly than just the no interest loan, it also connects people up with financial counselling and other support they might need as well.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    So, why do you feel like the Government has needed to step in? What hasn’t been working if this scheme’s been going along for 20 years?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    Well, we’ve supported this scheme since 2009. We’ve been trialling first the NILS scheme and now we also trialled NILS for Vehicles, which is no interest loans for vehicles. And really the funding agreements were coming up for reassessment. We see a huge benefit in this and that’s why we have committed for five years of funding this program. So, what our funding goes to is supporting Good Shepherd do the casework that they need to do to support a person, whereas the NAB provides the loan directly. But people do need support and it was wonderful to hear some stories today. But what we’re committing to is $50 million to this program over the next five years to give it some certainty.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    And so it’s open to individuals who earn less than $70,000 a year. $100,000 for a couple or person with dependants is part of the challenge that, you know, maybe not that long ago $100,000 used to be seen as a liveable household wage, but wages have not been rising anywhere near inflation.

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    Firstly, I’d say what the funding is for is to help with those unexpected items. People do have to demonstrate that they can pay this back, but rather than go and, for example, get a loan from a payday lender. I heard one example today where the car loan was going to have 36 per cent interest on it. So, that obviously would put the individual into a real crisis point. So, that’s where these loans come in. So, it really is looking for people that might need this extra support for the loans, the ordinary loans for sort of household goods, the maximum is $3,000. For vehicles, it’s $5,000. So, we’re talking about a small loan. The impact it’s had on some of the people I spoke to today has been life changing.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    How many people are in crisis?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    In terms of how many people have applied for these loans, there’s about, in total, 37,000 people in the last financial year that applied for these loans. So, these people are looking for extra support. Of course, there’s other people in crisis that are not looking for loans. They might be looking for emergency relief. We’ve obviously got a range of different other supports. For example, if someone’s leaving a violent relationship, this may not be the option for them. It might actually be the Escaping Violence Payment, which gives people $5,000 to set up a new home. So, there are different programs for different people, but this one in particular provides approximately 35,000 loans in a year.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    It is 28 past five. 891. ABC Radio, Adelaide. Nikolai Beilharz’s with you for Drive. Also with you, Amanda Rishworth, the Minister for Social Services, is also the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Yesterday we were talking about some articles that have been published online, including in the Australian Financial Review, which said that National Cabinet was going to move support services for children with mild autism and early developmental challenges back to the state and territory level and that services would be provided through schools, childcare centres and other government settings. Just quickly, a couple of issues there, starting with the shift of responsibility to schools, early childhood centres and the like. Can you confirm that responsibility is shifting?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    No, that’s not correct. I need to dispel that myth completely. What was agreed to at National Cabinet was making sure, and this was recommended in the NDIS Review, that there would be extra supports for people that may not need an individualised NDIS plan but still have needed some support in terms of their developmental trajectory. They were what the NDIS Review called foundational supports and they were disability specific supports. The locations of where they would be delivered are still being negotiated between the Commonwealth and the states and territories. There was a commitment of 50/50 funding from both the Commonwealth and the states and territories, but it was not about taking people and reducing access to the scheme. What it was is identifying that there are a group of children that are not getting the support now. And we needed to build that support up, but it is not being foisted onto schools or other places. The concept of foundational supports is being still worked up with states and territories to identify the best locations, deliver them.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    Is the reality though that schools’ early childhood care centres will need to put on some extra additional form of support though if responsibility is moved to them?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    Well, the responsibility is not going to be moved to them. What it was identified that these could be locations in which perhaps allied health could deliver support. So, I need to be clear, the responsibility is not being put onto schools or childcare centres. What we were talking about when it came to foundational support was making sure that perhaps they were the right settings to deliver these supports in. Now that doesn’t say that schools and other early childhood settings shouldn’t be looking at how they move to more inclusive education. That’s something that is in Australia’s Disability Strategy and something that we continue to work towards. But certainly it was never envisaged that schools and early childhood settings would have to take on this responsibility. The delivery of foundational support is being currently worked on between the states and territories about how best to deliver. But there is still access through the NDIS for those with developmental delay or that need early intervention. That they are the early intervention and developmental delay pathway. Where we were talking about foundational supports is where those supports might be better delivered outside the NDIS or indeed for children that are not being able to access those supports at the moment.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    OK, and just very quickly, the use of the term mild autism, should that have been included?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:   Look, I’m not using that term. Everyone is individually assessed. But what we know is, for example, and I’ll give an example here, is that with putting the right support around a child very early on can actually, and this has been demonstrated through the Inklings program which we are jointly funding with the South Australian Government, putting the right parenting supports in place for a child might mean they don’t get a diagnosis of autism later on because they are on a strong developmental trajectory. So, for me it is about making sure that people are getting the right supports where they need it, when they need it. For some children, individualised clinical supports might not be the right answer. It might be another type of supports.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    OK Minister, just before you go back to the cost of living side of things, we heard from Linda who rang into Rory McLaren on 891 Mornings. This morning, here’s a bit of what she had to say.

Audio of interview:

Linda: I’ve never been so insulted by a government giving a pensioner $4.60 a fortnight pay increase, saying it will give us a boost. And I am beyond anger, frustration, being insulted. How dare they think that $4.60 a fortnight is going to change my life? It’s appalling.

Rory McLaren: Are you by yourself, Linda?

Linda: I am. I live alone and I’m in a retirement village which I put all the money I had in the world in and it was great and I love it. My motor insurance has gone up 30 per cent. My health insurance gone up about 15 per cent. Everything I go, I ring around, I use a spreadsheet. I’m the best budgeter that you will ever know with what I do with that pension. And then I get the biggest insult and kick in the teeth by a government thinks that $4.60 a fortnight is going to help just beyond anger. There’s so many people I’ve spoken to who are in the same boat, they are devastated. I want to look at Albanese in the eyes and tell, ask him, what am I going to do with that $4.60, Anthony, what am I going to do with it?

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    Amanda Rishworth, what would you say to Linda?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:    I understand that a lot of people are doing it tough. What I would also say is the way that the indexation is applied to the pension has not changed. There’s a formula that gets applied twice a year and over the last, since we were elected, that formula has delivered about a 16 per cent increase in the pension. It’s based on basically a better off over all three tests. So, there’s three different measures and the best one is applied. So, this has been the same way that indexation has been applied since 2000 and 2009.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    Does that need to change, though?

AMANDA RISHWORTH:   Well, it has been set in a way twice a year, it takes the best of three tests. But I would say what our Government has also been doing is looking at other ways we can help pensioners. For example, the cost of the PBS for concession cardholders has been frozen for three years. Sorry, for five years at $7.70. There’s been energy bill relief of $300 for households over the last two years. So, we’ve been looking at ways we can help, particularly pensioners. Rent Assistance has had, for example, a 45 per cent increase in the maximum rate. So, we’ve been looking at how we can best support people and support pensioners. Of course, it is tough, but back in 2009, it used to be only set by CPI. It was actually a Labor Government that changed these settings. Now, I would say also Peter Dutton has said that this type of indexation is wasteful and that he would review whether indexation is actually applied. He’s called it wasteful spending. So, while I understand it is difficult for people, it is the settings and the way it’s been set back since 2018, where it was changed to be a more generous indexation. And we’ve looked at other ways we can support pensioners with cost of living support as well.

NIKOLAI BEILHARZ:    Minister, thank you for your time this afternoon. Amanda Rishworth, the Minister for Social Services.

MIL OSI News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Lantronix Expands Partnership With TD SYNNEX to Distribute Its Out-of-Band, Network Infrastructure and Industrial IoT Solutions Throughout Europe

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

IRVINE, Calif., March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity for IoT solutions enabling AI Edge Intelligence, today announced it has expanded its partnership with TD SYNNEX (NYSE:SNX), a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator for the IT ecosystem. An established major distributor for Lantronix in North America, TD SYNNEX will now distribute Lantronix’s out-of-band, network infrastructure and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) throughout Europe, bringing expanded support to Lantronix’s global customers and channel partners.

“Designed to increase Lantronix’s market presence in Europe, the expanded relationship with TD SYNNEX provides our mutual customers and channel partners with local-market access to Lantronix’s advanced out-of-band, network infrastructure and industrial IoT solutions,” said Kurt Hoff, VP of Global Sales & Marketing at Lantronix. “We are very excited about the anticipated market growth from this expanded partnership as our solutions are an excellent fit with TD SYNNEX’s specialized AI, IoT and Integration/Automation go-to-market.”

“We are delighted to expand our partnership with market leader Lantronix. Backed by the proven success of our long-term relationship in North America, this expanded relationship brings the benefits of Lantronix’s proven products to our European customers and channel partners with the added benefit of a single-source distributor for our mutual global customers,” said Craig Smith, VP of Data, AI and Business Applications at TD SYNNEX.

About TD SYNNEX

TD SYNNEX (NYSE: SNX) is a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator for the IT ecosystem. We’re an innovative partner helping more than 150,000 customers in 100+ countries to maximize the value of technology investments, demonstrate business outcomes and unlock growth opportunities. Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, and Fremont, California, TD SYNNEX’s 23,000 co-workers are dedicated to uniting compelling IT products, services and solutions from 2,500+ best-in-class technology vendors. Our edge-to-cloud portfolio is anchored in some of the highest-growth technology segments including cloud, cybersecurity, big data/analytics, AI, IoT, mobility and everything as a service. TD SYNNEX is committed to serving customers and communities, and we believe we can have a positive impact on our people and our planet, intentionally acting as a respected corporate citizen. We aspire to be a diverse and inclusive employer of choice for talent across the IT ecosystem. For more information, visit www.tdsynnex.com.

About Lantronix

Lantronix Inc. is a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions that target high-growth markets, including Smart Cities, Enterprise and Transportation. Lantronix’s products and services empower companies to succeed in the growing IoT markets by delivering customizable solutions that enable AI Edge Intelligence. Lantronix’s advanced solutions include Intelligent Substations infrastructure, Infotainment systems and Video Surveillance, supplemented with advanced Out-of-Band Management (OOB) for Cloud and Edge Computing.

For more information, visit the Lantronix website.

“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including, without limitation, statements related to Lantronix products or leadership team. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; our ability to mitigate any disruption in our and our suppliers’ and vendors’ supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other outbreaks, wars and recent tensions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, or other factors; future responses to and effects of public health crises; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Sept. 9, 2024, including in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of Part I of that report, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. In addition, actual results may differ as a result of additional risks and uncertainties about which we are currently unaware or which we do not currently view as material to our business. For these reasons, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements we make speak only as of the date on which they are made. We expressly disclaim any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof to conform such statements to actual results or to changes in our opinions or expectations, except as required by applicable law or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC. If we do update or correct any forward-looking statements, investors should not conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections.

©2025 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Lantronix Media Contact:
Gail Kathryn Miller
Corporate Marketing &
Communications Manager
media@lantronix.com

Lantronix Analyst and Investor Contact:
investors@lantronix.com

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Business and Tech – Mobile service revenue in China to increase at 2.5% CAGR over 2024-2029, forecasts GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

The total mobile services revenue in China is poised to increase from $139.2 billion in 2024 to $157.3 billion in 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.5%, mainly driven by healthy growth in mobile data services segment, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s research reveals that growth in mobile data service revenues will offset the decline in mobile voice service revenues during the forecast period. While mobile voice service revenue will decline at a CAGR of 10.4% between 2024 and 2029, mobile data revenue will increase at a CAGR of 5.2% over the same period, primarily driven by the increasing adoption of higher average revenue per user (ARPU) 5G services.

Srikanth Vaidya, Telecom Analyst at GlobalData, says: “The average monthly mobile data usage in China is expected to increase from 15.2 GB in 2024 to 28.3 GB in 2029, driven by the growing consumption of online video and social media content over smartphones, thanks to the widespread availability of 5G services.”

GlobalData is optimistic about the country’s mobile broadband services outlook with 5G services leading the way. 5G subscriptions are estimated to account for 89.6% of the total mobile subscriptions in 2029, driven by the ongoing 5G network expansion and modernization efforts of the operators. For instance, China Mobile has commercially deployed 5G-A network in more than 280 cities till June 2024, with the goal of establishing the world’s largest 5G commercial network.

Government’s policies and initiatives for promoting 5G adoption in the industrial sector will also lend traction to the 5G market in the country. For instance, MIIT, China’s telecom regulator had announced to develop more than 10,000 5G factories to drive industrial applications of 5G, particularly in manufacturing.

The advancements in 5G technology will also drive robust growth in M2M/IoT subscriptions, which are expected to increase at a CAGR of 13.3% over the period 2024 to 2029.

Vaidya concludes: “China Mobile will retain its leading position through 2029, supported by its ongoing 5G network expansions to cater to the rising demand for high-speed services by residential and enterprise segments. Till June 2024, the operator deployed over 2.29 million 5G base stations, including 705,000 700MHz 5G base stations. China Mobile had invested about CNY31.4 billion ($4.3 billion) on 5G infrastructure in H1 2024, of the total CNY173 billion ($23.8 billion) planned for the entire year.”

Notes:

Quotes provided by Srikanth Vaidya, Telecom Analyst at GlobalData
This press release is written using data and information sourced from proprietary databases, primary and secondary research, and in-house analysis conducted by GlobalData’s team of industry experts

About GlobalData

4,000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: ELTFV Adopts Distributed Architecture to Build a Secure and Stable Trading System

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DENVER, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The technical team at ELTFV Exchange recently announced the adoption of a distributed system architecture to further enhance the stability and scalability of cryptocurrency trading. By independently deploying modules such as the trading engine and user management, the platform ensures 24/7 stable operation. Additionally, automated monitoring and intelligent operation and maintenance systems provide users with an exceptional trading experience.

The introduction of distributed architecture equips ELTFV Exchange with stronger defense capabilities against cyberattacks. Through multi-node distributed storage, the platform effectively mitigates risks associated with “single points of failure” or “single points of attack” in traditional centralized systems. Even if a hacker targets a specific node, they cannot easily access complete data or disrupt the entire system operations.

ELTFV Exchange employs multi-factor authentication (MFA), encrypted communication, and dynamic risk control as part of its multi-layered security measures. To ensure the safety of funds and accounts, the platform separates user assets into cold and hot wallets and uses smart contract technology to enforce strict security checks for large-scale fund transfers. Even in the face of advanced attacks, user assets remain fully protected.

To ensure the efficient operation of the distributed system, ELTFV Exchange has developed an intelligent operation and maintenance system with automated monitoring capabilities. The platform monitors the status of each module in real time and uses machine learning algorithms to analyze trading traffic, user behavior, and system performance, allowing it to predict and alert potential issues in advance. When the load on a specific node exceeds a predefined threshold, the system automatically triggers resource allocation and traffic routing to prevent transaction delays or downtime.

The high scalability of the distributed architecture offers flexibility for future product iterations at ELTFV Exchange. As the platform continues to roll out new trading products and functional modules—supporting a wider variety of cryptocurrencies and financial derivatives—the distributed architecture can quickly adapt to these changes.

This technical upgrade to a distributed architecture marks a significant step forward in the global expansion and future development of ELTFV Exchange. ELTFV will remain committed to leveraging technological innovation as a driving force, continuously striving to provide users with reliable cryptocurrency trading services they can trust.

Media Contact:
Company: ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited
Contact Person: Faiz Razak
Position in the company: Marketing Director
Email: faiz@eltfv.org
Website: https://www.eltfv.org

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/09f54a7b-5b28-4fb9-84f5-24cdfbd7b62e

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 3 April 2025 – Nykredit Realkredit A/S
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 9(3)-(5) AND SECTION 21(3) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 636 OF 15 MAY 2020

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

Publication of supplement concerning extension of offer period for Nykredit’s recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 3 April 2025

19 March 2025

Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 3 April 2025

In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order¹, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion.

On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order. In the Offer Document, the offer period was set to expire on 19 February 2025 at 23:59 (CET) (the “Initial Offer Period”). On 18 February 2025, Nykredit published a supplement to the Offer Document, which extended the offer period to 20 March 2025. The background for the extension was to provide Nykredit with more time to obtain the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority required to complete the Offer.

Today, Nykredit published a supplement (the “Supplement”) to the Offer Document, which further extends the offer period for the Offer. The Supplement has been approved by the Danish FSA on 19 March 2025 in accordance with section 9(3)-(5) of the Danish Takeover Order. The Supplement should be read in conjunction with the Offer Document and the previous supplement as published on 18 February 2025.

With this Supplement, Nykredit further extends the offer period, such that the Offer will expire on 3 April 2025 at 23:59 (CEST). Subsequently, any reference to the “Offer Period” in the Offer Document or other documents relating to the Offer will refer to the period commencing on the day of publication of the Offer Document on 8 January 2025 and ending on 3 April 2025 at 23:59 (CEST) (the “Extended Offer Period”).

The purpose of the extension is to provide Nykredit with time to obtain the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority required to complete the Offer.

If the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority has not been granted by the expiry of the Extended Offer Period, Nykredit expects to extend the offer period further.

The extension of the offer period entails that the expected completion of the Offer and settlement of the offer price to the Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have accepted the Offer will be extended correspondingly. Completion is subsequently expected to take place on 11 April 2025 (provided that the offer period is not extended further than to 3 April 2025 23:59 (CEST)).

At the time of this announcement, Nykredit holds 32.79 per cent of the shares in Spar Nord Bank. A preliminary compilation of the acceptances that Nykredit has information about shows that, including the irrevocable undertakings, acceptances corresponding to more than 46 per cent of the share capital of Spar Nord Bank has been submitted, and that Nykredit’s ownership interest in Spar Nord Bank, together with the irrevocable undertakings and the binding acceptances submitted that Nykredit has information about, totals more than 80 per cent of the total share capital (excluding treasury shares) of Spar Nord Bank, indicating that the 67 per cent acceptance limit stated in the Offer has been reached. The final result of the Offer will be determined on expiry of the offer period and published in accordance with section 21(3) of the Danish Takeover Order.

Nykredit intends to delist Spar Nord Bank from trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen and complete a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Spar Nord Bank shareholders, provided that Nykredit has obtained the necessary ownership interest, and the Offer has been completed. Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have opted not to accept the Offer, should expect that Nykredit, provided that the Offer is completed, will take steps to combine Nykredit Bank A/S and Spar Nord Bank, which will result in a further increase in Nykredit’s ownership interest in Spar Nord Bank. Not later than in continuation of the combination, Nykredit thus expects to hold a sufficient ownership interest to be able to delist Spar Nord Bank from trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen and complete a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Spar Nord Bank shareholders.

The full terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer Document as amended by the Supplement. The Offer Document and the Supplement are published in the Danish FSA’s OAM database: https://oam.finanstilsynet.dk/ and can also, with certain restrictions, be accessed at https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/ and https://www.sparnord.dk/investor-relations/overtagelsestilbud.

About Spar Nord Bank

Spar Nord Bank was founded in 1824 and is now a nationwide bank with 58 branches. Spar Nord Bank offers all types of financial services, consultancy and products, focusing its business on retail customers and primarily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the local areas in which the bank is represented. The bank is also focused on leasing operations and large corporate customers, which are both business areas handled by the head offices.

Spar Nord Bank has historically been rooted in northern Jutland and continues to be a market leader in this region. However, in the period from 2002 to 2024, Spar Nord Bank has established and acquired branches outside northern Jutland. Over the course of the years, the bank has adjusted its branch network in an ongoing process and now has a nationwide distribution network comprising 58 branches. These 58 branches are distributed on 32 banking areas, each of which is headed by a manager reporting directly to the bank’s executive board.

The Spar Nord Bank Group consists of two earnings entities: Spar Nord Bank’s branches and the Trading Division. As an entity, the Trading Division serves customers from Spar Nord Bank’s branches as well as large retail customers and institutional clients in the field of equities, bonds, fixed income and forex products, asset management and international transactions. Finally, under the concept Sparxpres, the bank offers consumer loans to personal customers through Sparxpres’ platform as well as debt consolidation loans and consumer financing via retail stores and gift voucher solutions via shopping centres and city associations.

About Nykredit

Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Denmark, company reg. (CVR) no. 12 71 92 80, having its registered office at Sundkrogsgade 25, 2150 Nordhavn, Denmark. Nykredit is a mortgage credit institution and, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary Totalkredit A/S, is a market leader of the Danish mortgage credit market with a market share of some 45.2 per cent. Nykredit offers mortgage financing for private individuals and businesses.

Nykredit is part of the Nykredit Group, which historically dates back to 1851. In addition to carrying on mortgage credit business, the Group carries on banking business through Nykredit Bank – including banking and wealth management operations – and has a total of around 4,000 employees in Denmark.

Nykredit is owned by an association of the Nykredit Group’s customers, Forenet Kredit. Forenet Kredit owns close to 80 per cent of Nykredit’s shares. Other major shareholders are five Danish pension funds: Akademikernes Pension AP Pension, PensionDanmark, PFA and PKA.

Nykredit is known for the advantages offered through the association. Forenet Kredit makes capital contributions to the Nykredit Group when times are good, and Nykredit has decided to pass these on to its customers.

Since, 2017, Forenet Kredit has paid over DKK 8 billion in capital contributions to the Nykredit Group, and in the period to 2027, Forenet Kredit has provided a further DKK 7 billion.

Questions and further information

Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

Nykredit Bank A/S

Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

Sundkrogsgade 25

2150 Nordhavn
Denmark

Telephone: +45 7010 9000

and

Carnegie Investment Bank

Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

Overgaden Neden Vandet 9B

1414 Copenhagen K
Denmark

E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/.

This announcement and the Offer Document (with supplements) are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document (with supplements) approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

Restricted jurisdictions

The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the laws of such jurisdiction, including securities laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining this announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document, earlier supplements, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this announcement, the Supplement or the Offer Document to shareholders outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.

1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

Attachments
- Announcement of extension of the offer period 19.03.2025
- Supplement to the offer document 19.03.2025
The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Capgemini accelerates enterprise adoption of agentic AI for industries with NVIDIA
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Press contact:
Mollie Mellows
Tel.: + 44 (0) 7342 709384
E-mail: mollie.mellows@capgemini.com

Capgemini accelerates enterprise adoption of agentic AI for industries with NVIDIA

Paris, March 19, 2025 – Capgemini today announced the introduction of customized agentic solutions designed in collaboration with NVIDIA to accelerate enterprise AI adoption. Capgemini will deliver end-to-end AI services tailored to meet the diverse needs of specific industries when implementing AI agents, from healthcare and financial services to manufacturing and telco. By leveraging the power of NVIDIA NIM and a dedicated agentic gallery, Capgemini will be able to streamline deployment and reduce complexity for enterprise clients looking to derive actionable insights to achieve agentic-driven business transformation.

With the combination of Capgemini’s deep industry expertise and NVIDIA’s state-of-the-art technology, enterprises will benefit from faster time-to-value and agile implementation of AI agents. Built on NVIDIA AI Enterprise with NVIDIA NIM™, Capgemini offers a simplified, high-performance deployment process, enabling clients to seamlessly and securely integrate agentic capabilities into their existing technology infrastructure.

Enterprises will gain access to a dedicated agentic gallery, eliminating the complexities of developing AI agents from the ground up for each business process, resulting in significant time savings and cost reductions. In addition, Capgemini brings robust governance frameworks on top of NVIDIA AI stack, allowing compliance, scalability, and consistent performance. With a focus on scalability and governance, clients will benefit from AI agents that are designed to meet industry standards and regulatory requirements, providing long-term sustainability.

Through this collaboration, Capgemini will help organizations navigate the complexities of implementing agentic AI solutions on the NVIDIA AI stack while addressing strategic objectives such as:
- Rapid prototyping and deployment: Accelerating AI agent rollouts with pre-configured workflows and optimized infrastructure, reducing time-to-market.
- Seamless integration: Combining AI agent capabilities with existing business applications to unlock new levels of process automation, efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
- Scalability and governance: Implementing AI agents with robust governance frameworks, ensuring compliance, scalability, and consistent performance. The dedicated agentic capabilities of Capgemini RAISE, including governance, real-time monitoring and orchestration, enables unified control of agentic solutions with tangible results.
“Agentic AI is changing the way we live and work. There is vast potential for AI agents to drive innovation,” said Chris Penrose, Global Head of Business Development for Telco, NVIDIA. “Capgemini has a deep understanding of the complex challenges facing enterprises and the industry-specific agentic AI use cases that can unlock significant business value. By leveraging NVIDIA NIM, together we can accelerate deployment of AI agents that enhance productivity and revolutionize the way they operate, whilst addressing critical concerns like trust, safety, security and compliance.”

Together with NVIDIA, Capgemini is building over 100 bespoke AI agent-driven solutions tailored to various industry use cases, including:
- Automotive: Smart agents to monitor and improve autonomous and human driving performance; vehicle performance in varying urban, weather, and traffic conditions; digital twin test vehicles in omniverse settings.
- Consumer: Central and interactive Edge AI access point in the home that can be used to oversee the elderly and infirm, locate mislaid items, and monitor home security.
- Financial Services: Fraud alert agents to validate fraud activity and manage response; financial planning and investment management services to dynamically monitor client portfolios in real-time and provide personalized investment strategies.
- Life Sciences: Drug discovery support to extract actionable insights from drug mechanisms, disease progression and clinical outcomes; clinical trial refinement to improve design and monitor real-time data for mid-trial adjustments.
- Manufacturing: Smart camera-based process monitoring for improved shopfloor performance and safety compliance.
- Public Sector: AI-driven assistants capable of executing various administrative and civic tasks; fraud detection and prevention agents that provide comprehensive insights and detect patterns and anomalies that may indicate fraudulent activities.
- Retail and Supply Chain: AI-driven agents that monitor shelves in-store and in warehouses, and automatically trigger SKU replenishment.
- Telco: Network automation, including AI-RAN, and contact center translation services.
Capgemini has been working with Telenor to build Norway’s first sovereign and secure AI Cloud Service in collaboration with NVIDIA. Launched in November 2024, the Telenor AI Factory is designed to accelerate AI adoption across industries while ensuring security, sustainability, and full data sovereignty within Norwegian borders. The AI Factory provides businesses with the infrastructure to develop, scale, and integrate AI into their operations — whether for internal workflows, customer-facing applications, or advanced AI-driven solutions. The service runs on 100% renewable energy, supporting responsible innovation while minimizing environmental impact.

“With the AI Factory, we are creating a secure and sustainable foundation for AI innovation in Norway,” said Jannicke Hilland, EVP and Head of Telenor Infrastructure. “Capgemini has played a crucial role in developing this service, working closely with us to build a platform that allows businesses to harness AI while maintaining full control over their data. Together, we are ensuring that organizations have access to cutting-edge AI solutions without compromising security or sustainability.”

“This new collaboration with NVIDIA marks a pivotal step forward in our commitment to bringing cutting-edge AI-powered technology solutions to our clients for accelerated value creation,” said Roshan Gya, Capgemini Invent CEO and Group Executive Board member at Capgemini. “By leveraging the power of the NVIDIA AI Stack, Capgemini will help clients expedite their agentic AI journey from strategy to full deployment, enabling them to solve complex business challenges and innovate at scale. NVIDIA’s robust platform provides the necessary infrastructure and tools to make this acceleration possible. Our work with Telenor on its AI Factory showcases how we can help an enterprise to scale generative and agentic AI to gain competitive advantage and realize business value.”

About Capgemini
Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.
Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

Attachment
- 19_03_Capgemini NVIDIA Agentic AI news alert
The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: ELTFV Launches Multi-Layer Security Protection System to Safeguard User Assets

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DENVER, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, ELTFV Exchange held a technology launch event in New York, unveiling its independently developed security solution. By implementing cold/hot wallet segregation, multi-signature technology, and advanced key management mechanisms, it has elevated user asset protection to new heights. ELTFV aims to strike the optimal balance between user experience and security safeguards while driving technical innovation to achieve an upgrade in user trust.

ELTFV Exchange employs cold and hot wallet isolation technology, dividing user assets into two storage categories: hot wallets and offline cold wallets. Hot wallets are used to meet daily transaction needs, while cold wallets, completely disconnected from the network, store the majority of assets. Even if hackers manage to breach the hot wallet, the core assets in the cold wallet remain unaffected. This layered storage strategy effectively reduces the risk of system breaches by hackers.

In addition to cold and hot wallet isolation, ELTFV Exchange has introduced multi-signature technology. Every large-scale transaction requires authorization from multiple parties, preventing single points of failure or individual account breaches. Even if the personal account information of a user is compromised, attackers cannot independently complete asset transfers, significantly enhancing operational security.

ELTFV Exchange is not only committed to preventing potential risks but has also established a 24/7 real-time monitoring and emergency response mechanism. This system continuously monitors suspicious activities, and if anomalies are detected, it immediately takes action, freezing relevant accounts and initiating further investigations. This proactive defense strategy enables effective risk prevention before incidents occur.

The multi-layer security protection system introduced by ELTFV Exchange is both a reflection of technological innovation and a concrete demonstration of the platform commitment to its users. Moving forward, ELTFV will continue to collaborate with top-tier global technology teams, continuously optimizing and upgrading its security measures to provide users with a safer and more reliable cryptocurrency trading environment.

Media Contact:
Company: ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited
Contact Person: Faiz Razak
Position in the company: Marketing Director
Email: faiz@eltfv.org
Website: https://www.eltfv.org

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ebe0143d-a7d8-4cfd-a2a1-1c0faf033c8a

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Šiaulių Bankas has placed EUR 300 million bond issue in the international market

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE OR FORM PART OF ANY OFFER, INVITATION TO SELL OR ISSUE, OR ANY SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO PURCHASE OR SUBSCRIBE FOR, ANY SECURITIES OF AKCINĖ BENDROVĖ ŠIAULIŲ BANKAS.

Šiaulių Bankas AB has successfully placed EUR 300 million issue of 5.25-year senior preferred fixed rate reset notes with an optional call date and interest rate reset at 4.25 years from issue.

The annual fixed rate coupon on the notes up to the reset date will be 4.597%. Settlement will take place on 25 March 2025. Listing of the notes will be on Euronext Dublin.

The notes have been allocated to more than 100 institutional investors from the UK, Germany, France, Switzerland, Baltic States and other countries, including supranational financial organizations.

“We appreciate the confidence international investors have shown contributing to our growth story and the partners who are helping us to achieve this ambition – this successful issuance will make a significant contribution to the Šiaulių Bankas’ strategic plans.

We are pleased that international investors view the country’s economic prospects favourably and recognize our institutions as sound and investment,” says Tomas Varenbergas, Member of the Board and Head of the Investment Management Division of Šiaulių Bankas.

The proceeds of the notes will be used to meet existing and future minimum own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL) targets, to improve the bank’s liquidity position, and to finance other general corporate purposes.

The notes rated Baa1 with a stable outlook by the international rating agency Moody’s.

Relevant stabilisation regulations including FCA/ICMA will apply.

Šiaulių Bankas mandated global investment banks Erste Group, Goldman Sachs Bank Europe SE and Morgan Stanley as well as Šiaulių Bankas AB as Joint Lead Managers.

Šiaulių Bankas as the issuer was advised on legal matters by Dentons UK and Middle East LLP and TGS Baltic as lead issuer’s legal counsel. The Joint Lead Managers were advised by Linklaters LLP and Sorainen on legal issues.

This communication is not an offer of securities or investments for sale nor a solicitation of an offer to buy securities or investments in any jurisdiction where such offer or solicitation would be unlawful. No action has been taken that would permit an offering of securities or possession or distribution of this announcement in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required. Persons into whose possession this announcement comes are required to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions.

Additional information:

Tomas Varenbergas
Head of Investment Management Division
tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Optimizing Team Structure to Support Strategic Initiatives by ELTFV Exchange

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DENVER, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, Alexander Wells, the founder and CEO of ELTFV Exchange, announced on social media that the platform has completed a systematic optimization of its team structure to further enhance operational efficiency. This initiative reflects the keen insight by Alexander into industry trends and his strategic foresight in practice. Under his leadership, the platform has built a professional and experienced international team, which will drive ELTFV to achieve even greater success in the cryptocurrency market.

As the founder of ELTFV Exchange, Alexander Wells brings over 15 years of experience in traditional finance and the blockchain industry. He previously served as a senior trader at Morgan Stanley, where he led global markets and derivatives trading, gaining extensive hands-on expertise in financial markets.

In the blockchain sector, Alexander held the role of CEO at Pinnacle Blockchain, where he successfully led the commercialization of several innovative technologies. He also served as a strategic advisor to the fintech company Stellar Edge, helping the enterprise achieve groundbreaking progress in the crypto-asset space. These experiences have earned him a strong reputation in both the financial and technological fields, laying a solid foundation for the ELTFV growth.

Under the leadership of Alexander Wells, ELTFV Exchange has upgraded its team structure, with the optimization aimed at strengthening core areas such as technology development, product innovation, and risk management. The new technology team of the platform is focused on advancing blockchain infrastructure development and enhancing platform security. ELTFV plans to allocate more resources to developing more efficient and secure trading systems, ensuring the safety of user assets and delivering a seamless trading experience.

When discussing the future development of ELTFV Exchange, Alexander stated: “The team is the key factor in achieving strategic goals. By optimizing the team structure, the platform can execute its strategy more effectively and continue creating value for users.” His vision is to transform ELTFV into a technology-driven, user-friendly global platform, injecting new vitality into the cryptocurrency industry.

Media Contact:

Company: ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited
Contact Person: Faiz Razak
Position in the company: Marketing Director
Email: faiz@eltfv.org
Website: https://www.eltfv.org

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/30165c3d-5b59-4e36-88dd-581dd1bc62bf

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Signs Bipartisan Legislation Lowering Costs for Grain Buyers

Source: US State of Minnesota

Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill that amends financial reporting requirements for grain buyers. The legislation will help ensure timely financial reports from grain buyers while substantially reducing the cost of annual financial reporting required for small grain buyers.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: ELTFV Exchange Expands into the European Market, Actively Adhering to MiCA Regulations

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DENVER, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the imminent implementation of the European Union Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, new regulatory rules are set to accelerate sustained investment in cryptocurrency trading systems. In this evolving regulatory environment, ELTFV Exchange is actively expanding into the European market by establishing localized compliance teams in key regional hubs to better meet the regulatory requirements and trading needs of European users.

The EU MiCA regulation is regarded as one of the most comprehensive cryptocurrency regulatory frameworks globally. Its core objective is to provide a unified legal framework for the crypto-asset industry, thereby enhancing market transparency, protecting investor interests, and preventing financial crimes. MiCA mandates that trading platforms strictly comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF) requirements while ensuring the safety of user funds. This necessitates that cryptocurrency exchanges upgrade their technological infrastructure, strengthen data protection, and enhance compliance audits.

Adhering to its long-standing commitment to user security and compliance-driven operations, ELTFV Exchange is proactively addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by MiCA. The platform is gradually building compliance teams across major European markets. These teams, composed of experienced legal, financial, and technical experts, are dedicated to ensuring that all aspects of the platform operations align with the latest EU regulatory requirements.

To better serve European users, ELTFV Exchange plans to launch more innovative financial products that comply with MiCA regulations in the near future, including stablecoins and tokenized assets. This initiative will not only expand the platform market reach but also provide users with a wider range of investment options.

As the importance of the European market continues to grow, ELTFV Exchange will remain closely aligned with regulatory developments, adhering to a strategy of compliance and innovation. The platform aims to provide users with superior services and a safer trading environment. Looking ahead, ELTFV plans to establish strategic partnerships with multiple European financial institutions and technology companies to offer more diversified financial solutions, empowering investors with exceptional trading support in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market.

Media Contact:
Company: ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited
Contact Person: Faiz Razak
Position in the company: Marketing Director
Email: faiz@eltfv.org
Website: https://www.eltfv.org

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by ELTFV Blockchain Service Limited. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e39055db-1662-4a5d-b2ce-35457b6f318e

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI China: HK chief: Panama ports deal should comply with law

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said on Tuesday that public concerns about city conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings’ proposed sale of its Panama Canal ports to a United States consortium deserve attention, and expressed firm opposition to any form of coercion or pressure tactics in international trade deals.
Political and business heavyweights in Hong Kong cautioned that the decision may pose risks to China’s national interests and the landscape of multilateral trade. It could also undermine the group’s long-term development.
CK Hutchison Holdings — founded by Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing — said on March 4 that it had struck a $22.8 billion deal to sell its majority stakes in two Panama Canal ports, as well as 41 others in 23 countries, to a consortium led by US investment company BlackRock. The announcement has ignited widespread discussions amid the uncertain global trade market.
Ahead of an Executive Council meeting, Lee was asked about how businesses operating globally and closely intertwined with Hong Kong’s economy should navigate political risks.
He said that widespread public discussions about the issue reflect societal concerns, underscoring its significance.
The chief executive said that the SAR government calls on foreign governments to provide a fair and equitable business environment for all companies, including those from Hong Kong. He firmly condemned the use of coercion or pressure in international economic and trade activities, emphasizing that any transaction must comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
The SAR government will handle the matter in accordance with the law and regulations, Lee added.
Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and former chief executive of the SAR, said on social media that some businessmen mistakenly believe in the notion that “business knows no borders” and assume that everything is purely business.
However, businessmen without a motherland will only face bullying, Leung said, emphasizing that businessmen should also prioritize their country.
Lau Siu-kai, a consultant with the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies, a Beijing-based think tank, said that from a business perspective, this deal indeed brings substantial profits to CK Hutchison Holdings and shields the group from potential US pressure on its global ports and infrastructure.
However, this transaction inevitably poses threats to China’s national interests and security, as the US could intensify actions against China’s shipbuilding and shipping industries as well as the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, Lau said.
He called for the company to fully and seriously consider the complexity of the international landscape and China’s national interests before making business decisions, stressing that pivotal infrastructure plays a highly crucial role in international competition.
Erik Yim-kong, a Hong Kong lawmaker and vice-chairman of China Merchants Port Group, said that the sale by CK Hutchison Holdings could potentially squeeze the country’s legitimate space for expanding its international trade and logistics industry and may affect multilateral trade, as well as the company’s long-term development.
He emphasized that port management concerns significant national interests. He noted that the sale involves multiple ports located in countries and regions involved in the BRI, and that a quarter of China’s import and export goods pass through the Panama Canal.
He warned that US control over the canal would grant access to precise data on China’s trade, facilitating targeted actions against China’s manufacturing sector.
CK Hutchison Holdings and CK Asset Holdings will hold board meetings on Thursday to deliberate on last year’s business performance. The companies said on Tuesday that they would not hold a news conference and analyst meeting on the annual results as they usually do.

MIL OSI China News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Defiance Launches HOOX: 2X Leveraged ETF for Robinhood Markets, Inc.

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MIAMI, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Defiance ETFs introduces HOOX, the Defiance Daily Target 2X Long HOOD ETF, a 2X leveraged single-stock ETF designed to provide amplified exposure to Robinhood Markets, Inc. (Nasdaq: HOOD). This ETF offers traders a way to seek enhanced returns on Robinhood Markets, Inc without requiring a margin account.

HOOX seeks daily investment results that correspond to twice (200%) the daily percentage change of Robinhood Markets, a pioneer in commission-free trading that has transformed the brokerage industry with innovative technology and a user-friendly platform.

“HOOX offers investors a compelling opportunity for investors seeking amplified exposure to Robinhood Markets, a company that has redefined retail investing,” said Sylvia Jablonski, CEO of Defiance ETFs. “As Robinhood continues to expand its offerings and shape the future of trading, this ETF allows investors to participate in its growth with enhanced returns.”

For more information, visit DefianceETFs.com.

The Fund is not intended to be used by, and is not appropriate for, investors who do not intend to actively monitor and manage their portfolios. The Fund pursues a daily leveraged investment objective, which means that the Fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage because the Fund magnifies the performance of the Underlying Security. The Fund is not suitable for all investors. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage, and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Security’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Security’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day.

An investment in HOOX is not an investment in Robinhood Markets, Inc.

About Defiance ETFs

Founded in 2018, Defiance is at the forefront of ETF innovation. Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs.

Our first-mover leveraged single-stock ETFs empower investors to take amplified positions in high-growth companies, providing precise leverage exposure without the need to open a margin account.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Defiance ETFs LLC is the ETF sponsor. The Fund’s investment adviser is Tidal Investments, LLC (“Tidal” or the “Adviser”).

The Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information about the investment company. Please read carefully before investing. A hard copy of the prospectuses can be requested by calling 833.333.9383.

Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the funds’ may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a single industry or country, may be subject to a higher degree of risk.

HOOD Risks: The Fund invests in swap contracts and options that are based on the share price of HOOD. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of HOOD even though it does not.

Indirect Investment Risk. HOOD is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, or the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way and has no obligation to consider your Shares in taking any corporate actions that might affect the value of Shares.

Trading Risk. The trading price of the fund may be subject to volatility and could experience wide fluctuations due to various factors. Short sellers may also play a significant role in trading HOOD potentially affecting the supply and demand dynamics and contributing to market price volatility. Public perception and external factors beyond the company’s control may influence HOOD’s stock price disproportionately.

Performance Risk. HOOD may fail to meet publicly announced guidelines or other expectations about its business, which could cause the price of HOOD to decline.

HOOD Operational Risks. HOOD’s plans to venture into new international markets introduces significant uncertainties that may not yield desired outcomes. Operations are subject to complex and evolving laws, with non-compliance posing threats to HOOD’s business. Past and potential future regulatory investigations, settlements, and litigation could lead to substantial costs and reputational damage. Intense competition from rivals with greater resources threatens HOOD’s market position and revenue.

Financial Exchanges and Data Industry Risks. The industry is highly susceptible to fluctuations in economic conditions, changes in market sentiment, and regulatory alterations, which can significantly affect market volatility and trading volumes. Technological disruptions or failures, including cybersecurity breaches, could compromise user data and disrupt trading activities, potentially leading to financial losses for both the company and its users.

Global Crypto Asset Trading Platform Risks. HOOD has announced plans to expand its crypto asset business. Such an expansion will subject HOOD to risks related to regulatory compliance, such as the potential for increased scrutiny, enhanced anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) requirements, and the need for additional licenses in various jurisdictions. Operational risks will also arise from the complexities of integrating the new platform’s operations, technology, and culture, as well as the need to bolster system security and manage a more extensive technology infrastructure.

HOOX Fund Risks

Leverage Risk. The Fund obtains investment exposure in excess of its net assets by utilizing leverage and may lose more money in market conditions that are adverse to its investment objective than a fund that does not utilize leverage. An investment in the Fund is exposed to the risk that a decline in the daily performance of the Underlying Security will be magnified.

High Portfolio Turnover Risk. Daily rebalancing of the Fund’s holdings pursuant to its daily investment objective causes a much greater number of portfolio transactions when compared to most ETFs.

Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil. Markets for securities or financial instruments could be disrupted by a number of events, including, but not limited to, an economic crisis, natural disasters, epidemics/pandemics, new legislation or regulatory changes inside or outside the United States.

Derivatives Risk. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, leverage, imperfect daily correlations with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

Compounding and Market Volatility Risk. The Fund has a daily leveraged investment objective and the Fund’s performance for periods greater than a trading day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which is very likely to differ from two times (200%) the Underlying Security’s performance, before the Fund’s management fee and other expenses.

Fixed Income Securities Risk. When the Fund invests in fixed income securities, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate with changes in interest rates. Typically, a rise in interest rates causes a decline in the value of fixed income securities owned by the Fund.

Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk of the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security, may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

Diversification does not ensure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market.

Brokerage Commissions may be charged on trades.

Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC

Contact Information

David Hanono

info@defianceetfs.com

833.333.9383

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d7fe9b3-c787-4d4b-bebc-6264a3cd7e2c

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Address to the Catholic Social Services Australia Conference, Sydney

Source: Australian Treasurer

Thank you for the opportunity to address you today. I acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation and pay my respects to all First Nations people present. Their connection to community and country reminds us of our ongoing responsibility to care for each other.

The Gospel of Matthew teaches us powerfully:

‘Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40)

This teaching resonates deeply with Australia’s ideals of fairness and community. Yet, our society today faces a significant challenge: inequality. Inequality matters profoundly – not just economically, but morally, socially, and spiritually. It shapes opportunities, influences life outcomes, and determines who shares in our national prosperity.

In reflecting upon inequality today, I’d like to begin with a thought experiment developed by the Dutch economist Jan Pen.

Imagine all Australians marching in a one‑hour parade, their height reflecting their wealth.

At first, you wouldn’t see anyone – the poorest Australians, submerged by debt, would be underground. Several minutes would pass before you see people the height of tiny insects, representing those with minimal savings and precarious jobs. At half‑time, the parade participants would be barely waist‑high, reflecting an average wealth level that is far below what many expect.

It isn’t until the last few minutes that the parade gets dramatic. Australians become giants, several metres tall, owning investment properties and multiple cars. In the last seconds, billionaires appear, their heads literally in the clouds. The richest Australian would tower over 46 kilometres high – far above Mt Everest.

This image vividly captures the scale and drama of inequality in Australia today.

The historical journey of Australian inequality

Yet it was not always like this. As I documented in my book Battlers and Billionaires, Australian history shows fluctuations in inequality, shaped by policy, events, and the collective actions of citizens.

When British settlers first arrived in 1788, inequality was limited – not due to idealism, but survival. Governor Arthur Phillip’s invitations to dinner famously concluded, ‘Please bring your own bread,’ reflecting the scarcity of resources and the reality that inequality was limited by necessity.

Yet inequality quickly rose through the nineteenth century, driven by land distribution favouring the wealthy. Under Governor Lachlan Macquarie, who ruled the colony from 1810 to 1821, more than half the land granted went to just the top 10 per cent of settlers. By the late nineteenth century, disparities between landowners and labourers were immense. Historian Stuart Macintyre describes colossal extremes between the luxurious life of pastoralists like Richard Casey and the hard labour endured by workers like Jock Neilson, who struggled through bush labour with minimal wages and harsh living conditions.

The early twentieth century brought change. In 1907, the Harvester Judgement established a basic wage designed to lift families out of poverty. Australia saw the creation of institutions such as the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Court, introducing worker rights into the national conscience. Still, stark inequalities remained, with large segments of society excluded from prosperity.

However, the post‑war period between the 1940s and 1970s marked what economists call the ‘Great Compression.’ Strong unions, progressive taxation, expanded public services, and affordable housing policies dramatically reduced inequality. For several decades, Australians experienced significant upward social mobility and rising standards of living for the majority.

Yet since the 1980s, Australia has seen what economists describe as a ‘Great Divergence,’ reversing the gains of earlier decades. Today, the top 1 per cent of income earners receive nearly 10 per cent of national income, nearly doubling their share from 40 years ago. Wealth inequality is even more extreme, with the richest fifth owning more than 60 times the wealth of the bottom fifth.

This widening gap is not just economic – it profoundly affects people’s everyday lives. Those at the bottom face greater health challenges, including a stark difference in life expectancy – Australians in the richest fifth of the population live an average of 6 years longer than those in the poorest fifth. The poorest Australians have 7 fewer teeth on average due to poor dental care. In education, the wealth gap translates into substantial resource disparities between affluent and poorer communities.

Why inequality matters

Inequality does not simply represent a difference in wealth; it shapes our society. Excessive inequality erodes social cohesion, reducing empathy and undermining community bonds. When wealth is concentrated among a few, society becomes fragmented. Our sense of collective responsibility diminishes, and the fabric that binds us as Australians weakens.

Catholic social teaching stresses the inherent dignity of every person, the importance of community, and the imperative to act justly towards one another. From Pope Francis’ call for inclusive economies to teachings on the common good, Catholic faith underscores the urgency of addressing rising inequality.

For too many Australians, the promise of a fair go – the belief that effort and hard work determine success, not birth or background – has felt increasingly out of reach. Inequality is not just an abstract economic issue; it affects our communities, our health, our opportunities, and our sense of national cohesion.

No government is perfect, but I want to argue today that ours has done more to address inequality than any government in well over a decade.

Taking office 3 years ago, on the tail of the Covid pandemic, we have acted decisively to ensure that prosperity is shared more fairly across our society.

Lifting wages and supporting secure work

One of the most direct ways to reduce inequality is by lifting wages and ensuring job security. Since coming to office, the Albanese government has delivered consecutive wage increases for 2.6 million Australians, particularly benefiting low‑ and middle‑income earners. These pay rises ensured that minimum wage workers were not left behind as the cost of living rises.

Furthermore, our government has tackled insecure work by introducing stronger protections for casual employees who want to transition to permanent work, establishing minimum standards for gig economy workers, and enforcing ‘same job, same pay’ provisions to prevent labour hire workers from being exploited. These reforms help ensure that Australians can rely on stable incomes, reducing the financial precarity that fuels inequality.

A fairer tax system

Tax policy plays a crucial role in shaping economic fairness. The Albanese government has delivered tax cuts that benefit every Australian taxpayer, allowing people to keep more of what they earn while ensuring that the system remains progressive.

This approach contrasts with our predecessors, whose tax policies disproportionately benefited the highest earners, widening the gap between rich and poor. By maintaining a fair and responsible tax structure, we can fund essential public services while ensuring that the most fortunate Australians contribute their fair share.

Strengthening the social safety net

A strong, targeted welfare system is essential to reducing inequality, and our government has taken decisive action to support those who need it most. We have increased JobSeeker and other income support payments, ensuring that Australians doing it tough can afford the basics. Recognising the unique challenges faced by older Australians, we have also expanded eligibility for higher JobSeeker rates for those over 55, providing more security and dignity in later years.

Rent assistance has been increased by over 40 per cent, helping Australians struggling with rising housing costs. Single parents have received greater support through extended access to the parenting payment, making it easier for them to balance work and caregiving responsibilities without falling into poverty. These targeted measures lift Australians up rather than trapping them in cycles of disadvantage.

Investing in affordable housing

Housing inequality is one of the most pressing economic issues facing Australia today. The Albanese government has responded with the largest investment in social and affordable housing in more than a decade. Through the Housing Australia Future Fund, we are building over 55,000 new social and affordable homes, directly addressing homelessness and housing stress.

Beyond construction, we have strengthened renters’ rights, introducing minimum rental standards, limiting rent increases to once per year, and requiring genuine grounds for eviction. By making renting fairer and ensuring more Australians have access to stable, affordable housing, we are creating a foundation for economic security and social mobility.

Early childhood education and skills training

Breaking the cycle of inequality starts with education. That’s why we have delivered cheaper childcare for 96 per cent of families with children in early education – an investment that not only reduces financial strain but also ensures that more children, regardless of their family’s income, start life with the educational support they need.

In schools, we have delivered on the promise of the Gonski report by ensuring that all schools are funded to the schooling resource standard. This isn’t just about money, it’s about delivering the resources required to drive reform. We know that Australia’s OECD PISA scores have been slipping backwards for the past quarter‑century. If we do not turn this around, the most vulnerable stand to suffer most.

Our government has also committed to over half a million fee‑free TAFE places, ensuring that Australians can gain the skills needed for secure, well‑paying jobs. By making education more accessible, we are expanding opportunities for people from all backgrounds, ensuring that no one is locked out of good jobs because they cannot afford the necessary training.

Fairer pay for women

We cannot talk about overall economic inequality without considering gender inequality. The Albanese government has delivered historic pay rises for aged care and early childhood education workers – sectors dominated by women – while expanding paid parental leave to 26 weeks by 2026 and adding superannuation to government‑paid parental leave. These measures help to close the gender wealth gap, ensuring that women are not financially penalised for caring responsibilities. The gender pay gap is still too high, but it is also at an all‑time low.

Tackling the cost of living

Inequality is exacerbated when basic essentials become unaffordable. That’s why we have delivered targeted cost‑of‑living relief, including $300 in energy bill relief for every household and cheaper medicines that allow millions of Australians to buy 2 months’ worth of prescription medication for the price of one. We have also ensured that HECS‑HELP loans will never grow faster than wages, reducing the financial burden on young Australians starting their careers.

Another major reform is our work in the energy sector. By expanding investment in renewable energy and breaking down barriers to new market entrants, we are reducing energy costs for consumers while ensuring a transition to a cleaner economy. High energy prices disproportionately impact low‑income Australians, and our efforts to foster a more competitive and efficient energy market are directly reducing cost‑of‑living pressures.

Historically, reducing inflation in Australia meant higher unemployment. In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, bouts of inflation were met by job losses. Often, it took a recession to bring prices under control. Yet this time is different. Uniquely in Australian history, we have brought inflation under control while maintaining what economists call ‘full employment’. We have tamed inflation while creating over one million jobs. Unemployment remains low, and the participation rate is at a record high. This is a remarkable achievement for our nation.

Investing in health equity

Health disparities are one of the most damaging consequences of inequality, with lower‑income Australians facing shorter life expectancies and higher rates of chronic illness. Our government has made the largest investment in bulk billing in Medicare’s history, restoring affordable access to GPs for millions of Australians. We have also established new urgent care clinics and expanded mental health services, ensuring that healthcare is based on need, not wealth.

Competition reforms to reduce inequality

A truly fair economy is one where businesses compete on a level playing field, ensuring that consumers and small businesses are not left behind. Monopolies increase inequality by transferring resources from consumers (the many) to shareholders (the few). The Albanese government has prioritised competition reform to prevent market concentration from deepening inequality.

One of our key achievements has been strengthening competition in the grocery sector. By increasing regulatory oversight and cracking down on anti‑competitive behaviour by major supermarket chains, we are ensuring fairer prices at the checkout. We know that when competition declines, consumers pay more, and smaller businesses struggle. Our policies ensure that Australian families are not subject to artificially inflated food prices while smaller retailers have a fair chance to succeed.

Through the biggest overhaul of merger laws in half a century and a revitalised National Competition Policy, we are putting downward pressure on prices and increasing fairness. This approach reflects our commitment to an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top.

A commitment to evidence‑based solutions

A key principle of our government is ensuring that policies are grounded in evidence, not ideology. That is why we have created the Australian Centre for Evaluation, and committed to expanding the use of randomised trials in policymaking, ensuring that every dollar spent on social programs delivers real results. By rigorously evaluating what works, we can scale up the most effective initiatives, ensuring that public investment leads to meaningful reductions in inequality.

Conclusion: a shared moral and national imperative

Inequality is a profound challenge – but not insurmountable. Australian history reminds us that inequality is never inevitable. It expands or shrinks based on the decisions we make collectively as a society.

There is much more to do, but I have given you a flavour today of what we have already done together. The Albanese government has chosen to lift wages, invest in housing and education, strengthen social protections, reform competition, and deliver targeted cost‑of‑living relief. These policies lift people up – not just economically, but socially and morally.

As the Gospel of Matthew reminds us, true compassion is measured by our actions towards ‘the least of these.’ We must constantly ask ourselves: Are our policies fair? Are our communities inclusive? Is every Australian being given the chance to thrive?

The Albanese government is committed to answering these questions positively – not just with words, but through meaningful action. Together, we can create a society where dignity, justice, and opportunity are the lived reality for every Australian.

MIL OSI News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Address to the Corones’ Law Competition Reform event, Sydney
Source: Australian Treasurer

I acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation. I pay my respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to First Nations people taking part in today’s event.

Fresh out of law school, I had the privilege of working as one of Justice Michael Kirby’s High Court associates. I answered the phone, put thousands of letters in envelopes, made hundreds of cups of Ceylon Orange Pekoe tea and occasionally had the chance to do some legal research (Leigh 2016).

One of the things I learned was that lawyers would be lost without resources like Corones’ Competition Law (Svetiev 2023). Pages dog‑eared and tabbed to death, Corones is a trusted source of how the courts have ruled and how arguments have been won and lost.

Corones texts also stand as a record of reform. Over many editions, it has captured everything from judgments on the original 1974 legislation, to reforms allowing third parties to access infrastructure in the 1990s, to the introduction of criminal cartel sanctions in the 2000s.

And today, a new round of competition reforms takes shape. This includes the new merger regime – the largest shakeup of Australia’s merger settings in half a century. And it includes a revitalised National Competition Policy agenda. These are the 2 areas I want to cover today, with a focus on the microdata underpinning these macro reforms.

Building an innovative economy

Ultimately, competition reform is about improving the long‑term prosperity of the Australian people. This means getting the policy settings right if we want to build a stronger, more resilient and dynamic economy.

Think of the end‑game as more like Lego than Monopoly. In Monopoly, one person gets everything while everyone else watches in frustration. In Lego, all the players get to build something – though in both cases, stepping on a piece can be painful.

As US congressman Jake Auchincloss put it, ‘Everybody, when they think about playing with Legos, has this sense of creativity and empowerment.’ (Klein 2025)

Competitive markets help ensure Australians pay fair prices for goods and services (Leigh 2024a). Without competition, businesses can charge whatever they like – kind of like airport food courts, where a ham and cheese sandwich requires a mortgage.

Competition also promotes choice and freedom.

The challenge is Australia’s competitiveness has been declining since the 2000s, while market concentration has nearly doubled since 2010 (Chalmers and Leigh 2024).

Using microdata to get a better picture

The Australian Government’s establishment of a Competition Taskforce within the Treasury in 2023 reflects the importance we place on competition reform and finding solutions.

In just over a year, the Competition Taskforce has made significant contributions.

This includes using microdata to identify competition issues and develop tailored policy and regulatory responses (Leigh 2024b).

For example, the Competition Taskforce has relied on data to:
- develop a robust evidence base on the prevalence and use of non‑compete clauses in Australian labour contracts to inform policy (Andrews and Jarvis 2023, ABS 2024)
- provide new and powerful insights into how competition can reduce airfares (Majeed, Breunig and Domazet 2024)
- explain patterns and trends in mergers and show how competition has declined in Australia (Competition Taskforce 2024).
Understanding competition

Unit‑level records that track businesses and households over time allow granular analysis of the way policies are influencing the economy.

Using bigger datasets, more refined econometric techniques and most up to date theories, economists have provided new insights on trends in market concentration and the relationship between competition and productivity.

For example, researchers found an increase in market power partly explained Australia’s productivity growth slowdown. Industries with the greatest increase in concentration also had the greatest increases in markups (Hambur 2021).

In this context, high‑growth firms act like Lego builders in the economy – constantly assembling, adapting, and expanding their creations. Rather than dominating like a monopoly, these firms thrive by snapping together innovative ideas, new markets, and fresh talent, driving the majority of turnover and employment growth.

Typically small and young, they grow by more than 20 per cent over a three‑year period, often reshaping the landscape and challenging the older, more rigid structures of established incumbents. Think of them as the startups disrupting the economy – just as streaming services disrupted DVDs, Uber disrupted taxis, and toddlers disrupt your ability to get a full night’s sleep. As vital builders of sales and employment, a decline in high growth firms can lead to a less dynamic, less flexible economy (Majeed et al., 2021).

Concentration hot spots

The Competition Taskforce is working with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to develop a microdata screening tool to identify concentration hot spots. This innovative tool leverages the increasingly detailed geospatial data that the Australian Bureau of Statistics has added to its microdata assets.

The resulting tool will identify regions or segments of the economy that are already very concentrated, where further market consolidation through mergers and acquisitions poses the greatest risk to competition. Concentration hotspots are like a heat map of where Monopoly is being played a little too well, allowing policymakers to find solutions before someone tries to build hotels on every property.

The Taskforce’s use of administrative data to systematically understand economic activity at the local level will be a novel approach to competition policy both in Australia and among our peers. It will complement the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s thorough knowledge of markets developed through its many inquiries and day‑to‑day experience administering the competition laws.

This hot‑spot tool should help the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission administer the new merger system and inform decisions about the sectors requiring mandatory notification. After all, if a Monopoly player already owns Park Place (or Park Lane), it’s best for the other players that they don’t own all the other dark blue properties. When monopolists dominate the board, it can be expensive for everyone else in the economy to move forward.

These examples showcase how increased availability of microdata has transformed the way we can use empirical evidence in the policy decision making process: to better identify issues, understand the problems, and develop effective and targeted solutions.

Microdata gives us the tools and understanding to target policies.

National Competition Policy

Building a more productive, dynamic and resilient economy and giving Australian consumers access to a wider range of higher quality products and services at lower prices from across the country and overseas requires collaboration and trust.

That is why Australian, state and territory governments have been working together to coordinate competition reform efforts under a revitalised National Competition Policy agenda.

Almost 30 years ago, states, territories and the Commonwealth agreed to put competition policy front and centre by agreeing to the National Competition Policy following the Hilmer Report. This was the era of economic reform, as well as grunge music, dial‑up internet, Blockbuster video rentals, Tamagotchis, and arguing over whether Ross and Rachel were really on a break.

The original Hilmer reforms outlined a set of competition principles that transformed our economy in ways we largely take for granted today. These included structural reform of public monopolies, introducing competitive neutrality so that government businesses do not enjoy unfair advantages over their private peers, arrangements for third‑party access to nationally significant infrastructure, and an obligation on all governments to review and reform laws that restrict competition.

These reforms, which focused on removing regulatory barriers in the non‑traded sector, were credited with boosting Australia’s GDP by 2.5 per cent – equivalent to around $5,000 per household per year today. That’s basically the economic equivalent of finding an extra $50 in your jeans – twice a week, every week.

Commonwealth, state and territory treasurers agreed in November to revitalise National Competition Policy to drive growth, improve choice and put downward pressure on prices (Chalmers 2024). Renewing the government’s commitment to put competition policy front and centre once again but tailored for the new challenges and opportunities of the modern economy – we’re now a digital economy, we’re looking for ways to make the transition to net zero at least cost, and we have a growing care and support economy.

We have also updated the original National Competition Principles to drive better outcomes for the community, requiring governments to consider the competition impacts of government decisions and establish protections against poorly managed privatisations, empower consumers and address remaining barriers to the movement of goods, services and workers across the country.

Competition reform isn’t straightforward. If it was easy, past governments would have done it already. Competition reform can be like assembling flat‑pack furniture – you know it’ll be worth it in the end, but along the way, there’s a lot of frustration and some pieces don’t seem to fit where they should.

Trajectory of the government’s competition reforms

This recommits governments to a new wave of pro‑competitive reforms over the next decade. Work is already underway on a first tranche of 5 priority reforms to ease the cost‑of‑living pressure and reduce regulatory complexity. The 5 pillars are:
- Streamlining commercial planning and zoning systems to improve competition by encouraging firm entry and expansion and reducing business and regulatory costs.
- Lowering barriers to the adoption of international and overseas standards in regulation. As a first step, we are fast‑tracking the recognition of equivalent or superior overseas product safety standards, rather than relying only on domestic standards, to deliver safer and cheaper products. Following this, we will be working collaboratively to identify the priority sectors for the next phase of this reform.
- Supporting modern methods of construction such as prefab and modular by levelling the regulatory playing field with traditional methods of construction, unlocking time and cost savings, overcoming labour shortages and boosting lagging construction productivity.
- A nationally consistent worker screening check to boost labour mobility for care workers.
- Developing broader rights to repair, including for agricultural products, which could reduce repair costs and waste by providing consumers and businesses more choice for repair services.
State and territory reforms are backed by the government’s $900 million National Productivity Fund. This allows for the fiscal benefits of these reforms – which mostly flow to the Commonwealth – to be shared with those states and territories that choose to implement them. The idea is to encourage states and territories to undertake meaningful reforms for the benefit of the Australian people and the economy.

And this is just the start. The government will continue to work closely with industry and state and territories to build a more productive economy through national pro‑competitive reform options.

Further reform rounds will be informed by community consultation and the Productivity Commission’s 5 new inquiries.

They include inquiries into:
- creating a more dynamic and resilient economy
- building a skilled and adaptable workforce
- harnessing data and digital technology
- delivering quality care more efficiently, and
- investing in cheaper, cleaner energy and the net zero transformation.
Significant benefits flow from National Competition Policy

Significant benefits will flow from a revitalised National Competition Policy.

To help us understand the magnitude of the benefits, the Productivity Commission modelled the impact of 19 potential competition reforms (Productivity Commission 2024).

The Productivity Commission estimated that a revitalised National Competition Policy could result in an ongoing boost to GDP of up to $45 billion, an increase of up to $5,000 for every Australian household per year as well as lower prices by an estimated 0.7 to 1.5 per cent in the long run. This is significant. It is an enduring benefit for consumers, businesses and the economy. On‑par with the highly successful reform efforts of the 1990s and 2000s.

And the benefits of the reforms extend beyond their economic effect. For example, reforms in the care and support economy would increase the quality of care in areas such as health and disability support.

There is tough reform work to be done, but the benefits of delivering meaningful reform speak for themselves.

Closing remarks

I’d like to leave you with this final thought.

When Danish carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen created his iconic company almost a century ago, he named it LEGO after the Danish phrase ‘leg godt’, which means ‘play well’ (LEGO n.d).

Christiansen understood that openness, rather than monopolistic drive, enabled dynamic, productive and constructive play that benefitted everyone involved.

Instead of a blood sport where players knocked each other out one by one, participants benefitted when they could create, learn, collaborate and share ideas.

Today, Lego is the world’s most popular toy, with consumers buying over 30 billion blocks per year.

Raising my 3 sons, I found that an afternoon spent playing Lego inspired creativity and laughter. Our evenings spent playing Monopoly often ended in tears.

In much the same way, we are all grappling with changes that are shifting the parameters of the playing field. The digital economy and transition to net zero are equivalent to that moment in time that Congressman Auchincloss described as ‘…throwing the board’, when people ‘get so frustrated that another person – out of, frankly, pure luck – ends up on Park Place and is able to just extract rents every time you cross or you pass go’ (Klein 2025).

Through microdata‑driven analysis of market concentration, revitalised National Competition Policy, and the continuation of productive collaboration between the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, competition should foster innovation and opportunity. More Lego, less Monopoly.

MIL OSI News –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bedrock Forms Partnership with Pentabase to Target the Korean Market
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SEOUL, South Korea, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bedrock, the world’s first multi-asset liquidity restaking protocol, has announced a partnership with Pentabase, a leading Web3 marketing firm in Korea.
- Entered into a partnership with Pentabase, a leading Web3 marketing firm in Korea.
- Focused on expanding Bedrock’s brand awareness and activating the community in the Korean market
- A representative stated, “We plan to introduce Bedrock’s innovative restaking solutions to Korean users.”
The partnership is focused on expanding Bedrock’s brand awareness and activating its community in the Korean market, with plans to aggressively pursue business initiatives targeting the region.

Bedrock, supported by OKX Ventures, Babylon co-founders, and other major investors, is pioneering the multi-asset liquidity restaking space. Initially launching uniETH on EigenLayer, it is now breaking new ground in the Bitcoin liquidity staking market with uniBTC. uniBTC is a Bitcoin-based liquidity staking token designed to allow BTC holders to earn rewards while maintaining liquidity.

Currently, Bedrock has over $500 million in Total Value Locked (TVL), supporting assets including uniBTC, brBTC, uniETH, and uniIOTX. Through integrations with EigenLayer, Babylon, and IoTeX, it provides enhanced yields and security across chains.

To build customized yield strategies for uniBTC holders, Bedrock collaborates with Uniswap, Curve, Compound, Pendle, Corn Protocol, Gearbox, and Morpho, and has partnered with key grant providers such as Arbitrum, Optimism, and Zeta Chain.

As the finality provider for Babylon’s Cap1 program via RockX, Bedrock leverages five years of node operation experience to ensure low gas fees and zero slashing risks. This technical advantage helped Bedrock capture a 30% market share in Babylon’s Phase1 staking and achieve the highest points per stake in Cap2 performance, establishing itself as a market leader.

Bedrock’s brBTC, with over $140 million in TVL, is redefining Bitcoin’s utility in the BTCFi 2.0 era. By enabling cross-protocol restaking of Bitcoin derivatives, brBTC addresses liquidity fragmentation through unified strategies, expands income opportunities via multi-protocol access, and maximizes ecosystem efficiency through secure cross-platform integration, playing a key role in the BTCFi market.

Additionally, Bedrock’s robust security solutions, including audits from respected firms such as Peckshield and Blocksec, Chainlink integration, and 24/7 real-time monitoring, further strengthen asset protection.

Pentabase, a leading Web3 marketing firm in Korea, specializes in the development and execution of marketing strategies for Web3 and blockchain projects, helping global blockchain projects enter the Korean market. With this partnership, Pentabase will focus on enhancing Bedrock’s brand value and effectively communicating its restaking solutions to local users.

A Bedrock representative stated, “Korea is one of the key global markets with strong interest in blockchain and DeFi. Through this collaboration with Pentabase, we plan to engage more closely with the Korean community and introduce Bedrock’s innovative restaking solutions.”

Contact Information

Company Name: PENTABASE
Contact Person: Noah
Email: info@pentabase.io
Company Website: https://pentabase.io/

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by PENTABASE. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7153dd9-de99-4c0b-8919-e8a4728b5ee5

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1847c5c5-40ff-4597-9cb9-196f6ff6085e

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a692a435-40de-4280-be6f-738db5b1c03a

The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: ASIC commences proceedings against FIIG for cybersecurity failures

Source: Allens Insights

Failing to protect against cybersecurity risks 6 min read

ASIC has announced it has commenced civil penalty proceedings against FIIG Securities Limited (FIIG) for allegedly failing over four years to protect itself and its clients from cybersecurity risks. Specifically, ASIC claims FIIG failed to:

provide financial services efficiently, honestly and fairly;
have adequate resources (financial, technological and human) to ensure appropriate cybersecurity measures and comply with its legal obligations; and
have adequate risk management systems,

in contravention of sections 912A(1)(a), (d), and (h), and 912A(5A) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

ASIC’s enforcement action against FIIG is consistent with its current enforcement priorities, namely, to ensure licensees have in place adequate cybersecurity protections. ASIC Chair Joe Longo has also emphasised the importance of ‘proactively and regularly’ checking the adequacy of cybersecurity measures and following the advice of the Australian Signals Directorate’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC).

Background

FIIG holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) and specialises in fixed-income products and services. It collects and maintains personal information on clients and held significant assets on their behalf.

ASIC claims that, due to the nature of FIIG’s business and the data it held, FIIG was at ‘real risk’ of cyber intrusion, which could lead to data breaches, financial loss and an inability to access data, provide services or operate its network or systems.

ASIC alleges that, despite this risk, FIIG failed to have adequate cybersecurity measures in place and failed to implement the controls identified in its risk management system to mitigate cybersecurity risks. This culminated in a cyber intrusion in May 2023 where 385GB of data is alleged to have been stolen (affecting approximately 18,000 individual customers), some of which was published on the dark web. ASIC alleges FIIG became aware of this intrusion when the ACSC alerted FIIG that its systems may have been compromised on 2 June 2023. It is alleged that FIIG was not aware the intrusion had occurred before this alert.

ASIC alleges FIIG did not investigate and respond to the incident until 8 June, almost a week after it had been notified of the potential malicious activity by the ACSC.

ASIC has published its Concise statement and Originating process. The likely next steps in the proceeding will involve a detailed statement of claim filed by ASIC and a defence filed by FIIG, unless the parties are able to agree on a statement of agreed facts and admissions.

Takeaways

This is the second time ASIC has commenced proceedings for a failure to have adequate cybersecurity systems in place—the first being in relation to RI Advice in August 2020. These new proceedings demonstrate ASIC’s evolving approach to cyber risk management since it brought proceedings against RI Advice. ASIC’s articulation of expected technical security measures in the FIIG proceedings is more prescriptive than its expectations around ‘adequate cybersecurity documentation and controls’ presented in the RI Advice proceedings. Whilst director compliance in relation to cybersecurity remains a priority for ASIC, no proceedings have yet been commenced against FIIG directors or other officers.

The cybersecurity measures ASIC suggests should have been implemented are consistent with many of those identified by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner in recent civil penalty proceedings brought against Australian Clinical Labs and Medibank, as well as in class action proceedings brought against Optus and Medibank.

A comparison of security measures class action plaintiffs and regulators have alleged are required in these proceedings is available here.

The fact FIIG was allegedly alerted to the issue by the ACSC (ie it was not detected internally) was likely compounded by the alleged six-day delay between the ACSC’s alert (2 June 2023) and FIIG’s investigation of the potential malicious activity (8 June 2023). ASIC claims that if FIIG had had adequate cybersecurity measures in place, it would have detected suspicious activity well before the ACSC notified it. ASIC suggests FIIG should have had in place:

endpoint detection and response software that was monitored on a daily basis by a person with sufficient skills, training and experience to identify and respond to any unusual network activity; and
a cyber incident response plan which addressed: (i) the action to be taken, key roles and responsibilities of FIIG personnel, and regulatory notification requirements, in the event of a cybersecurity event; (ii) incident detection and analysis; and (iii) incident response (containment, eradication and recovery).

ASIC alleges FIIG’s risk management systems were inadequate because they failed to implement and maintain necessary cybersecurity measures. Even though FIIG had a risk management system (which included an IT Information Security Policy and Cyber and Information Security Policy), ASIC claims FIIG failed to implement measures identified in those policies. Regulators have repeatedly emphasised the importance of ensuring the operating effectiveness of risk management systems (ie that they are adhered to, and that compliance is monitored and enforced), in addition to design effectiveness.

ASIC expects that: (i) AFSL holders will employ or outsource to people with the skills, knowledge and experience in IT security to ensure adequate cybersecurity measures are implemented; (ii) one or more persons will be assigned the responsibility for doing so; and (iii) that those responsible are given sufficient time to properly discharge their responsibility. In this case, ASIC alleges FIIG overly relied on its Chief Operating Officer and IT infrastructure team, which had competing responsibilities.

ASIC’s concise statement is instructive as to the regularity with which it currently expects organisations (at least those of similar circumstances to FIIG) to implement certain technical controls:

Activity	Regularity / timeframes
Testing of cyber incident response plan	Annually.
Monitoring of Endpoint Detection and Response (*EDR*) software	Daily.
Application of patches and software updates	Within one month of release of patch or update for critical or high importance patches. Within three months of release of patch or update for all other patches.
Storage of logs	Online for at least 90 days. In an electronic archive for at least 12 months.
Mandatory security awareness training	At onboarding, and then annually.
Review and evaluation of effectiveness of technical cybersecurity controls	Quarterly.
Review of event logs by Security Administrator	Every 90 days.

Declarations and orders

ASIC is seeking:

declarations: that FIIG failed to:
1. have adequate resources (financial, technological and human) to ensure appropriate cybersecurity measures and comply with its legal obligations;
2. have adequate risk management systems; and
3. as a consequence of the failures above, failed to do all things necessary to ensure the financial services covered by FIIG’s licence were provided efficiently, honestly and fairly,
in contravention of sections 912A(1)(a), (d), and (h), and 912A(5A) of the Corporations Act.

a pecuniary penalty: in respect of each of FIIG’s alleged contraventions of the Corporations Act (and where, for each contravention, the maximum civil penalty for companies is the greater of (i) 50,000 penalty units ($13.75 million at the time), (ii) three times the benefit obtained and detriment avoided, and (iii) 10% of annual turnover, capped at 2.5 million penalty units ($687.5 million at the time)).
a compliance order: that FIIG complete a compliance program involving review of its cybersecurity measures and commission an independent expert to report on those measures to ASIC, in such form as the court thinks fit.
that FIIG pay ASIC’s costs.

MIL OSI News –

March 19, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: Soundcheck for survival: Regional live music venues burnt out by industry struggles

Source: University of South Australia

19 March 2025

Small live music venue operators across regional Australia face personal and financial strain as they work to keep their doors open and sustain thriving music cultures in their communities.

A study by the University of South Australia has found that regional live music venue operators are experiencing stress and burnout as they face challenges with audience access and fairly paying performing artists.

It’s estimated that in the four years since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, Australia has lost more than 1300 live music venues and stages due to a steep increase in public liability costs and rising rent and energy prices.

This is coupled with the current cost-of-living crisis that has severely impacted venues’ bottom line and altered the spending habits of audiences, slowing both ticket and bar sales.

While there has been high-profile media attention recently about the closure of several metropolitan venues, less attention is paid to small live music venues in country towns.

Researcher Dr Rosie Roberts, along with Dr Sam Whiting of RMIT University, interviewed almost a dozen venue operators from regional South Australia in 2020-21 as part of a larger research project that informed the State Government’s Live Music Support Package.

Dr Roberts, a member of UniSA’s Creative People, Products and Places Research Centre, says live music venues in regional areas often involve high levels of volunteer labour, investing a lot of time for little financial gain.

“Many venue operators are undertaking a significant amount of the labour that’s involved for free, because they’re driven by a desire to develop and sustain a music culture in their region,” she says.

“The people we interviewed often described feelings of burnout and exhaustion and said they were the last to get paid, if paid at all, once they had ensured that the musicians were appropriately compensated.

“This can produce a churning cycle of music events which is difficult to sustain as operators become tired and need to step away. It’s very difficult to keep operations going in the medium to long term and this can fracture the development of regional music and produce short-term pockets of activity.”

Regional venues face unique challenges due to the smaller resident populations which then limit the size of bands playing, the frequency of shows and the amount that can be paid to musicians. The costs associated with travel and transport are also an issue.

While regulatory issues such as licensing and noise are often the main challenges for city-based live music venues, the issues faced by regional areas are different, Dr Roberts says.

“Regional venues face issues with accessibility and affordability of high-quality acts that attract audiences, as well as encouraging audiences to regularly attend and spend the money required to sustain such gigs, especially in the context of rising cost of living pressures,” she says.

The research study found that despite having different needs to metropolitan venues, regional venue operators often experience a lack of a voice in decision making around music policy.

Dr Roberts says solutions could include localised approaches such as continued town or regional art strategies, music feedback forums that connect city-based policy makers with regional stakeholders and the development of a regional live music policy.

She also suggests the appointment of regional live music officers, and dedicated funding schemes for small and medium sized venues in regional areas.

“Regional live music venues perform a critical function for their communities because they provide spaces of sociality, belonging, education and skill development, so it’s important we provide a healthy and sustainable live music scene for our regional centres and towns.” Dr Roberts says.

“Small live music venues are where emerging musicians first engage in music making, yet they also continue their connection with the regions throughout their lives. This makes them vital to an artist’s development both creatively and professionally.”

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Contact for interview: Dr Rosie Roberts, Senior Lecturer, UniSA Creative E: rosie.roberts@unisa.edu.au

Media contact: Melissa Keogh, Communications Officer, UniSA M: +61 403 659 154 E: melissa.keogh@unisa.edu.au

MIL OSI News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Partners with Cryptorefills to Enable Crypto Travel Payments in 180 Countries

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has partnered with Cryptorefills to enable seamless crypto payments for travel. Users can now book flights, hotels, and other services using Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, USDC, and more, eliminating the need for fiat conversions and making digital assets more practical for everyday spending.

Cryptorefills is now accessible as a DApp within Bitget Wallet’s “Spend with Crypto” section, allowing users to pay for travel and other essential services directly from their wallets. Beyond flights and hotels, users can purchase gift cards, top up mobile credit, and access gaming services from major brands. This integration streamlines crypto transactions across global merchants, bringing real-world utility to digital assets.

As a global crypto payment platform operating in over 180 countries, Cryptorefills supports more than 5,000 brands across travel, telecom, and retail. “Our mission is to make cryptocurrency a seamless payment method for everyday use,” said Massimiliano Silenzi, CEO of Cryptorefills. “Partnering with Bitget Wallet extends our reach, allowing millions of users to pay for travel and other services directly with their crypto holdings.“

“Travel is a natural use case for crypto, offering a borderless payment experience,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “This partnership with Cryptorefills accelerates our vision for PayFi, making digital assets more accessible and practical in the real world. We will continue expanding our ecosystem to drive the next phase of crypto-powered financial innovation.”

This partnership is part of Bitget Wallet’s PayFi strategy to integrate crypto earning, sending, and spending into a unified onchain financial system. PayFi aims to make crypto payments frictionless and widely accepted by building a network of merchants and payment partners across industries. Alongside in-app shopping and upcoming QR code and POS integrations, Bitget Wallet is advancing crypto payment’s role in mainstream commerce.

To celebrate the partnership, Bitget Wallet and Cryptorefills are launching a cashback campaign from March 17 to 23, 2025. Users who book flights, hotels, or buy gift cards with crypto via Bitget Wallet on Cryptorefills will earn 5% cashback, up to $5 per user, limited to 1,000 redemptions on a first-come, first-served basis.

About Bitget Wallet
Bitget Wallet is the home of Web3, uniting endless possibilities in one non-custodial wallet. With over 60 million users, it offers comprehensive onchain services, including asset management, instant swaps, rewards, staking, trading tools, live market data, a DApp browser, an NFT marketplace and crypto payment. Supporting over 100 blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and 500,000+ tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges, along with a $300+ million protection fund to ensure safety of users’ assets. Experience Bitget Wallet Lite to start a Web3 journey.

For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

For media inquiries, please contact media.web3@bitget.com

About Cryptorefills
Cryptorefills empowers people in over 180 countries to meet their everyday needs by purchasing products and services with cryptocurrency. From topping up mobile credit and purchasing gift cards from the world’s leading brands to booking flights across 300 airlines and stays across over 1 million hotels and properties, Cryptorefills offers a seamless blockchain-purchase experience. As an early adopter of the Bitcoin Lightning Network and the first ecommerce in the world to adopt Ethereum Layer 2 and scalable blockchain stablecoin payments, Cryptorefills is leading the innovation in decentralized payments. Headquartered in Amsterdam, Cryptorefills is a fast-growing fintech and a proud member of the Holland Fintech Association and Blockchain Netherlands Foundation.

For media inquiries, please contact media@cryptorefills.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/46213e2c-df96-49e4-a2d5-4d47e5991ae6

The MIL Network –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Wyden: Bipartisan Deliver for Democracy Act Will Help Get Crucial Local News into the Hands of Oregonians

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
March 18, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined Vermont’s U.S. Senator Peter Welch and South Dakota’s U.S. Senator Mike Rounds to reintroduce the bipartisan, bicameral Deliver for Democracy Act. This legislation would incentivize reliable service from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and limit excessive rate increases. In recent years, the USPS has raised rates for periodicals under the guise of increased efficiency and improved service, but the changes have not addressed persistent postal delays.
“Local papers are the backbones of our communities—they shine a light on the issues, large and small, that affect the daily lives of folks in Oregon and across the country. We must do all we can to protect local journalism—especially now,” said Merkley. “The bipartisan Deliver for Democracy Act is a critical piece of the puzzle of keeping local journalism alive by addressing the persistent local delivery delays that plague community news outlets and insisting on adequate service from USPS before any rate increases.”
“You can’t know what is going on in your backyard if you don’t have the information on hand. Local journalism is the lifeblood that helps protect American democracy, combat misinformation, and empower communities small or large,” said Wyden. “The Deliver for Democracy Act ensures that USPS makes deliveries on time so local journalism doesn’t become history. As the son of a journalist and as an elected official who holds townhalls each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties, I won’t stop fighting to help local journalism deliver news coverage right to your doorstep.”
The Deliver for Democracy Act is led in the House by U.S. Representatives Robert Aderholt (R-AL-04) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-05).
The Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act of 2006 established an inflation-based cap to annual price increases for all market-dominant postal products, including periodicals. In January 2021, the U.S. Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) finalized regulations that established three additional forms of rate authority, including one for non-compensatory classes of mail such as periodicals and package services. Under those regulations, USPS is provided an additional two percentage points of rate authority for any class or product of mail where costs exceed revenue. Since then, USPS has maximally exercised that authority and raised periodical postage rates by over 40 percent.
Despite such significant rate increases, however, the Postal Service has routinely failed to meet periodicals’ basic needs and achieve the 95 percent on-time delivery performance standard outlined in Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s 10-year plan. As a result, local news outlets, which must already navigate other existential challenges, are simultaneously subject to high distribution costs and poor service.
The Deliver for Democracy Act would:
Require USPS to either achieve at least a 95 percent on-time delivery rate for periodicals or an improvement of at least 2 percentage points to unlock its 2 percent surcharge authority for that class of mail;
Direct the USPS to annually report to the PRC on its progress in including on-time delivery data for newspapers in its periodical service performance measurement; and
Instruct the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study and submit a report to Congress on options for alternate USPS pricing schemes to improve the financial position of periodicals.
The Deliver for Democracy Act is endorsed by the National Newspaper Association and News/Media Alliance.
Click here to learn more about the Deliver for Democracy Act.
Read the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: International Anti-Money Laundering rule changes support government reforms

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee has welcomed changes to international anti-money laundering standards which closely align with the Government’s reforms.

“The Financial Action Taskforce (FATF) last month adopted revised standards for tackling money laundering and the financing of terrorism to allow for simplified regulatory measures for businesses, organisations and sectors that pose a lower risk of money laundering,” Mrs McKee says.

“This Government is committed to meeting its international obligations to address money laundering and organised crime and the damage they cause to New Zealand’s society and the international economy. But our anti-money laundering and countering financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) regime needs to recognise that a one-size-fits-all regulatory model places an undue regulatory burden on businesses, organisations and sectors that pose low risk.

“We’ve heard numerous stories about children, disabled and unhoused people, as well as the elderly struggling to get bank accounts; community groups being subjected to unreasonable scrutiny; and people being driven out of business because the AML/CFT settings do not encourage simplified measures where risks are lower.

“That is why we promoted these changes at FATF, and I’m pleased other FATF members have joined us in taking a common-sense approach. My AML/CFT reform work programme will implement the FATF’s new standard by, amongst other things, allowing simplified measures for low-risk activities and entities” Mrs McKee says.

“These changes are in line with FATF’s new best practice that countries should not only address their AML/CFT risks but also apply a risk-based approach to ensure that measures to target money laundering and terrorist financing don’t make it impossible for innocent people to access financial services. Our focus should be on knuckling down on organised criminals and fraudsters harming our communities, not wasting time and effort digging into the affairs of ordinary people and community groups.

“New Zealand’s experiences working to address the complex issues which make it harder and more expensive for our Pasifika communities to send money home has played an important part in changing the standards. The FATF has listened to our experience and moved to address the AML piece of the puzzle.

“This Government’s intended reforms aim to improve the regime and deliver regulatory relief, to support tackling organised crime and to improve New Zealand’s compliance with international standards. The changes will be part of a wider package of reform to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the AML/CFT regime for businesses, agencies, and ordinary New Zealanders.

“We are working hard to build efficient government structures to enable risk-based settings that empower common sense to stop wasting people’s time – and instead help businesses focus on the practical actions that they can take to help keep criminals out of our financial system.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 19, 2025

Category: Economy

Joint Statement from the International Partners Group on the US Withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition Partnership in South Africa

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