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Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI Global: Clownfish shrink during marine heatwaves – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Theresa Rueger, Senior Lecturer in Tropical Marine Biology, Newcastle University

    Clownfish that shrank during heatwaves were more likely to survive them. Morgan Bennett-Smith

    As the world contemplates dealing with more extreme temperatures, one coral reef fish has found a novel way to beat the heat: shrinking.

    Wanting to know how clownfish cope with changes to their environment, we repeatedly measured 134 wild fish in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea, during a marine heatwave that started in March 2023 and is part of an ongoing global mass coral bleaching event. Clownfish have unique markings, which make it easy to identify and measure them underwater.

    To our complete surprise, we found that 100 of the fish we measured shrank during our study from February to August 2023. Those that shrank had a better chance of surviving the heatwave.

    The clownfish, Amphiprion percula, lives in small social groups within anemones on coral reefs. As the movie Finding Nemo indicated, clownfish rarely, if ever, leave their host anemone because the anemone offers them protection from predators.

    Sadly, this also means that clownfish cannot move to cooler areas as marine heatwaves become more common on coral reefs due to rising global temperatures. Clownfish need other strategies to survive the heat.


    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.


    This is the first time that coral reef fish have been shown to shrink in response to heat stress. And by shrink, we don’t mean getting skinnier – we mean getting shorter.

    This is surprising because growth in vertebrates (animals with backbones, like us) is generally considered to be a one-way street. You get larger over time and you might stop growing if stressed or as you reach your maximum length, but it is rare to find vertebrates shrinking, especially over periods as short as a month, and in response to environmental conditions.

    It may also seem counter-intuitive to shrink. After all, smaller individuals are more prone to being eaten and they breed less. Here, however, being smaller increased the chances of survival for clownfish, possibly because smaller fish need less food and are typically more efficient at foraging and using oxygen, which is scarcer in hot water.

    Orange clownfish in a bleached anemone during the 2023 heatwave in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea.
    Morgan Bennett-Smith

    If you shrink, I shrink

    We found that there is a social component to shrinking and surviving a heatwave.

    A remarkable feature of clownfish social groups is that they maintain strict hierarchies based on size. This means growth – and shrinking – don’t just affect the individual in question, but also risks conflict within the group that could force a fish to be evicted, which usually leads to death. So, shrinking is a risky proposition.

    On each anemone the biggest clownfish is female, the second biggest is male, and together they form a breeding pair. To avoid fights in the pair, males control their growth to keep a fixed size ratio between the two.

    In our study, breeding pairs in which both fish shrank were more likely to survive the heatwave than if only one, or neither, fish shrank.

    We also found that those fish who shrank by a lot could catch up and grow rapidly when conditions improved. That means that it’s not just the shrinking that helps, but being able to shrink and grow flexibly to meet your needs.

    A breeding pair of clownfish. The large female is on the right and the smaller male on the left.
    Theresa Rueger

    While not all fish beat the heat and survived, none of the fish that shrank multiple times in our study died, and even shrinking once increased a clownfish’s survival probability during the heatwave by 78%.

    Our research didn’t investigate how clownfish do this, but studies on other vertebrates might give us clues. Marine iguanas on the Galápagos Islands for example shrink during El Niño years, when water temperatures in the eastern and central tropical Pacific Ocean warm. This reduces the amount of food and prompts the reptiles to shrink by absorbing part of their bones.

    The average size of many marine fish species around the globe is getting smaller according to long-term surveys. This could partly be a result of fishing removing larger fish from populations, as well as the warming climate altering the growth or maximum sizes of fish.

    If our finding of adult fish shrinking in response to environmental stress is more widespread, it could be another reason why fish in the world’s ocean are getting smaller.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.


    Theresa Rueger receives funding from The Leverhulme Trust and the Natural Environment Research Council UK.

    Chancey MacDonald receives funding from the Natural Envirnoment Research Council of UKRI.

    Melissa Versteeg receives funding from Murray Foundation UK, the Prins Bernard Cultuurfonds, the International Coral Reef Society and the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences at Newcastle University, UK.

    – ref. Clownfish shrink during marine heatwaves – new study – https://theconversation.com/clownfish-shrink-during-marine-heatwaves-new-study-257036

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rediscovering lost Gaelic words

    Source: Scottish Government

    Funding for Gaelic cultural projects.

    An online dictionary which has rediscovered lost Gaelic phrases and word meanings is one of 12 projects set to benefit from Scottish Government funding. 

    Faclair na Gàidhlig (the Historical Dictionary of Scottish Gaelic) seeks to provide a better understanding of Gaelic’s history and culture. It is the first dictionary of the language which aims to detail the origins and meanings of every known Gaelic word. Compilers expect that it will contain more than 100,000 entries. 

    As part of the initiative, researchers have investigated historical manuscripts dating back to the 12th Century.

    Rediscovered phrases and word meanings include: 

    • the phrase “Ciod fo na rionnagan” (“what under the stars”), which was used in the early 1900s to emphasise a point similar to “what on earth” 
    • the Gaelic word for prickly pear fruit, “peur stobach”, was first used in a letter documenting a visit to Saint Helena in 1900
    • “uircean”, which is the Gaelic word for “piglet”, also used to mean “whale calf” in the 1800s

    The investment will build on 20 years of work by helping Faclair na Gàidhlig to reach new audiences including learners, researchers, writers and speakers of Gaelic.

    Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic Kate Forbes announced the funding as part of a wider £500,000 package to support the language’s growth across Scotland. The investment will also support the publication of Gaelic language books, local mòd events throughout Scotland and Gaelic cultural activities including a summer school and musical events.

    Ms Forbes said:

    “The dictionary initiative is providing researchers, writers, speakers and learners of Gaelic with new insight into the language and it will be a valuable resource for future generations. 

    “Gaelic is a core part of Scotland’s culture, heritage and history. To support the language’s growth across Scotland, I am announcing funding for a range of Gaelic publishing, education, arts and community projects today.

    “This will build on measures set out in the Scottish Languages Bill to strengthen Gaelic education provision and our investment of £35.7 million in initiatives to promote the language in 2025-26.”

    Ola Szczesnowicz, Senior Editor of Faclair na Gàidhlig, said: 

    “Faclair na Gàidhlig will be the most comprehensive dictionary of Scottish Gaelic compiled on historical principles, similar to the Oxford English Dictionary. This is a big undertaking, and we welcome the Scottish Government’s funding to help continue our work. Our dictionary entries are already going online, freely available to Gaelic speakers and everyone interested in the language.”

    Background

    Audio clips to assist with the pronunciation of Gaelic words are available from LearnGaelic’s website online.

    Faclair na Gàidhlig is available to read online. 

    The initiative is based at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture. It involves the universities of Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Strathclyde. Scottish Government funding for Faclair na Gàidhlig is delivered through the Scottish Funding Council and Bòrd na Gàidhlig. 

    Organisations which will benefit from funding include:

    • Comunn na Gàidhlig, which has been allocated £134,190 to promote Scottish Gaelic language and culture
    • An Comunn Gàidhealach (organisers of the Royal National Mòd) will benefit from £74,000 to support the organisation of local mòd events
    • Fèisean nan Gàidheal (National Association of Scottish Gaelic Arts Youth Tuition Festivals) will be provided £37,000 to support Gaelic music
    • Tobar an Dualchais is to receive £35,000 to support the ongoing collection of online materials in Gaelic and Scots including songs, stories and rhythms
    • Ceòlas is to receive £30,000 to support Gaelic cultural activities including its summer school and musical events
    • Comhairle nan Leabhraichean (Gaelic Book Council), which will receive £49,000, and Acair Publishing, which will be provided £30,000, to support the publication of Gaelic books
    • Ainmean Àite na h-Alba (Gaelic Place-Names of Scotland) has been allocated £20,000 to continue its work as the national advisory partnership for Gaelic place-names in Scotland
    • Faclair na Gàidhlig will receive £17,500 to reach new audiences in collaboration with other Gaelic organisations
    • Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle (Islay Gaelic Centre) has been allocated £17,500 to host Gaelic classes, exhibitions and early years groups
    • Theatre gu Leòr will benefit from £10,000 to deliver Gaelic theatrical performances across Scotland

    Faclan Gàidhlig caillte air an lorg às ùr

    Maoineachadh airson pròiseactan cultarail Gàidhlig

    ’S e faclair air-loidhne a tha air abairtean is brìghean Gàidhlig caillte a lorg às ùr aon de 12 pròiseactan a tha gus buannachd fhaighinn à maoineachadh le Riaghaltas na h-Alba.

    Tha Faclair na Gàidhlig airson a bhith a’ toirt seachad tuigse nas fheàrr de dh’eachdraidh is cultar na Gàidhlig. ’S e a’ chiad fhaclair den chànan a bhios ag amas mìneachadh a thoirt seachad air tùs agus brìgh a h-uile facal Gàidhlig air a bheil eòlas againn. Tha an fheadhainn a tha an sàs san fhaclair an dùil gum bi còrr air 100,000 facal is abairt ann.

    Mar phàirt den iomairt, rinn luchd-rannsachaidh sgrùdadh air làmh-sgrìobhainnean a’ dol cho fada air ais ris an 12mh Linn.

    Am measg nan abairtean is brìghean a chaidh a lorg às ùr tha:

    • an abairt “Ciod fo na rionnagan”, a chaidh a chleachdadh tràth san 12mh Linn ann an seagh coltach ri “dè fon ghrèin” san latha an-diugh
    • chaidh “peur stobach” a chleachdadh son a’ chiad uair mar ainm Gàidhlig airson “prickly pear fruit” ann an litir ag aithris air turas gu St Helena ann an 1900
    • bha “uircean”, a tha mar as trice a’ ciallachadh muc òg, air a chleachdadh sna 1800an mar fhacal airson cuilean na muice-mara

    Bidh an tasgadh-airgid a’ togail air 20 bliadhna de dh’obair le bhith a’ cuideachadh Faclair na Gàidhlig ann a bhith a’ ruighinn luchd-leughaidh ùr – nam measg luchd-ionnsachaidh, luchd-rannsachaidh, sgrìobhadairean agus luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig.

    Chaidh maoineachadh a’ phròiseict fhoillseachadh leis an Leas-Phrìomh Mhinistear agus Rùnaire a’ Chaibineit airson na h-Eaconamaidh agus na Gàidhlig, Ceit Fhoirbeis, mar phàirt de phacaid nas motha luach £500,000 gus taic a chur ri fàs na Gàidhlig air feadh Alba.

    Cuiridh an tasgadh-airgid taic cuideachd ri bhith a’ foillseachadh leabhraichean Gàidhlig, a’ cumail thachartasan airson nam Mòd ionadail air feadh Alba is cuideachd cur-seachadan cultarail Gàidhlig – nam measg sgoil samhraidh agus tachartasan ciùil.

    Thuirt a’ Bh-uas. Fhoirbeis:

    “Tha iomairt an fhaclair a’ toirt sheallaidhean ùra air a’ chànan do luchd-rannsachaidh, luchd-labhairt agus luchd-ionnsachaidh is bidh e na stòras luachmhor do ghinealaichean ri thighinn.

    “Tha a’ Ghàidhlig na prìomh phàirt de chultar, dualchas agus eachdraidh na h-Alba. Gus taic a chur ri fàs a’ chànain, tha mi an-diugh a’ cur an cèill maoineachadh airson measgachadh de phròiseactan Gàidhlig ann am foillseachadh, foghlam, na h-ealainean agus aig ìre na coimhearsnachd.

    “Bidh seo a’ togail air na ceumannan a tha an lùib Bile nan Cànan Albannach gus foghlam Gàidhlig a neartachadh, agus cuideachd air an tasgadh-airgid as fhiach £35.7 millean a tha sinn a’ cur ri iomairtean gus an cànan a bhrosnachadh ann an 2025-26.”

    Thuirt Ola Szczesnowicz, Àrd-dheasaiche Fhaclair na Gàidhlig:

    “Bheir Faclair na Gàidhlig seachad am faclair as mionaidiche a chaidh a chruthachadh don Ghàidhlig a rèir phrionnsapalan eachdraidheil, coltach ri Faclair Eachdraidheil Oxford anns a’ Bheurla. ’S e obair mhòr a tha seo agus tha sinn a’ cur fàilte air maoineachadh Riaghaltas na h-Alba is e gar cuideachadh ann a bhith a’ leantainn na h-obrach. Tha faclan is abairtean an Fhaclair mu thràth a’ dol air-loidhne is iad ri fhaighinn gu saor an-asgaidh do luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig agus duine sam bith aig a bheil ùidh sa chànan.”

    Cùl-fhiosrachadh

    Gheibhear criomagan-fuaime air-loidhne aig LearnGaelic gus cuideachadh le bhith a’ fuaimneachadh nam facal Gàidhlig.

    ’S urrainnear Faclair na Gàidhlig a leughadh air-loidhne.

    ’S ann aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Ionad Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig, a tha an iomairt stèidhichte. Tha oilthighean Obar Dheathain, Dhùn Èideann, Ghlaschu agus Shrath Chluaidh an sàs sa phròiseact. Tha am maoineachadh a tha Riaghaltas na h-Alba a’ toirt dha Faclair na Gàidhlig air a thoirt seachad tro Chomhairle Mhaoineachaidh na h-Alba agus Bòrd na Gàidhlig.

    Am measg nam buidhnean a gheibh buannachd às a’ mhaoineachadh seo tha:

    • Chaidh £134,190 a chomharrachadh do Chomunn na Gàidhlig, gus cànan agus cultar na Gàidhlig a chur air adhart
    • Thèid £74,000 a thoirt don Chomunn Ghàidhealach (leis a bheil Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail) gus taic a chur ri bhith ag ullachadh tachartasan nam Mòd ionadail
    • Gheibh Fèisean nan Gàidheal £37,000 airson taic a chur ri ceòl Gàidhlig
    • Tha Tobar an Dualchais gus £35,000 fhaighinn gus taic a chur ris an obair leantainnich aca a’ cruinneachadh stuthan air-loidhne sa Ghàidhlig agus Albais. Am measg seo tha òrain, sgeulachdan agus ruitheaman
    • Tha Ceòlas gus £30,000 fhaighinn a chuireas taic ri cur-seachadan cultarail Gàidhlig mar an sgoil samhraidh aca
    • Acair, a gheibh £30,000, agus Comhairle nan Leabhraichean, a gheibh £49,000, gus cuideachadh le bhith a’ foillseachadh leabhraichean Gàidhlig
    • Chaidh £20,000 a chomharrachadh airson Ainmean-Àite na h-Alba, gus an cùm iad orra leis an obair aca mar a’ bhuidhinn-chomhairleachaidh nàiseanta airson ainmean-àite Gàidhlig ann an Alba
    • Gheibh Faclair na Gàidhlig £17,500 gus luchd-leughaidh ùr a ruighinn ann an com-pàirt le buidhnean Gàidhlig eile
    • Chaidh £17,500 a chomharrachadh airson Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle gus an urrainn dhaibh clasaichean, taisbeanaidhean agus buidhnean tràth-bhliadhnaichean
    • Thèid £10,000 a thoirt do Theatre gu Leòr airson dealbhan-cluiche a lìbhrigeadh air feadh Alba

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Lilo & Stitch: can Disney’s latest live-action animation remake reignite interest in the genre after Snow White box-office disaster?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laura O’Flanagan, PhD Candidate, School of English, Dublin City University

    Lilo & Stitch (2025) is another release in a long line of “reimaginings” of Disney animated features. Described as “live-action” they rework animations with humans and real-life settings (and the occasional animated character). These, for the most part, have been lucrative and successful for the studio. However, Disney’s mining of their own back catalogue has also yielded controversy and backlash.

    Following the troubled release of Snow White earlier this year – a film that failed to recoup its $270m (£201m) budget – it was announced that the production of a live action version of Tangled had been put on hold. Could Lilo and Stitch reignite confidence in the commercial viability of Disney’s recent live-action trend?

    The animated Lilo & Stitch (2002) was a hit when it was released, earning US$273m (£204m) at the box office on its $80m budget. Stitch has become a symbol of the Disney corporation in the decades since the film was released, rivalling Mickey Mouse himself as the Disney mascot most merchandised around the world.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.


    The film seems like an obvious candidate for a live-action rendition. The trailers show Stitch unchanged. He is roguish, naughty, lovable, hilarious and full of personality. This begs the question: what is the point, then? The cynical response to this is lucrative merchandise. But cynicism has no place in Disney films, so let’s dive in.

    The live-action Lilo & Stitch recreates a lot of the charm of the original animated film from 2002. Stitch (the original creator and voice, Chris Sanders) is a chaotic monster, who, when exiled from his home planet, escapes to Earth where he joins Lilo’s family in Hawaii.

    Recently orphaned, six-year old Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and her older sister and guardian, Nani (Sydney Adugong) struggle to maintain family life, and face the prospect of being separated by a social worker (Tia Carrere). Stitch’s arrival creates new upheaval as Nani attempts to keep the family together.

    The film’s strengths lie in the ways in which it echoes the original film. Hawaii’s beaches and surf are stunning onscreen, and an animated Stitch blends flawlessly with his real-life surroundings as he creates a whirlwind of mayhem everywhere he goes.

    Newcomer Maia Kealoha shines as Lilo, and there is magic onscreen when she shares scenes with Stitch. Their adventures together possess an undeniable charm, representing the film’s most compelling and memorable moments. Children will be delighted by Stitch’s hilarious naughtiness, and his journey to understanding and acceptance is heartwarming and well-paced.

    The threat of familial separation is portrayed as nuanced, complicated and less apocalyptic than in the original animated film. The social worker played by Tia Carrere (who voiced Nani in the animation) is a warm and empathetic presence, and her interactions with Nani have gravity and credibility.

    Although this is a welcome change, these scenes lack the energy of the Lilo and Stitch hijinks. They do add a degree of depth, but ultimately slow the story down, making the emotional moments feel unearned and somewhat lacking.

    The other central adults in the film, two alien hunters posing as humans played by Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnusson, feel out of place. The filmmakers’ decision to transform them from animated form into human form just doesn’t work in the world of the film. Their oafish and exaggerated physical performances are too jarring in a real-world setting, and would have been better remaining as vocal performances accompanying animation onscreen.

    Their home planet, Planet Turo is spectacularly animated. Hannah Waddingham gives a wonderful vocal performance as the grand councilwoman and new a comedic character resembling a pink axolotl (an amphibious salamander), makes this film feel very of the moment, given the recent media interest in this strange little creature.

    The film ultimately falls down in the final act as the strands of story come together in an overly complicated way. Changes to the ending create a sluggish finale which lacks the emotional payoff of the original.

    Overall, though, the new Lilo and Stitch is a joyful summer adventure that offers plenty of fun for children. Every scene where Stitch is onscreen is delightful. A modern cinematic icon, he is largely unchanged from the original 2002 film. The film updates the original through masterful depiction of Stitch’s interactions with humans onscreen.

    Stitch’s successes as a character in the original film are replicated here – his narrative arc, his design, his voice and his behaviour. The essence of what made Stitch an icon remains.

    Where the film is lacking is in over-complication of plot. There’s nothing wrong with refreshing the plot, as long as the heart, pacing and charm of the original remain intact. Perhaps Disney should turn their focus to what audiences loved about the original films, and what made the stories and characters so memorable.

    So, could the live-action Lilo and Stitch reignite confidence in this burgeoning genre? If Disney recognises that returning to source material with a modern touch means upholding the central elements key to these films’ enduring legacy, then maybe it can. Just don’t mention Snow White. And the merchandising opportunities can’t hurt them either.

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

    – ref. Lilo & Stitch: can Disney’s latest live-action animation remake reignite interest in the genre after Snow White box-office disaster? – https://theconversation.com/lilo-and-stitch-can-disneys-latest-live-action-animation-remake-reignite-interest-in-the-genre-after-snow-white-box-office-disaster-257281

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Lilo & Stitch: can Disney’s latest live-action animation remake reignite interest in the genre after Snow White box-office disaster?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laura O’Flanagan, PhD Candidate, School of English, Dublin City University

    Lilo & Stitch (2025) is another release in a long line of “reimaginings” of Disney animated features. Described as “live-action” they rework animations with humans and real-life settings (and the occasional animated character). These, for the most part, have been lucrative and successful for the studio. However, Disney’s mining of their own back catalogue has also yielded controversy and backlash.

    Following the troubled release of Snow White earlier this year – a film that failed to recoup its $270m (£201m) budget – it was announced that the production of a live action version of Tangled had been put on hold. Could Lilo and Stitch reignite confidence in the commercial viability of Disney’s recent live-action trend?

    The animated Lilo & Stitch (2002) was a hit when it was released, earning US$273m (£204m) at the box office on its $80m budget. Stitch has become a symbol of the Disney corporation in the decades since the film was released, rivalling Mickey Mouse himself as the Disney mascot most merchandised around the world.


    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.


    The film seems like an obvious candidate for a live-action rendition. The trailers show Stitch unchanged. He is roguish, naughty, lovable, hilarious and full of personality. This begs the question: what is the point, then? The cynical response to this is lucrative merchandise. But cynicism has no place in Disney films, so let’s dive in.

    The live-action Lilo & Stitch recreates a lot of the charm of the original animated film from 2002. Stitch (the original creator and voice, Chris Sanders) is a chaotic monster, who, when exiled from his home planet, escapes to Earth where he joins Lilo’s family in Hawaii.

    Recently orphaned, six-year old Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and her older sister and guardian, Nani (Sydney Adugong) struggle to maintain family life, and face the prospect of being separated by a social worker (Tia Carrere). Stitch’s arrival creates new upheaval as Nani attempts to keep the family together.

    The film’s strengths lie in the ways in which it echoes the original film. Hawaii’s beaches and surf are stunning onscreen, and an animated Stitch blends flawlessly with his real-life surroundings as he creates a whirlwind of mayhem everywhere he goes.

    Newcomer Maia Kealoha shines as Lilo, and there is magic onscreen when she shares scenes with Stitch. Their adventures together possess an undeniable charm, representing the film’s most compelling and memorable moments. Children will be delighted by Stitch’s hilarious naughtiness, and his journey to understanding and acceptance is heartwarming and well-paced.

    The threat of familial separation is portrayed as nuanced, complicated and less apocalyptic than in the original animated film. The social worker played by Tia Carrere (who voiced Nani in the animation) is a warm and empathetic presence, and her interactions with Nani have gravity and credibility.

    Although this is a welcome change, these scenes lack the energy of the Lilo and Stitch hijinks. They do add a degree of depth, but ultimately slow the story down, making the emotional moments feel unearned and somewhat lacking.

    The other central adults in the film, two alien hunters posing as humans played by Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnusson, feel out of place. The filmmakers’ decision to transform them from animated form into human form just doesn’t work in the world of the film. Their oafish and exaggerated physical performances are too jarring in a real-world setting, and would have been better remaining as vocal performances accompanying animation onscreen.

    Their home planet, Planet Turo is spectacularly animated. Hannah Waddingham gives a wonderful vocal performance as the grand councilwoman and new a comedic character resembling a pink axolotl (an amphibious salamander), makes this film feel very of the moment, given the recent media interest in this strange little creature.

    The film ultimately falls down in the final act as the strands of story come together in an overly complicated way. Changes to the ending create a sluggish finale which lacks the emotional payoff of the original.

    Overall, though, the new Lilo and Stitch is a joyful summer adventure that offers plenty of fun for children. Every scene where Stitch is onscreen is delightful. A modern cinematic icon, he is largely unchanged from the original 2002 film. The film updates the original through masterful depiction of Stitch’s interactions with humans onscreen.

    Stitch’s successes as a character in the original film are replicated here – his narrative arc, his design, his voice and his behaviour. The essence of what made Stitch an icon remains.

    Where the film is lacking is in over-complication of plot. There’s nothing wrong with refreshing the plot, as long as the heart, pacing and charm of the original remain intact. Perhaps Disney should turn their focus to what audiences loved about the original films, and what made the stories and characters so memorable.

    So, could the live-action Lilo and Stitch reignite confidence in this burgeoning genre? If Disney recognises that returning to source material with a modern touch means upholding the central elements key to these films’ enduring legacy, then maybe it can. Just don’t mention Snow White. And the merchandising opportunities can’t hurt them either.

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

    – ref. Lilo & Stitch: can Disney’s latest live-action animation remake reignite interest in the genre after Snow White box-office disaster? – https://theconversation.com/lilo-and-stitch-can-disneys-latest-live-action-animation-remake-reignite-interest-in-the-genre-after-snow-white-box-office-disaster-257281

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Best Betting Apps in Texas – BetWhale Picked As the Top TX Sportsbook Mobile App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In Texas, sports aren’t just entertainment—they’re a way of life. Texans wear their team loyalties like badges of honor, proudly supporting everything from Friday night high school football under stadium lights to major league events packed with screaming fans. 

    JOIN THE BEST BETTING APP IN TEXAS: BETWHALE

    Although Texas has historically maintained strict regulations on gambling, passionate sports fans have turned to online betting apps to add even more excitement to the games they love. Betting apps in Texas have opened a thrilling new dimension for sports enthusiasts eager to test their predictions and expertise while potentially earning some extra cash.

    What Makes BetWhale the Best Betting App in Texas

    When evaluating betting apps in Texas, BetWhale clearly stands out. Several features contribute to its unmatched popularity among Texans:

    Generous Bonuses

    BetWhale offers a highly competitive welcome bonus, rewarding new users with a 125% bonus up to $1,250 on their first deposit. Regular promotions and loyalty programs further enhance the user experience, providing consistent value to bettors.

    Comprehensive Sports Coverage

    The app provides extensive coverage of major sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and collegiate sports. Additionally, BetWhale includes niche markets like MMA, esports, international soccer leagues, and even entertainment and political betting, catering to a diverse betting audience.

    Seamless User Experience

    BetWhale’s intuitive platform ensures easy navigation across all devices. Quick-loading pages, clearly displayed odds, and streamlined bet placements create a hassle-free experience for both new and experienced bettors.

    Live Betting and Streaming

    One of BetWhale’s standout features is its live betting platform. Real-time odds adjustments, comprehensive live betting markets, and streaming of selected sports events significantly heighten the excitement and engagement of betting in real-time.

    Security and Reliability

    The app employs advanced encryption technology and secure payment gateways, ensuring user data and transactions are safe. Quick, reliable transactions paired with responsive customer support further solidify its appeal.

    TAKE THE 125% BONUS AT BETWHALE

    Why Texans Love to Bet on Sports

    Texans don’t just casually follow sports; they live and breathe them. Their deep cultural and community ties to teams—from high school through professional leagues—make sports betting a natural extension of their sports fandom. Betting apps in Texas capitalize on this passion by offering a wide variety of betting options tailored to local interests, ensuring Texans can engage fully with the excitement of each sporting event.

    This passion translates into significant betting engagement throughout the year, peaking around major events, championships, and rivalry games. The sheer variety of sports and teams ensures that there is always action available on Texas betting apps, providing continuous excitement and opportunities to win.

    How to Join Texas Betting Apps

    Joining betting apps in Texas, such as BetWhale, is simple and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth registration and betting process:

    1. Choose a Reputable Betting App

    Your first step should always involve selecting a secure and trusted betting app that accepts Texas residents. BetWhale is highly recommended due to its robust security, diverse betting markets, user-friendly interface, and reliable customer service.

    2. Complete the Registration Form

    Once you’ve chosen the right app, click the “Join” or “Register” button prominently featured on the homepage. A registration form will appear, requiring you to fill in essential personal details accurately. It’s essential to double-check your information for accuracy to avoid potential verification issues later.

    3. Account Verification Process

    After registering your account, betting apps like BetWhale will require verification to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to protect your account from unauthorized access. 

    Typically, this involves providing a clear image or scan of your government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID and supplying a recent utility bill, bank statement, or official document showing your current residential address clearly and accurately.

    4. Deposit Funds into Your Betting Account

    Once your account is verified, the next step is depositing funds to place bets. Betting apps in Texas, including BetWhale, typically offer various convenient and secure payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and prepaid cards. 

    Select your preferred payment method, enter the amount you wish to deposit, and follow the instructions provided. Deposits are usually processed instantly, allowing you to start betting immediately.

    5. Placing Bets on Your Favorite Sports

    With funds securely in your account, you’re now ready to start placing bets. Navigate through the intuitive user interface provided by BetWhale or your chosen app to explore various sports and markets available.

    Most Popular Sports Texans Bet On

    Texans have a deeply ingrained passion for sports, and this passion translates directly into enthusiastic betting activity. Betting apps in Texas see robust action, especially around sports that resonate deeply with local pride. Here’s an expanded breakdown of the most popular sports Texans love betting on:

    Football: King of Texas Sports

    In Texas, football isn’t just a sport—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether it’s the thrilling atmosphere of Friday Night Lights at local high school stadiums or the grandeur of Sunday afternoons with NFL action, Texans are deeply invested in football. The betting activity surrounding football peaks dramatically during the season.

    NFL Football

    Dallas Cowboys: Known affectionately as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys boast one of the largest fanbases in the United States. Texans bet extensively on Cowboys games, especially rivalry matchups against NFC East opponents such as the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders.

    Houston Texans: Despite their comparatively younger history, the Texans have quickly developed a dedicated following, with bettors consistently wagering on their games, particularly intra-division clashes in the AFC South against rivals like the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans.

    College Football

    Texas Longhorns (University of Texas at Austin): With an iconic burnt orange and white color scheme and the famous “Hook ’em Horns” chant, the Longhorns command statewide loyalty. High-profile games against rivals such as Oklahoma in the Red River Showdown or matchups against Texas Tech and Baylor see intense betting activity.

    Texas A&M Aggies: Aggie pride runs deep in College Station. Betting on Aggies games, especially against SEC powerhouses like Alabama and LSU, captures significant attention throughout the season.

    Football consistently remains the top choice among betting apps in Texas, with considerable excitement and betting volume accompanying major events such as the NFL playoffs, College Football Playoff, and bowl games.

    Basketball: Texas’ Second Love

    Basketball, both professional and collegiate, also attracts extensive betting attention across Texas. Enthusiasm peaks during playoff seasons and March Madness, drawing large numbers of sports bettors to the apps.

    NBA Basketball

    Houston Rockets: With a history of championship success in the ’90s, Rockets games remain popular betting events, especially during playoff contention years.

    Dallas Mavericks: Led historically by stars such as Dirk Nowitzki and now Luka Dončić, the Mavericks have a robust following that fuels betting activity throughout the season, spiking significantly during playoff runs.

    San Antonio Spurs: Known for their consistent excellence and championship pedigree under legendary coach Gregg Popovich, the Spurs have maintained a loyal betting fanbase that actively engages during critical playoff matchups.

    College Basketball

    Texans don’t limit their basketball enthusiasm to the professional ranks. March Madness, the NCAA basketball tournament, sees heightened interest, especially when local teams participate:

    Baylor Bears: Recent successes, including their 2021 national championship win, have elevated Baylor’s profile and significantly increased betting engagement during tournament seasons.

    Texas Tech Red Raiders: A recent powerhouse in college basketball, their strong showings in tournaments have translated directly into heightened betting interest across Texas betting apps.

    Baseball: Texas’ Summer Tradition

    Baseball remains a cherished tradition throughout Texas, particularly during the warm months, and Texans enthusiastically wager on their beloved MLB teams.

    Houston Astros: The Astros’ recent World Series victories and consistent playoff appearances have propelled them into a national spotlight. Their postseason games, especially matchups against rivals such as the New York Yankees, consistently draw high betting volumes.

    Texas Rangers: Playing out of Arlington, the Rangers maintain a passionate fan base. During strong competitive seasons or playoffs, Rangers games generate considerable betting interest statewide.

    Major League Baseball betting peaks dramatically in Texas during postseason play, as the excitement surrounding the playoffs and World Series leads to increased betting activity.

    Factors to Consider When Choosing Texas Betting Apps

    Selecting the right betting app in Texas involves more than just picking the first platform that appears attractive. It’s essential to examine specific aspects that can significantly impact your betting experience. Here’s a detailed exploration of key factors you should consider:

    Licensing and Security

    The cornerstone of a reliable betting app is its adherence to strict licensing and robust security protocols. Choosing a betting app that operates under credible licensing authorities ensures you’re dealing with a trustworthy provider that complies with international gambling standards.

    Betting Markets and Odds

    Another critical factor when choosing betting apps in Texas is the breadth and depth of available betting markets, along with the competitiveness of odds provided.

    Ideal apps provide comprehensive coverage across a wide variety of sports including major leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB), collegiate sports, international soccer, horse racing, and niche markets like esports and MMA. Extensive market coverage allows you to explore different betting opportunities and diversify your wagering.

    Betting odds directly impact your potential winnings. Choosing apps that consistently offer attractive, competitive odds can significantly increase your potential returns. It’s beneficial to compare odds across various platforms to determine which app frequently provides the best value, particularly in popular markets like football or basketball.

    User-Friendly Interface

    A well-designed, user-friendly interface can markedly improve your betting experience, making it easier and more enjoyable to engage with sports betting regularly.

    Apps that feature intuitive navigation allow users to quickly locate their favorite sports, markets, and betting options without confusion. Clear, organized menus and fast-loading pages are key aspects of superior app design.

    Payment Options

    The availability and reliability of multiple payment methods significantly influence the convenience and practicality of any betting app in Texas. A good betting app should provide a wide range of secure payment methods. 

    Commonly used options include:

    • Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are standard for quick and straightforward deposits.
    • E-Wallets: Payment systems like PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and ecoPayz offer speedy, secure, and discreet transactions.
    • Prepaid Cards: Options such as Paysafecard allow deposits without the necessity of linking directly to a personal bank account or credit card.
    • Bank Transfers: Direct bank transfers offer a secure option for larger transactions, albeit with slightly longer processing times compared to other methods.

    Customer Service

    High-quality customer support can dramatically influence your betting experience, especially when resolving technical issues or answering account-related questions promptly.

    Efficient, responsive customer service is essential for addressing queries or issues swiftly. Top-tier betting apps in Texas usually offer customer support that is quick to respond, typically within minutes via live chat and within a few hours via email.

    A reputable betting app should provide multiple customer support channels, including live chat, email, phone support, and FAQ pages.

    Place Bets at the Top Texas Betting Apps

    When choosing betting apps in Texas, considering these factors in detail ensures you select a reliable, user-friendly, and enjoyable betting platform. Evaluating licensing and security, betting markets and odds, app usability, payment methods, and customer support quality will collectively guide you toward an app that enhances your sports betting experience.

    Making the right choice not only offers security and convenience but also greatly enhances the enjoyment and potential profitability of sports betting activities in Texas.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can be contacted at 1-800-522-4700 or visited online at www.ncpgambling.org.

    21+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    BetWhale
    https://betwhale.ag
    support@betwhale.ag
    1150 Gemini St, Houston, TX 77058

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Best Horse Racing Betting Sites in Australia – Donbet Picked as the Top AU Racebook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Horse racing is more than just a pastime in Australia—it’s practically a national obsession. From the Melbourne Cup to the raw excitement of local meets, Australians love the thrill of the track. 

    Betting on horse racing has become an integral part of this beloved sport, with numerous horse racing betting sites Australia bettors can join vying for attention from punters. But with so many options, how do you choose the best?

    JOIN THE BEST HORSE RACEBOOK IN AU: DONBET

    Why Donbet Is the Best Horse Racing Betting Site in Australia

    When you’re placing bets online, reliability and ease of use are paramount. Donbet not only meets these criteria but exceeds them. Donbet’s platform is crafted specifically with Aussie punters in mind, combining user-friendly design, excellent odds, comprehensive race coverage, and robust security features.

    One of Donbet’s standout features is its exceptional user interface. Easy navigation ensures bettors can quickly find odds and place wagers without unnecessary complications. Additionally, Donbet consistently provides competitive odds on all major and minor races, ensuring maximum value for every wager.

    The platform also offers extensive coverage of Australian and international races. Whether you’re betting on prestigious races like the Melbourne Cup or smaller local meets, Donbet ensures you never miss a beat.

    What to Consider When Choosing Horse Racing Sportbooks in Australia

    User Experience and Interface

    A seamless betting experience is crucial. Choose platforms like Donbet, known for their intuitive navigation, quick loading times, and responsive customer support.

    Betting Markets and Odds

    The best horse racing betting sites Australia has ever seen should offer a wide variety of betting markets, from straightforward win/place/show bets to more exotic wagers. Competitive odds significantly enhance potential returns.

    Security and Licensing

    Always prioritize betting sites that are licensed and regulated by Australian gaming authorities. Secure platforms utilize advanced encryption to protect your personal and financial details.

    Promotions and Bonuses

    Look for sites offering generous sign-up bonuses, free bets, cashback offers, and loyalty programs. Donbet excels by regularly updating promotions tailored to horse racing enthusiasts.

    Payment Methods and Speed of Withdrawals

    Efficient payment processing is vital. Ensure your chosen betting site supports popular Aussie-friendly payment methods like credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.

    Mobile Compatibility

    With betting increasingly moving online, top sites must offer mobile-optimized platforms or dedicated betting apps to allow seamless betting on-the-go.

    How to Join Horse Racing Sportsbooks in Australia

    Joining horse racing betting sites like Donbet in Australia is straightforward and quick. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps to help you easily get started:

    Step 1: Visit the Website

    Navigate to Donbet’s official site using your desktop or mobile browser. You’ll easily spot the “Join” or “Register” button, usually prominently displayed at the top right corner of the homepage.

    Step 2: Complete the Registration Form

    Click the button and enter your personal details accurately. These typically include your full name, date of birth, residential address, email, and contact phone number. It’s crucial to provide accurate information to ensure smooth verification and secure account management.

    Step 3: Verify Your Identity

    Australian betting regulations mandate identity verification for security purposes. You’ll be prompted to upload documents like your passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. Occasionally, additional proof of address might be required, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.

    Step 4: Make Your First Deposit

    Once your account is verified, deposit funds using your preferred method. Donbet supports various popular payment options, including credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. Deposits are typically processed swiftly, allowing immediate betting access.

    Step 5: Place Your Bets

    With your account funded, explore Donbet’s extensive race listings. You can choose from numerous betting markets, including win/place/show, quinellas, trifectas, and more exotic options. Select your races, choose your bets, confirm your wagers, and you’re all set!

    TAKE THE 600 AUD BONUS

    Most Popular Racetracks You Can Bet On In Australia

    Australia boasts some of the most prestigious and exhilarating racetracks worldwide, each with its distinctive charm and betting opportunities:

    • Flemington Racecourse, Victoria: Located in Melbourne, Flemington is internationally renowned, especially for hosting the Melbourne Cup—Australia’s most famous horse race. The Melbourne Cup Carnival attracts thousands of spectators and bettors every November, making it a highlight of the global racing calendar.
    • Randwick Racecourse, New South Wales: Situated in Sydney, Randwick is the home of The Championships, a celebrated event featuring races such as the Queen Elizabeth Stakes and the Doncaster Mile. Its modern facilities and historic charm make it a favourite amongst punters.
    • Caulfield Racecourse, Victoria: Known for the prestigious Caulfield Cup, this Melbourne-based venue provides a critical testing ground for horses aiming for Melbourne Cup glory. Its engaging track layout ensures dynamic racing, offering bettors thrilling and strategic betting opportunities.
    • Moonee Valley Racecourse, Victoria: Located in Melbourne, Moonee Valley is famed for hosting the Cox Plate, known as Australia’s weight-for-age championship. Its compact and tight-turn course creates intense, exciting races ideal for experienced punters looking for challenging odds.
    • Eagle Farm Racecourse, Queensland: Brisbane’s leading racetrack, Eagle Farm, regularly hosts high-profile events like the Stradbroke Handicap and Queensland Derby. With a long straight track, it rewards strategic betting and offers great opportunities for punters looking to capitalize on form and distance specialists.
    • Ascot Racecourse, Western Australia: Ascot, located in Perth, combines lively atmosphere and competitive racing. It hosts major events like the Perth Cup and the Railway Stakes, attracting crowds and bettors keen on the vibrant social scene and competitive odds.

    What Makes Donbet Ideal for Aussie Bettors

    Donbet’s superiority comes down to several unique features tailored explicitly for Australian punters:

    • Local Expertise: Donbet is staffed with industry experts who understand the nuances of Australian horse racing.
    • Comprehensive Coverage: Whether it’s major metropolitan races or regional meets, Donbet offers extensive markets to suit every preference.
    • Enhanced Odds and Promotions: Regularly updated special offers and boosted odds provide more value to bettors, making Donbet particularly attractive for seasoned and new punters alike.
    • Reliable Customer Support: Accessible 24/7 customer service via live chat, email, and phone ensures you always have assistance when needed.
    • Robust Security Protocols: Licensed by reputable gaming authorities and employing cutting-edge encryption technologies, Donbet ensures your betting experience is secure.

    5 Essential Tips for Betting on Horse Racing

    1. Research Thoroughly

    Extensive research is crucial to successful betting. Study each horse’s recent form, historical performance on specific tracks, jockey and trainer stats, and the horse’s preferred distance. Look at past race videos and consider expert opinions to build a detailed understanding of potential outcomes.

    2. Understand and Identify Betting Value

    Understanding betting odds is essential. Recognize how bookmakers set odds and spot value bets—horses that have higher odds than their realistic winning probability. Developing a knack for identifying these bets can significantly enhance your long-term profitability.

    3. Practice Bankroll Management

    Responsible bankroll management protects your finances and improves your betting strategy. Set clear betting limits and stick to them. Allocate specific amounts per bet and avoid impulsive decisions like chasing losses. Disciplined betting will lead to more consistent and enjoyable betting experiences.

    4. Diversify Your Betting Strategy

    Don’t rely only on straightforward win bets. Explore various betting markets such as place bets, each-way bets, quinellas, trifectas, and exactas. Diversification helps balance risk and reward, potentially increasing overall returns and keeping betting engaging.

    5. Monitor Track and Weather Conditions

    Conditions greatly influence race outcomes. Horses can perform differently depending on weather (dry, wet, muddy tracks). Check accurate weather forecasts and track reports on race day. Understanding how these factors affect each horse can provide crucial betting insights and improve your decision-making.

    Final Thoughts on Horse Racing Betting Sites in Australia

    Horse racing is woven into Australia’s cultural fabric, and betting enhances the excitement of each event. Choosing the right betting site makes all the difference in your horse racing betting sites Australia experience. Donbet rises above the competition, perfectly aligning with what Australian bettors value most—reliability, extensive market coverage, superior odds, security, and outstanding customer support.

    Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just starting, Donbet and horse racing betting sites in Australia offer an exhilarating, user-friendly, and safe betting experience. Enjoy the thrills and excitement of Australian horse racing with confidence and ease at Donbet—Australia’s premier destination for horse racing betting.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. In Australia, you can dial 1800 858 858.

    18+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    DonBet
    https://donbet.com
    support@donbet.com
    1150 Gemini St, Houston, TX 77058

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: Xbox Game Pass members can now play Activision’s Retro Classics

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Xbox Game Pass members can now play Activision’s Retro Classics

    A variety of new updates are available this month across our gaming platforms. Coming today, Retro Classics games are available to play for Xbox Game Pass members. Players who stream on the Xbox app on PC now have an additional streaming option with GeForce Now. Game Bar introduces quick settings, visual updates for Widgets in Compact Mode, and coming soon, Microsoft Edge Game Assist, an in-game browser that brings an immersive game-centric experience to Edge. And Xbox gift cards can now be redeemed for any amount via Xbox Rewards. Read more about these and other exciting updates below.

    Announcing Retro Classics available for Game Pass Members

    We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Retro Classics, a collaboration between Xbox and Antstream Arcade, available to play for Game Pass members globally. Starting today, Game Pass members can dive into a collection of 50+ classic Activision games from the ’80s and ’90s, including beloved titles like Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall! This initiative is a step in our commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility, allowing players to experience many timeless games on modern devices.

    With Retro Classics, Game Pass members can expect a seamless gaming experience across console, PC, and on supported devices with cloud gaming. Whether playing on Xbox console, the Xbox app on PC, or streaming on supported LG and Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets, Retro Classics offers a versatile and accessible way to enjoy these nostalgic titles.  Game Pass members can access Retro Classics through their Game Pass membership by searching and installing the feature via their console or on the Xbox app on PC. Additionally, players can take on friends, rivals, or the entire world with unique challenges. For the achievement hunters, there are some great new ones to collect, and for newer players, the ability to save and reload your progress, a first for many classic titles.


    Retro Classics

    Xbox Game Studios

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Discover timeless classics and hidden gems with Game Pass. Retro Classics includes over 50 restored and ready-to-play games available for Xbox Game Pass members. Power up your play with community challenges, competitive leaderboards, all-new challenge modes, high-score rankings and more. Play over 50 classic games from Activision like Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom! Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall! . Take on friends, rivals or the entire world with unique challenges – or dive in solo – and collect achievements. Save your progress and continue later for the first time for many games. Available for Game Pass members to play on console, PC, and on supported devices with cloud gaming.


    This launch is just the beginning. Game Pass members can look forward to discovering additional games added from Activision and Blizzard, expanding the Retro Classics collection to more than 100+ titles over time.

    For more information on Retro Classics, see here.

    PC Gaming

    Game Bar Updates – Quick settings and widgets

    To further enhance the gameplay experience with Game Bar, we’ve revamped the Settings widget with quick settings and continued visual updates to the remainder of the inbox widgets. The new quick settings will be accessible in both Compact Mode and Desktop Mode across all Windows devices.

    Upon opening the Settings widget, players can now swiftly access a list of quick settings that allow them to adjust audio levels, screen brightness, show a virtual keyboard, turn on Compact Mode, manage connected devices and more, all while minimizing interruptions to gameplay.

    In addition to this, visual updates have been applied to the Widget List, Gallery widget, and Home widget for a more unified look and feel across the experience.

    Game Bar Updates – Microsoft Edge Game Assist

    Microsoft Edge Game Assist is coming soon. As the first in-game browser built specifically for players, Game Assist brings players a full browser along with tips, walkthroughs, playlists, and sites like Discord, Spotify, and Twitch right into their game. Players can use the Windows + G shortcut to open this experience in Game Bar at any time during a gameplay session. As Game Assist is seamlessly connected to the Edge browser, players will have instant access to their favorites, passwords, history, and more, ensuring everything they need is always within reach and keeping their data synched between sessions. 

    GeForce Now update

    Xbox players now have an additional option in the Xbox app on PC for playing via cloud gaming, providing even greater flexibility in how they play. GeForce Now has been added as an available option for PC gaming on participating titles, allowing players to choose their preferred streaming platform for gameplay. If a game is available on GeForce Now, players will see a pop-up when clicking the Play button on the product page, at which time they can select their preferred cloud gaming option.

    Xbox Rewards

    Rewards with Xbox – Xbox gift cards in custom amounts now available

    Players can now redeem their Rewards points for Xbox gift cards in any amount on the Rewards hub.

     To customize an Xbox gift card:

    1. On the Rewards hub, go to the catalog and choose “Xbox Gift Card”
    2. Select an amount from the drop-down list OR choose “Custom”
    3. If selecting “Custom,” enter any amount between $5-$100
    4. Select “Redeem Reward” to complete the redemption
    5. Once complete, the gift card will be automatically added to your account balance

    This balance can be used towards purchases of Games, Game Add-ons, Movies and TV Shows or on the latest deals at Xbox.com/Deals. Learn more about redeeming Rewards here.

    Stream your own game – Over 100+ games

    We’re continuing to add more games to the Stream your own game collection for Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta). Game Pass Ultimate members can stream from a library of over 100+ cloud playable games on supported devices.

    Recently added:

    • Arma Reforger
    • Deliver At All Cost
    • Monster Energy Supercross – The Official Videogame 6
    • Project Wingman
    • RIDE 5
    • ROADCRAFT

    Coming soon:

    • Anno 1800 Console Edition – Standard
    • Disney Illusion Island
    • Hello Neighbor 2
    • Just Dance
    • Life is Strange: Before the Storm Episode 1
    • Life is Strange: True Colors
    • MONOPOLY
    • Skull and Bones
    • Sunderfolk
    • Watch Dogs Legion

    Check out the full list of cloud-playable games available to stream on supported devices here. For more information, learn more here.

    Xbox Play Anywhere – Buy once, play anywhere

    With over 1,000 games now supporting Xbox Play Anywhere, players can seamlessly switch between PC, Xbox console, and supported handhelds at no additional cost, bringing even more value to our Xbox players. Progress, including saves, game add-ons, and achievements, is carried over wherever the game is played. Simply log in with an Xbox account on any device to continue playing from where you left off.

    70+ games have been released with this feature so far in 2025! In April, these games came into the Xbox Play Anywhere collection:

    • Amaze!
    • Amerzone – The Explorer’s Legacy
    • Annie:Last Hope
    • Biz Builder Delux
    • Blue Prince
    • Cafe Master Story
    • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
    • Crime Scene Cleaner
    • FragPunk
    • Hegzis
    • HexaScape: Cyber Defense
    • Hot Rod Mayhem
    • Light-It Up
    • Little Droid
    • Lunar Remastered Collection
    • Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
    • Meow Moments: Celebrating Geeks & Athletes
    • Moving Houses
    • My Little Universe
    • Ocean Keeper
    • Ruku’s Heart Balloon
    • Sky Revolver
    • South of Midnight
    • Spirit Valor
    • Tempopo
    • Terror Mansion
    • The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
    • The Epyx Collection: Handheld
    • The Safe Place
    • Towerborne (Game Preview)

    Check out the full list of available games that players can enjoy anywhere.

    In Case You Missed It

    Xbox Accessories – DOOM: The Dark Ages

    As announced in April, the new limited-edition accessories collection for DOOM: The Dark Ages is now available for purchase. This collection celebrates DOOM and the latest chapter in the franchise’s storied history. The full lineup includes an Xbox Wireless Controller, an Xbox Elite Series 2, and an Xbox Series X console wrap. Visit xbox.com to learn more about this limited-edition collection.

    Xbox Consoles –Dynamic Backgrounds

    DOOM: The Dark Ages and Metaphor: ReFantazio introduced new dynamic backgrounds for Xbox Series X|S consoles, allowing players to customize their consoles to match exciting new games.

    To learn how to customize your Xbox Series X|S console by choosing a dynamic background, visit the Xbox Support page.

    Help Shape the Future of Xbox

    Stay tuned to Xbox Wire for future updates and the latest and greatest Xbox news. For support related to Xbox updates, visit the official Xbox Support site.

    We love hearing from the community, whether you have a suggestion for a new feature that you’d like to see added, or you want to give feedback on existing features that could use some improvement. We’re always looking for ways to improve Xbox experiences for players around the world. If you’d like to help create the future of Xbox and get early access to new features, join the Xbox Insider Program today by downloading the Xbox Insider Hub for Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One or Windows PC.

    Happy gaming.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Roulette Florida: Wild Casino Chosen as The Top Roulette FL Site

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    The online roulette Florida players can access is becoming increasingly popular as more residents look for legal, secure ways to enjoy real-money casino games online. While Florida has yet to authorize state-regulated online casinos, many trusted platforms cater to US players, offering a wide range of roulette options with smooth gameplay and fair odds. Choosing the right site is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience, and Wild Casino stands out as the top choice for players in Florida.

    PLAY THE BEST ONLINE ROULETTE IN FLORIDA: WILD CASINO

    Why Wild Casino is The Best Online Roulette Florida Site

    Wild Casino stands out as the top platform for online roulette Florida players thanks to its strong reputation, reliable performance, and wide variety of roulette games. With a focus on player satisfaction, it delivers a high-quality experience that covers all the essentials: security, speed, game variety, and ease of use. Here’s what makes it the best option for players in Florida:

    • Extensive Roulette Selection
    • Licensed and Secure 
    • Live Dealer Options 
    • Fast and Reliable Payouts 
    • Optimized for Florida Players

    Wild Casino checks all the boxes for anyone serious about playing online roulette in Florida. It’s a trustworthy, feature-rich site that makes it easy to enjoy the game without compromise.

    GET 250 FREE SPINS + CASH BONUS ON SIGNUP AT WILD CASINO

    What Makes a Top Online Roulette Florida Casino?

    A high-quality online roulette Florida casino offers more than just a spinning wheel—it delivers a complete, reliable, and enjoyable gaming experience tailored to players in the United States. Here are the key features that set the best platforms apart:

    • Game Variety
      Top sites provide multiple roulette options, including American, European, and live dealer formats. This variety gives players the freedom to choose the style and odds that suit their preferences, whether they’re looking for fast-paced action or a more strategic edge.
    • Strong Licensing and Security
      A reputable casino operates under a recognized gaming license and uses advanced encryption technology to protect player data. This ensures that gameplay is fair and all transactions are secure.
    • Fast and Flexible Payment Options
      Players should be able to deposit and withdraw easily using common payment methods accepted across the US. The best platforms process payouts quickly and clearly outline all transaction terms without hidden fees.
    • Mobile Compatibility
      With many Florida players gaming on the go, a strong mobile experience is essential. Top casinos support smooth, responsive play on both iOS and Android devices without sacrificing quality or speed.
    • Promotions That Benefit Roulette Players
      Bonuses and promotions should come with fair terms and reasonable wagering requirements. Platforms that allow table game contributions and offer reload or loyalty rewards create more value for roulette fans.
    • Live Dealer Access
      Live roulette adds authenticity to the online experience. Top sites offer high-quality live streams with professional dealers, real-time betting, and seamless interaction for a true casino atmosphere.
    • User Experience and Navigation
      An easy-to-navigate interface helps players quickly find their favorite roulette games, check balances, and access support. The best sites eliminate clutter and prioritize player convenience.
    • Responsible Gaming Tools
      Trustworthy platforms support player wellbeing by offering deposit limits, self-exclusion tools, and access to support resources, promoting a balanced and safe gaming environment.

    A Florida-focused online roulette casino combines legal accessibility with quality features that support secure, fair, and exciting gameplay—delivering everything players need for a top-tier roulette experience.

    How to Play Online Roulette in Florida

    Playing online roulette in Florida is quick and easy through a reliable, US-friendly platform like Wild Casino. Whether you’re new to the game or returning for more action, here’s how to get started.

    Step 1: Sign Up at Wild Casino

    Visit Wild Casino and click the “Join Now” button to open the registration form. Fill in your name, email, phone number, and address, then create a secure password to complete your account setup.

    Step 2: Verify Your Account

    To ensure secure gameplay and smooth withdrawals, Wild Casino may request verification documents such as a photo ID and a recent utility bill.

    Step 3: Make Your First Deposit

    Go to the cashier section, choose a deposit method accepted in the US, enter the amount, and follow the instructions to fund your account. You’ll also have the option to claim a welcome bonus that may apply to roulette games.

    Step 4: Choose a Roulette Game

    Browse the table games or live dealer section and pick from American, European, or live roulette tables. Each variant offers a different layout, with European roulette featuring better odds due to a single zero.

    Step 5: Place Your Bets

    Select your chip value and place bets on numbers, colors, or combinations based on your strategy. You can play it safe with outside bets or aim for higher payouts with inside bets.

    Step 6: Spin the Wheel

    Click the spin button or wait for the dealer in live games to start the round. The ball will land in a numbered pocket, and your winnings will be automatically credited based on your bet.

    Step 7: Cash Out When Ready

    Head to the cashier, choose a withdrawal method, and follow the prompts to request your payout. Wild Casino processes withdrawals quickly, so you won’t wait long to enjoy your winnings.

    Getting started with online roulette in Florida is straightforward, and Wild Casino offers everything you need for a safe, smooth, and enjoyable experience.

    Wild Casino’s Bonuses and Promotions for Florida Roulette Players

    Wild Casino offers a range of promotions that can enhance the online roulette experience for Florida players. While roulette often contributes at a lower percentage toward bonus wagering requirements compared to slots, some of Wild Casino’s offers can still provide added value when used strategically. Here are the main bonuses available, along with how they can benefit roulette play:

    • Welcome Bonus Package – New players at Wild Casino can unlock a sizable multi-deposit welcome package upon signing up and making their first few deposits. While wagering contributions for roulette may be reduced (typically around 10%), this bonus can still extend your bankroll and give you more opportunities to play without extra spending.
    • Reload Bonuses – Regular reload promotions are available for existing players who make follow-up deposits. These bonuses are often offered weekly or monthly and can be used to keep your balance topped up, giving you more sessions at the roulette table without starting from scratch.
    • Weekend Bonuses – Wild Casino frequently offers weekend-specific bonuses that include deposit matches or free chips. These can be especially useful if you’re planning a longer roulette session and want some extra funds to start off strong.
    • Refer-a-Friend Bonus – If you refer friends to Wild Casino, you can receive a bonus based on their first deposit. This referral reward can be used on table games like roulette, adding a passive way to grow your bankroll.
    • Loyalty Rewards and Promotions – Although not always advertised as a formal VIP program, loyal players often receive exclusive offers via email, including tailored bonuses and special promos that may have more flexible wagering terms for roulette.
    • Game-Specific Promos – Occasionally, Wild Casino may run limited-time promotions for live dealer games or table games. These might include leaderboard races, cashback offers, or bonus chips tied to roulette play.

    Important Notes for Roulette Players

    • Always read the wagering requirements and check how much roulette contributes (typically lower than slots).
    • Make sure to review bonus terms to ensure table games are eligible.
    • Use bonuses wisely by combining them with smart bankroll management.

    Wild Casino’s promotions, while not always tailored exclusively to roulette, still offer meaningful benefits when used strategically—especially for Florida players looking to extend play without constantly depositing more.

    Roulette Game Variants at Wild Casino

    Wild Casino offers Florida players a diverse selection of roulette games, each with its own rules, layout, and odds. Whether you’re looking for fast-paced digital play or an immersive live dealer experience, the platform delivers high-quality options to suit every style. Here’s a closer look at the main roulette variants available at Wild Casino:

    American Roulette

    This is the classic version most players recognize, featuring a wheel with 38 pockets—numbers 1 through 36, plus a single zero (0) and a double zero (00). The addition of the double zero increases the house edge to 5.26%, making it slightly less favorable than other variants, but ideal for players who enjoy traditional US-style gameplay. Wild Casino’s American Roulette is fast, clean, and perfect for those who like familiar odds and structure.

    European Roulette

    European Roulette is similar in layout to the American version but includes only a single zero (0), reducing the total number of pockets to 37. This subtle change significantly lowers the house edge to 2.70%, giving players better long-term odds. It’s a great choice for strategic bettors who want to maximize their chances. The graphics are smooth, the interface is intuitive, and gameplay is quick and responsive.

    Live Dealer Roulette

    Live roulette brings the full casino atmosphere directly to your screen, with real dealers spinning physical wheels in real time. Players can interact with the dealer and place bets just as they would in a land-based casino. Wild Casino offers live versions of both American and European roulette, with multiple tables and betting limits to accommodate casual players and high rollers alike. High-definition video streaming and real-time chat add to the immersive experience.

    Auto Roulette

    This version removes the dealer and uses an automated wheel to speed up gameplay. It follows the European roulette format with a single zero, offering lower house edge and quicker spins. Auto Roulette is ideal for players who prefer a faster pace and uninterrupted betting sessions without waiting for manual spins or dealer commentary.

    Additional Variants and Tables

    While the core offerings include the main roulette formats, Wild Casino frequently updates its game selection and may feature special tables or limited-time variants. These can include multi-camera views, racetrack betting layouts, and games with enhanced features like repeat bet options and hot/cold number tracking.

    Wild Casino Tips for Florida Players to Win at Online Roulette

    While roulette is largely a game of chance, Florida players can still improve their experience and maximize potential winnings by playing smart and managing their approach. At Wild Casino, these strategies can help you play more efficiently and enjoy better outcomes over time.

    1. Choose European Roulette for Better Odds

    European Roulette has only one zero, which lowers the house edge to 2.70%, compared to 5.26% in American Roulette. For players focused on long-term play and improved chances, European tables are the smarter choice.

    2. Manage Your Bankroll Wisely

    Set a budget before you play and stick to it. Use fixed bet amounts per spin and avoid chasing losses. This disciplined approach helps extend your session and reduces the risk of overspending.

    3. Focus on Outside Bets for More Frequent Wins

    Outside bets—such as red/black, odd/even, and high/low—have nearly 50/50 odds and pay out at 1:1. While the payouts are smaller, they hit more often and are ideal for steady, low-risk play.

    4. Use a Simple Betting Strategy

    Systems like the Martingale or Fibonacci can help structure your gameplay, but they don’t guarantee wins. If you use one, apply it cautiously and know when to stop, especially during losing streaks.

    5. Take Advantage of Bonuses When Applicable

    Wild Casino offers promotions that can boost your bankroll. Be sure to read the terms—some bonuses allow roulette play with reasonable wagering requirements, which can extend your playing time without additional deposits.

    6. Avoid Betting on Single Numbers Exclusively

    Straight-up bets offer a high payout (35:1), but the odds of hitting a single number are low. Mix these with safer bets to balance your risk and improve session sustainability.

    7. Practice on Free Versions Before Wagering Real Money

    Before betting real cash, use Wild Casino’s free-play versions to get comfortable with the interface, rules, and betting layout. This helps reduce costly mistakes once real money is on the line.

    8. Set Win and Loss Limits

    Decide in advance how much you’re willing to lose and when you’ll walk away with a win. Knowing your limits protects your bankroll and promotes responsible play.

    9. Stick to One Variant per Session

    Jumping between multiple roulette formats can lead to confusion and inconsistent results. Choose one version per session—especially if you’re using a specific betting system or strategy.

    10. Play Live Roulette for a More Authentic Experience

    If you want to simulate real casino play, live dealer roulette at Wild Casino provides a slower pace and greater engagement. This environment can help you stay focused and make more deliberate bets.

    Using these tips won’t eliminate the element of luck, but they can give Florida players more control, better odds, and a more rewarding experience at the roulette tables.

    Final Thoughts: Play Wild Casino’s Online Roulette in Florida With Confidence

    For Florida players seeking a reliable and rewarding online roulette experience, Wild Casino delivers on every front. With multiple roulette variants, secure gameplay, and a platform designed for US users, it stands out as a trusted destination for real-money action. From quick registration and fast payouts to live dealer options and smart bonuses, everything is built to support smooth, engaging, and fair roulette sessions.

    Whether you’re spinning the wheel casually or applying a more focused strategy, Wild Casino offers the tools, features, and game quality you need to play confidently. As online roulette continues to grow in popularity across the United States, Florida players can count on Wild Casino to provide a professional, secure, and user-friendly environment every time they log in.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can be contacted at 1-800-522-4700 or visited online at www.ncpgambling.org.

    21+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    Project name: Wild Casino

    Company Website: https://wild-casino.live/

    Email: support@wild-casino.live

    Phone: (08) 8326 3976

    Contact person name: Smith

    Contact person email: smith@wild-casino.live

    Attachment

    • Wild Casino

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: TSplus Releases Remote Support Android V4: Smarter, Broader, and Now Compatible with Android TV

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LYON, France, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TSplus is proud to announce the release of version 4 of its Remote Support app for Android. This major update marks a new step in the continuous evolution of the product, bringing increased compatibility, refined performance, and broader usability. As part of TSplus ongoing commitment to accessible, powerful remote assistance tools, this version introduces full support for Android TVs — opening the door to exciting new use cases in both home and professional environments.

    Constant Improvements Make Remote Support for Android a Versatile Product

    Since the start of the year, TSplus has consistently delivered improvements to its Remote Support Android application. With each update, the app has grown in performance, compatibility, and usability. Now, with the release of Version 4, a major milestone has been reached: full support for Android TVs.

    This latest version expands device compatibility to include arm32 and x86 architectures, adding over 2,300 new models and bringing the total supported Android devices to 22,720 (source: Google Play Store). These two architectures are commonly found in Android TV-based devices thanks to their affordability and broad adoption in commercial hardware.

    In France, for instance, Free’s Freebox Player Pop — a popular Triple Play AndroidTV box — now runs the Remote Support app seamlessly. This enhancement marks a key step forward in TSplus’ mission to make remote assistance accessible everywhere, even in living rooms and on public-facing digital signage.

    Remote Support for Android: A Game-Changer for IT Maintenance and Remote Assistance

    With the new Android TV compatibility, Remote Support for Android V4 unlocks powerful new use cases:

    • Home or Office: Use Viewer mode to support others or cast a PowerPoint presentation from PC to TV when HDMI isn’t available.
    • Retail & Fast Food: Troubleshoot self-service ordering kiosks at restaurants like McDonald’s.
    • Public Transport: Remotely access ticket machines or schedule display boards in train, tram, and bus stations.
    • Airports: Provide support to digital signage and interactive displays.
    • Cinema & Events: Maintain or configure ticket ordering stations.
    • And more!

    The Sharer mode allows users to securely share their screen and receive help from a remote technician, even without a touchscreen. Meanwhile, Viewer mode lets support agents control Android sessions directly — all while ensuring a smooth and intuitive user experience on devices not traditionally designed for remote control.

    With improved navigation for AndroidTV, optimized network usage, and support for D-PAD and global action commands, this update brings meaningful upgrades for technicians and users alike.

    TSplus invites users to download the latest version of Remote Support Android directly from the Google Play Store.

    For IT professionals and helpdesk teams, this update opens new doors to efficient, secure remote support — wherever Android is running!

    Press Contact: Caleb Zaharris Marketing Director caleb.zaharris@tsplus.net

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/51b4bf7f-a371-4ce3-939c-bd59d38aa9b1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6f55f588-02bc-41ed-89f2-510ac0e7dc41

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Launches New Brand Identity and “Crypto for Everyone” Movement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Backed by 300% user growth, Bitget Wallet unveils a new design and $1M campaign to bring crypto into everyday use worldwide

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has unveiled a new brand identity to reflect its evolution into a full-service crypto wallet designed for everyday use. With over 80 million users, Bitget Wallet has strategically expanded its offerings beyond trading and earning to onchain discovery and global payments. Alongside a new logo symbolizing simplicity and direction, the app has introduced a more streamlined, user-friendly interface to make crypto more intuitive for all. Bitget Wallet stands by the inclusive motto — Crypto for Everyone — now part of a broader initiative, the Crypto for Everyone Movement, aimed at onboarding the next billion users. Through this, it plans to incentivize the community with a pool of over $1 million as gratitude for support.

    “The role of wallets is evolving — it’s moving from a niche tool to one with real-world utility for everyday needs,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “This rebrand is part of a longer-term plan to make crypto accessible for everyone. We’re building towards a future where interacting with crypto feels as easy as using Uber or Paypal,” he added. Bitget Wallet’s growth has coincided with increased demand for self-custody and alternative financial access, particularly in regions where banking infrastructure is limited. The platform saw a 300% increase in users over the past year, with the fastest growth in Africa (+959%), Europe (+367%), and the Middle East (+350%), as more individuals turn to crypto to navigate inflation, limited banking access, and economic instability, gaining greater control over their finances.

    Bitget Wallet’s rebrand focuses on making crypto easier to use and more practical for everyday needs. Built around four core features — Trade, Earn, Pay, and Discover — the wallet lets users track market trends, explore new tokens, and trade across over 130 blockchains with one click. In selected regions, a new Simple Mode will be launched to offer a streamlined experience for users who are new to crypto. To support secure usage, it includes protections like real-time risk monitoring and transaction screening, helping users navigate onchain finance more safely.

    Bitget Wallet is among the first to launch an in-app shop and remains the only major self-custodial wallet offering full payment flexibility, including crypto cards, QR code scans, and direct purchases. The shop supports over 300 brands across gaming, mobile, travel, and e-commerce, enabling crypto payments at Amazon, Google Play, Shopee, and more. Regional integrations with national QR payment systems are also underway. Building on this everyday utility, the wallet offers yield features to help users earn passive income on their crypto balances and plans to support tokenized real-world assets like stocks and gold as it expands beyond digital assets.

    “Bitget Wallet stands strong with the essence of crypto extending beyond our decentralized vision, serving as a critical access layer across trading, earning, and payments for onchain assets. Users now have an even more powerful tool — simple to use, accessible, and packed with capabilities — that connects people to opportunity, wherever they are, whenever they need,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.

    To mark the rebrand, Bitget Wallet is launching the Crypto for Everyone Movement in partnership with leading ecosystem projects, offering over $1 million in rewards and inviting users to explore the updated platform through interactive campaigns.

    More details on the brand update and product roadmap are available on the Bitget Wallet blog. Watch the brand video on YouTube.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets.
    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

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

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Bitget. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/62942f0e-9b03-4122-91be-4dd57d364f1a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3937725-8626-4018-bbab-fc0fe485b879

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/235a4208-356f-44ed-8016-20c19a845169

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 1600 children and young people take part in Benedetti Foundation residency

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Pupils and young string instrumentalists from 50 City of Edinburgh Council schools have taken part in the prestigious Benedetti Foundation Residency which took place from May 12 to 15.

    The week started with the Benedetti Foundation delivering concert performances at nine primary schools in Edinburgh to approximately 1200 learners across the city, before the city’s young string players, from P5 to P7, came together for a ‘play day’ in collaboration with the City of Edinburgh Council Instrumental Music Service.

    The Benedetti Sessions Strings Day workshop was attended by violin, viola, cello and double bass players from P5 to P7 and S1 who took part in engaging sessions followed by a concert performance for parents and carers. The string orchestra was made of a staggering number of over 400 young musicians with 122 young people forming the enormous cello section.

    During the sessions, the children and young people worked with a team of 25 Instructors from the City of Edinburgh Council Schools Instrumental Service, tutors from the Benedetti Foundation and a group of ambassadors made up of Conservatoire students. Young musicians had the opportunity to practice and finesse two contrasting pieces of music – Bubble Pop and Enchanted Caroussel.

    The Residency session was delivered in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council Schools Instrumental Service who hosted the event, organised the venue and resources and supported in preparing learners in lessons ahead of the residency session. The Benedetti Foundation provided their expert tutor team to lead the day and provided the wonderful musicians to deliver the concerts in our schools.

    Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convener said:

    The City of Edinburgh Councils Schools Instrumental Service is a jewel in the crown of our education service with over 5,000 children and young people across Edinburgh benefitting from weekly instrumental lessons. I am proud to be part of a city that invests in making it accessible for all children and young people to learn to play a musical instrument.

    It is incredible to hear that over 400 of our young musicians took part in what I’m sure was a fantastic day of music making, collaboration and performance. My thanks to our schools’ instrumental teachers and to the team at the Benedetti Foundation for organising a special day that I’m sure will be a formative memory for those learners who attended.

    Published: May 21st 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland gears up for active fun with family events at Ford and Downhill Football Hubs this May Half-Term

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents across Sunderland are being invited to join a packed schedule of family fun at the Ford and Downhill Football Hubs this May half term. This is part of the city’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles for all ages and abilities.

    On Wednesday 28 May, head over to Ford Football Hub and drop in for a day packed with fun activities that are perfect for all ages and abilities. From exciting family games to gentle movement sessions, there’s something for everyone.

    Try your hand at basketball with Lambton Raptors, enjoy some friendly non-contact rugby with Vigor Rugby, or jump into classic group games with ParkPlay – a big hit with kids and grown-ups alike. There’s even Walking Football for those who prefer a gentler pace, and light, music-filled sessions like Clubbercise that are all about having fun.

    Families can also hop on the Melissa Bus – an interactive mobile space where you can explore health and wellbeing in a hands-on, engaging way.
    Kids will love the smoothie bike, where they can pedal their way to a fruity treat, while parents can browse stalls from NHS Oral Health, Everyone Active, and other local groups offering friendly tips and advice.

    The fun continues on Friday 30 May at Downhill Football Hub, where the day features even more inclusive activities. Fancy a stretch and a moment of calm? Join the Stretch & Relax session – great for loosening up and taking a breather together. The Family Fit 4 Fun session, run by the Active Sunderland Healthy Lifestyle Team, is all about playful movement and bonding as a family – no experience needed!

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “These events are all about bringing families together to enjoy activity together – moments of movement, fun, and connection. Whether you’re playing games, trying something new, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

    To find out more details about Active Sunderland family fun days, visit www.mysunderland.co.uk/familyfun

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of SigmaTron International, Inc. – SGMA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating SigmaTron International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SGMA), relating to the proposed merger with Transom Capital Group, LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, an affiliate of Transom will commence a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock for $3.02 per share in cash.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/sigmatron-international-inc-sgma/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Rhizome Secures $6.5M in Seed Funding to Meet Surging Demand for Resilience Planning

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rhizome, the leading climate resilience planning platform for the power grid, today announced the close of a $6.5 million oversubscribed Seed funding round led by Base10 Partners. The company will use the funding to scale their AI platform and team as they continue to help utilities protect their grid and customers from the impacts of extreme weather events. Rhizome will focus on building out its existing platform, new product research and development, and expanding its geographic footprint domestically and internationally.

    Rhizome, launched in 2023, supports utilities by helping them model the impacts of increasingly severe extreme weather events against their systems. By leveraging AI against climate risk data and digital representations of the physical grid, Rhizome’s platform identifies vulnerabilities and prioritizes resilience investments and upgrades. This fundraise will further fuel Rhizome’s mission to integrate climate intelligence into utility planning workflows at a time when grid resilience has never been more crucial.

    Extreme weather events are rapidly increasing in frequency, intensity, and cost. In 2024 alone, the U.S. faced 27 billion-dollar climate and weather disasters, totaling over $182 billion in damages. For electric utilities, the stakes are particularly high. A McKinsey analysis found that major storms have cost individual utilities an average of $1.4 billion over a 20-year period, underscoring the urgent need for smarter, more resilient infrastructure planning in the face of growing climate volatility.

    At the same time, electric utility capital expenditures hit a record $179 billion, with projections rising to $194 billion in 2025. In an environment where every dollar counts, utilities need advanced planning tools that can simulate a range of climate scenarios — removing the guesswork from resilience planning and helping every dollar go further.

    “We set out to partner with investors who deeply understand the power sector and share our commitment to solving pressing climate resilience challenges,” said Mishal Thadani, Co-founder and CEO of Rhizome. “This funding allows us to scale our work and continue refining a suite of products that help utilities prepare the grid for an increasingly uncertain future.”

    Base10 is joined in the Seed round by first-time Rhizome investors in MCJ and CLAI. They join Convective Capital, El Cap, Streetlife Ventures, Stepchange, and Everywhere in closing out the oversubscribed round, all of whom also participated in prior Rhizome fundraises.

    “Resilience is unquestionably one of the most important factors in ensuring a safe, reliable power grid,” said Rexhi Dollaku, General Partner at Base10 Partners. “Mish, Rahul, and the team bring the right mix of vision, urgency, and technical depth to solve this challenge, and we’re proud to support them.”

    In just under two years, Rhizome has developed and commercialized a suite of mission-specific products used by electric utilities in diverse geographical regions. Its flagship product, gridADAPT, supports long-term infrastructure planning by helping utilities prioritize investments that improve reliability and resilience. This was followed by the launch of gridFIRM, a first-of-its-kind platform for wildfire risk mitigation, and most recently, gridCAVA –– an affordable climate vulnerability assessment tool designed specifically for municipal and cooperative utilities. Built on Rhizome’s scalable, cloud-based Aspen platform, these tools round out a powerful portfolio of climate resilience planning tools designed to model current and future climate risk against utility infrastructure, available to utilities across Rhizome’s expanding geographical footprint.

    Rhizome is actively engaged in utility partnerships across the U.S. and Canada, supporting organizations facing a range of region-specific climate risks. Current customers include Avangrid, Seattle City Light, Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO), Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC). Rhizome also has a range of strategic collaborations that include EPRI’s Climate READi, KPMG, Black and Veatch, and the University of Connecticut.

    Rhizome is expanding its platform, growing its team, and partnering with more utilities to strengthen resilience in the face of climate-driven threats. Contact Rhizome or visit here to learn more about the company’s expanding portfolio of climate risk solutions.

    About Rhizome
    Rhizome is an AI-powered software platform that helps utilities identify vulnerabilities from climate threats, quantify risk at high resolutions, and measure the economic and social benefits of grid-enhancing investments. Rhizome provides the highest standard of equitable climate risk mitigation to ensure that communities and businesses are protected against intensifying extreme weather events.

    About Base10 Partners
    Founded by Adeyemi Ajao and TJ Nahigian, Base10 is a San Francisco-based venture capital fund investing in founders who believe purpose is key to profits and companies that are automating sectors of the Real Economy, including transportation, retail, logistics, and construction. Through its program, The Advancement Initiative, Base10 aims to donate 50% of profits to underfunded colleges and universities to support financial aid and other key initiatives. Portfolio companies include Notion, Figma, Nubank, Stripe, Motive, Chili Piper, and Popmenu. Connect via base10.vc.

    Media Contact
    FischTank PR
    rhizome@fischtankpr.com

    Additional Inquiries ** or ** Business Development Inquiries
    Dea Pratt, Head of Marketing
    dea@rhizomedata.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: MPTS 2025 celebrates largest edition ever with record visitor numbers, reveals MBI, a GlobalData company

    Source: GlobalData

    The UK’s most powerful hub for the creative industries united for two days of engaged networking, passionate debate and exceptional insights into AI, the creator economy, production craft and more – helping attendees stay ahead-of-the-curve for the year ahead.

    London, United Kingdom, 21 May 2025 – After two exceptional days of conversation, collaboration and community, the biggest and buzziest MPTS yet welcomed a record 13,000 attendees from 50 countries, uniting the UK’s media and entertainment industry together in the heart of London, like never before. The exhibition is organized by Media Business Insight (MBI) Ltd, a GlobalData company.

    Hosted at London’s Olympia on 14-15 May, the red-hot editorially driven program delivered 100+ free-to-attend sessions across eight theatres, showcasing the insight and passion of more than 350 expert speakers and guest keynotes. The bustling show floor was packed with more than 300 exhibitors and sponsors, showcasing imagination, determination and standout talent of the UK’s creative and technical communities – at a time of both global challenge and immense opportunity.

    Setting the agenda for MPTS, a State of the Nation Production keynote outlined a media and entertainment landscape in which storytellers had to embrace screens, formats and creators of all kinds.

    Kate Beal, CEO, Woodcut Media, asserted: “TV doesn’t exist anymore in the way we knew it.”

    Derren Lawford, CEO, Dare Pictures, said: “We are in the middle of a decade of profound transition, and we are past the tipping point. TV is part of a wider, connected series of industries around the creation and distribution and funding of content.”

    Headliners at MPTS include:

    • Producer and presenter Ross Kemp, who took us on an exhilarating tour of investigative documentaries on the front lines of conflict, drug cartels and organised crime gangs. “They will know in a second if you are not telling the truth,” he said. “I specialize in telling the truth, it is as simple as that.”
    • Georgie Holt, whose company Flight Story produces the world’s second biggest podcast ‘Diary of a CEO’, declared: “We are in the era of the Founder Creator — creators who are now in charge of media content and able to monetise spectacularly outside of traditional gatekeepers.”
    • NFL professional turned American Football broadcaster Jason Bell explained how sports coverage was evolving into the F1 Drive To Survive model, in which athlete personalities and back stories were the keys to growing audiences.
    • Blockbuster editor Eddie Hamilton gave a masterclass about the precision involved in making Top Gun: Maverick and five Mission: Impossible movies with Tom Cruise. He said: “Every nuance is refined hundreds of times. Sometimes we watch a 10-minute scene 40 times in a day, checking to see where your eye is moving in the frame.”

    Diverse representation is a vital sign of the industry’s health and MPTS is proud to set the benchmark to secure equal representation and attendance from the next generation, not only across the program, but also something clearly witnessed across the show floor amongst exhibitors and attendees.

    MPTS also prioritizes the crucial importance of sustainability and, in continuing association with BAFTA albert brought this conversation to the fore with experts including Peter Okell, Sky Studios Elstree; Luke Seraphin, Sky Studios and Claire O’Neill, A Greener Future speaking in the Sustainability Series.

    Sam Street, Marketing Officer, BAFTA Albert commented: “MPTS is a really key moment in our calendar. It is always so great to connect with suppliers, companies, studios and creatives who share our common passion for sustainability within screen industries. It has also been really valuable to curate our sustainability series of panels across this year’s show, we’ve had some really insightful discussions and emphasised the importance of environmental focus throughout the screen industries.”

    We did not need a machine to predict the high demand for news and information about AI. The brand-new ticketed AI Training program and the expanded AI Media Zone drew exceptional attendance, with exhibitors such as Dot Group, Moments Lab and Software. Conversations in these packed-out sessions revolved around the impact of AI from ideation to VFX, featuring real-world insights and discussions on bridging the gap between theory and practice from speakers including Pete Archer, BBC; Jon Roberts, ITN and Damien Viel, Banijay Entertainment.

    With a record number of exhibitors already rebooking for 2026, MPTS continues to prove its value as the UK’s number one event for media and production professionals, where brands, creatives and decision-makers come together to connect, collaborate and grow.

    Jane Shepard, Senior Channel Marketing Manager, Sandisk, said: “MPTS 2025 was a spectacular showcase of innovation, bringing together the brightest minds and cutting-edge technology in the industry. An unforgettable experience for all attendees.”

    Tom Rundle, Application Engineer, Yamaha Music, said: “It has been very busy for us. We have seen a huge mix of customers from the broadcast sector here, but also customers from the other industries which we serve, whether that’s live or theatre who have deliberately come to the show to seek us out to speak to us. Will we be back next year? Yes, absolutely, this is the first year for us, so it was always a bit of a toe in the water, but it’s been vastly more successful than we thought it was going to be.”

    Peter Alderson, Business Manager, Nikon, said: “This is our second year at MPTS, we’ve gone a little bit bigger on our stands, almost doubling it, and I think it’s definitely been worthwhile doing. We’ve partnered with RED, who we recently purchased, and MRMC so it’s making a lovely statement about where we are in the market, and I think we’re in the right place to make that statement here at MPTS.”

    Jennifer Hudson, Marketing Executive, Videndum, said: “This show is really important in our calendar – we attend nearly every year and find so much value in it. We get to meet with so many different professionals within the industry, and this year has been really, really positive for us. We’ve walked away with quite a few leads and made new relationships. It’s a fantastic show, and we would thoroughly recommend anyone thinking about coming and having a stand here to definitely do it – you won’t regret it.”

    Will Pitt, Head of Sales Solutions, Techex, said: “My impression of the show is that it’s been incredibly busy and very positive. Techex particularly specialise in solving some of the headaches that a lot of the broadcast industry is grappling with at the moment, namely, how they transition into an IP-led architecture from a legacy architecture and what that journey looks like. As such, our standards have been packed pretty much throughout the show to come and look at products, but also to come and talk about ideas and lean into what that journey looks like specifically for them. So not a generic journey, but specific to their drivers and their wants and needs in the short and medium term. We particularly like MPTS because it’s London based and many of the engineers that we speak to and collaborate with are based here and therefore it’s an easy journey for them to take half a day, a day out to come and investigate what we have to offer, but also to have those conversations. And so for organisations like WBD or Sky, the BBC, ITV, etc. They can come here quite easily and engage with us, spend some time talking in real life and not over teams or Zoom.”

    Charlotte Wheeler, Event Director, MPTS said: “Without doubt, 2025 was the most stimulating, ahead-of-the-curve MPTS yet. At a time when we are seeing the industry under real pressure from budget cuts to talent shortages and perpetual change, the conversations and connections on the show floor were positive and demonstrated infectious community spirit. The level of attendance and the quality of attendees from across all sectors of the industry was incredible – not just stakeholders in technology but representatives from production and commissioning, the creator economy, those new to the industry and freelancers were all brought together by MPTS under one roof.

    “A huge amount of work goes into making sure that there is equal representation across our extensive conference programme. I am proud that MPTS is one of – if not the – most diverse shows both in terms of attendees and panellists.

    “Thank you to everyone for exhibiting, sponsoring, speaking, attending and engaging with the show to make MPTS such a thrilling success. We are already planning for 2026, which marks MPTS’ 10th edition, so look forward to a landmark celebration!”

    Save the date for MPTS 2026 when we return to Olympia Grand Hall, London on 13 – 14 May 2026.

    The conversation does not stop when the doors close. MPTS is more than just two days a year – it is a connected, year-round community for the broadcast and media industry. From on-demand content to exclusive events, there’s still so much to explore. Stay connected with us: https://www.mediaproductionshow.com/register-interest

    To enquire about exhibiting at our landmark 10th edition, please go to: https://www.mediaproductionshow.com/stand-enquiry

    MBI is the publisher of market-leading titles including Broadcast, Broadcast Sport, Broadcast Tech, KFTV, The Knowledge and Screen International.

     

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chair and members of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee appointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Chair and members of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee appointed

    Dr David Cooper named as new Chair; Professor Tom Meagher reappointed and Professor Julia Jones confirmed as new member

    Dr David Cooper has been appointed as the Chair of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC). The appointment was made in conjunction with the devolved governments and is for a three-year term from 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2028.

    Professor Tom Meagher has been reappointed as an independent member of the Committee. Tom’s term will run for four years until 3 April 2029. 

    Furthermore, Professor Julia Jones has been appointed as an independent member of the Committee. Julia’s term will run for three years until 31 May 2028.

    The new appointments have been made on merit and in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    As the UK’s statutory advisor on nature, the JNCC provides scientific evidence and advice to the devolved governments of the UK, the UK government, and the UK’s Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies, to help policymakers turn science into action for nature.

    Biographical details

    Dr David Cooper

    • David Cooper is Visiting Fellow at the Oxford Martin School and Honorary Researcher of the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery at the University of Oxford.
    • David has more than 30 years’ experience in international science and policy, including at the Convention on Biological Diversity and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. As CBD Deputy Executive Secretary and Acting Executive Secretary, he was instrumental in facilitating the development and adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and related agreements.
    • David has contributed to the work of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services among other scientific reports and assessments.
    • He has chaired a number of bodies including the Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management, the Biodiversity Indicators Partnership, and the Inter-agency liaison group on Invasive Alien Species.

    Professor Tom Meagher

    • Tom Meagher has been a member of the JNCC since April 2021. He is Professor of Plant Biology at the University of St Andrews and served as Director of the St Andrews Global Challenges Forum. He was previously a member of the Defra Science Advisory Council and the Natural Environment Research Council.
    • Tom leads an international and interdisciplinary initiative developing novel remote sensing technology to aid the assessment and conservation of plant biodiversity. He has also worked with the British Council, the British Embassy Lima, and government agencies in Peru to promote the establishment of a national botanic garden and plant biodiversity initiative.
    • He has been an active contributor to the Scottish Government’s environmental and conservation science strategy, following his former role as a Trustee of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

    Julia Jones

    • Julia Jones is Professor in Conservation Science at Bangor University and currently holds the Prince Bernhard Chair of International Nature Conservation at Utrecht University.
    • She is a trustee of WWF-UK and is a member of the British Ecological Society and the Society for Conservation Biology. She serves on the advisory board of the Sounds Right initiative, a collaboration between the Museum for the United Nations and the music industry to allow nature to collect royalties from her sounds.
    • She has previously served as the Director of the Low Carbon Energy and Environment Research Network Wales, and on the Welsh committee of the RSPB.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Prestigious classical and jazz labels open dedicated China branches

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

    Deutsche Grammophon (DG) and Blue Note Records, two of the world’s most iconic classical and jazz labels, launched Chinese branches on May 15 as the country’s audience for these genres continues to expand.

    The labels will operate dedicated China imprints in collaboration with Universal Music Greater China, the companies said.

    Executives launch Deutsche Grammophon China in Shanghai, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

    “For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have held a special place in the hearts of Chinese classical and jazz musicians,” said Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China.

    “These labels have deeply influenced how local artists understand, study and create within these genres. Today marks a new beginning. For the first time, these two iconic brands are establishing dedicated labels in China to engage directly with local artists and communities.”

    The new labels will focus on discovering Chinese talent, developing original creative work and connecting local musicians with international audiences, according to company executives.

    Xu said DG China and Blue Note Records China “will be fully committed to discovering and supporting the next generation of talent emerging from China.”

    “Through these efforts, we hope to contribute to the growth and appreciation of classical and jazz music in China and to help bring the richness of Chinese musical expression into deeper dialogue with the world,” he said.

    “By combining the global heritage and artistic leadership of these two iconic labels with the market knowledge and cultural insight of our local team, we are creating a stronger platform to connect Chinese talent with global opportunities,” said Adam Granite, executive vice president for market development at Universal Music Group.

    Pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang, along with Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Music Director Yu Long, all longtime DG artists, will serve as artistic advisors to DG China, executives announced at the launch event.

    Lang Lang said in a video message that “Deutsche Grammophon has been my musical home for many years, and I’m thrilled to see the launch of DG China.”

    “I believe DG China will be a key platform for emerging Chinese musicians and help connect classical music with broader audiences,” he said. “I also hope it will bring more Chinese voices to the global stage, a mission I deeply believe in and am proud to support.”

    DG China will release its first album, “Bach: The Cello Suites,” performed by cellist Wang Jian on May 23, with plans to record all of Dmitri Shostakovich’s symphonies with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra by 2029 to mark the orchestra’s 150th anniversary. Yu Long called it “also a powerful expression of the artistry and interpretive depth of Chinese musicians today.”

    Executives launch Blue Note Records China in Shanghai, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

    Blue Note Records China, a new division of the iconic jazz label known for artists like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, will focus on developing local talent while bringing Chinese jazz to international audiences, executives said.

    The label’s first signing is INNOUT, an avant-garde jazz duo composed of guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. The duo combines jazz with electronic elements and experimental composition in a style that has gained recognition in China’s contemporary jazz scene.

    Don Was, president of Blue Note Records, said: “Xiao Jun and An Yu are two of the most talented and visionary musicians I’ve ever met. Their music is going to blow people’s minds all over the world. It’s a thrill and an honor to be able to launch Blue Note Records China with their music.”

    Blue Note Records China will also partner with JZ Music, a major player in China’s jazz scene, to develop live performance opportunities, including tours, festivals and venue events. The partnership aims to increase Chinese jazz visibility both locally and internationally.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Morabo Morojele: Lesotho’s swinging jazz drummer who became a literary star

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Gwen Ansell, Associate of the Gordon Institute for Business Science, University of Pretoria

    We use the term “Renaissance man” very loosely these days, for anybody even slightly multi-talented. But Lesotho-born jazz drummer, novelist and development scholar Morabo Morojele was the genuine article.

    He not only worked across multiple fields, but achieved impressively in all. Morojele died on 20 May, aged 64.

    As a researcher into South African jazz, I encountered him initially through his impressive live performances. I was surprised to hear about his first novel and then – as a teacher of writing – bowled over by its literary power.

    Celebrating a life such as Morojele’s matters, because a pan-African polymath like him cut against the grain of a world of narrow professional boxes, where borders are increasingly closing to “foreigners”.

    This was a man who not only played the jazz changes, but wrote – and lived – the social and political ones.

    The economist who loved jazz

    Born on 16 September 1960 in Maseru, Lesotho, Morojele schooled at the Waterford Kamhlaba United World College in Swaziland (now Eswatini) before being accepted to study at the London School of Economics.

    In London in the early 1980s the young economics student converted his longstanding jazz drumming hobby into a professional side gig. There was a vibrant African diasporic music community, respected by and often sharing stages with their British peers. Morojele worked, among others, in the bands of South African drummer Julian Bahula and Ghanaian saxophonist George Lee. With Lee’s outfit, Dadadi, he recorded Boogie Highlife Volume 1 in 1985.

    Studies completed and back in Lesotho, Morojele founded the small Afro-jazz group Black Market and later the trio Afro-Blue. He worked intermittently with other Basotho music groups including Sankomota, Drizzle and Thabure while building links with visiting South African artists. For them neighbouring Lesotho provided less repressive stages than apartheid South Africa.

    Morojele relocated to Johannesburg in 1995 and picked up his old playing relationship with Lee, by then also settled there. His drum prowess caught the eye of rising star saxophonist Zim Ngqawana. With bassist Herbie Tsoaeli and pianist Andile Yenana, he became part of the reedman’s regular rhythm section.




    Read more:
    Zakes Mda on his latest novel, set in Lesotho’s musical gang wars


    The three rhythm players developed a close bond and a distinctive shared vision, which led to their creating a trio and an independent repertoire. Later they were joined by saxophonist Sydney Mnisi and trumpeter Marcus Wyatt to form the quintet Voice.

    Voice was often the resident band at one of Johannesburg’s most important post-liberation jazz clubs: the Bassline. Although the 1994-founded venue was just a cramped little storefront in a bohemian suburb, it provided a stage for an entire new generation of indigenous jazz and pan-African music in its nine years. Voice was an important part of that identity, audible on their second recording.

    Morojele on drums for Andile Yenana.

    Morojele also recorded with South African jazz stars like Bheki Mseleku and McCoy Mrubata. He appeared on stage with everyone from Abdullah Ibrahim to Feya Faku.

    His drum sound had a tight, disciplined, almost classical swing, punctuated visually by kinetic energy, and sonically by hoarse, breathy vocalisations. Voice playing partner Marcus Wyatt recalls:

    The first time I played with you, I remember being really freaked out by those vocal sound effects coming from the drum kit behind me, but the heaviness of your swing far outweighed the heaviness of the grunting. That heavy swing was in everything you did – the way you spoke, the way you loved, the way you drank, the way you wrote, the way you lived your life.

    Wyatt also recalls a gentle, humble approach to making music together, but spiced with sharp, unmuted honesty – “You always spoke your mind” – and intense, intellectual after-show conversations about much more than music.

    Because Morojele had never abandoned his other life as a development scholar and consultant. He was travelling extensively and engaging with (and acutely feeling the hurt of) the injustices and inequalities of the world. Between those two vocations, a third was insinuating itself into the light: that of writer.

    The accidental writer

    He said in an interview:

    I came to writing almost by accident … I’ve always enjoyed writing (but) I never grew up thinking I was going to be a writer.

    In 2006, after what he described in interviews as a series of false starts, he produced a manuscript that simply “wrote itself”, How We Buried Puso.

    Starting with the preparations for a brother’s funeral, the novel – set in Lesotho – reflects on the diverse personal and societal meanings of liberation in the “country neighbouring” (South Africa) and at home. How new meanings for old practices are forged, and how the personal and the political intertwine and diverge. All set to Lesotho’s lifela music. The book was shortlisted for the 2007 M-Net Literary Award.

    There was an 18-year hiatus before Morojele’s second novel, 2023’s The Three Egg Dilemma. Now that he was settled again in Lesotho, music was less and less a viable source of income, and development work filled his time. “I suppose,” he said, “I forgot I was a writer.” But, in the end, that book “also wrote itself, because I didn’t have an outline … it just became what it is almost by accident.”

    In 2022, a serious health emergency hit; he was transported to South Africa for urgent surgery.

    The Three Egg Dilemma, unfolding against an unnamed near-future landscape that could also be Lesotho, broadens his canvas considerably.

    The setting could as easily be any nation overtaken by the enforced isolation of a pandemic or the dislocation of civil war and military dictatorship, forcing individuals to rethink and re-make themselves. And complicated by the intervention of a malign ghost: a motif that Morojele said had been in his mind for a decade.

    For this powerful second novel, Morojele was joint winner of the University of Johannesburg prize for South African writing in English.

    He was working on his third fiction outing – a collection of short stories – at the time of his death.

    The beauty of his work lives on

    Morojele’s creative career was remarkable. What wove his three identities – musician, development worker and writer – together were his conscious, committed pan-Africanism and his master craftsman’s skill with sound: the sound of his drums and the sound of his words as they rose off the page.

    Through the books, and the (far too few) recordings, that beauty lives with us still. Robala ka khotso (Sleep in peace).

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

    – ref. Morabo Morojele: Lesotho’s swinging jazz drummer who became a literary star – https://theconversation.com/morabo-morojele-lesothos-swinging-jazz-drummer-who-became-a-literary-star-257256

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Flywire Surpasses $320 Million in Past-Due Tuition Collected and 161,000+ Student Enrollments Saved at U.S. Higher Education Institutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Flywire’s Student Financial Software helps U.S. institutions boost enrollment and accelerate cash flow

    Automated payment innovation fuels accelerated adoption of Flywire’s Third-Party Invoicing and 529 Disbursement solutions

    BOSTON, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flywire Corporation (Flywire) (Nasdaq: FLYW) – a global payments enablement and software company – announced today that more than 100 colleges and universities in the United States that use Flywire’s Student Financial Software (SFS) collected more than $320 million in past-due tuition to keep more than 161,000 at-risk students enrolled. These results are part of the ongoing commitment that Flywire is making to its higher education clients in the U.S. to help them accelerate revenue, while optimizing for student success.

    Faced with mounting pressure to create more sustainable revenue streams, U.S. higher education institutions have adopted Flywire’s SFS solution to better streamline the student journey and address education affordability by providing more dynamic payment plans and accelerating past-due collections to help retain students. The return on investment from Flywire’s Collection Management offering of SFS is particularly strong, as it helps institutions avoid the costly process of sending students to collections, which typically charges on average 20% to collect past-due tuition owed. As one example, Purdue University – a Flywire client for cross-border tuition payments and digital 529 disbursements since 2021 – went live with Flywire’s Collection Management offering of SFS in March of 2024 to automate communications and payment plans to collect more past-due tuition faster. Within months, Purdue saved more than 300 students from going to collections, and recovered more than $1 million in revenue that would otherwise have been written off.

    “I can’t imagine how much extra work we’d have to be doing if we were still doing collections the old way. It’s kind of a lifesaver. Our write-offs will go down because of Flywire.” – Chad Lester, Associate Bursar, Account Resolution and Loan Administration, Purdue University

    Ongoing innovation also solves payment challenges around 529 disbursements and third-party payments

    Flywire’s U.S. clients have also begun adopting its third-party invoicing solution, which streamlines the payment experience for third-party sponsors paying a student’s tuition and fees, as well as its 529 disbursements, which digitizes the otherwise manual process of 529 plan payment checks. Since the inception of its 529 solution, Flywire has digitized over $2 billion in tuition payments by eliminating the manual processing of more than 502,000 checks for institutions in the U.S., with more than 750 institutions in the U.S. signed on for the solution. This expansion of these payment capabilities demonstrates Flywire’s commitment to addressing every aspect of the student payment journey, extending its expertise beyond cross-border transactions to deliver comprehensive payment solutions that help clients work smarter.

    “When I first started with Flywire, they were just payments. Now they’ve put 529 solutions in, again a big problem in our university, all the checks. They’ve put in collections and now third-party invoicing. Everything they do makes our jobs easier.” – Janet Hicks, Associate Controller, Student Accounting Services, University of South Florida

    Strengthening partnerships to enhance capabilities for clients and embed deeper within broader education ecosystem

    Flywire directly integrates with a number of leading technology providers, from large ERPs like Ellucian, to Admission and Enrollment Providers like CommonApp, and other software systems. Through these integrations, Flywire is helping institutions improve operational efficiency to ultimately provide better staff and student experiences.

    To strengthen its footprint in the U.S., Flywire has recently partnered with some of the largest and most recognized education technology providers to provide:

    • Tuition insurance through GradGuard to provide Flywire’s higher education clients in the U.S. access to an integrated policy disclosure process that assures greater financial literacy of students and their families
    • Streamlined payment experience through BlackBaud to provide international students enables a seamless payment experience, and help independent schools streamline incoming payments, including tuition and enrollment fees
    • Digital delivery of student loan payments funded and managed by some of the largest banks and loan providers in India, including Credila and State Bank of India   
    • Strengthened international recruitment network of more than 20,000 key recruitment counselors such as IDP, KC Overseas and more to help institutes diversify their recruitment efforts and streamline enrollment from international students.

    Resources

    • Meet with Flywire at NAFSA 2025, May 26 – May 30, Booth #626 and join Flywire’s sessions with NYU, IDP, ICEF, AIRC, INTO and GeNEOus to learn more about how Flywire is powering the global education ecosystem.
    • To learn more about Flywire’s solutions for the U.S. higher education industry, visit here
    • The Flywire Fusion U.S. Education Client Conference & Awards Ceremony is taking place October 20-22 at the Lansdowne Resort in historic Leesburg, Virginia. Save your spot here.

    About Flywire

    Flywire is a global payments enablement and software company. We combine our proprietary global payments network, next-gen payments platform and vertical-specific software to deliver the most important and complex payments for our clients and their customers.

    Flywire leverages its vertical-specific software and payments technology to deeply embed within the existing A/R workflows for its clients across the education, healthcare and travel vertical markets, as well as in key B2B industries. Flywire also integrates with leading ERP systems, such as NetSuite, so organizations can optimize the payment experience for their customers while eliminating operational challenges.

    Flywire supports more than 4,600 clients with diverse payment methods in more than 140 currencies across more than 240 countries and territories around the world. The company is headquartered in Boston, MA, USA with global offices. For more information, visit www.flywire.com. Follow Flywire on X , LinkedIn and Facebook.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    ​​This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements regarding Flywire’s expectations regarding the benefits of its education clients and business, Flywire’s business strategy and plans, market growth and trends. Flywire intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as, but not limited to, “believe,” “may,” “will,” “potentially,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “could,” “would,” “project,” “target,” “plan,” “expect,” or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations that involve risks, changes in circumstances, assumptions, and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in Flywire’s forward-looking statements include, among others, the factors that are described in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of Flywire’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, which are on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and available on the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov/. The information in this release is provided only as of the date of this release, and Flywire undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release on account of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contacts

    Media:
    Sarah King
    Media@Flywire.com

    Investor Relations:
    Masha Kahn
    IR@Flywire.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel CEO Andy Ross to Rock Coca-Cola 600 Weekend with Multiple High-Energy Concerts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Three Days of Music, Racing, Patriotism and American Rebel Light Beer – Andy Ross will Perform for Thousands at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s THOR Camper Appreciation Party, Iron Thunder Saloon/Speedway Harley-Davidson, and BetMGM Speed Street Stage

    Nashville, TN, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), announces that American Rebel CEO Andy Ross will perform multiple concerts for thousands of race fans during the Coca-Cola 600 Weekend at the Charlotte Motor Speedway (charlottemotorspeedway.com) May 22 – 25.

    Festivities will begin Thursday, May 22 as Andy Ross will headline the THOR Camper Appreciation Party, performing for campers throughout the sold out 2700 campsite facility. Driver appearances will kick off each stop of the THOR Camper Appreciation Party, followed by a 30-minute set by Andy Ross. The party begins at the Camping World Racing Resort Log Cabin at 6 pm, followed by the Turn 4 Campground at 7, the Turn 1 Campground at 8 and the final stop at 9 at the Legendary Infield Campground.

    Saturday, May 24, Andy will perform a 90-minute set at Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill at 2:30 pm, prior to the running of the NASCAR Infinity Series BetMGM 300. The concert at Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill will be a collaboration with Speedway Harley-Davidson, bringing together race fans and Harley enthusiasts and getting everyone pumped up for the NASCAR Infinity Series BetMGM 300.

    Closing out the weekend, Andy will perform a 90-minute set at the BetMGM Speed Street Stage starting at 2 pm, getting everyone ready for the Coca-Cola 600. The BetMGM Speed Street Stage will be a center for entertainment all weekend as Smash Mouth will appear on the BetMGM Speed Street Stage on Saturday night along with driver appearances, merchandise, games and prizes all weekend long.

    “I can’t wait to get back to Charlotte,” said Andy Ross. “Our concert at the American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals was a blast and Rebel Light was the #1 selling beer over that weekend in terms of number of beers sold and dollar volume. The midway was packed and everyone had a great time. Race fans will be ready to explode right before the Coca-Cola 600; and we’ll work hard to get them ready for the race each time we play. Each concert will be great, so if you’re a camper, come see us Thursday night. All are welcome Saturday at the Iron Thunder/Speedway Harley-Davidson concert and then everyone coming to the Coca-Cola 600 should be there early for our 2 pm concert on the BetMGM Speed Street Stage.”

    The Andy Ross concerts at Charlotte Motor Speedway during the Coca-Cola 600 weekend will keep American Rebel Light Beer top of mind and highly visible to build on the initial awareness created at the American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals April 25 – 27 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

    The Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill is located at 10023 Weddington Road Extension in Concord, right next to Speedway Harley-Davidson.

    About American Rebel Light:

    American Rebel Light is more than just a beer – it’s a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for every occasion.

    Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida and Indiana and is adding new distributors and territories regularly. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit americanrebelbeer.com or Instagram.com/americanrebelbeer/.

    Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a domestic premium light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is all natural, crisp, and clean with a bold taste and a lighter feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com

    American Rebel Beverages, LLC
    Todd Porter, President
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of a launch parties and concerts, actual launch timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contact:
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com
    info@americanrebel.com

    Media Contact:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@PrecisionPR.co

    For more details on American Rebel Light Beer and upcoming events, visit AmericanRebelBeer.com or follow @AmericanRebelBeer on social media.

    Attachment

    • American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. Announces Pricing of Upsized Offering of US$600 Million Convertible Senior Notes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced the pricing of its upsized offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$600 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”). The Notes have been offered to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Company has granted the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering an option to purchase up to an additional US$90 million principal amount of the Notes, exercisable for settlement within a 30-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the Notes are first issued.

    The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to enhance its content ecosystem to facilitate user growth, facilitate IP asset creation, and unleash its inherent potential. The Company also plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to improve its overall monetization efficiency, fund the Concurrent Repurchase (as defined below), fund future repurchases (from time to time) under its share repurchase program, and for other general corporate purposes.

    When issued, the Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of the Company. The Notes will mature on June 1, 2030, unless repurchased, redeemed or converted in accordance with their terms prior to such date. Holders may convert their Notes at their option at any time prior to the close of business on the seventh scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. The initial conversion rate of the Notes is 42.1747 Class Z ordinary shares per US$1,000 principal amount of Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately HK$185.63 per Class Z ordinary share and represents a conversion premium of approximately 27.1% above the closing price HK$146.00 per Class Z ordinary share of the Company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on May 21, 2025) and a premium of approximately 32.5% to the clearing share price of the Concurrent Delta Offering of HK$140.10 per Class Z ordinary share of the Company, and is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events described below. Upon conversion, subject to certain procedures and conditions set forth in the terms of the Notes, the Company will cause to be delivered the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share. Holders may elect to receive the Company’s American depositary shares (“ADS”), each representing one Class Z ordinary share, in lieu of Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion.

    The Company may redeem for cash all or any part of the Notes on or after June 6, 2028 if the last reported sale price of the Class Z ordinary shares has been at least 130% of the conversion price for the Notes then in effect for at least 20 trading days, whether or not consecutive, during any 30 consecutive trading day period preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (the “Optional Redemption”). In addition, the Company may redeem for cash all but not part of the Notes at any time if less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes originally issued remains outstanding at such time (the “Cleanup Redemption”). The Company may also redeem the Notes upon the occurrence of certain tax-related events (the “Tax Redemption”). Holders of the Notes may require the Company to repurchase for cash all or part of their Notes in cash on June 1, 2028, or in the event of certain fundamental changes. In connection with certain corporate events or if the Company issues a notice of Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption, it will, under certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate for holders who elect to convert their Notes in connection with such corporate event or such Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption.

    The Notes will bear interest at a rate of 0.625% per year, payable semiannually in arrears on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2025.

    The Company also announced the pricing of the previously announced concurrent offering of its 10,281,240 Class Z ordinary shares that are being borrowed from non-affiliate third parties and offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters” and the “Concurrent Delta Offering”, respectively), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates, at HK$140.10 per Class Z ordinary share. The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into off-market privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering generally corresponds to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. Any securities sold in the Concurrent Delta Offering are being offered and sold through a concurrent SEC-registered offering pursuant to a separate prospectus supplement and an accompanying base prospectus. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.

    The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.

    Other Matters

    The Notes, the Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion of the Notes or the ADSs deliverable in lieu thereof have not been registered under the Securities Act, or any state securities laws. They may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons, except in reliance on the exemption from registration under the Securities Act.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

    This press release contains information about the pending Notes Offering, and there can be no assurance that the Notes Offering will be completed.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    About Bilibili Inc.

    Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    Bilibili Inc.
    Juliet Yang
    Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
    Email: ir@bilibili.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Helen Wu
    Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    In the United States:

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: -1-212-481-2050
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. Announces Pricing of Offering of Class Z Ordinary Shares in Connection with Hedging Transactions of Certain Convertible Notes Investors and Terms of Concurrent Repurchase

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced the pricing of the separate SEC-registered underwritten offering of its Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share (the “Concurrent Delta Offering”).

    Concurrently, the Company announced pricing of the upsized offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$600 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company intends to grant the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional US$90 million in principal amount of the Notes.

    In connection with the Notes Offering, the Company announced the Concurrent Delta Offering, under which 10,281,240 of the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares, that have been borrowed from non-affiliate third parties are being offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters”), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates, at HK$140.10 per Class Z ordinary share. The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into off-market privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering generally corresponds to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.

    The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.

    The Company has filed an automatic shelf registration statement on Form F-3 (including a prospectus) with the SEC. The Concurrent Delta Offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the Concurrent Delta Offering. You may obtain these documents by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, a copy of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: Prospectus-ny@ny.email@gs.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 471-2526; or Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, c/o Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, 180 Varick Street, New York, New York 10014, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: prospectus@morganstanley.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 718-1649.

    Other Matters

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

    This press release contains information about the pending Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase, and there can be no assurance that the Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase will be completed.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, whether the Concurrent Delta Offering and/or Concurrent Repurchase will be completed, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    About Bilibili Inc.

    Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    Bilibili Inc.
    Juliet Yang
    Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
    Email: ir@bilibili.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Helen Wu
    Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    In the United States:

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: -1-212-481-2050
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: HTX Celebrates Crypto Loans 2.0 Launch with Unprecedented Lending Benefits

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, unveiled its next-generation “Crypto Loans 2.0” product on May 19. This enhanced version brings a refined structure and superior user experience, featuring multi-asset collateral, a smart dynamic Loan-to-Value (LTV) model, instant fund access, flexible repayment options, and zero fees. To mark this significant launch, HTX has rolled out two exclusive promotions: “Borrow & Earn” #7, where users can share a massive 5,000,000,000 $HTX prize pool, and the “Millions in Rewards Plus Margin Power-up” event, which provides BTC loan interest rates as low as 0.09% and an extra 10% discount on USDT loans.

    Unlock Multiple Benefits with HTX Loan Products

    To celebrate the grand launch of Crypto Loans 2.0 and commemorate the 15th anniversary of Bitcoin Pizza Day, HTX is simultaneously launching “Borrow & Earn” #7 and an exclusive limited-time margin promotion, delivering substantial rewards to our valued users.

    “Borrow & Earn” #7 runs from May 19 at 02:00 (UTC) to June 2 at 15:59 (UTC), featuring a total prize pool of 5,000,000,000 $HTX. Users simply need to borrow USDT using the Crypto Loans Flexible product during the event to earn a share of the $HTX prize pool, based on the interest paid — the more interest paid, the greater the rewards. Rewards will be credited to winners’ Spot accounts within 7 working days after the event ends.

    Concurrently, HTX has launched an exclusive margin promotion, “Millions in Rewards Plus Margin Power-up”, active from May 20 at 10:00 (UTC) to June 2 at 10:00 (UTC). For a single USDT loan of $1,000,000 or more, users can enjoy an extra 10% interest rate discount! This brings the annual interest rate down to as low as 3.9% (or 0.01% daily). There is no limit on borrowing frequency and each qualifying loan benefits from this generous discount.

    Don’t miss the Pizza Day 15th Anniversary Bonus! During the event, the top 10 users by cumulative loan volume will share 264,000,000 $HTX (worth $500). Register via the provided link to participate. Leverage these ultra-low interest rates to maximize potential returns and aim for substantial gains.

    Optimized Borrowing Experience with Multi-Asset Collateral

    Loan efficiency and asset liquidity have always been two major user-focused concerns. As a key highlight of this upgrade, HTX’s “Crypto Loans 2.0” introduces a multi-asset collateral mechanism, supporting over 20 mainstream cryptocurrencies as collateral assets, including USDT, BTC, ETH, TRX, DOGE, XRP, SOL, and AVAX. This significantly boosts users’ asset utilization efficiency.

    To further enhance the borrowing experience, HTX has expanded its loanable assets to include SOL, TON, and USDC, with USDC also available as a collateral option. Unlike the traditional single-asset collateral model, the multi-asset collateral mechanism allows users to unlock liquidity from their holdings while effectively reducing the risk of forced liquidation due to single-asset volatility.

    Another standout feature of this upgrade is HTX’s limited-time offer: an ultra-low 0.09% annual interest rate for BTC Flexible Loans, with borrowing limits up to 100 BTC. This remarkable rate represents a 555-fold reduction from the previous annual rate of over 5.0%, making it an exceptional deal. For example, borrowing BTC equivalent to approximately 1,000,000 USDT would incur a mere 2.37 USDT in daily interest — a truly remarkable saving.

    Crypto Loans 2.0 also offers the following advantages:

    • Smart Dynamic LTV Mechanism: Interest rates adjust in real time based on market conditions, ensuring industry-leading competitiveness. Annualized interest rates for Flexible Loans include 3.9% for USDT, 2.4% for ETH, and as low as 0.09% for BTC.
    • Flexible Term Options: Supports flexible configuration for both flexible and fixed terms (7/30/45/90 days).
    • Instant Fund Access & Flexible Repayment: Borrowed funds are delivered instantly, interest accrues every hour, and users enjoy the freedom to repay at any time, ensuring optimal fund efficiency.
    • Institutional-Grade Risk Control: Supports overcollateralized loans with leverage capped under 1X and tiered liquidation to safeguard accounts. Users retain all remaining collateral assets.
    • Personalized 1-on-1 VIP Service: Delivers customized loan limits, flexible currency selections, and special discounted interest rates for SVIP users.

    Crypto Loans 2.0 is now live! Users can access it via the HTX website by clicking “Loans” > “Crypto Loans”, or through the HTX App by tapping “More” > “Crypto Loans”. Here’s how to get started:

    HTX’s Crypto Loans 2.0 leads the industry with its ability to boost capital efficiency, lower liquidation risk, provide flexible investment options, and allow multi-asset collateral. Moving forward, HTX will continue to enhance its lending products, pushing the platform’s financial services toward greater efficiency, lower barriers, and broader diversification. Try Crypto Loans 2.0 now to enjoy seamless borrowing, ultra-low interest rates, and access to massive prize pools. Make every digital asset your strategic liquidity advantage on the road to financial freedom.

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.
    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.
    To learn more about HTX, please visit HTX Square or https://www.htx.com/, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord.

    For further inquiries, please contact Ruder Finn Asia ,glo-media@htx-inc.com.

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/14b88ed3-a6c4-4385-a159-c4c19897c5fe

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/890afb12-c1fa-4228-aace-ec265f82d5c3

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: XBP Europe to Update Investors at the Emerging Growth Conference on May 22, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON and SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XBP Europe Holdings, Inc. (“XBP Europe” or “the Company”) (NASDAQ: XBP), a pan-European integrator of bills, payments, and related solutions and services seeking to enable the digital transformation of its clients, is pleased to announce that it will be giving an update at the Emerging Growth Conference on May 22, 2025.

    This live, interactive online event will give shareholders and the investment community the opportunity to interact with the Company’s CEO, Andrej Jonovic, who will take questions from the audience. Please submit your questions in advance to Questions@EmergingGrowth.com, or ask your questions during the event.

    XBP Europe Holdings, Inc. will be presenting at 4:10 PM Eastern time for 12 minutes.

    Please register here to ensure you are able to attend the conference and receive any updates that are released:
    https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1709483&tp_key=7518636947&sti=xbp 

    If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available on EmergingGrowth.com and on the Emerging Growth YouTube Channel, http://www.YouTube.com/EmergingGrowthConference. The link to the presentation will be posted on our website at https://investors.xbpeurope.com/.

    About the Emerging Growth Conference
    The Emerging Growth conference is an effective way for public companies to present and communicate their new products, services and other major announcements to the investment community from the convenience of their office, in a time efficient manner.

    The Conference focus and coverage includes companies in a wide range of growth sectors, with strong management teams, innovative products & services, focused strategy, execution, and the overall potential for long term growth. Its audience includes potentially tens of thousands of Individual and Institutional investors, as well as investment advisors and analysts.

    All sessions will be conducted through video webcasts and will take place in the Eastern time zone.

    About XBP Europe
    XBP Europe is a pan-European integrator of bills, payments and related solutions and services seeking to enable digital transformation of its more than 2,000 clients. The Company’s name – ‘XBP’ stands for ‘exchange for bills and payments’ and reflects the Company’s strategy to connect buyers and suppliers, across industries, including banking, healthcare, insurance, utilities and the public sector, to optimize clients’ bills and payments and related digitization processes. The Company provides business process management solutions with proprietary software suites and deep domain expertise, serving as a technology and services partner for its clients. Its cloud-based structure enables it to deploy its solutions across the European market, along with the Middle East and Africa. The physical footprint of XBP Europe spans 15 countries and approximately 30 locations and a team of approximately 1,500 individuals. XBP Europe believes its business ultimately advances digital transformation, improves market wide liquidity by expediting payments, and encourages sustainable business practices. For more information, please visit: www.xbpeurope.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements included in this press release are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “may”, “should”, “would”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “seem”, “seek”, “continue”, “future”, “will”, “expect”, “outlook” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding future events, estimated or anticipated future results and benefits, future opportunities for XBP Europe Holdings, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) and its industry, and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements reflect the current expectations of Company management and are not guarantees of actual performance. Actual results may differ materially due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including without limitation: (1) legal proceedings against the Company or others; (2) the Company’s inability to meet the continued listing standards of Nasdaq or another securities exchange; (3) disruptions from the proposed acquisition of Exela Technologies BPA, LLC (“BPA”) and related bankruptcy proceedings of BPA and certain of its subsidiaries’; (4) failure to realize benefits from the November 2023 business combination with CF Acquisition Corp. VIII; (5) acquisition-related costs; (6) changes in laws or regulations; (7) adverse effects from economic, business, or competitive factors; (8) market volatility due to geopolitical and economic factors; (9) challenges in achieving profitability, retaining clients, managing growth, or recruiting and retaining personnel; and (10) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 19, 2025, as amended, and subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). In addition, forward-looking statements represent the Company’s expectations, plans or forecasts as of the date of this communication. Subsequent events may alter these assessments, and they should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this release.

    For more XBP Europe news, commentary, and industry perspectives, visit: https://www.xbpeurope.com/
    And please follow us on social:
    X: https://X.com/XBPEurope
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XBPEurope/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xbp_europe/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xbp-europe/

    The information posted on XBP Europe’s website and/or via its social media accounts may be deemed material to investors. Accordingly, investors, media and others interested in XBP Europe should monitor XBP Europe’s website and its social media accounts in addition to XBP Europe’s press releases, SEC filings and public conference calls and webcasts.

    Source: XBP Europe Holdings, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Power Your Summer Plans with Hot Savings on Samsung Tech

    Source: Samsung

    Summer is heating up at Samsung – and so are the savings.
    The Discover Samsung Summer Sale is coming soon from June 2-8 with big savings on smart home essentials and mobile must-haves to power your summer. Mark your calendar for weeklong offers, curated bundles and new daily deals beginning at 9am ET each day. To get a head start on the savings, download the Samsung Shop App to unlock Early Access to exclusive offers beginning Friday, May 30 at 9am ET.
    Whether you’re planning the ultimate beach weekend, backyard staycation, or backpacking trip, Samsung AI features are here to help you make the most of your summer plans. Explore some of our favorite features for summer and take a peek at current and upcoming offers below.
    For summer travels, let Galaxy AI[1] take the lead on planning. Looking for flights? Hold the side button of your Galaxy S25 and ask Gemini[2] to find deals in real time before saving the results to your Samsung Notes app to easily reference later. Try out local cuisine with ease by pressing the side button of your Galaxy S25 and asking Galaxy AI to translate the menu before providing recommended meal options. And if you want the perfect photo to post, use Galaxy AI’s Generative Edit[3] feature to remove any unwanted background objects.

    Weeklong Deal: Save up to $300 on Galaxy S25 Ultra (promo price: starting at $1299.99)
    Weeklong Deal: Save $60 or up to $150 with eligible trade-in,[4] plus get a case on us with Galaxy Buds3 Pro (promo price: starting at $99.99)

    For backyard dinner parties, your connected kitchen is the ultimate sous chef. Use the AI Home screen[5] on select products in our 2025 Bespoke AI lineup to act as your personal assistant and convenient control center for your smart home. Plan your meals and create grocery lists or view your calendar and leave notes for your family, all from the screen. And once you finish dinner, tackle your sink full of dirty dishes with our latest Bespoke smart dishwasher, the quietest in its class.[6]

    Save up to $1,500 on Bespoke 4-Door French Door with AI Home & AI Vision Inside [7] (promo price: starting at $3,199)
    Save up to $400 on the 38 dBA Bespoke Smart Dishwasher with 3rd Rack Washing System (promo price: starting at $999)

    For movie marathons and more, experience the next big thing in television with Samsung Vision AI[8] on our 2025 TVs. The 2025 Samsung TV lineup offers breathtaking picture and immersive sound, paired with AI-backed features that take your TV to new heights. Use Click to Search[9] for instant info about your shows or movies, or enjoy content in your preferred language with Live Translate[10]. Universal Gestures even lets you control your TV with just a Galaxy Watch[11]. Plus, Samsung Vision AI helps upscale[12] everything you watch into crystal clear resolution, and even adapts your TV’s audio to your room for crisp dialogue and immersive sound. You can also pair your TV with a 2025 Samsung soundbar to amp up the audio even further.

    Happening NOW: Save up to $400 on S90F and S85F series OLED TVs (promo prices: starting at $1,399)
    Happening NOW: Save up to $500 on Q-series soundbars (promo prices: starting at $449)

    We’re also offering great savings on our 2024 OLED TVs, delivering pure blacks, bright whites and Pantone®-Validated color – all backed by powerful AI processors that optimize picture and sound as you watch. Whichever model you choose, you can shop with confidence from the #1 TV brand for 19 years running[13].

    Happening NOW: Save $1,400 on 65” Class OLED S90D (promo price: $1,299)
    Happening NOW: Save $2,100 on 77” Class OLED S95D (promo price: $2,499)

    Check back here next week for even more offers across our home entertainment lineup!
    For on-the-go smart home control, use the SmartThings app[14] on your mobile device. Seamlessly manage your compatible tech with automated routines, whether you’re turning on the lights for your arrival or cranking up the air conditioner on hot days. And with SmartThings Energy’s AI Energy Mode, you can receive personalized tips to help cut down on your energy usage and costs from your Samsung washer to your refrigerator to your TV and beyond.

    Save up to $1,100 on 3 cu. ft. Bespoke AI Laundry Ventless Heat Pump Dryer Combo All-in-One Ultra Capacity Washer with AI Home (promo price: starting at $2,199)
    Click here to download the SmartThings app

    For more on the Discover Samsung Summer Sale and details on the latest offers, visit Samsung.com.

    [1] Galaxy AI features by Samsung are free through 2025 and require Samsung account login.
    [2] Compatible with select apps. Requires Google Gemini account. Results may vary based on input; check responses for accuracy. Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC.
    [3] Generative Edit requires a Samsung account login. Editing with Generative Edit results in a resized photo up to 12MP. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by Galaxy AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    [4] For Samsung Trade-In terms and conditions, click here.
    [5] AI Home LCD Display on RF90F29/23BECRAA Refrigerators accesses AI Vision Inside , Bixby and personalized recipe recommendations based on AI algorithms. Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account required.
    [6] Together with DW90 models, compared to competitor models with MSRP $1399 or less.
    [7] AI Vision Inside can recognize and automatically label 37 unobscured fresh food items such as select fruits and vegetables; other items may be manually labeled. Results vary by manner of placement.
    [8] Samsung Vision Al is only available on 2025 Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED, OLED, QLED and The Frame TV models. Samsung Vision Al features vary by TV model. (Excludes Crystal UHD, FHD and HD TV models).
    [9] Available on certain models only, and on terrestrial, cable TV and Samsung TV Plus.
    [10] Works with antenna broadcast only. Available languages vary and may require download. Translation accuracy not guaranteed.
    [11] Available apps and services may vary and are subject to change without notice. Only supported on Galaxy Watch4 and later models, and Wear OS 5 and higher versions. Galaxy Watch sold separately.
    [12] Viewing experience may vary according to types of content and format. Upscaling may not apply to PC connection and Game Mode.
    [13] Source: Omdia, Feb 2025. Results are not an endorsement of Samsung. Any reliance on these results is at the third party’s own risk.
    [14] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Avoid disruptions – Alectra customers encouraged to go paperless amid postal uncertainty

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With a potential Canada Post strike approaching on May 22, Alectra Utilities is encouraging customers to switch to paperless billing for uninterrupted, secure access to their account information.

    “Switching to paperless billing means never worrying about a missing bill or delayed payment,” said Kerry Lakatos-Hayward, Director, Customer Operations, Alectra Utilities. “It’s a fast, secure way to keep your account up to date and avoid late fees, all while reducing paper waste.”

    To further prepare for postal delays, customers are advised to use one of the following payment methods:

    • Online or telephone banking
    • In person at a financial institution
    • Pre-authorized payments
    • Credit card

    With the postal disruption, customers who receive their monthly bills by mail remain responsible for paying their bills on time to avoid late fees. Customers can view their balance and due date by:

    • Visiting My Alectra to view account balances, download bills and register for paperless billing.
    • Calling our Contact Centre line at 1-833-253-2872, then selecting option ‘2’, then “1”. Please have your account number available. You’ll get details about your last payment made and next payment due.
    • Signing up for Text Alerts. Go to My Alectra ‘preferences’ to start receiving your monthly balance and due date at your preferred mobile number.

    For more information and to register for e-billing, visit alectrautilities.com.

    About Alectra Utilities

    Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.

    X: https://x.com/alectranews
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alectranews/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alectranews/?hl=en
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/16178435/admin/
    Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alectranews.bsky.social
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alectranews

    Media Contact

    Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson | Email: ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com | Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9106159f-873d-4513-9632-3794e7737dd2

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Proto Hologram Inventor named to TIME100 Health List

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, New York, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TIME has named David Nussbaum, Founder and Chairman of Proto Inc., to its 2025 TIME100 Health list in the “Innovators” category, recognizing his pioneering work creating hologram and AI technology to expand access to healthcare. The annual list honors the 100 most influential figures shaping global health.

    Featured in the May 26 print edition, TIME praised Proto Hologram for its impact on rural healthcare access by “beaming” doctors into clinics, its real-time AI translation tools, HIPAA-compliant systems, and newly reduced cost—making the technology more accessible than ever. Read the story here.

    Nussbaum shares the honor with leaders such as Alice Walton, Bill Nye, and WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

    “Nothing is more important than connecting with your doctor in person to create that emotional, physical connection—especially when you’re talking about something as important as cancer or Parkinson’s or life-altering news,” Nussbaum told TIME.

    Dr. Sylvia Richie of West Cancer Center beams live across the country to talk with Proto Founder David Nussbaum. West Cancer and Proto launched the first real doctor-patient hologram appointments in 2024. 

    The first company to install Proto technology to beam doctors to patients for real appointments was West Cancer Center in Tennessee. Since then many major clinics have launched pilot programs to bring the solution to the shortage of caregivers to more underserved populations. Proto is also in use in higher education medical and healthcare programs including the University of Central Florida CHPS program, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, the University of Minnesota’s Hormal Institute and the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. 

    “This honor of being on the Time100 Health list really belongs to the entire Proto team,” said Nussbaum.”Their belief, talent, hustle and heart have built this company and this incredible technology. A spotlight on any of us is a reflection on all of us. I’m so grateful that I get to work with this team every single day. This is also a tribute to the companies and organizations that have been brave and imaginative enough to take the leap – the doctors and nurses and patients and executives who are putting Proto’s hologram communication and AI tools in action to help people everywhere.” 

    West Cancer Center’s Dr. Sylvia Richie demonstrates live hologram medical appointments by beaming from Tennessee to Los Angeles to be present in a Proto Luma. 

    Proto is the original, patented hologram communications and AI spatial compute platform in use around the world by dozens of Fortune 500 companies, 50 universities, and stadiums, airports, hospitals and malls everywhere. In addition to healthcare, Proto is active in education, finance, retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment. Proto has been recognized previously as the inventor of the technology by the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, the Today Show, CNN and the BBC.

    The full 2025 TIME100 Health list appears in the May 26, 2025 print issue of TIME and at time.com/time100health.

    See Proto in action on Instagram.

    Media inquiries: owen@protohologram.com

    About Proto Inc.: Proto Inc. is the patented leader in hologram technology and AI spatial computing. Proto devices and its platform are in use across enterprise, finance, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment. Invented in Los Angeles and with showrooms and distribution partners around the globe, Proto distributes the large Proto Epic and Proto Luma, the desktop-sized Proto M2, and a suite of hologram AI and spatial computing services. Learn more at protohologram.com

    Attachment

    • David Nussbaum, Founder and Chairman of Proto Inc.

    The MIL Network –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Soloma Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary at the Moskino cinema park

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The multi-genre festival “Soloma” will be held in the capital for the 10th time on June 7 and 8. This time it will be held on the central square of the Moskino cinema park. The event can be attended with entrance tickets to the cinema park. Musicians will perform from 14:00 to 22:00 every day of the festival.

    On June 7, the program will be opened by students of the Moscow State Conservatory named after P.I. Tchaikovsky. They will perform songs and compositions from famous Soviet and world films. In addition, guests will see performances by performers Sasha de Buryak, Flora and Minaeva, musician Anton Lavrentyev, the group Ubel and participants of the multi-genre musical project “Tima is looking for light”.

    On the second day of the festival, guests will meet the performer Alena Samartseva, the groups Dreams Shadow, Shoo and “Elli na makovom pole”, as well as the participants of the musical project “Shaly”. At the end, the singer and songwriter Tosya Chaikina will perform.

    In addition, on June 7 and 8, guests of the Moskino cinema park will be treated to lessons from professional makeup artists, an inflatable trampoline for children, as well as ping-pong and mini-golf games. A food court with a variety of takeaway snacks will open on the central square.

    The Soloma festival has been opening new names to the general public for 10 years and giving young musicians the opportunity to present their work to a wider audience. In different years, such up-and-coming artists as Untone Chernov, Zavazalsky, Sasha Garahanov, as well as the groups Obe Dve, Neeeet, Ty Chko, Komnata Kultury and many others have performed at the venues.

    The festival is held with the support of the capital Department of Culture within the framework of the program “Summer in Moscow”. The event contributes to the implementation of the goals and objectives of the national project “Family” in Moscow.

    The play “Victory! The Banner over the Reichstag!” was seen by about seven thousand spectatorsSobyanin: Moskino Cinema Park has become one of the most popular filming locations

    The Moskino Cinema Park is part of the Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin’s project “Moscow – City of Cinema” and an object of the Moscow cinema cluster, which is being developed by the capital Department of Culture. The first stage of creation has already been completed here: 24 natural sites, four pavilions and six infrastructure facilities have been built. Among them are the sets “Center of Moscow”, “Moscow of the 1940s”, “Vitebsk Station”, “Yurovo Airport”, “Cathedral Square of Moscow”, “Deaf Village”, “County Town”, “Cowboy Town”, “St. Petersburg Bar” and other sites.

    The Moscow Film Cluster is an infrastructure facility, services and facilities for filmmakers, which are being developed by the Moscow Government within the framework of the Moscow — City of Cinema project. Its structure includes the Moskino film park, the Gorky Film Studio (sites on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdaisky Proyezd), the Moskino film factory, the Moskino cinema chain, the film commission and the Moskino film platform.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154142073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China-Kazakhstan friendly chess match held in Tacheng

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    URUMQI, May 21 (Xinhua) — A friendly chess match between China and Kazakhstan was held recently in Tacheng City, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on the China-Kazakhstan border.

    The event was organized by the Tacheng County Department of Culture, Sports, Radio, Television and Tourism and was attended by amateur chess players from Kazakhstan and players from different ethnic groups in Tacheng.

    The match is an individual rapid chess tournament for adults, played according to the Swiss system using computer programming, consisting of five rounds.

    The current match is not only a recognition of the achievements in the development of chess culture in Tacheng County, but also an important opportunity to popularize intellectual sports. It is not only an exchange in the field of chess, but also a vivid manifestation of friendship between China and Kazakhstan, said the organizer, expressing hope that the tournament will contribute to the growth of the popularity of this sport in Tacheng and promote deep integration of sports and culture between the two sides. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 22, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interest in terminal space sought

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    ​The Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau today invited the market to submit expressions of interest (EOI) for better utilising the space of the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT).

    As one of the strategies in the Action Plan on Development of Cruise Tourism, the bureau aims to elevate the function of the KTCT as a cruise terminal for all.

    Apart from the cruise operation facilities, the KTCT also has an ancillary commercial area of about 5,600 sq m, and public space located on the rooftop and second floor.

    The bureau invites interested vendors and organisations to submit feasible proposals for the use of the ancillary commercial areas and public space, including use for conventional retail or other purposes, with a view to fully utilising the space.

    The bureau stressed that it has been committed to promoting the KTCT for hosting more non-cruise and commercial events during the low season and on days when fewer cruises berthing thereat to better utilise the space at the KTCT.

    What’s more, with the official commissioning of the Kai Tak Sports Park on March 1 this year, the park has become a new hub for hosting major sports and entertainment events.

    The pedestrian walkway connecting the park and the KTCT has recently been opened, and the Home & Youth Affairs Bureau has completed the tender exercise for the Youth Post hostel and spaces for cultural and arts exchanges for youths next to the KTCT.

    The organisation to operate the youth development facility has been selected, and is expected to commence operation within this year.

    With the gradual population intake of the residential development projects at the former runway area of Kai Tak, the transport connectivity of the KTCT will continue to be enhanced in accordance with the plan.

    Seizing the opportunities brought by the developments, the bureau hopes to bring more visitors to the KTCT by the new activities and seek business opportunities through collaboration among the Government, the business sector and the community.

    Interested commercial entities, non-profit-making organisations, organisations related to the cultural, creative and sports industries as well as young entrepreneurs are welcome to submit proposals.

    The bureau added that in considering the suggestions collected, it will focus on how the activities can create greater convenience and a better experience for cruise visitors, create synergies between the Kai Tak Sports Park and the Youth Post hostel, and benefit the residential community of Kai Tak.

    Furthermore, it pointed out that it will determine the future use and management arrangements of the space based on the suggestions.

    The invitation documents for the EOI are available on the Tourism Commission website. Interested parties must submit their EOI by July 18.

    The bureau will also hold a briefing session on the EOI invitation on June 3.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 22, 2025
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