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Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 21, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 21, 2025.

    Australian para sport has issues everywhere – here’s what must be fixed ahead of the Brisbane Paralympics
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katherine Raw, Lecturer, Sport Management, Swinburne University of Technology Bratislav Kostic/Shutterstock Australia’s underwhelming performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics has raised serious questions about how well our adaptive sport system is working. The Paris games returned our lowest medal tally since 1988, from our smallest team since

    What’s the difference between skim milk and light milk?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Margaret Murray, Senior Lecturer, Nutrition, Swinburne University of Technology bodnar.photo/Shutterstock If you’re browsing the supermarket fridge for reduced-fat milk, it’s easy to be confused by the many different types. You can find options labelled skim, skimmed, skinny, no fat, extra light, lite, light, low fat, reduced fat,

    AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathryn Locke, Associate Researcher in Digital Disability, Centre for Culture and Technology, Curtin University Chansom Pantip/Shutterstock Since the recent explosion of widely available generative artificial intelligence (AI), it now seems that a new AI tool emerges every week. With varying success, AI offers solutions for productivity, creativity,

    NZ Budget 2025: science investment must increase as a proportion of GDP for NZ to innovate and compete
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Gaston, Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Shutterstock/Olivier Le Queinec A lack of strategy and research funding – by both the current and previous governments – has been well documented, most comprehensively in the first report

    Starvation of Gaza – a distressing continuation of a decades-old plan
    SPECIAL REPORT: By Jeremy Rose Reading an NBC News report a couple of days ago about a Trump administration plan to relocate 1 million Gazans to Libya reminded me of a conversation between the legendary Warsaw Ghetto leader Marek Edelman and fellow fighter and survivor Simcha Rotem that took place more than quarter of a

    Spotify continues to change music. What’s next – will AI musicians replace music made by humans?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Spotify was started, according to its official claims, because its founders “love music and piracy was killing it”. In Mood Machine, music journalist Liz Pelly argues this is rewriting history. In fact, she

    Feats of the human body behind Tom Cruise’s stunts in Mission: Impossible movies
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol He’s leapt from cliffs, clung to planes mid-takeoff and held his breath underwater for as long as professional freedivers. Now, at 62, Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt for one final mission – and

    After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham After a two-hour phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on May 19, US president Donald Trump took to social media to declare that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire and an end to

    The public service has a much smaller gender pay gap than the private sector. It’s a big achievement
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leonora Risse, Associate Professor in Economics, University of Canberra NDAB Creativity/Shutterstock After two years of publishing the gender pay gaps of Australia’s private-sector companies, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency has released public-sector employer data for the first time. The report shows a stark contrast between the private

    For making stars, it’s not just how much gas a galaxy has that matters – it’s where it’s hiding
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbara Catinella, Professor and Senior Principal Research Fellow, International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), The University of Western Australia One of the galaxies mapped by WALLABY: the red shade shows the atomic hydrogen gas content of the galaxy, overlaid on an optical image showing the stars.

    The Queensland melioidosis outbreak is still growing. What’s keeping this deadly mud bug active?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Jeffries, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, Western Sydney University ap-studio/Shutterstock The outbreak of the deadly “mud bug” melioidosis in north Queensland has not yet abated since it began at the start of this year. So far there have been 221 cases and 31 deaths from the disease

    ‘Outdated and irrelevant’: what do young Australians think of their schooling?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jun Eric Fu, Senior Research Fellow, Youth Research Collective, The University of Melbourne LBeddoe/Shutterstock Australia’s school system – and whether it is doing its job – is often under the microscope from politicians, experts and parents. The most recent NAPLAN results in 2024 triggered a wave of

    Culture at the core: examining journalism values in the Pacific
    ANALYSIS: By Birte Leonhardt, Folker Hanusch and Shailendra B. Singh The role of journalism in society is shaped not only by professional norms but also by deeply held cultural values. This is particularly evident in the Pacific Islands region, where journalists operate in media environments that are often small, tight-knit and embedded within traditional communities.

    The band is breaking up: has the Coalition stopped making sense?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University I remember seeing footage, several years ago, of a jubilant Malcolm Turnbull, then prime minister and Liberal leader, speaking in Tamworth to loyal members of the National Party. These were the rank and file who had spent weeks

    Health chief ‘conductor of an orchestra who’s never played an instrument’
    ANALYSIS: By Ian Powell In February 2025, Dr Diana Sarfati resigned, not unexpectedly, as Director-General of Health after only two years into her five-year term. As a medical specialist, and in her role as developing the successful cancer control agency, she had extensive experience in New Zealand’s health system. However, she did not conform to

    Victorian budget has cash to splash on health, transport but new levies, job cuts, rising debt signal pain ahead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University There was not a lot of cheer in the media reporting ahead of the 2025/6 Victorian budget released on Wednesday. Debt and deficits dominated the coverage. All eyes turned to new treasurer, Jaclyn Symes, to see if in

    RBA cuts interest rates, ready to respond again if the economy weakens further
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock speaks at a forum during the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington in April. Jose Luis Magana/AP The Reserve Bank of Australia cut the official interest rate for the

    The Coalition is on a break, but the Nationals risk finding their former partner doesn’t want them back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Botterill, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University In the weeks since the federal election, there’s been much speculation about the future of the Coalition agreement. In their soul-searching, it seemed possible the Liberals might pull the pin, given the degree of their

    Israel slammed over ‘cynical’ sidestep of global rulings on Gazan humanitarian aid
    Asia Pacific Report Israel has been accused of “manipulation” and “cynical” circumvention of global decisions calling for unrestricted humanitarian aid access to the besieged Gaza enclave. “In a clear act of defiance against international humanitarian obligations, the occupying state has permitted only nine aid trucks to enter the Gaza Strip — covering both the devastated

    Keith Rankin Analysis – The Aratere and the New Zealand Main Trunk Line
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Government-owned Kiwirail is supposed to be presiding over the New Zealand Main Trunk (Railway) Line, from Auckland to Invercargill. As such it runs a ferry service (The Interislander) between New Zealand’s North and South Islands. We are being told by Kiwirail (and see today’s report on Radio NZ) that the only

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Kathryn Locke, Associate Researcher in Digital Disability, Centre for Culture and Technology, Curtin University

    Chansom Pantip/Shutterstock

    Since the recent explosion of widely available generative artificial intelligence (AI), it now seems that a new AI tool emerges every week.

    With varying success, AI offers solutions for productivity, creativity, research, and also accessibility: making products, services and other content more usable for people with disability.

    The award-winning 2024 Super Bowl ad for Google Pixel 8 is a poignant example of how the latest AI tech can intersect with disability.

    Directed by blind director Adam Morse, it showcases an AI-powered feature that uses audio cues, haptic feedback (where vibrating sensations communicate information to the user) and animations to assist blind and low-vision users in capturing photos and videos.

    Javier in Frame showcases an accessibility feature found on Pixel 8 phones.

    The ad was applauded for being disability inclusive and representative. It also demonstrated a growing capacity for – and interest in – AI to generate more accessible technology.

    AI is also poised to challenge how audio description is created and what it may sound like. This is the focus of our research team.

    Audio description is a track of narration that describes important visual elements of visual media, including television shows, movies and live performances. Synthetic voices and quick, automated visual descriptions might result in more audio description on our screens. But will users lose out in other ways?

    AI as people’s eyes

    AI-powered accessibility tools are proliferating. Among them is Microsoft’s Seeing AI, an app that turns your smartphone into a talking camera by reading text and identifying objects. The app Be My AI uses virtual assistants to describe photos taken by blind users; it’s an AI version of the original app Be My Eyes, where the same task was done by human volunteers.

    There are increasingly more AI software options for text-to-speech and document reading, as well as for producing audio description.

    Audio description is an essential feature to make visual media accessible to blind or vision impaired audiences. But its benefits go beyond that.

    Increasingly, research shows audio description benefits other disability groups and mainstream audiences without disability. Audio description can also be a creative way to further develop or enhance a visual text.

    Traditionally, audio description has been created using human voices, script writers and production teams. However, in the last year several international streaming services including Netflix and Amazon Prime have begun offering audio description that’s at least partially generated with AI.

    Yet there are a number of issues with the current AI technologies, including their ability to generate false information. These tools need to be critically appraised and improved.

    Is AI coming for audio description jobs?

    There are multiple ways in which AI might impact the creation – and end result – of audio description.

    With AI tools, streaming services can get synthetic voices to “read” an audio description script. There’s potential for various levels of automation, while giving users the chance to customise audio description to suit their specific needs and preferences. Want your cooking show to be narrated in a British accent? With AI, you could change that with the press of a button.

    However, in the audio description industry many are worried AI could undermine the quality, creativity and professionalism humans bring to the equation.

    The language-learning app Duolingo, for example, recently announced it was moving forward with “AI first” development. As a result, many contractors lost jobs that can now purportedly be done by algorithms.

    On the one hand, AI could help broaden the range of audio descriptions available for a range of media and live experiences.

    But AI audio description may also cost jobs rather than create them. The worst outcome would be a huge amount of lower-quality audio description, which would undermine the value of creating it at all.

    AI shouldn’t undermine the quality of assistive technologies, including audio description.
    Ground Picture/Shutterstock

    Can we trust AI to describe things well?

    Industry impact and the technical details of how AI can be used in audio description are one thing.

    What’s currently lacking is research that centres the perspectives of users and takes into consideration their experiences and needs for future audio description.

    Accuracy – and trust in this accuracy – is vitally important for blind and low-vision audiences.

    Cheap and often free, AI tools are now widely used to summarise, transcribe and translate. But it’s a well-known problem that generative AI struggles to stay factual. Known as “hallucinations”, these plausible fabrications proliferate even when the AI tools are not asked to create anything new – like doing a simple audio transcription.

    If AI tools simply fabricate content rather than make existing material accessible, it would even further distance and disadvantage blind and low-vision consumers.

    We can use AI for accessibility – with care

    AI is a relatively new technology, and for it to be a true benefit in terms of accessibility, its accuracy and reliability need to be absolute. Blind and low-vision users need to be able to turn on AI tools with confidence.

    In the current “AI rush” to make audio description cheaper, quicker and more available, it’s vital that the people who need it the most are closely involved in how the tech is deployed.

    Kathryn Locke is employed as a researcher on the Australian Research Council’s discovery grant, “Diversifying audio description in the Australian digital landscape”.

    Tama Leaver receives funding from the Australian Research Council. This work is supported by the discovery grant, “Diversifying audio description in the Australian digital landscape”. He is a chief investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    – ref. AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision – https://theconversation.com/ai-is-now-used-for-audio-description-but-it-should-be-accurate-and-actually-useful-for-people-with-low-vision-256808

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference to kick off June 9

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

    Apple on Tuesday announced the lineup for its upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC25), including the Keynote and Platforms State of the Union sessions.

    Set to take place online from June 9 to 13, the free conference will bring together the global Apple developer community to explore the latest tools, technologies, and features across Apple’s platforms, the company said.

    Throughout the week, developers worldwide will have the opportunity to connect with Apple engineers, designers, and evangelists, and stream more than 100 sessions focused on helping them build innovative, platform-differentiated apps and games for Apple’s ecosystem. On June 9, Apple will also host a special in-person event at Apple Park, welcoming over 1,000 developers and students.

    The Keynote address will be available to stream on apple.com, the Apple TV app, and the Apple YouTube channel. Following the Keynote, the Platforms State of the Union will offer a deeper dive into the new technologies and tools available to developers — spanning iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS, Apple said.

    Members of the Apple Developer Program and Apple Developer Enterprise Program will also be able to engage directly with Apple experts through online group labs and one-on-one appointments. These interactions will cover a broad range of topics, including Apple Intelligence, app design, developer tools, graphics and gaming, machine learning, Swift, and more.

    In addition, 50 winners of this year’s Swift Student Challenge — one of Apple’s programs designed to inspire and support the next generation of entrepreneurs, developers, and designers — will be recognized for their outstanding submissions and invited to a special three-day experience at Apple Park, the company announced. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathryn Locke, Associate Researcher in Digital Disability, Centre for Culture and Technology, Curtin University

    Chansom Pantip/Shutterstock

    Since the recent explosion of widely available generative artificial intelligence (AI), it now seems that a new AI tool emerges every week.

    With varying success, AI offers solutions for productivity, creativity, research, and also accessibility: making products, services and other content more usable for people with disability.

    The award-winning 2024 Super Bowl ad for Google Pixel 8 is a poignant example of how the latest AI tech can intersect with disability.

    Directed by blind director Adam Morse, it showcases an AI-powered feature that uses audio cues, haptic feedback (where vibrating sensations communicate information to the user) and animations to assist blind and low-vision users in capturing photos and videos.

    Javier in Frame showcases an accessibility feature found on Pixel 8 phones.

    The ad was applauded for being disability inclusive and representative. It also demonstrated a growing capacity for – and interest in – AI to generate more accessible technology.

    AI is also poised to challenge how audio description is created and what it may sound like. This is the focus of our research team.

    Audio description is a track of narration that describes important visual elements of visual media, including television shows, movies and live performances. Synthetic voices and quick, automated visual descriptions might result in more audio description on our screens. But will users lose out in other ways?

    AI as people’s eyes

    AI-powered accessibility tools are proliferating. Among them is Microsoft’s Seeing AI, an app that turns your smartphone into a talking camera by reading text and identifying objects. The app Be My AI uses virtual assistants to describe photos taken by blind users; it’s an AI version of the original app Be My Eyes, where the same task was done by human volunteers.

    There are increasingly more AI software options for text-to-speech and document reading, as well as for producing audio description.

    Audio description is an essential feature to make visual media accessible to blind or vision impaired audiences. But its benefits go beyond that.

    Increasingly, research shows audio description benefits other disability groups and mainstream audiences without disability. Audio description can also be a creative way to further develop or enhance a visual text.

    Traditionally, audio description has been created using human voices, script writers and production teams. However, in the last year several international streaming services including Netflix and Amazon Prime have begun offering audio description that’s at least partially generated with AI.

    Yet there are a number of issues with the current AI technologies, including their ability to generate false information. These tools need to be critically appraised and improved.

    Is AI coming for audio description jobs?

    There are multiple ways in which AI might impact the creation – and end result – of audio description.

    With AI tools, streaming services can get synthetic voices to “read” an audio description script. There’s potential for various levels of automation, while giving users the chance to customise audio description to suit their specific needs and preferences. Want your cooking show to be narrated in a British accent? With AI, you could change that with the press of a button.

    However, in the audio description industry many are worried AI could undermine the quality, creativity and professionalism humans bring to the equation.

    The language-learning app Duolingo, for example, recently announced it was moving forward with “AI first” development. As a result, many contractors lost jobs that can now purportedly be done by algorithms.

    On the one hand, AI could help broaden the range of audio descriptions available for a range of media and live experiences.

    But AI audio description may also cost jobs rather than create them. The worst outcome would be a huge amount of lower-quality audio description, which would undermine the value of creating it at all.

    AI shouldn’t undermine the quality of assistive technologies, including audio description.
    Ground Picture/Shutterstock

    Can we trust AI to describe things well?

    Industry impact and the technical details of how AI can be used in audio description are one thing.

    What’s currently lacking is research that centres the perspectives of users and takes into consideration their experiences and needs for future audio description.

    Accuracy – and trust in this accuracy – is vitally important for blind and low-vision audiences.

    Cheap and often free, AI tools are now widely used to summarise, transcribe and translate. But it’s a well-known problem that generative AI struggles to stay factual. Known as “hallucinations”, these plausible fabrications proliferate even when the AI tools are not asked to create anything new – like doing a simple audio transcription.

    If AI tools simply fabricate content rather than make existing material accessible, it would even further distance and disadvantage blind and low-vision consumers.

    We can use AI for accessibility – with care

    AI is a relatively new technology, and for it to be a true benefit in terms of accessibility, its accuracy and reliability need to be absolute. Blind and low-vision users need to be able to turn on AI tools with confidence.

    In the current “AI rush” to make audio description cheaper, quicker and more available, it’s vital that the people who need it the most are closely involved in how the tech is deployed.

    Kathryn Locke is employed as a researcher on the Australian Research Council’s discovery grant, “Diversifying audio description in the Australian digital landscape”.

    Tama Leaver receives funding from the Australian Research Council. This work is supported by the discovery grant, “Diversifying audio description in the Australian digital landscape”. He is a chief investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    – ref. AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision – https://theconversation.com/ai-is-now-used-for-audio-description-but-it-should-be-accurate-and-actually-useful-for-people-with-low-vision-256808

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Bedshed pays penalties for allegedly misleading customers over NDIS endorsement

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Bedding retailer Bedshed Franchising Pty Ltd has paid $39,600 in penalties after the ACCC issued it with two infringement notices for allegedly making false or misleading representations to consumers through advertising that suggested certain products it sold had been evaluated or approved by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

    This action comes after the ACCC put businesses on notice of its focus on problematic advertising practices targeting NDIS participants in November 2024.

    The ACCC alleges that Bedshed advertised on its website and Google Ads that some of its mattresses, furniture and bedding accessories were ‘NDIS approved’ and ‘NDIS permitted’.

    “The NDIS does not approve any specific goods or services and to suggest otherwise is misleading and risks taking advantage of vulnerable consumers,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “Each NDIS participant has unique needs, and what’s funded under their plan is determined individually, not through a list of approved products. Targeting consumers experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage with misleading advertising is particularly concerning, and we are continuing to investigate companies making similar claims.”

    “These infringement notices should serve as a warning to all businesses that advertise their products or services to NDIS participants – your advertising must reflect the facts,” Ms Cass Gottlieb said.

    In December 2023, the Australian Government established the NDIS (Fair Price and Australian Consumer Law) Taskforce, which comprises of the ACCC, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). The taskforce was established to address concerns that NDIS participants were being charged more for goods and services than other consumers, and to address potential breaches of Australian Consumer Law.

    If an NDIS participant thinks a business has made false or misleading statements about products or services, including whether they are endorsed or approved by the NDIS, or if they consider their consumer rights have not been met, they can make a report to the ACCC.

    Further information for NDIS participants is available on the ACCC website.

    Note to editors

    The ACCC can issue an infringement notice when it has reasonable grounds to believe a person or business has contravened certain consumer protection provisions in the Australian Consumer Law.

    The payment of a penalty specified in an infringement notice is not an admission of a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law. The Australian Consumer Law sets the penalty amount.

    What false or misleading advertising about the NDIS might look like

    Examples of concerning advertising that may be false, or misleading include:

    • The use of the words ‘NDIS approved’ as the NDIS does not have the function of approving or endorsing particular goods or services.
    • Advertising suggesting NDIS funds will cover “all inclusive” holidays, when general costs associated with holidays would not be covered by NDIS funding.
    • Meal delivery services suggesting the cost of meals is covered by the NDIS, when the NDIS does not cover food expenses.
    • Advertising that provides instructions on how to use NDIS funding codes to cover costs of recreational services that are not covered by the NDIS – for example, going to the movies or a theme park.
    • Advertising that suggests a business is affiliated or endorsed by the NDIS, by using NDIS in its business name or in the description of its services, for example ‘NDIS therapies’.

    Background

    Bedshed is a franchise that supplies mattresses, bedding, furniture and related accessories to consumers. The business operates at a retail level with an online store and 43 brick-and-mortar stores in locations across WA, Victoria, Queensland, ACT and NSW. Of the 43 brick-and-mortar stores, 11 are registered NDIS providers.

    In December 2024, the ACCC instituted proceedings against registered NDIS provider Ausnew Home Care Service Pty Ltd, for alleged false and misleading representations, including statements that certain products were ‘NDIS approved’, relating to aged care and disability products. The matter remains before the Court.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Art Store Brings Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and More to Screens in 4K

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced the addition of new pieces from Disney’s iconic portfolio to the Samsung Art Store,1 offering TV users worldwide a stunning new way to enjoy beloved visuals from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and National Geographic — all in crystal-clear 4K resolution.
     
    “We’re thrilled to expand our collaboration with Disney to offer their most beloved artwork to our global community of Art Store users,” said Heeyeong Ahn, Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “By offering a diverse range of artistic content that transcends genres and generations, we aim to enrich the everyday lives of our users with art.”
     

     
    The new Disney Collection transforms living rooms into immersive digital galleries, featuring classic and contemporary works that celebrate storytelling, adventure and the beauty of our planet. From the heartwarming tales of Disney princesses from films like “The Little Mermaid,” “Snow White,” and “Tangled” to the legendary “Star Wars saga” and the breathtaking wildlife of “Planet Earth,” the collection also offers fans a chance to discover new favorites — all through the lens of stunning digital art.
     
    Samsung Art Store, a global digital art subscription platform available on Samsung TVs, now offers over 3,500 curated artworks from more than 800 artists and 70 world-class galleries and museums. First launched in 2017 with The Frame, the Art Store experience is now available on 2025 Samsung AI-powered Neo QLED and QLED TVs,2 giving more viewers access to premium art in 4K resolution.
     
    In addition to this latest Disney collaboration, users can easily enjoy masterpieces from world-renowned museums such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Musée d’Orsay, as well as a variety of contemporary and modern artworks showcased at Art Basel, from the comfort of their homes. The service also includes curated selections handpicked by professional art experts on a monthly basis, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
     
    For more information, visit www.samsung.com.
     
     
    1 The Disney Collection is now available in selected countries across Asia, North America (including the United States and Canada), and Europe, where the Samsung Art Store is supported.
    2 For models Q7F and above.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Purpose Investments Inc. Announces May 2025 Distributions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purpose Investments Inc. (“Purpose”) is pleased to announce distributions for the month of May 2025 for its open-end exchange traded funds and closed-end funds (“the Funds”).

    The ex-distribution date for all Open-End Funds is May 28, 2025. The ex-distribution date for all closed-end funds is May 30, 2025.   

    Open-End Funds Ticker
    Symbol    		 Distribution
    per share/unit    		 Record
    Date    		 Payable
    Date    		 Distribution
    Frequency
    Apple (AAPL) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Units APLY $0.1667 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Canadian Financial Income Fund – ETF Series BNC $0.1225¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Berkshire Hathaway (BRK) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Units BRKY $0.1000 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Bitcoin Yield ETF – ETF Units BTCY $0.0850 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Bitcoin Yield ETF – ETF Non-Currency Hedged Units BTCY.B $0.0970 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Bitcoin Yield ETF – ETF USD Units BTCY.U US $0.0815 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Credit Opportunities Fund – ETF Units CROP $0.0875 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Credit Opportunities Fund – ETF USD Units CROP.U US $0.0975 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Ether Yield – ETF Units ETHY $0.0405 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Ether Yield ETF – ETF Non-Currency Hedged Units ETHY.B $0.0500 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Ether Yield ETF – ETF Units Non-Currency Hedged USD Units ETHY.U US $0.0395 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Global Flexible Credit Fund – ETF Units FLX $0.0461 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Global Flexible Credit Fund – Non-Currency Hedged – ETF Units FLX.B $0.0551 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Global Flexible Credit Fund – Non-Currency Hedged USD – ETF Units FLX.U US $0.0385 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Global Bond Class – ETF Units IGB $0.0860¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Microsoft (MSFT) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF units MSFY $0.1100 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Enhanced Premium Yield Fund – ETF Series PAYF $0.1375¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Total Return Bond Fund – ETF Series PBD $0.0590¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Core Dividend Fund – ETF Series PDF $0.1050¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Enhanced Dividend Fund – ETF Series PDIV $0.0950¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Real Estate Income Fund – ETF Series PHR $0.0720¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose International Dividend Fund – ETF Series PID $0.0780 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Monthly Income Fund – ETF Series PIN $0.0830¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Multi-Asset Income Fund – ETF Units PINC $0.0840 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Conservative Income Fund – ETF Series PRP $0.0600¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Premium Yield Fund – ETF Series PYF $0.1100¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Premium Yield Fund Non-Currency Hedged – ETF Series PYF.B $0.1230¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Premium Yield Fund Non-Currency Hedged – ETF USD Series PYF.U US $0.1200¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Core Equity Income Fund – ETF Series RDE $0.0875¹ 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Emerging Markets Dividend Fund – ETF Units REM $0.0950 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Canadian Preferred Share Fund – ETF Units RPS $0.0950 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose US Preferred Share Fund – ETF Series RPU $0.0940 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose US Preferred Share Fund Non-Currency Hedged – ETF Units2 RPU.B / RPU.U $0.0940 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Strategic Yield Fund – ETF Units SYLD $0.0970 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    AMD (AMD) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YAMD $0.2000 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Amazon (AMZN) Yield Shares Purpose ETF- ETF Units YAMZ $0.4000 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Broadcom (AVGO) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YAVG $0.1500 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Coinbase (COIN) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YCON $0.3000 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Costco (COST) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YCST $0.1000 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Alphabet (GOOGL) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Units YGOG $0.2500 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Tech Innovators Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YMAG $0.2000 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    META (META) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YMET $0.1600 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Netflix (NFLX) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YNET $0.1100 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    NVIDIA (NVDA) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Units YNVD $0.7500 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Palantir (PLTR) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YPLT $0.2500 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Tesla (TSLA) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Units YTSL $0.5500 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    UnitedHealth Group (UHN) Yield Shares Purpose ETF – ETF Series YUNH $0.1100 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
               
    Closed-End Funds Ticker
    Symbol    		 Distribution
    per share/unit    		 Record
    Date    		 Payable
    Date    		 Distribution
    Frequency
    Big Banc Split Corp, Class A BNK $0.1200¹ 05/30/2025 06/13/2025 Monthly
    Big Banc Split Corp – Preferred Shares BNK.PR.A $0.0700¹ 05/30/2025 06/13/2025 Monthly


    Estimated May 2025 Distributions for Purpose USD Cash Management Fund, Purpose Cash Management Fund, Purpose High Interest Savings Fund, and Purpose US Cash Fund

    The May 2025 distribution rates for Purpose USD Cash Management Fund, Purpose Cash Management Fund, Purpose High Interest Savings Fund, and Purpose US Cash Fund are estimated to be as follows:

    Open-End Fund Ticker
    Symbol    		 Final distribution
    per unit    		 Record
    Date    		 Payable
    Date    		 Distribution
    Frequency
    Purpose USD Cash Management Fund – ETF Units MNU.U US $ 0.3528 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Cash Management Fund – ETF Units MNY $0.2370 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose High Interest Savings Fund – ETF Units PSA $0.1068 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly
    Purpose US Cash Fund – ETF Units PSU.U US $ 0.3495 05/28/2025 06/03/2025 Monthly

    Purpose expects to issue a press release on or about May 27, 2025, which will provide the final distribution rate for Purpose USD Cash Management Fund, Purpose Cash Management Fund, Purpose High Interest Savings Fund, and Purpose US Cash Fund. The ex-distribution date will be May 28, 2025.

    (1) Dividend is designated as an “eligible” Canadian dividend for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and any similar provincial and territorial legislation.
    (2) Purpose US Preferred Share Fund Non-Currency Hedged – ETF Units have both a CAD and USD purchase option. Distribution per unit is declared in CAD, however, the USD purchase option (RPU.U) distribution will be made in the USD equivalent. Conversion into USD will use the end-of-day foreign exchange rate prevailing on the ex-distribution date.


    About Purpose Investments Inc.

    Purpose Investments is an asset management company with more than $21 billion in assets under management. Purpose Investments has an unrelenting focus on client-centric innovation and offers a range of managed and quantitative investment products. Purpose Investments is led by well-known entrepreneur Som Seif and is a division of Purpose Unlimited, an independent technology-driven financial services company.

    For further information please contact:
    Keera Hart
    Keera.Hart@kaiserpartners.com
    905-580-1257

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus and other disclosure documents before investing. Investment funds are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurance that the full amount of your investment in a fund will be returned to you. If the securities are purchased or sold on a stock exchange, you may pay more or receive less than the current net asset value. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In An Appropriations Subcommittee Hearing, Durbin Presses Secretary Rubio On The U.S.’s Response To The Humanitarian Crisis In Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 20, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today participated in a Subcommittee hearing entitled “A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the U.S. Department of State.” During the hearing, Durbin questioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the humanitarian crisis happening in Gaza and whether the response from the State Department has been adequate. According to UN estimates, 14,000 babies in Gaza could die in the next 48 hours if aid does not reach Gaza.
    “Three countries—France, United Kingdom, and Canada—made a statement, which I would like to summarize. You probably know it already. They said the resumption of aid into Gaza by Israel [is] ‘wholly inadequate.’ The United Kingdom paused free-trade talks with Israel and sanctioned Israeli settlers. And in the joint message by these three countries, allies of the United States, [they said] ‘If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further, concrete action in response.’ Are we on the wrong side of history in watching this unfold and not responding as these three countries have?” Durbin asked.
    Secretary Rubio responded, “We are not prepared to respond the way these countries have.” He also continued to state that there is “an immediate, acute challenge of food and aid not reaching people and existing distribution systems that could get them there. So, we continue to work.” Secretary Rubio also continued to say that there should be a shared goal of defeating Hamas and ensuring the Palestinian people receive the aid they desperately need.
    “I agree with you. I think what you just said should be our policy. But I do not think we should use these people—these Palestinians, particularly these children—as just a casualty of war. This is a designed attack by Israel into Gaza. This is a designed decision by Israel not to provide humanitarian aid, food, medicine, [and] water. We provide quite a bit of money to Israel for its own defense and other purposes. Shouldn’t we be more forthcoming to speak out about this humanitarian crisis?” Durbin asked.
    Durbin concluded, “What are we waiting for? The children are dying.”
    Today, Durbin joined Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) in cosponsoring a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to bring an end to the blockade of food and lifesaving humanitarian aid to address the needs of civilians in Gaza. In the resolution, Senators express grave concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including the imminent starvation of tens of thousands of children.
    Video of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s question in Committee is available here for TV stations.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Questions Witnesses In Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing On Defending Against Drones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 20, 2025
    Today’s hearing highlighted the growing use of drones and how Congress can strike the right balance in response
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “Defending Against Drones: Setting Safeguards for Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Authorities.” Today’s hearing highlighted the growing use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, and how Congress can strike the right balance in response. It also examined the existing statutory authorities that enable the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to track, disable, seize, and even shoot down drones. Finally, the hearing also provided an opportunity to consider how to provide sufficient authorities to law enforcement while also safeguarding the national airspace and important privacy rights and civil liberties—including ensuring that actions to counter drones respect First and Fourth Amendment rights and Fifth Amendment due process.
    Durbin began by asking Professor Laura Donohue, Professor of Law at Georgetown University; Director of Georgetown’s Center on National Security and the Law; and Director of the Center on Privacy and Technology, about the balance of protecting privacy and civil liberties, as well as our security, when it comes to the use of UAS.
    According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there are more than one million drones registered in the United States for commercial and recreational purposes. While most are harmless, UAS can pose serious safety risks when flown near airports, other critical infrastructure, or near mass gatherings like sporting events, parades, or concerts. Drones can also be used by malicious actors including criminals, cartels, terrorist groups, and foreign adversaries.
    “If I were sitting in Wrigley Field… and I saw a drone overhead, I would want to be sure it was a safe and friendly drone. I don’t know that when I’m sitting there. Somebody has to find out or at least ask the question. With over one million drones in our country today… it raises a question of who is going to monitor that activity to make sure these are safe… [and] don’t endanger anyone. At the same time, those drones could be gathering information… and there is a privacy angle there too. Who is protecting the privacy of the people that they are gathering information on?”Durbin said. “How do you balance this?”
    Professor Donohue responded, “As a matter of large scale, outdoor events, most states have regulations and law in place that prohibit the use of drones over large scale events” and noted that many have carveouts that don’t allow others to fly drones over private property without the consent of the property owner themselves. She also noted that the way to balance civil liberties concerns is to make sure there are restrictions.
    Durbin continued by asking Professor Donohue, “Let’s talk about the practical world: you have air traffic controllers monitoring commercial aircraft… but in terms of monitoring actual drone activity to the point of knowing whether it is complying with the state law and if it is not, what to do about it, what’s the answer there? How is it enforced?”
    Professor Donohue responded that both states and the FAA play a role. Currently, DOJ and DHS are also authorized to conduct counter drone operations to protect certain covered facilities and assets related to their missions. However, existing authorities do not sufficiently cover airports, critical infrastructure, or events that federal authorities do not have the capacity or resources to protect. The way to balance these authorities with civil liberties, Professor Donohue noted, is to make sure that there are appropriate restrictions on these authorities.
    Durbin concluded by asking, “Professor Donohue, if counter drone authorities are not drafted carefully, could they permit government authorities to intercept data or communications in violation of the Fourth Amendment?”
    Professor Donohue simply responded, “Yes.”
    Video of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 30 Transformational Projects Announced in the Capital Region

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 30 transformational projects for the Capital Region as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Thirteen projects were announced for Lake George, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; 11 projects were announced for Hoosick Falls, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and six projects were announced for Schuylerville, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, we are empowering local leaders, driving smart growth, and creating vibrant, resilient downtowns where people want to live, work, and visit. This is how we build a stronger New York — one community at a time,” Governor Hochul said. “These 30 transformative projects are a testament to our commitment to strengthening communities across the Capitol Region.”

    Town/Village of Lake George

    The Town and Village of Lake George’s vision focuses on improving the quality of life and sense of place for the Canada Street corridor and adjacent waterfront. The DRI projects will create a more vibrant and prosperous downtown, assist a growing population and enhance the “visitor experience.”

    The 13 Lake George DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Construct the Shepard Park Amphitheater ($1,500,000): Redesign and reconstruct the Shepard’s Park bandstand and amphitheater, restoring its status as a regional music and events destination. The scope includes necessary site-works, landscape accessibility improvements and facility upgrades such as performance space build-out, AV/lighting equipment and a designated basement storage space.
    • Winterize & Enhance The Lagoon and The Village Mall ($1,252,000): Upgrade, modernize and winterize the Village Mall including the Lagoon restaurant, by enclosing both ends and conducting extensive interior and facade renovation works. This would allow for year-round operation of 16 retail/commercial spaces.
    • Develop the Shepard’s Park Lakewalk & Build an Accessible Observation Deck ($2,300,000): Enhance an underutilized portion of the public Shepard’s Park beach through urban and landscape design enhancements, improved stormwater management practices and accessibility improvements. Create an accessible observation atop the public bathroom.
    • Re-inter Historic Remains at the LG Battlefield Park ($519,000): Implement the commemorative project at the Lake George Battlefield State Park, which features columbaria, educational signage, plaza space and memorials related to the over 40 remains discovered on Courtland Street in 2019.
    • Improve Accessibility at Caldwell Library ($433,000): Construct a 350 sq. ft. rear addition to the Caldwell Library, aimed at improving accessibility through the installation of a lift and reconfiguring the interior layout to enhance circulation. Includes ADA-compliant bathroom renovations and the reorganization of spaces to facilitate better navigation.
    • Enhance Music/Entertainment Productions in the DRI Area ($600,000): Acquire specialized music, audio-visual and lighting equipment to enhance year-round entertainment, product capacity and programming within the DRI Area.
    • Accessibility, Efficiency and Aesthetic Upgrades at the Old County Courthouse ($450,000): Rehabilitate the Old County Courthouse through a series of interventions, including: building an accessible ramp near the main entrance, replacing and/or rehabilitating windows and lighting, interior museum casework upgrades and a sculptural bateaux addition on the front lawn.
    • Create a Lake George Art & Canoe Trail ($375,000): Design, siting and installation of 18 uniquely painted canoes and paddles, as well as three murals throughout the DRI area, showcasing and cultivating regional talent while beautifying the area.
    • Renovate & Expand 267 Canada into a Mixed-Use Building for Students & Hospitality Workers ($266,000): Revitalize a deteriorating property into a mixed-use building with an upgraded restaurant and ADA accessible patio space on the ground floor, five fully furnished student or workforce housing units on the 2nd floor and parking lot improvements.
    • Create a Downtown Heritage Wayfinding Project ($350,000): Install dual-sided wayfinding signs throughout the downtown to aid navigation, highlight local points of interest and promote Lake George’s history. The project also includes the design and installation of two new Gateway signs for the Town and Village.
    • Enhance South Canada’s Streetscape through Pedestrian Oriented Design ($780,000): Enhance South Canada’s streetscape by improving pedestrian amenities and increasing safety features, while connecting to the Town Gateway. Upgrades include expanding accessible sidewalks, new benches, intersection improvements, stormwater management and new LED streetlights.
    • Expand the DT Circulator Trolley & Enhance Bus Stops ($275,000): Install up to six new bus shelters with bike racks and reconfigure the downtown Lake George Circulator Trolley to improve service and connectivity for residents, tourists and the workforce.
    • Establish a Small Projects Fund for Winterization & Building Improvements ($600,000): Establish a locally managed matching small project fund to undertake a range of smaller downtown projects such as facade enhancements, building renovation improvements to commercial or mixed-use spaces and winterization efforts.

    Village of Hoosick Falls

    The Village of Hoosick Falls’ vision focuses on creating safe, walkable and accessible corridors that will serve as transformative connectors among past and future public, private and non-profit projects. Connecting these projects will transform Hoosick Falls into a cohesive economic generator to grow the job and population base locally, with positive ripple effects for the Capital Region’s vision and strategies.

    The 11 Hoosick Falls NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Unlock the Full Potential of the HoosArt Center by Making the Wood Block Fully Accessibility ($850,000): Restore the Wood Block Building into a mixed-use building with commercial tenants on the first floor and a community center for creativity on the upper floors ideal for performing arts, public event space, poetry readings and workshops.
    • Revitalize the Commercial and Residential Spaces in the Saluzzo Building ($558,000): Revitalize the mixed-use building on Classic Street, renovating and upgrading the existing eight apartments and three commercial spaces while adding four additional apartments. A commercial kitchen will also be installed as an amenity to the commercial spaces.
    • Upgrade the Town Skating Rink to Expand Recreational Opportunities ($1,000,000): Upgrade the cooling systems and enclose the existing structure of the Town of Hoosick Skating Rink to expand recreation, generate revenue and accommodate regional hockey teams.
    • Develop the STAY ApARTments at 9-15 John Street ($470,000): Redevelop the top floor of the historic building on John Street into four residential units and improve the overall building’s energy efficiency, which already contains a pizza shop, art gallery and four popular short-term rentals.
    • Redevelop the Former Firehouse into a Restaurant ($209,000): Redevelop the old firehouse and adjacent vacant lot into a functional and inviting restaurant space with outdoor patio seating. The second floor will be transformed into an event space accommodating 80-120 people.
    • Rehabilitate 114 Church Street to Return Vacant Residential Units into Service ($300,000): Renovate the building at 114 Church Street to provide seven new apartment units for the Village. This process will include new roofing, framing and full apartment rehabilitation.
    • Enhance the Sand Bar Through Expanded Outdoor Dining and Volleyball Court Facilities ($112,000): Add a third outdoor volleyball court to the Sand Bar, as well as expand outdoor dining for the restaurant by constructing two new decks and replacing some fences and sidewalks.
    • Transform the Abandoned Warehouse at 1 Center Street into a Mixed-Used Building ($438,000): Rehabilitate and transform an abandoned warehouse at 1 Center Street into a mixed-use building with two (out of an eventual 18) residential rental units and three commercial spaces, including a fitness facility, brewery and woodworking shop.
    • Improve and Expand Pedestrian Infrastructure Downtown ($301,000): Improve pedestrian infrastructure in the Village by replacing sidewalks and curb ramps, adding lighting and new signage and partially reconfiguring lower Classic Street with a wider sidewalk and improved stormwater management.
    • Improve the Hoosic River Greenway Trail Connections ($190,000): Improve the Hoosic River Greenway Trail by unifying the disjointed parts, connecting it with other recreational assets, beautifying the area around it and marketing it to attract visitors.
    • Create a Game Store and Community Space at 72 Main Street ($72,000): Renovate the commercial space at 72 Main Street to create a game store and community-gathering space for all ages that can hold various events in collaboration with the senior center, school and youth center.

    Village of Schuylerville

    The Village of Schuylerville’s vision focuses on building upon previous investments and partnerships to increase housing opportunities that will attract more residents; offer new public park and event amenities; create more commercial tourist attractions and overnight lodging; and improve historic signage and wayfinding.

    The 6 Schuylerville NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Build a New Village Community Center ($2,248,000): Build a new community center to house the Schuylerville Youth Program and Olde Saratoga Seniors group, as well as serve as an event space for public and private events. The community center will include public restrooms, office space and a kitchen. The Canal Mosaic Landmark will also be installed in the exterior public space.
    • Reconnect the Old Champlain Canal under Ferry Street ($1,050,000): Build a clear span bridge (or large box culvert) with two lanes of traffic and a pedestrian and bike path over the Champlain Canal on Route 29, allowing water and small watercrafts to travel between the Old Champlain Canal and Turning Basin.
    • Construct a New Mixed-Use Building at the Hotel Schuyler Site ($750,000): Develop a new, three-story, mixed-use building that will provide space for up to three businesses and between 8 and 14 rental housing units. The building would be constructed on a vacant lot along Broad Street, contributing to the commercial corridor’s streetscape.
    • Renovate the Canal Square Building ($179,000): Renovate the existing building to expand commercial capacity, improve the exterior façade and pave the parking lot. Additional work will be done to reduce the impact of flooding.
    • Expand Kickstart Café ($187,000): Expand the interior of Kickstart Café to incorporate additional cooperative use garage space. These additions will require new foundation, exterior walls, relocation of the kitchen and bar area and an outdoor deck area for seating.
    • Enhance Signage and Wayfinding around the Village ($86,000): Improve signage and wayfinding within the Village, specifically for visitors, pedestrians, bicyclists and users of the Empire State Trail. The signage will also present historical information in Fort Hardy Park and promote various businesses within the main business district.

    In the FY2025 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for cities, towns and villages to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward. To date, more than 300 municipalities across the State have become certified. To further support localities that are doing their part to address the housing crisis, Governor Hochul secured $100 million in the FY2026 Enacted Budget to create a Pro-Housing Supply fund to assist certified Pro-Housing Communities with critical infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing, such as sewer and water infrastructure upgrades.

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.” 

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

    CREDC Co-Chairs Ruth Mahoney and Dr. Havidán Rodríguez said, “The 30 regionally informed and strategic DRI and NY Forward projects will make Lake George, Hoosick Falls and Schuylerville even more vibrant for residents and visitors alike. Whether it’s adding housing, increasing recreational opportunities, or creating spaces for more businesses to grow and thrive, the entire Capital Region will benefit from the vision these initiatives are supporting and making a reality, both now and for a sustainable future.”

    Assemblymember Scott Bendett said, “The allocation of $4.5 million for development, and redevelopment in the Village of Hoosick Falls is welcome news for residents who have gone through so much in recent years. This year already brought the good news of a new water supply to the village, and with 11 new, state-funded projects on the horizon, there is even more to look forward to. I appreciate the state taking notice of opportunities in our smaller municipalities, and taking action to see them through.”

    Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, “The Village of Schuylerville is on the rise! I applaud the vision of the Schuylerville Village Mayor and Trustees, and the community members who contributed to this plan to move the Village forward. With thanks to Governor Hochul for her leadership in supporting the re-investment in historic downtowns across the state.”

    Village of Lake George Mayor Ray Perry said, “We at the Village of Lake George and the entire Lake George community are ecstatic to see these projects move forward! We are extremely thankful to the Governor and her team to be able to improve upon the Lake George experience for our residents as well as our visitors! I’m happy to say that there are great things to come!”

    Town of Lake George Supervisor Vincent Crocitto said, “We would like to thank the state for believing in Lake George. This initiative represents a shared vision of revitalization that honors the unique character of Lake George while embracing innovation and economic opportunity, with the support of our town, village, county, local business partners and leadership from the state, we’re ready to make meaningful progress for our community.”

    Village of Hoosick Falls Mayor Dan Schuttig said, “The New York Forward program will provide an incredible, transformative opportunity for the Village of Hoosick Falls. I would like to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for leading the effort to revitalize upstate communities. I would also like to thank the local committee for their hard work putting together such incredible projects that will forever improve the lives of Village residents. This is the first step of many towards the revitalization of our beautiful village here on the Hoosic River!!”

    Village of Schuylerville Mayor Dan Carpenter said, “We are incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to the economic revitalization of small upstate communities like ours. This $4.5 million investment through the NY Forward program will allow Schuylerville to build on our historic charm and community spirit by creating new housing opportunities, enhancing our parks and public spaces, and expanding our commercial and cultural attractions. From the long-awaited Village Community Center to the reconnection of the Old Champlain Canal, these transformative projects will benefit residents and visitors alike. We are excited to get to work and bring these visions to life.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To the teaching staff, students and graduates of the Central Music School – Academy of Performing Arts

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On May 20, 2025, the Central Music School will turn 90 years old.

    Dear friends!

    I am sincerely glad to congratulate you on the 90th anniversary of the Central Music School – Academy of Performing Arts.

    All these years, the legendary educational institution has been teaching not only how to master the art of performance, but also how to feel music. This is the formula for the success of your famous graduates, including Leonid Kogan, Vera Gornostaeva, Gennady Rozhdestvensky, Vladimir Spivakov, Denis Matsuev.

    Today, the Central Music School is one of the best creative universities in the country, where traditions are harmoniously combined with innovation. A special educational space has been created here, and experimental programs are used. A highly professional team of teachers helps students develop abilities, mastery, acquire knowledge, and reveal their individuality. And learn that a successful performance on the big stage is always a huge amount of work, inspiration, and talent.

    I am sure that the Central Music School – Academy of Performing Arts will continue to be a leader, a generator of new ideas. And your graduates will be able to realize their cherished dreams.

    I wish you new successes, inspiration and all the best.

    M. Mishustin

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Construction of the building of the Baltic Higher School of Musical and Theatre Arts as part of the cultural cluster has been completed in Kaliningrad

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The construction of the building of the branch of the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts – the Baltic Higher School of Music and Theatre Arts on Oktyabrsky Island in Kaliningrad has been completed

    May 20, 2025

    Branch of the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts – Baltic Higher School of Musical and Theatre Arts on Oktyabrsky Island in Kaliningrad

    May 20, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    The construction of the building of the branch of the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts – the Baltic Higher School of Music and Theatre Arts on Oktyabrsky Island in Kaliningrad has been completed

    On Oktyabrsky Island in Kaliningrad, as part of a cultural and educational complex, the construction of a building for a branch of the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts – the Baltic Higher School of Musical and Theatre Arts – has been completed. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “On the instructions of the President, large-scale cultural and educational complexes are being built in four cities. Their creation is intended to increase the availability of the best examples of musical, theatrical, and fine arts for millions of people. The regions will have additional opportunities for creative expression, for the development of talents, and, first of all, of course, for young people. In addition, a modern, well-maintained urban environment is being created on the territory of the complexes, accessible to all residents and visitors of the city. Thus, clusters also give impetus to the tourism industry and, in general, have a positive effect on the development of the regions. Today, the construction of a building for the branch of RGISI – the Baltic Higher School of Musical and Theatrical Arts – has been completed in Kaliningrad. A certificate of conformity has already been received for the new facility. Permission to put it into operation is expected,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister added that the Baltic Higher School of Music and Theatre Arts will become the first university in the Kaliningrad Region where students can master the basics of creative professions in 9 areas. The educational institution is designed to train 150 students. The building will also house a school of creative industries for young people – a site for two-year additional education for schoolchildren in grades 5-11. The general contractor for the construction is Stroytransgaz.

    “Throughout the construction process, we closely cooperated with the management of RGISI, which allowed us to take into account all the requirements and wishes. It was not easy, because creative people have their own unique ideas about comfort and functionality. We paid attention to every detail – glossy or matte surfaces, the height of the suspension of technological and stage equipment, acoustics, floors and much more. The STG-Zapad team created in Kaliningrad not just a building, but a modern and stylish space that will become a real home for the creative youth of our country. We are sure that the new residents will like their new home and it will inspire them to new achievements,” said Dmitry Rzhannikov, General Director of STG-Zapad LLC.

    The educational institution is equipped with a modern transformable theater, a coworking area, recreation areas and a media library. The building is the first in Kaliningrad, the facade of which is made entirely of Corten steel and glass. Corten is considered one of the most durable and corrosion-resistant materials, which is important for the climate of Kaliningrad.

    In general, the cultural cluster in Kaliningrad is almost ready. Earlier, a branch of the Tretyakov Gallery, branches of the Moscow State Academy of Choreography and the Central Music School – the Academy of Performing Arts “Baltic” were built and put into operation there. In addition, a comprehensive school with a swimming pool, two boarding schools for students and a dormitory for students, as well as five apartment buildings for teachers and artists of the cultural cluster have already been built. The construction of a branch of the Bolshoi Theater continues.

    In addition to Kaliningrad, cultural and educational complexes are being built in Vladivostok, Kemerovo and Sevastopol.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kingdom of the Netherlands–The Netherlands: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 20, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    An IMF team, led by Mr. Fabian Bornhorst, visited the Netherlands during May 7–20 to conduct the 2025 Article IV consultation. The following statement was issued at the end of the visit:

    The Dutch economy is among the most developed countries globally and has drawn strength from integration in global value chains. In recent years, it has weathered shocks well, yet its resilience is being tested, again—this time by trade tensions and geoeconomic fragmentation. Fiscal buffers are ample, and the financial system is well-positioned to absorb shocks. At the same time, the economy is operating at capacity and inflation is elevated. And increasingly binding constraints—in the labor market, housing, emissions space, and the electricity grid—are limiting the ability to grow and adapt. Futureproofing the economy will therefore require policies that both tackle bottlenecks and expand supply capacity, and align with a long-term vision for sustainable growth. Reforms, complementary to EU initiatives, should aim to increase labor input and firm productivity, expand the availability of SME financing, and effectively manage the green and demographic transitions.

    Outlook

    1. After a weak start, domestic demand is projected to drive growth in 2025 even as trade tensions affect momentum. Real GDP growth is projected to reach 1.1 percent this year. Fundamentals remain strong: unemployment is low, wage growth is robust, and real household purchasing power is solid—supporting private consumption. However, tariffs, trade tensions, and lower trading partner growth are expected to dampen external demand. Combined with uncertainty over future trade policies and less favorable financial conditions, these factors hold back investment and weaken consumer confidence. With a cooling economy, the small positive output gap is expected to close next year; medium-term growth will converge to its estimated potential of 1.2 percent.
    2. Elevated inflation is projected to decline gradually and reach the 2 percent target in late 2026. Inflation is projected at 3 percent in 2025. Wage growth has been robust, although real wages have not reached pre-pandemic levels. Going forward, wage growth is projected to moderate as indicated by recent collective wage agreements and early signs of easing labor market tightness. Fiscal measures, on net, will contribute positively to inflation in 2025 and 2026, as the roll-back of some reduced VAT rates and the increase in excise rates are partly offset by energy subsidies and the freeze on social housing rents. As the trade shock reverberates through the global economy, deflationary forces are expected to arise from lower global growth and energy prices, and appreciation of the euro.

    Risks

    1. Downside risks to growth dominate and arise mainly from trade tensions. Possible direct effects from new/higher U.S. tariffs on currently exempt items (e.g., pharmaceuticals) would lower exports. More generally, rising geoeconomic fragmentation and stronger-than-expected indirect effects from global trade disruptions pose downside risks to growth. The disruption to supply chains could be more severe than expected, leading to upward price pressures even in the context of subdued growth. Policy makers should stay vigilant and nimble. Barring more extreme scenarios, automatic stabilizers in the fiscal framework are sufficient to weather shocks. Domestically, uncertainties in economic policy and the extent to which growth bottlenecks are binding represent risks to the outlook. These can be addressed by implementing consistent, forward-looking, and confidence-building measures.

    Fiscal Policy

    1. Fiscal policy is geared to supporting households in the near term, while aiming to keep the deficit below 3 percent of GDP by 2030. In view of many, and competing, demands, it is welcome that revised plans in the Spring Memorandum adhere to the trend-based fiscal policy (the Dutch Medium-Term Fiscal Framework) and are in line with national fiscal rules. Key measures in 2025 to support household purchasing power include income tax relief, extending reduced fuel excise duties, energy subsidies, and rent support. To meet the deficit target by 2030, spending cuts in public administration, international cooperation, education, and asylum are proposed. The plans, however, are more backloaded than before, and, in many cases, specific measures have yet to be formulated.
    2. Pivoting fiscal policy from stimulating demand to expanding supply would help the economy grow and adapt. Fiscal policy is set to provide an impulse of around 1 percent of GDP in 2025-26. As household real incomes now exceed pre-pandemic levels and the economy is operating at capacity with elevated inflation, broad fiscal support is no longer needed. Scaling back demand support is timely and advisable. While underspending and revenue overperformance could deliver a neutral fiscal stance—as in 2024—proactively identifying and implementing measures would allow for steering the adjustment. To boost the supply capacity of the economy, the government should invest in infrastructure, education, and R&D, foster investment to increase the housing supply and productivity, implement growth-enhancing tax reforms, and tackle bottlenecks from nitrogen and electricity grid congestion. Fostering private and increasing public investment will also contribute to reducing the high external current account surplus.
    3. Better aligning policies with long-term goals would improve the effectiveness of fiscal policy. For example, while freezing social rents provides immediate support to some households, it weakens the financial health of housing associations and limits investment to expand and upgrade the housing stock—key to addressing shortages. Extending the reduction of fuel excises disincentivizes the clean energy transition, countering efforts to reduce implicit fuel subsidies and foster EV adoption through subsidies. Limited inflation adjustment of income tax brackets—including to finance reduced VAT rates—offsets previous income tax relief, disproportionately affects poorer households, and disincentivizes labor supply. Education and R&D spending cuts are at odds with fostering high levels of human capital and innovation. In this context, the announced tax and benefits system reform is welcome, offering an opportunity to simplify and align policies.
    4. Tackling medium-term spending pressures through structural fiscal reforms will increase fiscal room to maneuver. With a low debt-to-GDP ratio of 43.4 percent, the fiscal position is strong. Moreover, deficits and debt are projected to remain structurally below 3 and 60 percent of GDP through 2030. However, projections also indicate that, by 2050, spending on health, ageing, and climate change will increase by about 4 percent of GDP. Ambitions to scale up defense spending beyond 2 percent of GDP adds to these pressures. Addressing cost drivers early would free fiscal room to maneuver, including: (i) reversing the reduction of health deductibles, increasing health care co-payments, and adjusting the basic policy package while supporting solidarity; (ii) linking the retirement age one-to-one to greater life expectancy for tax-funded old-age pensions; and (iii) moving away from fuel subsidies to revenue-generating carbon pricing and taxation.
    5. Implementing the planned tax reforms would support growth. The Building Blocks Tax report rightly recommends streamlining inefficient and ineffective tax expenditures, including abolishing reduced VAT rates. This would lower compliance costs, broaden the tax base, and may open the door to a lower tax rate. Speedy implementation of the proposed capital income taxation reform (‘Box 3’) would align investment incentives by taxing capital income more consistently. and encouraging better resource allocation. Together, the reforms will foster higher investment, productivity, and growth.

    Financial Sector Policies

    1. Risks to financial stability are elevated and have risen, warranting continued close monitoring. Trade policy tensions and uncertainty have increased financial market volatility and weighed on investor confidence in recent months. More volatility in asset prices could trigger periodic margin calls, particularly on pension funds’ derivatives. Elevated inflation still poses non-negligible risks for insurers. While household and corporate indebtedness is declining, it remains well above the euro area average. In real estate, developments in the commercial sector signal reduced risks. However, the residential market shows renewed signs of overheating. Nominal and real house prices, as well as sales, have picked up again, and housing valuations remain among the highest in Europe.
    2. Even so, the financial sector remains resilient to shocks as buffers are ample and commensurate to risks, and the macroprudential policy stance is broadly appropriate. Banking, insurance, and pension fund (PF) fundamentals remain sound. Banks are well capitalized and liquid. Bank profits remain robust and loan delinquencies low, despite a pick-up in corporate bankruptcies, which reflects normalization following phasing out of pandemic support. The countercyclical capital buffer has been maintained at the 2 percent positive neutral rate since May 2024. Other buffers for the largest banks remain in a 0.25‑2 percent CET1-to-risk-weighted-assets ratio range. The insurance sector is profitable and solvent. Funding ratios of occupational PFs have declined as interest rates fell but are rebounding ahead of the system’s transition to defined-contribution schemes and stood comfortably at 120 percent, on average, at end-2025Q1. PFs are resilient to liquidity risks in adverse stress scenarios and can raise cash at short notice if needed from repo or other money markets to meet margin calls on interest derivatives.
    3. Addressing access to homeownership through policies that increase housing supply would allow recalibrating borrower-based macroprudential measures towards minimizing financial risks. Housing market risks continue to be mitigated by structural factors including rising real disposable incomes, the large share of fixed-rate mortgages, and full legal recourse in case of default. The maximum LTV limit was lowered to 100 percent in 2018. Eligibility for, and duration of the mortgage interest deductibility were tightened, and the maximum rate reduced. Mortgage risks are further mitigated by the recent extension of risk-weight floors until November 2026. Efforts to ensure a clear legal basis for supervisory authorities’ regular access to granular transaction and loan-level data for risk monitoring and analysis—to identify pockets of vulnerability as they emerge—should continue. Still, as recommended in the 2024 IMF Financial Stability Assessment Program (FSAP) report, to cool the housing market, maximum LTV limits should be progressively lowered even more, to 90 percent, mortgage interest deductibility gradually removed, and borrowers further incentivized to lower exposures to interest-only mortgages. A significant increase in housing supply is needed to boost housing affordability, facilitate broad access to the property ladder, and to reduce banking and insurance risks from residential mortgage exposures. This will require reconsideration of the roles of housing associations and private investors, revisiting rent controls, revising land-use policies and streamlining building regulations.
    4. The pension reform will strengthen PFs financial sustainability, and offers an opportunity to improve intergenerational fairness, and rebalance portfolios. Most defined-benefit schemes (DBs) have faced financial pressure since 2008. Many have struggled to index benefits in the low-interest-rate environment, and some were forced to cut benefits. Also, DBs asset allocations do not reflect age-related risk preferences. This has raised concerns about intergenerational fairness. Together, these factors weakened confidence in the system. The transition to defined-contribution schemes will alleviate pressures from ageing on PFs sustainability. It will also allow for portfolio allocations that better align with risk preferences of age cohorts, including more investments in equity, while maintaining a high degree of solidarity and collective risk-sharing. Notably, about 80 percent of plans are expected to combine individual investment accounts with collective investments that bundle assets and distribute returns across individual accounts.

    Addressing Growth Bottlenecks

    1. A legally-robust and future-oriented nitrogen strategy is urgently needed. Developers now face permit uncertainty, investors lack confidence, and farmers remain in limbo, as environmental targets slip further out of reach. Recognizing the urgency, the government is developing a strategy that includes shifting from deposition to direct emission measurement and extending the timeline to halve emissions by 5 years. More details on possible measures are paramount. Economic considerations suggest that fees on emitters are the most cost-effective and efficient way to reduce emissions. To avoid tax increases for the average farmer, a system of feebates—where emissions-intensive farming pays fees that fund rebates for lower emission practices—offers a balanced approach. Socially-acceptable solutions and emission reductions have been achieved through a combination of taxation, regulation, subsidies, and science-based guidance.
    2. Plans to relieve electricity grid bottlenecks and ready the grid for the green transition should be accelerated and paired with dynamic pricing. The government’s strategy focuses on expediting high-voltage grid extensions and streamlining permitting. There are plans to guarantee debt issuance by the grid operator of about 4.4 percent of GDP to facilitate grid expansion. However, in the meantime, connection wait-times remain too long. Efforts to manage grid pressures should also include increasing storage capacity and incentivizing energy efficiency of households and industry, while helping the energy-poor adapt. To better manage demand, energy savings could be further incentivized by promoting greater use of dynamic metering and pricing. These are effective in shifting consumption to off-peak periods, help consumers save money, and reduce the need for extra capacity to meet peak demand.

    Strengthening Labor and Firm Productivity

    1. Labor market reforms should continue to focus on enhancing human capital. Given the aging population and labor shortages, it is critical to fully utilize the potential of workers across all generations and smaller firms. Reforms should improve educational outcomes and vocational training to address skill shortages and enhance lifelong learning. Recent progress to address labor market duality, such as reducing false self-employment, are welcome. Introducing mandatory disability insurance and strengthening pension arrangements for the self-employed are important measures to be implemented.. Additionally, better integration of workers with a migratory background would be facilitated by stepped-up language training, job search support, and recognition of qualifications acquired abroad.
    2. Policies to support firm productivity should address several key areas. First, business dynamism should be promoted by reducing entry/exit barriers to enhance firm-level allocative efficiency. Second, productivity-enhancing investment should be increased by improving the investment climate and addressing growth bottlenecks, advancing digitalization, and encouraging R&D. Third, productivity spillovers should be fostered by investments with large spillover effects (e.g., research parks and networks) to build connections among firms, research institutions, and regions. Fourth, efforts are needed to support firms to grow from start-ups to scale-ups and beyond. Plans to equalize tax treatment of stock options for small firms are welcome and should be expanded to include eliminating the reduced profit tax rate for SMEs as well as providing a menu of financing options along a firm’s development stages.  

    Domestic Capital Market Reforms

    1. Capital market reforms would help expand SME financing by improving valuations, stimulating investor demand for both equity and debt instruments, and simplifying debt issuances.  
    • Improving valuations—thereby increasing the amount of capital firms can raise when they issue stocks or bonds—will require increasing the size and liquidity of secondary markets. This should be combined with measures to narrow information gaps, such as easing investor benchmarking, to help reduce investor risk, and with reforming the Bankruptcy Act and securities laws to help investors shorten the settlement cycle for transferable securities and reallocate capital from failed startups more quickly. The authorities should also continue to push forward EU-level reforms, as integration into a larger, EU-wide capital market would also improve liquidity, and hence valuations.
    • Increasing PFs’ and insurers’ investments in domestic venture capital and other equity funds would also increase equity market size and raise valuations. The pension reform offers such an opportunity. Higher pension investment, including from abroad, in domestic equity may also be supported at the EU level by revised legal and supervisory requirements for pan-European private pension products that allow for more venture capital investment.
    • Standardizing and simplifying procedures for smaller-denomination corporate debt securities issuance, lowering the minimum denomination, making pricing more transparent, and leveraging online platforms and other dealer markets would help increase retail investor participation and make more debt capital available to firms.

    Managing the Green Transition

    1. To meet national and European climate goals, stronger policies will be needed, including to reduce uncertainty and build public support.  The current policy settings are projected to fall short of the 2030 goals. Clear and consistent policies are required to provide investment certainty for the private sector. The EU climate agenda—including introduction of CBAM and phasing out of free ETS allowances and expansion of ETS coverage—will facilitate progress. These measures may impact purchasing power. Lower-income households may struggle to adapt even though the burdens of ETS reforms across different income groups are estimated to be uniform relative to consumption. To manage these challenges, implementing compensatory funds and other targeted fiscal tools can help balance policy trade-offs and enhance public support.
    2. Recalibrating transport policies can prevent a decline in fiscal revenues and address congestion, while meeting climate targets and managing electricity demand. By 2035, revenue from transport is projected to decline by 0.5 percent of GDP, while electricity demand could rise by 20 percent with electrification of the vehicle fleet. These challenges would be best addressed with congestion pricing in urban areas and distance-based charges.

    Supporting EU Reforms

    1. The authorities should continue to push for rapid implementation of EU-wide reforms, including as the Netherlands stands to gain from these initiatives. With its mature markets, enhancing EU-wide competition by cutting intra-EU trade barriers would complement national efforts to boost business dynamism and productivity. EU-level actions to foster intra-EU labor mobility—recognition of professional qualifications, pension portability—are complementary to addressing labor and skill shortages at home. A European Savings and Investment Union (SIU) would broaden investment opportunities for Dutch savers and allow Dutch firms to more easily tap a wider pool of European savings. Finally, completing the EU energy market would ensure better connectivity and energy security, lower prices, and also lower investment needs to match increasing demand.

    *   *   *   *   *

    The IMF team thanks the authorities and other counterparts for the constructive policy dialogue and productive collaboration.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Eva-Maria Graf

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/19/mcs-05192025-kingdom-of-the-netherlands-staff-concluding-statement-of-2025-art-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: WATCH: Prolific offenders targeted in Met Police shoplifting crackdown

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met Police officers have secured significant banning orders against two prolific shoplifters as part of their continued crackdown on retail crime.

    Local officers worked with retailers in Greenwich to identify and arrest Winston Wright who stole more than £2,500 worth of goods from stores in the area over four months, banning him from every Sainsbury’s, Boots and Co-op in England and Wales.

    In a separate investigation, officers in Haringey secured an order to ban Patrick Verry from every Greggs store in England and Wales after he targeted a store seven times.

    Across London the Met is prioritising neighbourhood policing by putting more officers into local teams to tackle issues such as shoplifting.

    Officers are working with business owners to target the most prolific offenders who cause fear to retail workers and have a negative impact on communities.

    Chief Inspector Rav Pathania, the Met’s lead for tackling retail crime, said:

    “The Met is focused on tackling the most prolific shoplifters like Wright and Verry. They cause fear to retail workers and their offending has a negative impact on communities.

    “We continue to work with local business owners to investigate reports of shoplifting, understand concerns and use different tactics to crackdown, including targeted operations and regular patrols.”

    Winston Wright, 44 (08.04.81), of Lewisham, pleaded guilty to eight counts of shoplifting and one count of commercial burglary at Croydon Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 6 May 2025.

    As well as being given a Criminal Behaviour Order which bans him from entering any Sainsbury’s, Boots and Co-op in England and Wales for three years, he’s also been banned from entering the Royal Borough of Greenwich for three years, jailed for three months and fined £200.

    During the course of the investigation officers gathered CCTV from various stores which helped identify Wright as the offender. As a result he was stopped in Deptford High Street on Thursday, 20 March by a PCSO who recognised him.

    Patrick Verry, 33 (02.04.92), of no fixed address, was caught in the act by officers at the store in Wood Green High Road on Thursday, 15 May. He pleaded guilty to six counts of theft from the same store at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 16 May.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 21 May 2025 Departmental update WHO unveils groundbreaking global dashboards for Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine

    Source: World Health Organisation

    In time for the 78th World Health Assembly, WHO launched the first-ever WHO Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) Dashboards, on 21 May 2025 featuring comprehensive global and country-level profiles.

    This milestone builds on insights from the Third WHO Global Survey on TCIM, conducted between April 2023 and March 2024, and marks a significant leap forward in WHO’s data modernization agenda.

    The new dashboards transform static survey data into a dynamic, real-time digital platform, empowering Member States to continuously update and manage their national TCIM data. Key benefits include:

    • Real-time monitoring of national policies, regulatory frameworks, and integration of TCIM services
    • Timely and relevant global reporting on TCIM developments
    • Enhanced data accessibility for policymakers, health professionals, and researchers

    Users can explore the data through two distinct views:

    1. Default View – Aggregates the most recent data from all WHO global TCIM surveys, and
    2. Third Global Survey Only – Filters results exclusively from the latest survey via a simple toggle.

    This launch underscores WHO’s commitment to harnessing digital innovation to advance evidence-based policymaking, promote transparency, and strengthen global collaboration in the field of TCIM.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Helium Evolution Announces Filing of First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helium Evolution Incorporated (TSXV:HEVI) (“HEVI” or the “Company“), a Canadian-based helium exploration company focused on developing assets in southern Saskatchewan, today announced the filing of the Company’s interim condensed financial statements and associated management’s discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (the “Q1 Report”).

    Complete details of the Q1 Report are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and on HEVI’s website.

    Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 Highlights

        Three months ended
    Tabular amounts in thousands of
    Canadian Dollars, except share and per share amounts    		     March 31,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2024    		  
    Financial            
    Net loss     675   239  
    Net loss per share, basic and diluted     0.01   0.00  
    Cash     3,004   5,304  
    Working capital     1,966   4,992  
    Total assets     11,683   11,293  
    Total liabilities     1,500   872  
    Weighted average shares outstanding            
    Basic and diluted1     97,129,085   96,033,974  
     1The weighted average number of common shares outstanding is not increased for outstanding stock options and warrants when the effect is anti-dilutive.
     

    During the first quarter of 2025, HEVI maintained its focus on disciplined operational execution, closing the quarter with $2.0 million in working capital and a strong cash position. Subsequent to quarter-end, the Company completed or announced equity financings totaling approximately $3.4 million, further strengthening its balance sheet and supporting planned development and drilling initiatives for the remainder of 2025.

    Operationally, the Company drilled four wells in the Mankota area during the first quarter of 2025, in partnership with North American Helium Inc. (“NAH”), two of which discovered helium. To date, HEVI and NAH have successfully drilled six helium discovery wells, further substantiating the potential of the region. 

    Building upon this momentum, HEVI and NAH, are progressing with additional development plans in the Mankota area. Notably, NAH has secured a license for a facility (the “Soda Lake Facility”) to tie-in the 9-35 well, the 10-1 well and the 10-36 well in the northern part of the discovery, as shown on the map above. The Soda Lake Facility is expected to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking a significant milestone for HEVI with its first helium sales volumes. Additional drilling is planned for the second half of 2025 to advance the project further. 

    Stay Connected to Helium Evolution

    Shareholders and other parties interested in learning more about the Helium Evolution opportunity are encouraged to visit the Company’s website, which includes an updated corporate presentation, and are invited to follow the Company on LinkedIn and X for ongoing corporate updates and helium industry information. Helium Evolution also provides an extensive, commissioned ‘deep-dive’ research report prepared by a third party whose background includes serving as a research analyst for several bank-owned and independent investment dealers.    

    About Helium Evolution Incorporated

    Helium Evolution is a Canadian-based helium exploration company holding the largest helium land rights position in North America among publicly-traded companies, focused on developing assets in southern Saskatchewan. The Company has over five million acres of land under permit near proven discoveries of economic helium concentrations which will support scaling the exploration and development efforts across its land base. HEVI’s management and board are executing a differentiated strategy to become a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium for the growing global helium market.

    For further information, please contact:

    Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

    Forward-looking statements in this document include statements regarding the Company’s expectations regarding the Soda Lake Facility including timing, tie-in of wells to the Soda Lake Facility, the Company’s expectations regarding scalable helium production from its land generally, the Company and/or NAH’s plans to drill more wells, completion of the financing as announced, the Company becoming a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium, the Company’s belief regarding becoming a key player in the North American helium industry, the Company’s beliefs regarding growth of the global helium market and other statements that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others: NAH may be unsuccessful in drilling commercially productive wells; the Company and/or NAH may choose to defer, accelerate or abandon its exploration and development plans including future drilling; the Company and/or NAH may determine not to bring the helium wells onto production; the Company and/or NAH may abandon, defer or accelerate plans and decisions regarding the Soda Lake Facility; new laws or regulations and/or unforeseen events could adversely affect the Company’s business and results of operations; stock markets have experienced volatility that often has been unrelated to the performance of companies and such volatility may adversely affect the price of the Company’s securities regardless of its operating performance; the financings may not close as anticipated or at all; risks generally associated with the exploration for and production of resources; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to expenses and the Company’s working capital position; constraint in the availability of services; commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations; adverse weather or break-up conditions; and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures.

    When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and risks other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    An infographic accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ade519ed-7912-4ca5-8b3b-1edfd33a0e89

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    After a two-hour phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on May 19, US president Donald Trump took to social media to declare that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire and an end to the war. He did, however, add that the conditions for peace “will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be”.

    With the Vatican, according to Trump, “very interested in hosting the negotiations” and European leaders duly informed, it seems clear that the US has effectively abandoned its stalled mediation efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

    It was always a possibility that Trump could walk away from the war, despite previous claims he could end it in 24 hours. This only became more likely on May 16, when the first face-to-face negotiations between Ukraine and Russia for more than three years predictably ended without a ceasefire agreement.

    When Trump announced shortly afterwards that he would be speaking to his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts by phone a few days later, he effectively mounted the beginning of a rearguard action. This was further underlined when, shortly before the Trump-Putin call, Vice-President J.D. Vance, explicitly told reporters that the US could end its shuttle diplomacy.

    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.

    The meagre outcomes of the talks between Russia and Ukraine – as well as between Trump and Putin – are not surprising. Russia is clearly not ready for any concessions yet. It keeps insisting that Ukraine accept its maximalist demands of territorial concessions and future neutrality.

    Putin also continues to slow-walk any negotiations. After his call with Trump, he reportedly said that “Russia will offer and is ready to work with Ukraine on a memorandum on a possible future peace agreement”, including “a possible ceasefire for a certain period of time, should relevant agreements be reached.”

    The lack of urgency on Russia’s part to end the fighting and, in fact, the Kremlin’s ability and willingness to continue the war was emphasised the day before the Trump-Putin call. Russia carried out its largest drone attack against Ukraine so far in the war, targeting several regions including Kyiv.

    There has been no let-up in the fighting since. And the fact that Putin spoke to Trump while visiting a music school in the southern Russian city of Sochi does not suggest that a ceasefire in Ukraine is high on the Russian leader’s priority list.

    A large part of the Kremlin’s calculation seems to be its desire to strike a grand bargain with the White House on a broader reset of relations between the US and Russia. It is signalling clearly that this is more important than the war in Ukraine and might even happen without the fighting there ending.

    This also appears to be driving thinking in Washington. Trump foreshadowed an improvement in bilateral relations by describing the “tone and spirit” of his conversation with Putin as “excellent”. He also seemed pleased about the prospects of “large-scale trade” with Russia.

    Abandoning European allies

    Trump is on record as saying that there would be no progress towards peace in Ukraine until he and Putin get together. But it is worth bearing mind that very little movement towards a ceasefire in Ukraine – let alone a peace agreement – occurred after the last phone call between the two presidents in February.

    Part of this lack of progress has been Trump’s reluctance to put any real pressure on Putin. And despite agreement in Brussels and preparations in Washington for an escalation in sanctions against Russia, it is unlikely that Trump will change his approach.

    In this context, the sequence in which the calls occurred is telling. Trump and Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, had a short call before the former spoke with Putin. Zelensky said he told Trump not to make decisions about Ukraine “without us”.

    But rather than presenting Putin with a clear ultimatum to accept a ceasefire, Trump apparently discussed future relations with Putin at great length before informing Zelensky and key European allies that the war in Ukraine is now solely their problem to solve.

    This has certainly raised justifiable fears in Kyiv and European capitals that, for the sake of a reset with Russia, the US might yet completely abandon its allies across the Atlantic.

    However, if a reset with Russia at any cost really is Trump’s strategy, it is bound to fail. As much as Putin seems willing to continue with his aggression against Ukraine, Zelensky is as unwilling to surrender. Putin can rely on China’s continued backing while Zelensky can count on support from Europe.

    Supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine is essential for China to keep Moscow on side in its rivalry with the US. And for Europe, supporting Ukraine has become an existential question of deterring and containing a revisionist Russia hell-bent on restoring a Soviet-style sphere of influence in central and eastern Europe.

    In a world that has been in flux since Trump’s return to the White House, these are some of the emerging constants. And they make a US-Russia reset highly improbable.

    Even if it were to happen, it would not strengthen Washington’s position with Beijing. Walking away from Ukraine and Europe now will deprive the US of the very allies it will need in the long term to prevail in its rivalry with China.

    By abandoning his mediation between Moscow and Kyiv, Trump may have broken the deadlock in his efforts to achieve a reset with Russia. But getting this deal over the line will be a pyrrhic victory.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine – https://theconversation.com/after-another-call-with-putin-it-looks-like-trump-has-abandoned-efforts-to-mediate-peace-in-ukraine-257021

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Feats of the human body behind Tom Cruise’s stunts in Mission: Impossible movies

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol

    He’s leapt from cliffs, clung to planes mid-takeoff and held his breath underwater for as long as professional freedivers. Now, at 62, Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt for one final mission – and he’s still doing his own stunts.

    With Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, the saga reaches its high-stakes finale. But behind the scenes of death-defying spectacles lies a fascinating question: just how far can the human body be pushed – and trained – to pull off the seemingly impossible?

    And at what cost? In filming the eight Mission: Impossible films, Cruise has suffered a broken ankle, cracked ribs and a torn shoulder.

    Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to consider the capabilities – and limits – of the human body in being able to achieve these awesome heights. How much is it possible to train to achieve the apparently impossible?

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    Breathing underwater

    In Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, Hunt navigates an underwater vault to recover a stolen ledger. Cruise wanted to film this all in one take and sought help from freediving instructors in order to hold his breath for the required time – over six minutes!

    The average human can hold their breath for about 30 to 90 seconds. That’s without training. Although there’s an innate diving reflex built into the human body that allows it to temporarily adapt to immersion underwater.

    The response is to lower the heart rate and redirect blood to the body’s core, essentially enabling it to lower its metabolic demand and preserve the function of the vital organs, like the brain and heart.

    All well and good, but consider now the need to swim, as well as resist the pressure of the water pressing on the lungs. And also while fighting that desperate urge as a result of rising CO₂ to take a deep breath – which, underwater, would be catastrophic.

    And if the diver’s oxygen levels fall too low, they might black out and lose consciousness. That’s why shallow water drowning is a real risk here.

    That’s where freediving training comes into play. With practice, there are several ways you can increase the time you’re able to remain underwater. These include mastering breathing techniques to retain the maximum amount of air in the lungs. Sustained practice might also lead to increased oxygen storage capacity in the bloodstream.

    This process takes months to years to attain and might lengthen the immersion time, on average, to around five minutes. What Cruise managed to achieve was nothing short of exceptional.

    The official trailer for Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning.

    Free climbing – and that scene

    Mission Impossible films often open with Ethan Hunt working his way up some impossibly sheer building or cliff face with the agility of a mountain goat. He appears to be free climbing without a harness, and at the start of Mission: Impossible 2, clinging on with just one hand. While Cruise used safety wires to secure himself, the climbing was 100% real.

    Then, of course, how could we forget that scene? The one in the original Mission: Impossible – where he has to suspend all limbs, centimetres from the ground, to prevent himself from setting off the alarms.

    Although Cruise hasn’t revealed his specific training regime for these stunts that I can see – performing any of these actions would require an exceptionally strong back and core.

    The muscles of our backs keep the spine straight and upright. Some span the space between back and limb, such as latissimus dorsi, or “lats”. These sheets of muscle, prized by bodybuilders, are also particularly valuable to climbers – allowing you to perform a chin-up, or pull yourself up that rock face.

    Besides this, many other muscles are needed for extreme climbing – those that enable a strong grip, allow for reaching and “push offs”, and maintain tension and hold. It’s no wonder climbing is considered one of the best whole-body workouts.

    It’s no surprise that Cruise is known to have trained extensively for this. To understand even an element of the difficulty he may have faced, you could try adopting that vault heist pose, with your belly in contact with the floor, and see how long you can hold it. I won’t tell you how pitiful my own attempt was.

    What a blast

    Hunt has also escaped a fair few explosions in his time, from a helicopter in the Channel tunnel to a detonating fish tank in Prague. In Mission: Impossible 3, on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, another helicopter launching a missile triggers an explosion that sends Hunt smashing into a car. Again, Cruise did it all himself, for the price of two cracked ribs.

    Pyrotechnics were used for the explosion, but of course, they couldn’t be used to lift Cruise up and deposit him against the car. The solution? A series of wires were used to drag him sideways. Never has the direction “brace, brace” been so apt.

    And just so you know, broken or bruised ribs are far from fun. Some describe them as one of the most painful injuries you can experience, since the simple acts of coughing, sneezing and merely breathing exacerbate the pain.

    But Tom Cruise picks himself up yet again, dusts himself off and gets on with it. His motivation? He has reportedly claimed that he wants the audience to experience what it really feels to be in that moment. And what a good sport he is.

    This article won’t self-destruct in five seconds.

    Dan Baumgardt 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. Feats of the human body behind Tom Cruise’s stunts in Mission: Impossible movies – https://theconversation.com/feats-of-the-human-body-behind-tom-cruises-stunts-in-mission-impossible-movies-256908

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Spotify continues to change music. What’s next – will AI musicians replace music made by humans?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra

    Spotify was started, according to its official claims, because its founders “love music and piracy was killing it”. In Mood Machine, music journalist Liz Pelly argues this is rewriting history.

    In fact, she points out, Spotify founder Daniel Ek initially patented a platform around 2006, for circulating “any kind of digital content”. Only months later did he and his co-founder decide music might be the most profitable form of content.

    Review: Mood Machine: The Rise of Spotify and the Costs of the Perfect Playlist – Liz Pelly (Hodder & Stoughton)

    Ek grew up in a working-class suburb of Stockholm. A neighbour recalled that, while still at school, Ek had set up a website-making business – and was earning more than his teachers. Rejected for a job at Google, he founded an ad-targeting business, Advertigo. After he sold it to tech entrepreneur Martin Lorentzon, the two men registered a new company: Spotify.

    ‘The Google of music’

    Spotify would allow users to find their desired piece of music quickly. Ek described it in 2009 as “essentially the Google of music”, Pelly writes. He had a “maniacal focus” on ensuring a user would get a virtually instantaneous response when they pressed play; no annoying buffering.

    Spotify launched in Europe in 2008 and in the United States in 2011. It listed on the stock market in 2018. Spotify has just recorded its first annual profit. It is valued at over US$100 billion: more than the three leading recording companies combined.

    It had 678 million users at March 2025: of them, 268 million were paying subscribers. The rest contribute to Spotify’s earnings by listening to advertisements: the so-called “freemium” model.

    Boon or bane of musicians?

    Music streaming now accounts for 84% of recorded music revenue, according to Pelly – and Spotify is the largest music streamer.

    Initially, Spotify looked like a boon to musicians, she writes. It could save music from the threat of “pirate” downloading, which gave no payments to creators. But many musicians are critical of the low payments artists get: fractions of a cent per stream.

    Spotify claims that in 2024 it paid out more than US$10 billion to the music industry. It claims nearly 1,500 artists are earning over US$1 million annually.

    Spotify pays the recording and publishing rights holders, not the singers and songwriters. How much the latter gets depends on their contracts with the record companies. The system is complicated, indirect and not that transparent.

    ‘Mixtapes still work’ – so do playlists

    Spotify gradually shifted towards playlists, to simplify the process of users selecting music. Some playlists, like “today’s top hits”, just consisted of the currently most popular songs. These are like the “top 40” format of many commercial radio stations.

    Spotify also hired music experts to compile their choice of the best new releases. The compilers of the most popular of these playlists, such as the playlist “rap caviar”, became very influential. A Spotify advertisement in 2013 made the analogy between playlists and mixtapes (as featured in Nick Hornby’s High Fidelity), claiming “mixtapes still work”.

    Spotify advertising claims ‘mixtapes still work’, referencing High Fidelity.

    Spotify also increasingly tried to increase passive listening. It introduced playlists geared to match the existing tastes of listeners and allow for how these might vary across the day. It termed this “music for every moment”: music to exercise to, background music for studying, music to help you sleep and so on. I have a playlist of songs about economics.

    Ek said in 2016: “we really want to soundtrack every moment of your life”.

    One of the parts of the book I found most intriguing was Pelly’s discussion of how this echoes a strategy developed by Thomas Edison around a century ago. He produced shellac 78 rpm records with titles such as “in moods of wistfulness” and “for more energy!”.

    In 2014, Spotify made large investments in “algorithmic personalisation”. This suggested music similar in key, tempo, time signature, acousticness, danceability, loudness, mode and energy to whatever the user was already choosing.

    This kept users “within their comfort zone (or as Spotify thought of it, their customer retention zone)”. But it meant users were much less likely to encounter new styles and artists, or broaden their musical horizons.

    Generic music and AI

    While Spotify denies it, Pelly claims Spotify commissions session musicians, playing under assumed names, to record very generic-sounding music, for playlists such as “chill instrumental beats”. Pelly gives an example of 20 songwriters using 500 names to produce thousands of tracks, streamed millions of times.

    A “looming cloud” is the prospect AI-generated music will displace human musicians and singers in Spotify’s playlists, Pelly writes. She mentions that Spotify blocked a start-up called Boomy, which released over 14.5 million AI-generated songs – and has since struck up a partnership with Warner.

    Another controversy is around Spotify’s Discovery Mode, which offers artists more promotion of their songs in exchange for accepting lower payments. But if most artists do this, the promotions cancel each other out, leaving all the artists worse off.

    How Spotify is changing music

    Pelly quotes an independent record label founder who says Spotify has changed the nature of the music being made.

    It’s not sustainable to put out challenging records […] you have to put out records that are going to get repeat listens in coffee shops […] that are going to be playlist friendly.

    This is despite some music fans saying the music they experience as “life-changing, really profound” is different from the songs they play most often.

    Songs streamed are only monetised after 30 seconds. This has created “a particular emphasis placed on perfecting song intros […] songwriters would just dive directly into the chorus”. So, no more songs with long waits for the vocals, like U2, the Temptations, Dire Straits or Pink Floyd.

    Artists who want their songs to appear on playlists need them to match a particular mood or context. This means songs increasingly “remain in a single emotional register throughout”.

    It may mean artists are less likely to release songs with marked tempo changes, such as Dexys’ Midnight Runners’ Come on Eileen (1982), Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven (1971), Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody (1975) or Franz Ferdinand’s Take Me Out (2004). There may still be much smaller tempo changes, such as Taylor Swift’s Evermore from 2020.

    Artists may now be less likely to release songs with marked tempo changes, such as Dexys’ Midnight Runners’ Come on Eileen.

    The “Spotify for artists” service provides artists with data about the streaming of their songs. A band planning a tour can see in which cities or countries they are most popular. They can even alter their set lists to include the songs particularly popular in particular areas.

    But Spotify monitors use of this facility, Pelly writes – and it is not clear how they use the data. Over time, it may encourage artists to repeat aspects of their most popular songs, rather than innovate and evolve.

    A serious look

    The book is interesting and informative, but somewhat dryer than some other recent exposes of the tech sector. Partly this is because Ek is a less colourful character than X’s Elon Musk, or Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg.


    Pelly does not provide the witty lines of tech journalist Kara Swisher’s Burn Book. She is not a gossipy former insider, like director of global public policy at Meta, Sarah Wynn-Williams.

    As an economist, I felt the book complemented sociologist Michael Walsh’s Streaming Sounds: Musical Listening in the Digital Age. Walsh describes the demand for music streaming. Pelly analyses the supply side.

    Pelly rightly describes her book as a “serious look” at Spotify. It brings together a lot of useful information about the company and raises good questions about whether it is changing the music industry – and music itself – for the better.

    The debate will continue, as AI increases its influence and artists become more concerned about their songs being “TikTok friendly”, as well as “Spotify friendly”. Perhaps there will be more songs like Steve’s Lava Chicken from A Minecraft Movie. Just 34 seconds long, it recently became the shortest song to make the UK top 40.

    John Hawkins 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. Spotify continues to change music. What’s next – will AI musicians replace music made by humans? – https://theconversation.com/spotify-continues-to-change-music-whats-next-will-ai-musicians-replace-music-made-by-humans-253630

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kugler, Commencement Remarks

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Thank you, Stefano, and before I say anything else, congratulations to the Class of 2025!1 My family is here today, so let me acknowledge my husband Ignacio, my daughter Miri, my son Danny, and my parents who are watching from elsewhere. I start with family because I know it takes a village! So, I want to acknowledge the enormous accomplishment by the graduates and also by their families and friends who supported them through this journey. Let’s give all of them a big round of applause! I also want to thank the leaders of Berkeley’s economics program for giving me the privilege of returning here, as a graduate of this program, to be a part of what is, in fact, my very first economics commencement ceremony here at Berkeley.
    On a similar spring afternoon in 1997, when my classmates were walking across this stage, I was across the country, hurrying to finish my dissertation at the Brookings Institution and preparing to start my first job as an economist. I would have loved to be here, as you are, and I praise you for taking the time to share with your classmates, friends, and family this moment of recognition for the huge achievement today represents. But somehow, at the time of my graduation, I felt the need to get on with earning a living and moving forward with my life, as I am sure many of you are eager to do also.
    So, you can understand that this is a very special—and also a little strange— moment for me because it feels, in a way, like I am celebrating my own graduation 28 years later! I think it is also an unusual situation for all of you to listen to this speaker who was once where you are today. It is unusual because standing at this podium now is not just the person I have become in the decades since leaving Berkeley. Standing beside me, very close by today, is also the young woman I was in 1997, who was too busy to attend her own graduation. You will be hearing at times from both of us today, and we may even exchange a few words with each other.
    This sounds a little like that Aubrey Plaza movie you may have seen last year, in which a young woman gets advice from her older self. Unfortunately, unlike Aubrey Plaza’s character, I cannot help my younger version through the many challenges that she will face, and let me tell you, there were many challenges indeed, and yet here I am! Nevertheless, because of my proximity, today, to that younger self, I hope I can see the world a little more through your eyes, when I try to offer some words of wisdom. I know, I know, commencement speakers are expected to provide wisdom and advice. But really, today, I would like to mainly tell you that the wisdom and also the conviction of my younger self are what allowed me to navigate the challenges along the way. So, trust yourselves!
    As I have indicated, the younger version of me was quite impatient to get her professional life started and try to make a mark in the world. The older me would say, “Take your time, figure out who you are, who you will become! Life is long, and among other things, life teaches you to have patience to work for big goals.” There is merit to this advice, of course, but today I am thinking about how I felt when I was in your shoes, and I am thinking that one of the underappreciated gifts of younger people is, in fact, impatience. I will say more about this, but if you take a look around at all the many urgent challenges we face here in the U.S. and the world, many of which depend on the powerful tool of economics and its potential to make people’s lives better, then I would certainly say that some impatience is, indeed, very much what we need.
    I speak of economics as a tool because that is all that it is. It is not a philosophy, a value system, or a religion, although I acknowledge that some in our profession might treat it that way. Economics can’t answer all the questions we face in our lives. Economics can’t tell us how to treat each other, or what kind of world we should strive to create, but it is a means to those ends.
    And even the answers that economics can provide are always evolving, as our understanding of economic behavior and phenomena evolves. What we understand in economics has evolved in the years since I left Berkeley, and it will continue to evolve. While this understanding does change over time, I think of it as changing like the California landscape changes. Some towns and cities grow, some decline, and there is the occasional earthquake to shake things up. But the landmarks that guide us in economics—the Golden Gate, the Sierra Nevada—they have been standing for a while now, and I believe they will continue to stand for a long time to come.
    Using these landmarks, these foundational and time-tested insights, economics can indeed be a powerful tool. But it is a tool, only to the extent, like any other tool, that it is useful. A brilliant insight, if not applied, or tested, or employed for some useful purpose, is like the gadget you pick up at the hardware store and never use. It is just taking up space in the toolbox. When economics reveals how to use resources efficiently, how to raise production and income and lower costs, these insights are only useful if they are applied—if they win in the marketplace of ideas.
    As you embark on your careers as economists, and the myriad ways in which you can employ the knowledge and skills you have acquired, one cause that I hope you all will embrace is actively participating in this marketplace of ideas. I hope you do, because, from the level of the individual household to the loftiest decisions of business leaders and government, employing the foundational insights of economics is the difference between prosperity and the utterly avoidable lack of prosperity.
    It is tempting to think that time-tested and broadly accepted ideas are permanent. In fact, the debate has never ended on many foundational ideas of economics, some of which can seem counterintuitive to people. These are ideas that must be fought for, because, as I said, to lose that fight is to go backward and accept less prosperity.
    Among the aspirations that each of you hold as you leave the Greek theater today, I hope that you will use what you have learned at Berkeley to be part of this fight. I would go further and argue that, along with the diplomas that you are receiving today, you will also carry with you a special responsibility to promote these principles and use them to promote greater prosperity for all. I am not shy in saying that economists have such a responsibility, nor in saying that the learning you have acquired qualifies you to be an active participant in these debates. I believe your expertise matters, because, in the cacophony of opinions, and trolling, and disinformation that seems to crowd ever more into the marketplace of ideas each year, I cling to the idea that expertise still matters. In his book The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth, Jonathan Rauch argues that, just as important as America’s written Constitution is an unwritten one, based on a widespread agreement on what is true and what is not true. Knowledge, he writes, as it is added to and preserved over time, is a special glue, that Gorilla clear and precise super glue, that helps to hold society together and settle many conflicts. Expertise matters as the basis for that knowledge. When your expertise as economists is absent, when your voices are absent from the debate, knowledge suffers, and we are all poorer because of it.
    Let me pause for a moment because I am hearing from my younger self just now that these commencement remarks are maybe getting a little heavy. I can understand how she feels. Think about how things looked in 1997. The Cold War was over! The tech boom was just taking off, which meant that Oakland was still affordable. Honestly, in hindsight life back then sounds a lot less complicated than it seems today. My first job was at Pompeu Fabra University in Spain, and my second was at a large public university, the University of Houston. I had some research ideas, mostly in the area of labor economics, and I found some great collaborators, and I was off to the races. Today, I realize that colleges and universities are facing challenges like never before, which means that the prospect of trying to make a career in academia is much less certain.
    Public service is another traditional destination for economists, and I have been very fortunate to be able to move forward in my career as an academic, while taking time out on three occasions to work in Washington—as chief economist at the Department of Labor, as the U.S. executive director at the World Bank, and now as a governor at the Federal Reserve Board. By contrast, it is, of course, to put it mildly, a very challenging time to be thinking about starting a career in public service, at least at the federal level.
    I can stand here today and lament the new challenges faced by you and by many others in the Class of 2025. I am a mom, and my kids are also facing new circumstances. But I also look back sometimes and wonder how I got here. And this is another case where I believe the 27-year-old me had more wisdom than I do. If she were crossing this stage today, with you, facing these undeniable challenges, I do not think she would be discouraged. She would stubbornly say: “I love economic research; I will find a way to become an academic.” If you told her about the challenges facing colleges and universities, she would say that it is simply unthinkable that America would not support the greatest post-secondary educational system in the world. And if you told her that a pendulum swing in opinion might limit opportunities in public service, she might say: “If the purpose of life is helping others, (and I think it is) then public service will be valued, and it is something I must do, and that I will do.”
    I think if you had told the 27-year-old me that she could not achieve these things, which she dreamed of, she would stubbornly refuse to accept it. And of course, this is the way that humankind eventually solves most big problems. More than anything else, it is stubborn determination, which I hope is in good supply among you already, and which I encourage you to cultivate. You have already, of course, one of the greatest assets that anyone can have to make a career in economics, which is an education from one of the greatest universities in the world—the University of California, Berkeley. When I attended here, I had the privilege of taking classes with four winners of the Nobel Prize, and many people tell me that, if anything, the faculty is even stronger today. In my recent work at the Fed, I have had occasion to cite research by six current faculty members in public speeches. You have learned from the best, and with your energy, expertise, impatience, and stubborn determination, I know that nothing will stop you! Whatever you choose to do, I hope you will make use of what you have learned at Berkeley to be an active part of that marketplace of ideas. Go forth from here and make the world a brighter and better place. Go seize the day as you head out Sather Gate! Congratulations, again, Class of 2025, and thank you.

    1. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Unifiedpost Group rebrands to Banqup Group, reinforcing its position as a pure-play SaaS provider

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release – Regulated Information

    Unifiedpost Group rebrands to Banqup Group, reinforcing its position as a pure-play SaaS provider

    La Hulpe, Belgium – 20 May 2025, 22:00 CET – REGULATED INFORMATION – Banqup Group SA, formerly Unifiedpost Group SA, (Euronext: UPG) (Banqup, Company), a leading provider of integrated business communications solutions, held an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) and Annual General Meeting (AGM).

    The shareholders approved all proposed resolutions (here), including:

    EGM:  Strategic rebranding from Unifiedpost Group SA to Banqup Group SA across the Group. This further underpins our focus on core digital services and aligns our business as a pure-play SaaS provider. The rebranding offers our stakeholders a clear understanding of our product and value proposition, reinforcing our commitment to growth in e-invoicing and payment solutions.

    AGM: Enhanced governance with the approval of the updated remuneration policy and  the appointment of four new Board members:

    • Nicolas de Beco, representing Beco Global Consulting LLC, as executive director
    • Nathalie Van Den Haute, representing Quilaudem BV,  as non-executive director
    • Koen Hoffman, representing Ahok BV, as an independent director
    • Leanne Kemp as an independent director

    The minutes, voting results and presentation of the AGM will be available on the shareholder page (here) in the
    coming days.

    Financial Calendar:

    • 22 May 2025: Publication of the Q1 2025 business update
    • 26 August 2025: Publication of the H1 2025 results (webcast)
    • 13 November 2025: Publication of the Q3 2025 business update

    Contact
    Alex Nicoll
    Investor Relations
    Banqup Group
    alex.nicoll@unifiedpost.com

      

    About Banqup Group

    Banqup Group delivers integrated cloud-based SaaS solutions to streamline business transactions across the entire lifecycle, from e-invoicing and e-payments to tax reporting. Banqup, our solution for businesses, unifies purchase-to-pay, order-to-cash, e-invoicing compliance, and e-payments into one secure platform, removing the complexity of juggling disconnected tools. eFaktura World, our solution for governments, is a comprehensive digital platform designed for tax administrations to implement e-invoicing and streamline both B2G and B2B tax reporting flows. To learn more about Banqup Group and our solutions, please visit our website: Unifiedpost Group | Global leaders in digital solutions

    Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: The statements contained herein may include prospects, statements of future expectations, opinions, and other forward-looking statements in relation to the expected future performance of Banqup Group and the markets in which it is active. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions regarding future events. By nature, they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that appear justified at the time at which they are made but may not turn out to be accurate. Actual results, performance or events may, therefore, differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law, Banqup Group does not undertake any obligation to update, clarify or correct any forward-looking statements contained in this press release in light of new information, future events or otherwise and disclaims any liability in respect hereto. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

     

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Graduates and movers rejoice: Total Wireless introduces $35 home internet with special offer on router

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Graduates and movers rejoice: Total Wireless introduces $35 home internet with special offer on router

    NEW YORK – As graduates embark on the exciting journey of moving to a new apartment or even a new city, Total Wireless, a leading prepaid brand powered by Verizon’s 5G network, ensures they can stay connected without breaking the bank. Total Wireless is in your corner, offering unbeatable home internet deals that combine affordability with top-notch quality.

    Unlimited Total Wireless Home Internet for Just $35 Per Month

    Customers can now enjoy unlimited home internet for just $35 per month with Auto Pay, when bundled with the Total Wireless 5G Unlimited Plan or higher*. Total Wireless is committed to providing a stress-free internet experience, featuring no long-term contracts, a 5-year price guarantee, and easy setup.

    Exclusive Discounts on Total Wireless Home Internet Routers

    To make the transition even smoother, for a limited time, customers can get a new Home Internet Router for just $24.99 when activating new services on the Total Wireless Home Internet plan. This offer provides exceptional, unrivaled prices and value, giving customers significant savings during moments that matter. Limit one device per account. For more details, visit TotalWireless.com

    Save More with Bundled Plans with Fios Service

    In addition to these fantastic deals, customers can access exclusive savings when combining eligible mobile and internet services. Beginning May 28, customers who have both an eligible Verizon Fios Home Internet plan and mobile phone plan – including from Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, Walmart Family Mobile, Visible, or Verizon Prepaid — can enjoy a $15 per month discount on their Verizon Fios home internet bill, saving up to $180 per year. This discount can be combined with the $10 Auto-Pay discount for even greater savings, up to $300 per year. For more details, please visit https://www.verizon.com/discounts/phone-home-internet-bundle/?type=valueoffer.

    Fios Home Internet Available in Select Total Wireless Stores

    Starting June 5, qualified Total Wireless stores in the Fios footprint across New England and the Mid-Atlantic will begin offering Fios Home Internet plans for in-store purchase. This marks the first time Fios is available in select Total Wireless retail store locations, giving Total Wireless customers access to the fast and reliable speeds of fiber optic internet. Check www.totalwireless.com/stores/ to see if your local Total Wireless store offers Fios Home Internet, starting on 6/5.

    “We understand how stressful and financially straining it can be for anyone who’s moving, graduating, or starting a new chapter in their lives,” said David Kim, Chief Revenue Officer at Verizon Value. “Total Wireless is always in your corner, offering affordable home internet that fits your life. Whether it’s our $35 Total Wireless Home Internet plan or access to the fast, 100% fiber network of Fios, now also available in select Total Wireless stores, customers can enjoy even greater value during life’s big transitions.” 

    Total Wireless Home Internet empowers customers to stay connected with loved ones, stream their favorite shows and movies, and work or study from home effortlessly. Experience fast, reliable internet with Total Wireless, with connectivity for all your needs.

    For more information, visit totalwireless.com or your nearest Total Wireless store.

    About Total Wireless

    Total Wireless is a fast-growing, no-contract wireless provider covered by the Verizon 5G network, with over 1,000 exclusive stores across the country, and counting. On a mission to raise the bar in prepaid wireless, Total Wireless disrupts the status quo by offering more value than any other no-contract provider. Total Wireless offers plans with unlimited data and access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra-Wideband network, prices guaranteed for five years (taxes and fees included), select free 5G phones with qualifying purchase plans, and more.

    Total Wireless is part of the Verizon Value portfolio of prepaid brands, which includes Straight Talk, Visible, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, SafeLink, Walmart Family Mobile, and Verizon Prepaid. Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) is one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products and services.

    For more information on Total Wireless, visit one of its exclusive storefronts across the country, or check out TotalWireless.com.

    *$15/mo discount when bundled with Total 5G Unlimited or Total 5G+ Unlimited plans; additional $10/mo Auto Pay discount upon enrollment. Auto Pay discount applies the month after you enroll.

    **$15/mo savings on Verizon Fios Home Internet plans when combined with any eligible Total Wireless mobile phone plan and $10/mo Auto Pay on Fios Home Internet plan. Separate enrollment required for Fios Home Internet plans and Auto Pay on Fios Home Internet plans required. Discount will be removed if you do not maintain service on an eligible phone plan or Fios Home Internet plan, or if you do not maintain Auto Pay on Fios Home Internet plan. Fios availability, coverage, and speeds may vary based on your address.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: $XDX Presale Heats Up as XenDex Readies First Audit and Platform Design Reveal

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With XRP rapidly regaining its dominance across the global crypto market, XenDex is solidifying its position as the most promising decentralized exchange being built on the XRP Ledger. And with the $XDX presale entering its final stretch, urgency is building fast.

    The soft cap is already filled, and with the hard cap now almost fully reached, only a limited number of $XDX tokens remain before the presale closes. As investor excitement surges, XenDex has officially announced two major milestones this week:

    Buy $XDX Before Exchange Listing

    1. A full mockup design of the XenDex platform will be unveiled showcasing its clean, intuitive user interface and how all major features will operate.
    2. XenDex will undergo its first third-party security audit, reinforcing its commitment to safety, smart contract integrity, and long-term trust.

    What Is XenDex?

    XenDex is building the first all-in-one decentralized finance platform for XRPL, combining the most in-demand tools into a single seamless platform:

    • AI-Powered Copy Trading
    • Non-Custodial Lending & Borrowing
    • Cross-Chain Trading (with BNB, Ethereum, and Solana)

    Purchase $XDX At A low Price

    Only $XDX presale buyers will receive early access to Version 1 of the platform.

    Why Is XRP Surging?

    XRP’s bullish momentum follows several landmark events:

    • SEC lawsuit officially withdrawn
    • Judge Torres’ rulings in Ripple’s favor
    • Approval of ProShares’ XRP Futures ETF
    • Brazil’s first XRP Spot ETF launch

    With rising institutional interest, analysts are now forecasting long-term XRP price targets as high as $1,000 and XenDex is launching at the perfect moment to ride that wave.

    $XDX Presale Details

    • Soft Cap: Filled
    • Price: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX
    • Minimum Buy: 150 XRP

    Buy XDX on XenDex

    Major Listings Confirmed

    Post-presale, $XDX will be listed on:

    • Binance
    • Gate.io
    • MEXC
    • BitMart
    • FirstLedger
    • MagneticX

    Join the XenDex Community

    Buy $XDX – xendex.net/presale
    Telegram – t.me/xendexcommunity
    X (Twitter) – x.com/xendex_xrp
    XenDex Docs – xdxdocs.gitbook.io

    Contact:
    Frank Richards
    Frank@xendex.net

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. 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.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/520da55d-69bd-4670-ba05-f4ba3e6c93d8

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Maritime Security, Pandemic Agreement & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:

    Security Council
    ECOSOC
    World Health Organization
    Cyprus
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon/Israel
    Yemen
    Libya
    Chad
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Afghanistan
    International Labour Organization
    World Bee Day

    ———————————
    SECURITY COUNCIL
    This morning, the Security Council held a meeting on Maintenance of international peace and security: Strengthening maritime security through international cooperation for global stability. Briefing Council members, the Secretary-General noted that today’s debate shines a light on a fundamental fact: Without maritime security, there can be no global security. But maritime spaces are increasingly under strain, he said, from both traditional threats and emerging dangers, adding that no region is spared and that the problem is getting worse.
    The Secretary-General said that looking ahead, action is needed in three key areas. First — respect for international law, second — we need to intensify efforts to address the root causes of maritime insecurity, and third — throughout, we need partnerships, involving everyone with a stake in maritime spaces.
    He called on all to take action to support and secure maritime spaces, and the communities and people counting on them.

    ECOSOC
    The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Operational Activities for Development Segment opens today. The three-day meeting will focus on activities of the United Nations development system (UNDS) and will include a high-level dialogue with the Secretary-General at 3 pm today. We’ll share his remarks with you.
    Tomorrow morning, the Deputy Secretary-General will present the annual report on the work of the Development Coordination Office and the Resident Coordinator system. The report highlights the critical role of the revitalized Resident Coordinator system in making the UN development system more effective, efficient and responsive, to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. The full report and its interactive version are available on the UNSDG website (unsdg.un.org) and the meeting will be webcast on UN Web TV.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=20%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1A1ycNx0Cb4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: ESET Research uncovers Operation RoundPress: Russia-aligned Sednit targets entities linked to the Ukraine war to steal confidential data

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • ESET researchers uncovered the Operation RoundPress espionage campaign, with Russia-aligned Sednit group most likely behind it.
    • In Operation RoundPress, the compromise vector is a spearphishing email leveraging an XSS vulnerability to inject malicious JavaScript code into the victim’s webmail page. It targets Roundcube, Horde, MDaemon, and Zimbra webmail software.
    • Most victims are governmental entities and defense companies in Eastern Europe, although ESET has observed governments in Africa, Europe, and South America being targeted as well.
    • The payloads are able to steal webmail credentials, and exfiltrate contacts and email messages from the victim’s mailbox.
    • Additionally, SpyPress.MDAEMON is able to set up a bypass for two-factor authentication.

    MONTREAL and BRATISLAVA, Slovakia, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESET researchers have uncovered a Russia-aligned espionage operation, which ESET named RoundPress, targeting webmail servers via XSS vulnerabilities. Behind it is most likely the Russia-aligned Sednit (also known as Fancy Bear or APT28) cyberespionage group, holding the ultimate goal of stealing confidential data from specific email accounts. Most of the targets are related to the current war in Ukraine; they are either Ukrainian governmental entities or defense companies in Bulgaria and Romania. Notably, some of these defense companies are producing Soviet-era weapons to be sent to Ukraine. Other targets include African, EU, and South American governments.

    “Last year, we observed different XSS vulnerabilities being used to target additional webmail software: Horde, MDaemon, and Zimbra. Sednit also started to use a more recent vulnerability in Roundcube, CVE-2023-43770. The MDaemon vulnerability — CVE-2024-11182, now patched — was a zero day, most likely discovered by Sednit, while the ones for Horde, Roundcube, and Zimbra were already known and patched,” says ESET researcher Matthieu Faou, who discovered and investigated Operation RoundPress. Sednit sends these XSS exploits by email; the exploits lead to the execution of malicious JavaScript code in the context of the webmail client web page running in a browser window. Therefore, only data accessible from the target’s account can be read and exfiltrated.

    In order for the exploit to work, the target must be convinced to open the email message in the vulnerable webmail portal. This means that the email needs to bypass any spam filtering, and the subject line needs to be convincing enough to entice the target into reading the email message — abusing well-known news media such as Ukrainian news outlet Kyiv Post or Bulgarian news portal News.bg. Among the headlines used as spearphishing were: “SBU arrested a banker who worked for enemy military intelligence in Kharkiv” and “Putin seeks Trump’s acceptance of Russian conditions in bilateral relations”.

    The attackers unleash JavaScript payloads SpyPress.HORDE, SpyPress.MDAEMON, SpyPress.ROUNDCUBE, and SpyPress.ZIMBRA upon the targets. Those are capable of credential stealing; exfiltration of the address book, contacts, and log-in history; and exfiltration of email messages. SpyPress.MDAEMON is able to set up a bypass for two-factor authentication protection; it exfiltrates the two-factor authentication secret and creates an app password, which enables the attackers to access the mailbox from a mail application.

    “Over the past two years, webmail servers such as Roundcube and Zimbra have been a major target for several espionage groups, including Sednit, GreenCube, and Winter Vivern. Because many organizations don’t keep their webmail servers up to date, and because the vulnerabilities can be triggered remotely by sending an email message, it is very convenient for attackers to target such servers for email theft,” explains Faou.

    The Sednit group — also known as APT28, Fancy Bear, Forest Blizzard, or Sofacy — has been operating since at least 2004. The U.S. Department of Justice named the group as one of those responsible for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) hack just before the 2016 U.S. elections and linked the group to the GRU. The group is also presumed to be behind the hacking of global television network TV5Monde, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) email leak, and many other incidents.

    For a more detailed analysis and technical breakdown of Sednit’s tools used in Operation RoundPress, check out the latest ESET Research blogpost “Operation RoundPress” on WeLiveSecurity.com. Make sure to follow ESET Research on Twitter (today known as X), BlueSky, and Mastodon for the latest news from ESET Research.

    Map of operation RoundPress targets, according to ESET telemetry

    About ESET

    ESET® provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of emerging global cyberthreats, both known and unknown — securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, our AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. The ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow our social media, podcasts and blogs.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/eee3ee68-80dc-4136-a11d-6f498092f7d1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Issues Statement on Court Decision Granting a Preliminary Injunction Against TVUSD’s Curriculum Resolution

    Source: US State of California

    Tuesday, May 20, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement in response to the California Fourth District Court of Appeal’s decision to reverse in part the Riverside County Superior Court’s order denying a preliminary injunction against the Forced Outing Policy and Curriculum Resolution enacted by the Temecula Valley School District (TVUSD) Board of Trustees, with instructions to enter a preliminary injunction as to the Curriculum Resolution. The Court found that the Curriculum Resolution, which widely restricted curricular content as well as discussions of history and current events, was unconstitutionally vague, because “the Resolution’s language is ambiguous, lacks clear definitions, is unclear in scope, is seemingly irreconcilable with state-mandated educational requirements, and contains no enforcement guidelines.” As the appellate decision recognizes, the Curriculum Resolution was dramatically overbroad, including provisions that could be construed to bar lessons about discriminatory Jim Crow laws, segregation, racial inequalities in the criminal justice system, and the civil rights movement. The Court also found that the challenge against TVUSD’s Forced Outing Policy was moot because the Board rescinded the Policy in December, and AB 1955, which prohibits forced outing policies like TVUSD’s, is now in effect. In so doing, the Court clearly stated its expectation that “the Board will act in good faith and follow the law.”

    In October 2024, Attorney General Bonta filed an amicus brief urging the Court to reverse the order denying a preliminary injunction, arguing that (1) the Forced Disclosure Policy violates California’s Equal Protection Clause and (2) the Curriculum Resolution violates students’ right to receive information under the free speech provision of the California Constitution.

    “Every student deserves the right to feel seen, valued, and welcome in their learning environment. This decision reinforces the principle that all students should have access to inclusive, affirming curricula that reflects the diversity of their communities and the richness of our shared history. And it reaffirms that California law protects the rights of transgender students to live authentically and without fear. In California, we recognize the importance of curricula that reflect the full scope of the human experience and all our communities — including through instruction on history, racial and socioeconomic inequality, and other subjects — and equip students with the tools to work towards a more just society. Education is meant to empower students to think critically, challenge injustice, and see themselves, as well as one another, in the narratives that shape our society. Schools have a responsibility in providing environments where all students can thrive. Policies that ban inclusive curricula or forcibly out transgender and gender-nonconforming students not only target some of our most vulnerable youth, but also inflict real harm, undermining students’ well-being and academic success. That’s why at the California Department of Justice, we remain committed to protecting the rights of all students and ensuring that schools remain a welcoming and inclusive place for all.”

    A copy of the decision can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Duo Sentenced to 17 Years Each for Violent Armed Carjackings

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— Bryant Hoskins, 20, and Samuel Fancher, Jr., 19, of Indianapolis, have each been sentenced to 17 years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to two counts of carjacking, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

    According to court documents, in late May of 2024, Fancher Jr. and Hoskins committed two violent carjackings in less than one week, targeting Uber drivers during the late-night hours.

    On May 24, 2024, at 4:30 in the morning, the duo called an Uber to pick them up near East 21st street in Indianapolis. Once they reached their drop off location, they held the driver at gunpoint and ordered him to get out of the car. When the driver did not immediately comply, one of the defendants dragged the driver out of the car and punched him in the head. They took the driver’s wallet and then drove away in his Toyota Rav 4. After fleeing the scene, they took videos of themselves driving the stolen vehicle and bragging, “I told you we was gone get one… we got one.”

    Just five days later on May 29, the duo called another Uber to pick them up near Franklin Road, this time targeting a luxury vehicle so they could sell the stolen vehicle for profit. Once they reached their drop off location, they held the female driver at gunpoint and ordered her to get out of her Mercedes GLA. She did not immediately comply, and during the ensuing struggle Hoskins fired his weapon. The victim suffered a gunshot wound to the shoulder and received treatment at a local hospital.

    “Uber drivers frequently work alone during late hours, putting their safety at risk just to earn a living. The defendants exploited this vulnerability, leaving both victims deeply traumatized and showing no signs of remorse. Instead, they became emboldened—committing additional crimes and boasting about their actions,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Gig workers have the right to feel safe, especially as they provide vital transportation services. Our office remains committed to working with federal and local partners to ensure that violent offenders are held accountable for their reckless actions.”

    “No one should fear becoming a victim of violence simply while driving their car in an effort to support themselves,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “This sentence sends a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will pursue violent offenders relentlessly and work tirelessly to restore a sense of safety and justice to our neighborhoods.”

    FBI and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey L. Massa and Jeremy C. Fugate, who prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: 29/2025・Trifork Group: Reporting of transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 29 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 20 May 2025

    Reporting of transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities

    Pursuant to the Market Abuse Regulation Article 19, Trifork Group AG (Swiss company registration number CHE-474.101.854) (“Trifork”) hereby notifies receipt of information of the following transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities in Trifork or by persons associated with them.

    1. Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities/person closely associated
    a) Name Ferd AS
    2. Reason for the notification
    a) Position/status Ferd AS is represented on the Board of Directors of Trifork Group AG by Erik Theodor Jakobsen
    b) Initial notification/
    Amendment    		 Initial notification
    3. Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor
    a) Name Trifork Group AG
    b) LEI 8945004BYZKXPESTBL36
    4.1 Details of the transaction(s)
    a) Description of the financial instrument, type of instrument

    Identification code

    		 Shares

    ISIN CH1111227810
    b) Nature of the transaction Acquisition
    c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s)
    DKK 90.00 160,000
    d) Aggregated information
    —
    Aggregated volume —
    Price    		 Total volume: 160,000

    Total price: DKK 90.00

    Total value: DKK 14,400,000
    e) Date of the transaction 20 May 2025
    f) Place of the transaction Nasdaq Copenhagen (XCSE)
    1. Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities/person closely associated
    a) Name Jørn Larsen
    2. Reason for the notification
    a) Position/status CEO
    b) Initial notification/
    Amendment    		 Initial notification
    3. Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor
    a) Name Trifork Group AG
    b) LEI 8945004BYZKXPESTBL36
    4.1 Details of the transaction(s)
    a) Description of the financial instrument, type of instrument

    Identification code

    		 Shares

    ISIN CH1111227810
    b) Nature of the transaction Sale
    c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s)
    DKK 90.00 160,000
    d) Aggregated information
    —
    Aggregated volume —
    Price    		 Total volume: 160,000

    Total price: DKK 90.00

    Total value: DKK 14,400,000
    e) Date of the transaction 20 May 2025
    f) Place of the transaction Nasdaq Copenhagen (XCSE)

    Investor and media contact
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director, frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17

    About Trifork
    Trifork is a pioneering and global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative digital solutions. With 1,215 professionals across 71 business units in 16 countries, Trifork specializes in designing, building, and operating advanced software across sectors such as public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. The Group’s R&D arm, Trifork Labs, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic, high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is publicly listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kaanch Network Surpasses $1.12M in Presale as RWA Tokenization Heats Up Ahead of Exchange Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As real-world asset (RWA) tokenization gains momentum across global markets, Kaanch Network is capturing investor attention with a presale that has already raised over $1.12 million. Now in Stage 5, Kaanch is offering tokens at $0.16 — marking one of the final opportunities for early participants before its upcoming centralized exchange (CEX) listing.

    With institutions, governments, and enterprises racing to digitize real-world assets such as real estate, bonds, certificates, and credentials, blockchain infrastructure is under pressure to evolve. Purpose-built for this shift, Kaanch Network stands out as a next-generation Layer 1 blockchain designed to meet the legal, technical, and compliance requirements of large-scale RWA adoption.

    Why RWA Tokenization Needs Purpose-Built Infrastructure

    Tokenizing real-world assets isn’t just about issuing tokens — it requires:

    • Compliance-ready smart contracts
    • Final, traceable, real-time settlement
    • Low transaction fees for scalable use
    • Built-in decentralized identity layers
    • Cross-chain interoperability
    • DAO-based governance mechanisms

    Kaanch Network delivers on all fronts — setting the stage for seamless tokenization of both physical and financial assets.

    Kaanch Network: Ready for Real-World Scale

    Key infrastructure highlights include:

    • 1.4 Million TPS – High throughput for real-time issuance, trading, and workflows
    • 0.8-Second Finality – Instant settlement for asset transfers and financial operations
    • 3600 Validators – Deep decentralization ensures resilience and trust
    • .knch Domains – Native decentralized identity for agents, wallets, and registries
    • RWA Framework – Built-in standards for tokenizing real estate, bonds, certifications, and more
    • Interoperability Bridges – Seamless asset flows with Ethereum, Solana, and BNB
    • DAO Governance – Token holders vote on upgrades, funding, and proposals
    • Live Staking – Up to 119% APY for early supporters and stakers

    Final Presale Rounds Before Listing

    The Kaanch token ($KNCH) has entered Stage 5 of its presale at $0.16, with limited availability before the project officially hits exchanges. The presale offers an early entry point into one of the few Layer 1 platforms specifically engineered for the RWA era.

    “With over $1.12M raised and infrastructure built for institutional-grade asset tokenization, we believe Kaanch is one of the most strategically positioned blockchains heading into the next wave of adoption,” said a spokesperson for Kaanch Network.

    Presale access is currently open via the official portal: https://presale.kaanch.com

    As global financial systems begin integrating blockchain into core asset management, the demand for compliant, high-performance infrastructure is set to soar. With a real-world-ready framework and growing momentum, Kaanch Network aims to be at the center of this transformation.

    Contact:
    Ved Singh
    info@kaanch.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Kaanch Network. 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.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BloFin CEO Unveils Roadmap for a Future of Global Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    “We’re not building just an exchange. We’re building infrastructure for the free movement of value.”
    “Stablecoins aren’t a product innovation—they’re a redefinition of who gets access to financial power.”

    – By Matt, CEO of BloFin

    ROAD TOWN, Virgin Islands, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matt, CEO of BloFin, has released a forward-looking statement outlining the company’s long-term vision for the evolution of global finance—one driven by stablecoin infrastructure, seamless trading and payments, and inclusive access to capital. Positioned at the intersection of fintech and Web3, BloFin aims to build the foundational infrastructure for a borderless financial system, enabling users worldwide to hold, earn, swap, and spend digital assets with the same simplicity and security as traditional money.

    When the internet first arrived, it democratized access to information. Blogs replaced newspapers. Social media replaced TV. Search and discovery replaced gatekeepers.

    Now, we’re witnessing the next wave of decentralization—not of information, but of value.

    Stablecoins are turning the US dollar into an internet-native asset. What used to be gated by banks, borders, and bureaucracy is now becoming programmable, portable, and universally accessible.

    Asset tokenization, meanwhile, is doing to capital markets what MP3s did to the music industry—unlocking accessibility, liquidity, and user ownership.

    This isn’t about crypto hype. It’s about financial experience catching up with digital expectations.

    Trading and Payments Are Merging

    Historically, trading and payments were separate industries. One was speculative, the other transactional.

    That wall is falling.

    Today, users don’t want to think about “investment” vs. “remittance” vs. “yield” vs. “purchase.” They want seamless flows:

    • Hold stablecoins
    • Earn yield
    • Swap into assets
    • Send money abroad
    • Pay with a tap

    In the background: liquidity, risk, custody, and compliance. But to the user—it just works.

    The future of trading and payments is not about interfaces. It’s about infrastructure that makes the experience invisible.

    What Infrastructure Must Look Like in the Next 10 Years

    To serve this shift, we believe the next-generation platforms must be:

    • Stablecoin-native, not bank-native
    • Cross-border by design, not by exception
    • Compliant, modular, and transparent, without sacrificing speed or usability
    • Open to both traditional and decentralized assets, with unified user experience

    This is not about replacing banks or regulators. It’s about building something parallel, efficient, and trustworthy.

    Five Systems We Need to Build as an Industry

    Over the next decade, the most important evolution in crypto won’t be the next memecoin.

    It will be whether we can build:

    1. Global, high-trust trading platforms rooted in stablecoin rails
    2. Borderless financial accounts (wallets + custodial layers) that scale safely
    3. Unified payment and settlement networks that work across fiat and crypto
    4. Stablecoin ecosystems that support real-world use: payrolls, invoices, trade
    5. Crypto-native banking infrastructure with savings, credit, and asset management

    These aren’t buzzwords. They’re necessities—especially for users in markets where the traditional financial system has left them behind.

    Principles That Matter in a Fragmented World

    This industry is still young. And while some players chase short-term profit, others are working to lay down something more lasting.

    For anyone building:

    • Compliance isn’t a constraint—it’s a moat.
    • User trust is everything. Don’t trade against them, freeze them, or exploit them.
    • Culture isn’t perks—it’s what your team tolerates under pressure.
    • Systems > slogans. Execution > announcements.

    In an increasingly fragmented, regulated, and uncertain environment, long-term trust is the rarest asset.

    A Final Thought

    Crypto started with the idea of freedom. But freedom without function leads nowhere.

    What we need now is function that delivers freedom:

    • The freedom to trade without friction.
    • The freedom to earn, send, and save without permission.
    • The freedom to hold value in a system that doesn’t collapse when borders close.

    That’s the system we want to build.

    And if you’re building it too—we’re already on the same team.

    — By Matt, CEO of BloFin

    About BloFin

    ​BloFin is a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange that specializes in futures trading. The platform offers 480+ USDT-M perpetual pairs, spot trading, copy trading, API access, unified account management, and advanced sub-account solutions. Committed to security and compliance, BloFin integrates Fireblocks and Chainalysis to ensure robust asset protection. By partnering with top affiliates, BloFin delivers scalable trading solutions, efficient fund management, and enhanced flexibility for professional traders. ​As the constant sponsor of TOKEN2049, BloFin continues to expand its global presence, reinforcing its position as the place “WHERE WHALES ARE MADE.” For more information, visit BloFin’s official website at https://www.blofin.com.

    Contact:
    Annio W.
    annio@blofin.io

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Blofin. 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.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4e9804d7-7a02-4494-bf8a-74b7ca659d20

    The MIL Network –