NewzIntel.com

Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-Evening Report: Sky TV to buy channel Three owner Discovery NZ for $1

    By Anan Zaki, RNZ News business reporter

    Sky TV has agreed to fully acquire TV3 owner Discovery New Zealand for $1.

    Discovery NZ is a part of US media giant Warner Bros Discovery, and operates channel Three and online streaming platform ThreeNow.

    NZX-listed Sky said the deal would be completed on a cash-free, debt-free basis, with completion expected on August 1.

    Sky expected the deal to deliver revenue diversification and uplift of around $95 million a year.

    Sky expected Discovery NZ’s operations to deliver sustainable underlying earnings growth of at least $10 million from the 2028 financial year.

    Sky chief executive Sophie Moloney said it was a compelling opportunity for the company, with net integration costs of about $6.5 million.

    “This is a compelling opportunity for Sky that directly supports our ambition to be Aotearoa New Zealand’s most engaging and essential media company,” she said.

    Confidential advance notice
    Sky said it gave the Commerce Commission confidential advance notice of the transaction, and the commission did not intend to consider the acquisition further.

    Warner Bros Discovery Australia and NZ managing director Michael Brooks said it was a “fantastic outcome” for both companies.

    “The continued challenges faced by the New Zealand media industry are well documented, and over the past 12 months, the Discovery NZ team has worked to deliver a new, more sustainable business model following a significant restructure in 2024,” Brooks said.

    “While this business is not commercially viable as a standalone asset in WBD’s New Zealand portfolio, we see the value Three and ThreeNow can bring to Sky’s existing offering of complementary assets.”

    Sky said on completion, Discovery NZ’s balance sheet would be clear of some long-term obligations, including property leases and content commitments, and would include assets such as the ThreeNow platform.

    Sky said irrespective of the transaction, the company was confident of achieving its 30 cents a share dividend target for 2026.

    ‘Massive change’ for NZ media – ThreeNews to continue
     Founder of The Spinoff and media commentator Duncan Greive said the deal would give Sky more reach and was a “massive change” in New Zealand’s media landscape.

    He noted Sky’s existing free-to-air presence via Sky Open (formerly Prime), but said acquiring Three gave it the second-most popular audience outlet on TV.

    “Because of the inertia of how people use television, Three is just a much more accessible channel and one that’s been around longer,” Greive said.

    “To have basically the second-most popular channel in the country as part of their stable just means they’ve got a lot more ad inventory, much bigger audiences.”

    It also gave Sky another outlet for their content, and would allow it to compete further against TVNZ, both linear and online, Greive said.

    He said there may be a question mark around the long-term future of Three’s news service, which was produced by Stuff.

    No reference to ThreeNews
    Sky made no reference to ThreeNews in its announcement. However, Stuff confirmed ThreeNews would continue for now.

    “Stuff’s delivery of ThreeNews is part of the deal but there are also now lots of new opportunities ahead that we are excited to explore together,” Stuff owner Sinead Boucher said in a statement.

    On the deal itself, Boucher said she was “delighted” to see Three back in New Zealand ownership under Sky.

    “And who doesn’t love a $1 deal!” Boucher said, referring to her own $1 deal to buy Stuff from Australia’s Nine Entertainment in 2020.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Are screenwriters paid for a product or a service? The definition matters for their workplace rights

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kim Goodwin, Lecturer in Arts Management and Human Resources, The University of Melbourne

    Vitaly Gariev/Unsplash

    The film and television sector in Australia employs over 26,000 workers and generated more than A$4.5 billion in income in 2021–22. TV dramas generate a large part of this revenue.

    Australian screen workers, including screenwriters, have traditionally been classified by productions as freelancers or contractors. In many cases, this means they have not been paid entitlements most other workers in Australia have access to.

    A December ruling by the Australian Taxation Office defined many Australian screenwriters as employees, and therefore they should be paid superannuation. Now, the Australian Writers Guild and Screen Producers Australia are each “seeking legal advice” on what this ruling could mean for scriptwriters and Australia’s screen sector.

    Mandated superannuation

    The superannuation guarantee mandates employers make superannuation contributions for eligible employees in line with the minimum contribution rate (now 12%).

    Historically, scriptwriters, like other arts workers, have been mainly engaged as freelancers, not employees. This means they are not always paid superannuation and other legal entitlements that come from being an employee.

    But a December 2024 tax office ruling specifically defined many screen workers as employees.

    This ruling advises that someone who sells an existing script (such as someone who wrote a film at their own initiative, and then sold the script to a producer) is not an employee, but “selling property”. These writers are not eligible for super payments.

    But the ruling found people who are regularly working scriptwriters (such as those working in a writers’ room for a TV series) may be legally considered employees, and are eligible for payments and protections offered to employees.

    Screen Producers Australia sees things differently. Information provided to their members argues scriptwriters are paid for the intellectual property rights associated with their product – meaning they are selling property.

    Opposing this, the Australian Writers Guild argue scriptwriters on long-running TV programs or in writers’ rooms are performing services and are employees of the production companies.

    If the screen production companies do not fall in line with the tax office ruling, the Australian Writers Guild have not ruled out undertaking legal action through a class action suit, or a strike.

    As the guild is not a union, they cannot undertake protected industrial action. But the guild could encourage a “wildcat strike”: a spontaneous work stoppage without union leadership. They recognise, however, this would have the impact on member livelihoods.

    What does this mean for scriptwriters?

    The ruling from the tax office outlines how it would apply the legislation, but it has not yet been tested legally. If the ruling is tested legally – by, say, legal action from scriptwriters seeking superannuation payments – and scriptwriters are found to be employees, it could greatly affect their work and pay.

    Not only could this lead to mandated superannuation contributions, but access to other entitlements such as parental leave, holiday pay and redundancy provisions.

    Australian artists earn on average 26% below the workforce norm, with incomes decreasing in real terms.

    Working conditions for Australians in the screen industries are difficult. Those working in the sector suffer from high levels of burnout and face systemic barriers when not white, male and able-bodied.

    Scriptwriters in Australia often struggle to achieve sustainable careers.
    Aman Upadhyay/Unsplash

    Scriptwriters in Australia often struggle to achieve sustainable careers. Scriptwriting fees often don’t fully cover the research and writing involved in script development, and the rise of streaming services has seen residuals – money made from licence fees of past work – all but disappear.

    Secure work in writers’ rooms for television series is also diminishing as these shrink in both team size and duration, limiting opportunities for emerging writers.

    Freelance scriptwriters may lack basic worker rights like minimum wage, job security, union bargaining and workers’ compensation insurance.

    For those lucky enough to secure work, superannuation and other entitlements can be negotiated into individual contracts. Until now, this has relied on individuals having the power and ability to engage in contract negotiation.

    Creative Workplaces – the division of Creative Australia formed in 2023 to address issues of pay, safety and welfare across the arts – recently launched a website. It offers industrial resources for arts organisations and workers to understand their rights and obligations.

    This is an important tool for all in the creative industries to ensure they receive the minimums under the law. But it is not a regulatory body. The onus is on organisations and workers to put into practice the relevant contracts and employment relationships.

    As the writers guild argues, it should not be up to individual workers to negotiate for basic worker entitlements. The recent tax office ruling, they say, means entitlements should include superannuation for many scriptwriters.

    A sustainable screen career

    As with other workplace issues impacting artists in recent years, scriptwriters deserve basic legal protections. They also deserve the safety and security that comes from being recognised as employees.

    TV drama provides a valuable training ground for Australian creatives. Fostering talent includes the creation of liveable working conditions.

    Initiatives such as Creative Workplaces can provide information, but leaders within creative organisations, production companies and other decision makers must act.

    Producers may choose now to pay super, in line with the tax office ruling, or they may wait for legal precedent to be set. And while they must adhere to legal minimums, production companies must also consider whether those working with them can earn a sustainable living on these minimums, or if they should offer better employment terms.

    If we want a future for screen stories in Australia, support for those working in the sector to build an enduring career is essential.

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

    – ref. Are screenwriters paid for a product or a service? The definition matters for their workplace rights – https://theconversation.com/are-screenwriters-paid-for-a-product-or-a-service-the-definition-matters-for-their-workplace-rights-261463

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Peters fails again – time for real action on Occupied Gaza – PSNA

    Source:  Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

     

    The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa says New Zealand’s signature on a joint statement of 25 countries on Gaza is meaningless without concrete action.

     

    PSNA Co-Chair John Minto says Peters’ statements in the media this morning, fall well short of the condemnation in the joint statement, and are what Minto calls the usual ducking the issue of Israeli culpability.

     

    “Peters still can’t bring himself to criticise Israel in Gaza – even after 21 months of mass killing and mass starvation of Palestinians.  He condemns a suffering situation, but carefully avoids stating who it causing it.”

     

    Minto says there is an extensive list of actions the government must take if it’s serious.

     

    “I’m sure the Israeli ambassador in Wellington is happily reporting to his ministry in Tel Aviv that the New Zealand government is still tolerating mass starvation, bombing civilians and ethnic cleansing.” Minto says.

     

    “If the New Zealand government was serious, it would implement this list”:

     

    1.       Back the call from UN Special Rapporteur for the OPT, Francesca Albanese, for military protection for aid convoys to enter Gaza.

    2.       Close the Israeli embassy in Wellington

    3.       End trade and investment ties with Israel

    1. Deny entry visas for all Israeli Defence Forces personnel

    5.       Introduce legislation to sanction Israel the same as the Russia Sanctions Act

    6.       Cease approval for Rakon to export crystal oscillators which may be used by the Israeli military for targeting Gaza and other Israeli assault zones

    7.       Ban all Rocket Lab launches of satellites used for Israeli reconnaissance over Gaza

    8.       Suspend all bilateral agreements with Israel; movie co-production, overflight agreement and technological cooperation

    9.       Stop remittances going to Israel, such as funds for the racist Jewish National Fund

    10.   Cut scientific, academic, sport and cultural ties with the State of Israel

    11.   Sell all New Zealand’s Superfund investments in Israeli companies

    12.   Vote to suspend Israeli membership of the United Nations for not withdrawing from all the Occupied Palestinian Territory

    13.   Cease approving Israeli munitions transporter ZIM Shipping using our ports

    14.   Join the case against Israeli genocide in the International Court of Justice

    15.   Sign onto the Hague Group of countries working to ensure Israel complies with International Law  https://thehaguegroup.org/home/

     

     

    John Minto

    Co-Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: [Unboxing] Galaxy Z Fold7: Powerful Versatility in the Thinnest, Lightest Z Fold Yet

    Source: Samsung

    It’s finally here — the thinnest and lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet.
     
    Equipped with multimodal AI and a foldable-optimized UI, the Galaxy Z Fold7 delivers a truly Ultra experience that raises the bar for smartphones.
     
    Samsung Newsroom unboxed the Galaxy Z Fold7 for Galaxy fans eager to see all the exciting improvements and advanced capabilities that the new device brings.
     
     
    First Impressions
    
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7
     
    Upon opening the sleek, black packaging, Galaxy’s signature modern design, slim silhouette, and remarkably light build are all immediately apparent.
     
    
    ▲ The rear of the Galaxy Z Fold7 from different angles
     
    The signature color Blue Shadow shifts with an iridescent glow from deep navy to bright blue as the device’s metallic finish reflects light from different angles, perfectly capturing Galaxy’s futuristic, premium aesthetic.
     
    The Galaxy Z Fold7 is available in three colors: the signature Blue Shadow, the modern Silver Shadow, and the ever-popular Jetblack — with Mint also available as a Samsung.com exclusive.1
     
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7’s rear triple camera
     
    The camera island surrounding the rear triple camera matches the body color of the device for a seamless, cohesive design.
     

     
    For the first time in the series, the Galaxy Z Fold7 features a 200MP wide-angle camera, allowing users to capture every moment in stunning detail. It also comes equipped with enhanced night photography and videography capabilities, along with a 100-degree main display front camera, to bring an Ultra camera experience to the foldable form factor.
     
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7’s packaging and its contents
     
     
    Thinner Than Ever
    The Galaxy Z Fold7 is the thinnest device in the series to date, representing the culmination of years of hardware innovation. From design to material selection, every effort was made to shave off even a single millimeter — and this can be appreciated the moment the device is picked up for the first time.
     
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7 is easier than ever to grasp in the hand.
     
    As the latest evolution in the Z Fold series, the Galaxy Z Fold7 now fits even more comfortably in one hand, making it easier to carry.
     
    ▲The Galaxy Z Fold7 is only 8.9mm thick when folded, which is comparable to a chocolate wafer bar.
     
    When folded,2 it measures just 8.9mm — comparable to a chocolate wafer bar.
     
    When unfolded, it’s only 4.2mm, which is slimmer than two slices of cheese stacked together
     
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7 is only 4.2mm thick when unfolded, which is thinner than two slices of cheese stacked together.
     
     
    Familiar Comfort When Folded, Expansive View When Unfolded
    The cover display now features a wider 21:9 aspect ratio, bringing the familiar proportions of a bar-type smartphone to a foldable device. Thanks to this, the Galaxy Z Fold7 offers a user experience similar to that of a Galaxy S25 Ultra device when folded.
     

     
    At 6.5 inches, the cover display also allows for more accurate typing and a wider view of content when sending quick messages or searching for information — a subtle yet impactful improvement over the slightly narrower screen of the Galaxy Z Fold6.
     
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7’s larger cover display makes it easier to type when the device is folded.
     
    The Galaxy Z Fold7 is actually lighter than many bar-type smartphones. At just 215g, it is even lighter than the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s 218g, which takes foldable usability to a whole new level.3
     
    ▲ (From left) A weight comparison between the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the Galaxy Z Fold7
     
    So, when folded, the device offers the intuitive feel of a bar-type smartphone — and when unfolded, it delivers the largest, most immersive display of any Galaxy smartphone out there. The result is an experience unique to the Galaxy Z Fold7.
     
    
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7’s expansive main display is ideal for immersive gaming and content viewing. (* To listen to the audio, click the speaker button at the bottom of the video.)
     
     
    Multimodal AI Meets Foldable Innovation
    The Galaxy Z Fold7 is one of the first Samsung devices to bring One UI 8 on Android 16 offering a more accessible way to experience multimodal AI in everyday life. For example, with a long press of the side button, users can instantly activate Gemini Live, the on-device AI agent, and effortlessly share what’s on their screen or in front of their camera in real time.
     
    The large main display expands the AI agent’s understanding of complex situations. It can interpret multiple apps on the Multi Window layout simultaneously to make conversations more intuitive and helpful.
     
    
    ▲ Screen sharing with Gemini Live (* To listen to the audio, click the speaker button at the bottom of the video)
     
    For example, if someone is trying to pick the perfect Galaxy Z Fold7 color to match their favorite purse, they can open the Gallery app on the left window to display a photo of the purse, and open the browser on the right window to display the Z Fold7’s color options. After that, all they need to do is press and hold the side button to activate Gemini Live, tap “Share screen with Live” and ask whether their purse would go well with the color they have in mind.
     
    The AI agent will then analyze both screens at once and let them know whether that color and the purse pair nicely. Even when the device is folded, users can still ask the AI agent questions and receive real-time answers.
     
    
    ▲ Camera sharing with Gemini Live (* To listen to the audio, click the speaker button at the bottom of the video)
     
    Let’s say a user wants to know which batteries their TV remote requires — they can just share their camera with Gemini Live by directing the camera at the remote and ask away. Galaxy AI will recognize the model and instantly tell you which battery type it needs.
     
    With a simple voice command, they can also save information on the nearest stores that sell them to Samsung Notes and even set a reminder to buy the batteries after work — all without typing anything.
     
    
    ▲ The Galaxy Z Fold7 can display AI-generated answers in pop-up or split screen view, keeping multitasking fluid and uninterrupted.
     
    The Galaxy Z Fold7’s AI-powered features go beyond live assistance. When browsing the web, users can request information from Galaxy AI without breaking rhythm and losing focus of the content in front of them. Responses will appear in pop-ups or split view, keeping multitasking smooth and uninterrupted.
     
    Thinner, smarter and more powerful than ever, Galaxy Z Fold7 makes a bold first impression — a next-generation device ushering in the era of the Ultra foldable, poised to redefine the future of mobile innovation.
     
     
    1 Color availability may vary depending on country or carrier.
    2 Folded thickness measured from the cover display to the rear glass.
    3 Weight may vary by country or carrier.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: Buryatia on “Far East Street” will tell about the sacred lake

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Republic of Buryatia will traditionally take part in the exhibition “Far East Street”, which will be held from September 3 to 9 as part of the tenth, anniversary Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. This year, the region’s exposition is called “Baikal. Buryatia. Code of the Future”. The organizer of the exhibition is the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Far Eastern Federal District.

    “Baikal is a unique place of power, it is not for nothing that it is called the sacred sea. It is a calling card not only of Buryatia, but of our entire country. It is a national and world treasure. But it is not only the natural beauty that attracts people to Buryatia. Those who come to the republic know the unique culture and traditions of the region. Thanks to the program of renovation of Far Eastern cities, the appearance of Ulan-Ude and Severobaikalsk is changing, the quality of life of people is improving. New enterprises are opening in the republic, highly qualified jobs are being created. Participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum will be able to learn about what Buryatia is famous for,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum Yuri Trutnev.

    The goal of the Buryatia pavilion is to show the potential for the development of environmentally sustainable tourism, digitalization and the introduction of advanced technologies in the region. The space will feature virtual tours, master classes and other events.

    The republic’s exposition will be presented by two pavilions. There will also be an outdoor exhibition area and a site for master classes. A new space will appear – a spiritual cleansing zone. A Buryat yurt will be installed, inside which a center of oriental medicine will be located – traditional methods of treatment will be presented. In addition, visitors to the exhibition will be able to compete in national sports and take part in the games of the peoples of Buryatia. A separate space will be opened demonstrating the region’s contribution to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for a special military operation.

    “Between the main pavilion, where the republic’s tourism and investment activities will be presented, and the yurt, there will be an installation imitating a corridor with tied hii morin, and a khurde drum will also be installed. A new cultural program has also been developed, it will be called “My Buryatia” and will introduce the guests of the EEF to the multifaceted culture of our amazing republic. Two of our famous groups will present their colorful numbers – the Buryat National Song and Dance Theater “Baikal” and the Municipal Theater of Folk Music and Dance “Zabava”, – noted the head of the Republic of Buryatia Alexey Tsydenov.

    In the Tourism zone of the main pavilion, visitors will be able to view virtual tours, take part in interactive games, and complete the Feel Buryatia quest. The site will emphasize the importance of preserving the unique ecosystem of Lake Baikal and demonstrate initiatives in ecotourism and biodiversity conservation. The space will feature travel companies and guides from Buryatia, who will introduce visitors to the stand to the region’s tourism opportunities.

    In the “Live in the Far East! – Live on Baikal!” zone, visitors to the exhibition will be able to obtain information about the “Far Eastern hectare” and other initiatives. Multimedia screens will present investment projects of the region, including ongoing and promising proposals in the field of tourism, subsoil use and public-private partnership. Key initiatives and opportunities for cooperation within the framework of master plans and integrated development of territories will also be shown.

    Innovative technologies and digital solutions will be presented in the “Code of the Future” zone. The space will demonstrate the integration of modern technologies into the development of the region. The exhibition will include innovative projects in the field of biotechnology, processing of medicinal herbs and digital solutions for the management of natural resources and tourism infrastructure.

    In addition, the second pavilion of the regional exposition will house a gallery of artisans with a variety of folk art and crafts, as well as factories and plants producing ethnic-style products with the theme of Lake Baikal from natural materials. The tasting area will introduce guests to the variety of flavors of locally produced products. A presentation of goods made by local manufacturers and presented on popular marketplaces is also expected.

    The exhibition “Made in Buryatia” will be significantly expanded. And on the second floor of the regional pavilion there will be an art gallery organized by the National Museum of the Republic of Buryatia.

    In the outdoor part of the exhibition, the flagship of the republic’s industry, the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, will present a model of the Ka-226T helicopter. Also planned on the site are performances by artists of the Baikal Song and Dance Theatre, the musical project “That’s How Buryatia Sounds” and the ethno group “Daida”. In addition, the national orchestra will introduce guests of the pavilion to the music of nomads and the endless picturesque Buryat steppes, and artists of the Zabava Theatre will introduce them to the traditions of the Transbaikal Cossacks.

    The 10th Eastern Economic Forum will be held on September 3–6 at the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. During these days, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7, 8, and 9, it will be open to everyone. The EEF is organized by the Roscongress Foundation.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: International Trade Commission Delivers Win for Domestic LSPTV Industry

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA-12)

    On Friday, the International Trade Commission (ITC) made an affirmative final determination in the antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations on low-speed personal transportation vehicles (LSPTVs) from China. Upon the announcement, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the following statement:

    “I applaud this ruling from the ITC to impose strict antidumping duties and enforce our trade remedy laws. China’s adversarial and unfair trade practices have harmed domestic manufacturers like Club Car and E-Z-GO for far too long. Alarmingly, it has taken China less than four years to completely upend the American LSPTV market.

    “However, with this ruling, domestic LSPTV producers can now rely on a level playing field—where they can out-innovate and out-compete anyone in the world. Over the last year, I have proudly led a bipartisan and bicameral effort to bring more attention to this issue, and I thank the ITC for delivering this win and standing with American manufacturers,” said Congressman Rick Allen.

    “This final determination from the U.S. International Trade Commission is a clear win for fair competition and the thousands of American jobs that power our industry,” said Craig Scanlon, President and CEO of Club Car. “It allows us to stay focused on what matters most — our customers — and continue delivering the high-quality, reliable vehicles and exceptional experience that have defined Club Car for decades. We are proud to engineer, build, and support our products right here in the U.S., and we appreciate the Commission and its staff for their thorough work in reaching this important decision. We are also especially grateful to Congressman Rick Allen for his leadership and advocacy throughout this process.”

    “We are thankful for Congressman Allen’s support of our industry, and his testimony before the International Trade Commission about the impacts of the unfair trade practices of Chinese importers on our employees and our community,” said Rob Scholl, President and CEO of Textron Specialized Vehicles. “This determination will help to protect the health of a uniquely American industry that employs thousands of hardworking residents of the 12th Congressional District, who build products that represent Augusta and Georgia around the world.”

    TIMELINE

    June 28, 2024: Congressman Allen sends letter to then-Ambassador Katherine Tai with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) – urging Ambassador Tai to include vehicles such as golf carts, Personal Transportation Vehicles (PTVs), and Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) in the definition of “electric vehicle” as it relates to forthcoming tariffs on Chinese subsidized imports.

    November 21, 2024: Congressman Allen sends a bipartisan, bicameral letter to then-Secretary Gina Raimondo – urging Secretary Raimondo to side with U.S. producers in the antidumping and countervailing duty cases filed by the U.S. LSPTV industry.

    January 27, 2025: The U.S. Department of Commerce announces its preliminary finding that Chinese producers have sold low-speed personal transportation vehicles (LSPTVs) into the United States at less than fair value, violating U.S. international trade laws. In response, Commerce calculated affirmative antidumping duties ranging from 127.35% to 478.09%.

    June 3, 2025: Congressman Allen sends a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick notifying his office of efforts by Chinese LSPTV producers to avoid paying duties and to circumvent and evade U.S. trade measures, urging his department to take all steps necessary to ensure that Chinese producers do not continue to erode U.S. trade measures.

    June 6, 2025: Congressman Allen sends a bipartisan, bicameral letter to International Trade Commission (ITC) Chair Amy Karpel expressing support for the American low speed personal transportation vehicle (LSPTV) producers who have faced a surge of unfairly traded imports from China, and urging the ITC to carefully and fully consider the arguments raised by the U.S. industry throughout the ITC investigation.

    June 13, 2025: Congressman Allen testifies before the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) to urge the Commissioners to take immediate action and hold China accountable for unfair trade practices that are harming U.S. producers in the Low Speed Personal Transportation Vehicles (LSPTV) industry.

    BACKGROUND: Last month, the U.S. Department of Commerce concluded that low-speed personal transportation vehicles (LSPTVs) imported from China were being sold at unfairly low prices and subsidized, leading to the issuance of antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders. Following the U.S. International Trade Commission’s recent ruling, these imports will face antidumping duties ranging from 119% to 478% and countervailing duties between 31% and 679%. The Commission also identified critical circumstances in its AD and CVD investigations, meaning importers will face retroactive duties based on Commerce’s preliminary rates, applicable to entries up to 90 days prior to those determinations.

     These AD/CVD orders will remain in place for at least five years, with the possibility of future increases in duty rates through annual administrative reviews. Moving forward, Congressman Allen plans to focus on ensuring compliance by monitoring for illegal practices such as tariff avoidance, absorption, indirect shipping, or circumvention by foreign producers and U.S. importers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Carolina Zoo Grieves Giraffe Leia

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: North Carolina Zoo Grieves Giraffe Leia

    North Carolina Zoo Grieves Giraffe Leia
    jejohnson6

    The North Carolina Zoo is grieving the loss of Leia, a 15-year-old giraffe, who has been a beloved part of the Zoo family since 2010. Grief counselors have been on site to support staff members during the grieving process. Leia’s death is especially raw as she passed away Tuesday, only a day after the Zoo’s long-time Director and CEO Pat Simmons.

    On the morning of her death, Leia underwent a planned medical procedure to address a foot injury. Medical staff expected Leia to make a full recovery before she experienced acute aspiration following the procedure. Aspiration is a recognized complication that can sometimes occur with the use of anesthesia in both humans and animals, and is generally considered the most common complication with giraffe surgical procedures. A necropsy, or animal autopsy, was performed on Leia and results confirmed aspiration as the official cause of death.

    Zoo team members, particularly the caretakers, the Zoo’s medical staff, entertainment staff and volunteers who formed a special bond with Leia over the years are heartbroken. The Zoo respectfully requests privacy and compassion for affected staff as they continue to mourn.

    “We are so grateful to the community and our loyal supporters for the outpouring of love during this incredibly challenging time,” says Deputy Director Diane Villa. “Your warmth and kind words are a comfort to us all as we navigate loss and begin our journey toward healing.”

    About the North Carolina Zoo  
    At the North Carolina Zoo, we celebrate nature. As the world’s largest natural habitat Zoo, we inspire a lifelong curiosity about animals in the hundreds of thousands of people who visit our Zoo each year. Our dedicated team of experts provides exceptional, compassionate care for the more than 1,700 animals and 52,000 plants that call our Park home. We also lead efforts locally and globally to protect wildlife and wild places because we believe nature’s diversity is critical for our collective future. The North Carolina Zoo invites all of our guests to witness the majesty of the wild in the heart of North Carolina and welcomes everyone to join in our mission to protect nature’s diversity. Visit NCZoo.org to begin your life-changing journey.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jul 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ArrowMark Financial Corp. Releases Month End Estimated Net Asset Value as of June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ArrowMark Financial Corp., (NASDAQ: BANX) (“ArrowMark Financial”), today announced that BANX’s estimated and unaudited Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as of June 30, 2025, was $22.22.

    This estimated NAV is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month ended June 30, 2025.

    About ArrowMark Financial Corp.
    ArrowMark Financial Corp. is an SEC registered non-diversified, closed-end fund listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BANX.” Its investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income. BANX pursues its objective by investing primarily in regulatory capital securities of financial institutions. BANX is managed by ArrowMark Asset Management, LLC. To learn more, visit ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com, or contact Destra at 877.855.3434 or by email at BANX@destracapital.com.

    Disclaimer and Risk Factors:
    There is no assurance that ArrowMark Financial will achieve its investment objective. ArrowMark Financial is subject to numerous risks, including investment and market risks, management risk, income and interest rate risks, banking industry risks, preferred stock risk, convertible securities risk, debt securities risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk, leverage risk, non-diversification risk, credit and counterparty risks, market at a discount from net asset value risk and market disruption risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) their net asset value. Shares of ArrowMark Financial may not be appropriate for all investors. Investors should review and consider carefully ArrowMark Financial’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

    The Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other regulatory filings of the Company with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the BANX’s website at ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com.

    Contact:
    BANX@destracapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ArrowMark Financial Corp. Releases Month End Estimated Net Asset Value as of June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ArrowMark Financial Corp., (NASDAQ: BANX) (“ArrowMark Financial”), today announced that BANX’s estimated and unaudited Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as of June 30, 2025, was $22.22.

    This estimated NAV is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month ended June 30, 2025.

    About ArrowMark Financial Corp.
    ArrowMark Financial Corp. is an SEC registered non-diversified, closed-end fund listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BANX.” Its investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income. BANX pursues its objective by investing primarily in regulatory capital securities of financial institutions. BANX is managed by ArrowMark Asset Management, LLC. To learn more, visit ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com, or contact Destra at 877.855.3434 or by email at BANX@destracapital.com.

    Disclaimer and Risk Factors:
    There is no assurance that ArrowMark Financial will achieve its investment objective. ArrowMark Financial is subject to numerous risks, including investment and market risks, management risk, income and interest rate risks, banking industry risks, preferred stock risk, convertible securities risk, debt securities risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk, leverage risk, non-diversification risk, credit and counterparty risks, market at a discount from net asset value risk and market disruption risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) their net asset value. Shares of ArrowMark Financial may not be appropriate for all investors. Investors should review and consider carefully ArrowMark Financial’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

    The Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other regulatory filings of the Company with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the BANX’s website at ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com.

    Contact:
    BANX@destracapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TLGY Acquisition Corp. Announces Rescheduling of Conference Call Relating to its Business Combination with StableCoinX Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York , July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TLGY Acquisition Corp. (OTC: TLGYF) (“TLGY”), a special purpose acquisition company, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement for a business combination with StablecoinX Assets Inc. (“SC Assets”), a newly-formed validator and infrastructure business supporting the Ethena ecosystem (the definitive agreement, the “Business Combination Agreement” and the transactions contemplated thereby, the “Transaction”). The combined company will be named StablecoinX Inc. (“StablecoinX” or the “Company”) and the parties will seek to have StablecoinX’s Class A common shares listed on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “USDE.”

    TLGY will discuss the proposed Transaction with securities analysts in a call tomorrow, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. ET. A webcast of the meeting will be available in a listen-only mode to individual investors, media, and other interested parties on TLGY’s website at www.tlgyacquisition.com under the “Events” section. This call has been rescheduled from the previously announced date and time.

    Important Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Transaction, StablecoinX intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”), which will include a preliminary proxy statement of TLGY and a preliminary prospectus of StablecoinX, and after the Registration Statement is declared effective, TLGY will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the Transaction to its shareholders as of the record date to be established for voting at the Extraordinary General Meeting. The Registration Statement, including the proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, will contain important information about the Transaction and the other matters to be voted upon at the Extraordinary General Meeting. This press release does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the Transaction and other matters and is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision in respect of such matters. TLGY and StablecoinX may also file other documents with the SEC regarding the Transaction. TLGY’s shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the Registration Statement, including the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, the amendments thereto and the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed in connection with the Transaction, as these materials will contain important information about TLGY, SC Assets, StablecoinX and the Transaction.

    TLGY’s shareholders and other interested persons will be able to obtain copies of the Registration Statement, including the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed or that will be filed by TLGY and StablecoinX with the SEC, free of charge, through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes certain statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Such forward-looking statements with respect to the proposed Transaction include expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions, plans, prospects, financial results or strategies regarding SC Assets, StablecoinX, TLGY and the proposed Transaction, statements regarding the anticipated benefits and timing of the completion of the proposed Transaction, the assets held by SC Assets and StablecoinX, the price and volatility of ENA, ENA’s growing prominence as an issuer of digital dollars on-chain, StablecoinX’s listing on any securities exchange, the macro, political and regulatory conditions surrounding ENA, the planned business strategy including StablecoinX’s ability to develop a corporate architecture capable of supporting its treasury initiatives and strategic stake in the Ethena Protocol, plans and use of proceeds, objectives of management for future operations of StablecoinX, the upside potential and opportunity for investors, StablecoinX’s plan for value creation and strategic advantages, market size and growth opportunities, regulatory conditions, technological and market trends, future financial condition and performance and expected financial impacts of the proposed Transaction, the satisfaction of closing conditions to the proposed Transaction and the level of redemptions of TLGY’s public shareholders, and StablecoinX’s expectations, intentions, strategies, assumptions or beliefs about future events, results of operations or performance or that do not solely relate to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including, but not limited to: the risk that the proposed Transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of TLGY’s securities; the risk that the proposed Transaction may not be completed by TLGY’s business combination deadline; the failure by the parties to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed Transaction, including the approval of TLGY’s shareholders and the listing of StablecoinX’s securities on a national securities exchange at closing; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Transaction; the level of redemptions by TLGY’s public shareholders, which may reduce the public float of, reduce the liquidity of the trading market of, and/or impact the ability of, the shares of Class A common stock of StablecoinX to be listed in connection with the proposed Transaction; the insufficiency of the third-party fairness opinion for the board of directors of TLGY in determining whether or not to pursue the proposed Transaction; the failure of StablecoinX to obtain or maintain the listing of its securities on any securities exchange after closing of the proposed Transaction; risks associated with TLGY, SC Assets and StablecoinX’s ability to consummate the proposed Transaction timely or at all, including in connection with potential regulatory delays or impediments, changes in ENA prices or for other reasons; costs related to the proposed Transaction and as a result of becoming a public company; changes in business, market, financial, political and regulatory conditions; risks relating to StablecoinX’s anticipated operations and business, including the volatile nature of the price of ENA; the risk that StablecoinX’s stock price will be highly correlated to the price of ENA and the price of ENA may decrease between the signing of the definitive documents for the proposed Transaction and the closing of the proposed Transaction or at any time after the closing of the proposed Transaction; risks associated with TLGY, SC Assets and StablecoinX’s ability to consummate the proposed Transaction timely or at all, including in connection with potential regulatory delays or impediments, changes in ENA prices or for other reasons; risks related to increased competition in the industries in which StablecoinX will operate; risks relating to significant legal, commercial, regulatory and technical uncertainty regarding ENA; risks relating to the treatment of crypto assets for U.S. and foreign tax purposes; risks that after consummation of the proposed Transaction, StablecoinX experiences difficulties managing its growth and expanding operations; the risks that launching and growing StablecoinX’s ENA treasury advisory and services in digital marketing and strategy could be difficult; challenges in implementing StablecoinX’s business plan, due to operational challenges, significant competition and regulation; being considered to be a “shell company” by any stock exchange on which StablecoinX’s Class A Common Stock will be listed or by the SEC, which may impact StablecoinX’s ability to list its securities and restrict reliance on certain rules or forms in connection with the offering, sale or resale of securities; the outcome of any potential legal proceedings that may be instituted against StablecoinX, SC Assets, TLGY or others following announcement of the proposed Transaction, and those risk factors discussed in documents that StablecoinX and/or TLGY has filed, or will file, with the SEC. The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of The Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q that have been and/or will be filed by TLGY with the SEC from time to time, the Registration Statement that will be filed by StablecoinX and TLGY and the proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, and other documents that have been or will be filed by TLGY and StablecoinX from time to time with the SEC. These filings do or will identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that neither TLGY, SC Assets nor StablecoinX presently know or that TLGY, SC Assets and StablecoinX currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and each of TLGY, SC Assets, and StablecoinX assume no obligation and do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither TLGY, SC Assets, nor StablecoinX gives any assurance that any of TLGY, SC Assets, or StablecoinX will achieve their respective expectations. The inclusion of any statement in this press release does not constitute an admission by TLGY, SC Assets or StablecoinX or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statement are material.

    The terms of the proposed Transaction described in this press release, including any dollar-denominated figures or implied valuations, are based on information as of the date of the signing of the definitive Business Combination Agreement and assume no redemptions from the TLGY trust account. These terms are subject to change, including as a result of fluctuations in the price of ENA prior to closing of the proposed Transaction. There can be no assurance that the final terms at the closing of the Transaction will reflect the figures referenced herein.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release does not constitute (i) a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Transaction or (ii) an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation to purchase, any securities of TLGY, SC Assets, the combined company or any of their respective affiliates. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act, or an exemption therefrom, nor shall any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction be affected. No securities commission or securities regulatory authority in the United States or any other jurisdiction has in any way passed upon the merits of the Transaction or the accuracy or adequacy of this communication.
    Participants in the Solicitation

    TLGY, SC Assets, StablecoinX and their respective directors and officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of TLGY’s shareholders in connection with the Transaction. More detailed information regarding the directors and officers of TLGY, and a description of their interests in TLGY, is contained in TLGY’s filings with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on March 5, 2025, and is available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of TLGY’s shareholders in connection with the Transaction and other matters to be voted upon at the Extraordinary General Meeting will be set forth in the Registration Statement for the Transaction when available.
    Media Contacts

    StablecoinX
    press@stablecoinx.com

    TLGY Acquisition Corp.
    media@tlgycpc.com

    Ethena Foundation
    nate.johnson@augustco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Yorkville Acquisition Corp. Announces the Separate Trading of its Class A Ordinary Shares and Warrants, Commencing on or about July 25, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mountainside, NJ, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Yorkville Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: YORKU) (the “Company”) announced that holders of the units sold in the Company’s initial public offering of 17,250,000 units, which includes 2,250,000 units issued pursuant to the exercise by the underwriters of their overallotment option, completed on June 30, 2025 (the “Offering”), may elect to separately trade the Class A ordinary shares and warrants included in the units commencing on or about July 25, 2025. Any units not separated will continue to trade on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “YORKU”, and each of the Class A ordinary shares and warrants will separately trade on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “YORK” and “YORKW,” respectively. Holders of units will need to have their brokers contact Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, the Company’s transfer agent, in order to separate the units into Class A ordinary shares and warrants.

    A registration statement relating to the securities was declared effective on June 26, 2025 in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the anticipated date that the Class A ordinary shares and warrants may begin to trade separately and the ability for those units not separated to continue to trade on Nasdaq. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based. No assurance can be given that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the registration statement and related prospectus filed in connection with the initial public offering with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    About Yorkville Acquisition Corp.

    The Company is a blank check company incorporated in the Cayman Islands as an exempted company incorporated for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company has not selected any specific business combination target and has not, nor has anyone on its behalf, engaged in any substantive discussions, directly or indirectly, with any business combination target with respect to an initial business combination. While the Company may pursue a business combination target in any business or industry, it intends to focus its search for businesses at the intersection of media, technology, and entertainment.

    Contact

    Yorkville Acquisition Corp.
    1012 Springfield Avenue
    Mountainside, New Jersey 07092 

    Kevin McGurn
    Chief Executive Officer
    Email: kjmcgurn@gmail.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: PBS and NPR are generally unbiased, independent of government propaganda and provide key benefits to US democracy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephanie A. (Sam) Martin, Frank and Bethine Church Endowed Chair of Public Affairs, Boise State University

    Congress’ cuts to public broadcasting will diminish the range and volume of the free press and the independent reporting it provides. MicroStockHub-iStock/Getty Images Plus

    Champions of the almost entirely party-line vote in the U.S. Senate to erase US$1.1 billion in already approved funds for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting called their action a refusal to subsidize liberal media.

    “Public broadcasting has long been overtaken by partisan activists,” said U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, insisting there is no need for government to fund what he regards as biased media. “If you want to watch the left-wing propaganda, turn on MSNBC,” Cruz said.

    Accusing the media of liberal bias has been a consistent conservative complaint since the civil rights era, when white Southerners insisted news outlets were slanting their stories against segregation. During his presidential campaign in 1964, U.S. Sen. Barry Goldwater of Arizona complained that the media was against him, an accusation that has been repeated by every Republican presidential candidate since.

    But those charges of bias rarely survive empirical scrutiny.

    As chair of a public policy institute devoted to strengthening deliberative democracy, I have written two books about the media and the presidency, and another about media ethics. My research traces how news institutions shape civic life and why healthy democracies rely on journalism that is independent of both market pressure and partisan talking points.

    That independence in the United States – enshrined in the press freedom clause of the First Amendment – gives journalists the ability to hold government accountable, expose abuses of power and thereby support democracy.

    GOP Sen. Ted Cruz speaks to reporters as Senate Republicans vote on President Donald Trump’s request to cancel about $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting spending on July 16, 2025.
    AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

    Trusting independence

    Ad Fontes Media, a self-described “public benefit company” whose mission is to rate media for credibility and bias, have placed the reporting of “PBS NewsHour” under 10 points left of the ideological center. They label it as both “reliable” and based in “analysis/fact.” “Fox and Friends,” by contrast, the popular morning show on Fox News, is nearly 20 points to the right. The scale starts at zero and runs 42 points to the left to measure progressive bias and 42 points to the right to measure conservative bias. Ratings are provided by three-person panels comprising left-, right- and center-leaning reviewers.

    A 2020 peer-reviewed study in Science Advances that tracked more than 6,000 political reporters likewise found “no evidence of liberal media bias” in the stories they chose to cover, even though most journalists are more left-leaning than the rest of the population.

    A similar 2016 study published in Public Opinion Quarterly said that media are more similar than dissimilar and, excepting political scandals, “major
    news organizations present topics in a largely nonpartisan manner,
    casting neither Democrats nor Republicans in a particularly favorable
    or unfavorable light    .”

    Surveys show public media’s audiences do not see it as biased. A national poll of likely voters released July 14, 2025, found that 53% of respondents trust public media to report news “fully, accurately and fairly,” while only 35% extend that trust to “the media in general.” A majority also opposed eliminating federal support.

    Contrast these numbers with attitudes about public broadcasters such as MTVA in Hungary or the TVP in Poland, where the state controls most content. Protests in Budapest October 2024 drew thousands demanding an end to “propaganda.” Oxford’s Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism reports that TVP is the least trusted news outlet in the country.

    While critics sometimes conflate American public broadcasting with state-run outlets, the structures are very different.

    Safeguards for editorial freedom

    In state-run media systems, a government agency hires editors, dictates coverage and provides full funding from the treasury. Public officials determine – or make up – what is newsworthy. Individual media operations survive only so long as the party in power is happy.

    Public broadcasting in the U.S. works in almost exactly the opposite way: The Corporation for Public Broadcasting is a private nonprofit with a statutory “firewall” that forbids political interference.

    More than 70% of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s federal appropriation for 2025 of US$1.1 billion flows through to roughly 1,500 independently governed local stations, most of which are NPR or PBS affiliates but some of which are unaffiliated community broadcasters. CPB headquarters retains only about 5% of that federal funding.

    Stations survive by combining this modest federal grant money with listener donations, underwriting and foundation support. That creates a diversified revenue mix that further safeguards their editorial freedom.

    And while stations share content, each also has latitude when it comes to programming and news coverage, especially at the local level.

    As a public-private partnership, individual communities mostly own the public broadcasting system and its affiliate stations. Congress allocates funds, while community nonprofits, university boards, state authorities or other local license holders actually own and run the stations. Individual monthly donors are often called “members” and sometimes have voting rights in station-governance matters. Membership contributions make up the largest share of revenue for most stations, providing another safeguard for editorial independence.

    A host and guest in July 2024 sit inside a recording studio at KMXT, the public radio station on Kodiak Island in Alaska.
    Nathaniel Herz/Northern Journal

    Broadly shared civic commons

    And then there are public media’s critical benefits to democracy itself.

    A 2021 report from the European Broadcasting Union links public broadcasting with higher voter turnout, better factual knowledge and lower susceptibility to extremist rhetoric.

    Experts warn that even small cuts will exacerbate an already pernicious problem with political disinformation in the U.S., as citizens lose access to free information that fosters media literacy and encourages trust across demographics.

    In many ways, public media remains the last broadly shared civic commons. It is both commercial-free and independently edited.

    Another study, by the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg School in 2022, affirmed that “countries with independent and well-funded public broadcasting systems also consistently have stronger democracies.”

    The study highlighted how public media works to bridge divides and foster understanding across polarized groups. Unlike commercial media, where the profit motive often creates incentives to emphasize conflict and sensationalism, public media generally seeks to provide balanced perspectives that encourage dialogue and mutual respect. Reports are often longer and more in-depth than those by other news outlets.

    Such attention to nuance provides a critical counterweight to the fragmented, often hyperpartisan news bubbles that pervade cable news and social media. And this skillful, more balanced treatment helps to ameliorate political polarization and misinformation.

    In all, public media’s unique structure and mission make democracy healthier in the U.S. and across the world. Public media prioritizes education and civic enlightenment. It gives citizens important tools for navigating complex issues to make informed decisions – whether those decisions are about whom to vote for or about public policy itself. Maintaining and strengthening public broadcasting preserves media diversity and advances important principles of self-government.

    Congress’ cuts to public broadcasting will diminish the range and volume of the free press and the independent reporting it provides. Ronald Reagan once described a free press as vital for the United States to succeed in its “noble experiment in self-government.” From that perspective, more independent reporting – not less – will prove the best remedy for any worry about partisan spin.

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

    – ref. PBS and NPR are generally unbiased, independent of government propaganda and provide key benefits to US democracy – https://theconversation.com/pbs-and-npr-are-generally-unbiased-independent-of-government-propaganda-and-provide-key-benefits-to-us-democracy-261512

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Skillful Application of Fundamental Principles Yields Standout Results: TrustCo Announces Net Income Up 19.8%; Net Interest Income up 10.5%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Executive Snapshot:

    • Bank-wide financial results:
      • Key metrics for the second quarter 2025:
        • Net income of $15.0 million, or $0.79 diluted earnings per share, increased 19.8% compared to $12.6 million, or $0.66 diluted earnings per share for the second quarter 2024
        • Net interest income of $41.7 million, up 10.5% from $37.8 million for the second quarter 2024
        • Net interest margin of 2.71%, up 18 basis points from 2.53% in second quarter of 2024
        • Average loans were up $115.6 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to the second quarter 2024
        • Average deposits were up $173.4 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to the second quarter 2024
    • Capital position and key ratios:
      • Consolidated equity to assets increased to 10.91% as of June 30, 2025 from 10.73% as of June 30, 2024
      • Book value per share as of June 30, 2025 was $36.75, up from $34.46 as of June 30, 2024
      • 169 thousand shares of TrustCo common stock were purchased under the stock repurchase program during the second quarter 2025
    • Trustco Financial Services and Wealth Management income:
      • Fees increased to $1.8 million, or by 13.0%, compared to second quarter 2024
      • Assets under management increased to $1.19 billion, or by 8.2%, compared to second quarter 2024

    GLENVILLE, N.Y., July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TrustCo Bank Corp NY (TrustCo, NASDAQ: TRST) today announced strong financial results for the second quarter of 2025 underscored by rising net interest income, continued margin expansion, and accelerated loan growth across key portfolios. Net interest income increased 10.5% year over year to $41.7 million, driven by the ongoing repricing of the loan portfolio at higher yields and disciplined management of deposit costs, which remained well-controlled despite sustained competitive pressures. Net interest margin expanded to 2.71% from 2.53% in the prior year period, reflecting improved asset yields and prudent deposit pricing strategies. This resulted in second quarter 2025 net income of $15.0 million or $0.79 diluted earnings per share, compared to net income of $12.6 million or $0.66 diluted earnings per share for the second quarter 2024. Loan growth gained momentum during the quarter, with total average loans increasing $115.6 million or 2.3% for the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. This growth signals increasing borrower confidence and supports the Bank’s strategic focus on high quality relationship lending.        

    Overview

    Chairman, President, and CEO, Robert J. McCormick said “Part of our long-term strategy is having the right mix of products available so that we can sell the right thing, to the right customer, at the right time. It is our ability to do this with agility and skill that has produced the standout results announced today. We saw double digit growth in our return metrics year over year, as return on average assets improved 17%, and return on average equity grew 12.5%. Our margin improved 7% year over year, in tandem with a 12% year over year improvement in adjusted efficiency ratio. Our ability to sell home equity products at a time of high market demand for the flexibility they offer has been key to this success. Home equity credit lines are up 18% year over year. Likewise, we strategically grew commercial loans 11% year over year – which we have done without exposure to risky multi-family loans or other industry-specific concentrations. We lowered non-performing loans to total loans by 7% year over year, and booked a second consecutive quarter of net recoveries. These exceptional results in the first half of 2025 provide a foundation for positive momentum moving into 2026.”

    Details

    As the year continues to progress, we are seeing increased opportunities to deploy our resources effectively. Some efforts include loan originations, targeted investments in technology and digital banking infrastructure, and strategic growth in key markets. Average loans were up $115.6 million, or 2.3%, in the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. Average residential loans and HECLs, our primary lending focus, were up $27.9 million, or 0.6%, and $64.7 million, or 17.8%, respectively, in the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. Average commercial loans also increased $25.8 million, or 9.2%, in the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. We believe that this upward trend reflects improving economic confidence among borrowers, strong credit quality, and the Bank’s focus on relationship lending. The sustained growth in the loan portfolio will likely enhance net interest income in the quarters ahead. Average deposits were up $173.4 million, or 3.3%, for the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024, primarily as a result of an increase in time deposits, interest bearing checking accounts, and demand deposits. The Bank’s continued emphasis on relationship banking, combined with competitive product offerings and digital capabilities, has contributed to a stable deposit base that supports ongoing loan growth and expansion.

    During the second quarter of 2025, we remained committed to returning value to shareholders through a disciplined share repurchase program, which reflects our confidence in the long-term strength of the franchise and our focus on capital optimization. TrustCo purchased 169 thousand, or 0.9%, of total shares outstanding of TrustCo common stock under the previously announced stock repurchase program during the second quarter of 2025. Our approach ensures every dollar of capital is working to generate solid returns, strengthen customer relationships, and enhance shareholder value. As of June 30, 2025, our equity to asset ratio was 10.91%, compared to 10.73% as of June 30, 2024. Book value per share as of June 30, 2025 was $36.75, up 6.6% compared to $34.46 a year earlier.

    Net interest income was $41.7 million for the second quarter 2025, an increase of $4.0 million, or 10.5%, compared to the second quarter of 2024, driven by loan growth at higher interest rates, increase in interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments, and less interest expense on deposit products, partially offset by lower investment interest income. The net interest margin for the second quarter 2025 was 2.71%, up 18 basis points from 2.53% in the second quarter of 2024. The yield on interest earnings assets increased to 4.19% in the second quarter of 2025, up 13 basis points from 4.06% in the second quarter of 2024. The cost of interest bearing liabilities decreased to 1.91% in the second quarter 2025, down from 1.97% in the second quarter 2024. The Bank is well positioned to continue delivering strong net interest income performance even as the Federal Reserve signals a potential easing cycle in the months ahead. Our balance sheet is built for resilience and flexibility, with a favorable asset mix and a stable deposit base that we believe positions us to thrive across interest rate environments. In addition to new loan originations, we are seeing ongoing opportunities to reprice portions of our existing loan book as higher-rate loans replace paydowns and early payoffs, helping us maintain attractive yields. With loan demand accelerating and funding costs stabilizing, we believe there is meaningful upside to net interest income in the coming quarters. Our proactive asset-liability management strategy gives us confidence in sustaining margin strength and driving consistent profitable growth.

    Non-interest income, net of net gains on equity securities, increased to $4.9 million as compared to $4.3 million for the second quarter of 2024. This increase was primarily attributable to wealth management and financial services fees, which increased by 13.0% to $1.8 million, driven by strong client demand and higher assets under management. These revenues represent 37.5% of non-interest income for the second quarter of 2025. The majority of this fee income is recurring, supported by long-term advisory relationships and a growing base of managed assets. Non-interest expense increased $236 thousand over the second quarter of 2024.

    Asset quality remains strong and has been consistent over the past twelve months. The Company recorded a provision for credit losses on loans of $650 thousand in the second quarter of 2025. The ratio of allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans was 0.99% as of both June 30, 2025 and 2024. The allowance for credit losses on loans was $51.3 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $49.8 million as of June 30, 2024. Nonperforming loans (NPLs) were $17.9 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $19.2 million as of June 30, 2024. NPLs were 0.35% and 0.38% of total loans as of June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The coverage ratio, or allowance for credit losses on loans to NPLs, was 286.2% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 259.4% as of June 30, 2024. Nonperforming assets (NPAs) were $19.0 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $21.5 million as of June 30, 2024.  

    A conference call to discuss second quarter 2025 results will be held at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2025. Those wishing to participate in the call may dial toll-free for the United States at 1-833-470-1428, and for Canada at 1-833-950-0062, Access code 258501. A replay of the call will be available for thirty days by dialing toll-free for the United States at 1-866-813-9403, Access code 410483.   The call will also be audio webcast at  https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/979003710, and will be available for one year.

    About TrustCo Bank Corp NY

    TrustCo Bank Corp NY is a $6.3 billion savings and loan holding company and through its subsidiary, Trustco Bank, operated 136 offices in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida as of June 30, 2025.

    In addition, the Bank’s Wealth Management Department offers a full range of investment services, retirement planning and trust and estate administration services. The common shares of TrustCo are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TRST.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this news release and the related earnings call that are not historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will” and similar references to future development, results or periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding our expectations for our future performance, including our expectations regarding the impact of our loan portfolio’s growth, loan demand and funding cost on net interest income, and the anticipated effects of our capital management strategy, including our stock repurchase program. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations as well as certain assumptions and estimates made by, and information available to, management at the time the statements are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially for TrustCo from the views, beliefs and projections expressed in such statements, and many of the risks and uncertainties are heightened by or may, in the future, be heightened by volatility in financial markets and macroeconomic or geopolitical concerns related to inflation, changes in United States and foreign trade policy, continued elevated interest rates and ongoing armed conflicts (including the Russia/Ukraine conflict and the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas). TrustCo wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The following important factors, among others, in some cases have affected and in the future could affect TrustCo’s actual results and could cause TrustCo’s actual financial performance to differ materially from that expressed in any forward-looking statement: future changes in interest rates; external economic factors, such as changes in monetary policy, ongoing inflationary pressures and continued elevated prices; exposure to credit risk in our lending activities; the risk of weakness in residential real estate markets; our increasing commercial loan portfolio; the sufficiency of our allowance for credit losses on loans to cover actual loan losses; our ability to meet the cash flow requirements of our depositors or borrowers or meet our operating cash needs to fund corporate expansion and other activities; claims and litigation pertaining to fiduciary responsibility and lender liability; the enforcement of federal cannabis laws and regulations and its impact on our ability to provide services in the cannabis industry; our dependency upon the services of the management team; our disclosure controls and procedures’ ability to prevent or detect errors or acts of fraud; the adequacy of our business continuity and disaster recovery plans; the effectiveness of our risk management framework; the impact of any expansion by us into new lines of business or new products and services; an increase in the prevalence of fraud and other financial crimes; the impact of severe weather events and climate change on us and the communities we serve, including societal responses to climate change; environmental, social and governance risks, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion-related risks, and their impact on our reputation and relationships; the chance of a prolonged economic downturn, especially one affecting our geographic market area; instability in global economic conditions and geopolitical matters, as well as volatility in financial markets; the soundness of other financial institutions; U.S. government shutdowns, credit rating downgrades, or failure to increase the debt ceiling; fluctuations in the trust wealth management fees we receive as a result of investment performance; the impact of regulatory capital rules on our growth; changes in laws and regulations, including changes in cybersecurity or privacy regulations; restrictions on data collection and use; our compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, and other laws and regulations that could result in material fines or sanctions; changes in tax laws; limitations on our ability to pay dividends; TrustCo Realty Corp.’s ability to qualify as a real estate investment trust; changes in accounting standards; competition within our market areas; consumers and businesses’ use of non-banks to complete financial transactions; our reliance on third-party service providers; the impact of data breaches and cyber-attacks; the development and use of artificial intelligence; the impact of a failure in or breach of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties; the impact of an unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential client or customer information; the impact of interruptions in the effective operation of our computer systems; the impact of anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents; the impact of the manner in which we allocate capital; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in our public filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2025 to be filed with the SEC. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent TrustCo management’s judgment as of the date of this news release. TrustCo disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements, either as a result of future developments, new information or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    TRUSTCO BANK CORP NY
    GLENVILLE, NY
     
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
      Three months ended
      6/30/2025
    		   3/31/2025
    		   6/30/2024
    Summary of operations          
    Net interest income $ 41,746     $ 40,373     $ 37,788  
    Provision for credit losses   650       300       500  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       –       1,360  
    Noninterest income, excluding net gains on equity securities   4,852       4,974       4,291  
    Noninterest expense   26,223       26,329       26,459  
    Net income   15,039       14,275       12,551  
               
    Per share          
    Net income per share:          
    – Basic $ 0.79     $ 0.75     $ 0.66  
    – Diluted   0.79       0.75       0.66  
    Cash dividends   0.36       0.36       0.36  
    Book value at period end   36.75       36.16       34.46  
    Market price at period end   33.42       30.48       28.77  
               
    At period end          
    Full time equivalent employees   733       740       753  
    Full service banking offices   136       136       138  
               
    Performance ratios          
    Return on average assets   0.96 %     0.93 %     0.82 %
    Return on average equity   8.73       8.49       7.76  
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP)   56.27       58.06       60.91  
    Adjusted Efficiency ratio (1)   55.15       58.00       62.84  
    Net interest spread   2.28       2.21       2.09  
    Net interest margin   2.71       2.64       2.53  
    Dividend payout ratio   45.27       47.97       54.57  
               
    Capital ratios at period end          
    Consolidated equity to assets   10.91 %     10.85 %     10.73 %
    Consolidated tangible equity to tangible assets (1)   10.91 %     10.84 %     10.72 %
               
    Asset quality analysis at period end          
    Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.35 %     0.37 %     0.38 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.30       0.33       0.35  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans   0.99       0.99       0.99  
    Coverage ratio (2)   2.9x       2.7x       2.6x  
               
               
    (1) Non-GAAP Financial Measure, see Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
    (2) Calculated as allowance for credit losses on loans divided by total nonperforming loans.          
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS, Continued      
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)      
    (Unaudited)      
      Six Months Ended
      06/30/25
    		   06/30/24
    Summary of operations      
    Net interest income $ 82,119       74,366  
    Provision for credit losses   950       1,100  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       1,360  
    Noninterest income, excluding net gains on equity securities   9,826       9,134  
    Noninterest expense   52,552       51,362  
    Net income   29,314       24,677  
           
    Per share      
    Net income per share:      
    – Basic $ 1.54       1.30  
    – Diluted   1.54       1.30  
    Cash dividends   0.72       0.72  
    Book value at period end   36.75       34.46  
    Market price at period end   33.42       28.77  
           
    Performance ratios      
    Return on average assets   0.94 %     0.81  
    Return on average equity   8.61       7.65  
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP)   57.16       60.53  
    Adjusted Efficiency ratio (1)   56.56       61.40  
    Net interest spread   2.24       2.05  
    Net interest margin   2.68       2.48  
    Dividend payout ratio   46.58       55.51  
           
    (1) Non-GAAP Financial Measure, see Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.      
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                       
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)                  
    (Unaudited)                  
      Three months ended
      6/30/2025   3/31/2025   12/31/2024   9/30/2024     6/30/2024  
    Interest and dividend income:                  
    Interest and fees on loans $ 54,557     $ 53,450     $ 53,024     $ 52,112     $ 50,660  
    Interest and dividends on securities available for sale:                  
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   614       596       680       718       909  
    State and political subdivisions   –       –       –       –       1  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations – residential   1,613       1,483       1,418       1,397       1,451  
    Corporate bonds   210       260       358       361       362  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                  
    participation securities   75       81       84       90       94  
    Other securities   8       7       6       2       2  
    Total interest and dividends on securities available for sale   2,520       2,427       2,546       2,568       2,819  
                       
    Interest on held to maturity securities:                  
    obligations – residential   54       57       59       62       65  
    Total interest on held to maturity securities   54       57       59       62       65  
                       
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   129       151       152       153       147  
                       
    Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments   7,212       6,732       6,128       6,174       6,894  
    Total interest income   64,472       62,817       61,909       61,069       60,585  
                       
    Interest expense:                  
    Interest on deposits:                  
    Interest-bearing checking   536       558       397       311       288  
    Savings   733       734       719       770       675  
    Money market deposit accounts   2,086       1,989       2,024       2,154       2,228  
    Time deposits   19,195       18,983       19,680       18,969       19,400  
    Interest on short-term borrowings   176       180       187       194       206  
    Total interest expense   22,726       22,444       23,007       22,398       22,797  
                       
    Net interest income   41,746       40,373       38,902       38,671       37,788  
                       
    Less: Provision for credit losses   650       300       400       500       500  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   41,096       40,073       38,502       38,171       37,288  
                       
    Noninterest income:                  
    Trustco Financial Services income   1,818       2,120       1,778       2,044       1,609  
    Fees for services to customers   2,266       2,645       2,226       2,482       2,399  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       –       –       23       1,360  
    Other   768       209       405       382       283  
    Total noninterest income   4,852       4,974       4,409       4,931       5,651  
                       
    Noninterest expenses:                  
    Salaries and employee benefits   11,876       11,894       12,068       12,134       12,520  
    Net occupancy expense   4,518       4,554       4,563       4,271       4,375  
    Equipment expense   1,918       1,944       2,404       1,757       1,990  
    Professional services   1,886       1,726       1,782       1,863       1,570  
    Outsourced services   2,460       2,700       3,051       2,551       2,755  
    Advertising expense   304       361       590       339       466  
    FDIC and other insurance   1,136       1,188       1,113       1,112       797  
    Other real estate expense, net   522       28       476       204       16  
    Other   1,603       1,934       2,118       1,969       1,970  
    Total noninterest expenses   26,223       26,329       28,165       26,200       26,459  
                       
    Income before taxes   19,725       18,718       14,746       16,902       16,480  
    Income taxes   4,686       4,443       3,465       4,027       3,929  
                       
    Net income $ 15,039     $ 14,275     $ 11,281     $ 12,875     $ 12,551  
                       
    Net income per common share:                  
    – Basic $ 0.79     $ 0.75     $ 0.59     $ 0.68     $ 0.66  
                       
    – Diluted   0.79       0.75       0.59       0.68       0.66  
                       
    Average basic shares (in thousands)   18,965       19,020       19,015       19,010       19,022  
    Average diluted shares (in thousands)   18,994       19,044       19,045       19,036       19,033  
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME, Continued
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
      Six Months Ended
      06/30/25   06/30/24
    Interest and dividend income:      
    Interest and fees on loans $ 108,007       100,464  
    Interest and dividends on securities available for sale:      
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   1,210       1,815  
    State and political subdivisions   –       1  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage      
    obligations – residential   3,096       2,945  
    Corporate bonds   470       838  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed      
    participation securities   156       194  
    Other securities   15       5  
    Total interest and dividends on securities available for sale   4,947       5,798  
           
    Interest on held to maturity securities:      
    Mortgage-backed securities-residential   111       133  
    Total interest on held to maturity securities   111       133  
           
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   280       299  
           
    Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments   13,944       13,644  
    Total interest income   127,289       120,338  
           
    Interest expense:      
    Interest on deposits:      
    Interest-bearing checking   1,094       528  
    Savings   1,467       1,387  
    Money market deposit accounts   4,075       4,570  
    Time deposits   38,178       39,077  
    Interest on short-term borrowings   356       410  
    Total interest expense   45,170       45,972  
           
    Net interest income   82,119       74,366  
           
    Less: Provision for credit losses   950       1,100  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   81,169       73,266  
           
    Noninterest income:      
    Trustco Financial Services income   3,938       3,425  
    Fees for services to customers   4,911       5,144  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       1,360  
    Other   977       565  
    Total noninterest income   9,826       10,494  
           
    Noninterest expenses:      
    Salaries and employee benefits   23,770       23,947  
    Net occupancy expense   9,072       8,986  
    Equipment expense   3,862       3,728  
    Professional services   3,612       3,030  
    Outsourced services   5,160       5,256  
    Advertising expense   665       874  
    FDIC and other insurance   2,324       1,891  
    Other real estate expense, net   550       90  
    Other   3,537       3,560  
    Total noninterest expenses   52,552       51,362  
           
    Income before taxes   38,443       32,398  
    Income taxes   9,129       7,721  
           
    Net income $ 29,314       24,677  
           
    Net income per common share:      
    – Basic $ 1.54       1.30  
           
    – Diluted   1.54       1.30  
           
    Average basic shares (in thousands)   18,992       19,023  
    Average diluted shares (in thousands)   19,019       19,033  
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
     
    (dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      6/30/2025
    		   3/31/2025
    		   12/31/2024
    		   9/30/2024
    		   6/30/2024
    ASSETS:                  
                       
    Cash and due from banks $ 45,218     $ 48,782     $ 47,364     $ 49,659     $ 42,193  
    Federal funds sold and other short term investments   668,373       707,355       594,448       473,306       493,920  
    Total cash and cash equivalents   713,591       756,137       641,812       522,965       536,113  
                       
    Securities available for sale:                  
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   71,241       65,942       85,617       90,588       106,796  
    States and political subdivisions   18       18       18       26       26  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations – residential   221,721       219,333       213,128       222,841       218,311  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                  
    participation securities   12,945       13,683       14,141       15,171       15,592  
    Corporate bonds   29,943       24,779       44,581       54,327       53,764  
    Other securities   698       698       700       701       688  
    Total securities available for sale   336,566       324,453       358,185       383,654       395,177  
                       
    Held to maturity securities:                  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations-residential   4,836       5,090       5,365       5,636       5,921  
    Total held to maturity securities   4,836       5,090       5,365       5,636       5,921  
                       
    Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,601       6,507       6,507       6,507       6,507  
                       
    Loans:                  
    Commercial   314,273       302,753       286,857       280,261       282,441  
    Residential mortgage loans   4,394,317       4,380,561       4,388,302       4,382,674       4,370,640  
    Home equity line of credit   435,433       419,806       409,261       393,418       370,063  
    Installment loans   12,678       13,017       13,638       14,503       15,168  
    Loans, net of deferred net costs   5,156,701       5,116,137       5,098,058       5,070,856       5,038,312  
                       
    Less: Allowance for credit losses on loans   51,265       50,606       50,248       49,950       49,772  
    Net loans   5,105,436       5,065,531       5,047,810       5,020,906       4,988,540  
                       
    Bank premises and equipment, net   38,129       37,178       33,782       33,324       33,466  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets   36,322       34,968       36,627       37,958       38,376  
    Other assets   106,894       108,681       108,656       98,730       102,544  
                       
    Total assets $ 6,348,375     $ 6,338,545     $ 6,238,744 $ 6,109,680     $ 6,106,644  
                       
    LIABILITIES:                  
    Deposits:                  
    Demand $ 784,351     $ 793,306     $ 762,101     $ 753,878     $ 745,227  
    Interest-bearing checking   1,045,043       1,067,948       1,027,540       988,527       1,029,606  
    Savings accounts   1,082,489       1,094,968       1,086,534       1,092,038       1,144,427  
    Money market deposit accounts   467,087       478,872       465,049       477,113       517,445  
    Time deposits   2,111,344       2,061,576       2,049,759       1,952,635       1,840,262  
    Total deposits   5,490,314       5,496,670       5,390,983       5,264,191       5,276,967  
                       
    Short-term borrowings   82,370       82,275       84,781       91,450       89,720  
    Operating lease liabilities   39,350       38,324       40,159       41,469       42,026  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   43,536       33,468       46,478       43,549       42,763  
                       
    Total liabilities   5,655,570       5,650,737       5,562,401       5,440,659       5,451,476  
                       
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:                  
    Capital stock   20,097       20,097       20,097       20,058       20,058  
    Surplus   259,490       259,182       258,874       257,644       257,490  
    Undivided profits   462,158       453,931       446,503       442,079       436,048  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax   1,663       (132 )     (3,861 )     (6,600 )     (14,268 )
    Treasury stock at cost   (50,603 )     (45,270 )     (45,270 )     (44,160 )     (44,160 )
                       
    Total shareholders’ equity   692,805       687,808       676,343       669,021       655,168  
                       
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 6,348,375     $ 6,338,545     $ 6,238,744 $ 6,109,680     $ 6,106,644  
                       
    Outstanding shares (in thousands)   18,851       19,020       19,020       19,010       19,010  
    NONPERFORMING ASSETS
               
    (dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      6/30/2025
    		   3/31/2025
    		   12/31/2024
    		   9/30/2024
    		   6/30/2024
    Nonperforming Assets                                      
                                           
    New York and other states*                                      
    Loans in nonaccrual status:                                      
    Commercial $ 684     $ 688     $ 343     $ 466     $ 741  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   14,048       14,795       14,671       15,320       14,992  
    Installment   34       139       108       163       131  
    Total nonperforming loans   14,766       15,622       15,122       15,949       15,864  
    Other real estate owned   1,136       2,107       2,175       2,503       2,334  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 15,902     $ 17,729     $ 17,297     $ 18,452     $ 18,198  
               
    Florida          
    Loans in nonaccrual status:          
    Commercial $ –     $ –     $ –     $ 314     $ 314  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   3,132       3,135       3,656       3,176       2,985  
    Installment   12       3       22       5       22  
    Total nonperforming loans   3,144       3,138       3,678       3,495       3,321  
    Other real estate owned   –       –       –       –       –  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 3,144     $ 3,138     $ 3,678     $ 3,495     $ 3,321  
               
    Total          
    Loans in nonaccrual status:          
    Commercial $ 684     $ 688     $ 343     $ 780     $ 1,055  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   17,180       17,930       18,327       18,496       17,977  
    Installment   46       142       130       168       153  
    Total nonperforming loans   17,910       18,760       18,800       19,444       19,185  
    Other real estate owned   1,136       2,107       2,175       2,503       2,334  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 19,046     $ 20,867     $ 20,975     $ 21,947     $ 21,519  
               
               
    Quarterly Net (Recoveries) Chargeoffs          
               
    New York and other states*          
    Commercial $ –     $ (3 )   $ 62     $ 65     $ –  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   (121 )     41       (316 )     104       (74 )
    Installment   18       4       41       11       (2 )
    Total net chargeoffs (recoveries) $ (103 )   $ 42     $ (213 )   $ 180     $ (76 )
               
    Florida          
    Commercial $ –     $ (315 )   $ 314     $ –     $ –  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   –       –       –       –       17  
    Installment   94       15       1       42       7  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs $ 94     $ (300 )   $ 315     $ 42     $ 24  
               
    Total          
    Commercial $ –     $ (318 )   $ 376     $ 65     $ –  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   (121 )     41       (316 )     104       (57 )
    Installment   112       19       42       53       5  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs $ (9 )   $ (258 )   $ 102     $ 222     $ (52 )
               
               
    Asset Quality Ratios          
               
    Total nonperforming loans (1) $ 17,910     $ 18,760     $ 18,800     $ 19,444     $ 19,185  
    Total nonperforming assets (1)   19,046       20,867       20,975       21,947       21,519  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs (2)   (9 )     (258 )     102       222       (52 )
               
    Allowance for credit losses on loans (1)   51,265       50,606       50,248       49,950       49,772  
               
    Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.35 %     0.37 %     0.37 %     0.38 %     0.38 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.30 %     0.33 %     0.34 %     0.36 %     0.35 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans   0.99 %     0.99 %     0.99 %     0.99 %     0.99 %
    Coverage ratio (1)   286.2 %     269.8 %     267.3 %     256.9 %     259.4 %
    Annualized net (recoveries) chargeoffs to average loans (2)   0.00 %     -0.02 %     0.01 %     0.02 %     0.00 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to annualized net chargeoffs (2) N/A N/A 123.2x 56.3x N/A
     
    * Includes New York, New Jersey, Vermont and Massachusetts.
    (1) At period-end
    (2) For the three-month period ended
    DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY –
    INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL
     
    (dollars in thousands)                              
    (Unaudited) Three months ended   Three months ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
      Average   Interest     Average     Average   Interest     Average  
      Balance         Rate     Balance         Rate  
    Assets                              
                                   
    Securities available for sale:                              
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises $ 73,468     $ 614       3.34 %   $ 113,844     $ 909       3.20 %  
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                              
    obligations – residential   244,628       1,613       2.62       250,517       1,451       2.30  
    State and political subdivisions   18       0       6.77       26       1       6.75  
    Corporate bonds   25,707       210       3.26       55,065       362       2.63  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                              
    participation securities   14,083       75       2.14       17,436       94       2.15  
    Other   697       8       4.59       694       2       1.15  
                                   
    Total securities available for sale   358,601       2,520       2.81       437,582       2,819       2.58  
                                   
    Federal funds sold and other short-term Investments   648,457       7,212       4.46       506,493       6,894       5.48  
                                   
    Held to maturity securities:                              
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                              
    obligations – residential   4,970       54       4.37       6,054       65       4.28  
                                   
    Total held to maturity securities   4,970       54       4.37       6,054       65       4.28  
                                   
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,591       129       7.83       6,340       147       9.27  
                                   
    Commercial loans   306,373       4,261       5.56       280,559       3,765       5.37  
    Residential mortgage loans   4,387,181       43,236       3.94       4,359,232       40,819       3.75  
    Home equity lines of credit   428,933       6,830       6.39       364,210       5,814       6.42  
    Installment loans   12,523       230       7.35       15,395       262       6.86  
                                   
    Loans, net of unearned income   5,135,010       54,557       4.25       5,019,396       50,660       4.04  
                                   
    Total interest earning assets   6,153,629     $ 64,472       4.19       5,975,865     $ 60,585       4.06  
                                   
    Allowance for credit losses on loans   (50,777 )                 (49,454 )            
    Cash & non-interest earning assets   204,006                   181,688              
                                   
                                   
    Total assets $ 6,306,858                 $ 6,108,099              
                                   
                                   
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity                              
                                   
    Deposits:                              
    Interest bearing checking accounts $ 1,039,242     $ 536       0.21 %   $ 1,009,048     $ 288       0.11 %  
    Money market accounts   470,824       2,086       1.78       524,068       2,228       1.71  
    Savings   1,087,467       733       0.27       1,145,922       675       0.24  
    Time deposits   2,085,329       19,195       3.69       1,873,139       19,400       4.17  
                                   
    Total interest bearing deposits   4,682,862       22,550       1.93       4,552,177       22,591       2.00  
    Short-term borrowings   81,055       176       0.87       93,703       206       0.89  
                                   
    Total interest bearing liabilities   4,763,917     $ 22,726       1.91       4,645,880     $ 22,797       1.97  
                                   
    Demand deposits   777,956                   735,262              
    Other liabilities   73,903                   76,258              
    Shareholders’ equity   691,082                   650,699              
                                   
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 6,306,858                 $ 6,108,099              
                                   
    Net interest income     $ 41,746                 $ 37,788          
                                   
    Net interest spread           2.28 %             2.09 %  
                                   
                                   
    Net interest margin (net interest income to                              
    total interest earning assets)           2.71 %             2.53 %  
    DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY –
    INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL, Continued
                                     
    (dollars in thousands)                                
    (Unaudited) Six Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
      June 30, 2025     June 30, 2024  
      Average   Interest       Average     Average   Interest     Average  
      Balance           Rate     Balance         Rate  
    Assets                                
                                     
    Securities available for sale:                                
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises $ 74,071       1,210       3.27 %   $ 119,908       1,815       3.03 %
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                                
    obligations – residential   242,083       3,096       2.56       254,665       2,945       2.31  
    State and political subdivisions   18       –       6.77       26       1       6.82  
    Corporate bonds   32,823       470       2.86       64,345       838       2.60  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                                
    participation securities   14,540       156       2.15       17,830       194       2.18  
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                                
    obligations – commercial   –                     –       –       –  
    Other   698       15       4.30       695       5       1.44  
                                     
    Total securities available for sale   364,233       4,947       2.72       457,469       5,798       2.53  
                                     
    Federal funds sold and other short-term Investments   631,148       13,944       4.46       502,072       13,644       5.47  
                                     
    Held to maturity securities:                                
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                                
    obligations – residential   5,101       111       4.35       6,192       133       4.29  
                                     
    Total held to maturity securities   5,101       111       4.35       6,192       133       4.29  
                                     
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,549       280       8.55       6,271       299       9.54  
                                     
    Commercial loans   302,173       8,426       5.58       278,871       7,425       5.33  
    Residential mortgage loans   4,386,418       85,851       3.92       4,359,351       81,236       3.73  
    Home equity lines of credit   421,498       13,265       6.35       358,607       11,277       6.32  
    Installment loans   12,744       465       7.36       15,761       526       6.72  
                                     
    Loans, net of unearned income   5,122,833       108,007       4.22       5,012,590       100,464       4.01  
                                     
    Total interest earning assets   6,129,864       127,289       4.16       5,984,594       120,338       4.03  
                                     
    Allowance for credit losses on loans   (50,627 )                   (49,139 )            
    Cash & non-interest earning assets   202,590                     188,364              
                                     
                                     
    Total assets $ 6,281,827                   $ 6,123,819              
                                     
                                     
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity                                
                                     
    Deposits:                                
    Interest bearing checking accounts $ 1,038,733       1,094       0.21 %   $ 999,589       528       0.11 %
    Money market accounts   469,952       4,075       1.75       534,378       4,570       1.72  
    Savings   1,088,408       1,467       0.27       1,152,241       1,387       0.24  
    Time deposits   2,069,998       38,178       3.72       1,881,535       39,077       4.18  
                                     
    Total interest bearing deposits   4,667,091       44,814       1.94       4,567,743       45,562       2.01  
    Short-term borrowings   82,125       356       0.87       93,510       410       0.88  
                                     
    Total interest bearing liabilities   4,749,216       45,170       1.92       4,661,253       45,972       1.98  
                                     
    Demand deposits   769,923                     730,781              
    Other liabilities   76,308                     83,105              
    Shareholders’ equity   686,380                     648,680              
                                     
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 6,281,827                   $ 6,123,819              
                                     
    Net interest income       82,119                   74,366          
                                     
    Net interest spread             2.24 %             2.05 %
                                     
                                     
    Net interest margin (net interest income to                                
    total interest earning assets)             2.68 %             2.48 %

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation

    Tangible book value per share is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible book value by excluding the balance of intangible assets from total shareholders’ equity divided by shares outstanding. We believe that this is consistent with the treatment by bank regulatory agencies, which exclude intangible assets from the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. Additionally, we believe that this measure is important to many investors in the marketplace who are interested in relative changes from period to period in equity exclusive of changes in intangible assets.

    Tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets at period end is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible equity and tangible assets by excluding the balance of intangible assets from total shareholders’ equity and total assets, respectively. We calculate tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets at period end by dividing tangible equity by tangible assets at period end. We believe that this is consistent with the treatment by bank regulatory agencies, which exclude intangible assets from the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. Additionally, we believe that this measure is important to many investors in the marketplace who are interested in relative changes from period to period in equity and total assets, each exclusive of changes in intangible assets.

    Adjusted efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measures of expense control relative to revenue from net interest income and non-interest fee income. We calculate the efficiency ratio by dividing total non-interest expense by the sum of net interest income and total non-interest income. We calculate the adjusted efficiency ratio by dividing total noninterest expenses as determined under GAAP, excluding other real estate expense, net, by net interest income and total noninterest income as determined under GAAP, excluding net gains on equity securities. We believe that this provides a reasonable measure of primary banking expenses relative to primary banking revenue. Additionally, we believe this measure is important to investors looking for a measure of efficiency in our productivity measured by the amount of revenue generated for each dollar spent.

    We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures provide information that is important to investors and that is useful in understanding our financial results. Our management internally assesses our performance based, in part, on these measures. However, these non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental and not a substitute for an analysis based on GAAP measures. As other companies may use different calculations for these measures, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures reported by other companies. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures of tangible book value to shares outstanding, tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets, and efficiency ratio to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is set forth below.  

    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES RECONCILIATION              
                   
    (dollars in thousands)              
    (Unaudited)              
        6/30/2025   3/31/2025   6/30/2024      
    Tangible Book Value Per Share              
                   
    Equity (GAAP)   $ 692,805     $ 687,808     $ 655,168        
    Less: Intangible assets     553       553       553        
    Tangible equity (Non-GAAP)   $ 692,252     $ 687,255     $ 654,615        
                   
    Shares outstanding     18,851       19,020       19,010        
    Tangible book value per share     36.72       36.13       34.44        
    Book value per share     36.75       36.16       34.46        
                   
    Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets              
    Total Assets (GAAP)   $ 6,348,375     $ 6,338,545     $ 6,106,644        
    Less: Intangible assets     553       553       553        
    Tangible assets (Non-GAAP)   $ 6,347,822     $ 6,337,992     $ 6,106,091        
                   
    Consolidated Equity to Assets (GAAP)     10.91 %     10.85 %     10.73 %      
    Consolidated Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets (Non-GAAP)     10.91 %     10.84 %     10.72 %      
                   
        Three months ended   Six Months Ended
    Efficiency and Adjusted Efficiency Ratios   6/30/2025 3/31/2025 6/30/2024   6/30/2025     6/30/2024  
    Net interest income (GAAP) A $ 41,746     $ 40,373     $ 37,788     $ 82,119     $ 74,366  
    Non-interest income (GAAP) B   4,852       4,974       5,651       9,826       10,494  
    Less: Net gains on equity securities     –       –       1,360       –       1,360  
    Revenue used for efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP) C $ 46,598     $ 45,347     $ 42,079     $ 91,945     $ 83,500  
                   
    Total noninterest expense (GAAP) D $ 26,223     $ 26,329     $ 26,459     $ 52,552     $ 51,362  
    Less: Other real estate expense, net E   522       28       16       550       90  
    Expense used for efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP) F $ 25,701     $ 26,301     $ 26,443     $ 52,002     $ 51,272  
                   
    Efficiency Ratio (GAAP) D/(A+B)   56.27 %     58.06 %     60.91 %     57.16 %     60.53 %
    Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (Non-GAAP) F/C   55.15 %     58.00 %     62.84 %     56.56 %     61.40 %

    Subsidiary: Trustco Bank

    Contact: Robert Leonard
      Executive Vice President
      (518) 381-3693

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of TLGY Acquisition Corporation (OTCMKTS: TLGYF)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating TLGY Acquisition Corporation (OTCMKTS: TLGYF) related to its merger with StableCoinX Assets Inc. Under the terms of the proposed transaction, each Class A ordinary share of TLGY will be converted into one share of Class A common stock of StableCoinX. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/tlgy-acquisition-corporation/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

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

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

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of TLGY Acquisition Corporation (OTCMKTS: TLGYF)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating TLGY Acquisition Corporation (OTCMKTS: TLGYF) related to its merger with StableCoinX Assets Inc. Under the terms of the proposed transaction, each Class A ordinary share of TLGY will be converted into one share of Class A common stock of StableCoinX. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/tlgy-acquisition-corporation/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

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

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

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TruGolf Announces Grand Opening of First TruGolf Links Franchise Location in Illinois

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Salt Lake City, Utah, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TruGolf Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRUG), a leading golf technology company, is pleased to announce that its first franchise location with TruGolf Links Franchising will formally open for business on July 29th in the Chicago area. The facility, on 450 S Spruce Street in Manteno, Illinois, will be celebrating from 10am to 2pm with the formal dedication to begin at noon. This is an “Executive” location which features four TruGolf Premium Simulators, TruGolf Multi-sport Arcade but does not offer food and beverage services.

    “Approximately 14 months ago we launched our franchise concept by establishing TruGolf Links and we are thrilled to celebrate the first open location on July 29th, said Chris Jones, TruGolf’s CEO. He continues “With over 160 units in development in 4 states, we anticipate additional locations opening beginning in the fourth quarter, with the pace of location openings accelerating in 2026.”

    TruGolf Links is transforming the way golf is played, practiced, and enjoyed with state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators that blend realism, technology, and accessibility. With proprietary software, precision tracking systems, and immersive course simulations, TruGolf Links provides a best-in- class experience for everyone—from beginners to PGA professionals. In addition to recreation, TruGolf simulators are also being integrated into health, wellness, and performance training environments, helping individuals improve posture, coordination, strength, and range of motion through the game of golf.

    “We are truly delighted for Manteno native, Bob Early and his family to be opening our first TruGolf Links Executive location,” said Dr. Ben Litalien, Chief Development Officer for the franchise company. “Bob is bringing the absolute best indoor golf experience to his community.” TruGolf Links Franchising has franchisees signed in New Jersey, Tennessee, Illinois and New York. Recently, franchisee Nick Reimondo signed a lease for Cherry Hill Shopping Plaza in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

    Speaking about the opening, Operator Bob Early said “We wanted to provide the community with a recreational and training facility that offers the technical expertise Trugolf has accumulated over 40 years. We look forward to hosting local teaching professionals, leagues, and tournaments through the Trugolf network. The addition of the arcade games for non-golfers allows entertainment options for everyone in your group. Memberships and private functions will allow for 24 seven access to fit any schedule. We look forward to being part of the Manteno community.” 

    The July 29th event will feature remarks from Dr. Ben Litalien, TruGolf Link’s Chief Development Officer and the Honorable Annette LaMore, the Mayor of Manteno.

    About TruGolf:

    Since 1983, TruGolf has been passionate about driving the golf industry with innovative indoor golf solutions. TruGolf builds products that capture the spirit of golf. TruGolf’s mission is to help grow the game by attempting to make it more Available, Approachable, and Affordable through technology – because TruGolf believes Golf is for Everyone. TruGolf’s team has built award-winning video games (“Links”), innovative hardware solutions, and an all-new e-sports platform to connect golfers around the world with E6 CONNECT. Since TruGolf’s beginning, TruGolf has continued to attempt to define and redefine what is possible with golf technology.

    About TruGolf Links Franchising:

    While the company offers individual franchises, the focus of its expansion efforts is with Regional Developers who acquire a territory of 1M or more in population, open a flagship location within that territory, then develop the territory with additional units they own or with independent franchisees. Regional Developers are compensated for attracting franchisees and providing support locally to all TruGolf Links locations within their territory.

    For more information about TruGolf Links franchise program, visit: www.trugolflinks.com/franchising.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains certain statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements that are not of historical fact constitute “forward-looking statements” and accordingly, involve estimates, assumptions, forecasts, judgements and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the timing of the reverse stock split. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including ”believes,” ”estimates,” ”anticipates,” ”expects,” ”plans,” ”projects,” ”intends,” ”potential,” ”may,” ”could,” ”might,” ”will,” ”should,” ”approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. More detailed information about the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company is contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TruGolf Announces Grand Opening of First TruGolf Links Franchise Location in Illinois

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Salt Lake City, Utah, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TruGolf Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRUG), a leading golf technology company, is pleased to announce that its first franchise location with TruGolf Links Franchising will formally open for business on July 29th in the Chicago area. The facility, on 450 S Spruce Street in Manteno, Illinois, will be celebrating from 10am to 2pm with the formal dedication to begin at noon. This is an “Executive” location which features four TruGolf Premium Simulators, TruGolf Multi-sport Arcade but does not offer food and beverage services.

    “Approximately 14 months ago we launched our franchise concept by establishing TruGolf Links and we are thrilled to celebrate the first open location on July 29th, said Chris Jones, TruGolf’s CEO. He continues “With over 160 units in development in 4 states, we anticipate additional locations opening beginning in the fourth quarter, with the pace of location openings accelerating in 2026.”

    TruGolf Links is transforming the way golf is played, practiced, and enjoyed with state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators that blend realism, technology, and accessibility. With proprietary software, precision tracking systems, and immersive course simulations, TruGolf Links provides a best-in- class experience for everyone—from beginners to PGA professionals. In addition to recreation, TruGolf simulators are also being integrated into health, wellness, and performance training environments, helping individuals improve posture, coordination, strength, and range of motion through the game of golf.

    “We are truly delighted for Manteno native, Bob Early and his family to be opening our first TruGolf Links Executive location,” said Dr. Ben Litalien, Chief Development Officer for the franchise company. “Bob is bringing the absolute best indoor golf experience to his community.” TruGolf Links Franchising has franchisees signed in New Jersey, Tennessee, Illinois and New York. Recently, franchisee Nick Reimondo signed a lease for Cherry Hill Shopping Plaza in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

    Speaking about the opening, Operator Bob Early said “We wanted to provide the community with a recreational and training facility that offers the technical expertise Trugolf has accumulated over 40 years. We look forward to hosting local teaching professionals, leagues, and tournaments through the Trugolf network. The addition of the arcade games for non-golfers allows entertainment options for everyone in your group. Memberships and private functions will allow for 24 seven access to fit any schedule. We look forward to being part of the Manteno community.” 

    The July 29th event will feature remarks from Dr. Ben Litalien, TruGolf Link’s Chief Development Officer and the Honorable Annette LaMore, the Mayor of Manteno.

    About TruGolf:

    Since 1983, TruGolf has been passionate about driving the golf industry with innovative indoor golf solutions. TruGolf builds products that capture the spirit of golf. TruGolf’s mission is to help grow the game by attempting to make it more Available, Approachable, and Affordable through technology – because TruGolf believes Golf is for Everyone. TruGolf’s team has built award-winning video games (“Links”), innovative hardware solutions, and an all-new e-sports platform to connect golfers around the world with E6 CONNECT. Since TruGolf’s beginning, TruGolf has continued to attempt to define and redefine what is possible with golf technology.

    About TruGolf Links Franchising:

    While the company offers individual franchises, the focus of its expansion efforts is with Regional Developers who acquire a territory of 1M or more in population, open a flagship location within that territory, then develop the territory with additional units they own or with independent franchisees. Regional Developers are compensated for attracting franchisees and providing support locally to all TruGolf Links locations within their territory.

    For more information about TruGolf Links franchise program, visit: www.trugolflinks.com/franchising.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains certain statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements that are not of historical fact constitute “forward-looking statements” and accordingly, involve estimates, assumptions, forecasts, judgements and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the timing of the reverse stock split. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including ”believes,” ”estimates,” ”anticipates,” ”expects,” ”plans,” ”projects,” ”intends,” ”potential,” ”may,” ”could,” ”might,” ”will,” ”should,” ”approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. More detailed information about the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company is contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CarGurus To Report Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CarGurus, Inc. (Nasdaq: CARG), the No. 1 visited digital auto platform for shopping, buying, and selling new and used vehicles1, announced it will issue a press release reporting financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, after the close of the market on August 7, 2025.

    CarGurus will host a conference call and live webcast to discuss those financial results for investors and analysts at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on August 7, 2025. To access the conference call, dial (877) 451-6152 for the U.S. or Canada, or (201) 389-0879 for international callers. The webcast will be available live on the Investors section of the company’s website at https://investors.cargurus.com.

    An audio replay of the call will also be available to investors beginning at approximately 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time on August 7, 2025, until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 21, 2025, by dialing (844) 512-2921 for the U.S. or Canada, or (412) 317-6671 for international callers, and entering passcode 13754096. In addition, an archived webcast will be available on the Investors section of the company’s website at https://investors.cargurus.com.

    About CarGurus, Inc.

    CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG) is a multinational, online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles that is building upon its industry-leading listings marketplace with both digital retail solutions and the CarOffer online wholesale platform. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle either online or in-person, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, instantly acquire, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus is the most visited automotive shopping site in the U.S.1

    In addition to the U.S. marketplace, the company operates online marketplaces under the CarGurus brand in Canada and the U.K., as well as independent online marketplace brands Autolist in the U.S. and PistonHeads in the U.K.

    To learn more about CarGurus, visit www.cargurus.com, and for more information about CarOffer, visit www.caroffer.com.

    CarGurus® is a registered trademark of CarGurus, Inc., and CarOffer® is a registered trademark of CarOffer, LLC. All other product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    1Similarweb: Traffic Report [Cars.com, Autotrader, TrueCar, CARFAX Listings (defined as CARFAX Total visits minus Vehicle History Reports traffic)], Q1 2025, U.S.

    Investor Contact:
    Kirndeep Singh
    Vice President, Head of Investor Relations
    investors@cargurus.com

    Media Contact:
    Maggie Meluzio
    Director, Public Relations & External Communications
    pr@cargurus.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CarGurus To Report Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CarGurus, Inc. (Nasdaq: CARG), the No. 1 visited digital auto platform for shopping, buying, and selling new and used vehicles1, announced it will issue a press release reporting financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, after the close of the market on August 7, 2025.

    CarGurus will host a conference call and live webcast to discuss those financial results for investors and analysts at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on August 7, 2025. To access the conference call, dial (877) 451-6152 for the U.S. or Canada, or (201) 389-0879 for international callers. The webcast will be available live on the Investors section of the company’s website at https://investors.cargurus.com.

    An audio replay of the call will also be available to investors beginning at approximately 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time on August 7, 2025, until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 21, 2025, by dialing (844) 512-2921 for the U.S. or Canada, or (412) 317-6671 for international callers, and entering passcode 13754096. In addition, an archived webcast will be available on the Investors section of the company’s website at https://investors.cargurus.com.

    About CarGurus, Inc.

    CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG) is a multinational, online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles that is building upon its industry-leading listings marketplace with both digital retail solutions and the CarOffer online wholesale platform. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle either online or in-person, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, instantly acquire, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus is the most visited automotive shopping site in the U.S.1

    In addition to the U.S. marketplace, the company operates online marketplaces under the CarGurus brand in Canada and the U.K., as well as independent online marketplace brands Autolist in the U.S. and PistonHeads in the U.K.

    To learn more about CarGurus, visit www.cargurus.com, and for more information about CarOffer, visit www.caroffer.com.

    CarGurus® is a registered trademark of CarGurus, Inc., and CarOffer® is a registered trademark of CarOffer, LLC. All other product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    1Similarweb: Traffic Report [Cars.com, Autotrader, TrueCar, CARFAX Listings (defined as CARFAX Total visits minus Vehicle History Reports traffic)], Q1 2025, U.S.

    Investor Contact:
    Kirndeep Singh
    Vice President, Head of Investor Relations
    investors@cargurus.com

    Media Contact:
    Maggie Meluzio
    Director, Public Relations & External Communications
    pr@cargurus.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICMYI: Estes Joins Washington Watch with Tony Perkins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Washington Watch with Tony Perkins with guest host Jody Hice to discuss the rescissions package, federal spending and provisions within the One Big, Beautiful Bill that will help Kansans and Americans, and more. Watch the interview on YouTube.

    On the rescissions package:

    “Obviously there’s a lot of work we need to do. One out of five dollars that the government spends is borrowed, so we’ve got a lot of things we need to look at. As you said, the rescissions package here was the first time in decades that a president has requested that discretionary spending be pulled back. That, ‘Hey, we don’t need to spend everything that was appropriated a year or longer ago, and focus on specific areas.’

    “If you look through what’s in that rescissions package, the things that we were particularly pulling out, things like funding for NPR. They wanted to fund drag queen programs for children and programs talking about animals need to have their own pronouns … PBS had programs talking about white privilege. 

    “We all heard earlier this year all of the horror stories coming out of USAID in terms of the money that was being wasted around the world. Things like $3 million for electric vehicles in Vietnam and $70,000 for a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion musical in Ireland. I don’t know why Ireland would want to have a DEI musical, but, if they do, the Irish taxpayers ought to pay for it and not American taxpayers. 

    “It’s great to do this rescissions package. [I was] glad to hear Speaker Johnson reiterate today that we need to be doing more of this as we look at all of the discretionary spending that comes out of the federal government, and what do we do going forward. We’ve got a lot of work to do, not just on a discretionary side with rescissions, but obviously some of those automatic spending programs as well.”

    On other areas of the federal government that may be right for rescissions:

    “When we look across the discretionary course, the spending has grown so great since before Covid. If you look at going back to I believe 2019, our tax revenue has gone up. It’s gone up 46% or so, so we’ve got a lot more tax revenue coming in after we passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017. 

    “What we’ve seen is spending’s gone up 70%. Some of that was temporary spending, or should have been temporary spending in Covid, but now it’s gotten baked in and it’s continued on grant programs and other areas across multiple programs. We’ve got so many programs at the federal level that are redundant. You may have four or five different programs in two or three different agencies that are designed to target the same issue. So we’ve got lots of areas to look at that. 

    “DOGE did a great effort earlier this year in identifying some of those areas, but we need to have a constant look at that in terms of where do we spend money, where should we be spending money, and does it make sense to spend dollars at this point, particularly when we’re borrowing one out of five dollars that’s being spent.”

    On the tone of Democrats’ messaging to their voter base:

    “[Democrats] really are [tone deaf.] They don’t have a positive message. They don’t have something that they want America to be for. Basically the Democrat party has become a party of socialists. They’re looking at, ‘How can they make the government spend and dictate what other people do?’ 

    “For example, we look at the One Big, Beautiful Bill, I could talk about so many great provisions there. But their message out of the One Big, Beautiful Bill, that they oppose, is because they wanted to make sure that illegal immigrants got Medicaid. They wanted to make sure that people didn’t have to work at all for the Medicaid dollars that would be given to them to provide for their healthcare, [for] even as little as 20 hours a week, working in a job or getting an education or even in a volunteer role. And so, as they get more strident trying to talk against commonsense things, the American public is turning against them. 

    “When you look at the polling data that’s out there right now, of all Americans, [there is] 72% opposition to Democrats and the positions they’re taking in Congress. Even among Democrats, there’s a majority, 52% of Democrats are not happy that Democrats in Congress are not doing what should be done for America.”

    On Congressman Estes’ op-ed on the One Big, Beautiful Bill:

    “We talk a lot about the One Big, Beautiful Bill. There’s just so much positive things in there. A lot of it was centered around the tax provisions that we needed to extend after 2017, that were going to expire this year, and the results of provisions around border security and defense. But if you really peel some of the layers back and look at some of the details, there’s a whole lot of pro-family and pro-life provisions in there. 

    “What we really wanted to do is make sure that, for example, Medicaid funding was used not by Planned Parenthood to provide abortions. I mean we should have Medicaid to actually help people preserve and protect life and not end it. We wanted to make sure that families could raise their children … So we focused on increasing the Child Tax Credit for families and indexing it for inflation. We increased a tax credit for adoption for people to adopt families. That’s so important now when we see the birth rate dropping down to 11.7% per thousand. We need to have a continual growth in population to make sure that America continues to grow. 

    “You look at provisions like employer-funded childcare provisions. We wanted to make sure those were available. Permanent family and medical leave to help people who maybe have a temporary illness or an issue with their family. We wanted to make sure after these disastrous years of Bidenflation that people were able to raise their families and have the income to provide for their family.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YORK COUNTY – Shapiro Administration and PUC to Announce 2 Gigawatts of Solar Power Generation Installed in Pennsylvania

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    July 22, 2025 – Lewisberry, PA

    ADVISORY – YORK COUNTY – Shapiro Administration and PUC to Announce 2 Gigawatts of Solar Power Generation Installed in Pennsylvania

    The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), will converge on Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania.

    The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania is enough to power nearly 350,000 homes.

    WHAT: DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley, DCNR Deputy Secretary Mike Walsh, and PUC Commissioner Stephen DeFrank will hold a press conference to announce two gigawatts of solar power generation in Pennsylvania.

    WHEN:
    Tuesday, July 22, 2025: 1:30 PM

    WHERE:
    Gifford Pinchot State Park
    Quaker Race Day Use Area
    Lewisberry, PA 17339

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tom Decker, thomadecke@pa.gov// 814-332-6615

    For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s website, or follow DEP on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or LinkedIn.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amtrak Tickets Now Available to the New York State Fair

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul, in conjunction with Amtrak and the New York State Department of Transportation, today announced that tickets are now on sale for direct train service to and from the Great New York State Fair. Daily train service allows State Fair visitors a safe, convenient and environmentally friendly travel option to experience one of New York’s premier summer events. Featuring musical performances from top artists, agricultural exhibits, fun for the whole family and delicious food, the Great New York State Fair is upstate New York’s largest annual event. Throughout the Fair’s 13-day duration, five trains will make daily stops starting Wednesday, August 20 and continuing through Monday, September 1. Tickets are available now at Amtrak.com, via the Amtrak mobile app, at the station ticket counters, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL.

    “Taking the train to the Great New York State Fair is a convenient, affordable way to enjoy the best that New York State has to offer,” Governor Hochul said. “From delicious food and live music to rides, games and the best agricultural exhibits anywhere in the state, this year’s Fair truly has something for everybody. The Great New York State Fair is one of my favorite annual events, and I can’t wait to join the hundreds of thousands of visitors at this annual summertime spectacular.”

    By taking the train, visitors will save on traffic, parking fees, and gas by arriving steps from the fairgrounds via select Empire Service and Maple Leaf trains, which will make daily stops at the State Fair (in between stops at Rochester and Syracuse stations). Train service to the Fair includes:

    • Maple Leaf Train 63 – Departs Moynihan Train Hall at 7:16 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 1:11 p.m.
    • Maple Leaf Train 64 – Departs Toronto at 8:20 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 2:51 p.m.
    • Empire Service Train 281 – Departs Moynihan Train Hall at 10:21 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 4:21 p.m.
    • Empire Service Train 283 – Departs Moynihan Train Hall at 1:20 p.m. and arrives at the Fair at 7:13 p.m.
    • Empire Service Train 284 – Departs Niagara Falls at 6:27 a.m. and arrives at the Fair at 9:31 a.m.

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The Great New York State Fair is not to be missed! It is a joyful annual tradition and traveling to the Fair by train is a game-changer for folks who want a fun and convenient travel option. Our great partnership with Amtrak allows fairgoers the chance to experience New York’s incredible traditions, innovations, and agriculture with ease and convenience – literally dropping fairgoers off at the fairgrounds. See you at The Great New York State Fair!”

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Our Great New York State Fair is a celebration of our state’s rich agricultural heritage, providing fairgoers an opportunity to directly connect with New York agriculture. Thanks to our partnership with Amtrak and NYSDOT, more fairgoers from across New York and beyond will be able to experience this incredible event. We’re proud to make it easier for everyone to explore New York agriculture, enjoy the fun, and create lasting memories during this 13-day showcase.”

    New York State Fair Director Julie LaFave said, “Making the Great New York State Fair as welcoming and accessible to everyone is a top priority, and partnering with Amtrak and NYSDOT allows us to provide a comfortable, convenient travel option for fairgoers. We’re excited to invite families, friends, and visitors from across New York and beyond to experience all the fun, food, and festivities that make The Fair a beloved summer tradition. We encourage everyone to consider taking the train for an easy and enjoyable journey to and from this year’s event.”

    Amtrak Vice President, Network Development Nicole Bucich said, “Whether you’re coming from New York City, Niagara Falls, or anywhere in between, traveling on Amtrak will make the experience and journey to the Great State Fair just as enjoyable as the games, food, and fun at the Fair. We appreciate Governor Hochul and NYSDOT’s ongoing partnership in ensuring that New Yorkers can get to the Fair comfortably and conveniently on Amtrak.”

    Direct train service to the Great New York State Fair has been offered by Amtrak since 2002. Customers can save when booking online at least five days in advance of travel with Amtrak’s See NY and Save discount, in addition to everyday discounts for kids, seniors, military members and more. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi with excellent service, spacious Business Class seats, a café car and ample leg room.

    The Great New York State Fair opens Wednesday, August 20 and continues through Labor Day, September 1. Admission is $8 plus fees for adults. Tickets are free for adults ages 65 and over and children ages 12 and under. Tickets include access to all grounds entertainment, agricultural competitions and exhibits, and admission to concerts in Chevy Court and Suburban Park.

    Founded in 1841, the Great New York State Fair showcases the best of New York agriculture, provides top-quality entertainment, and is a key piece of the State’s CNY Rising strategy of growing the Central New York economy through tourism. It is the oldest fair in the United States and is consistently recognized as being among the top five state fairs in the nation.

    The New York State Fairgrounds is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. Audiences are encouraged to learn more about the Great New York State Fair online, browse photos on Flickr, and follow the fun on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Releases 8th Edition of Crypto Gem Hunt Report Highlighting Emerging Trends in L1, Meme, and More

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    7 Breakout Projects Signal the Next Wave of Long-Term Crypto Value

    PANAMA CITY, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, today released the eighth edition of its Crypto Gem Hunt report, a curated research publication that tracks emerging narratives and promising sectors in the digital asset space. This edition identifies notable trends across categories such as meme coins, GameFi, DeFi, and Layer 1 infrastructure. Rather than short-term speculation, the report emphasizes projects with solid fundamentals, active ecosystems, and long-term growth potential.

    The full report is now available at: https://square.htx.com.de/htx-crypto-gem-hunt-8-7-breakout-projects-signal-the-next-wave-of-long-term-crypto-value/

    HTX New Listing Winners

    The Selected Seven Assets: From Meme Coins and GameFi to DeFi and L1 Narratives

    HTX’s Crypto Gem Hunt #8 features seven cherry-picked assets from several trending sectors with prosperous narratives. These sectors cover meme coins, GameFi, DeFi and RWA innovations, and public blockchain infrastructure.

    L1 Public Chain: Time-Honored Infrastructure, New Catalysts

    • TRON ($TRX) | Rated S: TRON’s native token $TRX was recently adopted by Nasdaq-listed firm SRM as part of its strategic reserve, making TRON one of the first blockchain networks bridging into U.S. capital markets. This also makes TRON as a battle-tested Layer 1 network with a fresh off-chain narrative. While its price move of +16.7% is modest, its global exposure and off-chain integration signal a longer-term value growth.

    Meme Coins: Narrative Continues with Strong Community Backing

    • BONK ($BONK): As one of Solana’s OG meme coins, $BONK is back in the spotlight, thanks to the Solana ecosystem revival. According to LetsBONK.fun, BONK has surpassed Pump.fun in on-chain activity, gaining a 193.2% surge over the period.
    • MemeCore ($M): The top gainer, with a jaw-dropping +378.3% performance. Recently listed on both HTX and BN futures markets, its liquidity and social buzz continue to scale.
    • Banana For Scale ($BANANAS31): A dark horse from the BNB Chain, up 347% since launch. Fueled by the light-hearted vibe and community energy, its memetic power still shows further viral marketing potential.
    • Build On BNB ($BOBBSC): Another rising star of meme coin on BNB Smart Chain, $BOBBSC has surged over 200%, leveraging the BNB ecosystem’s benefits. It now plays at a low market cap, ideal for early value investment.

    GameFi: Legacy Tokens, New Momentum

    • FUNToken ($FUN): A veteran in the GameFi space, now seeing renewed interest. With a robust tokenomics model and real in-game utility, $FUN has rebounded nearly by 94%, positioning itself as a strong recovery asset in the GameFi comeback story.

    DeFi + RWA: Real-World Asset Tokenization Heats Up

    • Maple Finance ($SYRUP): The rising star of DeFi’s institutional pivot, specializing in on-chain credit and RWA lending. While Maple is tokenizing high-quality real-world assets with strong compliance narratives, $SYRUP has gained a 71.1% increase since its launch on HTX, driven by demand for yield-generating, regulation-friendly assets.

    Beyond the Charts: Why These Projects Matter

    These seven assets in HTX’s Crypto Gem Hunt #8 share a key trait: they are actively delivering on their narratives, not just promising them. From TRON’s growing real-world footprint to BONK’s strong rise on Solana, from the explosive virality of MemeCore and Build On BNB to the yield-driven momentum of Maple behind RWA’s building, these aren’t flash-in-the-pan plays. They’re structurally supported stories with runway left to go.

    HTX’s research team carefully tracks narrative fulfillment, not just speculation. This forward-focused methodology aims to help users identify long-term value, especially as retail sentiment continues to chase short-term price spikes. As the market heats up and narratives rotate at breakneck speed, the report stands as a reminder that the next bull cycle won’t be won by hype alone and the true gems may already be on-chain yet underexposed.

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

    To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/deca9b48-dad7-4a6d-8fe4-3af239cdbffc

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b5e38fd-5db0-44c2-9ccf-4718fe9e6bdc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Releases 8th Edition of Crypto Gem Hunt Report Highlighting Emerging Trends in L1, Meme, and More

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    7 Breakout Projects Signal the Next Wave of Long-Term Crypto Value

    PANAMA CITY, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, today released the eighth edition of its Crypto Gem Hunt report, a curated research publication that tracks emerging narratives and promising sectors in the digital asset space. This edition identifies notable trends across categories such as meme coins, GameFi, DeFi, and Layer 1 infrastructure. Rather than short-term speculation, the report emphasizes projects with solid fundamentals, active ecosystems, and long-term growth potential.

    The full report is now available at: https://square.htx.com.de/htx-crypto-gem-hunt-8-7-breakout-projects-signal-the-next-wave-of-long-term-crypto-value/

    HTX New Listing Winners

    The Selected Seven Assets: From Meme Coins and GameFi to DeFi and L1 Narratives

    HTX’s Crypto Gem Hunt #8 features seven cherry-picked assets from several trending sectors with prosperous narratives. These sectors cover meme coins, GameFi, DeFi and RWA innovations, and public blockchain infrastructure.

    L1 Public Chain: Time-Honored Infrastructure, New Catalysts

    • TRON ($TRX) | Rated S: TRON’s native token $TRX was recently adopted by Nasdaq-listed firm SRM as part of its strategic reserve, making TRON one of the first blockchain networks bridging into U.S. capital markets. This also makes TRON as a battle-tested Layer 1 network with a fresh off-chain narrative. While its price move of +16.7% is modest, its global exposure and off-chain integration signal a longer-term value growth.

    Meme Coins: Narrative Continues with Strong Community Backing

    • BONK ($BONK): As one of Solana’s OG meme coins, $BONK is back in the spotlight, thanks to the Solana ecosystem revival. According to LetsBONK.fun, BONK has surpassed Pump.fun in on-chain activity, gaining a 193.2% surge over the period.
    • MemeCore ($M): The top gainer, with a jaw-dropping +378.3% performance. Recently listed on both HTX and BN futures markets, its liquidity and social buzz continue to scale.
    • Banana For Scale ($BANANAS31): A dark horse from the BNB Chain, up 347% since launch. Fueled by the light-hearted vibe and community energy, its memetic power still shows further viral marketing potential.
    • Build On BNB ($BOBBSC): Another rising star of meme coin on BNB Smart Chain, $BOBBSC has surged over 200%, leveraging the BNB ecosystem’s benefits. It now plays at a low market cap, ideal for early value investment.

    GameFi: Legacy Tokens, New Momentum

    • FUNToken ($FUN): A veteran in the GameFi space, now seeing renewed interest. With a robust tokenomics model and real in-game utility, $FUN has rebounded nearly by 94%, positioning itself as a strong recovery asset in the GameFi comeback story.

    DeFi + RWA: Real-World Asset Tokenization Heats Up

    • Maple Finance ($SYRUP): The rising star of DeFi’s institutional pivot, specializing in on-chain credit and RWA lending. While Maple is tokenizing high-quality real-world assets with strong compliance narratives, $SYRUP has gained a 71.1% increase since its launch on HTX, driven by demand for yield-generating, regulation-friendly assets.

    Beyond the Charts: Why These Projects Matter

    These seven assets in HTX’s Crypto Gem Hunt #8 share a key trait: they are actively delivering on their narratives, not just promising them. From TRON’s growing real-world footprint to BONK’s strong rise on Solana, from the explosive virality of MemeCore and Build On BNB to the yield-driven momentum of Maple behind RWA’s building, these aren’t flash-in-the-pan plays. They’re structurally supported stories with runway left to go.

    HTX’s research team carefully tracks narrative fulfillment, not just speculation. This forward-focused methodology aims to help users identify long-term value, especially as retail sentiment continues to chase short-term price spikes. As the market heats up and narratives rotate at breakneck speed, the report stands as a reminder that the next bull cycle won’t be won by hype alone and the true gems may already be on-chain yet underexposed.

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

    To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/deca9b48-dad7-4a6d-8fe4-3af239cdbffc

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b5e38fd-5db0-44c2-9ccf-4718fe9e6bdc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: PBS and NPR are generally unbiased, independent of government propaganda and provide key benefits to US democracy

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Stephanie A. (Sam) Martin, Frank and Bethine Church Endowed Chair of Public Affairs, Boise State University

    Congress’ cuts to public broadcasting will diminish the range and volume of the free press and the independent reporting it provides. MicroStockHub-iStock/Getty Images Plus

    Champions of the almost entirely party-line vote in the U.S. Senate to erase US$1.1 billion in already approved funds for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting called their action a refusal to subsidize liberal media.

    “Public broadcasting has long been overtaken by partisan activists,” said U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, insisting there is no need for government to fund what he regards as biased media. “If you want to watch the left-wing propaganda, turn on MSNBC,” Cruz said.

    Accusing the media of liberal bias has been a consistent conservative complaint since the civil rights era, when white Southerners insisted news outlets were slanting their stories against segregation. During his presidential campaign in 1964, U.S. Sen. Barry Goldwater of Arizona complained that the media was against him, an accusation that has been repeated by every Republican presidential candidate since.

    But those charges of bias rarely survive empirical scrutiny.

    As chair of a public policy institute devoted to strengthening deliberative democracy, I have written two books about the media and the presidency, and another about media ethics. My research traces how news institutions shape civic life and why healthy democracies rely on journalism that is independent of both market pressure and partisan talking points.

    That independence in the United States – enshrined in the press freedom clause of the First Amendment – gives journalists the ability to hold government accountable, expose abuses of power and thereby support democracy.

    GOP Sen. Ted Cruz speaks to reporters as Senate Republicans vote on President Donald Trump’s request to cancel about $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting spending on July 16, 2025.
    AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

    Trusting independence

    Ad Fontes Media, a self-described “public benefit company” whose mission is to rate media for credibility and bias, have placed the reporting of “PBS NewsHour” under 10 points left of the ideological center. They label it as both “reliable” and based in “analysis/fact.” “Fox and Friends,” by contrast, the popular morning show on Fox News, is nearly 20 points to the right. The scale starts at zero and runs 42 points to the left to measure progressive bias and 42 points to the right to measure conservative bias. Ratings are provided by three-person panels comprising left-, right- and center-leaning reviewers.

    A 2020 peer-reviewed study in Science Advances that tracked more than 6,000 political reporters likewise found “no evidence of liberal media bias” in the stories they chose to cover, even though most journalists are more left-leaning than the rest of the population.

    A similar 2016 study published in Public Opinion Quarterly said that media are more similar than dissimilar and, excepting political scandals, “major
    news organizations present topics in a largely nonpartisan manner,
    casting neither Democrats nor Republicans in a particularly favorable
    or unfavorable light    .”

    Surveys show public media’s audiences do not see it as biased. A national poll of likely voters released July 14, 2025, found that 53% of respondents trust public media to report news “fully, accurately and fairly,” while only 35% extend that trust to “the media in general.” A majority also opposed eliminating federal support.

    Contrast these numbers with attitudes about public broadcasters such as MTVA in Hungary or the TVP in Poland, where the state controls most content. Protests in Budapest October 2024 drew thousands demanding an end to “propaganda.” Oxford’s Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism reports that TVP is the least trusted news outlet in the country.

    While critics sometimes conflate American public broadcasting with state-run outlets, the structures are very different.

    Safeguards for editorial freedom

    In state-run media systems, a government agency hires editors, dictates coverage and provides full funding from the treasury. Public officials determine – or make up – what is newsworthy. Individual media operations survive only so long as the party in power is happy.

    Public broadcasting in the U.S. works in almost exactly the opposite way: The Corporation for Public Broadcasting is a private nonprofit with a statutory “firewall” that forbids political interference.

    More than 70% of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s federal appropriation for 2025 of US$1.1 billion flows through to roughly 1,500 independently governed local stations, most of which are NPR or PBS affiliates but some of which are unaffiliated community broadcasters. CPB headquarters retains only about 5% of that federal funding.

    Stations survive by combining this modest federal grant money with listener donations, underwriting and foundation support. That creates a diversified revenue mix that further safeguards their editorial freedom.

    And while stations share content, each also has latitude when it comes to programming and news coverage, especially at the local level.

    As a public-private partnership, individual communities mostly own the public broadcasting system and its affiliate stations. Congress allocates funds, while community nonprofits, university boards, state authorities or other local license holders actually own and run the stations. Individual monthly donors are often called “members” and sometimes have voting rights in station-governance matters. Membership contributions make up the largest share of revenue for most stations, providing another safeguard for editorial independence.

    A host and guest in July 2024 sit inside a recording studio at KMXT, the public radio station on Kodiak Island in Alaska.
    Nathaniel Herz/Northern Journal

    Broadly shared civic commons

    And then there are public media’s critical benefits to democracy itself.

    A 2021 report from the European Broadcasting Union links public broadcasting with higher voter turnout, better factual knowledge and lower susceptibility to extremist rhetoric.

    Experts warn that even small cuts will exacerbate an already pernicious problem with political disinformation in the U.S., as citizens lose access to free information that fosters media literacy and encourages trust across demographics.

    In many ways, public media remains the last broadly shared civic commons. It is both commercial-free and independently edited.

    Another study, by the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg School in 2022, affirmed that “countries with independent and well-funded public broadcasting systems also consistently have stronger democracies.”

    The study highlighted how public media works to bridge divides and foster understanding across polarized groups. Unlike commercial media, where the profit motive often creates incentives to emphasize conflict and sensationalism, public media generally seeks to provide balanced perspectives that encourage dialogue and mutual respect. Reports are often longer and more in-depth than those by other news outlets.

    Such attention to nuance provides a critical counterweight to the fragmented, often hyperpartisan news bubbles that pervade cable news and social media. And this skillful, more balanced treatment helps to ameliorate political polarization and misinformation.

    In all, public media’s unique structure and mission make democracy healthier in the U.S. and across the world. Public media prioritizes education and civic enlightenment. It gives citizens important tools for navigating complex issues to make informed decisions – whether those decisions are about whom to vote for or about public policy itself. Maintaining and strengthening public broadcasting preserves media diversity and advances important principles of self-government.

    Congress’ cuts to public broadcasting will diminish the range and volume of the free press and the independent reporting it provides. Ronald Reagan once described a free press as vital for the United States to succeed in its “noble experiment in self-government.” From that perspective, more independent reporting – not less – will prove the best remedy for any worry about partisan spin.

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

    – ref. PBS and NPR are generally unbiased, independent of government propaganda and provide key benefits to US democracy – https://theconversation.com/pbs-and-npr-are-generally-unbiased-independent-of-government-propaganda-and-provide-key-benefits-to-us-democracy-261512

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada grants $1,859,000 to Just For Laughs Festival

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Montréal, Quebec, July 21, 2025

    This year, the Just For Laughs Festival is back in Montréal from July 16 to 27 with new diverse programming where festive comic entertainment is front stage!

    Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), along with the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced a total of $1,859,000 in funding for the Just For Laughs Festival.

    CED is providing a non-repayable contribution of $1,359,000 under its Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP) for the 2025 and 2026 editions of the festival. This assistance serves to support the promotion and marketing of the event, in addition to fostering the development of new products.

    For its part, Canadian Heritage is providing $500,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund to support the 2025 edition of the festival. This funding will allow audiences to access rich bilingual programming, including comedy shows of all kinds.

    Quotes

    “The Just For Laughs Festival is one of our metropolis’s flagship events which, on top of generating significant economic impacts, helps to position Montréal as the world capital of festivals. That is why our government is today announcing significant funding to attract festivalgoers from all walks of life and to provide the public with a renewed experience. Congratulations to the entire team! I invite Montréalers and tourists from home and abroad to take advantage of a rich program that illustrates our diversity and cultural vitality!”

    – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for CED

    “The Just For Laughs Festival is an integral part of Montréal’s cultural life. By showcasing both established artists and emerging talents, this major international event reflects the vitality, creativity and strength of our comedy scene. Our new government is proud to support this festival, which perfectly embodies the richness of our culture. Don’t miss this great opportunity to come together and laugh!”

    – The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages

    Quick facts

    • Montréal’s Just For Laughs Festival is the largest comedy festival in the world, a must-attend event that, every summer, transforms the metropolis into the world capital of laughter. For over 40 years, it has been celebrating humour in all its forms, bringing together renowned artists, rising stars and the next generation of talent in a rich, daring, inclusive program.
    • CED’s Quebec Economic Development Program helps communities seize economic development and diversification opportunities that are promising for the future.
    • The Canada Arts Presentation Fund provides financial assistance to organizations that professionally present arts festivals or performing arts series. It also supports organizations that offer support to arts presenters.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Isabella Orozco-Madison
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    isabella.orozco-madison@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    514-283-7443
    media@dec-ced.gc.ca

    Hermine Landry
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages
    hermine.landry@pch.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Canadian Heritage
    media@pch.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ozak AI Surpasses $1.39 Million in Token Sales as Presale Enters Fourth Phase

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ozak AI, a decentralized analytics and automation platform integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with blockchain infrastructure, has announced the successful completion of over $1.39 million in token sales as part of its ongoing presale. The project is currently in Phase 4 of its presale at a token price of $0.005, with plans to increase to $0.01 in the upcoming fifth stage.

    Built on a framework combining AI, the Ozak Stream Network (OSN), and Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN), Ozak AI aims to offer real-time data analytics and autonomous financial decision-making systems for enterprise-level users.

    Technology and System Overview

    At the core of Ozak AI’s infrastructure is DePIN, which uses blockchain and IPFS technologies to process data securely across distributed nodes. This decentralized setup enhances data availability and resilience by eliminating centralized failure points.

    Complementing this is OSN, which delivers verifiable data from multiple sources to ensure system-wide integrity. These systems support the platform’s long-term objective of providing an autonomous environment for predictive modeling and financial automation.

    Token Metrics and Presale Details

    Ozak AI’s presale is structured in stages:

    • Stage 1: $0.001
    • Stage 2: $0.002
    • Stage 3: $0.003
    • Stage 4: $0.005 (Current Phase)

    To date, 38,751,733.267 tokens have been sold out of the 200 million allocated in the current stage. The total supply of $OZ tokens is capped at 10 billion, with allocations reserved for presale participants, community initiatives, ecosystem development, liquidity provision, and team incentives.

    The platform has been listed on CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko, increasing its visibility among digital asset users. A community giveaway is also active: holders with at least $100 worth of $OZ tokens will be entered into a draw to win a share of a $1 million prize pool, distributed among 100 winners.

    Use Cases and Practical Deployment

    Ozak AI integrates predictive AI agents to assist with financial modeling, risk assessment, and real-time automation. Its distributed data structure allows seamless interactions between IoT devices, smart contracts, and data-driven systems.

    The platform’s decentralized approach supports uninterrupted access to operational data, strengthening its value proposition for sectors reliant on accurate, real-time information.

    About Ozak AI
    Ozak AI is a blockchain-powered AI platform focused on secure, autonomous financial analytics and system automation. The project combines decentralized infrastructure with advanced data processing tools to support a range of enterprise and financial applications.

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

    Media Contact:
    Andres Brinc
    media@ozak.ai

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1db032bb-d4cf-4954-adce-041ab5eb028b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Caisse Française de Financement Local EMTN 2025-14

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, 21 July 2025

    Capitalised terms used herein shall have the meaning specified for such terms in the Caisse Française de Financement Local base prospectus to the €75,000,000,000 Euro Medium Term Note Programme dated 10 June 2025 (the “Base Prospectus”).

    Caisse Française de Financement Local has decided to issue on 23 July 2025 – Euro 60,000,000 Floating Rate Obligations Foncières due 23 July 2040.

    The Base Prospectus dated 10 June 2025 approved by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers and the Final Terms relating to the issue are available on the website of the Issuer (https://sfil.fr/caffil-notre-filiale/), on the website of the AMF (www.amf-france.org), and with the Paying Agent indicated in the Base Prospectus.

    The Final Terms relating to the issue will be available on the website of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange (www.bourse.lu).

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Annual Meetings record project preparation deals expected to unlock about US$ 1.0 billion in investments

    Source: APO

    The 32nd Annual Meetings of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), also known as AAM2025, witnessed a flurry of deal signings with four project preparation transactions signed between the Bank and various entities that are expected to unlock investments valued at about US$ 1.0 billion.

    In an agreement signed by Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, for Afreximbank, and Mrs. Temwani Simwaka, CEO, for NBS Bank Plc (NBS), Malawi, the two institutions executed a Joint Project Preparation Facility Framework Agreement under which they will pool resources to provide early project preparatory financing to progress projects in Malawi from pre-feasibility stage to bankability in a timely manner.

    As set out in the agreement, Afreximbank and NBS will support public and private sector investors by availing financing and technical support services to de-risk projects in priority sectors, including energy, transport and logistics, logistical platforms (such as special economic zones and industrial parks), manufacturing, agro-processing, hospitality and tourism, extractives, solid minerals, and services (such as ICT, healthcare, and creative economy). Embedded in the framework agreement is a capacity building programme that will empower NBS staff to undertake project preparation activities in the medium term.

    Afreximbank and NBS expect to bring onstream investments of about US$ 300 million in Malawi in the near term.

    In another transaction, Afreximbank signed a US$ 4.4-million Project Preparation Facility Agreement in favour of Med Aditus Pharmaceutical Kenya Limited. The facility will be deployed to finance the preparation of feasibility and bankability studies towards the development of a state-of-the-art fill and finish pharmaceutical manufacturing plant, with a production capacity of at least two billion tablets and capsules per annum, located in Kibos, Kisumu County, Kenya.

    The project will improve access to quality, affordable life-saving medicines across the Great Lakes region, contributing to better health outcomes in a region that contends with heavy loads of infectious and other diseases. The project will also facilitate medical and manufacturing blockchain technology transfer to Africa, supporting the long-term growth and strengthening the wider region’s health sector. The project preparation facility will bring onstream assets of about US$ 40 million.

    Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, signed the agreement on behalf of Afreximbank while Dr. Dhiren Thakker, Founder and CEO of Med Aditus Pharma, signed for his company.

    Afreximbank also signed a Heads of Terms agreement for a US$4.4-million project preparation facility in favour of Green Hybrid Power Private Limited. The facility will be deployed towards the preparation of bankability and feasibility studies and procurement of transaction advisors for a 1-Gigawatt (GW) hybrid floating solar photovoltaic power system on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe.

    The project, to be implemented in two phases, includes a pilot phase targeting a generation capacity of 500 MW to be sold wholly to the Intensive Energy Users Group, a consortium of blue-chip industrial and mining energy users in Zimbabwe, under a “take-or-pay” 20-year power purchase agreement with a cost-reflective tariff. The project is expected to supply affordable and reliable power that will support value-addition and beneficiation of Zimbabwe’s minerals, thereby boosting the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

    The project preparation facility will unlock an investment estimated at US$ 350 million.

    Signing the agreement were Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, on behalf of Afreximbank, and Mr. Eddie Cross, Chairman, for Green Hybrid Power Private Limited.

    Afreximbank, in addition, signed a Project Preparation Facility Heads of Terms Agreement of US$ 4.0 million in favour of Proton Energy Limited, a Nigerian independent power producer. The facility will be deployed towards financing the preparation of feasibility studies and procurement of transaction advisory services for the development of a grid-connected gas-fired power plant with a nameplate capacity of 500 MW in Sapele, Nigeria. The project will commence with an initial generation capacity of 150 MW.

    The project will evacuate the electricity generated primarily to Eko Electricity Distribution Company under a 20-year power purchase agreement with a cost-reflective tariff.

    The facility is expected to bring on stream assets estimated at US$ 300 million.

    Signing the agreement were Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, on behalf of Afreximbank, and Mr. Oti Ikomi, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, for Proton Energy Limited.

    AAM2025 took place from 25 to 28 June and attracted an estimated 8,000 participants, including presidents, prime ministers, ministers and business leaders, from across Africa, the Caribbean and beyond. It ended with the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders where Dr. George Elombi was appointed the next President of the Bank who succeeds Prof. Benedict Oramah whose tenure is ending after two five-year terms in the position.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Media Contact:
    Vincent Musumba
    Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
    Email: press@afreximbank.com

    Follow us on:
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    About Afreximbank:
    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

    For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City centre’s first distillery and bar now open in Derby Market Hall

    Source: City of Derby

    A brand-new distillery and bar is now open in Derby Market Hall, bringing locally crafted spirits, cocktails, and a stylish new venue to the heart of the city centre.

    The Spirit Run Distillery and Bar officially opened its doors to the public on Saturday 19 July, with the occasion being marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the leader of Derby City Council, Councillor Nadine Peatfield.

    The new venue will join the list of growing traders at Derby Market Hall, a Grade II-listed Victorian building in the heart of the city. The Spirit Run is the latest venture from Darley Abbey Wines, situated in the newly renovated former Poultry Market space, adjoining Osnabruck Square.

    The distillery offers a truly unique experience to visitors, allowing customers to admire the iconic stills while enjoying a cocktail, refreshing gin, or a glass of wine. It will offer high-quality spirits crafted in bespoke, British-made copper stills, built by Somerset company, BritStill. 

    Innovative gin and cocktail experiences will also be available to customers, guiding them on an immersive journey through the process before tasting. These experiences, and the venue itself, can be booked for mixed groups or private parties.

    The bar will specialise in spirits, featuring a strong cocktail menu and showcasing The Spirit Run’s own creations alongside those from other local distillers and well-known brands. Customers can also choose from a range of draft beers, including selections from Derbyshire’s Thornbridge brewery, and explore a select rotating list of ‘discovery wines’ for an ambitious tasting experience. 

    The Spirit Run is also teaming up with fellow Derby Market Hall traders, including Cheeky Pancakes and Japanese street food trader SHIO, to offer customers some tasty small plates to go with their favourite drink. Keep a look out for IZAKAYA – a new Sunday Japanese Brunch Club featuring sushi and small plates from SHIO, paired with drinks from The Spirit Run. The event will feature on Sundays in September.

    The new addition forms part of Derby Market Hall’s phased reopening, which has seen several new traders joining the historic building in recent months. More traders are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. 

    Nichol Malia-Barlow, owner of The Spirit Run, said:

    I’m absolutely thrilled that The Spirit Run is now open. We’ve had an amazing opportunity to bring something truly unique to the heart of Derby as the city centre’s first distillery. The historic Market Hall is the perfect location for The Spirit Run.

    Not only will customers have a place where they can socialise and catch up with friends over drinks, but they’ll also be able to see their favourite wines, gin, rum, and more, being produced in the distillery. We welcome everyone to come and view the transformed space.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Strategy, Regeneration and Policy, said:

    It was an absolute pleasure to be a part of the opening of The Spirit Run on Saturday 19 July. The Spirit Run is a perfect addition to the iconic Derby Market Hall, offering a truly unique experience to each visitor as the first distillery in Derby’s city centre. 

    I’m really proud that we are showcasing the best of Derby and Derbyshire’s local talent. The Market Hall is thriving and offers something truly unique to each visitor. I’m looking forward to announcing more traders soon.

    I also can’t wait to try a cocktail that’s been made in the Market Hall; gin just happens to be my favourite tipple!

    Darley Abbey Wines, which began as a wine merchant in 2007, has steadily expanded its offerings. They opened a popular wine bar at Darley Abbey Mills, known for its live music and tasting events, and established Darley Abbey Distillery in 2020. Located at the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, their home is a seventeenth-century cotton mill which once produced the finest cotton thread. Today, Darley Abbey Wines expertly crafts fine spirits in small batches, honouring the building’s rich history. 

    Their first gin, The Uncommon Thread London Dry, launched in November 2022 to great success. The new Derby Market Hall distillery will allow them to increase production, expand existing and new brands, and facilitate exciting small-batch local projects and collaborations.

    The iconic Derby Market Hall reopened in May following a £35.1 million restoration, creating a vibrant venue that brings together the best of the region’s independent shopping, eating, drinking, and entertainment under one beautiful roof. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –