Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI Security: Successful operation disrupts organised crime network, as four sentenced to 17 years

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Four members of an organised crime network, which stole more than one million pounds worth of jewellery from London’s South Asian community, have been jailed for a total of 17 years and one month.

    Three of the four men were caught red-handed by the Met as a result of a one-year, intelligence-led operation that spanned London and the Home Counties.

    Jerry O’Donnell, 33, Barney Maloney, Quey Adger, 23 and Patrick Ward, 43, were sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 11 July. They previously pleaded guilty to burglary.

    In July 2024, O’Donnell, Maloney, Adger were detained while carrying stolen jewellery.

    CCTV enquiries identified their car as being involved in multiple burglaries. Specialist officers acted quickly and pursued the vehicle while on the move, leading to a forced stop. The trio were arrested after officers found hundreds of items inside, including a gold wedding ring, gold necklaces and a solid gold hair pin.

    Ward was arrested separately at his home address shortly after. Intelligence obtained during the investigation identified him as a member of the organised crime network with close links to the three men previously arrested.

    Detective Sergeant Lee Davison, who led the Met’s proactive investigation, said: “This comprehensive operation enabled us to disrupt a key part of an organised crime network. As a result of the work conducted by specialist officers, a handful of serial criminals will now spend a substantial amount of time behind bars.

    “While the monetary value of this crime is staggering, its sentimental worth is priceless. I hope these men spend a lot of time reflecting on the impact their actions have had on the community.”

    Over the course of the investigation, Met officers also carried out a warrant at a jewellery shop in Hatton Garden where they believed stolen gold was being melted down and sold. There they recovered £50,000 in cash and eight kilos of jewellery.

    The jewellery included items such as a World War One officer’s Rolex, a gold locket containing old pictures, an engraved gold ring, and a gold pocket watch from Harlow Bros Ltd.

    While the most identifiable items were reunited with their rightful owners, after dozens of people came forward following a media appeal in March, detectives are still looking to identify the owners of the remaining jewellery and urge anyone who may have been a victim to contact police.

    The items were stolen between December 2023 and July 2024 from properties across south London, including Croydon, Sutton and Wandsworth – as well as counties including Surrey, Sussex and Essex. These burglaries largely targeted the South Asian community throughout the capital.

    Anyone who may have been a victim can contact the Met on 101, quoting 01/1113701/24.

    Jerry O’Donnell, 33 (01.11.1991) of Old Maidstone Road, Sidcup was jailed for five years and three months.

    Barney Maloney, 19 (13.10.2005) of Hovefields Avenue, Wickford was imprisoned for five years and three months.

    Quey Adger, 23 (01.03.2001) of Hovefields Avenue, Wickford was jailed for five years and seven months.

    Patrick Ward, 43 (10.06.1981) of Balham Grove, Balham was imprisoned for two years and five months.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Open call to artists for maritime-themed micro-commissions

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Locally-based artists are being invited by Aberdeen Art Gallery to submit proposals for small-scale commissions which respond to the theme of Aberdeen as a maritime city and its relationship with the North Sea.  
     
    Micro-commissions are funded by the Friends of Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums and are open to creative practitioners (artists, makers, musicians, dancers, designers, writers and performers) living in AB postcode areas.  
     
    The making period for Micro-commissions is 12 weeks, in which the artist will have developed and realised their proposed work(s). There are two levels of funding: one commission of £2,500 and two commissions of £1,000.  

    This is the six round of Micro-commissions to be offered by the Art Gallery and the fourth to be supported by the Friends of Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums. The programme was originally  established with funding awarded to the Art Gallery as a joint winner of Art Fund Museum of the Year in 2020.  Since 2021, 34 artists have been received funding through the Micro-commissions project to make new works which are breathing new life and bringing fresh perspectives into the collection.  
     
    Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesman, said: “Aberdeen is justifiably proud of its maritime heritage, and the Tall Ships Races is giving us all an incredible opportunity to celebrate that this summer. I’m delighted that this this latest round of Micro-commissions is embracing the theme of Aberdeen as a maritime city and its relationship with the North Sea. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the resulting artworks.” 
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada grants nearly $1.8M to promote Festival d’été de Québec

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Marketing outside Quebec

    Québec, Quebec, July 11, 2025 Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions and Canadian Heritage (PCH)

    The Government of Canada is granting a total of $1,750,000 in financial support to the Festival d’été de Québec (FEQ). This must-attend multi-genre musical event taking place on the Plains of Abraham and at other locations across downtown Québec attracts numerous tourists every year thanks to performances by local and international groups and artists. The aim of this funding is to market the FEQ so as to attract visitors from outside Quebec, maintain the summer event’s relevance and appeal by enhancing the tourism experience, and provide better access to works by professional artists.

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), and the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, made the announcement today.

    The Government of Canada is providing the following financial assistance:

    • A non-repayable contribution of $1.2 million under CED’s Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP). This funding enables the FEQ to engage in promotional activities internationally, to renew its brand image and to develop new products to enhance festivalgoers’ experience at the 2025 and 2026 editions.
    • A $550,000 grant for the FEQ’s 2025 edition through Canadian Heritage’s Canada Arts Presentation Fund. This funding enables the organization to launch a rich program including internationally renowned artists, in addition to providing an exceptional showcase for the next generation of artists.

    Quotes

    “The CED support announced today attests to our government’s willingness to support the tourism industry and to reaffirm its assistance for flagship organizations across Quebec’s different regions. The funding provided to the FEQ represents an important lever to increase the region’s appeal. Through our investments in cultural, musical and tourism experiences, we reaffirm our commitment to welcoming visitors from home and abroad to the beautiful city of Québec.”

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

    “The Festival d’été de Québec is a flagship summer event that brings to life the Plains of Abraham and a multitude of other locations at the heart of the magnificent city of Québec. This major musical gathering, which shines the spotlight on both recognized and emerging artists, offers varied programming that attracts over one million festivalgoers every year. Our government is proud to support this artistic effervescence and to contribute to the success of an event that really brings people together. I wish everyone a great festival!”

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

    “The Government of Canada has long been an ally of the Festival d’été de Québec, and its support makes all the difference to us. Thanks to its valuable financial contribution, we can promote the event well beyond our borders, showcase a range of wonderfully diverse Canadian artists, and provide the community with programming that is both rich and inclusive.”

    Nicolas Racine, President and CEO, FEQ

    Quick facts

    • CED is the key federal player in Quebec to promote economic development in the regions and among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
    • CED’s Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP) aims to help 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 (arts presenters) and organizations that offer support to arts presenters.

    Stay connected

    Follow CED on social media
    Consult CED’s news

    Follow PCH on social media

    Sources

    Isabella Orozco-Madison
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
    Email: isabella.orozco-madison@ised-isde.gc.ca
    Tel.: 613-222-1387

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

    Information

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

    Canadian Heritage
    media@pch.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: From retail to cybersecurity, Malaysians are gaining skills and confidence to succeed with AI

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: From retail to cybersecurity, Malaysians are gaining skills and confidence to succeed with AI

    Turning AI fears into optimism  

    As AI advances, many worry it may make human skills and certain jobs obsolete. This “fear of obsolescence” or “FOBO” is real: 73% of Malaysians believe AI will lead to job losses, according to an Ipsos poll from January 2025.  

    Anselm Ong, a sales associate at KLIA, understands FOBO well. “I used to think AI would take over human jobs,” he admits. But his fears gave way to a new sense of optimism after joining the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC)’s Microsoft AI TEACH program.  

    The program showed Anselm how to prompt using tools like Microsoft Copilot to automate repetitive tasks, analyze sales data, and improve customer engagement. Now, AI has become a valuable daily companion.   

    Anselm didn’t keep his skills to himself — he began teaching colleagues and friends how to use AI too. “If AI can help me, it can help others,” he says. “It’s a huge leap for all of us.” 

    Anselm’s experience shows that with the right skills, anyone can thrive in the era of AI. His advice? “Don’t be afraid to explore AI. Ask questions, think outside the box, and be brave.”

    Supercharging passion and creativity 

    AI isn’t just transforming work, it’s also helping Malaysians to unlock creativity and pursue passions that once felt out of reach. 

    For Mimi Sahila, a conveyancing clerk from Selangor, AI fueled her creativity in unexpected ways. Outside her day job, Mimi shares a love of music with her husband, Adrin. While music had always been something they enjoyed together, things changed when Mimi joined the MCMC-Microsoft AI TEACH program.  

    “The program helped me see AI in a new way. AI wasn’t just used at work – we could use it for something we love”, Mimi shares. Using Microsoft Copilot, they began co-creating lyrics, brainstorming themes, and building the stories behind their songs.  

    “We still inject our own stories into every piece, and Copilot helps get us started when we’re stuck. It’s like having a creative buddy,” says Mimi. Neither Mimi nor Adrin were tech experts, but their story proves anyone can grow, connect, and create with AI.

    Leveling the playing field for women 

    Growing up in a small town in Terengganu, Syafiqah Amirah had big dreams of landing a career in cybersecurity – an industry where women currently represent only 14% of professionals across the Asia Pacific region. Despite the barriers, she was determined to build a future in technology and joined Microsoft’s Ready4AI&Security skilling program.  

    The program helped Syafiqah gain the tools, technical skills, and confidence she needed to stand out during her cybersecurity internship, ultimately landing her a full-time role as an Associate Detection Engineer.  

    “AI has helped me strengthen my ability to detect threats and respond faster,” Syafiqah explains. From summarizing logs to generating insights from complex data, AI tools now support her daily work.   

    Building an inclusive AI future for Malaysia 

    Malaysians like Anselm, Mimi, and Syafiqah are proving that AI can complement and augment human potential. For AI to uplift everyone, inclusive skilling, trusted infrastructure, and a supportive ecosystem are essential. 

    Microsoft, through its BINA AI Malaysia commitment, is working alongside government, industry, and communities to build an AI-ready nation. Initiatives like AI for Malaysia’s Future are driving AI skilling opportunities at all levels of society, with over 400,000 Malaysians equipped to date and a target to upskill 800,000 by the end of 2025. 

    As part of BINA AI Malaysia, Microsoft is also partnering with the National AI Office (NAIO), EY and PETRONAS Leadership Centre to create the Microsoft National AI Innovation Center. The Center will serve as a dedicated hub for building Malaysia’s AI capabilities and accelerating Malaysia’s AI development. 

    Together, these efforts will help ensure that AI isn’t just powering the workplace, but creating opportunities for every Malaysian to thrive in the growing AI economy. 

    Start your own AI journey today with the Microsoft AI Skills Navigator: aka.ms/aiskillsnavigator.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Announces Double Deposit Bonus, 100x Leverage & No KYC as Bitcoin Surpasses $110,000

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The cryptocurrency market is in the midst of an explosive bull run, with Bitcoin recently breaking the $110,000 mark, sparking excitement and renewed interest among traders and investors globally. As the digital asset class continues to mature, BexBack Exchange is capitalizing on this surge by offering unrivaled trading conditions to both new and seasoned crypto traders.

    With volatility surging and Bitcoin prices sky-high, now is the time to capitalize on cryptocurrency’s potential. To help investors maximize returns in this new bull market, BexBack is rolling out some of the most competitive offers in the industry.

    Why Choose BexBack Now?

    • 100x Leverage: Traders can now use up to 100x leverage on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major crypto futures. This allows you to magnify your potential returns and maximize the opportunities in this high-volatility market.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: To help you get the most out of your investments, BexBack is offering a 100% deposit bonus. Simply deposit funds, and BexBack will match your deposit, doubling your capital to increase your trading power.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus: New users who register and deposit 100 USDT or 0.001 BTC or more and make their first transaction can receive a $50 welcome bonus. No KYC required, easy and convenient – just a simple reward to start your trading journey.
    • No KYC: Enjoy seamless trading without the need for complex identity verification. BexBack ensures a fast, secure, and anonymous trading experience.

    How to Maximize Your Gains with 100x Leverage

    With 100x leverage, you can control larger positions with smaller amounts of capital. For example:

    • If Bitcoin is trading at $110,000, and you open a position with 1 BTC, you effectively control 100 BTC.
    • If Bitcoin’s price increases by 5% to $115,500, your profit could be 5 BTC (an ROI of 500%).

    Leverage is a powerful tool, but it’s essential to use it wisely. With higher risk comes the potential for higher returns—so understanding your risk tolerance and setting stop losses is key to protecting your capital.

    BexBack: Trusted by Over 500,000 Traders Worldwide

    As one of the leading platforms for cryptocurrency futures trading, BexBack provides exceptional leverage options and cutting-edge tools for traders of all levels. The platform is trusted by over 500,000 traders around the world, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support. BexBack also holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license, further ensuring security and reliability for all users.

    How to Get Started

    1. Sign Up: Register for a BexBack account.
    2. Deposit Funds: Fund your account to claim your 100% deposit bonus and start trading.
    3. Start Trading: Use the $50 welcome bonus to kick off your crypto futures journey and leverage up to 100x to maximize your profits.

    Don’t Miss Out—Join BexBack Now!

    With Bitcoin surging past $110,000 and the crypto market showing no signs of slowing down, now is the perfect time to make your move. BexBack offers the tools, leverage, and bonuses you need to succeed in this thriving market.

    Sign Up Now and Start Trading with 100x Leverage, Claim Your 100% Deposit Bonus, and Get a $50 Welcome Bonus!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. 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/ba2913d2-aa88-4fd6-832f-1cd9e0a9187a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aa447277-904c-45a7-b97f-64bb97f8d630

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/38c47f73-6d3b-4303-9cc9-dd5e29dca9e1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9ac79ad8-145a-4109-b6b7-64367e66ec7c

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung’s WindFree™ Air Conditioner Turns Up the Heat This Winter

    Source: Samsung

     
     
    Temperatures have dropped across the country, and Samsung is inviting households to rethink how they keep warm this winter. Traditionally seen as a summer-only solution, air conditioners are stepping into a new season of relevance. With Samsung’s innovative WindFree Air Conditioning range, families no longer have to choose between staying warm and staying healthy.
     
    Samsung’s WindFree gently disperses warmth while reducing cold drafts and irritation to sinuses and sensitive skin. This intelligent climate control solution is changing the game and challenging the outdated idea that air conditioners are just for cooling. As more people prioritise wellness and smarter living, the WindFree range is designed for total comfort, all year round.
     
    Healthier Homes for the Whole Family
    As South Africans spend more time indoors during the colder months, indoor air quality becomes more important than ever. The WindFree units are equipped with Samsung’s advanced filtration system, which captures dust, allergens and bacteria. For families with small children, people with asthma, or wellness-conscious individuals, this is more than comfort – it’s peace of mind.
     
    Sleep Better, Feel Better
    Temperature swings at night can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tired the next day. Samsung WindFree units (only AR9500 and AR8500) use AI Auto Comfort and Good Sleep Mode to help maintain a stable environment throughout the night. The result? Improved sleep quality, better mood, and more energy to be productive and conquer your daily routine.
     

     
    Quiet, Energy-Efficient Heating
    Noise and high energy bills shouldn’t come with winter heating. Samsung WindFree units operate at ultra-low noise levels – making them perfect for remote work, meditation, or family movie nights. And thanks to AI-powered energy efficiency, models like the AR8500 and AR9500, they adapt to your usage patterns and room conditions to optimise performance and reduce electricity consumption. This makes them a sustainable choice during the winter season.
     

    The AR8500 air conditioner combines powerful cooling performance with sleek design, making it an ideal choice for modern homes. Equipped with advanced Digital Inverter technology, it provides efficient and energy-saving operation while maintaining a comfortable temperature.

     

    The AR9500 elevates comfort with its premium features and smart cooling technology. It offers precise temperature control through AI-powered sensors that adapt to your environment, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency.

     
    Smarter Living Starts Here
    With built-in SmartThings1 compatibility, you can control your premium WindFree unit from your smartphone, set schedules, monitor energy usage, and even receive maintenance alerts – all with a tap. Whether you’re a parent trying to maintain a healthy environment for your kids, someone managing allergies or asthma, or simply seeking a quieter, more energy-efficient way to stay warm, Samsung’s WindFree range is the intelligent choice for the modern home.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Activates Limited-Time $5 Price Rollback in Presale Ahead of LBank Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S), a next-generation dual-consensus blockchain project, has announced a limited-time Price Rollback, dropping the presale price of BTC-S tokens from $11 to just $5. This rollback, launched in Phase 11 of the presale, comes as the project prepares for its upcoming listing on LBank Exchange, marking a significant milestone in its rapid growth trajectory.

    The announcement comes amid renewed enthusiasm in the crypto market, with Bitcoin ETFs attracting $14.4 billion in institutional capital in 2025 alone. While traditional finance embraces digital assets through ETF vehicles, Bitcoin Solaris is positioning itself as a ground-floor opportunity for retail users seeking direct participation, rewards, and utility.

    A Blockchain Built for Everyday Users

    Bitcoin Solaris is designed to provide broad accessibility and utility through its dual-layer blockchain, combining Proof-of-Work (PoW) for security with Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) for scalability. The network delivers:

    • Speeds of up to 10,000 transactions per second
    • 2-second finality
    • Validator rotation every 24 hours
    • Smart contracts in Rust
    • Optional privacy via Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs)
    • Advanced bridging for cross-chain interoperability

    Through the Solaris Nova App, users can mine BTC-S tokens from mobile or desktop devices with zero technical expertise, further lowering the barrier to blockchain participation.

    Presale Performance and Key Metrics

    Bitcoin Solaris has seen rapid adoption, with the presale currently in its 11th phase:

    • Over 14,150 users have already joined
    • More than $6.6 million raised
    • Launch price set at $20, offering current buyers significant upside
    • Presale projected to conclude in approximately 3 weeks

    The newly introduced $5 Price Rollback reflects both community momentum and confidence in the project’s roadmap. The rollback is live now, with no codes or restrictions required.

    To ensure secure delivery of tokens post-launch, participants are encouraged to use wallets such as Trust Wallet or MetaMask.

    Tokenomics Designed for Fairness and Longevity

    Following in the footsteps of Bitcoin’s supply structure, BTC-S has a fixed total supply of 21 million tokens, ensuring scarcity and long-term sustainability. The distribution model is as follows:

    • 66.66% allocated to mining (over a 90-year period)
    • 20% for presale
    • 5% for liquidity
    • 2% for ecosystem development
    • 2% for community rewards
    • 2% for staking
    • 2% for marketing
    • 0.33% for team and advisors

    This allocation model is designed to support decentralization, incentivize participation, and ensure transparency over time.

    Upcoming Exchange Listing on LBank

    Bitcoin Solaris will be listed on LBank Exchange, a globally recognized cryptocurrency trading platform, shortly after the presale concludes. The listing will provide early adopters with immediate liquidity and trading options, as well as increased exposure to new global audiences.

    Built-in Utility: Daily Blockchain Gaming Rewards

    The BTC-S ecosystem also features blockchain-based gaming that rewards users through a daily spin system, with tiers based on contribution levels:

    • All BTC-S holders receive free daily spins
    • Users spending $250+ can earn up to 5% in bonus BTC-S
    • Users spending $1,000+ are eligible for up to 13% bonus
    • High-tier participants spending $2,500+ can win up to 0.5 BTC

    These reward features are accessible without requiring staking or token lock-up, providing instant and engaging utility for the community.

    Real Hype. Real People. Real Reviews.

    Crypto Twitter and YouTube are already buzzing. A detailed review by Crypto Show lays out exactly why Bitcoin Solaris has caught fire in recent weeks. From the tech to the mining app to the presale structure, it’s a combination that’s hard to ignore.

    Community activity is surging on Telegram and X, where new users are joining daily and sharing their presale milestones and spins.

    About Bitcoin Solaris

    Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S) is a high-speed, reward-based blockchain project focused on decentralization, real-world utility, and broad accessibility. Its technology stack incorporates dual-consensus architecture, scalable infrastructure, and user-first design features such as mobile mining and gamified incentives. With a fair tokenomics model, a growing community, and a strategic exchange listing on the horizon, Bitcoin Solaris aims to become a leading force in the next wave of blockchain adoption.

    Key Dates and Details

    • Current Presale Price: $5 (limited-time rollback from $11)
    • Launch Price: $20
    • Presale Phase: 11
    • Estimated Time Remaining: ~3 weeks
    • Exchange Listing: LBank (Post-presale)
    • Total Supply: 21 million BTC-S

    Additional Resources

    Media Contact:
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Bitcoin Solaris. 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/e3af768d-03ef-45a5-b37e-84fd0bbf481c

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/58b74923-e684-482c-9306-12dafff76127

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab103f16-c12f-4bee-bdbc-a7ff848c3766

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c715a684-0bf0-4cd7-a623-07fcd8a775e7

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: IRS says churches may endorse political candidates despite a decades-old federal statute barring them from doing that

    Source: The Conversation – USA (3) – By Lloyd Hitoshi Mayer, Professor of Law, University of Notre Dame

    Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo speaks at a church in Harlem during his failed campaign to become the Democratic nominee in the 2025 New York City mayoral race. Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu via Getty Images

    Churches and other houses of worship can endorse political candidates without risking the loss of their tax-exempt status, the Internal Revenue Service said in a legal document the tax-collection agency filed on July 7, 2025. This guidance is at odds with a law Congress passed more than 70 years ago that’s known as the Johnson Amendment and applies to all charitable nonprofits, whether they are secular or religious.

    The Conversation U.S. asked Lloyd Hitoshi Mayer, a law professor who has studied the regulation of churches’ political activities, to explain what this statute is, how the IRS seeks to change its purview and why this matters.

    What’s the Johnson Amendment?

    The Johnson Amendment is a provision that Lyndon B. Johnson added to a tax bill passed by Congress in 1954, when he was a senator. It says that any charity that wants to be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code cannot “participate in, or intervene in … any political campaign on behalf of … any candidate for public office.” In the U.S., all houses of worship are designated as charities by the IRS.

    The IRS has interpreted the Johnson Amendment for more than 70 years to mean that charities cannot speak in favor of political candidates or take any other action that supports or opposes them.

    The IRS is prohibited from publicly disclosing audits of specific tax-exempt nonprofits under taxpayer privacy laws, so there’s no way to know the extent to which the law has been enforced. The public only learns about audits tied to possible Johnson Amendment violations if the nonprofit discloses that information or the IRS revoked their tax-exempt status.

    However, the IRS did conduct a broad enforcement campaign in the 2000s known as the Political Activity Compliance Initiative. The reports it issued for 2004 and 2006 stated that it had audited hundreds of charities, including churches, for possible Johnson Amendment violations. The IRS generally found that most violations were minor and often inadvertent – warranting no more than a warning letter.

    It’s unknown whether any nonprofits lost their tax-exempt status as a result of this initiative, which the IRS appears to have ended in 2008.

    There’s only one known instance of a church losing its tax-exempt status because it violated the Johnson Amendment. In that case, a church in Binghamton, New York, published full-page newspaper ads criticizing Bill Clinton during his 1992 presidential campaign.

    Why does the Trump administration want to change its enforcement?

    The National Religious Broadcasters, two churches and another religious nonprofit sued the IRS in 2024, challenging the constitutionality of the Johnson Amendment on First Amendment free speech and free exercise of religion grounds and on Fifth Amendment due process grounds. The plaintiffs also argued that applying the Johnson Amendment to religious nonprofits violated the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

    The plaintiffs and the IRS filed a joint motion on July 7 to settle the case. They asked the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas to order the IRS not to enforce the Johnson Amendment against the two church plaintiffs. They also asked the court to incorporate in its order a statement that the Johnson Amendment does not apply to “speech by a house of worship to its congregation, in connection with religious services through its customary channels of communication on matters of faith, concerning electoral politics viewed through the lens of religious faith.”

    This represents the first time the IRS has said there’s an exception to the Johnson Amendment for houses of worship. While lawmakers have periodically sought to repeal or modify the statute, neither chamber of Congress has ever passed such legislation.

    President Donald Trump asserted during his first term that he had “gotten rid of” the Johnson Amendment. But that referred to his 2017 executive order that directed the Treasury Department – to which the IRS belongs – to respect freedom of religion with respect to religious organizations speaking about political issues as “consistent with law.”

    Under the IRS interpretation of the Johnson Amendment at the time, it would not have been consistent with law for churches or other religious nonprofits to support or oppose candidates for elected public office.

    How might the IRS treat religious political activity differently?

    If the court approves this new joint motion, that order will only apply to the two churches that are plaintiffs in the case – not other religious nonprofits or the National Religious Broadcasters that joined them in suing the IRS. But the filing tells other houses of worship that the IRS will not enforce the Johnson Amendment against them for speech to their congregations, at least not during the Trump administration.

    I think that the government may have a hard time applying this exception for several reasons.

    The IRS will have to determine when a charity is a “church,” the term the IRS uses for a house of worship of any faith. That has become increasingly difficult in recent years, as some organizations that stretch the conventional definition of a church have won IRS recognition as such.

    The IRS will also have to clarify what constitutes speech made “in connection with religious services” and what are “customary channels of communication.” For example, it’s unclear whether inviting a political candidate to address the congregation about how their religious faith relates to their candidacy falls within the exception.

    Donald Trump participates in a community roundtable at a church in Detroit during his successful 2024 presidential campaign.
    Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

    Will only conservative politicians benefit?

    Establishing this exception does not necessarily give conservative politicians any advantages.

    It is true that recent attempts to repeal or modify the Johnson Amendment are associated with conservative Christian groups such as the Alliance Defending Freedom, which represented the plaintiffs in this lawsuit.

    But historically, many progressive houses of worship have also pushed against the Johnson Amendment, including Black churches that often serve as political as well as religious centers for their communities.

    A Texas Tribune and ProPublica investigation documented apparent violations of the Johnson Amendment in the 2022 midterm elections by almost 20 churches in Texas from across the political spectrum. Interestingly, most of the church leaders involved were aware of the amendment.

    Many said they were not violating it because they avoided explicitly endorsing candidates, while at the same time clearly expressing their support for specific candidates by, for example, praying for an individual who was identified to the congregation as a candidate.

    How could this new guidance change political campaigning?

    Americans generally don’t want to see churches get involved in politics, including majorities in most denominations. Nonetheless, church leaders of all stripes who were already inclined to support particular candidates will probably feel emboldened to explicitly endorse candidates when preaching to their congregations.

    There are two ways that this new exception could do more than that.

    First, it isn’t limited to sermons by pastors, priests, rabbis, imams and other religious leaders. It extends to any speech to a house of worship’s congregation “in connection with religious services through its customary channels of communication on matters of faith.” It therefore almost certainly includes church bulletins and other written materials distributed as part of a religious service.

    What’s less clear is whether “customary channels of communication” includes people who watch religious services streamed over the internet or on TV, rather than just those who attend services in person.

    Second, the change will increase pressure on church leaders to support candidates.

    For example, George W. Bush’s 2004 campaign reportedly sought to recruit thousands of congregations to distribute campaign information. It’s natural to expect such efforts to multiply and become more direct for both Democratic and Republican candidates from now on.

    And church leaders will also likely face pressure from politically active congregants to endorse candidates, and have a harder time resisting it.

    Lloyd Hitoshi Mayer previously worked at the law firm of Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered, including when the firm represented All Saints Episcopal Church of Pasadena, California with respect to an IRS audit of the church for allegedly violating the Johnson Amendment. He was not personally involved in this representation.

    ref. IRS says churches may endorse political candidates despite a decades-old federal statute barring them from doing that – https://theconversation.com/irs-says-churches-may-endorse-political-candidates-despite-a-decades-old-federal-statute-barring-them-from-doing-that-260854

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Cyabra Uncovers Iranian Bot Operation Undermining UK Democracy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cyabra Strategy Ltd. (“Cyabra”), the AI-powered platform for real-time disinformation detection, has uncovered a coordinated Iranian state-backed bot network designed to infiltrate and influence online discourse around Scottish independence. Active between May and June 2025, the campaign aimed to manipulate UK political sentiment, promote Iranian-aligned narratives, and deepen domestic divisions.

    Cyabra’s investigation found that 26% of accounts engaging in Scottish independence conversations on X (formerly Twitter) were fake, publishing more than 3,000 coordinated messages. These accounts blended pro-independence, anti-Brexit, and anti-UK institutional themes to mimic grassroots sentiment and sway opinion in Iran’s favor.

    The campaign experienced a defining disruption beginning June 13, 2025, immediately following a military escalation between Israel and Iran. The Iranian-linked network went silent for 16 days—then reemerged with renewed coordination and a messaging pivot, praising Iran’s strength and mocking the West. This behavioral shift offered clear evidence of state-backed orchestration behind the campaign.

    “The sudden disruption to Iran’s influence operations capabilities due to their war with Israel exposed the entire operation,” said Dan Brahmy, CEO of Cyabra. “It was like watching state-backed disinformation self-destruct in real time. When Iran paused, so did the bots revealing the strategy, the propaganda, and the 224 million views their fake campaign had already amassed.”

    The network deployed AI-generated personas, recycled content, and strategic use of hashtags like #ScottishIndependence, #FreeScotland, and #BrexitBetrayal to infiltrate legitimate conversations. Cyabra’s platform traced these behaviors to known Iranian influence tactics.

    Importantly, authentic users unknowingly amplified the manipulated content, further obscuring the line between real discourse and engineered narratives.

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

    Download the full report here: Iranian Bot Network Exposed After a 16-Day Silence

    About Cyabra
    Cyabra is a real-time AI-powered platform that uncovers and analyzes online disinformation and misinformation by uncovering fake profiles, harmful narratives, and GenAI content across social media and digital news channels. Cyabra’s AI solutions protect corporations and governments against brand reputation risks, election manipulation, foreign interference, and other online threats. Cyabra’s platform leverages proprietary algorithms and NLP solutions, gathering and analyzing publicly available data to provide clear, actionable insights and real-time alerts that inform critical decision-making. Cyabra uncovers the good, bad, and fake online.

    For more information, visit www.cyabra.com.

    Media Contact:
    Jill Burkes
    Jill@cyabra.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    ir@cyabra.com

    About Trailblazer
    Trailblazer is a blank check company formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, recapitalization, reorganization, or other similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. For more information, visit: www.trailblazermergercorp.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to certain products and services that are the subject of a proposed transaction (the “Business Combination”) between Trailblazer and Cyabra. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding Cyabra’s business strategy, products and services, research and development costs, plans and objectives of management for future operations, and future results of current and anticipated product offerings, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, but not limited to, the following risks relating to the proposed transaction: the ability to complete the Business Combination or, if Trailblazer does not consummate such Business Combination, any other

    initial business combination; expectations regarding Cyabra’s strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products and services, pricing, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and Cyabra’s ability to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Trailblazer or Cyabra following announcement of the Business Combination Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein; the inability to complete the proposed Business Combination due to, among other things, the failure to obtain Trailblazer stockholder approval; the risk that the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination disrupts Cyabra’s current operations and future plans; the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination; unexpected costs related to the proposed Business Combination; the amount of any redemptions by existing holders of Trailblazer’s common stock being greater than expected; limited liquidity and trading of Trailblazer’s securities; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; the size of the addressable markets for Cyabra’s products and services; the possibility that Trailblazer and/or Cyabra may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; the ability to obtain and/or maintain the listing of the combined company’s common stock on Nasdaq following the Business Combination; operational risk; and the risks that the consummation of the proposed Business Combination is substantially delayed or does not occur.

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

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

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

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

    Participants in the Solicitation
    Cyabra, Trailblazer, and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from Trailblazer stockholders regarding the proposed Business Combination. Information about Trailblazer’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Trailblazer’s securities is set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus pertaining to the proposed Business Combination.

    No Offer or Solicitation
    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval. No sale of securities shall occur in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful before registration or qualification under applicable laws.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Brag House to Be Featured on RedChip Small Stocks, Big Money™ Show on Bloomberg TV

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brag House Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TBH) (“Brag House” or the “Company”), the media-tech platform at the intersection of gaming, college sports, and Gen Z engagement is excited to announce that CEO and Co-Founder, Lavell Juan Malloy II, will be featured on the RedChip Small Stocks, Big Money™ show, airing on Bloomberg TV this Saturday, July 12, at 7 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). Bloomberg TV reaches an estimated 73 million homes across the United States.

    Watch the full interview at:

    Brag House: Setting the New Standard for Gen Z Brand Engagement

    Brag House is revolutionizing how brands capture the attention and loyalty of Gen Z, leveraging a cutting-edge social gaming and data-driven platform that seamlessly fuses college sports rivalries, casual gaming, and vibrant community interaction. In an exclusive interview, CEO and Co-Founder Lavell Juan Malloy II reveals how Brag House is not just connecting brands to Gen Z, it’s creating immersive digital experiences that drive authentic engagement and measurable results.

    What sets Brag House apart:

    • Elite partnerships with industry giants like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, the Denver Broncos, and Learfield, validating our platform’s reach and effectiveness.
    • Unrivaled engagement metrics, consistently achieving CPC and CPM rates far below industry norms, delivering superior value to brand partners.
    • A powerful national expansion, propelled by our strategic alliance with Learfield, now spanning more than 200 universities across the country.
    • A robust, multi-tiered monetization strategy and scalable B2B data solutions that unlock new revenue streams and actionable insights for partners.
    • A unique position at the crossroads of gaming, advertising, and analytics, enabling Brag House to shape the future of digital brand engagement in three explosive markets.

    About Brag House
    Brag House is a leading media technology gaming platform dedicated to transforming casual college gaming into a vibrant, community-driven experience. By seamlessly merging gaming, social interaction, and cutting-edge technology, the Company provides an inclusive and engaging environment for casual gamers while enabling brands to authentically connect with the influential Gen Z demographic. For more information, visit www.braghouse.com.

    Media Contact:
    Fatema Bhabrawala
    Director of Media Relations
    fbhabrawala@allianceadvisors.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Adele Carey
    VP, Investor Relations
    ir@thebraghouse.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Spotted lanternflies love grapevines, and that’s bad for Pennsylvania’s wine industry

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Flor Acevedo, Assistant Professor of Entomology, Penn State

    Adult spotted lanternflies infest areas of Pennsylvania from July to December. Lauren A. Little/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images

    Spotted lanternfly season is back in Pennsylvania. The polka-dotted, gray-and-red-winged adult insects make their appearance each July and tend to hang around until December. It’s an unwelcome summer ritual that started in 2014 when the invasive pests were first detected in the U.S.

    The Conversation U.S. talked to Flor Acevedo, an assistant professor of entomology at Penn State University, about the bugs and her research on how lanternflies are threatening the state’s vineyards and wine industry.

    Does Pennsylvania have many vineyards?

    Pennsylvania has more than 400 wineries with about 14,000 acres planted in vineyards, according to the Pennsylvania Wine Association. The industry generates about US$7 billion in total economic activity. Erie County, where I live, has about 70% of Pennsylvania’s vineyard acreage, with the rest scattered across the state.

    What do lanternflies do to grapevines?

    The spotted lanternfly feeds on many plants, but its preferred hosts are the Tree of Heaven, an invasive plant introduced to Philadelphia from China in 1784, and grapevines.

    Entomologist Flor Acevedo counts spotted lanternflies on a Tree of Heaven plant.
    Flor E. Acevedo

    Extensive feeding by these sap-sucking insects can weaken grapevines and, when combined with other stressors such as diseases or frosty winters, can kill the vines. While spotted lanternflies feed on other important crops such as apple trees, they have been lethal only to grapevines and Tree of Heaven plants.

    Feeding can also reduce yield and fruit quality, which affects juice and wine quality.

    Tell us about your lanternfly experiments

    My lab initially investigated whether spotted lanternflies could survive to adulthood and reproduce when feeding exclusively on grapevines. This would help us determine whether the insects could thrive in regions with extensive grapevine cultivation.

    We found they do survive, but their fitness is severely reduced. Insects feeding solely on grapevines had high mortality, slower development and laid fewer eggs when compared with those that had access to a mixed diet of Tree of Heaven and grapevines.

    Our next question was whether different grapes would be equally suitable for spotted lanternfly survival and reproduction. In the U.S. we grow native grapevines such as Concord and muscadine as well as vines of European origin. We found that spotted lanternflies did not survive to adulthood when they fed only on muscadine grapevines.

    We have also partnered with colleagues specialized in plant science, food science and agricultural economics to investigate the effects of spotted lanternfly feeding on grapevine yield and wine and juice quality.

    This research group enclosed both red and white grapevines – Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay – in mesh cages in the field and infested them with between 20 and 350 spotted lanternflies per vine. We wanted to determine the effect of constant adult insect feeding on grapevine yield, fruit sugars and phenolics, which are chemical compounds that are important for wine color, flavor and aroma. We also wanted to know the density of infestation that would induce changes in yield and fruit and wine quality.

    Researchers infested grapevines with lanternflies to see how they affect yield and fruit quality.
    Flor E. Acevedo

    We found a decrease in sugar content in the fruit within a single season, as well as a decrease in phenolics in red wine. We also found a reduction in yield after the second year of consecutive insect feeding.

    These findings suggest that, if not controlled, spotted lanternfly adult feeding could reduce income to growers by reducing yield and could affect the wine industry by reducing the quality of the drink.

    How worried are Pennsylvania winemakers and how are they responding?

    Perceptions vary depending on whether the winery or vineyard is in an area that has already been infested.

    Those that have been dealing with lanternflies for a few years have established protocols for pest monitoring and applying insecticides. But those that haven’t experienced it yet are concerned about the insect’s arrival on their properties.

    Owners of organic vineyards are also concerned, but there are few of those in this region.

    Wineries are being affected by spotted lanternflies in at least two ways. First, for those that grow grapes, lanternflies have increased their costs due to the extra labor and insecticide applications needed to control them. Second, for wineries that are agrotourism sites, they need to keep outdoor seating spaces neat and free from lanternflies.

    Spotted lanternfly nymphs crawl across a Tree of Heaven stem.
    Natalie Kolb/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images

    As an entomologist, what do you find most fascinating about these creatures?

    Most insects that feed on plants lay their eggs close to a food source for the young to feed on when they hatch. But spotted lanternflies lay their eggs on almost anything – car tires, field equipment, rocks, fabrics, old wood, cardboard. This behavior facilitates the insect’s dispersal, as eggs can be easily transported without being noticed. Once the eggs hatch, the nymphs search for young plant shoots or herbaceous plants to eat.

    Anything else people in Pennsylvania should know as they see lanternflies again this summer?

    I think it’s important for the public to know that, as pretty as some of us may find spotted lanternflies, these insects are invasive, damaging and affecting the state economy. Everybody can help stop the spread of these insects by killing and avoiding transporting them at any living stage.

    Spotted lanternflies lay eggs in masses. These masses look like light grayish-brown, mudlike or puttylike patches, typically about an inch long, and they are found on various surfaces. At any life stage the insects can be killed by squishing them, immersing them in hand sanitizer or freezing them for several days.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.

    Flor Acevedo has received funding for her research from the USDA Crop Protection and Pest Management program (2023-70006-40597), the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the Pennsylvania Wine Marketing and Research Board, the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, the Penn State University College of Agriculture, and the John H. and Timothy R. Crouch Endowment Grant for Viticulture, Enology, and Pomology Research.

    ref. Spotted lanternflies love grapevines, and that’s bad for Pennsylvania’s wine industry – https://theconversation.com/spotted-lanternflies-love-grapevines-and-thats-bad-for-pennsylvanias-wine-industry-260374

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester welcomes Oasis fans from around the world to the city for epic homecoming concerts

    Source: City of Manchester

    With the first of Oasis’ homecoming gigs now only a matter of hours away, Manchester is going all out to extend the biggest of Mancunian welcomes to all fans of the legendary band who were lucky enoug

    The sold-out shows will see 340,000 fans from across the globe descend on Manchester over the course of the next week and city bosses have pulled out all the stops to both dress the city and help make sure everyone has a great time, with a packed programme of fantastic music themed events and activities across the city centre as part of its MCR Live ’25 campaign.

    Music fans with or without tickets to see the boys from Burnage are invited to get themselves into the city centre this weekend and over the next few weeks and enjoy everything on offer.

    There’s block parties in the Northern Quarter with live music and djs, a fantastic market selling all music related stuff on St Peter’s Square, pop-up live music performances, the Manchester Live hub bar with its Manchester themed drinks and stage with live acts and DJs in Piccadilly Gardens, and a whole week of Oasis themed stuff going on at Manchester’s award-winning Central Library. 

    Plus there’s an absolutely brilliant guitar trail Music for the Senses now open across the city – with fabulous guitars that have been turned into stunning works of art by some amazing artists, including ‘Guitar Street’ a whole street that has got guitars strung across it like bunting, each one with the face of an up-and-coming young Manchester musician on it, and ‘Cathedral of Sound’ in St Peter’s Square – an incredible huge metal dome structure that’s been completely covered in real guitars by artist Lazerian, that you can walk around and walk through and is both beautiful and awe-inspiring.

    There’s also a whole bunch of guitars to see as part of the trail that have been donated by famous faces – including of course one from Oasis which has been signed by Liam and Noel and is going to be auctioned off at the end of the summer along with all the others, to raise money for grassroots music projects and venues in the city.

    So whether you’ve got your ticket and are looking for something to do on your way through to the big gig, or you’re one of the unlucky ones without, the centre of Manchester is where it’s at. There’s a brilliant atmosphere right across the city, and with pre-show parties, after-shows, and a whole lot more going on, it’s definitely the place to be, especially for anyone who doesn’t have a ticket to the big gigs this weekend themselves. 

    Music fans who don’t have tickets shouldn’t travel to Heaton Park – they should come instead to the city centre and enjoy what’s on offer there.

    There are no facilities for them at the park and they will not be able to see the concert or get into the event arena – which is double-walled with solid high security fencing all the way round and in excess of 2000 event security staff and police officers on duty around the site to ensure both the safety and wellbeing of ticketholders and that only those who have tickets access the concert.  Measures will also be in place to clear the park of all non-ticket holders before the concert gets properly underway.

    Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester is known the world over for our fantastic music scene which this summer alone will see 1.3m music tourists visit the city.

    “The additional boost to the city’s economy – already one of the fastest growing in Europe – from music fans is huge and is felt right across the hospitality and retail sector, with hundreds of thousands of pounds spent by them in our hotels, bars, restaurants, and shops.  

    “We’re all set to welcome music fans from across the globe into Manchester today and this next week for what is going to be a supersonic string of hometown dates from Liam and Noel.

    “The whole city is going all out to celebrate and help everyone have a good time. We’ve got some fantastic things going on with a real party atmosphere for everyone to enjoy, whether they have tickets for the Oasis gigs or not. Anyone without a ticket though shouldn’t travel to Heaton Park, there’s nothing for them to see or do there. They should get themselves into the city centre instead where there’s a fantastic atmosphere with an absolute ton of things happening on gig days to get involved in and enjoy, and to make sure everyone has a brilliant time.”

    Find out the full lowdown on everything that’s happening as part of MCR Live ’25 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Selects Instruments for Artemis Lunar Terrain Vehicle

    Source: NASA

    NASA has selected three instruments to travel to the Moon, with two planned for integration onto an LTV (Lunar Terrain Vehicle) and one for a future orbital opportunity.
    The LTV is part of NASA’s efforts to explore the lunar surface as part of the Artemis campaign and is the first crew-driven vehicle to operate on the Moon in more than 50 years. Designed to hold up to two astronauts, as well as operate remotely without a crew, this surface vehicle will enable NASA to achieve more of its science and exploration goals over a wide swath of lunar terrain.
    “The Artemis Lunar Terrain Vehicle will transport humanity farther than ever before across the lunar frontier on an epic journey of scientific exploration and discovery,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “By combining the best of human and robotic exploration, the science instruments selected for the LTV will make discoveries that inform us about Earth’s nearest neighbor as well as benefit the health and safety of our astronauts and spacecraft on the Moon.”
    The Artemis Infrared Reflectance and Emission Spectrometer (AIRES) will identify, quantify, and map lunar minerals and volatiles, which are materials that evaporate easily, like water, ammonia, or carbon dioxide. The instrument will capture spectral data overlaid on visible light images of both specific features of interest and broad panoramas to discover the distribution of minerals and volatiles across the Moon’s south polar region. The AIRES instrument team is led by Phil Christensen from Arizona State University in Tempe.
    The Lunar Microwave Active-Passive Spectrometer (L-MAPS) will help define what is below the Moon’s surface and search for possible locations of ice. Containing both a spectrometer and a ground-penetrating radar, the instrument suite will measure temperature, density, and subsurface structures to more than 131 feet (40 meters) below the surface. The L-MAPS instrument team is led by Matthew Siegler from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
    When combined, the data from the two instruments will paint a picture of the components of the lunar surface and subsurface to support human exploration and will uncover clues to the history of rocky worlds in our solar system. The instruments also will help scientists characterize the Moon’s resources, including what the Moon is made of, potential locations of ice, and how the Moon changes over time.
    In addition to the instruments selected for integration onto the LTV, NASA also selected the Ultra-Compact Imaging Spectrometer for the Moon (UCIS-Moon) for a future orbital flight opportunity. The instrument will provide regional context to the discoveries made from the LTV. From above, UCIS-Moon will map the Moon’s geology and volatiles and measure how human activity affects those volatiles. The spectrometer also will help identify scientifically valuable areas for astronauts to collect lunar samples, while its wide-view images provide the overall context for where these samples will be collected. The UCIS-Moon instrument will provide the Moon’s highest spatial resolution data of surface lunar water, mineral makeup, and thermophysical properties. The UCIS-Moon instrument team is led by Abigail Fraeman from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.
    “Together, these three scientific instruments will make significant progress in answering key questions about what minerals and volatiles are present on and under the surface of the Moon,” said Joel Kearns, deputy associate administrator for Exploration, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. “With these instruments riding on the LTV and in orbit, we will be able to characterize the surface not only where astronauts explore, but also across the south polar region of the Moon, offering exciting opportunities for scientific discovery and exploration for years to come.”
    Leading up to these instrument selections, NASA has worked with all three lunar terrain vehicle vendors – Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab – to complete their preliminary design reviews. This review demonstrates that the initial design of each commercial lunar rover meets all of NASA’s system requirements and shows that the correct design options have been selected, interfaces have been identified, and verification methods have been described. NASA will evaluate the task order proposals received from each LTV vendor and make a selection decision on the demonstration mission by the end of 2025. 
    Through Artemis, NASA will address high priority science questions, focusing on those that are best accomplished by on-site human explorers on and around the Moon by using robotic surface and orbiting systems. The Artemis missions will send astronauts to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars.
    To learn more about Artemis, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/artemis
    -end-
    Karen Fox / Molly WasserHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / molly.l.wasser@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Ripple’s XRP Joins Forces with AI Mining: PFMCrypto Launches Hassle-Free XRP Cloud Mining with Daily Payouts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Ripple’s XRP ecosystem gains global momentum, PFMCrypto is proud to introduce a major leap in accessible crypto mining: the launch of XRP-focused cloud mining contracts. Now available on both web and mobile platforms, these flexible short-term contracts allow users to mine XRP remotely and receive daily XRP rewards—no mining hardware, no complex setup, and no prior experience required. For the first time, retail participants can engage with the XRP economy through a streamlined, fully integrated platform.
    Explore the PFMCrypto website or download the app today.

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

    Key Features of PFMCrypto’s XRP Cloud Mining Contracts
    –  Full XRP Integration: Deposit, purchase, mine, and withdraw XRP directly within the platform.
    –  Multi-Coin Mining Support: Mine and receive earnings in BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, USDT, SOL, LTC, and BCH.
    –  AI Revenue Optimization: Proprietary algorithms automatically allocate mining power to the top-performing assets to maximize returns.
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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner highlights apprenticeship program helping underrepresented youth break into careers in California’s iconic entertainment industry

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 10, 2025

    What you need to know: To help mark Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, the First Partner visits an apprenticeship program that is helping opportunity youth—including women of color—break into careers in Hollywood’s below-the-line workforce.

    LOS ANGELES—First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom earlier this week visited an innovative apprenticeship program aimed at opening up more career pathways for underrepresented youth in the entertainment industry—including women of color.  

    In a visit to The Handy Foundation offices and a sound stage and production training facility at the local 80 (IATSE) offices, Siebel Newsom met with program apprentices, instructors, alumni, and a few of the entertainment industry partners that employ its graduates, including Netflix, Lionsgate, and Bunim-Murray Productions, a part of Banijay Americas. The Handy Foundation apprenticeship program helps train young people for “below-the-line” roles in the entertainment industry, from assistant editing, to production and post management, audio and virtual production roles, and more.

    A strategic partner of the California Film Commission, the Handy Foundation is also a 2025 recipient of the state’s California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship (COYA) Grant, which offers pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs for youth across the state.  

    “California is the global center of the creative economy and more young Californians—from all walks of life—should be able to pursue career paths within our iconic entertainment industry. Our apprenticeship grants and programs like this show us what’s possible when we invest in real pathways to good jobs, fair pay, and long-term careers. Our economy works best when it works for everyone.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    “Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to connect young people to meaningful, high-wage careers. The Handy Foundation is demonstrating how apprenticeships can bring together labor and industry to expand access and equity across California’s film and television workforce. Their program reflects key elements of the Governor’s Master Plan for Career Education and shows what’s possible through investments like our COYA grants, which support community-based organizations that are connecting opportunity youth to long-term career pathways.” — Stewart Knox, Secretary of Labor & Workforce Development.

    Last month, Governor Newsom helped support the expansion of the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program to a $750 million credit package, which is helping protect jobs, strengthen small businesses, and re-invest in California’s iconic creative economy. Together, with the tax credits and the Governor’s Career Master Plan for Education, the State of California is not only helping boost entertainment production, it is investing in building more pathways from the classroom to high-wage careers, including in the entertainment industry.

    “The Governor’s expansion of the film and TV tax credit program sends a clear message: California is serious about building a stronger, more inclusive entertainment industry. That means creating real, long-term career pathways for underrepresented voices. With the support of the COYA grant, state tax credits, and our committed industry partners, we’re using tools like registered apprenticeships to help people not just get in the door, but thrive in well-paid, sustainable careers.” — Ri-Karlo Handy, CEO & Founder of The Handy Foundation.

    July 10th is Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, when advocates across the nation help bring attention to the persistent wage gap that exists for Black women. The wage gap for Black women compared to non-Hispanic white men is .66 cents vs. $1 for full time, year-round workers. 

    For Handy Foundation trainees, the fight for career opportunities and pay equity is personal. Two alumni share what the program means to them and how the Foundation is helping lead change:

    “Through the Handy Foundation, I’ve not only had the opportunity to work, but to be recognized for the operational excellence I bring to each production. As we recognize Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, it’s a reminder and a call to action. In an industry where our labor has too often been overlooked, equity is transformative. It says we belong, we lead, and we deserve to be paid accordingly.” — Brooke Nicholas, Handy Foundation Production Coordinator alum, now working in the industry. 

    “Black women have helped shape our culture, yet are still fighting for equal pay and representation. As a Mexican-American working in entertainment, I’m so grateful that an organization like the Handy Foundation exists and is helping change the industry by opening doors for voices like ours.”— Dalia Soto-Beltran, HF Assistant Editor Alum, now working in the industry.

    Launched in 2020, the Handy Foundation partners with labor unions, high schools, community colleges, government organizations, other non-profits and industry leaders to create pathways for underrepresented talent to build lasting careers in entertainment.

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  • India emerges as global creative powerhouse at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) in Mumbai, India did more than host a global gathering—it defined the future of storytelling. Leaders from the worlds of technology, media, and culture converged to witness a defining moment: India’s confident emergence as a global creative powerhouse.

    Inaugurating the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a vision that resonated far beyond the venue. He described WAVES not just as an acronym, but “a wave of culture, creativity, and universal connectivity.” India, he said, is not merely a country of over a billion people—it is a land of over a billion stories waiting to be shared with the world.

    Framing the Orange Economy as India’s next growth engine—rooted in Content, Creativity, and Culture—the Prime Minister called on global creators and investors to recognize this as the moment to “Create in India, Create for the World.” As digital platforms continue to evolve, he noted a paradox of modern media: “The screen may be getting smaller, but the scope is becoming infinite. The screen is getting micro, but the message is becoming mega.”

    This expansive vision was reflected throughout WAVES 2025. With India rapidly becoming a hub for film production, digital content, animation, gaming, music, fashion, and live experiences, the summit showcased the full spectrum of its creative and commercial potential.

    One of the major highlights was YouTube CEO Neal Mohan’s announcement of a ₹850 crore investment to accelerate India’s creator economy. He cited a thriving content ecosystem with more than 15,000 Indian YouTube channels crossing one million subscribers, declaring, “India isn’t just leading in music and film—it’s now a Creator Nation.”

    Joining Mohan were international creators Mark Rober and Gautami Kawale of Slayy Point, who emphasized the global appeal of Indian narratives. Kawale highlighted how culturally rooted regional content has found universal resonance, while Rober pointed to AI-powered dubbing and localization as key to making STEM content cross linguistic and cultural boundaries.

    Adding to the momentum, Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen hailed India as “the world’s next creative superpower.” With more than 100 million content creators and 500 million OTT consumers, India, he said, is not only consuming but now shaping global creative trends. Demonstrating Adobe’s generative AI platform Firefly, Narayen underscored the importance of ethical AI, content authenticity, and creator attribution in building a sustainable global media landscape.

    WAVES 2025 marked a turning point where ancient storytelling traditions, cutting-edge technology, and a billion ambitions converged. From reels to rituals, and scripts to software, India’s creative economy is not only ready for the world—it is already shaping it.

  • WAVES 2025: India’s creative economy sets the stage for a trillion-dollar global impact

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    WAVES 2025 has significantly energized the country’s creative economy, often referred to as the Orange Economy also. This initiative aims to foster economic activities that convert ideas, creativity, rich and diverse cultural expressions and heritage into tangible goods and services. The creative economy spans a wide range of industries including music, film, design, publishing, gaming and many more creative pursuits. This mission amply demonstrates how cultural and creative assets can also be leveraged to fuel the nation’s economic growth.

    India, a land of over 143 crore people, is also home to a billion stories and storytellers, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his address at this grand ceremony. He said, every village, street, river and mountain echoes with unique tales and perspectives. Indian art and music, deeply spiritual in nature, reflect this storytelling spirit, where every note and rhythm carries a soul whether in a devotional bhajan or a modern composition.

    The country’s creative legacy, from the pioneering film Raja Harishchandra in 1913 to global milestones like RRR winning at the Oscars, highlights the growing influence of Indian cinema and cultural expressions. From Guru Dutt’s poetic visuals to AR Rahman’s soulful music and Rajamouli’s epic narratives, Indian creativity continues to resonate across the world.

    The rise of India’s creative economy powered by content, creativity and culture, is truly transforming the country into a global hub for film, digital content, gaming, fashion, music and live performances. This sector holds immense potential to significantly contribute to India’s GDP.

    With the world looking for new stories, India stands ready to offer a rich blend of science, fiction, courage and imagination. The message is clear for the creators of the country- dream big, invest in talent and share the soul of India with the world.

    WAVES 2025 is also expected to unlock a 50 billion dollar opportunity for India’s media and entertainment sector by 2029. The summit held from 1 May to 4 May at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, attracted over 10,000 delegates, 1,000 creators, 300 companies and more than 350 startups.

    This initiative alone recorded business transactions worth over Rs. 1,328 crore with more than 3,000 business-to-business meetings held over three days. Adding further value to the summit, the Maharashtra government signed MoUs worth Rs. 8,000 crore during the event. Among these, MoUs worth Rs. 1,500 crore each were signed with the University of York and the University of Western Australia. The state’s industries department also inked MoUs valued at Rs. 3,000 crore with Prime Focus and Rs. 2,000 crore with Godrej.

    WAVES 2025 marks a turning point, launching the Global Media Dialogue with participation from 25 countries to promote international collaboration. The event also featured the WAVES Bazaar, a digital marketplace with over 6,100 buyers, 5,200 sellers and 2,100 creative projects. At the event, a landmark report by Boston Consulting Group titled ‘From Content to Commerce’ spotlighted India’s booming creator economy. It has revealed that the creative economy related activities drive over 350 billion dollar in consumer spending, which is a figure projected to cross one trillion dollar by 2030.

    With around 2.5 million active creators, India hosts one of the world’s youngest and largest digital communities. Yet, only 8-10% currently monetise meaningfully, pointing to a vast untapped economic opportunity. Creators now influence over 30% of consumer purchases through diverse content forms like short videos, tutorials and live streams. Genres like comedy, film and fashion dominate, but sectors like gaming, wellness and finance are also rapidly growing.

    The report positions India as a global content studio, powered by its linguistic diversity, cultural depth, and digital talent. With a 40-60% cost edge in animation and VFX and 25% of Indian OTT content viewed overseas, India is emerging as a hub of cultural diplomacy and soft power.

    Importantly, the creator economy is expanding beyond Gen Z and metros, reaching smaller towns, regional markets and multilingual audiences. Brands are shifting from traditional ads to creator-led campaigns, while new revenue models like virtual gifting, live commerce and fan funding are empowering creators financially.

    WAVES 2025 showcased this evolution as more than entertainment. Creators are now key drivers of commerce, culture and innovation. With supportive policies, investor’s interest and educational initiatives, India’s creator economy is poised to become a global force. The white paper on India’s Live Events Industry also highlighted the sector’s strong momentum and evolving consumer trends. Growing at a steady 15% annually, the industry added 13 billion dollar in revenue in 2024 alone.

    A notable shift is the rise of event-based tourism with nearly half a million fans traveling across cities to attend live shows. There’s also increasing demand for premium, curated experiences while tier-2 cities like Shillong, Vadodara and Jamshedpur are fast emerging as new cultural hubs.

    At WAVES 2025, Shantanu Narayen, CEO of Adobe highlighted India’s emergence as a global hub of creativity powered by digital tools and generative AI. With over 100 million content creators and 500 million OTT consumers, Narayen described India as the world’s next creative superpower. He showcased Adobe’s Firefly AI models and stressed ethical AI, content authenticity and creator attribution as vital for sustainable growth.

    On the occasion, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced a 850 crore dollar investment to accelerate India’s creator economy, citing over 15,000 Indian channels with more than one million subscribers. Joined by global creators Mark Rober and Gautami Kawale (Slayy Point), Mohan underlined YouTube’s role in taking Indian stories global. India isn’t just leading in music and film, it’s now a creator nation, he said. Kawale shared how regional Indian content, when rooted in culture, has universal appeal, while Rober spoke about the power of STEM content crossing borders through AI-enabled dubbing and localization.

    Mark Read, CEO of WPP, described the advertising industry’s one trillion dollar global footprint and its shift towards AI-led storytelling. He unveiled WPP’s open video production platform and shared a campaign featuring Shah Rukh Khan to demonstrate hyper-personalized content creation using motion AI. AI is not replacing creativity, it is expanding it, Read said, outlining the role of MSMEs and digital tools in democratizing access to quality advertising.

    Without doubt, WAVES 2025 marked a transformative moment for India’s creative economy, positioning the country as a global powerhouse of content, culture and innovation. From unlocking multi-billion-dollar opportunities to showcasing India’s rich storytelling traditions, the summit underscored the vast potential of the Orange Economy in shaping the future of commerce and cultural influence. With strong government backing, global collaborations, technological advancements like AI and growing investor confidence, India is not just participating in the global creative revolution, it is also in a position to lead it. As the world increasingly turns to stories that inspire, inform and connect, India stands ready to rise with its immense creative potential.

  • MIL-OSI: Hyperscale Data Subsidiary Ault Markets Plans to Launch StableShare in Early 2026 – A Platform for Tokenized Securities, Real Assets and Global Markets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperscale Data, Inc. (NYSE American: GPUS), a diversified holding company (“Hyperscale Data” or the “Company”), today announced that its indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, Ault Markets, Inc. (“Ault Markets”), plans to launch StableShare in the first quarter of 2026. StableShare is a next-generation platform for tokenizing public equities, private securities, real-world assets and structured finance products. The platform will be purpose-built for broker-dealers, institutional investors and other market participants seeking compliant access to digital assets backed by real-world value.

    This announcement follows recent news of Ault Markets’ plans to introduce a decentralized exchange (“DEX”), forming part of a broader strategy to build a fully integrated blockchain-based financial ecosystem. Both StableShare and the DEX are expected to be powered by Ault Blockchain, a custom Layer 1 network under development to deliver institutional-grade speed, compliance and transparency.

    “StableShare is more than just a product. We believe it represents the beginning of a borderless, fully digitized financial infrastructure,” said Milton “Todd” Ault III, Founder and Executive Chairman of Hyperscale Data. “Together with our DEX and Ault Blockchain, we are building a new foundation for how the world trades, owns and interacts with all types of assets.”

    StableShare will be designed to enable the tokenization and management of a wide range of asset classes, including public and private securities, real estate and infrastructure projects. All tokenized assets are expected to be recorded on the Ault Blockchain, supporting rapid settlement, smart contract automation and real-time transparency.

    “Ault Blockchain will be designed to be more than just rails—it is expected to be the foundation,” Ault added. “It is where we envision equity meets liquidity, where compliance meets code and where traditional finance meets the future. We look forward to sharing more information on the combined ecosystem of StableShare, the DEX and Ault Blockchain.”

    For more information on Hyperscale Data and its subsidiaries, Hyperscale Data recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read Hyperscale Data’s public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at hyperscaledata.com or available at www.sec.gov.

    About Hyperscale Data, Inc.

    Through its wholly owned subsidiary Sentinum, Inc., Hyperscale Data owns and operates a data center at which it mines digital assets and offers colocation and hosting services for the emerging artificial intelligence (“AI”) ecosystems and other industries. Hyperscale Data’s other wholly owned subsidiary, Ault Capital Group, Inc. (“ACG”), is a diversified holding company pursuing growth by acquiring undervalued businesses and disruptive technologies with a global impact.

    Hyperscale Data expects to divest itself of ACG on or about December 31, 2025 (the “Divestiture”). Upon the occurrence of the Divestiture, the Company would solely be an owner and operator of data centers to support high-performance computing services, though it may at that time continue to operate in the digital asset space as described in the Company’s filings with the SEC. Until the Divestiture occurs, the Company will continue to provide, through ACG and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries and strategic investments, mission-critical products that support a diverse range of industries, including an AI software platform, social gaming platform, equipment rental services, defense/aerospace, industrial, automotive, medical/biopharma and hotel operations. In addition, ACG is actively engaged in private credit and structured finance through a licensed lending subsidiary. Hyperscale Data’s headquarters are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 190, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

    On December 23, 2024, the Company issued one million (1,000,000) shares of a newly designated Series F Exchangeable Preferred Stock (the “Series F Preferred Stock”) to all common stockholders and holders of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on an as-converted basis. The Divestiture will occur through the voluntary exchange of the Series F Preferred Stock for shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock of ACG (collectively, the “ACG Shares”). The Company reminds its stockholders that only those holders of the Series F Preferred Stock who agree to surrender such shares, and do not properly withdraw such surrender, in the exchange offer through which the Divestiture will occur, will be entitled to receive the ACG Shares and consequently be stockholders of ACG upon the occurrence of the Divestiture.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors. More information, including potential risk factors, that could affect the Company’s business and financial results are included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, the Company’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. All filings are available at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at hyperscaledata.com.

    Hyperscale Data Investor Contact:
    IR@hyperscaledata.com or 1-888-753-2235

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Hyperscale Data Subsidiary Ault Markets Plans to Launch StableShare in Early 2026 – A Platform for Tokenized Securities, Real Assets and Global Markets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperscale Data, Inc. (NYSE American: GPUS), a diversified holding company (“Hyperscale Data” or the “Company”), today announced that its indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, Ault Markets, Inc. (“Ault Markets”), plans to launch StableShare in the first quarter of 2026. StableShare is a next-generation platform for tokenizing public equities, private securities, real-world assets and structured finance products. The platform will be purpose-built for broker-dealers, institutional investors and other market participants seeking compliant access to digital assets backed by real-world value.

    This announcement follows recent news of Ault Markets’ plans to introduce a decentralized exchange (“DEX”), forming part of a broader strategy to build a fully integrated blockchain-based financial ecosystem. Both StableShare and the DEX are expected to be powered by Ault Blockchain, a custom Layer 1 network under development to deliver institutional-grade speed, compliance and transparency.

    “StableShare is more than just a product. We believe it represents the beginning of a borderless, fully digitized financial infrastructure,” said Milton “Todd” Ault III, Founder and Executive Chairman of Hyperscale Data. “Together with our DEX and Ault Blockchain, we are building a new foundation for how the world trades, owns and interacts with all types of assets.”

    StableShare will be designed to enable the tokenization and management of a wide range of asset classes, including public and private securities, real estate and infrastructure projects. All tokenized assets are expected to be recorded on the Ault Blockchain, supporting rapid settlement, smart contract automation and real-time transparency.

    “Ault Blockchain will be designed to be more than just rails—it is expected to be the foundation,” Ault added. “It is where we envision equity meets liquidity, where compliance meets code and where traditional finance meets the future. We look forward to sharing more information on the combined ecosystem of StableShare, the DEX and Ault Blockchain.”

    For more information on Hyperscale Data and its subsidiaries, Hyperscale Data recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read Hyperscale Data’s public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at hyperscaledata.com or available at www.sec.gov.

    About Hyperscale Data, Inc.

    Through its wholly owned subsidiary Sentinum, Inc., Hyperscale Data owns and operates a data center at which it mines digital assets and offers colocation and hosting services for the emerging artificial intelligence (“AI”) ecosystems and other industries. Hyperscale Data’s other wholly owned subsidiary, Ault Capital Group, Inc. (“ACG”), is a diversified holding company pursuing growth by acquiring undervalued businesses and disruptive technologies with a global impact.

    Hyperscale Data expects to divest itself of ACG on or about December 31, 2025 (the “Divestiture”). Upon the occurrence of the Divestiture, the Company would solely be an owner and operator of data centers to support high-performance computing services, though it may at that time continue to operate in the digital asset space as described in the Company’s filings with the SEC. Until the Divestiture occurs, the Company will continue to provide, through ACG and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries and strategic investments, mission-critical products that support a diverse range of industries, including an AI software platform, social gaming platform, equipment rental services, defense/aerospace, industrial, automotive, medical/biopharma and hotel operations. In addition, ACG is actively engaged in private credit and structured finance through a licensed lending subsidiary. Hyperscale Data’s headquarters are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 190, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

    On December 23, 2024, the Company issued one million (1,000,000) shares of a newly designated Series F Exchangeable Preferred Stock (the “Series F Preferred Stock”) to all common stockholders and holders of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on an as-converted basis. The Divestiture will occur through the voluntary exchange of the Series F Preferred Stock for shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock of ACG (collectively, the “ACG Shares”). The Company reminds its stockholders that only those holders of the Series F Preferred Stock who agree to surrender such shares, and do not properly withdraw such surrender, in the exchange offer through which the Divestiture will occur, will be entitled to receive the ACG Shares and consequently be stockholders of ACG upon the occurrence of the Divestiture.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors. More information, including potential risk factors, that could affect the Company’s business and financial results are included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, the Company’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. All filings are available at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at hyperscaledata.com.

    Hyperscale Data Investor Contact:
    IR@hyperscaledata.com or 1-888-753-2235

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Twelfth isn’t for BBC and others to define, but ours to celebrate

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Thursday’s News Letter editorial rightly reminded us that the Twelfth is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration enjoyed by tens of thousands.

    It was a welcome corrective to the relentlessly negative framing that the BBC continues to push.

    Consider this: the same BBC that grants artistic merit to a republican rap group mocking IRA victims — a group that unveiled a mural of a PSNI Land Rover engulfed in flames — dedicates hours every year to every perceived misstep by working-class loyalists, with a tone of moral superiority.

    A visit to Lewes on Bonfire Night — which I have attended several times — reveals that burning effigies is not only an accepted cultural expression elsewhere in the UK but is positively promoted as a tourist attraction. Yet this context is never acknowledged by those with a predetermined narrative about the Twelfth.

    The lectures are predictable and condescending, rightly ignored by a community increasingly seeing through the hypocrisy of a publicly funded broadcaster whose output often goes unwatched.

    Concern for the loyalist community of the Donegall Road area might be taken seriously if the BBC bothered to report the fact that Sandy Row has been effectively shut to passing trade because of the work on Grand Central — an act that would provoke outrage if it happened anywhere other than a working-class loyalist area.

    If they refuse to cover the concerns of loyalism in Sandy Row or reflect the many positive aspects of marching season, I increasingly wonder if engagement is even worth it when it is only used to further their skewed coverage.

    Take Kilkeel’s Eleventh Night celebrations. For years I have encouraged the BBC to cover the event — a respectful, well-organised, family-oriented occasion — but they have never shown up. Why? Because it doesn’t fit their narrative.

    This year’s Twelfth season again demonstrated the strength of our cultural life.

    Celebrations began early with the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Banbridge District No 7 hosted the largest commemoration in NI, with tens of thousands attending in glorious sunshine.

    Other districts held smaller but no less meaningful events. Annahoe No 6 and Fivemiletown No 15 hosted a fantastic VE Day celebration featuring free inflatables for children, a barbecue, a World War Two display with vehicles from as far as County Cork, and music showcasing the community’s well-earned reputation for talent.

    My own district, Lower Iveagh No 1, hosted this year’s local Twelfth demonstration. The build-up has been fantastic: from school children forming a standing-room-only talk on Orangeism to life-defining lessons through an exhibition of SEFF (South East Fermanagh Foundation)’s unique exhibition on innocent victims of terrorism, marching and bonfire family fun and the preaching of Scripture.

    The day included one of the first Saturday Twelfths to take place in Lurgan again. Family picnics in the park were again supported by local churches, and events such as the packed pre-Twelfth BBQ in grounds hosted by my lodge, LOL 616 — attended by everyone from toddlers to those well beyond the three-score-years-and-ten — all speak to the vibrant life of our culture.

    This is the reality of Orange culture: family, history, identity, and (whisper it) Protestantism. It is not the caricature broadcast by those who neither understand nor wish to.

    Yes, there have been isolated controversies over the years — as there are in every large-scale cultural tradition — but they are the exception, not the rule, and they certainly do not define who we are.

    So don’t buy the propaganda. You are not one of tens of thousands who continue to celebrate our culture with joy and dignity.

    The truth about the BBC? The issue isn’t a bone. The problem they have with the Twelfth is the Twelfth.

    Everything it represents — Protestantism, loyalty, unapologetic cultural identity — is the antithesis of what so much of the media and politics believe we should be. The real offence, in their mind, is that Protestant communities not only dare to exist but to celebrate one day a year with a display of music and marching which in their mind has nothing to match.

    That is what really troubles them.

    The Twelfth is not for our opponents to define.
    It is ours to celebrate.

    ■ Samuel Morrison is the TUV press officer and the above piece was published in today’s News Letter.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Days Sale Kicks Off on July 12: Will Unlock AI-Powered Living with Unbeatable offers across Categories

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, announced the launch of the Samsung Days Sale, going live on July 12, exclusively on Samsung.com, Samsung Shop App and Samsung Experience Stores. This highly anticipated campaign, which will continue until July 18, 2025, brings to customers – the best offers, exclusive exchange deals, and a truly unparalleled shopping experience.
     
    Unlock the Power of AI with Samsung
     This year, Samsung Days puts a spotlight on Samsung’s cutting-edge AI-powered products —from Smartphones to TVs, Tablets, Refrigerators, and Laptops & Washing Machines — empowering customers to make their lives easier with the latest intelligent technology.
     
    Fabulous Smartphones and Laptops Deals up for Grab
    As the sale kicks off, customers can pre-order the latest Galaxy Z Fold7 & Galaxy Z Flip7 512 GB version at the price of a 256 GB version. Those purchasing the Galaxy Z Flip7 FE will get the 256GB version at the price of 128 GB. Customers can also pair up the latest Galaxy Z Fold7 & Galaxy Z Flip7 with all new Galaxy Watch8 series and get up to INR 15000 off. Whether it is the latest foldables or powerful camera-centric models, there is something for every tech enthusiast. In addition, select Galaxy tablets, accessories and wearables will be available at discount of up to 65% off, making it the perfect time to complete your Galaxy ecosystem.
     
    Not just that, users seeking a seamless and versatile tablet-like experience can avail up to 35% off on select Galaxy Book5 and Book4 laptops and elevate their workflow with Galaxy AI.
     
    Big Screen Luxury at Incredible Prices
    For those looking out to upgrade their TV viewing experience – there are some amazing offers on Vision AI TVs – such as the Neo QLED 8K TVs, OLED TVs & QLED TVs. Customers can get a Free TV or Soundbar with select TVs, up to 20% Instant Bank discount and Exchange Bonus up to ₹ 5000. Those pairing the TV with an Audio device can get up to 40%* Off on MRP of Select Audio Devices
     
     
    Smart Savings on Digital and Premium Home Appliances
    Samsung is also rolling out exclusive offers on its full suite of digital appliances. Shoppers can enjoy deals across refrigerators, washing machines & microwaves. For those seeking top-tier performance and design, select models of side-by-side refrigerators, French-door refrigerators will be up for grab at an exclusive deal of up to 49% off.
     
    Select models of washing machines will be available at up to 50% off. Additionally, they will get a generous 20-year warranty on the Digital Inverter Motor for both Fully Automatic Front Loading and Fully Automatic Top Loading machines. For easy access, the affordable EMI option is also available starting at just INR 1990 for Fully Automatic Front Loading, INR 990 for Fully Automatic Top Loading, and INR 890 for Semi-Automatic Washing Machines
     
    Upgrade to AI, Upgrade Your Life
    With Samsung’s AI-powered innovations, customers can enjoy smarter entertainment, effortless productivity, and immersive audio-visual experiences. Don’t miss your chance to upgrade and enjoy exclusive benefits, only on Samsung.com, Samsung Shop App and Samsung Experience Stores
     
    Exclusive Discounts and Offers

    Category
    Consumer Offers
    Highlight Model

    Smartphones
    Up to 41% off on MRP
    Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Edge, Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy A56, Galaxy A55, Galaxy A36, Galaxy A35, Galaxy A26
     

    Laptops
    Up to 35% off on MRP
    Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360, Galaxy Book 5 Pro, Galaxy Book5 360, Galaxy Book 4

    Tablets, Accessories & Wearables
    Up to 65% off on MRP
    Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, Galaxy Tab S10 FE, Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Galaxy Tab A9, Galaxy Buds3 Pro, Galaxy Watch7 Ultra, Galaxy Watch7 Series, Galaxy Fit3

    TVs
    – Up to 40% off on MRP
    – Free TV or Soundbar on select TVs
    – Up to 20% Instant bank discount
    – Up to ₹7,000 instant cart discount on Frame TVs
    – Exchange Bonus up to ₹5,000
    43″ Crystal UHD 43UE81F 4K Smart TV, 43″ QEF1 QLED TV, 55″ Q8F QLED TV, 55″ 55LS03F Frame TV, 65″ QN85F 4K Neo QLED, 65″ QN90F 4K OLED TV

    Refrigerators
    Up to 49% off on MRP
    – Instant cart discount up to ₹5,000*
    – Samsung Care+ Offer: 1 Year Extended Warranty worth ₹4,490 at ₹449* (Side by Side & French Door Refrigerators)
    – 20 Years warranty on Digital Inverter Compressor
    – EMI from ₹1,290
    236L Convertible Freezer Plus Double Door, 653L Convertible Side by Side, 419L Bespoke AI Double Door

    Washing Machines
    – Up to 50% off on MRP
    – Samsung Care+ Offer: 2 Year Extended Warranty worth ₹4,290 at ₹499* (Front Load)
    – 20 Years warranty on Digital Inverter Motor (Fully Automatic Top Load & Front Load)
    – EMI from ₹890
    All Front Load ≥8kg and Top Load ≥8kg

    Microwaves
    – Up to 50% off on MRP
    – 10 year warranty on Ceramic Enamel Cavity
    – EMI from ₹990
    28L & above convection microwaves

    Monitors
    – Up to 59% off on MRP
    – Instant cart discount up to ₹5,000* on Gaming Monitors
    32″ M5 FHD Smart Monitor, 32″ M7 UHD 4K Smart Monitor, 49″ Odyssey OLED G9 2K DQHD Gaming Monitor

    Air Conditioners
    – 10 Year warranty on compressor (all models)
    – 5 Year Comprehensive warranty (all models)
    – Free Installation on 5 Star Windfree models
    Windfree Series

    Bank Cashback
    Up to 27.5% cashback with HDFC, Axis and other leading Bank Cards (Up to ₹55,000)
     

     
    Mark your calendars for July 12th and experience the best of Samsung, where innovation meets irresistible offers!
     
    Note: All offers are valid exclusively on Samsung.com, Samsung Shop App and Samsung Experience Stores during Samsung Days, starting July 12th, 2025. Upgrade to Samsung’s latest AI-powered products and enjoy smarter productivity, entertainment and sound experiences.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • At WAVES 2025, a global call for creativity, collaboration, and cultural unity

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Global Media Dialogue at WAVES 2025 in Mumbai offered a hopeful counterpoint—one rooted in creativity, collaboration, and cultural connection. Hosted under the banner of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit, the event brought together delegations from 77 countries to adopt the WAVES Declaration—a shared commitment to preserve heritage, promote ethical innovation, and build a more inclusive global media landscape.

    The WAVES Declaration captured the spirit of the summit: a recognition that in an interconnected world, media and entertainment hold the power not only to entertain, but to unite. The document calls on nations to responsibly use emerging technologies, reduce bias in digital systems, and democratize access to content—while prioritizing ethics in an age increasingly shaped by AI.

    Much of the dialogue centered on the unifying potential of storytelling, particularly through cinema. Indian films were widely praised for their ability to transcend borders and resonate emotionally with audiences across cultures. Participants acknowledged that storytelling—whether in the form of films, digital content, or immersive media—has become one of the most potent tools for diplomacy and understanding.

    External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, addressing the forum, called WAVES 2025 a “microcosm of the global creative community.” He emphasized that the future of global collaboration lies in the ability to blend tradition with innovation. “It is crucial that young talent is made ready for an age of creative collaborations through relevant skill development,” he said, underscoring the need for both technological fluency and cultural literacy.

    Dr. Jaishankar also pointed to the dual nature of AI—its immense promise, but also its potential to entrench bias or erode cultural nuance. “Technology must strengthen awareness of our vast heritage, not erase it,” he cautioned, especially as younger generations grow up in algorithm-driven environments.

    Echoing this, Minister for Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw laid out a vision of cultural cooperation at scale. In his remarks, he urged the global creative community to invest in co-production treaties, shared content funds, and multilingual distribution pipelines that allow diverse voices to travel far beyond their origins. Creativity, he said, must move along a “global expressway of ideas.”

    India also used the occasion to showcase the growing reach of its Create in India Challenge—an initiative that, in its debut season, attracted over 700 creators from around the world. Building on that momentum, the next edition will include challenges in 25 global languages, aiming to surface talent from regions that have historically been underrepresented in global media ecosystems.

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kinshasa to Host Inaugural World Music and Tourism Festival Celebrating Music and Tourism as Drivers of Dialogue and Development

    Source: APO


    .

    Under the High Patronage of His Excellency Mr. Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kinshasa will host the first-ever World Music and Tourism Festival. UN Tourism joins the event as a supporting partner, reinforcing the shared value of culture and tourism for sustainable development and for building mutual understanding and peace.

    Held under the theme “The Rumba Route for Peace,” the Festival will highlight how music can connect cultures, strengthen communities, and create opportunities. It also supports national efforts to promote cultural heritage, grow the creative economy and build peace through cultural exchange.

    Music, Heritage, and Innovation

    The festival will spotlight Congolese Rumba recognized by UNESCO in 2021 and its role in shaping identity and tourism. UN Tourism’s involvement is part of wider efforts to link cultural assets to inclusive growth and cross-cultural exchange across Africa.

    A Three-Day Programme of Culture and Collaboration

    Hosted at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC), the Festival will feature Roundtables on:

    • Musical diplomacy for peace
    • Copyrights and fair pay for artists
    • Music and destination branding
    • Youth and digital innovation in culture

    As well as:

    • A Cultural Village and Exhibition Centre
    • Performances from Congolese and international artists
    • A “Fair Play” Masterclass for artists and entrepreneurs
    • A Rumba-themed welcome, Gala Dinner, and cultural tours

    As H.E. Mr. Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated: “The Festival will bring together voices to explore how music shapes lives, drives economic opportunity, and through innovation and technology, fosters greater connection among people”.

    The mix of music, dialogue, and networking reflects the Festival’s commitment to inclusive development, a goal shared by UN Tourism, which supports culture as a driver of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

    Platform for Exchange

    The Festival brings together stakeholders from governments, organizations, businesses, and civil society. Confirmed partners include UNESCO, ARIPO, Sony Music Entertainment, Sound Diplomacy, and cultural leaders from Africa, Latin America, and Europe.

    UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated, “Music speaks to people everywhere. This Festival is a valuable opportunity to celebrate Congolese creativity while supporting local development, regional cooperation, and international understanding. UN Tourism is proud to support an initiative that reflects the shared potential of tourism and culture to foster peace, build bridges and unlock opportunities.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £1bn in investment deals as UK-France launch new Industrial Strategy Partnership

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Over £1bn in investment deals as UK-France launch new Industrial Strategy Partnership

    The UK and France have launched a new Industrial Strategy Partnership following a successful UK-France Summit, where over £1 billion worth of investment deals into the UK have been confirmed.

    • New Partnership is first of its kind in Europe, boosting UK-France collaboration in key high growth sectors.   

    • Follows a successful UK-France Summit, where leading firms announced a billion pounds worth of investment creating thousands of highly skilled jobs.  

    • Deals are the latest vote of confidence and show the Plan for Change is working – as recent survey puts UK as joint-top global investment destination.   

    A new partnership between the UK and France will deepen economic collaboration and unlock billions in valuable investment into high growth-driving sectors – boosting the economy and delivering on the Plan for Change. 

    The announcement comes following yesterday’s 37th UK-France Summit, where leading French companies announced investments worth over £1 billion into the UK, creating thousands of highly-skilled jobs across the country – helping to put more money in people’s pockets. 

    This builds on the tidal wave of investment the government has welcomed into the UK since taking Office, worth over £100 billion, alongside 384,000 jobs created since the election. 

    The partnership forms part of the UK’s recent modern Industrial Strategy – a new approach that will create a more connected, high-skilled and resilient economy to kickstart an era of economic prosperity, the central mission in the government’s Plan for Change. 

    This partnership is a collaboration in key growth sectors including in technology, clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing, supporting a quicker green and digital transition and building our economic resilience to drive economic growth and innovation. 

    It advances a cross-Channel trade relationship worth £104 billion in 2024 and reaffirms the UK’s position as a global investment destination, the same week a Deloitte survey found that international finance leaders see the UK as the joint-most attractive destination when it comes to investment. 

    It also builds on the strong collaboration which already exists between the UK and France across vital areas including energy, aviation, tech and finance – all of which fall under the key growth sectors identified in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy. 

    Today’s announcement follows Wednesday’s roundtable attended by leading French and British firms hosted by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, French Economy, Finance and Industry Minister Eric Lombard and French Digital Affairs Minister Clara Chappaz.  

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:  

    This is our first Industrial Strategy Partnership with a major European partner, and will combine our joint expertise across energy, advanced manufacturing, technology and more, helping deliver our Plan for Change by boosting growth to deliver more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    This milestone is an exciting new chapter in our already strong relationship with France and will boost both countries’ key sectors by driving two-way innovation and investment, delivering on our Plan for Change.”  

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to kickstart an era of economic prosperity and this partnership will serve as a welcome anchor at a time of significant geopolitical uncertainty. It is built on the best of foundations, with both our businesses and citizens sharing deep links.

    Today’s deals show that the UK is open for international companies to expand their businesses in a wide range of priority sectors, including:  

    • Veolia has announced a £70 million investment to transform an existing, disused industrial facility to a state-of-the-art plastics sorting and recycling facility in Shropshire, creating more than 130 local jobs. 

    • Thales, in conjunction with partners, is planning £40 million of AI-focussed R&D investment as part of its CortAIx UK AI Accelerator, which will employ 200 people. 

    • Comand AI are investing £35 million over the next five years to set up an office in the UK, in their first step to becoming a pan-European defence company.  

    • Pernod Ricard is investing a further £17.5 million in its Scotch whisky producer, Chivas Brothers, to create two new bottling lines at its Kilmalid site near Glasgow.   

    • LVMH will operate at least twenty Sephora stores by 2028, with a need of 800 additional recruitments.   

    • EDF confirmed earlier this week that thousands of UK jobs and apprenticeships will be created as it announced it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C – in a major boost for UK growth and energy security. Assystem will double its nuclear workforce in the UK, creating 1,000 new engineering, digital and project management jobs. Urenco also signed a 15-year deal with EDF to produce fuel for nuclear power stations, supporting Urenco UK’s workforce of more than 1,400 people. 

    • French company Ardian has also in the last week finalised its acquisition of an additional 10% stake in London Heathrow as a gateway for growth with a further £888 million investment, taking their investment into the airport to £2.85 billion, supporting the site’s 80,000 jobs.  

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds also met with French Economy, Finance and Industry Minister Éric Lombard yesterday, to discuss the importance of French investment in the UK and how this new partnership will enable more collaboration in key sectors such as clean energy, tech and economic resilience. 

    UK companies are also continuing to succeed in the French market, delivering on the government’s AI opportunities action plan, from capability to R&D. British tech unicorns are winning tens of millions of pounds in significant contracts with French corporates, driving jobs and growth at home. 

    This includes Synthesia’s new partnership with Decathlon to create a pioneering AI avatar lab, ElevenLabs’ collaboration with M6 and TV5 Monde, and Darktrace’s contract with GL Events, a French major events operator. BT is also connecting more than 80 French-headquartered companies including Alstom and Michelin in France, with operations totalling approximately £130 million last financial year. 

    The refresh of the Lancaster House defence partnership is also creating new opportunities in the UK’s aerospace and defence sectors, supporting over 2,750 highly skilled jobs and representing billions to the UK and French economies through joint export promotion and capability projects which benefit the UK’s defence industries, including MBDA and Airbus. 

    The agreement with France follows the Industrial Strategy Partnership committed to between the UK and Japan in March, preceding publication of the Strategy in June.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US Tariffs Could Trigger Brazil’s Economic Reciprocity Law – L.I. Lula da Silva

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    SAO PAULO, July 11 (Xinhua) — The United States’ imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Brazilian imports could trigger the country’s economic reciprocity law, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Thursday.

    If the 50 percent tariff goes into effect on August 1, the Brazilian government will invoke the provisions of the law while maintaining the possibility of negotiations, the president added.

    “But if the negotiations fail, the law on economic reciprocity will be invoked. If he /D. Trump/ takes 50 percent from us, we will also take 50 percent from him,” the Brazilian president said in an interview with the local television channel RecordTV.

    For the past 15 years, Brazil has had a trade deficit with the United States, its second-largest trading partner, he said. –0–

    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

  • India’s creator economy set to shape a trillion-dollar future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At WAVES 2025, a new report by the Boston Consulting Group grabbed the spotlight, drawing the attention of policymakers, creators, and investors. The report revealed that India’s creator economy is already driving more than $350 billion in consumer spending, a number expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

    Titled From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy, the report paints a vivid picture of a nation in the midst of a creative and commercial boom. With 2 to 2.5 million active creators—defined as individuals with more than 1,000 followers—India is home to one of the world’s largest and youngest digital communities. But what’s most striking is the current monetization gap. Only 8 to 10 percent of these creators are earning meaningful income from their content, revealing a vast reserve of untapped potential that may well become the fuel for the next stage of India’s economic growth story.

    The report underscores the sweeping influence creators now hold over consumer decisions. Over 30 percent of purchases are directly shaped by digital content—ranging from short-form videos to long-format storytelling, tutorials, product reviews, and live streams. Comedy, film, fashion, and serials remain the dominant genres, but the expansion into new content territories like gaming, wellness, and finance is reshaping how India learns, shops, and interacts.

    What makes this shift even more profound is how it is transcending generational and geographic lines. No longer confined to Gen Z or urban metros, the creator ecosystem is reaching deep into smaller towns, regional markets, and older demographics. The emergence of multilingual creators and regional influencers has catalyzed a more inclusive digital marketplace—one that mirrors the real India in all its complexity and diversity.

    For brands and marketers, this evolution has not just altered strategies; it has flipped the entire funnel. Traditional advertising methods are being replaced or supplemented by more agile, creative, and targeted forms of engagement. Campaigns are now designed with creators at the core—allowing for faster content production, greater freedom of expression, and improved metrics through outcome-based testing. Virtual gifting, live commerce, subscription models, and fan-funded initiatives are rising as new revenue streams, giving creators both financial agency and deeper community ownership.

    WAVES 2025 served as the perfect launchpad for this new digital vision. With its ambitious scope covering media, technology, and storytelling, the summit highlighted how India’s creator economy is not merely an offshoot of the entertainment sector, it is the engine powering a new form of commerce and cultural diplomacy. As discussions ranged from AI in filmmaking to the future of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), one theme emerged with clarity: creators are not just influencing trends—they are shaping the market.

    Investors are recalibrating strategies to fund content-driven startups. Policy frameworks are being debated to offer protections and incentives for digital freelancers. Education platforms are rolling out creator economy courses. And most significantly, creators across India—from school-going influencers in Raipur to AI-powered illustrators in Chennai—are beginning to realize their role not just as entertainers, but as economic contributors.

    The trillion-dollar forecast is not a distant dream—it is a pathway already in motion. With the right mix of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusivity, India’s creator economy could become one of its most significant exports. And as the world turns its eyes toward this new digital juggernaut, one thing is certain: India is no longer just telling stories. It is rewriting the script of global influence—one post, one video, one idea at a time.

  • India’s creator economy set to shape a trillion-dollar future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At WAVES 2025, a new report by the Boston Consulting Group grabbed the spotlight, drawing the attention of policymakers, creators, and investors. The report revealed that India’s creator economy is already driving more than $350 billion in consumer spending, a number expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

    Titled From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy, the report paints a vivid picture of a nation in the midst of a creative and commercial boom. With 2 to 2.5 million active creators—defined as individuals with more than 1,000 followers—India is home to one of the world’s largest and youngest digital communities. But what’s most striking is the current monetization gap. Only 8 to 10 percent of these creators are earning meaningful income from their content, revealing a vast reserve of untapped potential that may well become the fuel for the next stage of India’s economic growth story.

    The report underscores the sweeping influence creators now hold over consumer decisions. Over 30 percent of purchases are directly shaped by digital content—ranging from short-form videos to long-format storytelling, tutorials, product reviews, and live streams. Comedy, film, fashion, and serials remain the dominant genres, but the expansion into new content territories like gaming, wellness, and finance is reshaping how India learns, shops, and interacts.

    What makes this shift even more profound is how it is transcending generational and geographic lines. No longer confined to Gen Z or urban metros, the creator ecosystem is reaching deep into smaller towns, regional markets, and older demographics. The emergence of multilingual creators and regional influencers has catalyzed a more inclusive digital marketplace—one that mirrors the real India in all its complexity and diversity.

    For brands and marketers, this evolution has not just altered strategies; it has flipped the entire funnel. Traditional advertising methods are being replaced or supplemented by more agile, creative, and targeted forms of engagement. Campaigns are now designed with creators at the core—allowing for faster content production, greater freedom of expression, and improved metrics through outcome-based testing. Virtual gifting, live commerce, subscription models, and fan-funded initiatives are rising as new revenue streams, giving creators both financial agency and deeper community ownership.

    WAVES 2025 served as the perfect launchpad for this new digital vision. With its ambitious scope covering media, technology, and storytelling, the summit highlighted how India’s creator economy is not merely an offshoot of the entertainment sector, it is the engine powering a new form of commerce and cultural diplomacy. As discussions ranged from AI in filmmaking to the future of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), one theme emerged with clarity: creators are not just influencing trends—they are shaping the market.

    Investors are recalibrating strategies to fund content-driven startups. Policy frameworks are being debated to offer protections and incentives for digital freelancers. Education platforms are rolling out creator economy courses. And most significantly, creators across India—from school-going influencers in Raipur to AI-powered illustrators in Chennai—are beginning to realize their role not just as entertainers, but as economic contributors.

    The trillion-dollar forecast is not a distant dream—it is a pathway already in motion. With the right mix of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusivity, India’s creator economy could become one of its most significant exports. And as the world turns its eyes toward this new digital juggernaut, one thing is certain: India is no longer just telling stories. It is rewriting the script of global influence—one post, one video, one idea at a time.

  • India’s creator economy set to shape a trillion-dollar future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At WAVES 2025, a new report by the Boston Consulting Group grabbed the spotlight, drawing the attention of policymakers, creators, and investors. The report revealed that India’s creator economy is already driving more than $350 billion in consumer spending, a number expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

    Titled From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy, the report paints a vivid picture of a nation in the midst of a creative and commercial boom. With 2 to 2.5 million active creators—defined as individuals with more than 1,000 followers—India is home to one of the world’s largest and youngest digital communities. But what’s most striking is the current monetization gap. Only 8 to 10 percent of these creators are earning meaningful income from their content, revealing a vast reserve of untapped potential that may well become the fuel for the next stage of India’s economic growth story.

    The report underscores the sweeping influence creators now hold over consumer decisions. Over 30 percent of purchases are directly shaped by digital content—ranging from short-form videos to long-format storytelling, tutorials, product reviews, and live streams. Comedy, film, fashion, and serials remain the dominant genres, but the expansion into new content territories like gaming, wellness, and finance is reshaping how India learns, shops, and interacts.

    What makes this shift even more profound is how it is transcending generational and geographic lines. No longer confined to Gen Z or urban metros, the creator ecosystem is reaching deep into smaller towns, regional markets, and older demographics. The emergence of multilingual creators and regional influencers has catalyzed a more inclusive digital marketplace—one that mirrors the real India in all its complexity and diversity.

    For brands and marketers, this evolution has not just altered strategies; it has flipped the entire funnel. Traditional advertising methods are being replaced or supplemented by more agile, creative, and targeted forms of engagement. Campaigns are now designed with creators at the core—allowing for faster content production, greater freedom of expression, and improved metrics through outcome-based testing. Virtual gifting, live commerce, subscription models, and fan-funded initiatives are rising as new revenue streams, giving creators both financial agency and deeper community ownership.

    WAVES 2025 served as the perfect launchpad for this new digital vision. With its ambitious scope covering media, technology, and storytelling, the summit highlighted how India’s creator economy is not merely an offshoot of the entertainment sector, it is the engine powering a new form of commerce and cultural diplomacy. As discussions ranged from AI in filmmaking to the future of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), one theme emerged with clarity: creators are not just influencing trends—they are shaping the market.

    Investors are recalibrating strategies to fund content-driven startups. Policy frameworks are being debated to offer protections and incentives for digital freelancers. Education platforms are rolling out creator economy courses. And most significantly, creators across India—from school-going influencers in Raipur to AI-powered illustrators in Chennai—are beginning to realize their role not just as entertainers, but as economic contributors.

    The trillion-dollar forecast is not a distant dream—it is a pathway already in motion. With the right mix of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusivity, India’s creator economy could become one of its most significant exports. And as the world turns its eyes toward this new digital juggernaut, one thing is certain: India is no longer just telling stories. It is rewriting the script of global influence—one post, one video, one idea at a time.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Dillon approves new Employment Regulation Order for workers in the Security Industry

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    The Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, has confirmed that he intends to sign a new Employment Regulation Order for the Security Industry.

    The Order will amend the 2024 Order already in place for the Sector and will commence on 22 July 2025. It will provide for a new minimum rate of pay of €15.41 per hour for workers in the Sector from that date onwards.    

    Announcing the new Employment Regulation Order, the Minister stated: 

    I am pleased to sign this amendment Order which will provide a welcome and deserved pay increase for workers in this important Sector. A well-functioning Security Sector ensures public safety and is essential for the operation of a wide range of other industries and public services including in retail, entertainment and banking. I recognise that this is a Sector which has seen significant growth and professionalisation over recent years and I welcome that this ERO will provide greater certainty and stability for both workers and employers in this Sector.

    I remain strongly supportive of the state’s collective bargaining and wage setting mechanisms, and the important work of the Joint Labour Committees. This Employment Regulation Order is an example of how effective the Committee system can be when negotiations are entered into in good faith by both sides. I would like to thank the members of the Joint Labour Committee for Security and the Labour Court for their work in delivering this positive outcome.  

    Note for Editors                                                 

    This ERO amends the 2024 ERO for the sector: SI No 319 of 2024. It provides for an increase in the minimum rate of pay for an adult worker in the sector from €14.50 to €15.41 per hour. The national statutory minimum wage rate is currently €13.50 per hour.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Dillon approves new Employment Regulation Order for workers in the Security Industry

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    The Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, has confirmed that he intends to sign a new Employment Regulation Order for the Security Industry.

    The Order will amend the 2024 Order already in place for the Sector and will commence on 22 July 2025. It will provide for a new minimum rate of pay of €15.41 per hour for workers in the Sector from that date onwards.    

    Announcing the new Employment Regulation Order, the Minister stated: 

    I am pleased to sign this amendment Order which will provide a welcome and deserved pay increase for workers in this important Sector. A well-functioning Security Sector ensures public safety and is essential for the operation of a wide range of other industries and public services including in retail, entertainment and banking. I recognise that this is a Sector which has seen significant growth and professionalisation over recent years and I welcome that this ERO will provide greater certainty and stability for both workers and employers in this Sector.

    I remain strongly supportive of the state’s collective bargaining and wage setting mechanisms, and the important work of the Joint Labour Committees. This Employment Regulation Order is an example of how effective the Committee system can be when negotiations are entered into in good faith by both sides. I would like to thank the members of the Joint Labour Committee for Security and the Labour Court for their work in delivering this positive outcome.  

    Note for Editors                                                 

    This ERO amends the 2024 ERO for the sector: SI No 319 of 2024. It provides for an increase in the minimum rate of pay for an adult worker in the sector from €14.50 to €15.41 per hour. The national statutory minimum wage rate is currently €13.50 per hour.

    ENDS

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