Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tourism Strategy Committee meets

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Tourism Strategy Committee, chaired by Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law, held its fourth meeting today.

     

    During the meeting, representatives from Kai Tak Sports Park Limited and the Development Bureau briefed the committee on matters relating to the sports park, and the preliminary land use proposal for sites around Hung Hom Station and nearby waterfront areas.

     

    Members praised the sports park, highlighting that it has impressed visitors and boosted the tourism industry. They also put forward suggestions for optimising transportation and catering arrangements during mega events and for strengthening cross-sector collaboration with the tourism industry.

     

    Regarding the preliminary land use proposal for sites around Hung Hom Station and nearby waterfront areas, committee members remarked that given their location on Victoria Harbour, the waterfront areas are well-positioned for redevelopment into a new harbourfront landmark that can integrate leisure, entertainment, dining, retail, and water-friendly elements.

     

    Members agreed that the water body adjacent to the former Hung Hom Freight Yard should be put to use, and commented that the proposed world-class yacht berthing facilities could be integrated with land-based facilities for retail, dining and entertainment so as to promote yacht tourism. They also recommended that the Government provide space for land-side ancillary facilities to support the operation of the yacht berthing facilities.

     

    The bureau is currently consulting the public and stakeholders on the preliminary land use proposal, and the Government will take into account members’ recommendations and the feedback received during the consultation period when refining the proposal and finalising the development parameters. The target is to commence relevant statutory procedures in the second half of 2026.

     

    Separately, members exchanged views with Tourism Board representatives regarding the city’s latest tourism performance and statistics.

     

    For the first five months of 2025, Hong Kong had more than 20 million visitor arrivals, a 12% increase year on year. Among these visitors, about 15 million came from the Mainland, a 10% rise on the same period in 2024. Visitor arrivals from Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan rose more than 25%. For Australia, growth of 35% was recorded.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Development of cooperation between Russia and China in the field of antimonopoly policy was discussed at the National Research University Higher School of Economics

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Higher School of Economics

    The HSE hosted a roundtable discussion entitled “New Challenges for Antitrust Regulation: The Chinese Perspective.” The event was organized by BRICS International Centre for Competition Law and Policy (BRICS Centre). Special guests were Chinese colleagues from the Competition Policy and Assessment Research Centre (CPAC) of the State Administration of Market Regulation of the People’s Republic of China (SAMR). Last year, the BRICS Centre and CPAC SAMR was signed strategic cooperation agreement.

    The meeting was also attended by representatives of the FAS Russia, the Eurasian Economic Commission and employees of the BRICS Centre and Faculty of LawThe discussion was moderated by Alexey Ivanov, Director of the BRICS Centre and Professor of the Faculty of Law at the National Research University Higher School of Economics.

    He recalled that last year the BRICS Centre developed a draft international fair competition platforms, which were supported antimonopoly authorities of the association. Initiative was approved Vladimir Putin at the Kazan summit last October, and this is now a priority task for the BRICS Centre in the context of multilateral cooperation on competition. Alexey Ivanov noted: “We expect that the Chinese Centre for Competition Policy and Expertise will become a key partner in the development of this platform.”

    The platform is intended to become a basis for the convergence of state policies and law enforcement practices to protect competition. The first stage of the project will be the creation of a unified system of interstate information exchange on economic concentration transactions and on the most pressing problems of socially significant markets. At the same time, the digitalization of cooperation within the BRICS is the key to the success of this “new architecture of international economic life.”

    Deputy Head of the FAS Russia Andrey Tsyganov addressed the participants with a welcoming speech. He covered the history of interaction between the agencies of the two countries, which began in 1996 with the signing of an agreement between the governments of the Russian Federation and China on cooperation in the field of antimonopoly policy and the fight against unfair competition. The current areas of partnership were detailed, including the exchange of best practices, coordination in border markets and joint work within the BRICS framework. “Our countries are the driving force behind cooperation in the BRICS format. Many important projects begin with our initiatives. This cooperation is focused on the so-called socially significant markets: food, pharmaceuticals, digital economy,” the speaker said. Further emphasizing the importance of digitalization, Andrey Tsyganov noted that Russia is carefully studying the experience of China in regulating digital markets, as well as new approaches and solutions of Chinese regulators.

    Deputy Director of CPAC Jie Fang spoke about the structure and activities of the center, as well as the work results of China’s antitrust regulator in 2024. During his speech, he also proposed three areas for further cooperation between the BRICS Center and CPAC: improving the cooperation mechanism by developing a clear direction and a clear understanding of common goals, which includes enhancing the role of CPAC in BRICS with the assistance of Russian colleagues; focusing on issues of mutual interest, which include antitrust supervision and enforcement in vital areas of the economy, developing mechanisms for monitoring the activities of Internet platforms, combating unfair competition in the digital environment, and protecting commercial secrets; developing new methods of cooperation, involving mutual provision of professional advice and assistance on compliance management for companies operating in Russia and China, as well as sharing the latest research results and enhancing the effectiveness of mutual learning.

    In his speech, the head of the HR department of the CPAC, Changqing Wang, drew attention to the key role of human resources in antitrust research, emphasizing the need for educational work and training highly qualified specialists in this field. According to him, since its establishment, the center has paid special attention to supporting young personnel and improving their professional level.

    Liwei Xie, Director of the CPAC Institute of Platform Economy, spoke about the development and regulation of the platform economy in China. She began her report with the latest data on the development of the country’s digital sector, according to which the monthly active mobile Internet users in China have reached 1.26 billion people. The volume of annual online retail sales exceeds 15 trillion yuan, which has allowed the Chinese online retail market to maintain its leading position in the world for 12 years in a row. At the same time, the platform economy has directly or indirectly provided employment for more than 200 million people.

    According to the speaker, China’s platform economy is a multi-layered and multi-faceted system, where e-commerce platforms such as Alibaba, JD.com and Pinduoduo together form a complete matrix and integrate multiple models, including B2C, C2C, B2B. In turn, short video entertainment platforms such as Douyin and Kuaishou have formed a complete industrial chain, from content creation to intellectual property incubation.

    In recent years, Chinese authorities have been aggressively cracking down on violations such as abuse of dominance, false advertising, counterfeit goods, and price scams. The regulator has conducted a number of high-profile antitrust investigations into Alibaba, Meituan, and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure). It has also tightened controls over mergers between companies in the platform economy and is clamping down on the placement of false advertising online. According to the regulator, these measures have already yielded results: major players have become more strict in complying with the rules, and the industry has entered a phase of “stable supervision.”

    The platform economy is supervised according to the principle that “whoever is responsible for the offline sector also supervises the online sector.” SAMR’s area of responsibility includes comprehensive market supervision, covering online trade in goods and services, antitrust activities, and combating unfair competition in the digital environment. The legal basis for this is the Law on Electronic Commerce, the Rules for Supervision of Online Commerce, as well as laws on combating unfair competition, on the protection of personal data, and intellectual property. In 2024, SAMR stepped up the fight against violations in live commerce, including the sale of counterfeit goods and price manipulation. Work is underway to revise laws on pricing and unfair competition, and new regulations are being prepared for streaming services and platforms.

    The Russian experience of regulating digital markets was presented by Irina Nikolaicheva, Head of the Department for Regulation of Communications and Information Technology of the FAS Russia. She reported that the agency is currently developing systemic approaches to the analysis and regulation of digital markets, studying such phenomena as network effects. The basis for this work was the amendments to the Law on Protection of Competition adopted in 2023, known as the fifth antimonopoly package. Before the amendments to the law, the service actively used soft law tools, in particular the “Principles of Good Conduct for Platforms” signed by the largest Russian marketplaces. Experience has shown that an integrated approach combining legislative measures and self-regulation is most effective. As part of the current regulation, the Government of the Russian Federation instructed the Ministry of Economic Development, together with the FAS Russia, to develop a separate bill on platform employment, designed to establish clear and non-discriminatory rules for access to the largest digital platforms, including marketplaces and taxi aggregators, to ensure a balance of interests of operators, market participants and consumers.

    Olga Korolkova, Assistant to the Member of the Board (Minister) for Competition and Antimonopoly Regulation of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC), shared her experience of supranational regulation. She recalled that the EAEU, which celebrated its 11th anniversary in May 2025, is an international organization of regional economic integration whose task is to ensure the free movement of goods, services, capital and labor. The EEC Competition Block, in turn, ensures this freedom in cross-border markets. As part of the strategic development directions until 2025, the Commission has prepared a draft agreement on e-commerce within the EAEU, establishing requirements for professional market participants, including requirements for platforms and advertising messages, and also touching upon issues of consumer protection, technical regulation, security and customs clearance of digital goods. In addition, the EEC Antimonopoly Block has already amended the methodology for assessing the state of competition, including criteria for analyzing digital markets, such as network effects.

    Summing up the meeting, Alexey Ivanov focused on the unique role of the antimonopoly regulator, which is called upon to act as a mediator and facilitator, taking a neutral and objective position. The regulator’s task is not to protect the interests of one of the parties, such as platform owners or their employees, but to promote the development of competition. The key goal of its activities is to ensure balanced and sustainable development of the market, when the growth and dominance of some participants to the detriment of others is not allowed.

    Speaking about the role of BRICS, Alexey Ivanov emphasized that the association is a “network of networks,” a superstructure over regional associations that performs the function of coordination between various regional structures, and, among other things, helps countries build a synchronized antimonopoly policy.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: The Government of Barbados Announces the Final Results of its Offer to Purchase for Cash its 6.500% Notes due 2029

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY PERSON LOCATED OR RESIDENT IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Government of Barbados (the “Offeror”) announces today the final results of its offer (the “Offer”) to holders (the “Noteholders”) of any and all of its outstanding 6.500% Notes due 2029 (the “Notes”) to purchase any and all of such Notes for cash on the terms and subject to the satisfaction of the New Financing Condition (as defined below) and the other conditions set forth in the tender offer memorandum dated 13 June 2025 (the “Tender Offer Memorandum”).

    The Offer was made upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Tender Offer Memorandum. Capitalised terms used in this announcement but not defined herein have the meanings given to them in the Tender Offer Memorandum.

    Final Results

    The table below sets forth information with respect to the Notes that were validly tendered at or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time on 20 June 2025 (the “Expiration Deadline”), acceptance of which by the Offeror remains subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the New Financing Condition on or prior to the Settlement Date and the other terms and conditions described in the Tender Offer Memorandum. The Offer expired at the Expiration Deadline, and no further Notes may be tendered for purchase pursuant to the Offer.

    Description of the Notes   Outstanding Principal Amount of the Notes shown in the records of The Depository Trust Company and subject to the Offer   ISINs/CUSIP No.   Aggregate Principal Amount of Notes shown in the records of The Depository Trust Company that were Validly Tendered   Purchase Price(3)
                     
    6.500% Notes due 2029   U.S.$452,936,300(1)   Rule 144A Notes: US067070AH54 / 067070 AH5

    Regulation S Notes: USP48864AQ80 / P48864 AQ8

      U.S.$378,263,800(2)   U.S.$1,000
    (1) A 10% amortization payment was made on the Notes on 1 April 2025, meaning that the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the Notes following such amortization payment is U.S.$407,642,670.
       
    (2) The aggregate principal amount of the Notes validly tendered at their amortized value is U.S.$340,437,420.
       
    (3) Offered as Purchase Price per each U.S.$1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Expiration Deadline (as defined below) and accepted for purchase. Equates to U.S.$900 at the amortised value of the Notes. The Purchase Price does not include Accrued Interest (as defined below). On 26 June 2025 (subject to the right of the Offeror, at its sole discretion, to extend, re-open, amend and/or terminate the Offer) (the “Settlement Date”), Noteholders will also receive Accrued Interest on all Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase.


    Tender Offer Consideration

    The Offeror will, on the Settlement Date (subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the New Financing Condition on or prior to the Settlement Date and the other terms and conditions described in the Tender Offer Memorandum), pay for the Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or before the Expiration Deadline pursuant to the Offer and accepted by it for purchase pursuant to the Offer a cash amount (rounded to the nearest U.S.$0.01) equal to the sum of (i) the Purchase Price for such Notes, as set forth in the table above; and (ii) interest accrued and unpaid on the Notes from (and including) the interest payment date for such Notes immediately preceding the Settlement Date to (but excluding) the Settlement Date in respect of such Notes (the “Accrued Interest” and the payment thereof, the “Accrued Interest Payment”) (the “Tender Offer Consideration”).

    Payment of Tender Offer Consideration

    Payment of the Tender Offer Consideration for the Notes accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer is expected to be made on the Settlement Date, as described in the Tender Offer Memorandum (subject to satisfaction or waiver of the New Financing Condition on or prior to the Settlement Date and the other terms and conditions described in the Tender Offer Memorandum and subject to change without notice).

    Conditions to the Offer

    The Offeror is not under any obligation to accept any tender of Notes for purchase pursuant to the Offer. Tenders of Notes for purchase may be rejected in the sole discretion of the Offeror for any reason and the Offeror is not under any obligation to Noteholders to furnish any reason or justification for refusing to accept a tender of Notes for purchase. For example, tenders of Notes for purchase may be rejected if the Offer is terminated, if the New Financing Condition is not satisfied or if the Offer does not comply with the relevant requirements of a particular jurisdiction or for any other reason. Subject to the New Financing Condition being satisfied or waived, no assurance can be given that any Offer will be completed. In addition, the Offeror may, in its sole and absolute discretion, waive any of the conditions to the Offer after this announcement.

    New Financing Condition

    Whether the Offeror will accept for purchase any Notes validly tendered in the Offer is subject to (unless such condition is waived by the Offeror in its sole and absolute discretion), among other things, the prior closing of the issuance by the Offeror of one or more series of debt securities (the “New Notes”) in the international capital markets (the “New Notes Offering”) in an aggregate principal amount, and at a price and on terms and conditions acceptable to the Offeror in its sole and absolute discretion, a portion of the net proceeds of which will be used by the Offeror to purchase any Notes tendered and accepted pursuant to the Offer (the “New Financing Condition”).

    The New Notes Offering is being made solely by means of an offering memorandum relating to the New Notes Offering (the “New Notes Offering Memorandum”), and this announcement and the Tender Offer Memorandum do not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the New Notes. You may not participate in the New Notes Offering unless you have received and reviewed the New Notes Offering Memorandum, and not in reliance on, or on the basis of, this announcement or the Tender Offer Memorandum. The New Notes will be offered only to qualified institutional buyers in the United States in reliance on Rule 144A and outside the United States to non-U.S. persons in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act, and will not be registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction.

    Even if the New Financing Condition is satisfied, the Offeror is not under any obligation to accept for purchase any Notes tendered pursuant to the Offer.

    Each of the foregoing conditions is for the sole benefit of the Offeror and may only be waived by the Offeror, in whole or in part, at any time and from time to time, in its discretion. Any determination by the Offeror concerning the conditions set forth above (including whether or not any such condition has been satisfied or waived) will be final and binding upon the Noteholders, the Information and Tender Agent and all other persons.

    Notes that are not tendered or accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will remain outstanding.

    Announcements

    The Offeror will announce, promptly after the New Financing Condition has been met or waived, (i) the aggregate principal amount of Notes validly tendered that will be accepted for purchase, and (ii) the aggregate principal amount of Notes remaining outstanding following the completion of the Offer.

    Unless stated otherwise, announcements in connection with the Offer will be by the issue of a press release through the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and by the delivery of notices to the relevant Clearing Systems for communication to Direct Participants. Such announcements may also be made by the issue of a press release to a Notifying News Service. Copies of all such announcements, press releases and notices and will be available on the Offer Website or alternatively they can also be obtained upon request from the Information and Tender Agent, the contact details for which are below. Significant delays may be experienced where notices are delivered to the Clearing Systems and Noteholders are urged to contact the Information and Tender Agent for the relevant announcements. In addition, Noteholders may contact the Dealer Managers for information using the contact details below.

    Disclaimer

    This announcement does not contain the full terms and conditions of the Offer. The terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Tender Offer Memorandum, and are subject to the Offer and distribution restrictions set out below and more fully described therein.

    Further information

    J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Standard Chartered Bank have been appointed by the Offeror to serve as dealer managers (the “Dealer Managers”) for the Offer. D.F. King (the “Information and Tender Agent”) has been appointed by the Offeror to act as the information and tender agent in connection with the Offer.

    For additional information regarding the terms of the Offer, please contact J.P. Morgan Securities LLC by telephone at (866) 846-2874; Collect: (212) 834-7279 and Standard Chartered Bank by telephone at (212) 667-0351 (U.S.) or +44 20 7885 5739 (U.K.) and by email at liability_management@sc.com.

    Requests for documents and questions regarding the tender of Notes may be directed to the Information and Tender Agent D.F. King & Co., Inc. via:

    Banks & Brokers Call: (212) 269-5550

    Toll free: (866) 342-4881

    Email: barbados@dfking.com

    No Recommendation

    The relevant Purchase Price, if paid by the Offeror with respect to the Notes accepted for purchase, will not necessarily reflect the actual value of such Notes. Noteholders should independently analyse the value of the Notes and make an independent assessment of the terms of the Offer. None of the Offeror, the Dealer Managers or the Information and Tender Agent has or will express any opinion as to whether the terms of the Offer are fair. None of the Offeror, the Dealer Managers or the Information and Tender Agent makes any recommendation that Noteholders should submit an offer to sell or tender Notes or refrain from doing so pursuant to the Offer, and no one has been authorised by any of them to make any such recommendation.

    Offer and Distribution Restrictions

    Neither this announcement nor the Tender Offer Memorandum constitutes an offer to participate in the Offer in any jurisdiction in which, or to any person to or from whom, it is unlawful to make such offer or for there to be such participation under applicable securities laws. The distribution of the Tender Offer Memorandum in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession the Tender Offer Memorandum comes are required by the Offeror, the Dealer Managers and the Information and Tender Agent to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions

    Nothing in this announcement or the Tender Offer Memorandum or the electronic transmission thereof constitutes an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the New Notes in the United States or any other jurisdiction.

    In addition, each Noteholder participating in an Offer will also be deemed to give certain representations in respect of the other jurisdictions referred to above and generally as set out in “Procedures for Participating in the Offer” of the Tender Offer Memorandum. Any tender of Notes for purchase pursuant to an Offer from a Noteholder that is unable to make these representations will not be accepted. Each of the Offeror, the Dealer Managers and the Information and Tender Agent reserves the right, in its absolute discretion, to investigate, in relation to any tender of Notes for purchase pursuant to an Offer, whether any such representation given by a Noteholder is correct and, if such investigation is undertaken and as a result the Offeror determines (for any reason) that such representation is not correct, such tender shall not be accepted. The acceptance of any tender shall not be deemed to be a representation or a warranty by any of the Offeror, the Dealer Manager or the Information and Tender Agent or any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or affiliates that it has undertaken any such investigation and/or that any such representation to any person underwriting any such Notes is correct.

    United Kingdom

    The communication of this announcement, the Tender Offer Memorandum and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer are not being made, and such documents and/or materials have not been approved, by an authorised person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the “FSMA”). Accordingly, such documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, the general public in the United Kingdom. The communication of such documents and/or materials is exempt from the restriction on financial promotions under section 21 of the FSMA on the basis that it is only directed at and may be communicated to (1) those persons who are existing creditors of the Offeror within Article 43(2) of the FSMA (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended, and (2) to any other persons to whom these documents and/or materials may lawfully be communicated.

    Belgium

    None of this announcement, the Tender Offer Memorandum or any other documents or materials relating to the Offer have been, or will be, submitted to or notified to, or approved by, the Belgian Financial Services and Markets Authority (Autorité des services et marchés financiers/Autoriteit voor Financiële Diensten en Markten) and, accordingly, the Offer may not be made in Belgium by way of a public offering, as defined in Article 3 of the Belgian Law of 1 April 2007 on takeover bids (loi relative aux offres publiques d’acquisition/wet op de openbare overnamebiedingen), as amended or replaced from time to time.

    Accordingly, the Offer may not be, and is not being advertised, and this announcement and the Tender Offer Memorandum, as well as any brochure, or any other material or document relating thereto (including any memorandum, information circular, brochure or any similar document) may not, have not and will not be distributed, directly or indirectly, to any person located and/or resident within Belgium, other than those who qualify as qualified investors (investisseurs qualifiés/qekwalificeerde beleggers), within the meaning of Article 2, e), of the Prospectus Regulation acting on their own account. Accordingly, the information contained in the Tender Offer Memorandum or in any brochure or any other document or material relating thereto may not be used for any other purpose, including for any offering in Belgium, except as may otherwise be permitted by law, and shall not be disclosed or distributed to any other person in Belgium.

    France

    This announcement, the Tender Offer Memorandum and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer are only addressed to and are only directed at qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation in France. Each person in France who receives any communication in respect of the Offer contemplated in this announcement, the Tender Offer Memorandum and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer will be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed to and with the Dealer Managers and the Offeror that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation.

    European Economic Area

    In any European Economic Area (“EEA”) Member State, this announcement and the Tender Offer Memorandum are only addressed to, and are only directed at, “qualified investors” (as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended (the “Prospectus Regulation”)) in that Member State.

    Each person in a Member State of the EEA who receives any communication in respect of the Offer contemplated in this announcement and the Tender Offer Memorandum will be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed to and with each Dealer Manager and the Offeror that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SIU strikes on former Lotteries Commission official

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, June 23, 2025

    The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has obtained a court order preventing former National Lotteries Commission (NLC) senior manager, Sanele Dlamini, from accessing his pension benefits until the finalisation of a civil case against him.

    The civil case relates to the alleged illegal disbursement of some R6 million in NLC funds signed off by Dlamini to the Motheo Sports and Entertainment Foundation.

    “The SIU’s investigation revealed that an NLC-funded project – a sports complex – was never initiated, and supporting documents, including progress reports and financial statements, were falsified. 

    “Mr Dlamini, who facilitated the irregular disbursement of R3 million to the Motheo Sports and Entertainment Foundation, co-signed the fraudulent progress report without verifying the site or documentation, enabling the unlawful payout,” the SIU said in a statement.

    The corruption busting unit explained that it turned to the courts for a freezing order to “limit the risk of a hollow judgment if funds were released, noting concerns that Mr. Dlamini may lack sufficient assets to satisfy future claims”.

    “The interdict bars Mr. Dlamini from accessing his pension benefits until the SIU’s main case, a civil recovery action tied to the misallocation of R6 million in NLC grant funds, is concluded. 

    “The fourth respondent, Liberty’s Corporate Selection Umbrella Retirement Fund, has been directed to assess and disclose the value of Dlamini’s pension within 60 days. This preservation is intended to ensure that funds remain available for potential recovery should the SIU succeed in its claim,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: ZOOZ Power Explores Strategic Opportunities as Leading Defense Company Commences POC for Flywheel-Based Power Booster

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Board of Directors Announces Restructuring Plan

    Tel Aviv, Israel, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZOOZ Power (Nasdaq and TASE: ZOOZ), a leading provider of flywheel-based power boosters and energy management systems for enabling ultra-fast EV charging solutions, announced today that its board of directors has approved a plan to explore additional strategic alternatives to fully capitalize on its advanced, patented flywheel technology.

    Over the past several months, ZOOZ Power has engaged in ongoing discussions with a prominent defense and intelligence electronics company regarding deployment of a robust, repetitive short-duration power booster capable of operating in challenging environments. ZOOZ Power is currently conducting a proof of concept (POC) with this defense company — a collaboration that has the potential to unlock new verticals and significantly broaden the application of its flywheel technology.

    As part of the efforts to enhance execution, the board has also approved a company-wide cost reduction and restructuring initiative designed to reduce operating costs by approximately 35%. These cost efficiencies will enable greater business flexibility.

    “This POC engagement with a leading defense electronics company validates the versatility and competitive advantage of our flywheel technology in mission-critical environments, beyond our core EV charging systems,” said Erez Zimerman, Chief Executive Officer of ZOOZ Power. “At the same time, our cost reduction and restructuring plan will ensure we are lean, agile, and focused on the areas that we believe are most likely to deliver the highest growth and return.”

    About ZOOZ Power

    ZOOZ Power is a leading provider of flywheel-based power boosting and energy management solutions, enabling the widespread deployment of ultra-fast charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) while overcoming existing grid limitations.

    ZOOZ pioneers its unique flywheel-based power-boosting technology, enabling efficient utilization and power management of a power-limited grid at an EV charging site. Its Flywheel technology allows high-performance, reliable, and cost-effective ultra-fast charging infrastructure.

    ZOOZ Power’s sustainable, power-boosting solutions are built with longevity and the environment in mind, helping its customers and partners accelerate the deployment of fast-charging infrastructure, thus facilitating improved utilization rates, better efficiency, greater flexibility, and faster revenues and profitability growth. ZOOZ is publicly traded on NASDAQ and TASE under the ticker ZOOZ. For more information, please visit: www.zoozpower.com/

    Investor Contact:
    Miri Segal – CEO
    MS-IR LLC
    msegal@ms-ir.com

    Media enquiries:
    Media@zoozpower.com

    Forward-Looking Statement

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of ZOOZ Power. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding ZOOZ Power, and any of ZOOZ Power’s strategy, future operations and statements related to the POC engagement with a leading defense electronics company, ZOOZ Power’s cost reduction and restructuring plan, and the results thereof are forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause ZOOZ Power’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and other risks and uncertainties are more fully discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of ZOOZ’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) as well as other documents that may be subsequently filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the deployment of a robust, repetitive short-duration power booster capable of operating in challenging environments, statements relating to ZOOZ Power’s currently conducted proof of concept (POC) with a defense company, statements relating to the potential results of such POC, including the potential of unlocking new verticals and significantly broaden the application of ZOOZ Power’s flywheel technology, statements relating to the potential versatility and competitive advantage of ZOOZ Power’s flywheel technology in mission-critical environments, beyond its core EV charging systems, statements relating to ZOOZ Power’s company-wide cost reduction and restructuring initiative including the potential results of such initiative, including its potential to reduce operating costs, statements relating to the areas that could deliver the highest growth and return, and conditions in Israel and in the Middle East, including the effect of the evolving nature of the ongoing “Swords of Iron” war, may adversely affect ZOOZ Power’s operations. These forward-looking statements are only estimations, and ZOOZ Power may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in any forward-looking statements, so you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in forward-looking statements made in this Press Release. Management of ZOOZ Power has based these forward-looking statements largely on current expectations and projections about future events and trends that such persons believe may affect ZOOZ Power’s business, financial condition and operating results. Forward-looking statements contained in this Press Release are made as of the date hereof, and none of ZOOZ Power or any of its representatives or any other person undertakes any duty to update such information except as may be expressly required under applicable law.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Battery Tender Expands Product Line at Lowe’s, Offering Consumers Additional Industry-Leading Battery Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DELAND, Fla., June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Battery Tender by Deltran, a leading brand in battery charging and portable power accessories, is expanding at Lowe’s stores with three new products. The additions include Charge N Start 1120 Battery Charger and Jump Starter Combo, 800 AMP Jump Starter and Tire Inflator Combo and Power Tender® 15/8/2 AMP Selectable 12V Battery Charger. This expansion brings the total Battery Tender product offering at Lowe’s to seven, making it easier than ever to find reliable battery solutions for vehicle batteries.

    “Battery Tender focuses on creating easy-to-use, functional products that solve real problems for our customers,” said Michael Prelec, CEO of Battery Tender. “Our expanded Lowe’s lineup features innovative products that combine multiple functions into single, versatile solutions – giving customers exactly what they need without the complexity. These multi-purpose battery tools make vehicle maintenance effortless and keep them ready for whatever comes next.”

    Now Available at Lowe’s:

    • Charge N Start 1120 ($120.00): A 2-in-1 solution combining a 12V, 1 AMP charger and 1200 AMP jump starter designed for motorcycles, personal watercraft, ATVs, UTVs, cars and trucks. An enhanced version of Charge N Start 1100, 1120 offers improved durability and reliability for routine maintenance and emergencies.
    • 800 AMP Jump Starter and Tire Inflator ($199.95): A dual-purpose roadside tool combining an 800 AMP jump starter with a 150 PSI tire inflator and digital pressure gauge. It’s perfect for cars and SUVs, delivering fast starts and tire inflation.
    • Power Tender 15/8/2 AMP Selectable 12V Battery Charger ($104.98): A versatile, selectable-output charger with 15, 8 and 2 AMP modes for fast, efficient charging of 12V batteries in cars, boats, motorcycles and lawn equipment. Designed for safety and convenience, it features reverse polarity protection and automatic charge control.

    In addition to the new introductions, Lowe’s offers the following Battery Tender models:

    With this expansion, customers have a broader selection of dependable battery chargers and portable power solutions available at their local Lowe’s store or online at Lowes.com.

    For more information on these products and the full range of battery management solutions from Battery Tender, visit BatteryTender.com.

    About Battery Tender®
    Battery Tender® is a leading force in the power management and battery industry, dedicated to crafting cutting-edge charging and maintenance solutions. With a rich legacy spanning over 35 years, our brand has garnered unwavering trust from customers, owing to our steadfast commitment to performance and unmatched product reliability. For more information, visit BatteryTender.com and follow @BatteryTender on social.

    Media Contact:
    Sierra Moorman
    Uproar by Moburst for Battery Tender
    sierra.moorman@moburst.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Ahead of Time Together”: Winners and Prize-Winners of “Highest Standard” Awarded in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    June 13th Center of Cultures The HSE hosted a ceremony to honor the winners of the All-Russian School OlympiadHighest quality“. Of the more than 4.5 thousand winners and prize winners, about 700 schoolchildren from 67 regions of Russia took part in it. The best of the best were noted in special nominations established by the organizing committee of the Olympiad. For the second year in a row, the Olympiad “Highest Standard” is held with the support of Sber.

    Before the ceremony, a festival program was organized in the HSE atrium, which for an hour and a half became the main city square of HSE City with street activities and artists, a lounge area and elegant pavilions, flags and garlands.

    Here you could get a consultation from a neuro-fortune teller, play table football and hockey, solve puzzles and dance, take part in the creation of living paintings. In the chill-zone of Sber, which is supporting the Olympiad for the second season, schoolchildren played computer games, ate ice cream and got answers to questions about building a dream career, and in the VR-greenhouse of the ROST Group of Companies, a partner of Vysshaya Proba in biology, they picked tomatoes, drank smoothies and tried snacks with the taste of tomato and cucumber.

    In the Photo Mosaic zone, participants were invited to contribute to the creation of the HSE inscription from hundreds of photographs of Olympiad diploma winners. Those who wished could take part in a quest introducing HSE, in the game What? Where? When?, continue to build up their intellectual potential at the master class What Can Be Learned from Social (and Not Only) Network Analysis? or the training Creative Worlds: How Ideas Turn into Collaborations.

    The guests then moved to the Cultural Center. The participants of the ceremony honoring the diploma holders (similar events were previously held in Saint Petersburg, Perm And Nizhny Novgorod) said the first vice-rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Vadim Radaev.

    “The Olympiad “Higher Standard” will soon turn 30, and every year it becomes more and more beautiful and cool. It already includes 30 profiles, including two new ones – “Industrial Programming” together with “Yandex” and “History of Art” together with the Pushkin Museum. And of course, the competition is growing. This year, more than 50 thousand people took part in it, and your victory is even more significant. There are more than 4.5 thousand winners and prize-winners, and even more diplomas, because some of you managed to win the Olympiad in several profiles,” said Vadim Radaev.

    The First Vice-Rector also thanked the partners and the team of organizers, “who are conducting the ‘Higher Test’ at the highest level.”

    Olga Tsukanova, Managing Director and Head of the Academic Partnerships Directorate at Sber, joined in the congratulations. She emphasized that the Higher School of Economics offers a wide range of sciences, and those who win the Olympiads then find themselves in a variety of fields.

    “We will be glad to see you among our employees, clients, partners, and we are ready to support those who see the future, who are moving towards the future, who are ready to lead others. Invitations to internships at Sber are received not only by students, but also by schoolchildren, who can try themselves in our product teams, “twist” the products that we release to the market. And students, especially after two years of study, having received a solid base, do cool projects at Sber,” said Olga Tsukanova.

    The organizing committee of the Olympiad established special nominations in which the best of the best were recognized: “Everest of Science” (diplomas in five or more profiles), “Conquering Olympus” (the highest results in profiles from 90 points), “Victory Marathon” (prize places for four or more years), “Ahead of Time” (completion of tasks two grades higher than the class of study, and tasks for the 7th grade by sixth-graders) and “HSE Olympiads” (winning several intellectual competitions of the National Research University Higher School of Economics). The laureates in these nominations, as well as two diploma winners of the Olympiad, who celebrated their birthday on June 13, were presented with diplomas, medals and gifts on stage.

    Deputy Vice-Rector – Head Directorate for the Development of Intellectual Competitions HSE University Danil Fedorov, congratulating the winners in the “Everest of Science” nomination, urged them to apply to a university where it is difficult to study, reminding them that the Higher School of Economics is exactly such a university.

    Olga Tsukanova invited the winners in the Conquering Olympus nomination to become students of the AI360: Artificial Intelligence Engineering track of the bachelor’s program Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, which is being implemented at HSE jointly with Sber and Yandex.

    Chairman of the Methodological Commission for the Profile “Foreign Languages” – Head Foreign language schools HSE University Ekaterina Kolesnikova compared the process of preparing for the Olympics to playing sports. “The winners in the “Victorious Marathon” nomination know very well that those who do not stop when things are difficult, who act at the limit of their capabilities, win,” she noted.

    The winners in the “Ahead of Time” nomination were announced by Anna Korovko, Senior Director for Main Educational Programs at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, and the Chair of the Methodological Commission for the “Political Science” profile, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Denis Stukal. Anna Korovko promised that by the time they finish 11th grade, studying at the HSE will become even more difficult, and Denis Stukal, himself a former Olympiad participant, called them true leaders who not only challenged those who were a year or two older than them, but also succeeded in doing so.

    “You have a great future ahead of you, and I hope that at some point it will become inextricably linked with our university, because HSE is a university that is also ahead of its time. Let’s get ahead of it together and move only forward,” Denis Stukal concluded.

    The Chairperson of the Methodological Commission for the Economics Profile, Daria Tabashnikova, announced the winner in the HSE Olympiads brand nomination, Anastasia Usenko, who won the Vysshaya Proba Olympiad, the In Your Own Words essay championship, and the Highest Aerobatics competition. “Collecting awards, receiving diplomas, and preferences is great, but it’s even cooler when a person tries himself in different things and succeeds,” Daria Tabashnikova emphasized.

    The results of the event were summed up by the Director for Work with Gifted Students at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Tamara Protasevich.

    “The ending Olympiad season of “Highest Standard” is the fifteenth, anniversary one for our team, which is responsible for its implementation. The year 2025 is generally rich in anniversaries: 5 years of the All-Russian Case Championship, 10 years of “Highest Aerobatics”. And “Highest Standard” is our largest project: registration for it began in August last year, and diplomas are being awarded now, in June. The Olympiad is constantly in the focus of our attention, and we are constantly improving it,” said Tamara Protasevich.

    She gave examples of feedback from Olympiad participants, which those present in the hall agreed with, raising glowing hearts: “The level of tasks is decent, difficult, but interesting,” “The atmosphere is pleasant, comfortable, not overwhelming, allows you to enjoy completing the Olympiad tasks,” “Organization – everything is clear and well thought out, prompt responses to questions, caring, friendly volunteers.”

    Tamara Protasevich also announced another nomination – “Recognition of the Organizers”, the winners of which were the best volunteers – students of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, who over the past three years participated in the “Higher Standard” and other intellectual competitions of the university. “Without these guys, not a single project of our directorate would have taken place. They are the best!” – she concluded.

    The ceremony of honoring the diploma winners ended with a collective performance of the student anthem “Gaudeamus”, after which all its participants were awarded the Olympiad diplomas and medals in the lobby of the Center of Cultures. Some of them shared their impressions with the news service “Vyshka.Glavnoe”.

    “The Highest Standard” is a combination of all the best that can be found at the Olympiad, says Erland Glukhov, a 10th-grader at the AMTEK General Education Lyceum in Cherepovets. “I participated in the in-person stage in Moscow, my friends in St. Petersburg and Nizhny Novgorod, and everyone was happy with the organization of the process and the support of the participants. I especially like the tasks: they are designed in an unconventional way, they include interesting elements, and they are really interesting to solve.”

    According to Erland, behind every victory at the Olympics there is, first and foremost, hard work, not only your own, but also that of your mentors, as well as the support of your parents.

    “When I was doing assignments in the Law profile, I had the feeling that I was in some other universe the whole time, that I fell asleep in the first minute and woke up in the last minute, when everything was already done,” said Alexander Gimpelson, a 10th-grade student at School No. 7 “Russian Classical School” in Ryazan. “The assignments required a creative approach, and it was always necessary not only to reproduce the provisions of the laws, but also to understand them, evaluate them from different angles, and show how they can be applied in practice.”

    In preparation for the Olympiad, Alexander mastered scientific literature, thanks to which “these complex adverbial participial phrases, thirty subordinate clauses in one sentence of the law became lively and understandable.” In a year, he plans to enroll in the Faculty of Law at the National Research University Higher School of Economics and subsequently specialize in the field of private law.

    11th-grader Polina Platonova from the Vladimir region has been participating in Olympiads since the 4th grade. This year she went to Nizhny Novgorod for the “Highest Standard”, and she associates the in-person round competitions with both a holiday and a tense struggle. The girl is considering the possibility of entering the National Research University Higher School of Economics – Nizhny Novgorod and also associates her further professional development with jurisprudence.

    Albina Markaryan, an 11th-grader from Voronezh, participated in the final round in her hometown and will be applying to the HSE for a bachelor’s degree in International Relations this year. Before the awards ceremony, she walked around the atrium (“everything was organized wonderfully, lots of competitions and entertainment”), she liked everything in the university building, and she has no doubt that if she is accepted, these feelings will not only remain, but will also intensify.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why social media injury recovery videos could do more harm than help

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Craig Gwynne, Senior Lecturer in Podiatry, Cardiff Metropolitan University

    Studio Romantic/Shutterstock

    When Kim Kardashian glided into the launch party of her NYC SKIMS boutique on a knee scooter, a mobility aid for people with lower leg injuries – stiletto on one foot, designer cast on the other – she wasn’t just managing an injury. She was creating content.

    And she’s far from alone.

    In 2024, rapper Kid Cudi turned his own broken foot into a viral storyline, posting updates of himself on crutches and in a surgical boot after a mishap at the Coachella festival in California. These high profile injuries don’t just invite sympathy; they generate style points, followers and millions of views.

    But as injury recovery morphs into online entertainment, it raises an important question: is this trend helping people heal or encouraging risky behaviour that can delay recovery?


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


    Open any social media feed and you’ll likely stumble across videos of people hobbling through supermarkets, dancing on crutches, or sweating through workouts in a medical boot. Hashtags like #BrokenFootClub and #InjuryRecovery have spawned thriving online communities where users share advice, frustrations and recovery milestones. For many, rehab has become a public performance, complete with triumphant comeback narratives.

    And it’s not just celebrities. All sorts of people are turning their injuries, from hiking sprains to post-surgery recoveries, into digital diaries. Some offer helpful tips or emotional support, while others focus on fast-tracked progress, sometimes glossing over the slower, necessary steps that true healing demands.

    A broken foot used to mean rest. Now it can mean millions of views.

    Watching others navigate recovery can be deeply reassuring. Seeing someone joke about wobbling to the bathroom or demonstrate how to climb stairs with crutches can ease the loneliness that often comes with injury.

    And some creators are genuinely getting it right. Increasing numbers of healthcare professionals, from orthopaedic surgeons to physiotherapists and podiatrists, now use social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram to share safe exercises, realistic timelines and expert tips on navigating recovery. For people who struggle to access in-person care, this clinically sound content can be a lifeline.

    But not all content is created equal – and some can do more harm than good.

    When rest gets rebranded

    But on social media, rest isn’t always part of the narrative. The most viewed recovery videos often aren’t posted by healthcare professionals but by influencers eager to showcase rapid progress. Some discard crutches too soon, hop unaided, or attempt high-impact exercises while their bodies are still vulnerable – all for the sake of engagement.

    What’s often missing is the unglamorous reality: swelling, setbacks, rest and the slow, sometimes frustrating, pace of real healing. Bones, tendons and ligaments aren’t impressed by likes or follower counts. Healing requires time and carefully structured loading: a gradual, deliberate increase in weight bearing and movement to rebuild strength without risking re-injury.

    Ignoring this process can lead to delayed healing, chronic pain, re-injury, or even long term joint and muscle complications that can affect the knees, hips, or back.

    And this isn’t just speculation. A 2025 study examining TikTok content on acute knee injuries found that most videos were produced by non-experts and often contained incomplete or inaccurate information. Researchers warned that this misinformation may not only distort patient expectations but also lead to decisions that hinder proper recovery. Similar trends were found in anterior cruciate ligament knee injury videos, where dangerous, non-evidence based practices were widely promoted to millions of viewers.

    Healthcare professionals are now seeing the ripple effects firsthand. Many physiotherapists and podiatrists report a growing number of patients arriving with unrealistic expectations shaped by social media, rather than medical advice. Some patients feel frustrated when their recovery doesn’t match the rapid progress they see online. Others attempt risky exercises before their bodies are ready, setting themselves back.

    A 2025 study examining TikTok content on acute knee injuries found that most videos were produced by non-experts and often contained incomplete or inaccurate information. Researchers warned that this misinformation may not only distort patient expectations but also lead to decisions that hinder proper recovery.

    The World Health Organization has also flagged the dangers of online health misinformation. When social media shortcuts replace professional care, patients risk not only slower recovery but potentially more complex medical problems, while clinicians are left managing the aftermath.

    Recovery isn’t a race

    While supportive online communities can be a valuable source of comfort, the pressure to “bounce back” quickly can be dangerous. Viral videos and celebrity recoveries can create a toxic sense of comparison, tempting people to rush their own healing process.

    Research shows that the psychological drive to return to activity, particularly among younger adults, can reduce rehab compliance and sharply increase the risk of re-injury. True recovery isn’t governed by trending hashtags; it follows a personal, biologically determined timeline that requires patience, rest, and carefully structured rehabilitation.

    Seeing stars like Kim Kardashian with a designer cast might make injury look fashionable. But for most people, a broken foot is not glamorous; it’s weeks of awkward movement, discomfort, adaptation and quiet, steady healing.

    Mobility content can inspire, motivate, and connect – but it’s not a road map for your own recovery. If you’re injured, approach online content with curiosity, not comparison. Learn from others, but listen to your body. Healing is personal. Your recovery won’t be dictated by views, likes, or viral trends – it will unfold on your body’s own timetable.

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

    ref. Why social media injury recovery videos could do more harm than help – https://theconversation.com/why-social-media-injury-recovery-videos-could-do-more-harm-than-help-258533

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Where did the wonder go – and can AI help us find it?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lucy Gill-Simmen, Vice Dean for Education & Student Experience, Royal Holloway University of London

    French philosopher René Descartes crowned human reason in 1637 as the foundation of existence: Cogito, ergo sumI think, therefore I am. For centuries, our capacity to doubt, question and think has been both our compass and our identity. But what does that mean in an age where machines can “think”, generate ideas, write novels, compose symphonies and, increasingly, make decisions?

    Artificial intelligence (AI) has brought a new kind of certainty, one that is quick, data-driven and at times frighteningly precise, at times alarmingly wrong. From Google’s Gemini to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, we live in a world where answers can arrive before the question is even finished. AI has the potential to change not just how we work, but how we think. As our digital tools become more capable, we may well be justified in asking: where did the wonder go?

    We have become increasingly accustomed to optimisation. From using apps to schedule our days to improving how companies hire staff through AI-powered recruitment tools, technology has delivered on its promise of speed and efficiency.


    This article is part of our State of the Arts series. These articles tackle the challenges of the arts and heritage industry – and celebrate the wins, too.


    In education, students increasingly use AI to summarise readings and generate essay outlines; in healthcare, diagnostic models match human doctors in detecting disease.

    But in our pursuit of optimisation, we may have left something essential behind. In her book The Power of Wonder (2023), author Monica Parker describes wonder as a journey, a destination, a verb and a noun, a process and an outcome.

    Lamenting how “modern life is conditioning wonder-proneness out of us”, the author suggests we have “traded wonder for the pale facsimile of electronic novelty-seeking”. And there’s the paradox: AI gives us knowledge at scale, but may rob us of the humility and openness that spark genuine curiosity.

    AI as the antidote?

    But what if AI isn’t the killer of wonder, but its catalyst? The same technologies that predict our shopping habits or generate marketing content can also create surreal art, compose jazz music and tell stories in different ways.

    Tools like DALL·E, Udio.ai, and Runway don’t just mimic human creativity, they expand our creative capacity by translating abstract ideas into visual or audio outputs instantly. They don’t just mimic creativity, they open it up to anyone, enabling new forms of self-expression and speculative thinking.

    The same power that enables AI to open imaginative possibilities can also blur the line between fact and fiction, which is especially risky in education where critical thinking and truth-seeking are paramount. That’s why it’s essential that we teach students not just to use these tools, but to question them. Teaching people to wonder isn’t about uncritical amazement – it’s about cultivating curiosity alongside discernment.

    Educators experimenting with AI in the classroom are starting to see this potential, as my recent work in the area has shown. Rather than using AI merely to automate learning, we are using it to provoke questions and to promote creativity.

    When students ask ChatGPT to write a poem in the voice of Virginia Woolf about climate change, they learn how to combine literary style with contemporary issues. They explore how AI mimics voice and meaning, then reflect on what works and what doesn’t.

    When they use AI tools to build brand storytelling campaigns, they practise turning ideas into images, sounds and messages and learn how to shape stories that connect with audiences. Students are not just using AI, they’re learning to think critically and creatively with it.

    This aligns with Brazilian philosopher Paulo Friere’s “banking” concept of education, where rather than depositing facts, educators are required to spark critical reflection. AI, when used creatively, can act as a dialogue partner, one that reflects back our assumptions, challenges our ideas and invites deeper inquiry.

    The research is mixed, and much depends on how AI is used. Left unchecked, tools like ChatGPT can encourage shortcut thinking. When used purposely as a dialogue partner, prompting reflection, testing ideas and supporting creative inquiry, studies show it can foster deeper engagement and critical thinking. The challenge is designing learning experiences that make the most of this potential.

    A new kind of curiosity

    Wonder isn’t driven by novelty alone, it’s about questioning the familiar. Philosopher Martha Nussbaum describes wonder as “taking us out of ourselves and toward the other”. In this way, AI’s outputs have the potential to jolt people out of cognitive ruts and into new realms of thought, causing them to experience wonder.

    It could be argued that AI becomes both mirror and muse. It holds up a reflection of our culture, biases and blind spots while nudging us toward the imaginative unknown at the same time. Much like the ancient role of the fool in King Lear’s court, it disrupts and delights, offering insights precisely because it doesn’t think like humans do.

    This repositions AI not as a rival to human intelligence, but as a co-creator of wonder, a thought partner in the truest sense.

    Descartes saw doubt as the path to certainty. Today, however, we crave certainty and often avoid doubt. In a world overwhelmed by information and polarisation, there is comfort in clean answers and predictive models. But perhaps what we need most is the courage to ask questions, to really wonder about things.

    The German poet Rainer Maria Rilke once advised: “Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves.”

    AI can generate perspectives, juxtapositions and “what if” scenarios that challenge students’ habitual ways of thinking. The point isn’t to replace critical thinking, but to spark it in new directions. When artists co-create with algorithms, what new aesthetics emerge that we’ve yet to imagine?

    And when policymakers engage with AI trained on other perspectives from around the world, how might their understanding and decisions be transformed? As AI reshapes how we access, interpret and generate knowledge, this encourages rethinking not just what we learn, but why and how we value knowledge at all.

    Educational philosophers such as John Dewey and Maxine Greene championed education that cultivates imagination, wonder and critical consciousness. Greene spoke of “wide-awakeness”, a state of being in the world.

    Deployed thoughtfully, AI can be a tool for wide-awakeness. In practical terms, it means designing learning experiences where AI prompts curiosity, not shortcuts; where it’s used to question assumptions, explore alternatives, and deepen understanding.

    When used in this way, I believe it can help students tell better stories, explore alternate futures and think across disciplines. This demands not only ethical design and critical digital literacy, bit also an openness to the unknown. It also demands that we, as humans, reclaim our appetite for awe.

    In the end, the most human thing about AI might be the questions it forces us to ask. Not “What’s the answer?” but “What if …?” and in that space, somewhere in between certainty and curiosity, wonder returns. The machines we built to do our thinking for us might just help us rediscover it.

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

    ref. Where did the wonder go – and can AI help us find it? – https://theconversation.com/where-did-the-wonder-go-and-can-ai-help-us-find-it-258490

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: No country for old business owners: Economic shifts create a growing challenge for America’s aging entrepreneurs

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nancy Forster-Holt, Clinical Associate Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, University of Rhode Island

    Americans love small businesses. We dedicate a week each year to applauding them, and spend Small Business Saturday shopping locally. Yet hiding in plain sight is an enormous challenge facing small business owners as they age: retiring with dignity and foresight. The current economic climate is making this even more difficult.

    As a professor who studies aging and business, I’ve long viewed small business owners’ retirement challenges as a looming crisis. The issue is now front and center for millions of entrepreneurs approaching retirement. Small enterprises make up more than half of all privately held U.S. companies, and for many of their owners, the business is their retirement plan.

    But while owners often hope to finance their golden years by selling their companies, only 20% of small businesses are ready for sale even in good times, according to the Exit Planning Institute. And right now, conditions are far from ideal. An economic stew of inflation, supply chain instability and high borrowing costs means that interest from potential buyers is cooling.

    For many business owners, retirement isn’t a distant concern. In the U.S., baby boomers – who are currently 61 to 79 years old – own about 2.3 million businesses. Altogether, they generate about US$5 billion in revenue and employ almost 25 million people. These entrepreneurs have spent decades building businesses that often are deeply rooted in their communities. They don’t have time to ride out economic chaos, and their optimism is at a 50-year low.

    New policies, new challenges

    You can’t blame them for being gloomy. Recent policy shifts have only made life harder for business owners nearing retirement. Trade instability, whipsawing tariff announcements and disrupted supply chains have eroded already thin margins. Some businesses – generally larger ones with more negotiating power – are absorbing extra costs rather than passing them on to shoppers. Others have no choice but to raise prices, to customers’ dismay. Inflation has further squeezed profits.

    At the same time, with a few notable exceptions, buyers and capital have grown scarce. Acquirers and liquidity have dried up across many sectors. The secondary market – a barometer of broader investor appetite – now sees more sellers than buyers. These are textbook symptoms of a “flight to safety,” a market shift that drags out sale timelines and depresses valuations – all while Main Street business owners age out. These entrepreneurs typically have one shot at retirement – if any.

    Adding to these woes, many small businesses are part of what economists call regional “clusters,” providing services to nearby universities, hospitals and local governments. When those anchor institutions face budget cuts – as is happening now – small business vendors are often the first to feel the impact.

    Research shows that many aging owners actually double down in weak economic times, sinking increasing amounts of time and money in a psychological pattern known as “escalating commitment.” The result is a troubling phenomenon scholars refer to as “benign entrapment.” Aging entrepreneurs can remain attached to their businesses not because they want to, but because they see no viable exit.

    This growing crisis isn’t about bad personal planning — it’s a systemic failure.

    Rewriting the playbook on small business policy

    A key mistake that policymakers make is to lump all small business owners together into one group. That causes them to overlook important differences. After all, a 68-year-old carpenter trying to retire doesn’t have much in common with a 28-year-old tech founder pitching a startup. Policymakers may cheer for high-growth “unicorns,” but they often overlook the “cows and horses” that keep local economies running.

    Even among older business owners, circumstances vary based on local conditions. Two retiring carpenters in different towns may face vastly different prospects based on the strength of their local economies. No business, and no business owner, exists in a vacuum.

    A small business owner in Rochester, Vt., discusses the challenges of retirement in a news segment from WCAX-TV.

    Relatedly, when small businesses fail to transition, it can have consequences for the local economy. Without a buyer, many enterprises will simply shut down. And while closures can be long-planned and thoughtful, when a business closes suddenly, it’s not just the owner who loses. Employees are left scrambling for work. Suppliers lose contracts. Communities lose essential services.

    Four ways to help aging entrepreneurs

    That’s why I think policymakers should reimagine how they support small businesses, especially owners nearing the end of their careers.

    First, small business policy should be tailored to age. A retirement-ready business shouldn’t be judged solely by its growth potential. Rather, policies should recognize stability and community value as markers of success. The U.S. Small Business Administration and regional agencies can provide resources specifically for retirement planning that starts early in a business’s life, to include how to increase the value of the business and a plan to attract acquirers in later stages.

    Second, exit infrastructure should be built into local entrepreneurial ecosystems. Entrepreneurial ecosystems are built to support business entry – think incubators and accelerators – but not for exit. In other words, just like there are accelerators for launching businesses, there should be programs to support winding them down. These could include confidential peer forums, retirement-readiness clinics, succession matchmaking platforms and flexible financing options for acquisition.

    Third, chaos isn’t good for anybody. Fluctuations in capital gains taxes, estate tax thresholds and tariffs make planning difficult and reduce business value in the eyes of potential buyers. Stability encourages confidence on both sides of a transaction.

    And finally, policymakers should include ripple-effect analysis in budget decisions. When universities, hospitals or governments cut spending, small business vendors often absorb much of the shock. Policymakers should account for these downstream impacts when shaping local and federal budgets.

    If we want to truly support small businesses and their owners, it’s important to honor the lifetime arc of entrepreneurship – not just the launch and growth, but the retirement, too.

    Nancy Forster-Holt does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. No country for old business owners: Economic shifts create a growing challenge for America’s aging entrepreneurs – https://theconversation.com/no-country-for-old-business-owners-economic-shifts-create-a-growing-challenge-for-americas-aging-entrepreneurs-254537

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI: New Data Presented at ADA 2025 Highlights Burden and Risk Associations of Cardiac Arrhythmias in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iRhythm Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:IRTC) announced the results from two large-scale real-world studies presented at the American Diabetes Association’s 85th Scientific Sessions (ADA 2025). The analyses reveal that cardiac arrhythmias are common and often occur early in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D)—especially those who also have chronic kidney disease (CKD). These findings suggest a critical opportunity to enhance early detection strategies in at-risk cardiometabolic populations.

    The studies examined longitudinal claims data from over 30 million U.S. adults, providing new insights into how arrhythmias—often asymptomatic—cluster around major disease inflection points. In T2D patients, arrhythmias were frequently identified prior to or shortly after diagnoses of CKD or major adverse cardiovascular events such as stroke or heart failure.

    Cardiac arrhythmias—conditions in which the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly1—are a serious public health concern. In the general U.S. population, they affect roughly 1 in 20 adults2. But in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease—already at elevated cardiovascular risk3—new data reveal that arrhythmias occur more frequently, and often much earlier, than previously recognized.

    Left undetected, certain arrhythmias can lead to stroke, heart failure, hospitalization, or even death4-6. That’s why early detection is critical—giving clinicians a chance to act before complications arise. Yet in most diabetes care pathways, arrhythmias are not routinely screened for7, and many patients experience no symptoms at all8.

    “These findings support a growing body of evidence that heart rhythm disorders are not just late-stage complications—they often emerge much earlier, silently, and in ways that may help us better identify patients at rising risk,” said Mintu Turakhia, MD, iRhythm’s Chief Medical Officer, Chief Scientific Officer, and EVP of Product Innovation. “For patients living with diabetes and kidney disease, earlier detection of these arrhythmias may offer a window to take action before more serious events occur.”

    Cardiac ArrhythmiasEarly and Frequent

    In the “Incidence of Cardiac Arrhythmias in Patients with Diabetes: A Real-World Study” (T2D-only analysis):

    • In a T2D cohort of 8.8 million individuals, over 1.1 million individuals were diagnosed with major arrhythmias.
    • 47% of arrhythmias occurred after diabetes diagnosis, with a median time of 496 days.
    • Among patients who experienced a MACE, 25% did so on or after arrhythmia detection, while 45% of MACE occurred beforehand—pointing to a complex but tightly linked risk timeline.

    In the Incidence and Timing of Major Arrhythmias in T2D and CKD: A Real-World Analysis (T2D + CKD population):

    • Among 3.2 million T2D patients who then received a CKD diagnosis, 670,003 (21%) developed a major arrhythmia, of which 397,359 (59%) occurred before CKD diagnosis.
    • Median time from T2D to arrhythmia was 488 days; median time from arrhythmia to MACE was 800 days.
    • Notably, 17% of patients who experienced a MACE did so within three days of their arrhythmia event.

    These findings suggest that arrhythmias are not only common in people with diabetes and kidney disease, but are often detected for the first time in close proximity to major cardiovascular events.

    Building on Prior Findings: A Broader Pattern Emerging

    These new results build upon findings presented by iRhythm at the American Heart Association’s (AHA) 2024 scientific sessions, which demonstrated that patients with diabetes and COPD who developed arrhythmias had:

    • Twice the hospitalization rate of those without arrhythmias
    • 35–50% higher emergency care costs
    • Hospital stays up to 5 days longer

    Additionally, real-world data presented at ACC.25 demonstrated that fewer than one in five patients experience a symptom coinciding with an arrhythmic episode. This reinforces the need to monitor patients based upon unique risk factors instead of symptoms.

    Across both ADA and AHA datasets, the real-world evidence shows a consistent signal: undiagnosed arrhythmias are clinically consequential and economically burdensome—and early rhythm detection could help change that trajectory.

    About the studies presented at ADA 2025

    Incidence of Cardiac Arrhythmias in Patients with Diabetes: A Real-World Study

    Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) contributes to development of arrhythmias through autonomic dysfunction, electrical remodeling, oxidative stress, and inflammation. This real-world evidence study examined the burden of arrhythmias in T2D and their temporal relationship with major cardiovascular events (MACE). Using a national claims database (Symphony Integrated Dataverse), study investigators identified adults with T2D (2014–2024) experiencing arrhythmias, their timing relative to T2D onset, and associations with cardiometabolic comorbidities. Among 8.8 million adults with T2D (median age: 60 years; 46% male, 54% female), a total of 1.14 million individuals developed a major arrhythmia (Table 1). Of these, 43% occurred prior to T2D; 57% developed on or after T2D. The median time to arrhythmia post T2D was 496 days (range: 1–2,007 days). Hypertension was present in 20%; 38% had at least one metabolic risk factor (chronic kidney disease, dyslipidemia, liver dysfunction, or obesity); 25% experienced a MACE either at the time of or following arrhythmias (median time:1 day; range: 0–1,925 days). MACE occurred in 45% of patients preceding the diagnosis of arrhythmia (median time: 542 days; range: 1–2,373 days). The findings highlight the burden of arrhythmias in T2D and the association between arrhythmias and MACE. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the potential strategies for early diagnosis, risk stratification and intervention.

    Incidence and Timing of Major Arrhythmias in T2D and CKD: A Real-World Analysis

    Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a leading cause of chronic renal disease (CKD). Despite strong links between T2D, CKD, and cardiovascular disease (CV), the incidence and timing of major arrhythmias in this high-risk population remains unclear. This study examined the incidence, timing, and risk associations of major arrhythmias in T2D-CKD patients. Study investigators analyzed Symphony Integrated Dataverse (2018-2024) claims data on adults with CKD (stages 1-4) following T2D, assessing arrhythmia occurrence, timing, and metabolic/CV risk factors. Among 3.2 million T2D patients subsequent CKD diagnosis (51% females, median age 73; 49% males, median age 72), 670,003 (21%) developed major arrhythmias, mainly atrial fibrillation (AF). In 59%, arrhythmias preceded CKD (56% males, median age 73; 44% females, median age 74). Median time from T2D to arrhythmia: 488 days (1-2,362); arrhythmia to CKD: 462 days (1-2,368); arrhythmia to MACE: 800 days (2-2,348). When arrhythmias followed CKD (54% males, median age 75; 46% females, median age 76), CKD-to-arrhythmia median time: 355 days (1-2,003). MACE occurred in 17% (54% males, 46% females; median age 76) within three days of arrhythmia, CKD-to-MACE median time: 461 days (1-1,998). Findings reveal that arrhythmias are common in T2D-CKD and strongly linked to MACE, suggesting that identifying shared mechanisms between T2D, CKD, and arrhythmias requires innovative diagnostic approaches, including continuous ambulatory EKG monitoring to drive early intervention and precision therapies.

    About iRhythm Technologies
    iRhythm is a leading digital health care company that creates trusted solutions that detect, predict, and prevent disease. Combining wearable biosensors and cloud-based data analytics with powerful proprietary algorithms, iRhythm distills data from millions of heartbeats into clinically actionable information. Through a relentless focus on patient care, iRhythm’s vision is to deliver better data, better insights, and better health for all.

    Media Contact
    Kassandra Perry
    irhythm@highwirepr.com

    Investor Contact
    Stephanie Zhadkevich
    investors@irhythmtech.com

    1. What is an arrhythmia? National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/arrhythmias
    2. Desai et al. Arrhythmias. StatPearls [Internet], 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558923/
    3. Swamy S, Noor SM, Mathew RO. Cardiovascular Disease in Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease. J Clin Med, 2023. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10672715/
    4. Ataklte et al. Meta-analysis of ventricular premature complexes and their relation to cardiac mortality in general populations. The American Journal of Cardiology, 2013.
    5. Lin et al. Long-Term Outcome of Non-Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia in Structurally Normal Hearts. PLOS ONE, 2016.
    6. Wolf et al. Atrial fibrillation as an independent risk factor for stroke: the Framingham Study. Stroke, 1991.
    7. Bhave, P. D., & Soliman, E. Z. (2024). Should patients with diabetes be routinely screened for atrial fibrillation? Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy, 22(1–3), 5–6. https://doi.org/10.1080/14779072.2024.2328645
    8. mSToPS Clinical Trial Demonstrates Zio by iRhythm Significantly Improves Health Outcomes for At-Risk Patient Populations, iRhythm Technologies, 2021. www.irhythmtech.com/company/news/irhythm-technologies-and-the-national-association-of-managed-care-physicians-partner-to-study-the-value-of-ambulatory-cardiac-monitoring-solutions-0.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Confirms Major Exchange Listing Ahead of Public Launch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For months, the crypto market has been searching for clarity. While most coins rely on vague promises or recycled narratives, one project is quietly building momentum with precision, community strength, and now, a major exchange catalyst that could unlock a wave of liquidity, Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S). With one of the most explosive presales of the year already underway and a confirmed LBank listing on the horizon, BTC-S is emerging as one of the most strategic altcoin opportunities heading into mid-2025.

    LBank Listing: The Spark That Changes the Trajectory

    Bitcoin Solaris has officially confirmed it will be listed on LBank, one of the most globally active centralized exchanges. For those unfamiliar, LBank is known for offering liquidity to high-growth projects that are on the verge of breaking into the mainstream. Its user base, particularly strong in Asia and Latin America, is large, engaged, and responsive to promising tokens with well-built fundamentals.

    The LBank listing isn’t just a technical step; it’s a market-defining move. It brings:

    • Immediate liquidity for early BTC-S holders
    • Exposure to millions of new users who missed the presale
    • Deeper market depth and trading volume potential
    • A psychological shift from “upcoming project” to “active coin with utility”

    More importantly, it sets the stage for Bitcoin Solaris to enter the open market at $20 per token, which is more than double the current presale phase price of $9. The window to enter before this transition is narrowing fast.

    Introducing Bitcoin Solaris: Designed for Scale, Speed, and Real Usage

    What makes Bitcoin Solaris stand out isn’t just the hype or price projections. It’s the architecture. BTC-S is a dual-layer blockchain combining Proof-of-Work on the base layer for raw security with Delegated Proof-of-Stake on the Solaris Layer for blazing-fast transactions and scalability.

    This hybrid structure allows Bitcoin Solaris to hit:

    • 10,000+ transactions per second
    • 2-second finality on smart contracts
    • 99.95% less energy use compared to Bitcoin
    • High validator rotation and slashing mechanisms for security

    It doesn’t stop at performance. BTC-S is also built for inclusivity. Mining can be done directly through the upcoming Solaris Nova App, turning everyday smartphones, laptops, or desktops into mining devices.

    And with the LBank listing near, this daily-earned BTC-S can soon be traded instantly, giving miners real-time liquidity, a feature rarely available in new ecosystems.

    Roadmap: This Isn’t Just Talk, It’s Execution

    While many tokens stall after the presale, Bitcoin Solaris is moving forward at full speed. The development roadmap provides a clear and credible path to launch and beyond.

    Here’s a look at what’s unfolding:

    • Phase 1 (Q2–Q4 2025): Token generation, presale launch, protocol development, and global community building
    • Phase 2 (Q1 2026): Testnet deployment, wallet upgrades, dual-layer optimization, and Solana integration
    • Phase 3 (Q2 2026): Final mainnet testing, centralized and decentralized exchange listings, and dev toolkits
    • Phase 4 (Q3 2026): Mainnet launch, AI-powered Solaris Nova App release, and advanced governance
    • Phases 5–8 (2026–2028): Mining Power Marketplace, enterprise integration, DEX development, and global expansion via blockchain public services and AI-powered upgrades

    Every part of the roadmap is designed to not only support BTC-S as a token but also grow it into a full-scale DeFi-capable infrastructure.

    The Future of DeFi Doesn’t Run on Hype, It Runs on BTC-S

    Presale: Final Phases Before the $20 Public Launch

    The presale is more than 80% complete, and momentum is accelerating as the LBank listing draws near. Now in Phase 9, Bitcoin Solaris is rapidly closing in on its final stage.

    Here’s what buyers need to know:

    • Current Price: $9
    • Next Phase: $10
    • Confirmed Launch Price: $20
    • Bonus: 7% for current participants
    • Over 12,300+ buyers have already joined
    • More than $5 million raised
    • Less than 6 weeks remain

    This isn’t a long-drawn-out fundraising round. The Bitcoin Solaris presale lasts only 90 days, making it one of the shortest and most effective in the space. It’s structured to finish strong and go live fast. And with the LBank listing just ahead, the urgency to buy in at sub-$10 levels is growing daily.

    What Influencers Are Saying

    The market isn’t the only one taking notice. Leading crypto analysts and influencers have started to cover Bitcoin Solaris, and they’re excited.

    • Crypto Vlog: Focused on BTC-S’s mining design and mobile accessibility
    • Crypto League: Highlighted the LBank listing and performance metrics
    • Crypto Show: Called it “one of the hottest presales launching this year”

    These independent reviews continue to validate what early supporters already believe: Bitcoin Solaris is the real deal.

    Final Verdict

    The LBank listing is more than a milestone. It’s the start of Bitcoin Solaris becoming a publicly traded, globally accessible asset. As traders prepare to buy BTC-S on open markets at $20, presale participants still have a short window to enter at $9 and capture up to 150% ROI.

    Backed by a powerful roadmap, real technology, and a mining system designed for mass adoption, Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just a presale story. It’s shaping up to be the next major launch of 2025.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
    Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
    X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

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

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and 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/678f7c64-68e6-4a48-b17a-71d89126213c

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ad5cfb07-e488-41ae-94e4-6d72f16a634a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1f6f4467-b28e-4784-bf41-cb4cc5e2a379

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/64ed1b17-3433-44f6-8919-0878a09733c9

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: EMEET Launches PIXY: The World’s First Dual-Camera AI PTZ 4K Webcam

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EMEET, the world’s leading webcam brand, is proud to reveal PIXY, its most versatile webcam yet. PIXY is the world’s first dual-camera AI-powered PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) 4K webcam, with features like super-fast 0.2-second BlinkFocus auto-focus, gesture-based PTZ subject tracking, and AI-powered enhancements for subject capture, focus, and video quality. Built as much for content creators and for working professionals, PIXY reaches new levels of utility and visual fidelity, and it’s available at retailers starting today for $159.99.

    PIXY builds on the success (and unquestionably cute design) of the EMEET Piko and Piko+. With up to 4K Ultra HD video quality and a high-performance Sony sensor, PIXY delivers a crisp and clear image, further augmented by the second AI-assisted camera. Together, this dual-camera system can handle even challenging lighting conditions, like backlit or low-light scenes, while preserving detail and optimizing facial imaging performance.

    Super-fast BlinkFocus delivers an industry-leading auto-focus system that locks on in as little as 0.2s — that’s 2.5 times faster than the industry average. PIXY’s AI-assisted face detection also works in as little as 0.2 seconds and can automatically and intelligently detect facial contours, adjusting exposure to ensure natural skin tones and a perfect balance between highlights and shadows. Add in the gesture-controlled automatic tracking, which harnesses PIXY’s ability to pan and tilt to follow you as you move around the camera, and PIXY ensures you are always sharp, clear, and framed perfectly.

    Thanks to the built-in three-microphone array, PIXY’s audio quality matches its stellar video performance. Three specially tuned audio presets (Live Mode, Noise-Cancelling Mode, and Original Sound Mode) offer flexibility to record exactly what you need, whether that’s tuning out unwanted background sounds or preserving every bit of detail.

    For content creators, PIXY offers presets for custom PTZ setups, enabling you to switch between different positions and zoom levels easily as you stream or record. The EMEET Studio companion software’s built-in AI scriptwriting feature is also there when you need a few good ideas for a voiceover or tips on how to shoot a specific shot. Our optimized presets are useful for everyone from creators to educators, with a clarity-enhancing Whiteboard Mode tuned for presenting information, an Inversion Mode for mounting the camera upside down, and even a vertical video-optimized Portrait (9:16) Mode for mounting the camera on its side.

    When you’re done recording, simply tilt PIXY down to switch into privacy mode, which holds the camera in a face-down position, clearly showing you at a glance that no one is watching — also available as an automatic timeout when the camera isn’t being accessed.

    PIXY bundles all these category-best features into a compact and cute big-eyed design that’s easy to keep eye contact with and easily mounted on top of your monitor, shelf, or tripod. And it’s even compatible with the new Nintendo Switch 2.

    PIXY is now available for $159.99 at partner retailers, including Amazon and the EMEET storefront, starting today.

    Specifications
    Camera
    Dual Camera: One imaging camera + one AI-Assisted Camera
    Sensor: Sony® 1/2.55″ sensor
    Video Resolution: 4K@30fps/1080P@60fps
    FOV(D): 73°
    Video Codecs: YUY2 / MJPEG
    Imaging Optimization: Yes. Dual Camera Enhancement
    White Balance (Light Correction): Yes

    PTZ Tracking
    Focus Speed: 0.2s
    Face Capture Speed: 0.2s
    Gesture Tracking: Raise palm to activate/pause tracking
    Maximum Tracking Distance: 19.69 feet/6 meters
    Digital Zoom: 1.5X; No zoom in 4K mode
    Focus Mode: AF/PDAF+AI focus. Facial Focus, Central Area Focus, Selected Area Focus
    Pan & Tilt angle: 310°/180°

    Audio
    Built-In Audio: 3-Mic Microphone
    Microphone Modes: Live Mode, Original Sound Mode, Noise Canceling Mode

    Compatibility
    Software: Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Cisco Webex, FaceTime, GoToMeeting, Lifesize, Slack, Line, TrueConf, OBS (and others)
    Social Media Platforms: YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Facebook (and others)
    System Compatibility: Windows (10, 11), macOS (10.14 and above), USB Video Device Class (UVC) mode, Android TV V7.0 and above, Linux

    Additional Features
    Privacy Mode: Camera moves to face down, either by manually tilting the camera into place or via a configurable timeout
    Content-specific presets: High-clarity Whiteboard mode, vertically oriented (9:16) Portrait Mode, and inverted Flip Mode for upside-down mounting
    Scriptwriting: Integrated AI-based scriptwriting assistance

    MSRP: $159.99

    About EMEET
    Established in August 2016, EMEET is a leading global company specializing in the research, development, production, and sales of AI-powered audio and video products. Focusing on collaboration, production, and creation, EMEET aims to develop an intelligent ecosystem for creative products through technological innovation and user experience optimization, endeavoring to redefine the industry standards for individual productivity tools and drive the growth of the global personal productivity market, fostering collaboration, empowering production, and inspiring creation.

    Yiming Zhan (email: yiming@museperse.com)

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f312e1d0-a98c-4ad4-9d18-2a688da2925d

    Press materials can be accessed in this press kit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qdk4E-wW54OFzo5q96xEv-hK1NEHhQ8J?usp=drive_link

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Oxbridge / SurancePlus Commences Strategic Review of Potential Digital Asset Treasury and SurancePlus Carve Out

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: OXBR) (“Oxbridge Re”), a leader in digitizing reinsurance securities as tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), together with its subsidiary SurancePlus, today announced an update to its previously announced strategic business review to maximize shareholder value.

    The Company is actively reviewing a range of strategic initiatives for the company or its Web3 subsidiary, SurancePlus Holdings—including a potential carve-out and Nasdaq listing of SurancePlus Holdings, as well as a potential financing transactions to support a digital asset treasury initiative and explore related M&A opportunities.

    Jay Madhu, CEO of Oxbridge, stated: “We view these strategic initiatives as potentially transformative opportunities that could unlock significant value for our shareholders while positioning both Oxbridge and SurancePlus for accelerated growth in their respective markets. A separate listing for SurancePlus would provide dedicated access to Web3 and digital asset investors, while our treasury strategy could strengthen our balance sheet and create new revenue streams.”

    About Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited

    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: OXBR, OXBRW) (“Oxbridge”) is headquartered in the Cayman Islands. The company offers tokenized Real-World Assets (“RWAs”) as tokenized reinsurance securities and reinsurance business solutions to property and casualty insurers, through its wholly owned subsidiaries SurancePlus Inc., Oxbridge Re NS, and Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited.

    Insurance businesses in the Gulf Coast region of the United States purchase property and casualty reinsurance through our licensed reinsurers Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited and Oxbridge Re NS.

    Our Web3-focused subsidiary, SurancePlus Inc. (“SurancePlus”), has developed the first “on chain” reinsurance RWA of its kind to be sponsored by a subsidiary of a publicly traded company. By digitizing interests in reinsurance contracts as on-chain RWAs, SurancePlus has democratized the availability of reinsurance as an alternative investment to both U.S. and non U.S. investors.

    Company Contact:

    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited
    Jay Madhu, CEO
    +1 345-749-7570
    jmadhu@oxbridgere.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but rather are subject to various risks and uncertainties. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in the section entitled “Risk Factors” contained in our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on 26th March 2025 and in our other filings with the SEC. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Any forward-looking statements made in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward looking statement contained in this press release, even if the Company’s expectations or any related events, conditions or circumstances change.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Oxbridge / SurancePlus Commences Strategic Review of Potential Digital Asset Treasury and SurancePlus Carve Out

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: OXBR) (“Oxbridge Re”), a leader in digitizing reinsurance securities as tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), together with its subsidiary SurancePlus, today announced an update to its previously announced strategic business review to maximize shareholder value.

    The Company is actively reviewing a range of strategic initiatives for the company or its Web3 subsidiary, SurancePlus Holdings—including a potential carve-out and Nasdaq listing of SurancePlus Holdings, as well as a potential financing transactions to support a digital asset treasury initiative and explore related M&A opportunities.

    Jay Madhu, CEO of Oxbridge, stated: “We view these strategic initiatives as potentially transformative opportunities that could unlock significant value for our shareholders while positioning both Oxbridge and SurancePlus for accelerated growth in their respective markets. A separate listing for SurancePlus would provide dedicated access to Web3 and digital asset investors, while our treasury strategy could strengthen our balance sheet and create new revenue streams.”

    About Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited

    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: OXBR, OXBRW) (“Oxbridge”) is headquartered in the Cayman Islands. The company offers tokenized Real-World Assets (“RWAs”) as tokenized reinsurance securities and reinsurance business solutions to property and casualty insurers, through its wholly owned subsidiaries SurancePlus Inc., Oxbridge Re NS, and Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited.

    Insurance businesses in the Gulf Coast region of the United States purchase property and casualty reinsurance through our licensed reinsurers Oxbridge Reinsurance Limited and Oxbridge Re NS.

    Our Web3-focused subsidiary, SurancePlus Inc. (“SurancePlus”), has developed the first “on chain” reinsurance RWA of its kind to be sponsored by a subsidiary of a publicly traded company. By digitizing interests in reinsurance contracts as on-chain RWAs, SurancePlus has democratized the availability of reinsurance as an alternative investment to both U.S. and non U.S. investors.

    Company Contact:

    Oxbridge Re Holdings Limited
    Jay Madhu, CEO
    +1 345-749-7570
    jmadhu@oxbridgere.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but rather are subject to various risks and uncertainties. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in the section entitled “Risk Factors” contained in our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on 26th March 2025 and in our other filings with the SEC. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Any forward-looking statements made in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward looking statement contained in this press release, even if the Company’s expectations or any related events, conditions or circumstances change.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Topnotch Crypto Unveils Exclusive XRP Cloud Mining Contracts with Instant Rewards and Flexible Terms

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the XRP community eagerly awaits significant price movements, Topnotch Crypto, a leading innovator in cloud mining solutions, today announced the launch of its new suite of XRP cloud mining contracts. Designed to provide immediate value and flexible earning opportunities, these contracts allow XRP holders to generate consistent daily income, regardless of market volatility.

    Despite continued anticipation for XRP to reach new highs, the asset has demonstrated periods of consolidation. Topnotch Crypto’s new XRP cloud mining contracts offer a strategic avenue for investors to maximize their holdings by earning passive income during these phases.

    “We understand the patience and dedication of the XRP community,” said a spokesperson for Topnotch Crypto. “Our new XRP cloud mining contracts are tailored to empower holders, offering a straightforward and efficient way to earn predictable returns daily, turning waiting periods into earning opportunities. We are committed to providing top-notch solutions that align with the evolving needs of the crypto market.”

    Harnessing the Power of XRP Cloud Mining with Topnotch Crypto

    Topnotch Crypto’s cloud mining platform removes the traditional barriers to cryptocurrency mining, such as expensive hardware, technical complexities, and high electricity costs. Utilizing advanced infrastructure and AI-driven optimization, Topnotch Crypto simulates yield through a fully remote and streamlined process.

    Key Features of Topnotch Crypto’s XRP Cloud Mining Contracts:

    • No Hardware, No Hassle: Participate in XRP mining without the need for specialized equipment or technical expertise.
    • Daily Payouts: Receive mining rewards credited directly to your account every day, ensuring predictable cash flow.
    • Robust Security: Benefit from Topnotch Crypto’s industry-leading security protocols, safeguarding your assets with utmost care.
    • Flexible Contract Options: Choose from a variety of short-term and long-term contracts designed to suit diverse investment strategies and risk appetites.

    Diverse Plans for Every Investor Profile:

    Topnotch Crypto offers a range of XRP cloud mining contracts, catering to both new and experienced investors:

    • Classic contract: suitable for novices to try, short cycle, experience the complete process.
    • Steady contract: balance income and cycle, suitable for users who want stable accumulation.
    • Advanced contract: suitable for long-term coin holders, get higher computing power configuration and better income.
    • Click here to view complete contract details

    These flexible options provide XRP holders with a practical approach to stay engaged in the ecosystem and generate steady returns as the token builds momentum.

    Why Choose Topnotch Crypto for XRP Mining?

    • 100% Remote Access: Activate and manage your mining plans from anywhere, anytime, with just an internet connection.
    • Advanced AI Optimization: Our proprietary AI ensures optimized yield and profitability, even during market fluctuations.
    • Transparent Daily Rewards: Enjoy clear and predictable XRP payouts that enhance your portfolio’s cash flow and mitigate volatility risks.
    • Dedicated Support: Access a responsive customer support team ready to assist with any queries.

    Getting Started with Topnotch Crypto is Simple:

    1. Register a platform account and you will receive $15, and you will receive a $0.6 reward for daily sign-in
    2. Select Your Contract: Browse our range of XRP cloud mining contracts and choose the one that fits your goals.
    3. Start Earning: Activate your chosen plan and begin receiving daily XRP rewards automatically.

    Topnotch Crypto is committed to making cryptocurrency mining accessible and profitable for everyone. Our platform is built on a foundation of security, efficiency, and user-centric design, allowing users to mine leading cryptocurrencies without the need for expensive rigs or in-depth technical knowledge.

    Don’t wait for the next XRP rally to start earning. Explore the future of XRP mining with Topnotch Crypto today at https://topnotchcrypto.com

    About Topnotch Crypto:

    Topnotch Crypto is a pioneering force in the cloud-based cryptocurrency mining industry, dedicated to democratizing access to passive income opportunities. With a focus on secure, AI-powered, and environmentally conscious infrastructure, Topnotch Crypto empowers users worldwide to mine popular cryptocurrencies through an intuitive and efficient platform.

    More information:

    Official website: https://topnotchcrypto.com

    APP download: https://topnotchcrypto.com/xml/index.html#/app

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. It is strongly recommended that you perform your own due diligence and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions in cryptocurrencies and securities.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three men jailed for a series of watch robberies

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Three men have been jailed following a Met Police investigation into a series of high-value watch robberies in central London.

    Met detectives used CCTV to identify the group of violent repeat offenders who carried out two robberies on consecutive days.

    The Met is focused on reducing the number of robberies taking place on the streets of London by targeting robbery hotspots with increased patrols. This action prevents and deters robberies from taking place, as we work to identify, apprehend and deter potential offenders.

    In this case, detectives tenaciously recovered and viewed hours of CCTV footage to link one vehicle and offenders to the three robberies, discovering the offenders had conducted surveillance on members of the public to identify their victims.

    On 25 June and 26 June 2024, the group struck. Three victims across Stratton Street and Brewer Street in Mayfair were threatened with violence as they tried to prevent the robbers from making off with their high value watches – two of which were stolen.

    The offenders were arrested on 30 July 2024 and clothing worn at the time of the offences was recovered, cementing the links between the offenders and the incidents. The offenders were later charged and remanded in custody.

    Detective Inspector Lizzie Beeston, who led the Met’s investigation, said: “Our investigation has ensured three violent offenders have been removed from our streets.

    “Every robbery has a significant impact on the victim. This is a violent crime that leaves a significant, lasting effect on the victim.

    “Tackling violent crime in all its forms is one of the Met’s priorities and we are determined to reduce the number of robberies. As part of the New Met for London Plan, localised proactive teams have been set up to deal with robberies affecting our local communities.”

    Tedros Haile, 35 (08.09.89) of Fulham Palace Road, Hammersmith, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery on 25 June 2024 at Southwark Crown Court. He was later found guilty of a further count of robbery and one charge of attempted robbery following a trial at the same court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.

    Mahad Jammeh, 24 (10.07.00) of Beaconsfield Road, Enfield and Christian Whittingham, 27 (11.11.97) of Granville Road, Uxbridge pleaded guilty to one count of robbery on 28 August 2024. They later pleaded guilty the two further counts on 4 November 2024.

    Haile and Jammeh attended Southwark Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday, 17 April. Haile was sentenced to 11 years and Jammeh was sentenced to 8 years.

    Christian Whittingham, 27 (11.11.97) of Granville Road, Uxbridge, was sentenced on the same charges at Southwark Crown Court on Friday, 20 June. Whittingham was sentenced to 10 years and six months.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: BYDFi MoonX Launches Global KOL Recruitment to Accelerate the On-Chain Trading Ecosystems

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MoonX, the on-chain MemeCoin trading tool developed by leading crypto exchange BYDFi, today officially launched its Global KOL Recruitment Program. This initiative invites content creators, community leaders, and MemeCoin-savvy influencers to join MoonX as partners in shaping the next phase of Web3 trading.

    Ambassador Program: Growth & Rewards

    MoonX’s Global KOL Recruitment Program offers meme-savvy influencers the opportunity to collaborate with one of Web3’s fastest-growing trading tools. Participants gain access to exclusive creator incentives, including monthly content rewards, support for hosting online events with token prizes, and opportunities to represent MoonX at global industry conferences. Top performers may be invited to join long-term ambassador roles with revenue-sharing or token-based incentives. MoonX also regularly recognizes outstanding creators with additional rewards based on creativity and community impact.

    This program is designed for creators who want to expand their presence in Web3, build professional ties with an emerging DEX-native product, and help shape the next phase of decentralized MemeCoin trading.

    For more details about the program: https://www.bydfi.com/en/activities/detail?id=1142427593824681985

    How Creators Support MoonX’s Mission

    MoonX isn’t just looking for promoters—it’s inviting partners. The campaign welcomes creators who are excited to educate, engage, and empower the MemeCoin trading community. Whether it’s publishing explainers, hosting AMAs, sharing analysis, or spotlighting hidden gems, selected KOLs are expected to help new users discover and navigate MoonX’s advanced trading tools. The goal is to drive community-led growth that brings visibility and credibility to the dynamic landscape of MemeCoin trading.

    MoonX Feature Updates

    To better serve its active trading community, MoonX has recently introduced two advanced features:

    • Bubble Map: A dynamic visual interface that maps trending MemeCoins using real-time data on volume and price action. Tokens appear as bubbles sized and colored by momentum indicators, helping traders quickly identify capital flows and spot breakout assets.
    • Telegram Signal Bot: A multilingual alert system that pushes timely updates on-chain signals, major wallet movements, and new token activity. Users can choose between high-frequency and low-frequency modes to match their trading pace and information needs.

    These new tools provide traders with a quicker and more precise read on the MemeCoin market, enabling them to act with confidence as opportunities emerge. MoonX will continue to add features to help users stay ahead in the fast-paced on-chain arena.

    How MoonX Powers BYDFi’s On-Chain Vision

    MoonX is a critical part of BYDFi’s CEX + DEX dual-engine model. While BYDFi delivers speed and stability through centralized infrastructure, MoonX enhances user access to decentralized trading by offering improved visibility, live trading intelligence, and early discovery of market trends. By analyzing on-chain activity and surfacing token movements directly from DEX liquidity pools, MoonX equips traders with the tools to move faster and respond with clarity and precision.

    As crypto trading matures, the fusion of CEX performance and DEX transparency is no longer optional—it’s essential. We believe the real innovation lies in combining the speed and liquidity of centralized platforms with the transparency and security of on-chain systems, said Michael, Co-founder & CEO of BYDFi. MoonX is built on that principle, helping traders navigate the decentralized market with sharper tools and faster execution.

    With the launch of its KOL recruitment and feature expansion, MoonX is reinforcing its mission: to be the go-to trading tool for MemeCoin hunters, while powering a broader movement toward smarter, community-driven crypto trading.

    About BYDFi

    Founded in 2020, BYDFi now serves a community of 1,000,000+ users across more than 190 countries and regions. Recognized by Forbes as one of the Best Crypto Exchanges & Apps for Beginners of 2025, BYDFi offers a full range of trading services—from spot and perpetual contracts to copy trading, automated bots, and on-chain tools—empowering both new and seasoned traders to explore the digital asset space with confidence.

    BYDFi is committed to providing a world-class crypto trading experience for every user.

    BUIDL Your Dream Finance.

    • Website: https://www.bydfi.com
    • Support email: cs@bydfi.com
    • Business partnerships: bd@bydfi.com
    • Media inquiries: media@bydfi.com

    Twitter( X ) | LinkedIn | Telegram | YouTube | How to Buy on BYDFi

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/28be3023-908e-45ca-8a07-3f630d49d803

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £380 million boost for creative industries to help drive innovation, regional growth and investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £380 million boost for creative industries to help drive innovation, regional growth and investment

    Thousands of creative professionals and businesses across the UK are set to benefit from a new £380 million investment package as part of the Creative Industries Sector Plan.

    • £380 million in targeted funding to support innovation, access to finance, R&D, skills and regional growth across the UK as part of Creative Industries Sector Plan

    • Sector Plan set to nearly double business investment in creative industries to £31 billion by 2035 with 2,000 new film and TV apprenticeships to be delivered

    • Comes as part of Industrial Strategy which sets out government’s ten-year plan to make the UK the best place to do business and unlock growth as part of the Plan for Change

    • New Creative Content Exchange will be a marketplace to sell, buy, license and enable permitted access to digitised cultural and creative assets

    From grassroots music venues to world-class film studios, thousands of creative professionals and businesses across the UK are set to benefit from a new £380 million investment package.

    The investment underpins the Creative Industries Sector Plan, which sets out a clear direction on how the Government aims to build a sector that drives regional growth, is financially resilient and is globally competitive.

    Published alongside the Government’s Industrial Strategy today (23 June), the plan outlines a bold vision to nearly double business investment in the sector by 2035 – from £17 billion to £31 billion – cementing the UK’s position as a global creative superpower.

    The £380 million package is part of the wider plan to deliver targeted investment to create thousands of new jobs and opportunities in sub-sectors like film and TV, music, performing and visual arts, video games and advertising, while generating economic growth in six regions outside London over the next three years.

    The wider plan also includes a significant increase in support available from the British Business Bank (BBB), as part of its £4 billion Industrial Strategy Growth Capital, which will help creative businesses grow and create jobs.

    The Sector Plan aims to make the UK the best place globally to invest in creativity and drive innovation and tech adoption by 2035, with targeted support for:

    • A £150 million Creative Places Growth Fund for six regions outside London, empowering local Mayors to support creative businesses in their communities with access to finance, mentoring and networking opportunities to help them connect with investors and skills programmes. 
    • At least £50 million for a new wave of Creative Industries Clusters across the UK to accelerate research and development, doubling investment from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in clusters to £100 million. Clusters bring together universities, businesses, local and regional policymakers, and private funders to drive research, innovation and growth in the creative industries.
    • £25 million for five new innovative UKRI CoSTAR R&D labs and two showcase spaces, which will develop cutting-edge technologies like those used in Abba Voyage and award-winning theatre productions such as last year’s Olivier Award-winning stage adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray.

    Building on the Government’s commitment to ensure a robust copyright regime and support UK IP, the plan includes the establishment of a Creative Content Exchange. It will act as a trusted marketplace for selling, buying, licensing and enabling permitted access to digitised cultural and creative assets, opening up new revenue streams for content owners.

    The industry plan responds directly to what the sector has said it needs – better access to finance, stronger skills pipelines, and support for innovation – and lays out a roadmap to deliver it.

    This includes upskilling the next generation of creative talent through a £10 million investment in the National Film and Television School (NFTS) which will help to train 2,000 new trainees and apprentices over the next decade – backed by industry giants such as the Walt Disney Company, the Dana and Albert R. Broccoli Foundation, and Sky.

    The investment will also go towards a new £9 million creative careers service, which will help raise awareness of opportunities and provide pathways into the sector for young people. 

    The UK’s leading creative industries, recognised across the world, are a major driver of economic growth as part of the Plan for Change – driving in £124 billion a year to our economy and employing 2.4 million people across the UK. Over the last decade the sector has increased its output more than one and a half times faster than the rest of the economy.                  

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

    Our creative industries are powerful economic drivers in this country. By placing them at the heart of our Industrial Strategy this Sector Plan, backed by £380 million of investment, will boost regional growth, stimulate private investment, and create thousands more high-quality jobs.

    This Sector Plan will help nearly double business investment to £31 billion by 2035, supporting our mission to raise living standards everywhere as part of our Plan for Change, ensuring the UK remains the world’s creative powerhouse.

     Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The UK’s creative industries are world-leading and have a huge cultural impact globally, which is why we’re championing them at home and abroad as a key growth sector in our Modern Industrial Strategy.

    We’ve seen the power of investment, with this Government welcoming around £100 billion into the UK since taking office, and our Strategy will not only ensure that the UK is the best country to invest and do business in, but deliver economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets.

    Sir Peter Bazalgette, Co-Chair, Creative Industries Council, said: 

    This ambitious plan for growth represents a coming of age for the creative sector. Crucially the plans for R&D funding and Access to Finance for SMEs are exciting step changes.

    Baroness Shriti Vadera, co-chair of the Creative Industries Council, said: 

    This strategy recognises that the UK Creative Industries are one of the most innovative sectors in the UK economy and have a strong comparative advantage internationally. The work now begins to cement their role as a driver of growth and a global creative super power.

    The investment also includes tailored packages for high-growth sub-sectors through:

    • A £75 million Screen Growth Package supporting UK content development and international investment, and showcasing the best of UK and international film. This includes an enlarged UK Global Screen Fund and scaled-up BFI Film Academy to support 16–25 year olds from underrepresented backgrounds to enter the film industry.
    • A Music Growth Package worth up to £30 million, helping emerging artists break through at home and abroad. Measures will create new touring, performance, mentoring and export opportunities for emerging talent, while also delivering a significant uplift in funding for the grassroots sector to support small venues and help them to platform more high-potential artists.
    • A £30 million Video Games Growth Package, backing the next generation of start-up games studios and developers. This will drive inward investment in the sector through expansion of the UK Games Fund (UKGF) as well as new support for the London Games Festival.

    The Sector Plan also includes support for emerging fashion designers through the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN programme, to help them showcase their work at London Fashion Week and secure business mentoring.

    The Creative Industries Sector Plan maps out in detail how the Government will support the sector to grow even further over the next decade through a focus on boosting regional growth, innovation, access to finance, skills and exports.

    It will also see the Department for Business and Trade ramp up the number of creative trade missions and markets it targets, such as in the Asia-Pacific. Funding will be increased for major creative trade shows such as SXSW and Cannes Lions.

    The Sector Plan was developed in partnership with the Creative Industries Taskforce, Creative Industries Council, businesses, devolved governments, and regional stakeholders. It builds on the recent £270 million Arts Everywhere Fund supporting cultural venues across the nation.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    • The full Creative Industries Sector Plan can be found here.
    • The British Business Bank (BBB) is a state-owned economic development bank established by the UK Government. Its aim is to increase the supply of credit to small and medium-sized businesses and provide business advice services.
    • The BBB has significantly increased its support for the creative industries as part of its £4 billion Industrial Strategy Growth Capital, including through support with debt and equity finance. 
    • The new £150 million Creative Places Growth Fund will be devolved to six Mayoral Strategic Authorities: West Midlands, West of England, West Yorkshire, the North East, Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester. 
    • CoSTAR labs and the Creative Industries Clusters are delivered by the UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council.
    • The new Music Growth Package worth up to £30 million follows the Government advocating for an industry-led levy on stadium and arena tickets to support grassroots music. 
    • The establishment of a Creative Content Exchange will act as a trusted marketplace for selling, buying, licensing and enabling permitted access to digitised cultural and creative assets. This new marketplace will open up new revenue streams and allow content owners to commercialise and financialise their assets while providing data users with ease of access.
    • The Sector Plan follows the Government’s recent announcement of more than £270 million that will be invested in arts venues, museums, libraries and heritage buildings as part of the Arts Everywhere Fund, to help organisations in need of support to stay up and running, carry out vital infrastructure work and improve their financial resilience.

    Further quotes

    Caroline Norbury, Chief Executive, Creative UK, said:

    The Sector Plan signals that the creative industries are central to the UK’s growth story. From freelancers to scale-ups, this is a step towards the joined-up support our sector needs – and Creative UK stands ready to work with government and industry partners to turn ambition into action. 

    As we move into delivery mode, it’s essential that all parts of the sector – from cultural organisations to creative tech firms – are empowered to grow, invest and contribute fully to the UK’s economic future.

    Ben Roberts, Chief Executive, BFI, said:

    We welcome the Government’s decision to put the creative industries at the centre of its growth strategy. The UK’s screen sector is already a global leader, generating billions for the economy and pioneering new ideas. 

    With a firm focus on developing the sector across the UK, this investment can unlock fresh opportunities – from growing the sector’s talent pool and strengthening creative clusters nationwide, to opening new international markets for UK screen businesses and advancing creative technology innovation, including the CoSTAR work which the BFI is proud to be a partner on.

    UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl said:

    UK Music welcomes the Government’s creative industries sector plan and the important status that it gives to music. The plan rightly recognises our world-beating £7.6 billion music sector as an essential high growth driving part of the creative industries.

    It is hugely welcome that funding packages and programmes are being made available to turbocharge the music industry and we are incredibly excited at the opportunity to be working with the Government to deliver on this.

    Barbara Broccoli, EON Productions, said:

    I’m thrilled the Government is joining forces with the National Film and Television School as part of its Industrial Strategy. The NFTS is a world-class institution that has trained some of the most talented members of our industry and I’m especially pleased this investment will focus on much needed support for persons with disabilities.

    Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, Sky Studios and Chief Content Officer, Sky, said:

    Sky is proud to support the National Film and Television School’s expansion plans and growth ambitions, as part of the Government’s Industrial Strategy. As one of the world’s leading institutions for film, television and games, the NFTS plays a vital role in developing the UK’s creative talent. Our investment underscores our commitment to skills development and sector growth, and we’re excited to see future generations benefit from the school’s outstanding work.

    Jon Wardle, Director, National Film and Television School, said:

    The real world impact of the Sector Plan in action will be felt through the NFTS’s expanded ability to train world-class, diverse talent and fuel growth in a sector where the UK is a global leader. In a challenging climate for the creative industries, the support from the government isn’t just welcome, it’s strategic.  This investment in the NFTS reinforces a commitment to skills, innovation, and the long-term future of the creative economy.

    Wayne Garvie, President International Production, Sony Pictures Television, said:

    The NFTS is an unparalleled training ground for British creativity and it’s wonderful that the Government both recognises the importance of the film and television sector in its Industrial Strategy and the role the NFTS plays in developing the next generation of great British creative talent.

    Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, said:

    Ambition, excellence and innovation are the golden threads that run through the work of our artists, musicians, dancers, actors, writers, directors and producers. It’s what we’re famous for here at home and on the international stage. This new plan highlights the breadth and brilliance of our nation’s creative professionals and cultural organisations. It provides a roadmap for supercharging the growth of our sector and for nurturing the next generation of British talent, creating jobs across the country and delighting audiences here and around the globe.

    Andrew Georgiou, President & Managing Director for Warner Bros. Discovery UK & Ireland and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, said:

    We welcome this announcement confirming the government’s commitment to invest £375 million to turbocharge the UK’s creative industries. Their mission to drive growth across the country, unlocking new jobs and enabling talent to thrive in every nation and region, strongly resonates with Warner Bros. Discovery. 

    We have a proud UK heritage – present for over 90 years, with a significant employee base which extends North to South across 5 cities. The UK is our biggest base outside of the US and, in our view, one of the best places in the world to do business. We remain committed to the UK and our ambition to grow and strengthen our sector and welcome the government’s announcement to do this. We look forward to a continued and productive relationship between Government and the industry.” 

    Alison Lomax, Managing Director for YouTube UK & Ireland, said: 

    We welcome the Creative Industries Sector Plan’s commitment to a robust framework for creatives across the UK. It’s particularly encouraging to see the government acknowledge the digital creator economy’s vital role in driving growth for our creative industries. By embracing new distribution models that boost our cultural exports, this vision will solidify the UK’s position as a global cultural superpower.

    Nick Poole OBE, Chief Executive, Ukie, said:

    On behalf of the UK’s world-leading video game and interactive entertainment sector, we welcome the measures set out today by the Government to supercharge our Creative Industries as part of the Industrial Strategy. Today’s announcement is both a validation of the huge cultural and economic impact of video games and an opportunity to show the world we are open for business.” 

    Stephen Woodford, CEO, Advertising Association, said:

    Our industry welcomes the recognition of advertising as a priority sector for growth in the Creative Industries Sector Plan – we are a world leader in creativity as proven by our successful performance once again at Cannes Lions this year. 

    This strategy is a platform for growth for the next decade across our regions and nations. We welcome the incentives to attract new talent to join our industry, and we commit to working together to strengthen work that helps businesses innovate, compete in the UK and internationally, and create jobs.

    Professor Christopher Smith, UKRI Creative Industries Champion, and Executive Chair of the UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council, said:

    The creative industries are a powerful engine for growth in the UK economy but they are also vital for scientific advance. This Spending Review commits UKRI to a coherent and concerted strategic investment, from the UK’s national capability for the creative industries, CoSTAR, to the Creative Industries Clusters Programme and beyond.

    The deep synergies between creative content and the most cutting-edge science in universities and R&D intensive businesses across the UK place creative industries at the heart of UKRI’s commitment to excellent science for a growing economy.

    Professor Hasan Bakhshi MBE, Director of the Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre and Professor of Economics of the Creative Industries at Newcastle University, said:

    Today’s new Sector Plan for the creative industries sets out the Government’s priorities for the next 10 years, and the Creative PEC – thanks to our funder, the AHRC – stands ready to provide policymakers and industry with the data and evidence they need to enact it. 

    The commitment to increase public investment in creative industries R&D is especially important, alongside the prioritisation of the sector by the British Business Bank. Also welcome is HMRC’s clarification that arts activities that directly contribute to scientific advance by resolving scientific or technological uncertainties fall within the definition of R&D for R&D tax reliefs. Together these measures should have a catalytic effect in driving more private finance into the sector.

    Mel Sullivan, Chief Executive, Framestore, said:

    The UK is home to highly skilled and exceptionally creative artists, technologists, and thinkers who push the boundaries of what’s possible. The Creative Industries Sector Plan is a powerful show of support to those working in visual effects, film, TV, advertising, and immersive experiences. It will release unlocked potential and open doors to a new wave of talent across the country, giving them the confidence to build their skills, ideas, and innovations here, cementing the UK’s position as a global leader for years to come.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Powering Britain’s Future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Powering Britain’s Future

    Electricity costs for businesses – including potentially hundreds in Scotland – to be slashed as Industrial Strategy launched to unlock investment and new jobs

    More than 7,000 British businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25% from 2027, as the Government unveils its bold new Industrial Strategy today [Monday 23 June].

    The modern Industrial Strategy sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business by tackling two of the biggest barriers facing UK industry – high electricity prices and long waits for grid connections.

    British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

    For too long these challenges have held back growth and made it harder for British firms to compete. Today’s announcement marks a decisive shift — with government stepping in to support industry and unlock the UK’s economic potential.

    From 2027, the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity costs by up to £40 per megawatt hour for over 7,000 electricity-intensive businesses in manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace and chemicals. Hundreds of Scottish businesses could be in line to benefit.

    These firms, which support over 300,000 skilled jobs, will be exempt from paying levies such as the Renewables Obligation, Feed-in Tariffs and the Capacity Market — helping level the playing field and make them more internationally competitive. Eligibility and further details on the exemptions will be determined following consultation, which will be launched shortly.

    The government is also increasing support for the most energy-intensive firms — like steel, chemicals, and glass — by covering more of the electricity network charges they normally have to pay through the British Industry Supercharger. These businesses currently get a 60% discount on those charges, but from 2026, that will increase to 90%. This means their electricity bills will go down, helping them stay competitive, protect jobs, and invest in the future.

    This will help around 500 eligible businesses in sectors such as steel, ceramics and glass reduce their costs and protect jobs in industries that are the backbone of our economy and will be delivered at no additional cost to the taxpayer. The support for steel manufacturing is crucial as it’s a critical enabling industry for Scotland’s world leading defence and renewable energy sectors.

    These reforms complement the government’s long-term mission for clean power, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets.

    To ensure businesses can grow and hire without delay, the government will also deliver a new Connections Accelerator Service to streamline grid access for major investment projects — including prioritising those that create high-quality jobs and deliver significant economic benefits.

    We will work closely with the energy sector, local authorities, Scottish and Welsh Governments, trade unions, and industry to design this service, which we expect to begin operating at the end of 2025. New powers in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently before parliament, could also allow the Government to reserve grid capacity for strategically important projects, cutting waiting times and unlocking growth in key sectors.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray today visited a new industrial development in East Lothian, on the site of a former coal-fired power station. The redevelopment site is partly funded by an £11 million UK Government investment, and includes the construction of a new interconnecter to take power from the Inchcape offshore wind farm to the National Grid. 

    Also joint Department for Business and Trade/HM Treasury Minister for Investment, Baroness Poppy Gustafsson, will meet senior figures from Dundee’s life sciences and tech, gaming, and creative sectors later. 

    Speaking ahead of his visit Mr Murray said:

    Scotland is rightly at the heart of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy with our businesses and expertise integral to further creating jobs and economic growth through the eight sectors identified.

    Advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative Industries, defence, digital and technologies, financial services, life sciences and professional and business services, Scotland excels at them all. But we have the potential to go much further. And by slashing electricity costs for Scottish businesses, increasing business investment and cutting red tape the UK Government is helping turbocharge the economy, create jobs and put more money in the pockets of working Scots as part of our Plan for Change.

    We have a proud industrial heritage and with this new comprehensive 10 year strategy Scotland and the wider UK has an exciting future.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    The UK has some of the most innovative businesses in the world and our Plan for Change has provided them with the stability they need to grow and for more to be created.

    Today’s Industrial Strategy builds on that progress with a ten-year plan to slash barriers to investment. It’ll see billions of pounds for investment and cutting-edge tech, ease energy costs, and upskill the nation. It will ensure the industries that make Britain great can thrive. It will boost our economy and create jobs that put more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We’ve said from day one Britain is back in business under this government, and the £100 billion of investment we’ve secured in the past year shows our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people.

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy will ensure the UK is the best country to invest and do business, delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets and pays for our NHS, schools and military.

    Not only does this Strategy prioritise investment to attract billions for new business sites, cutting-edge research, and better transport links, it will also make our industrial electricity prices more competitive.

    Tackling energy costs and fixing skills has been the single biggest ask of us from businesses and the greatest challenge they’ve faced – this government has listened, and now we’re taking the bold action needed. Government and business working hand in hand to make working people better off is what this Government promised and what we will deliver.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    For too long high electricity costs have held back British businesses, as a result of our reliance on gas sold on volatile international markets.

    As part of our modern industrial strategy we’re unlocking the potential of British industry by slashing industrial electricity prices in key sectors.

    We’re also doubling down on our clean power strengths with increased investment in growth industries from offshore wind to nuclear. This will deliver on our clean power mission and Plan for Change to bring down bills for households and businesses for good.

    The Supercharger and British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will be funded through reforms to the energy system. The government is reducing costs within the system to free up funding without raising household bills or taxes and intends to also use additional funds from the strengthening of UK carbon pricing, including as a result of linking with the EU carbon market.

    We have set out an intention to link emissions trading systems, as part of our new agreement with the European Union to support British businesses. Without an agreement to do this, British industry would have to pay the EU’s carbon tax.

    We intend to link our carbon pricing system with the EU’s, we will ensure that money stays in the UK—which allows us to support British companies and British jobs through these schemes.

    Building on the Spending Review and the recently announced 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, the Industrial Strategy is the latest step forward in our plans to deliver national renewal. It will include targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in our growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. This includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, at six locations to be chosen across the UK, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more, including  with the Scottish Government to support the Edinburgh-Glasgow Central Belt.

    • Strengthening existing “Industrial Strategy Zones” – in Scotland these are the Forth Green Freeport, Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, Glasgow City Region and the North East Scotland Investment Zones – with an enhanced offer of streamlined planning, better-targeted investment promotion, support for accessing concessionary finance and coordinated support on skills.

    • Delivering AI Growth Zones to attract investment in AI infrastructure in strategic locations across the UK, including Scotland, with support for planning, access to energy, and partnerships with the private sector.

    • Growing high-potential innovation ecosystems through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, with at least £30m for Scotland, building on UK-wide public R&D investment and Innovate UK’s joint action plans with devolved governments.

    • Identifying and securing the right financing for investment projects in Scotland with the National Wealth Fund, working with the Scottish National Investment Bank.  

    • Using a British Business Bank Cluster Champion in Glasgow City Region, with deep expertise and local knowledge, to coordinate investment-readiness programmes, strengthen financial networks, and connect high-potential firms to investors.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.

    Dame Clare Barclay DBE, Chair of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council and President of Enterprise & Industry EMEA at Microsoft said:

    I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out a clear plan to back the UK’s growth driving sectors. It is particularly positive to see the strong focus on skills in areas such as engineering, technology and defence. Commitments such as £187 million for the TechFirst programme will ensure the UK has the skills it needs to support our growth industries and seize transformative opportunities like AI.

    Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive, CBI said:

    Today’s Industrial Strategy announcement is a significant leap forward in the partnership between government and business that sets us on the path to our shared goal of raising living standards across the country.  

    It sends an unambiguous, positive signal about the nation’s global calling card as well as the direction of travel for the wider economy for the next decade and beyond.

    The CBI has long been advocating for a comprehensive industrial strategy, based on the UK’s USP – the sectors and markets where we can compete to win on the global stage.

    More competitive energy prices, fast-tracked planning decisions and backing innovation will provide a bedrock for growth. But the global race to attract investment will require a laser-like and unwavering focus on the UK’s overall competitiveness. 

    Today marks the beginning of delivering this strategy in close partnership, at pace, and with a shared purpose. 

    Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO at Make UK said:

    British industry has been in desperate need for a government who understands our sector and had the strategic vision for a plan for growth. Today’s Industrial Strategy is a giant and much needed step forward taken by the Secretary of State who has seen the potential and provided the keys to help unlock it.

    Make UK has led the campaign for a new industrial strategy for many years, highlighting the three major challenges that were diminishing our competitiveness, hampering growth and frustrating productivity gains: a skills crisis, crippling energy costs and, an inability to access capital for new British innovators.

    The strategy announced today sets out plans to address all three of these structural failings. Clearly there is much to do as we move towards implementation but, this will send a message across the Country and around the world that Britain is back in business.

    Tufan Erginbilgic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said:

    The UK Government’s Industrial Strategy commitment to support our world-leading aerospace and nuclear industries shows long-term strategic foresight. Rolls-Royce’s highly differentiated technologies in gas turbines and nuclear capabilities- including SMRs and AMRs- are uniquely placed to deliver economic growth, skilled jobs and attract investment into the UK.

    Mike Hawes OBE, SMMT Chief Executive said:

    The publication of an Industrial Strategy – one with automotive at its heart – is the policy framework the sector has long-sought and Government has now addressed. Such a strategy – long-term, aligned to a trade strategy and supported by all of Government – is the basis on which the UK automotive sector can regain its global competitiveness. Making the UK the best place to invest now depends on implementation, and implementation at pace, because investment decisions are being made now against a backdrop of fierce competition and geopolitical uncertainty. The number one priority must be addressing the UK’s high cost of energy, enabling the sector to invest in the technologies, the products and the people that will give the UK its competitive edge. 

    Five sector plans have been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight. Glasgow is a global force in advanced manufacturing –  home to the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District and globally competitive universities, the city region has strengths across defence, space and quantum. Edinburgh houses the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University and the Roslin Institute, which is a leading Agri-Tech research centre. 

    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Aberdeen-headquartered Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion. We are supporting Scottish clean energy industries with £200 million development funding to advance the Acorn Carbon Capture and Storage project, capitalising on expertise in the oil and gas sector around Aberdeen. Up to £185 million has been allocated to Scotland through the Clean Industry Bonus, unlocking up to £3.5 billion private sector investment in ports and high-tech components needed to build floating and fixed offshore wind farms. Aberdeen is a global energy capital boasting new investment in hydrogen, with its pioneering Energy Transition Zone repositioning the North East as a globally integrated energy cluster.  A new regional skills pilot for Aberdeen will also help ensure a strong local skills base to deliver these opportunities.

    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports. It includes a £30 million Games Growth Package to back the next generation of UK video games studios – a sector in which Scotland is world leading. Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee are centres for creative industries. The Edinburgh Festivals incubate creative talent, whilst Edinburgh Futures Institute drives innovation.

    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as quantum technologies in Scotland. Scotland is home to two of the UK’s five new Quantum Hubs, with involvement in all five. Ten of the top 30 global semiconductor companies have operations in Scotland. Scotland is also home to cutting edge AI research network and R&D infrastructure – Edinburgh Genome Biofoundry and Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre. An up to £750m investment in the UK’s largest supercomputer at the University of Edinburgh sets a marker for our ambition for further growth in digital & technologies.

    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas. Scotland’s financial services sector, second only to London, features a cutting-edge Fintech scene. Over 25% of Glasgow’s top tech firms are in financial & business services, attracting major firms such as Azets and RSM. This is anchored by a highly capable workforce, supported by a world-class skills ecosystem and universities.
       

    The Industrial Strategy will be published on GOV.UK later today.

    The Defence, Financial Services and Life Sciences sector plans will be published shortly.

    The 7,000 businesses are an indicative estimate of how many businesses could be in scope of the scheme. The full scope and eligibility of the scheme will be determined following consultation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Human Right Committee Opens One Hundred and Forty-Fourth Session

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Human Right Committee this morning opened its one hundred and forty-fourth session, during which it will examine the reports of Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Kazakhstan, Latvia, North Macedonia, Spain and Viet Nam on their implementation of the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

    In her opening remarks, Sara Hamood, Chief of the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section within the Rule of Law, Equality and Non-Discrimination Branch of the Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Representative of the Secretary-General, said this session was taking place in extremely challenging times for human rights globally. 

    Quoting the High Commissioner for Human Rights’ opening remarks at the current Human Rights Council session, she expressed concern about “spiralling conflicts”, “social tensions”, “widespread discrimination” and “attacks on the international institutions that underpin our rights, including the International Criminal Court”, as well as about funding cuts affecting the Office of the High Commissioner, the human rights mechanisms, and civil society partners.  The High Commissioner appealed for the strongest possible defence of international law and human rights, emphasising that human rights provided stability and security in troubled times and that they were guardrails on power, especially when it was unleashed in its most brutal forms.

    On 17 June, the High Commissioner presented to the Council his annual report (A/HRC/59/20), in which he stressed that the “global consensus around international norms and institutions continues to face serious threats”.  He stated that “in this troubled and turbulent context, a global coalition is needed to demonstrate an unequivocal commitment, anchored in human rights, to international order and the rule of law.”

    Last week, the Council also held interactive dialogues with Special Procedures.  The Special Rapporteur on freedom of peaceful assembly and association presented her report on the “impact of the 2023-2025 ‘super election’ cycle on the rights of peaceful assembly and association” (A/HRC59/44).  The Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression presented her report on “freedom of expression and elections in the digital age” (A/HRC/59/50). 

    Ms. Hamood said this year marked the sixtieth anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the first international human rights treaty adopted by the General Assembly on 21 December 1965. This year’s commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was dedicated to this important anniversary.  There needed to be a renewed commitment to the Convention, stronger implementation, and inclusive dialogue to advance racial justice.  A series of global events were being held to mark the occasion, including commemorations in New York and Geneva.  As part of this initiative, the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination would host a commemorative event on 4 December.

    While recent years had seen growing momentum for racial justice, a rollback on racial justice commitments was now being seen in some contexts, Ms. Hamood said.  Despite significant progress, the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination’s promise remained unfulfilled for many.  Racism and white supremacy continued to poison communities, politics, media and online platforms.  Racism was manifested in many ways, including through violations of civil and political rights.  The Human Rights Committee needed to continue its important contribution to the fight against racism; the work of the anti-racism mechanisms would prove helpful in this regard.

    Addressing the financial crisis in the human rights system, Ms. Hamood said that for treaty bodies with three annual sessions, including the Human Rights Committee, the Office of the High Commissioner would not be able to secure the funding to hold their third sessions this year.  The Office received only 73 per cent of its approved regular budget in 2025, a further decrease from the 87 per cent of its approved regular budget received in 2024.  As most of these funds were needed to cover contractual liabilities, particularly staff costs, the amount available for meetings and activities was simply inadequate. Next year also risked seeing a continuation of this trend.

    The liquidity situation was a system-wide crisis.  The United Nations Office at Geneva’s Conference Services had also faced dramatic cuts, leading it to adopt cash conservative measures that would impact the conference support provided to the human rights treaty bodies, particularly in terms of documentation, meeting time and interpretation.  It was called on to reduce official meetings and documentation by 10 per cent.

    Ms. Hamood said reductions of the allotments would impact the treaty bodies’ ability to hold dialogues with States parties and to take decisions on individual communications, resulting in further delays and backlogs.  Another area where cuts were being made was in treaty body capacity building activities, which provided valuable support for States to report to and interact with the treaty bodies.  All this caused real damage to the predictability of the reporting cycle, which was critically important to enable States, civil society organizations and right holders to engage effectively with the treaty bodies.  Ms. Hamood expressed regret that, given the overall reduction in funds and availability of support services, business as usual was no longer possible.

    She reported that the thirty-seventh annual meeting of the Chairs of the human rights treaty bodies took place in Geneva from 2 to 6 June 2025.  An overarching theme addressed in considerable depth was the United Nations liquidity crisis and how it was impacting the effective discharge of the mandates of the treaty bodies.  The Chairs also discussed how to create synergies between human rights mechanisms as well as regional mechanisms, the progress made on the alignment of their working methods and practices, and the implementation of the guidelines on the independence and impartiality of members of the human rights treaty bodies.

    Ms. Hamood said the Committee had a busy agenda ahead of it, including seven State party reviews, the consideration and adoption of 10 lists of issues prior to reporting, as well as several individual communications under the Optional Protocol.  It would also hold briefings with various stakeholders, each of which was a vital opportunity to stem the local but also global assault on human rights and their defenders.  She closed by wishing the Committee a successful and productive session.

    Changrok Soh, Committee Chair, said the Committee was particularly interested in the commemoration of the sixtieth anniversary of the Convention against Racial Discrimination.  Racial discrimination was an issue often dealt with by the Committee, as it often manifested itself in violations of civil and political rights.  The Committee would continue to scrutinise the state of racial discrimination under its mandated activities.  The Committee took inspiration from Ms. Hamood’s statement, as next year would mark the sixtieth anniversary of the adoption of the Covenant, Mr. Soh noted.

    The Committee then adopted its agenda and programme of work for the session.

    Hélène Tigroudja, Committee Vice Chair and Chair of the working group on communications, presented the report on the group’s activities for the one hundred and fortieth session. She said that the format of the group’s work had been adjusted, with three days dedicated to discussions on communications prior to the session.  These were not enough to assess all the communications before the Committee. However, the working group had done tremendous work in a spirit of solidarity.

    Ms. Tigroudja said that, of the 21 documents submitted for consideration, it discussed 18 and adopted 16. The Committee had continued to append in a single document communications submitted against the same State party and concerning the same claims.  This enabled the group to review a total of 26 communications, covering, inter alia, participation in public affairs, the right to self-determination, freedom of expression in political and electoral processes, political representation of indigenous peoples, racial discrimination, arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment in detention, and non-refoulement.  The communications examined were submitted between 2015 and 2023 and concerned 13 States parties covering different continents and regions.

    Following its discussions, and pending the finalisation of its work this week, the working group submitted to the plenary 10 communications with a finding of inadmissibility and six communications with a finding of violation of the rights of the Covenant, Ms. Tigroudja reported.  Five communications were still to be examined this week.  She thanked all those who had worked hard to facilitate the holding of the condensed working group, including the petitions unit, which prepared draft decisions.

    Preparation of draft decisions in advance of plenary meetings was an absolute necessity, and one of the fundamental tasks entrusted to the Committee by States through the Optional Protocol, Ms. Tigroudja said.  Individual communications were an important part of the Committee’s raison d’être. A session without draft decisions previously discussed, reviewed and finalised in working groups and in person would lead to a decrease in the quality and effectiveness of the Committee’s work, and moreover a denial of justice for victims seeking to denounce violations of their rights, she concluded.

    A Committee Expert thanked the working group for its work, and expressed concern about the financial situation, which impeded the holding of pre-sessional working groups, and had caused the cancellation of the third session of the Committee.  She thanked all Committee members for their efforts to maintain the Committee’s work in these difficult circumstances.

    The working group’s report was adopted.

    The Human Rights Committee’s one hundred and forty-fourth session is being held from 23 June to 17 July 2025.  All the documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 June, to begin its consideration of the third periodic report of Kazakhstan (CCPR/C/KAZ/3).

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

     

    CCPR25.009E

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales and Qatar Airways sign agreement regarding the latest IFE Technologies and dedicated local Service Hub to support airline’s strategic growth plan

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales and Qatar Airways sign agreement regarding the latest IFE Technologies and dedicated local Service Hub to support airline’s strategic growth plan

    @Thales

    Thales, a global technology leader in the defence, aerospace, cybersecurity and digital solutions markets, and Qatar Airways, a multiple award-winning airline recently voted the ‘World’s Best Airline’ by Skytrax in 2025, have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to support Qatar Airways’ strategic fleet growth plan announced last month. This agreement sets the course for future inflight entertainment (IFE) innovations to support Qatar Airways’ digital transformation journey, giving the airline access to the most innovative technologies.

    In addition, this MoA covers the opportunities for development of a dedicated IFE service and maintenance center based in Doha, Qatar. The mission of this local Thales facility is to provide rapid access to services such as repair, spare distribution, technical assistance and turnkey maintenance for the full range of Thales IFE products on Qatar’s growing new fleet. The state-of-the-art facility will be designed to ensure the highest standards of operational efficiency.

    The purpose of this MoA is to support Qatar Airways’ growth and the expansion of its new fleet. It builds on a strong and long-standing relationship between the two companies. Over the years, Thales has been Qatar Airways’ trusted IFE provider for several aircraft platforms, including their Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, and Airbus A350 and A380 aircraft. This partnership was recently expanded to include Qatar Airways’ new A321 NX fleet, which will be equipped with Thales’ award-winning FlytEDGE cloud-native IFE solution.

    In alignment with Qatar Vision 2030, this partnership will help drive industry-leading innovations and contribute to the growth of the local aerospace and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) ecosystem by bringing high-skilled jobs to the country.

    Qatar Airways Chief MRO Officer, Eng. Ali Al Saadi said: “We are pleased to witness the continued advancement of our collaboration with Thales. As we strive to maintain the highest standards in aviation technology and operational excellence, it is imperative that we remain at the forefront of innovation. Our partnership with Thales reinforces this ambition and supports our ongoing commitment to delivering industry-leading solutions.”

    Yannick Assouad, Executive Vice-President, Avionics, Thales said “We are pleased to grow our partnership with Qatar Airways. This MOA highlights, once again, our mutual dedication to innovative technologies and the highest standards of operational excellence. It paves the way for a local service hub and growing expertise in Doha, bolstering the airline’s future growth ambitions.”

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Trendwatching: Radical Innovations in Creative Industries and Creativity

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Rapid technological development, adaptation of business processes to new economic realities and changing audience demands require creative industry specialists to be aware of current trends and be flexible when implementing projects. In April – May 2025 Institute for the Development of Creative Industries (IRKI) Faculty of Creative Industries HSE University conducted a study of trends in the creative industries.

    The study surveyed over 300 leading experts representing various creative industries. The experts were asked to predict key trends, radical innovations and developments that will appear in the creative industries and the creative sphere in the next three years.

    How exactly will the creative economy change under the influence of new technologies and trends? The survey results allow us to clearly define the main directions of this transformation.

    Technological trends in creative industries:

    the active implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in all creative industries – from generating content in advertising to helping composers create music;

    Neurotechnologies and wearable devices that allow reading body metrics and creating new forms of interaction are becoming key to the development of interactive media and music; development of cognitive neuroadapted wearable predictive models;

    Metaverses, mixed and augmented reality (AR/MR) are used as tools for integrating brands into digital spaces; integrating creative projects with IoT (Internet of Things).

    Changes in approaches to creativity:

    transition from template solutions to experimental approaches;

    Personalization and interactivity are becoming the standard, from customized experiences at events to deep personalization of content in advertising;

    automation of routine processes frees up more time for creativity;

    Gamification is becoming the standard for project implementation.

    Financial assessment of creative results:

    data and metrics are used for the financial evaluation of creative results, big data allows for a fair assessment and determination of the cost of a product based on its usefulness to the end consumer, which will allow for setting an equilibrium price for creative products (for example, reading audience reactions in interactive media);

    The marketplace market is transforming creativity by setting new rules for pricing and distributing creative products.

    Education and Science:

    convergence of different sciences and representation of interdisciplinary tools;

    the emergence of new Practice as Research formats;

    further convergence of science, art and education based on the innovative principles of open science;

    digitalization of science and the development of the format of electronic scientific journals create new formats for the dissemination of knowledge: the formation of creative digital platforms and the creation of a repository of high-quality metadata;

    dissemination of scientific knowledge on Open Access platforms;

    the emergence of neural network pedagogical simulacra.

    Social and cultural changes:

    Segmenting audiences into smaller communities requires more targeted creative strategies;

    the elitism of live events (concerts, exhibitions) is combined with the development of community and user-generated content (UGC);

    increasing emphasis on the individual experience of the participant/viewer, developing event interactivity.

    “An important place in our “HSE Journal of Art and Design“is engaged in the study of the latest theories in the field of art and design practices. In the coming years, new formats of Practice as Research, when practicing artists come to science, will determine innovative publishing strategies for art and design magazines,” says Irina Sakhno, professor Design schools HSE University Faculty of Arts and Design, Editor-in-Chief of the HSE University Journal of Art

    “Artificial intelligence will become an assistant in performing routine tasks, which will give more time for creativity. In the fashion industry, AI will be actively used in work on collection campaigns,” comments Elena Ermakovishna, head of the HSE CREATIVE HUB and teacher at the School of Design, producer of cultural events, art critic, designer.

    “In music, there is the elitism of live concerts and a focus on the artist’s work with the development of a community of like-minded people, a model of recursive mythologization of the narratives of the artist’s musical creativity with the construction of additional branches of transmedia based on fan fiction and UGC (user-generated content),” explains Evgenia Evpak, composer, historian of musical innovation, and researcher of the music industry.

    “Storytelling will become the basis of advertising,” comments Alexander Baru, a teacher of design thinking and marketing at the HSE School of Design.

    Experts believe that creative industries are in for a radical transformation under the influence of new technologies. This will require flexibility from professionals and institutions and a revision of traditional business models.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Curiosity Blog, Sols 4577-4579: Watch the Skies

    Source: NASA

    Written by Deborah Padgett, OPGS Task Lead at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
    Earth planning date: Friday, June 20, 2025
    During the plan covering Sols 4575-4576, Curiosity continued our investigation of mysterious boxwork structures on the shoulders of Mount Sharp. After a successful 56-meter drive (about 184 feet), Curiosity is now parked in a trough cutting through a highly fractured region covered by linear features thought to be evidence of groundwater flow in the distant past of Mars. With all six wheels firmly planted on solid ground, our rover is ready for contact science! Unfortunately, a repeat of the frost-detection experiment expected for the weekend plan is postponed for a few days due to a well-understood ChemCam issue. In the meantime, our atmospheric investigations have a chance to shine, as they received additional time to observe the Martian sky.
    In the early afternoon of Sol 4577, Curiosity’s navigation cameras will take a movie of the upper reaches of Aeolis Mons (Mount Sharp), hoping to see moving cloud shadows. This observation enables the team to calculate the altitude of clouds drifting over the peak. Next, Navcam will point straight up, to image cloud motion at the zenith and determine wind direction at their altitude. Mastcam will then do a series of small mosaics to study the rover workspace and features of the trough that Curiosity has entered. First is a 6×4 stereo mosaic of the workspace and the contact science targets “Copacabana” and “Copiapo.” The first target is a representative sample of the trough bedrock, and its name celebrates a town in Bolivia located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The second target is a section of lighter-toned material, which may be associated with stripes or “veins” filling the many crosscutting fractures in the local stones. These are the deposits potentially left by groundwater intrusion long ago. The name “Copiapo” honors a silver mining city in the extremely dry Atacama desert of northern Chile. A second 6×3 Mastcam stereo mosaic will look at active cracks in the trough. Two additional 5×1 Mastcam stereo mosaics target “Ardamarca,” a ridge parallel to the trough walls, and a cliff exposing layers of rock at the base of “Mishe Mokwa” butte. At our current location, all the Curiosity target names are taken from the Uyuni geologic quadrangle named after the otherworldly lake bed and ephemeral lake high on the Bolivian altiplano, but the Mishe Mokwa butte is back in the Altadena quad, named for a popular hiking trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. After this lengthy science block, Curiosity will deploy its arm, brush the dust from Copacabana with the DRT, then image both it and Copiapo with the MAHLI microscopic imager. Overnight, APXS will determine the composition of these two targets. 
    Early in the morning of Sol 4578, Mastcam will take large 27×5 and 18×3 stereo mosaics of different parts of the trough, using morning light to highlight the terrain shadows. Later in the day, Navcam will do a 360 sky survey, determining phase function across the entire sky. A 25-meter drive (about 82 feet) will follow, and the post-drive imaging includes both a 360-degree Navcam panorama of our new location and an image of the ground under the rover with MARDI in the evening twilight. The next sol is all atmospheric science, with an extensive set of afternoon suprahorizon movies and a dust-devil survey for Navcam, as well as a Mastcam dust opacity observation. The final set of observations in this plan happens on the morning of Sol 4580 with more Navcam suprahorizon and zenith movies to observe clouds, a Navcam dust opacity measurement across Gale Crater, and a last Mastcam tau. On Monday, we expect to plan another drive and hope to return to the frost-detection experiment soon as we explore the boxwork canyons of Mars.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Curiosity Blog, Sols 4575-4576: Perfect Parking Spot

    Source: NASA

    Written by Lucy Thompson, APXS Collaborator and Senior Research Scientist at the University of New Brunswick
    Earth planning date: Wednesday, June 18,  2025
    Not only did our drive execute perfectly, Curiosity ended up in one of the safest, most stable parking spots of the whole mission. We often come into the start of planning hoping that all the wheels are safely on the ground, but the terrain on Mars is not always very cooperative. As the APXS strategic planner I was really hoping that the rover was stable enough to unstow the arm and place APXS on a rock — which it was! We are acquiring APXS and ChemCam compositional analyses and accompanying Mastcam and MAHLI imaging of a brushed, flat, typical bedrock target, “Tarija.” This allows us to track the chemistry of the bedrock that hosts the potential boxwork features that we are driving towards. 
    As well as composition, we continue to image the terrain around us to better understand the local and regional context. Mastcam will acquire mosaics of some linear ridges off to the north of our current location, as well as of a potential fracture fill just out in front of our current parking spot, “Laguna del Bayo.” ChemCam will image part of an interesting outcrop (“Mishe Mokwa”) that we have already observed (see the image associated with this blog).
    Thanks to the relatively benign terrain, the engineers have planned a 54-meter drive (about 177 feet) to our next location. After that drive (hopefully) executes successfully, we have a series of untargeted science observations. MARDI will image the terrain beneath the wheels and ChemCam will pick a rock target autonomously from our new workspace and analyze its chemistry. 
    To track atmospheric and environmental fluctuations, we are acquiring a Mastcam tau to measure dust in the sky as well as a Navcam large dust-devil survey and suprahorizon movie. The plan is rounded, as always, with standard DAN, REMS, and RAD activities.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Allstate survey: Nearly one third of active social media users may potentially risk a home break-in by posting online before or during a vacation trip

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MARKHAM, Ontario, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Almost one third (32 per cent) of Canadian respondents to a survey that say they are active on social media post about their plans before or while traveling, a figure that rises to 51 per cent among those aged 18 to 34. Posting that beach vacation selfie while away could be putting the safety of their property at risk for theft because it also shares that their home is empty. The survey was conducted by Léger on behalf of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada (‘Allstate’) to explore how Canadians choose to share details about their vacation on social media before and during travel.

    Respondents to the survey reveal that 68 per cent of Canadian social media users plan to leave home for at least a few days this summer, with the highest rate among Gen Z and Millennials at 74 per cent and the lowest among those aged 55 and older. While 35 per cent of those staying within their province say they plan to post about their trip on social media, this proportion rises to 45 per cent among those planning to leave their province, and peaks at 51 per cent among travellers with international plans.

    Specifically, 9 per cent post before their trip to share their plans and 28 per cent post during the trip to show they are travelling. Young adults aged 18–34 are the most likely to publish content on social media during their vacation (39 per cent). Parents are more inclined to share (37 per cent) compared to those without children (30 per cent).

    In contrast, a majority (62 per cent) say their main concern is protecting their home from theft while they’re away. This priority is even stronger among people aged 55 and over — 69 per cent choose not to post before or during their vacation. However, 15 per cent of respondents say sharing on social media is more of a priority than keeping their home safe from a break-in.

    Allstate has launched a public education campaign about the risks of sharing vacation travel plans online and how Canadians can better protect their homes.

    Allstate Claims Data Shows August is a Target Month for Home Theft
    Analysis of Allstate’s in-house claims data over the last ten years reveals that property theft rises slightly over the summer, with August reaching a peak. Overall, the months of July through November are the busiest time for theft, making summer a critical period for home safety. As well, the claims data reveals Fridays rank highest for incidents, followed by Thursday, regardless of time of year.

    “While technology like smart cameras and alarm systems may offer peace of mind, oversharing on social media can put travellers’ homes and valuables at risk. I encourage Canadians to keep this in mind before sharing their travel plans and adventures online,” says Odel Laing, Agency Manager at Allstate Canada. “This doesn’t mean keeping all the excitement to yourself, but rather share the photos of your vacation when you return.”

    Allstate Encourages to Travel Smart this Summer

    Odel offers some advice that may help Canadians protect their homes from theft if they are planning on travelling this summer.

    • As a general rule, year-round, use your phone’s privacy settings to remove geolocation data from digital pictures and avoid sharing images of your street address or home number.
    • Before a trip, avoid posting countdowns. If the itch to share online is too great, create a smaller trusted chat group to keep those closest to you informed of your plans.
    • Setting social media accounts to “private” rather than public allows more control over who sees your content. Even then, keep dates and other travel plans vague.
    • Delay sharing details about your vacation adventure online until your return.
    • Discuss this approach with all household members, so they take the same precautions.
    • Review your home insurance policy with your insurance professional to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs.

    For more travel-related online safety advice, go to the GOOD HANDS® blog at blog.allstate.ca/safe-social-media-travel/.

    Léger Poll Methodology
    Allstate commissioned Léger to conduct a study among Canadians active on social media to better understand their online behaviour before, during and after their vacations and assess if they are in line with their level of concern towards home safety. In order to reach survey objectives, an online survey was conducted with 1,603 Canadians, aged 18 and over, who could express themselves in English or French, from April 17 to 20, 2025. It should be noted that due to the non-probabilistic nature of the sample (associated with any web survey), the calculation of the margin of error does not apply. For comparative purposes, a probabilistic sample of 1,603 respondents via web panel (including 1,352 respondents active on social media) would have a global margin of error of ± 2.45% 19 times out of 20. The margin of error would, however, increase for subgroups.

    About Allstate Insurance Company of Canada
    Allstate Insurance Company of Canada is a leading home and auto insurer focused on providing its customers prevention and protection products and services for every stage of life. Serving Canadians since 1953, Allstate strives to reassure both customers and employees with its “You’re in Good Hands®” promise. Allstate is committed to making a positive difference in the communities in which it operates through partnerships with charitable organizations, employee giving and volunteerism. To learn more, visit www.allstate.ca. For safety tips and advice, visit www.goodhandsadvice.ca

    For more information, please contact:
    Stephanie More
    Agnostic on behalf of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada
    416-912-5341
    smore@thinkagnostic.com 

    Maude Gauthier
    Capital-Image on behalf of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada
    514-915-9469
    mgauthier@capital-image.com

    Cody Gillen
    Public Relations Specialist
    905-475-4536
    cgillen@allstate.ca

    The MIL Network