NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI: CoinShares Launches SEI ETP with Zero Management Fees and 2% Staking Yield

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Europe’s leading digital asset manager delivers institutional access to SEI, a breakthrough layer 1 blockchain with staking rewards

    29 July 2025 | SAINT HELIER, Jersey | CoinShares International Limited (“CoinShares” or “the Group”) (Nasdaq Stockholm: CS; US OTCQX: CNSRF), the European leading investment company specialising in digital assets with over $9 billion in assets under management, today launched the CoinShares Physical Staked SEI (Ticker: CSEI, ISIN: GB00BSLNZT73) – the world’s first zero fee exchange-traded product offering regulated exposure to SEI’s high-performance blockchain infrastructure.

    This launch combines CoinShares’ proven track record of delivering institutional-grade digital asset innovations with SEI’s layer 1 technology engineered to power the next generation of decentralized applications.

    Strategic Timing Meets Market Demand

    As European institutional appetite for diversified blockchain exposure accelerates, CoinShares has identified SEI as a standout performer in the competitive layer 1 landscape. SEI is designed to combine scalability, speed, and developer simplicity into one high-performance chain, providing industry leading infrastructure for digital asset trading with institutional-grade performance.

    “We don’t just follow trends – we identify the crypto technologies that will define the future of digital finance. SEI represents exactly what institutional investors have been waiting for: a blockchain that speaks their language of performance, reliability, and scale, backed by top-tier VCs and leading platforms.” commented Jean-Marie Mognetti, CEO and Co-Founder of CoinShares

    Three Critical Market Problems Solved

    The launch addresses three critical market gaps:

    • Institutional Access Barrier: Previously, gaining exposure to SEI required navigating complex custody and operational challenges. The CoinShares Physical SEI ETP eliminates these friction points entirely.
    • Yield Generation: In today’s competitive investment landscape, the ETP’s integrated staking mechanism delivers 2% additional returns to investors automatically – with zero management fees.
    • Regulatory Certainty: Available on SIX exchange with full regulatory compliance.

    The Perfect Partnership

    This launch represents the strategic alignment of two institution-focused organisations. CoinShares’ rigorous due diligence process identified SEI as a rare combination of technological superiority and institutional readiness.

    “This launch reinforces CoinShares’ position as the institutional gateway to digital asset innovation. We’re not just offering exposure to SEI – we’re delivering institutional-grade access to the future of high-performance blockchain infrastructure, with unique cost-effectiveness.” – Jean-Marie Mognetti, CEO and Co-Founder of CoinShares

    Jay Jog, Co-Founder of Sei Labs, commented, “We’re honored that CoinShares has chosen to launch the world’s first SEI ETP. CoinShares has been instrumental in bridging the gap between institutional capital and crypto innovation, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to delivering institutional-grade blockchain infrastructure. The Sei network is uniquely positioned to meet the performance demands of sophisticated financial markets, and through CoinShares’ proven platform, institutional investors can now access this next-generation infrastructure with the reliability and regulatory certainty they require.”

    Product Highlights

    • Zero Management Fees: Management fee reduced to 0 to maximize investor returns
    • 2% Staking Yield: Automatic yield generation without operational complexity
    • Physically Backed: Direct 1:1 exposure to underlying SEI tokens
    • Exchange Trading: Trade in USD on SIX exchange like traditional securities
    • European Access: Passported across CoinShares Physical existing market footprint

    About CoinShares

    CoinShares is a leading global digital asset manager that delivers a broad range of financial services across investment management, trading, and securities to a wide array of clients that include corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. Founded in 2013, the firm is headquartered in Jersey, with offices in France, Stockholm, the UK, and the US. CoinShares is regulated in Jersey by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, in France by the Autorité des marchés financiers, and in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Futures Association and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. CoinShares is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker CS and the OTCQX under the ticker CNSRF.

    For more information on CoinShares, please visit: https://coinshares.com
    Company | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com
    Investor Relations | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com

    About SEI

    Sei is the fastest Layer 1 blockchain, Providing high performance rails for digital asset markets. Sei launched its mainnet in 2023, and has since processed billions of transactions across more than 35 million wallets. Currently on Devnet, Sei’s V3 Giga update will make Sei 50x more performant than any existing EVM chain, serving as a groundbreaking new scaling approach for the Ethereum ecosystem. The team is backed by Multicoin, Jump, Coinbase Ventures, and many more.

    The CoinShares Physical SEI ETP (CSEI) begins trading on SIX exchange starting 28/7/2025 in USD, with the product passported across the same European markets as CoinShares’ existing CSDS product suite, providing broad institutional and retail access.

    PRESS CONTACT

    CoinShares
    Benoît Pellevoizin
    bpellevoizin@coinshares.com

    M Group Strategic Communications
    Peter Padovano
    coinshares@mgroupsc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SAVYINT Named First Official Technology Partner for IDEX’s Next-Gen Access Cards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IDEX Biometrics ASA today announced its first official technology partner agreement with Savyint Group, a leading digital identity and trust services provider in Vietnam. This strategic agreement will bring IDEX’s innovative biometric FIDO Access cards to market across Vietnam and Southeast Asia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commercial expansion and demonstrating market acceptance for IDEX’s new product line in ID/Access.

    The agreement addresses the rapidly growing demand for secure digital authentication solutions in Southeast Asia, where organizations across finance, government, enterprise, healthcare, and education sectors are increasingly adopting passwordless authentication and zero-trust security frameworks.

    The global digital identity solutions market is experiencing explosive growth, projected to grow from $43.07 billion in 2025 to $153.63 billion by 2032, driven by escalating cybersecurity threats and regulatory compliance requirements. The FIDO authentication market specifically is expanding at an exceptional 24.4% CAGR, reaching an expected $5.72 billion by 2029, as organizations rapidly adopt passwordless authentication to combat rising phishing attacks and credential theft. Southeast Asia represents a particularly dynamic opportunity, with the region’s digital economy already reaching $295 billion in 2024 and on track to become a $1 trillion market by 2030, while Asia Pacific is anticipated to register the fastest growth rate in digital identity solutions globally.

    The IDEX Total Access card represents a breakthrough in secure authentication technology, combining the convenience of traditional access cards with advanced fingerprint biometric authentication. These FIDO-certified cards eliminate the need for passwords while providing the highest levels of security through on-card biometric matching. Users simply place their finger on the card’s integrated sensor for instant, secure authentication to access digital services, making it ideal for enterprise access control, secure login applications, and digital identity verification across multiple platforms.

    “Digital trust represents the confidence users place in people, technology, and processes to create a secure digital ecosystem,” said Mr. Steve Hoang – CTO & Chairman at Savyint Group. “IDEX’s biometric FIDO Access cards enable us to significantly strengthen and expand our identity solutions portfolio, providing the robust authentication foundation that transparent and secure digital services require.”

    “Savyint Group has established itself as a trailblazer in digital identity and trust services throughout Vietnam and APAC, with an impressive customer base spanning finance, government, enterprise, healthcare, and education,” said Anders Storbråten, CEO of IDEX Biometrics. “Their proven expertise in customer authentication and commitment to building comprehensive digital trust ecosystems makes them an ideal partner for introducing our biometric access technology to this dynamic market.”

    This agreement represents a crucial step in building IDEX’s distributorship channel strategy, providing a proven go-to-market pathway for the company’s Total Access cards in the high-growth Southeast Asian region. The agreement positions both companies to capitalize on the accelerating shift toward biometric authentication solutions while establishing a foundation for broader regional expansion.

    About SAVYINT

    Savyint is an IT security company based in Sydney, Australia with an R&D center in Hanoi and international offices in Singapore, Dubai, Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), and Sofia (Bulgaria).

    With over 20 years of experience, Savyint is among the world’s leading IT companies, providing software platforms, system solutions, and services for digital transformation. Its expertise includes open banking, information security, and FinTech, particularly in the Finance & Banking, FSI, Government, Manufacturing, Telecommunications, Healthcare, Education, and Media sectors.

    Website: https://savyint.com/

    About IDEX Biometrics

    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

    For further information, please contact:

    Anders Storbråten, CEO and CFO, Tel: +47 416 38 582

    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

    About this notice:

    This notice was issued by Kjell-Arne Besseberg, COO, on July 29, 2025 at 08:00 CEST on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Plastic Greenpeace report exposes petrochemical giants’ campaign to derail Global Plastics Treaty A report released today by Greenpeace UK reveals how the Global Plastics Treaty is under threat from some of the world’s largest petrochemical companies who have been systematically lobbying against… by Alexandra Sedgwick July 29, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    A report released today by Greenpeace UK reveals how the Global Plastics Treaty is under threat from some of the world’s largest petrochemical companies who have been systematically lobbying against cuts to plastic production while generating massive profits from their growing plastics business. The report reveals that since the treaty talks began in November 2022, seven companies alone have produced enough plastic to fill 6.3 million rubbish trucks – equivalent to five and a half trucks every minute. 

    The report – ‘Plastics, Profits and Power: How petrochemical companies are derailing the Global Plastics Treaty’ draws on data obtained from industry sources. It finds that that since the start of the treaty process, Dow, ExxonMobil, BASF, Chevron Phillips, Shell, SABIC and INEOS have ramped up their plastic production capacity by 1.4 million tonnes and sent a combined total of 70 lobbyists to negotiations, where they have also been represented by powerful industry front groups.  

    Dow alone has sent at least 21 lobbyists to negotiations whilst earning an estimated £3.4 billion from plastics. The report also states that INEOS, the UK’s largest plastics producer, has raised production capacity by more than 20% and is investing £3.5 billion in Project ONE, set to become Europe’s biggest plastics plant in Antwerp, Belgium.

    The Greenpeace UK report comes just days before governments meet in Geneva, Switzerland, in the final round of treaty talks. The report reveals the tactics used by lobbyists to dominate negotiations, influence delegates, and block progress. It also highlights the lobbying by powerful trade associations at the talks, pushing industry-friendly positions while shielding corporate members from scrutiny.

    Anna Diski, the report’s author and Senior Plastics Campaigner with Greenpeace UK, said:

    “We all want to see a strong Global Plastics Treaty that turns the tide on plastic pollution. Our research shows that those with the most to lose from meaningful regulation are working hardest to obstruct it. We can’t allow the corporations who profit from plastic pollution to write the rules or we’ll end up with a toothless Treaty. It’s time to ban lobbyists from the Talks and for UN Member States to stand firm and support a strong Treaty.”

    According to CIEL, 220 fossil fuels lobbyists attended the fifth round of treaty negotiations in 2024 held in Busan, South Korea which ended without agreement. This made lobbyists the single largest delegation at the talks – more than the EU and its member states combined, outnumbering the delegates from the Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty by three to one. 

    Greenpeace is calling for at least a 75% reduction in plastic production by 2040 and is demanding that a strong conflict of interest policy be embedded in the treaty to prevent undue influence; negotiations must also prioritise those most affected by the plastics crisis, with space guaranteed for independent scientists, Indigenous Peoples, frontline communities and civil society groups, all of whom should all be able to play a role in shaping and implementing the treaty.  

    Ends.

    Contact:

    Greenpeace UK Press Office – press.uk@greenpeace.org or +44 7377 730878 / +44 20 7865 8255

    The report is available here 

    A photo gallery of images associated with the report is available in the Greenpeace Media Library

    Notes: 

    The INC5.2 summit to agree a Global Plastics Treaty will run from 5-14 August 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. Greenpeace will be present with an international delegation of 30 people representing Africa, Southeast and East Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Europe, Canada, Colombia and the US.  The delegation will use its extensive policy and legal experience and government relationships to push for greater ambition in the treaty process, particularly on the critical issue of delivering legally binding cuts to plastic production. 

    Greenpeace UK’s analysis is based on estimated global production figures for polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) for November/December 2022, 2023 and 2024 financial years, for Dow, ExxonMobil, BASF, Chevron, Shell, SABIC and INEOS, produced by Market Research Future (data available on request). This estimate covers two of the world’s most widely-used polymers, commonly found in packaging and consumer goods. It excludes other major plastic types such as PET and polystyrene, and excludes 2025 production data even as treaty talks continue into this year. As such, the final figure is presented as an underestimate of total plastic production during this time. To calculate the plastic volume in rubbish truck equivalents, Greenpeace UK used the standard capacity of a UK refuse truck, which holds approximately 12 metric tonnes of plastic waste.

    All of the companies mentioned in this report were given the opportunity to reply to the findings, none responded.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayors and Ministers back British manufacturers and greener buses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Mayors and Ministers back British manufacturers and greener buses

    Government ministers and metro mayors commit to greener transport and greater job opportunities across the regions.

    • Transport Secretary, the Local Transport Minister, and Metro Mayors come together for UK bus manufacturing stocktake, promising to support highly skilled jobs that deliver the Plan for Change.
    • plans advanced to ensure a 10-year pipeline of zero-emission bus orders, with around 60% of zero-emission buses funded by government currently being built by UK-based manufacturers.
    • comes as the Bus Services Bill progresses through Parliament, with the government continuing to drive growth in the industries of the future and put passengers back at the heart of services

    Greener journeys, skilled jobs and stronger UK manufacturing were all on the agenda today (28 July 2025), as government ministers and metro mayors came together in Westminster to commit to greener transport and greater job opportunities across the regions.

    The fifth meeting of the UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel was chaired by the Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, and Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood, with wider attendance from mayors including David Skaith (York and North Yorkshire), Richard Parker (West Midlands), and Steve Rotheram (Liverpool), alongside Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill and the Scottish Government’s Transport Minister, Fiona Hyslop.

    The session focussed on the future pipeline of zero-emission bus orders, in order to give UK manufacturers the long-term certainty needed to invest and grow.

    The panel also committed to ensuring that new zero emission buses bring real social benefits to the communities they serve, and work to support local employment, sustainability, and inclusivity.

    Attendees also committed to ensuring that every pound of public money spent on zero emission buses provides the greatest social benefits for communities and the economy.

    The panel’s inaugural meeting took place in Sheffield earlier this year, and set out to ensure that the UK remains a leader in bus building while helping local authorities to deliver their transport ambitions.

    The government is working closely with local authorities to ensure new bus orders continue to support the UK supply chain and deliver cleaner, more reliable transport for passengers. Currently, around 60% of zero-emission buses funded through the government’s ZEBRA (Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas) programmes are being built by UK-based manufacturers, and the panel is committed to supporting manufacturers as they undertake these new contracts, to ensure that they support regional growth and support opportunities that deliver the Plan for Change.

    Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said:

    It was great to bring mayors together today for the fifth meeting of the bus manufacturing expert panel, where we committed to building a strong pipeline of future zero-emission bus orders.

    By mapping out future demand, we’re giving industry the certainty they need to grow – supporting jobs, delivering better buses for passengers, and accelerating our journey towards a cleaner, greener transport system, while delivering our Plan for Change.

    Earlier this year, the Government announced nearly £38 million to deliver 319 new zero emission buses across 12 cities in England by spring 2027, with each pound of funding matched by at least £3 of private investment. 

    Among the biggest beneficiaries were:

    • Nottinghamshire County Council, who are benefitting from £2.3 million to launch 42 new electric buses
    • Hull City Council, where £3.9 million has been allocated to provide 42 vehicles
    • West of England Combined Authority, who are receiving nearly £20 million for 160 buses

    The UK government has also recently allocated a further £28 million to deliver new zero emission buses in Sheffield and Bradford, to improve air quality on key city centre routes.

    The push for cleaner bus travel is also supported by the Bus Services Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. The Bill will give local authorities more control over how services are planned and delivered, while introducing new powers to end the use of new diesel buses in England from no earlier than 2030.

    Jason Prince, Director, Urban Transport Group, said:

    Investing in buses, especially greener, cleaner buses is good for our transport systems, our health and the economy. Government, operators and our members, working together through the manufacturing panel to unlock the full potential of greener buses will help realise these benefits for passengers and their local communities.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Swedish Prime Minister and Chinese Vice Premier Agree to Deepen Cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    STOCKHOLM, July 29 (Xinhua) — Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met here on Monday, agreeing to deepen cooperation and support free trade.

    He Lifeng noted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Sweden, on which occasion Chinese President Xi Jinping and Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf exchanged congratulatory messages in May.

    Under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, China-Swedish cooperation continues to expand in various fields, with increasingly closer economic and trade ties and broad prospects for future development, said the vice premier.

    He Lifeng said China is willing to work with Sweden to strengthen communication and deepen cooperation on the basis of mutual respect, mutual trust, equality and mutual benefit. The two sides should jointly uphold multilateralism and free trade, and promote the healthy and sustainable development of bilateral relations, he added.

    The Chinese official also, at the request of the Swedish side, informed it about the latest round of Chinese-American trade and economic negotiations.

    U. Kristersson noted that Sweden attaches great importance to developing cooperation with China and firmly supports free trade and economic globalization. His country intends to use the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to deepen practical cooperation in many areas in order to achieve more positive results in Swedish-Chinese relations. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor pledges to unlock growth in Cornwall

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Chancellor pledges to unlock growth in Cornwall

    Rachel Reeves confirms up to 1,300 jobs could be created following a £28.6 million National Wealth Fund investment to support the reopening of South Crofty Tin mine.

    • Investment will help cement Cornwall’s role in supplying a nationally critical material, supporting the government’s Industrial Strategy to boost growth in priority industries as part of the Plan for Change.

    • Proposals to cut licensing red tape announced yesterday will breathe life into Cornwall’s pubs, clubs, restaurants, and cafes with more alfresco dining and longer opening hours on offer for residents and tourists, as part of the Small Business Plan.

    • Chancellor’s pledge to renew Cornwall follows the Spending Review which delivered record investment across the UK, creating jobs and delivering economic growth that puts money in people’s pockets.

    Rachel Reeves has pledged to unlock growth in Cornwall through investment, slashing growth-stunting red tape, and creating good jobs that will put more money in Cornish people’s pockets.

    While touring Cornish Metals in Redruth this week, the Chancellor confirmed that a £28.6 million investment delivered by the National Wealth Fund to help finance the re-opening of the South Crofty Tin mine could create 1,300 jobs for the region.

    As well as the project itself creating over 300 jobs, it is estimated that a further 1,000 jobs will be created more widely as the company uses more local suppliers like metal fabricators and electricians and the mine itself will fuel supply chains in in the UK.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    Despite having so much potential to grow, Cornwall has been neglected by successive governments, and its families and businesses have suffered as a result.

    Like in every part of the UK, I am determined to unlock growth that creates jobs and puts more money in Cornish people’s pockets.

    Our investment to revive Cornwall’s proud tin mining industry and the thousands of jobs it will create for years to come is one way we are renewing the county, and there is more to come in our Plan for Change.

    This supports the government’s Industrial Strategy to boost growth in the UK’s high-growth industries, including clean energy, as tin is a critical material used in a wide range of electronic products manufactured by the sector.

    As demand for its use in solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles, semi-conductors, and energy storage increases as Britain transforms into a clean energy superpower, Cornwall’s role in strengthening our domestic tin supply will be cemented. 

    The Chancellor pointed to this as an example of how the government will deliver renewal in Cornwall and elsewhere in the UK after delivering record investment in our security, health, and economy in the Spending Review, leading to new jobs and economic growth – the number one mission of the Plan for Change.

    Don Turvey, CEO of Cornish Metals, said:

    We are honoured to welcome the Chancellor to South Crofty and proud to showcase the significant progress we’re making as we move toward production. The UK government’s £28.6 million investment via the National Wealth Fund is a powerful vote of confidence in our project and the future of Cornwall’s mining industry.

    Tin is a critical mineral for the clean energy transition, essential to electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable infrastructure. By reviving domestic production at South Crofty, we’re not only creating over 300 direct jobs but also supporting many more across local supply chains and regional businesses.

    Our focus remains on delivering long-term, sustainable value safely, responsibly, and with deep roots in the community. We’re proud to be playing a role in bringing responsible tin mining back to Cornwall and supporting economic renewal and industrial growth in the region.

    Ian Brown, Head of Banking & Investments at the National Wealth Fund, said:

    Cornish Metals have made excellent progress as they work towards re-opening South Crofty. Our financing is designed to help them crowd further investment into the region, bringing skilled, year-round job opportunities, and driving local growth.

    Stopping off for a spot of fish and chips on the seafront, the Chancellor also met with staff at Harbour Lights fish and chip shop on Arwenack Street in Falmouth to discuss the government’s proposals to rip up arduous regulations that have blocked restaurants like theirs from growing.

    Ensuring local councils are more lenient when considering licensing applications, making it easier for pubs to serve their customers outside and for longer, and binning the outdated rule that businesses need to pay to advertise in locally printed press if applying for a license are three of ten recommendations being considered by the government so the hospitality industry in Cornwall and further afield can thrive.

    A consultation on the proposals will be launched later this year and this follows the reform of planning rules announced in the Autumn, which will further free the hospitality industry from growth-stunting regulations, fuel the economy and reduce government borrowing by £3.4 billion. This comes ahead of the publication of the Small Business Plan, which will show how the Plan for Change will rejuvenate smaller businesses and put more money in people’s pockets.

    The Chancellor also visited APCL A&P Falmouth, where she saw at first hand, how the ship repair facility supports the Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, and commercial vessels.

    The Chancellor welcomed APCL’s plans to redevelop the docks. The proposed expansion would significantly increase the port’s capacity for supporting defence, offshore, ferries and cruise vessels.

    As well as hearing about the economic benefits the plans could deliver for Cornwall, she also discussed APCL’s contribution to the deployment of floating offshore wind infrastructure as the government works to boost the country’s homegrown, clean energy supply to bring down bills for families.

    Mike Spicer, Managing Director of APCL A&P Falmouth, said:

    APCL A&P Falmouth is a centre of excellence for the Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, offshore vessels, cruise ships and ferries. The facility is also a busy working port, handling over 100,000 tonnes of product annually and welcoming 56 cruise calls this year. 

    APCL was delighted to welcome the Chancellor to our facility and demonstrate at first hand our capabilities.

    The visit also provided a platform to discuss our plans to expand our facility, which would significantly enhance the services we can offer to our defence, offshore and cruise customers and help fulfil Cornwall’s ambitious floating offshore wind agenda.

    In a separate engagement, the Chancellor met with Kensa, a Cornish-founded and headquartered manufacturer of ground source heat pumps that has manufactured and installed over 17,000 in the UK since its establishment in 1999.

    As the government has stepped up efforts to transform Britain into a clean energy superpower and support households to upgrade their heating and energy efficiency, Kensa aims to support this by expanding its operations significantly, increasing its workforce from 200 to 450 by 2030 and growing its heat pump production and installations from 2,500 a year to 25,000 a year.

    Tamsin Lishman, CEO of Kensa, said:

    Kensa sits at the heart of the government’s plans for green industrial growth, a proud Cornish manufacturer of ground source heat pumps and a nationwide installer of heat networks.

    Kensa has bold ambitions to invest and expand its workforce and operations over the next five years, increasing employment in Cornwall and the wider UK to 450 people and many hundreds more in our installation supply chains.

    I have been buoyed by the recent government announcements on the Future Homes Standard, major funding commitments for the Warm Homes Plan, and a clear plan to bolster heat pump manufacturing as part of the new Industrial Strategy. This is the policy platform we need for growth in Kensa and in Cornwall, and we look forward to working with the government to deliver it.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Theta Capital announces Legends4Legends 2025, the premier blockchain conference for institutional allocators

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AMSTERDAM, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Theta Capital Management, the blockchain venture capital fund-of-funds, is delighted to announce that the premier blockchain conference for institutional allocators, the annual Legends4Legends charity conference, will be held this year on October 16th in Amsterdam.

    Catering exclusively to institutional investors, family offices, and wealth advisors, Legends4Legends offers a full-day program featuring the world’s leading experts to help allocators navigate the rapidly evolving blockchain landscape. Attendance is free of charge for qualifying institutions, with the conference raising funds through donations in support of the Alternatives4Children charity.

    This year’s conference theme is: “Blockchain Goes Mainstream: Stablecoins & Beyond”. A decade of experimentation is giving way to real-world integration. Regulatory clarity has arrived. Institutional infrastructure is in place. And stablecoins—the breakthrough use case—are already moving trillions, serving as programmable dollars for the internet economy. This isn’t a promise. It’s already happening—and it’s just the tip of the iceberg.

    In a single day packed with keynotes, fireside chats and panels, we will explore the key developments already shaping the decade ahead. Together, these trends represent the beginning of a revolution in human and machine coordination:

    • The rise of blockchain-native financial infrastructure, with stablecoins as the backbone of global digital payments, financial access, and dollar-based liquidity
    • The convergence of AI x Crypto
    • New models for organizing physical infrastructure and global resource networks

    Legends4Legends is where signal meets perspective, giving allocators a clearer picture of the road ahead. What are the investable opportunities at the edge of these macro shifts? What risks and behaviors are emerging in a world where liquidity, intelligence, and coordination flow through open-source infrastructure? And how can long-term allocators and builders distinguish durable value from noise?

    Ruud Smets, CIO of Theta Capital, said: “Blockchain has entered the mainstream, and this is just the beginning. Legends4Legends is the one day that allocators need to separate the signal from the noise when it comes to developments in blockchain technology.”

    The event features the world’s leading crypto-native VCs, protocol founders and regulators, with a program that is fully-curated to bring traditional allocators up to speed with the latest developments.

    Early confirmed speakers include Haseeb Qureshi (Managing Partner, DragonFly), Vance Spencer (Co-Founder, Framework Ventures), Joe Marenda (Head Digital Assets, Cambridge Associates), Ben Forman (Founder, ParaFi), Jake Brukhman (Founder, CoinFund), Lasse Clausen (Founding Partner, 1kx), Michael Jordan (Co-Founder, dba), Matt Walsh (Founding Partner, Castle Island Ventures), Tarun Chitra (Co-Founder & CEO, Gauntlet), Robert Leshner (Founder, Compound Labs and Superstate), Stani Kulechov (Founder, Aave), Guy Young (Founder, Ethena Labs), with several high-profile names to follow.

    No other event brings together so many global thought leaders in blockchain, giving traditional investors intel and insight into the generational investment opportunity it provides.

    The event will take place in the EYE Film Museum in Amsterdam, and will conclude with a networking reception. The event is open to professional allocators only. Applications to attend are available via the www.legends4legends.org website.

    Legends4Legends is a charitable event, raising money for Alternatives4Children, a leading charity in the alternative investments industry.

    Every year Theta Capital publishes its “Satellite View”, a comprehensive report summing up the conference and the future of investment in blockchain technology. The report features insights and outlooks from crypto’s leading experts including many of the crypto-native venture funds in which Theta invests. The most recent report can be downloaded using this link: The Satellite View.

    About Theta Capital

    Founded in 2001, Theta Capital Management has been among the earliest and largest institutional investors globally to invest in blockchain technology, having deployed capital in the space since January 2018. Theta Capital works with over 50 deeply specialized VC partners leading to more than 1,000 venture style investments in the technology. Deep domain expertise has led to a leading position in the universe of crypto-native venture capital.

    For further information, please visit:

    http://www.thetacapital.com/

    Contact:

    ir@thetacapital.com

    About Alternatives4Children

    Alternatives4Children (A4C) is an independent charitable foundation established in 2011 in the Netherlands with the aim to involve professionals from the (Alternative) Financial industry and the conviction that, together, we can make a difference for children in need. In 2020 we registered our UK chapter and are now open to expanding in other countries.

    For Further Information please visit:

    www.alternatives4children.com

    www.legends4legends.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ransomware Surges as Attempts Spike 146% Amid Aggressive Extortion Tactics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Key Findings:

    • Ransomware attacks blocked by the Zscaler cloud rose 146%, the sharpest spike observed in the past three years.
    • Public extortion cases jumped by 70% based on data leak site analysis.
    • Data exfiltration volumes increased 92%.
    • Manufacturing, Technology, and Healthcare were the top targeted industries, and the Oil & Gas sector experienced a 935% increase in attacks.

    SAN JOSE, Calif., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zscaler, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZS), the leader in cloud security, today published its annual Zscaler ThreatLabz 2025 Ransomware Report. The report examines the latest trends shaping the ransomware threat landscape, revealing how attacks are adapting and escalating. It highlights the most targeted sectors and regions, profiles the most active ransomware families, analyzes shifting attack methodologies, and provides actionable recommendations to help organizations strengthen their defenses. ThreatLabz’s findings underscore the critical importance of organizations adopting a comprehensive Zero Trust Everywhere strategy. This approach is essential to prevent ransomware and other malicious threats from lateral movement and compromising sensitive user data, applications, and information.

    “Ransomware tactics continue to evolve, with the growing shift toward extortion over encryption as a clear example,” said Deepen Desai, EVP Cybersecurity, Zscaler. “GenAI is also increasingly becoming part of the ransomware threat actor’s playbook, enabling more targeted and efficient attacks. As threats advance, security measures must keep pace. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform empowers organizations to shrink their attack surface, identify and block initial compromise threats, prevent lateral movement, and stop data exfiltration to shut down extortion events before they happen.”

    Data Demand Fuels Steady Attack Growth
    Ransomware attacks are intensifying at an alarming rate, with attempted attacks blocked in the Zscaler cloud up 146% year-over-year. This escalation reflects a strategic shift: ransomware groups are increasingly prioritizing extortion over encryption. Accordingly, the report details a 92% increase in the total volume of exfiltrated data by 10 major ransomware groups in the past year, rising from 123 TB to 238 TB. This emphasis on data theft—and the threat of exposure—allows attackers to exert greater pressure on victims, amplifying the impact of ransomware on organizations globally.

    Industries Under Siege
    Cybercriminals continue to focus on the high-stakes environments of the Manufacturing (1,063 attacks), Technology (922), and Healthcare (672) sectors, making them the most frequently hit by ransomware over the past year. These industries are particularly vulnerable due to the potential for operational disruption, the sensitivity of stolen data, and the associated risks of reputational damage and regulatory fallout.

    The Oil & Gas sector has seen a staggering increase in ransomware attacks, spiking over 900% year-over-year. This surge is likely a result of increased automation of systems that control critical infrastructure, including drilling rigs and pipelines, expanding the sector’s attack surface, coupled with outdated security practices.

    United States Is the Target of Half of All Ransomware Attacks
    Leak site data highlights a distinct geographic disparity, with victims in the United States accounting for 50% of ransomware attacks, significantly outpacing Canada (5%) and the United Kingdom (4%). Ransomware attacks in the U.S. more than doubled to 3,671, exceeding the combined total number of attacks reported across all other countries in the top 15 most-targeted countries. This concentration demonstrates how threat actors continue to strategically target digitally concentrated, high-value economies.

    Ransomware Groups Driving the Surge
    Several highly active groups continued to dominate the ransomware ecosystem, with RansomHub leading the pack, claiming the highest number of publicly named victims at 833. Akira and Clop have both moved up in the ransomware attack rankings since last year. Akira, associated with 520 victims, has steadily expanded its reach through numerous affiliates and initial access brokers. Clop, known for its focus on supply chain attacks, is close behind with 488 victims, employing an effective strategy of exploiting vulnerabilities in commonly used third-party software.

    Zscaler ThreatLabz identified 34 newly active ransomware families over the past year, bringing the total number tracked to 425 since their research began, and has a public GitHub repository that now hosts 1,018 ransomware notes, with 73 added in the last year.

    How Zscaler Stops Ransomware with Zero Trust + AI
    Ransomware flourishes in environments with fragmented security, limited visibility, implicit trust, and outdated legacy architectures that amplify risk rather than reduce it. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange mitigates these risks by replacing traditional, network-centric models with a cloud-native, AI-driven zero trust architecture, and stops ransomware at every stage of the attack life cycle by:

    • Minimizing the attack surface
    • Preventing initial compromise
    • Eliminating lateral movement
    • Blocking data exfiltration

    Additional AI-powered ransomware protections from Zscaler include:

    • Breach prediction
    • Phishing and C2 detection
    • Inline sandboxing
    • Zero Trust Browser
    • Segmentation
    • Dynamic, risk-based policy
    • Data discovery and classification
    • Data loss prevention (DLP) controls

    Download the Report
    Get the full ThreatLabz 2025 Ransomware Report to explore how Zscaler ThreatLabz plays an active role in protecting enterprises worldwide. Download today.

    Research Methodology
    The research methodology for this report is a comprehensive process that uses multiple data sources to identify and track ransomware trends. The ThreatLabz team collected data between April 2024 and April 2025 from sources including the Zscaler global security cloud, and the team’s own analysis of ransomware samples and attack data.

    About ThreatLabz
    ThreatLabz is the security research arm of Zscaler. This world-class team is responsible for hunting new threats and ensuring that the thousands of organizations using the global Zscaler platform are always protected. In addition to malware research and behavioral analysis, team members are involved in the research and development of new prototype modules for advanced threat protection on the Zscaler platform, and regularly conduct internal security audits to ensure that Zscaler products and infrastructure meet security compliance standards. ThreatLabz regularly publishes in-depth analyses of new and emerging threats on its portal, research.zscaler.com.

    About Zscaler
    Zscaler (NASDAQ: ZS) accelerates digital transformation so customers can be more agile, efficient, resilient, and secure. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform protects thousands of customers from cyberattacks and data loss by securely connecting users, devices, and applications in any location. Distributed across more than 160 data centers globally, the SASE-based Zero Trust Exchange is the world’s largest in-line cloud security platform.

    Media Contact:
    Nick Gonzalez
    press@zscaler.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b92c9822-3941-45ec-8aa1-87defcd57281

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Himax Subsidiary Liqxtal Proprietary Vision-Care Pro-Eye Monitor Named Finalist for Top Ten Age-Friendly Technology Product

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAINAN, Taiwan, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liqxtal Technology Inc. (“Liqxtal”), a subsidiary of Himax Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: HIMX), and a pioneer in liquid crystal optical innovation, today announced that its flagship vision-care product, the Liqxtal® Pro-Eye Monitor, has been selected as a finalist in the 2025 Top Ten Age-Friendly Technology Product Awards, presented by the Taiwan Healthy Ageing Tech Show Committee. This prestigious recognition honors outstanding innovations that promote health, comfort, and quality of life for Taiwan’s aging population.

    Built on Liqxtal’s patented electrically tunable liquid crystal technology, the Pro-Eye monitor projects digital images to a virtual viewing distance of approximately 16 feet, dramatically farther than the typical 20 – 24 inches of conventional monitors. This design significantly eases ciliary muscle strain and reduces eye fatigue, offering a more natural and effortless viewing experience, especially for seniors experiencing dry eyes or blurred vision due to extended screen use.

    With Taiwan’s senior population rapidly growing, technologies that support visual wellness are increasingly vital to long-term care and healthy aging. Since its debut, the Pro-Eye Monitor has garnered strong interest across healthcare, eldercare, and smart home industries for its potential to redefine visual comfort for older adults. Evaluated by a panel of experts from the Taiwan Ministry of Economic Affairs and academic institutions, its selection as a top ten finalist underscores Liqxtal’s leadership in age-friendly innovation.

    Liqxtal Pro-Eye Monitor will be showcased at the 2025 Taiwan Healthy Ageing Tech Show, held August 8 – 10 at Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. Purposefully engineered to address age-related visual challenges, the Pro-Eye represents Liqxtal’s commitment to improving elderly eye health through advanced optical technology. During the event, Liqxtal will also exhibit other smart optical solutions, including the Liqxtal® Dim, which integrates Liqxtal’s proprietary pixelated liquid crystal light valve with Himax’s WiseEye™ ultralow power AI sensing technology, empowering an intelligent system that automatically adjusts light transmittance based on ambient conditions, enhancing both comfort and safety for seniors in varying lighting environments.

    “Liqxtal has been dedicated to advancing liquid crystal optical technologies to deliver eye-care solutions that provide both comfort and functionality,” said Dr. Hung Shan Chen, President of Liqxtal. “Being named a finalist for the top 10 Age-Friendly Technology Awards is a significant milestone that reinforces our commitment to extending this transformative technology to a broader range of aging-related applications, bringing us closer to our vision of a smarter, healthier lifestyle.”

    Liqxtal warmly invites media, healthcare professionals, and industry partners to visit Booth A805 at the Taiwan Healthy Ageing Tech Show during August 8 –10, to experience the Pro-Eye Monitor firsthand and explore how next-generation liquid crystal optics are shaping the future of visual wellness in senior care.

    About Liqxtal Technology Inc.

    Liqxtal Technology Inc. is a Taiwan based company that has been focused on exploring opportunities with liquid crystal (“LC”) beyond just displays since the company’s inception. With a distinguished track record in liquid crystal optics, Liqxtal has developed liquid crystal based optical components such as LC lens for ophthalmic application, LC diffuser for 3D sensing and LC retarder for light sensing. Additionally, Liqxtal designed and released LQ001, a high voltage & tunable frequency LC driver with a 1mm x 2mm footprint, which is particularly ideal for portable products. As a subsidiary of Himax Technologies, Liqxtal also integrates novel display solutions such as tunable backlight with local dimming capability powered by FPGA for niche applications. Lastly, Liqxtal is dedicated to novel vision eyewear technology and strives to innovate and advance useful optical solutions to the world.

    About Himax Technologies, Inc.

    Himax Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: HIMX) is a leading global fabless semiconductor solution provider dedicated to display imaging processing technologies. The Company’s display driver ICs and timing controllers have been adopted at scale across multiple industries worldwide including TVs, PC monitors, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, automotive, ePaper devices, industrial displays, among others. As the global market share leader in automotive display technology, the Company offers innovative and comprehensive automotive IC solutions, including traditional driver ICs, advanced in-cell Touch and Display Driver Integration (TDDI), local dimming timing controllers (Local Dimming Tcon), Large Touch and Display Driver Integration (LTDI) and OLED display technologies. Himax is also a pioneer in tinyML visual-AI and optical technology related fields. The Company’s industry-leading WiseEye™ Ultralow Power AI Sensing technology which incorporates Himax proprietary ultralow power AI processor, always-on CMOS image sensor, and CNN-based AI algorithm has been widely deployed in consumer electronics and AIoT related applications. Himax optics technologies, such as diffractive wafer level optics, LCoS microdisplays and 3D sensing solutions, are critical for facilitating emerging AR/VR/metaverse technologies. Additionally, Himax designs and provides touch controllers, OLED ICs, LED ICs, EPD ICs, power management ICs, and CMOS image sensors for diverse display application coverage. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Tainan, Taiwan, Himax currently employs around 2,200 people from three Taiwan-based offices in Tainan, Hsinchu and Taipei and country offices in China, Korea, Japan, Germany, and the US. Himax has 2,609 patents granted and 370 patents pending approval worldwide as of June 30, 2025.

    http://www.himax.com.tw

    Forward Looking Statements

    Factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in this conference call include, but are not limited to, the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Company’s business; general business and economic conditions and the state of the semiconductor industry; market acceptance and competitiveness of the driver and non-driver products developed by the Company; demand for end-use applications products; reliance on a small group of principal customers; the uncertainty of continued success in technological innovations; our ability to develop and protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures including declines in average selling prices; changes in customer order patterns; changes in estimated full-year effective tax rate; shortage in supply of key components; changes in environmental laws and regulations; changes in export license regulated by Export Administration Regulations (EAR); exchange rate fluctuations; regulatory approvals for further investments in our subsidiaries; our ability to collect accounts receivable and manage inventory and other risks described from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings, including those risks identified in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in its Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the SEC, as may be amended.

    Liqxtal Contact:

    Henry Hung, Deputy Director of Market & Sales Division
    Liqxtal Technology Inc.
    Tel: +886-6-505-0880
    Email: info@liqxtal.com

    Himax Contacts:

    Karen Tiao, Head of IR/PR
    Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Tel: +886-2-2370-3999
    Fax: +886-2-2314-0877
    Email: hx_ir@himax.com.tw
    www.himax.com.tw

    Mark Schwalenberg, Director
    Investor Relations – US Representative
    MZ North America
    Tel: +1-312-261-6430
    Email: HIMX@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/30cd9f50-e221-43d4-a3cb-836122c81cf7

    The MIL Network –

  • NISAR set to transform earth science with ISRO-NASA collaboration

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The first images of Earth were captured in 1946 through a motion camera picture. The world stood still from far above while its floor held the chaos on its surface and beneath all the land. Almost eight decades from then, the world will now see what is on and under Earth in remarkable detail, all thanks to the collaborative project between ISRO and NASA called “NISAR.” Slated to be launched on July 30 from India’s Satish Dhawan Space Center,the mission is set to change the course of how we see this planet.

    What exactly is NISAR?

    NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) aims to monitor Earth’s surface using advanced radar imaging. A three-dimensional view of Earth will be generated through the two radars of NISARthat will be able to track changes in the surface with accuracy of a fraction of an inch. This project, which cost around $1.4 billion, is more than just a testament of collaboration between NASA and ISRO but a scientific marvel in itself. NISAR is the most advanced radar system that will generate around 80 terabytes of data per day. That is equivalent to one hundred and fifty hard drives that can store 512 GB. This is the maximum amount of data that will be generated per day by any Earth satellite that has ever been launched by NASA or ISRO. TheS-Band Radar of NISAR was developed by ISRO’s center in Ahmedabad, and the L-Band Radar was produced by NASA in Southern California. The labelling “L and S Band” is attributed to the microwave bandwidth regions from which the radar will collect the data.

    How will this data from NISAR change things for scientists?

    NISAR will map changes on the surface of Earth.Broadly, the applications can be seen in natural hazard monitoring, assessment of sea, ice, and glaciers, and also in crop management. The satellite will be able to see through clouds, rain, and in both day and night. The data will be able to provide insights into the time of glacial melting and provide unprecedented coverage ofAntarctica. Moreover, through NISAR, it will be possible to identify the parts of fault lines that move slowly and detect land movement essential for understanding and detecting earthquakes. Earthquakes have damaged large dams, like Koyna in 1967 and Shih-Gang in 1999, due to shaking or fault movement. NISAR satellite data can help prevent such failures by mapping ground shifts and fault risks with high precision.

    The satellite will be used for ecosystem monitoring for land and ice-covered surfaces twice every twelve days and will also include parts of Earth that were not monitored so rigorously and with such frequency in the past. From forest canopies to croplands and from ice melts to land movements, NISAR will cover everything. Such detailed monitoring with advanced radar systems will thus paint a fresh picture of the planet in front of scientists. The data collected by NISAR is open access and is expected to unravel details of land movement and of ecosystems that may provide novel insights.From scientists to policymakers, this data will revolutionize our understanding of the planet.

    Space Diplomacy and India’s new chapter in space

    The NISAR project is critical to the US and India’s pioneering year of civil space cooperation. It was only in February 2025 when PM Modi visited the US and met President Donald Trump; the leaders hailed 2025 as a pioneering year for the U.S.-India civil space cooperation. The cooperation saw a bright beginning with the AXIOM Mission where Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla traveled to space in a collaborative mission with NASA, making him only the second after Rakesh Sharma after a gap of almost four decades. It is clear that India is scripting a new chapter in space diplomacy, and it is not restricted only to the USA. ISRO has ongoing collaborative missions with other countries like France,Japan, Australia, Russia, Italy, and Europe. Given the success rate of ISRO, it has also become a key player in foreign launches with 433 foreign satellite launches from 34 countries. ISRO is pioneering space diplomacy through strategic international collaborations, fostering global cooperation and scientific advancement. By sharing expertise, resources, and satellite data, ISRO enhances global space research, promotes peaceful exploration, and positions India as a leader in space diplomacy.

    Radar, Real-Time, and Responsibility

    The NISAR mission marks a monumental leap in Earth observation, uniting ISRO and NASA in a shared vision to unravel our planet’s dynamic processes. By delivering unprecedented radar data, NISAR will empower scientists and policymakers to tackle climate change, natural disasters, and sustainable resource management with newfound precision. Beyond its scientific impact, the mission underscores India’s growing stature in space diplomacy, forging global partnerships that advance peaceful exploration and collective knowledge. As ISRO continues to collaborate with nations like the U.S., France, and Japan, NISAR stands as a beacon of innovation, cooperation, and India’s leadership in shaping the future of space exploration.

    (Pooja Mishra is a Content Researcher at DD India)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insolvency Rules Committee: Reappointment of 2 solicitor members

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Insolvency Rules Committee: Reappointment of 2 solicitor members

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the reappointments of Robert Paterson and Alexander Wood as solicitor members of the Insolvency Rules Committee.

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the reappointments, for a second term of Robert Paterson and Alexander Wood as Solicitor Members of the Insolvency Rules Committee for four years. Robert Paterson second term will commence on 26 June 2026. Alexander Wood’s second term will commence on 30 September 2026.

    Biographies

    Robert Paterson is a partner at Wedlake Bell LLP and specialises in all aspects of restructuring and insolvency law. He acts for officeholders, lenders, directors and creditors. He has recently advised on several cross-border insolvencies. Robert spent six months on secondment to the Policy Unit of the Insolvency Service. He is also a licensed insolvency practitioner.

    He has not declared any political activity.

    Alexander Wood is a partner at McDermott Will & Emery. He has over 25 years’ experience working on some of the most complex insolvency and restructuring matters including Westinghouse, MF Global, the Lehman Bros cases and the sovereign debt restructures of Ukraine and Argentina. He is also an Honorary Professor of Practice at UCL where he teaches corporate restructuring and insolvency at post-graduate level.

    He has not declared any political activity.

    The reappointment of Solicitor members of the Insolvency Rules Committee are made, by the Lord Chancellor after consulting the Lady Chief Justice, under Section 413 of the Insolvency Act 1986.

    The appointment of non-judicial members of the Insolvency Rules Committee are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments and recruitment and reappointment processes comply with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: His Majesty The King takes in Caithness nuclear history

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    His Majesty The King takes in Caithness nuclear history

    His Majesty The King met with members of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group in Caithness Scotland, to mark series of significant milestones.

    King Charles and NDA Group CEO David Peattie

    The nuclear industry marked three significant anniversaries this week as His Majesty The King met with members of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group in Caithness Scotland, during his annual visit to the region.

    The visit recognised the NDA group’s progress in its national mission to safely decommission the UK’s earliest nuclear sites, and its long-standing contribution to sustainability and economic development in the region and across the UK.

    It coincided with the NDA group marking several significant milestones including the 20th anniversary of the NDA and 70 years for NRS Dounreay, which has been an enduring presence at the heart of the Caithness community.

    The site began its life as the UK’s centre of pioneering fast reactor research and is now once again, at the forefront of science and engineering – developing first of a kind solutions for complex nuclear decommissioning challenges.

    This year also marks 50 years for Pacific Nuclear Transport Ltd (PNTL). Founded in 1975, PNTL is the world’s leading maritime nuclear transporter and part of NDA subsidiary, Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS). The King also viewed the Pacific Heron, part of the PNTL fleet of ships designed to safely transport nuclear materials around the globe.

    His Majesty met members of the crew, the most experienced in the world boasting a flawless safety record, currently in Caithness while undertaking required sea-hours. The King was also introduced to other employees from the NDA group, representatives from UK and Scottish Government, and members of the local Caithness community.  

    King Charles meets Caithness community members

    NDA group CEO David Peattie said:

    I was delighted to welcome His Majesty The King and introduce him to valued staff members and stakeholders. It’s a powerful reminder of the national importance of the mission we’re delivering on behalf on the UK.

    Together with King Charles we share a passion for sustainability and protecting the planet. The NDA group is responsible for one of the biggest environmental remediation programmes in the world, and we are committed to leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

    From decommissioning legacy facilities and driving towards carbon net zero to investing in projects in the local community which help diversify the economy and grow skills, we’re proud to be a responsible neighbour and make a positive difference in our site communities.

    King Charles and NDA Group CEO David Peattie

    The NDA group is one of the largest employers in the region, supporting over 1,500 jobs on site and in the supply chain, and over 50% of Dounreay’s supply chain spend is with Caithness owned or resourced companies.

    It also partners with the community to invest around £1million of socio-economic funding each year in programmes across Caithness and North Sutherland as part of its commitment to supporting prosperous communities arounds its sites.

    Since 2019 it’s invested £5 million in developing Scrabster Harbour to enhance its capacity to accommodate cruise ships and help diversify the economy. Since cruising restarted in 2023, 40 ships have brought business to the local community.

    Last week the NDA group also confirmed a further investment of £1million into the Caithness & North Sutherland Fund for the next three years, taking the total investment to £5million.

    So far, the fund has supported more than 251 projects aimed at attracting more people to live, work and invest in the area.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ECB Consumer Expectations Survey results – June 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    29 July 2025

    Compared with May 2025:

    • median consumer perceptions of inflation over the previous 12 months remained unchanged, as did median expectations for inflation three and five years ahead, while median inflation expectations for one year ahead decreased;
    • expectations for nominal income growth over the next 12 months remained unchanged, while expectations for spending growth over the next 12 months decreased;
    • expectations for economic growth over the next 12 months became less negative, while the expected unemployment rate in 12 months’ time decreased;
    • expectations for growth in the price of homes over the next 12 months decreased slightly, as did expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead.

    Inflation

    In June, the median rate of perceived inflation over the previous 12 months remained unchanged at 3.1% for the fifth consecutive month, its lowest level since September 2021. Meanwhile, median expectations for inflation over the next 12 months decreased by 0.2 percentage points to 2.6%, meaning that the increases observed in March and April were fully reversed in May and June. Expectations for three years ahead were unchanged at 2.4%, while expectations for inflation five years ahead held steady at 2.1% for the seventh consecutive month. Uncertainty about inflation expectations over the next 12 months was unchanged in June. Broadly, the evolution of inflation perceptions and expectations followed similar trends across income groups. However, over the previous year and a half lower income quintiles reported slightly higher inflation perceptions and short-horizon expectations than higher income quintiles. Younger respondents (aged 18-34) continued to report lower inflation perceptions and expectations than older respondents (aged 35-54 and 55-70), although the gap was narrower than in previous years.

    Inflation results

    Income and consumption

    Consumers’ expectations for nominal income growth over the next 12 months remained unchanged at 1.0% in June. However, this apparent stability conceals a decline in expectations among higher income individuals, offset by an increase in expectations among lower income groups. Perceived nominal spending growth over the previous 12 months held steady at 5.0% in June. In contrast, expected nominal spending growth over the next 12 months decreased further to 3.2% in June, from 3.5% in May and 3.7% in April. This decline reflects the heightened economic uncertainty of recent months as well as lower expected inflation.

    Income and consumption results

    Economic growth and labour market

    Economic growth expectations for the next 12 months became less negative, rising to -1.0% in June from -1.1% in May and -1.9% in April. Expectations for the unemployment rate 12 months ahead edged down to 10.3% in June, from 10.4% in May. Consumers continued to expect that the future unemployment rate would be only slightly higher than the perceived current unemployment rate (9.8%), suggesting a broadly stable labour market outlook.

    Economic growth and labour market results

    Housing and credit access

    Consumers expected the price of their home to increase by 3.1% over the next 12 months, a slight decline from 3.2% in May. Expectations for mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead fell to 4.3%, down from 4.4% in May. As in previous months, lower income households expected the highest mortgage interest rates 12 months ahead (4.9%), while higher income households expected the lowest rates (3.9%). The net percentage of households reporting tighter (relative to those reporting easier) access to credit over the previous 12 months increased slightly, while the net percentage of those expecting tighter credit conditions over the next 12 months declined marginally.

    Housing and credit access results

    The microdata underlying the aggregate results are available on the Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) web page in the Data and methodological information section.

    The release of the Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) results for July is scheduled for 1 September 2025.

    For media queries, please contact: Alessandro Speciale, tel.: +49 172 1670791.

    Notes

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Willis predicts natural catastrophes will not offer insurers any respite in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Natural catastrophes continue to put a strain on global insurance markets, according to the latest Natural Catastrophe Review published today by Willis, a WTW business (NASDAQ: WTW).

    Worldwide, insured losses from natural catastrophes now consistently exceed USD 100 billion per year. It’s been six years since the insurance industry last experienced a year with low losses from natural catastrophes. Events so far in 2025 indicate that losses exceeding USD 100 billion will very likely continue for at least another year.

    The Willis Natural Catastrophe Review is a biannual publication that provides insights into recent natural catastrophes and shares expert views on the risks posed by major perils. It sets out the causes and effects of major catastrophes in 2025 to date and goes beyond the headlines to identify the underlying factors that made them possible. The Review also provides an expert outlook for the rest of the year and into 2026, exploring potential threats from hurricanes, drought, flood and other hazards.

    Other key trends to note:

    • Exceptional natural catastrophes: So far, major events in 2025 include the Los Angeles wildfires (globally, the worst wildfire event ever with respect to insured losses), the worst wildfires in Japan and South Korea in at least a generation, the third-most active year on record for tornadoes in the United States, the first landfalling cyclone near Brisbane, Australia in 50 years, and the highest wind speed ever recorded over Ireland.
    • Natural catastrophes under climate change: The severity and scale of recent catastrophes underlines the need to confront a new era of climate extremes. Risk managers must reassess the risk, integrate climate forecasts into their plans, and ensure insurance and risk frameworks are optimized for today’s evolving threats. Data-driven strategies are needed to narrow protection gaps and to stay resilient in a rapidly changing world.
    • Leveraging scientific advances to mitigate future risks: The Review presents a forward view on natural catastrophe risk for the remainder of 2025 and early 2026. It also provides concrete advice on how to make the most of seasonal weather forecasts and identifies geographic regions that may be exposed to elevated catastrophe risk during the next three to six months.

    Peter Carter, Head of Climate Practice, Willis, said: “2024 continued a 6-year streak of natural catastrophe losses in excess of USD 100 billion.  The wildfires in Los Angeles early in 2025 will drive estimated losses of USD 40 billion alone so the streak looks set to continue. With global efforts likely failing to keep the temperature below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, our focus must now turn to adapting and building resilience in the face of this new reality.”

    Cameron Rye, Director, Natural Catastrophe Analytics, Willis said: “The Los Angeles wildfires of January 2025 resulted in insured losses more than USD $40 billion, equivalent to nearly one-third of global insured losses the previous year. The scale and timing of the event placed immediate pressure on insurers’ catastrophe loss budgets at the beginning of the year and prompted a renewed focus on how wildfire risk is modelled, particularly in high-exposure areas like the urban-wildland interface. With an above-average number of storms predicted for the North Atlantic hurricane season, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the costliest years on record for (re)insurers.”

    The full Natural Catastrophe Review can be accessed here.

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

    Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media Contacts

    Lauren David
    Lauren.David@wtwco.com
    +44 7385947619

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Saving Birds in Wind Farms With AI: Boulder Imaging and Oikon Launch IdentiFlight in Croatia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Pročitajte ovu objavu na hrvatskom na www.identiflight.com/blog/oikon.

    LOUISVILLE, Colo., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boulder Imaging has partnered with Oikon Ltd., Croatia’s leading environmental consultancy, to bring AI-powered bird protection technology to wind farms across Southeast Europe. Through the deployment of Boulder Imaging’s IdentiFlight system, the partnership supports the growing demand for sustainable wind development while also protecting biodiversity.

    As Croatia ramps up renewable energy under the European Green Deal, strict permitting requirements now mandate detailed environmental impact assessments, particularly for wind farms near Natura 2000 sites. IdentiFlight’s real-time bird detection and automated turbine curtailment capabilities help developers meet these standards, reducing permitting risk while protecting high-concern species such as Eurasian griffons, honey buzzards, short-toed snake eagles, golden eagles, and kestrels.

    “IdentiFlight is a proven solution that aligns with our mission to harmonize development with nature conservation,” said Dalibor Hatić, general manager of Oikon Ltd. “We’re excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to Croatia and the broader Southeast European region where wind energy is expanding and biodiversity protection is critical. Our goal is to ensure that wind development can thrive without compromising our common natural heritage.”

    “Partnering with Oikon Ltd. enhances our ability to deliver conservation-driven technology where it’s most needed,” said Don Mills, President and Chief Operating Officer of Boulder Imaging. “Together, we’re advancing the role of AI in biodiversity protection and accelerating responsible wind energy growth in Croatia and beyond.”

    With more than 520 systems deployed across five continents, IdentiFlight has reduced bird fatalities by over 85% while maintaining a power generation loss of less than 1% in wind farms. The first systems in Croatia are planned for 2026, with an initial focus on sensitive migratory corridors and ecologically valuable terrain.

    AI that protects biodiversity. Ecology that drives progress.
    To learn more about IdentiFlight’s AI-powered bird protection technology, visit www.identiflight.com.
    To explore Oikon’s environmental expertise, visit www.oikon.hr.

    About Boulder Imaging
    Founded in 1995, Boulder Imaging develops and delivers innovative machine vision and artificial intelligence solutions that redefine quality assurance. With unmatched speed, accuracy, and scalability, its inspection systems address complex challenges in industries such as renewable energy, automotive, architectural products, and security paper. Headquartered in Colorado, Boulder Imaging is dedicated to advancing machine vision technology to meet global inspection needs.

    For more information, visit www.boulderimaging.com.

    About Oikon Ltd. – Institute of Applied Ecology
    Oikon Ltd. – Institute of Applied Ecology is Croatia’s leading licensed environmental consultancy, offering integrated solutions in environmental protection, nature protection, natural resource management, environmental law and legislation, and sustainability services. Since 1997, Oikon has supported public institutions, developers, development banks and conservation organizations in aligning economic development with ecological sustainability, in line with Croatian legislation and EU directives. In addition to its leadership in Croatia, Oikon provides expert services across Southeast Europe, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, Cyprus and Turkey, delivering regional solutions that reflect global environmental standards.

    For more information, visit www.oikon.hr.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aab070b8-b89d-4704-b2f7-5de9fccb55f6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Eviden to deploy a 5G Mobile Private Network at Port of Ploče

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Eviden to deploy a 5G Mobile Private Network at Port of Ploče

    Ploče, Croatia – July 29, 2025 – Eviden, the Atos Group product brand leading in advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems and vision AI, today announces that it has been awarded a strategic contract to deploy a 5G Mobile Private Network featuring key components of its Lifelink solution at the Port of Ploče in Croatia. This initiative marks a major step in the port’s digital transformation journey through the ambitious Smart Port project, aimed at modernizing logistics, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing security using cutting-edge 5G technology.

    The Port of Ploče serves as a critical logistics hub in Central and Southeastern Europe, and the deployment of a dedicated 5G network will enable seamless, real-time connectivity across port operations. The project is being delivered in collaboration with local partner Markoja.

    “This implementation is a pivotal move toward smarter, safer and more connected port operations to support the Port of Ploče’s digital agenda”, said Sandi Marušić, Head of Eviden, Atos Group, in Croatia.

    “We are proud to bring our industry-proven Lifelink solution designed to deliver secure, high-performance connectivity for mission-critical environments”, said Lionel Toullier, Global Head of Critical-Communication Solutions, Eviden, Atos Group.

    “Through this agreement, we will significantly enhance and digitalize processes within the port area. This will ultimately enable better traffic management, increase efficiency in the transport of goods and passengers, improve safety in cargo transport and port operations, and reduce pollution,” said Tomislav Batur, Director of the Port of Ploče Authority.

    The Lifelink 5G Mobile Private Network key components deployed by Eviden’s critical communications experts, support:

    • Real-time location system (RTLS): Enables accurate tracking of ships and vehicles, improves traffic, mooring and parking management within the port, and increases security by preventing unauthorized access.
    • Advanced cargo monitoring: Implementation of smart cameras and sensors for automated cargo identification and analytics, improving the safety and efficiency of terminal operations.
    • Incident prevention and management: Deployment of thermal cameras, fire sensors, and air and sea quality measurement sensors, along with a local weather station, to strengthen safety protocols and emergency response capabilities.
    • Drone surveillance: The 5G private network will also support real-time drone operations for cargo and infrastructure monitoring.

    About Lifelink:

    Eviden’s Lifelink solution is specifically designed for mission-critical environments. It offers:

    • Secure and resilient communication
    • Low-latency, high-throughput connectivity
    • Integration with IoT, AI, and edge computing
    • Custom engineering for complex operational landscapes

    Proven success of its Lifelink solution in defense, energy and utilities now leads Eviden to expand into large-scale infrastructure projects in the transport and manufacturing sectors.

    ***

    About Eviden

    Eviden is the Atos Group brand for hardware and software products with c. € 1 billion in revenue, operating in 36 countries and comprising four business units: advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems and vision AI. As a next-generation technology leader, Eviden offers a unique combination of hardware and software technologies for businesses, public sector and defense organizations and research institutions, helping them to create value out of their data. Bringing together more than 4,500 world-class talents and holding more than 2,100 patents, Eviden provides a strong portfolio of innovative and eco-efficient solutions in AI, computing, security, data and applications.

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contacts

    Atos Group: Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88

    Eviden: Ivana Sotonica | ivana.sotonica@eviden.com | +385 91 2867 163

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing to host 2026 World Aquatics Short-Course Swimming Championships

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

    Beijing has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 World Aquatics Short-Course Swimming Championships following a decision by the World Aquatics Bureau.

    The announcement was made during the World Aquatics General Congress in Singapore, held alongside the ongoing World Aquatics Championships.

    Swimmers start at the men’s 200m individual medley final at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25M) in Budapest, Hungary, Dec. 10, 2024. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

    More than 1,000 elite swimmers from over 200 countries and regions are expected to compete in the Chinese capital over six days in late 2026.

    Beijing, known for its extensive experience in hosting major international sporting events, was selected after a competitive bidding process, World Aquatics said.

    “Beijing has demonstrated time and again its capacity to deliver world-class events across all aquatic disciplines,” said World Aquatics president Husain Al-Musallam. “We are confident that this tradition of excellence will continue in 2026.”

    Beijing has previously hosted 38 World Aquatics events and is also set to stage the full-scale World Aquatics Championships in 2029, which will include open water swimming and high diving in addition to the five core disciplines.

    This will be the third time China has hosted the World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m), following Shanghai in 2006 and Hangzhou in 2018.

    Chinese Swimming Association president Zhou Jihong welcomed the decision. “We are thrilled and deeply honored to host this prestigious championship in Beijing, a city with a strong Olympic legacy and enduring passion for aquatic sports,” said Zhou. “This is an important opportunity to showcase the talents of the world’s best swimmers, and we will work tirelessly to ensure a world-class experience for athletes, officials, and fans alike.”

    Among those anticipating the event is Chinese Olympic champion and men’s 100m freestyle long-course world record holder Pan Zhanle.

    “I can’t wait to compete in front of a home crowd,” said Pan. “The short-course championships bring a unique intensity and excitement. I hope to make history in Beijing and inspire the next generation of swimmers.”

    With the successful bid, China further strengthens its role as a major contributor to the global aquatics community, having hosted more than 100 World Aquatics events to date, the federation said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO organizes media trip to Shanxi and Hunan

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

    SCIO organizes media trip to Shanxi and Hunan

    China SCIO | July 29, 2025

    The State Council Information Office (SCIO) organized a media trip from July 22-26 to China’s Shanxi and Hunan provinces, inviting journalists to visit memorial facilities and historical sites of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The group included foreign correspondents from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Japan, Singapore, and Indonesia, and they conducted interviews with veterans of the war as well as families of fallen heroes.

    Reporters visit the Eighth Route Army Taihang Memorial Hall in Changzhi, Shanxi province, July 23, 2025. [Photo by Liu Jian/China SCIO]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RSH announces statutory appointments to the Board of Ash-Shahada Housing Association Limited

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    RSH announces statutory appointments to the Board of Ash-Shahada Housing Association Limited

    The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has made three statutory appointments to the Board of Ash-Shahada Housing Association Limited (Ash-Shahada). 

    Ash-Shahada is a London-based landlord providing social housing in London and supported exempt accommodation in Birmingham. RSH published a regulatory notice in July 2021 which found a number of failures relating to the Governance and Financial Viability Standard.  

    The new appointments are: 

    • Martin Tiplady OBE 

    • Sarah Cameron 

    • Waqar Ahmed 

    Jonathan Walters, Deputy Chief Executive of RSH, said: 

    Following the publication of the regulatory notice, we have been working with Ash-Shahada to ensure it addresses the weaknesses identified.  

    We have made these three appointments to ensure that the Board has the capacity and capability it needs to resolve the governance failures.

    Notes to Editors

    1. A registered provider is responsible for ensuring that it manages itself effectively, achieves the standards set by the regulator, and engages positively with the regulator’s regulatory framework. Where a failure against a standard or other problem has been identified, the regulator expects providers to respond in a prompt and effective manner. It may be necessary for the regulator to step in and exercise its powers under the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 as amended (the Act) when a provider fails to do so.  The regulator has published guidance on how the regulator uses and intends to use its statutory regulatory and enforcement powers. 

    2. Section 269 of the Act enables the regulator to appoint one or more persons as an officer of a private registered provider.   

    3. The regulatory standards page provides information about the economic and consumer standards that registered providers must meet.

    For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKAEA’s RACE2Mars team wins UKSEDS Olympus Rover Trials

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UKAEA’s RACE2Mars team wins UKSEDS Olympus Rover Trials

    A team of engineering apprentices and graduates from UKAEA won first prize in the UK Students for the Exploration and Development of Space Olympus Rover Trials

    RACE2Mars team with their rover design – Image credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    A team of engineering apprentices and graduates from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) has claimed first place in the prestigious Olympus Rover Trials.

    The Trials, organised by UK Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (UKSEDS), were held recently at Airbus Defence and Space’s Mars Yard.

    The winning team, RACE2Mars, work in UKAEA’s Remote Applications in Challenging Environments (RACE). The skills developed through UKAEA’s work for fusion energy – remote handling and control systems in extreme environments – are directly applicable to the challenges of space exploration.

    RACE2Mars was tasked with designing, building, and then operating the rover within a simulated Mars exploration mission at the Mars Yard, a specially designed environment mimicking Martian terrain.

    The Olympus Rover Trials involved navigating the rover through rough terrain and scanning QR codes.

    RACE2Mars was one of only twelve teams across the UK to qualify for the final competition day, following a rigorous selection process that included a preliminary design review and critical design review by a panel of engineers.

    Dean Gooding, Graduate Control Systems and Software Engineer, UKAEA, said:

    The Olympus Rover Trials has been a fantastic opportunity to lead an ambitious project and strengthen my leadership, organisational, and technical skills. As a team, we tackled challenging mechanical and electrical engineering constraints, refined our programming skills, learned to write effective design documents, and developed solid testing strategies – gaining a huge amount of experience along the way.

    Rhiannon Jones, Electrical Engineering Apprentice, UKAEA, added:

    The project has been a great opportunity to learn and develop. It’s rare to see all aspects of a project due to how long-term they can be. It’s also been excellent to be part of a team of developing engineers—I’ve really enjoyed working on this.

    Nick Sykes, Director of RACE, UKAEA, commented:

    This achievement is a testament to the talent, creativity, and dedication of our early-career engineers. The RACE2Mars team not only demonstrated technical excellence but also embodied the spirit of collaboration and innovation that UKAEA is proud to foster.

    This win highlights the exciting crossover between fusion energy and the space sector.

    Oliver Lee, Olympic Rover Trials Co-lead at UKSEDS, said:

    The RACE2Mars from UKAEA should be very proud of what they have achieved. Their hard work and enthusiasm was reflected by their performance across the board, from their outstanding Mars Yard demonstration to their impressive outreach efforts. We very much look forward to seeing what’s next for the upcoming competition year.

    RACE2Mars team’s rover design in The Mars Yard – Image credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Residents face £200 fines for fox and gull-ravaged rubbish

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Residents face £200 fines for fox and gull-ravaged rubbish

    “We’ll be back.” That is not the infamous cry of Arnie but of Canterbury City Council’s Environmental Crime Officers after hitting two residents with £200 fines each.

    People living and running businesses in and around the area of Herne Bay High Street are tired of those who put out their domestic and commercial waste on the street to be attacked by foxes and seagulls. They leave it strewn across the roads and pavement.

    Last month, officers arrived at 4am on subsequent mornings to investigate what had been dumped overnight and by whom.

    Two residents were issued with fixed penalty notices for the offence of littering.

    Officers will be turning up unannounced in future weeks and months to catch any other culprits.

    Cllr Connie Nolan, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Safety and Enforcement, said: “When people don’t follow the rules around putting their rubbish out at the right time, everyone else suffers.

    “Being faced with putrid piles of waste every morning must be disheartening and affect your quality of life.

    “That is especially true for the crews from our waste contractor Canenco who have to clear it all up by hand day after day after day.

    “Our officers specialising in environmental crime are early birds and will be back – if they catch you in the act, you will also be fined £200 and rightly so.

    “For those businesses not disposing of their waste legitimately, we will be checking on them too.”

    The rules for people living near the High Street and businesses operating in the area are:

    • domestic waste should only be put out in council-issued purple sacks
    • domestic rubbish day in the High Street is on Tuesdays – rubbish should not be put out before 5pm on Mondays except on bank holidays when changes to the normal arrangements are heavily publicised
    • businesses need to arrange for a commercial waste contractor to take their rubbish away

    If residents are struggling to store their waste, they need to talk to their landlords.

    Residents can report a missed collection on the council’s website where they can also report littering and flytipping.

    Published: 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft employees took an active part in the Water of Russia campaign

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft employees are actively participating in the All-Russian campaign “Water of Russia”. Oil workers are holding campaigns in the regions to clean the banks of water bodies from garbage and household waste, and measures to develop natural sources.

    Preserving the environment for future generations is an integral part of Rosneft’s strategy. The company and its subsidiaries aim to achieve leadership positions in minimizing environmental impact, improving the environmental friendliness of production, and preserving ecosystems.

    As part of the Water of Russia campaign in the Samara Region, employees of Samaraneftegaz, Rosneft’s largest oil producing enterprise in the region, cleaned up a section of the coastline near the Volga embankment in Samara. The enterprise also provides support to municipalities in restoring and improving the infrastructure of natural springs. Oil workers tidied up the territories of springs and natural springs in the Bezenchuksky, Krasnoyarsk, Kinelsky districts and other natural sites. Volunteers from the enterprises of the Samara production site of Rosneft also regularly participate in the ecological expedition Springs of the Samara Region. The goal of the project is to preserve spring water sources, which play an important role in the ecosystem of the region – from providing the population with clean drinking water and feeding reservoirs to maintaining the overall water balance. Thus, with the participation of representatives of the Novokuibyshevsk Oil Refinery, three natural springs were revived and the territory of several springs in remote settlements was improved.

    Volunteers from the Kuibyshev Oil Refinery, together with colleagues from other Rosneft enterprises and activists from the regional movement EcoRavnovesie, cleared 2.5 hectares of the coastline at the confluence of the Volga and Sok rivers of garbage, collected and sent for recycling about five cubic meters of household and current-borne waste – plastic bottles and bags, cans and broken glass.

    Employees of the Novokuibyshevsk Petrochemical Company implement various environmental activities to preserve the cleanliness of the Volga banks and islands, local lakes, natural springs, and coastal areas of the Kriushi and Tatyana rivers. In June, the plant workers held an eco-cleanup day on the Volga bank near the village of Granny. Volunteers cleared 2,000 square meters of the coastline and adjacent forest belt of household waste. The petrochemists also care for Lake Berezovoye in Chapayevsk, where the company’s volunteers hold an annual environmental run. Employees of the Novokuibyshevsk Oil Refinery and the Novokuibyshevsk Oil and Additives Plant, together with activists of the “Movement of the First,” cleared about 6.5 hectares of the Volga coastline of waste.

    In the cities of Buzuluk and Sorochinsk in the Orenburg region, volunteers from Orenburgneft, activists from the Movement of the First, and schoolchildren from Rosneft Classes held a joint environmental campaign on the banks of reservoirs. They cleaned up more than 1 hectare of coastal territory, collecting 10 cubic meters of garbage.

    In Bashkortostan, workers of the Bashneft-Novoil plant removed household waste from almost 22 km of the coast of Lake Aslikul, the largest in the republic. Volunteers helped reduce the anthropogenic load on the ecosystem of the lake, which is very popular with tourists.

    In the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra, RN-Nyaganneftegaz workers cleaned 1.5 hectares of the Nyagan-Yugan River coastline, collecting about three tons of garbage. This is the second environmental action by oil workers on water bodies since the beginning of summer.

    In the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, employees of SevKomNeftegaz and the RN-Service branch, together with representatives of organizations in the city of Gubkinsky, took part in a clean-up day on the bank of the Pyaku-Pur River. During the eco-action, 6.8 tons of garbage were collected and more than six kilometers of coastal territory were cleaned.

    More than a hundred employees of RN-Uvatneftegaz, Tyumenneftegaz, the corporate scientific center in Tyumen, as well as activists of the Movement of the First, came out for an environmental cleanup day at the largest water body in the Tyumen Region – Lake Andreyevskoye. Volunteers cleaned almost 10 hectares of the shoreline and collected about 2.5 tons of household waste. The participants of the action set up a stand on the shore with information about the water body, as well as rare species of birds and animals living in its vicinity.

    In the Leningrad Region, RN-North-West workers carried out a cleanup on the coast of the Gulf of Finland, clearing a section of the coastline of household waste.

    Reference:

    The All-Russian campaign “Water of Russia” has been held since 2014. It is part of the national project “Ecological Well-being”.

    The campaign promotes environmental literacy among the population and attracts the attention of the public and the younger generation to the protection and improvement of the quality of water resources.

    Department of Information and AdvertisingPJSC NK RosneftJuly 29, 2025

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA granted €500 million loan for Energy Transition

    Source: Government of South Africa

    South Africa has been granted a €500 million loan for the implementation of the country’s Just Energy Transition (JET) plan by the German Cooperation via KFW Development Bank (KFW).

    This loan is part of South Africa’s third Development Policy Operation and participants included the World Bank, African Development Bank, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries Fund.  

    “It supports structural reforms to enhance the efficiency, resilience and sustainability of the country’s infrastructure services, with a specific focus on the energy sector and climate mitigation.

    “KFW’s financing forms part of government’s broader efforts to implement structural reforms that strengthen public institutions, crowd in private investment, and improve service delivery across priority sectors of the economy,” National Treasury said on Monday.

    This loan agreement builds on the two policy loans concluded in 2022 and 2023, and forms part of Germany’s pledge at COP26 to support South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). 

    Germany’s three policy loans, implemented by KFW, total €1.3 billion and form part of a larger package of JETP projects supported by the German Government via loans, technical assistance and grants.

    “The Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, [has] highlighted the significance of South Africa’s partnership with Germany and KFW that remains critical to South Africa’s development agenda and marks a significant step towards strengthening South Africa’s short- and medium-term energy security measures, promoting decarbonisation and enhancing the socio-economic benefits of the energy transition for disadvantaged communities, thereby enabling inclusive economic growth and fostering job creation. 

    “The Minister also emphasised the need for further policy and institutional reforms in the energy sector to create an enabling environment for the investment required for a just energy transition,” National Treasury said.

    KFW’s Country Director for South Africa, Cornelia Tittmann, said the loan seeks to support the government of South Africa’s continued commitment to reforms in the energy sector, which give effect to South Africa’s climate commitments and enable the private sector to participate, opening new avenues to strengthen economic cooperation between Germany and South Africa. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK esports collaboration to boost digital and cyber skills

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New UK esports collaboration to boost digital and cyber skills

    The new partnership with International Defence Esports Games will improve Armed Forces digital talent, while an annual summit will focus on education, recruitment and skills, including AI.

    UK military personnel will improve their digital and cyber skills through a new esports collaboration, which will include a focus on AI and drone operation.  

    The Ministry of Defence has appointed the British Esports Federation to deliver a new first-of-its-kind defence and industry esports tournament through UK Strategic Command, soon to be Cyber and Specialist Operations Command.   

    Improving the digital skills of military personnel will help boost the country’s warfighting readiness, with the UK at the cutting edge of defence AI and technology, supporting the government’s Plan for Change. Lessons from Ukraine, including Ukrainian’s producing their own drone simulator games to improve hand-eye coordination, have shown how esports can be used to successfully train drone operators and cyber security specialists.  

    Through the Strategic Defence Review, defence is enhancing its warfighting capability by developing critical cyber skills, and Esports can provide an accessible environment to improve digital literacy and cyber understanding.    

    The International Defence Esports Games (IDEG) will help members of the Armed Forces develop cyber, digital and wider military skills. Initially open to service personnel, including reservists, IDEG will expand to eventually include cadets, veterans, civil servants and anyone working in the defence industry.   

    Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said: [CLEARED]  

    Esports will help attract, develop, and retain top cyber and digital talent, while fostering this government’s Plan for Change. Our people must now be as adept with code, cybersecurity and a games controller as they are with traditional combat skills.   

    From drone operations to data analysis, modern defence and deterrence needs agile minds that can navigate both physical and digital battlegrounds.   

    The International Defence Esports Games is an exciting initiative that will help foster exactly these skills in a fun, collaborative way, and overcome many traditional boundaries between our international partners.

    The inaugural IDEG finals – where competitions would be held – will be organised in partnership with British Esports and a leading esports production company, and be held in the UK in late 2026.   

    The event is being supported by Defence suppliers, including BAE Systems, as well as several smaller military technology companies.  

    Chester King, President, British Esports said:  

    Military esports has been steadily growing in recent years, and today we’re delighted to announce a first-of-its-kind tournament for military personnel around the world.  

    The UK’s armed forces have recognised video games as a positive activity that can improve personnel welfare and morale, foster digital and cyber skills, and strengthen relations across the armed forces and beyond.    

    We’re happy to announce the International Defence Esports Games and support the future of the military.

    Recently the Royal Navy partnered with British Esports to launch an esports facility aboard UK aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, featuring gaming gear from the likes of Alienware, NVIDIA and Intel. Those in attendance included members of the Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore Esports Association (SGEA), the national body British Esports, and Deputy Commander UK Strategic Command, Lt Gen Sir Tom Copinger-Symes, who has been championing esports across UK Defence.  

    Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes KCB CBE, Deputy Commander UK Strategic Command said:  

    Esports and serious games can contribute to our warfighting readiness. As competition and conflict increasingly play out in cyberspace and the digital arena, these games equip our people to think, operate and innovate across both the physical and virtual worlds, developing team coordination and rapid decision-making under pressure.   

    We’ve learned from our Ukrainian partners about how esports can train drone operators and cyber security specialists. People are quickly grasping how esports can change perspectives and enhance skills, as well as reaching across borders with our international allies and partners.     

    For centuries we’ve used ball games like rugby and football to develop teamwork, hone mental and physical fitness and build resilience. Esports perfectly complement these games in preparing us for 21st Century security challenges.  

    To address additional needs for cyber security specialists in Defence, the Ministry of Defence announced the Cyber Direct Entry Scheme, a bespoke entry route for aspiring cyber professionals and those with existing digital skills, which will see new recruit basic training reduced from 10 weeks to around one month, after which recruits will undergo 3 months’ specialist training in the field.

    The news comes just over a year after the MOD recognised esports as an official military sport, ensuring funding and opportunities for personnel to compete. Today’s announcement also represents a deepening relationship between British Esports and the MOD.   

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Since the beginning of 2025, more than 10,000 China-Europe/China-Central Asia freight trains have passed through Xinjiang’s two main railway checkpoints

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    URUMQI, July 29 (Xinhua) — More than 10,000 freight trains on China-Europe/China-Central Asia international freight train routes have passed through the Alashankou and Horgos railway checkpoints in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region as of July 28 since the beginning of 2025, the Urumqi branch of China Railways Corporation (CRC) said.

    According to the data, since the beginning of this year, the number of China-Europe freight trains passing through the two above-mentioned railway border crossings has amounted to more than 50 percent of the country’s total, which reliably ensures the stability and continuity of international supply chains.

    In order to further improve the efficiency of passing through the checkpoint, the railway departments of the XUAR actively coordinated with the Kazakh side the work to optimize the process of translation and verification of documents, reducing the time for checking documents for each train by 15 minutes.

    According to the data, during the reporting period, cargo turnover through the Alashankou checkpoint amounted to 9.778 million tons, an increase of 3.7 percent year-on-year, and the same figure through the Khorgos checkpoint amounted to 7.96 million tons, an increase of 20.3 percent compared to the same period in 2024.

    At present, 124 China-Europe/China-Central Asia international railway freight transportation routes pass through Alashankou checkpoint, covering 21 countries including Germany and Poland. And 89 corresponding freight transportation routes pass through Khorgos checkpoint, covering 18 countries.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: European Health Insurance Card: keeping you safe while travelling abroad

    Source: European Union 2

    Have you ever injured yourself while surfing in France and needed stitches? Sprained your ankle while hiking the Alps? Needed to see a doctor because of your pre-existing diabetes while on holiday in Greece? Perhaps not, but in case something like this does happen while you’re abroad, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has you covered. 

    The EHIC allows you to receive necessary and urgent medical care abroad, including for chronic or existing illnesses, as well as pregnancy and childbirth. It’s not an alternative to travel insurance, and it does not cover any private healthcare costs or planned medical treatments. EHIC is valid in any EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. 

    By presenting the card, you can obtain healthcare services directly from a public or contracted provider under the same conditions and at the same cost as people insured in the country you are visiting. Each country’s healthcare system is different, and services that cost nothing at home might not be free in another country. You can claim reimbursement for the costs you incur from the national institution whilst still in the country and get reimbursement directly there or ask for reimbursement from your health insurer when you get home.

    More than half of the EU population has the EHIC. Applying for one is easy and free – simply contact your health insurance institution before your trip. You’ll typically receive it by mail within a few days. If you’re going to travel before obtaining the card, you can apply for an EHIC replacement certificate.

    Travel with peace of mind, knowing the EHIC is there to support your healthcare needs abroad.

    For more information

    European Health Insurance Card

    How to use the card

    Unplanned healthcare

    Travelling in Europe 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: xSuite Group Receives Great Place to Work Certification

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release xSuite

    Recognition confirms the software company’s commitment to creating an exceptional workplace culture

    Ahrensburg/Germany, July 29, 2025 – xSuite Group, a global software provider specializing in automated business processes, has officially been recognized as a “Great Place to Work®.” The certification is awarded by the international research and consulting institute of the same name and is based on a validated process that assesses a company’s workplace culture.

    To earn the certification, xSuite underwent a thorough review process that included anonymous feedback from employees and an evaluation of its HR practices and programs. The company, which provides innovative SaaS and software solutions—especially in the area of invoice processing within SAP—places strong emphasis on both customer-centric development and the personal and professional growth of its global team.

    “We’re incredibly proud of this recognition—especially because it reflects the positive feedback of our employees both in Germany and abroad,” said Haiko van Lengen, CEO of xSuite Group. “It’s a testament to the strong team spirit that defines our company culture every single day.”

    The survey results speak for themselves:

    • 83% of employees rate xSuite as a “great place to work”
    • 96% feel they have the resources and tools needed to succeed
    • 92% of new hires report feeling welcomed
    • 94% agree that their managers trust them to do a good job without micromanagement

    “Expertise and experience form the foundation of our success,” van Lengen continued. “We strive to grow continuously as a team and to adopt the latest technologies so we can deliver innovative solutions to our customers. We’re particularly proud of our work in artificial intelligence and our ongoing efforts to remain at the forefront of SAP-related innovation.”

    Evelyn Funke, Global Vice President of Human Resources, added: “At xSuite, every single employee plays a vital role in our success—whether through writing code or delivering customer solutions. We take responsibility for our clients’ business processes and the quality of our products. While the company is on a strong growth trajectory, we remain committed to maintaining a family-like atmosphere that encourages creativity and open collaboration. Our informal culture fosters a sense of belonging, allowing everyone to be themselves while contributing meaningfully to the larger mission.”

    About Great Place to Work®

    Great Place to Work® is a global authority on workplace culture, helping organizations develop strong employer brands and gain a competitive edge. Certification is based on a representative and anonymous employee survey and a cultural audit of the organization. The institute surveys over 20 million employees each year across 18,000 companies in 170 countries. The German branch, founded in 2002 and headquartered in Cologne, employs around 100 staff members. It was launched at the initiative of the European Commission as part of the Lisbon Strategy to provide a credible tool for promoting and recognizing effective workplace cultures. www.greatplacetowork.com/.

    About xSuite Group

    xSuite is a software manufacturer of applications for document-based processes and provides standardized, digital solutions worldwide that enable simple, secure, and fast work. We focus mainly on the automation of important work processes in conjunction with end-to-end document management. Our core competence lies in accounts payable (AP) automation in SAP (including
    e-invoicing), for leading companies worldwide, as well as for public clients.

    This is supplemented by applications for purchasing and order processes as well as archiving – all delivered from a single source, including both software components and services. xSuite solutions operate in the cloud or in hybrid scenarios.

    We take pride in the high-quality solutions we offer, as evidenced by the regular certifications we receive for our SAP solutions and deployment environments.” With over 300,000 users benefitting from our solutions, xSuite processes more than 80 million documents per year in over 60 countries.

    Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Ahrensburg, Germany, xSuite has around 300 staff across nine locations worldwide – in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Our company has an established information security management system that is certified in accordance with ISO 27001:2022.

    Press Contact Headquarters:
    Barbara Wirtz
    xSuite Group GmbH
    Marketing & PR
    Tel. +49 (0)4102/88 38 36
    barbara.wirtz@xsuite.com
    www.xsuite.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Bishop of Worcester: 29 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Appointment of Bishop of Worcester: 29 July 2025

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Hugh Edmund Nelson, for election as Bishop of Worcester

    The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Hugh Nelson, Suffragan Bishop of St Germans in the Diocese of Truro, for election as Bishop of Worcester, in succession to The Right Reverend John Geoffrey Inge, following his retirement.

    Background

    After a theology degree at Worcester College, Oxford, Hugh spent 13 years living and working with adults with learning disabilities in one of the L’Arche communities. He trained for ministry at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, was ordained Deacon in 2009 and Priest in 2010, serving his title at The Six group of Churches in the rural area around Sittingbourne in the Diocese of Canterbury. He was appointed Vicar of Goudhurst and Kilndown, also in the diocese of Canterbury, in 2012.

    In 2020 Hugh took up his current role as Suffragan Bishop of St Germans in the Diocese of Truro and was in addition appointed Bishop to the Armed Forces in 2021. Since 2023 he also served as Acting Bishop of Truro until the installation of the Right Reverend David Williams on 17th May.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The city of Birmingham is to pay its final respects to one of its most cherished cultural icons Ozzy Osbourne as his cortege and family visit Broad Street in the city that he loved

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Tuesday, 29th July 2025

    The hearse and accompanying vehicles will slowly make their way down Broad Street from 1pm to the Black Sabbath bridge and bench.

    The hearse and accompanying vehicles will slowly make their way down Broad Street from 1pm to the Black Sabbath bridge and bench, where thousands of fans have left heartfelt messages and floral tributes in recent days. The cortege will be accompanied by a live brass band performance by local musicians from Bostin’ Brass, bringing a final musical moment to honour the extraordinary life and legacy of Ozzy Osbourne.

    The event is expected to draw large crowds as fans gather to say goodbye to the man who helped shape the global heavy metal genre and who proudly carried the spirit of Birmingham throughout his career, whilst allowing his family a chance to see the many memories his loyal fans have left alongside flowers and tributes.

    Ozzy and his fellow Black Sabbath band members were recently given the Freedom of the City on 28th June 2025.

    The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, JP, said: “Ozzy was more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham. Having recently been awarded the Freedom of the City and following his celebrated appearance at the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park earlier this month, it was important to the city that we support a fitting, dignified tribute ahead of a private family funeral. We know how much this moment will mean to his fans. We’re proud to host it here with his loving family in the place where it all began, and we are grateful that they have generously offered to pay to enable this to happen and support the city is giving him the farewell he deserves.”

    Birmingham City Council has worked at pace with its partners over the weekend to coordinate a respectful and safe public event in collaboration with the Osbourne family, who have kindly funded all of the associated costs. The Council would also like to thank businesses and residents in the Broad Street and wider city centre area for their co-operation, alongside support from West Midlands Metro and West Midlands Police, during this important time for the safety of gathered fans.

    Public Information

    • The cortege will travel down Broad Street from approximately 1pm towards the  Black Sabbath Bridge.
    • Broad Street will be closed to through traffic from 7am and buses and trams will be diverted during this time. Local access will be managed where possible but can not be guaranteed. Broad Street will re-open as soon as possible after the event.
    • Stewards will be on hand, and visitors are encouraged to arrive early, use public transport, and follow safety guidance on site.
    • For those not able to make the occasion, the live stream of the Black Sabbath bench will continue to operate and is accessible online.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham to Honour Ozzy Osbourne with Cortege Procession on Broad Street – Wednesday 30 July 1pm

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Tuesday, 29th July 2025

    The city of Birmingham is to pay its final respects to one of its most cherished cultural icons Ozzy Osbourne as his cortege and family visit Broad Street in the city that he loved.

    The hearse and accompanying vehicles will slowly make their way down Broad Street from 1pm to the Black Sabbath bridge and bench, where thousands of fans have left heartfelt messages and floral tributes in recent days. The cortege will be accompanied by a live brass band performance by local musicians from Bostin’ Brass, bringing a final musical moment to honour the extraordinary life and legacy of Ozzy Osbourne.

    The event is expected to draw large crowds as fans gather to say goodbye to the man who helped shape the global heavy metal genre and who proudly carried the spirit of Birmingham throughout his career, whilst allowing his family a chance to see the many memories his loyal fans have left alongside flowers and tributes.

    Ozzy and his fellow Black Sabbath band members were recently given the Freedom of the City on 28th June 2025.

    The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, JP, said: “Ozzy was more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham. Having recently been awarded the Freedom of the City and following his celebrated appearance at the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park earlier this month, it was important to the city that we support a fitting, dignified tribute ahead of a private family funeral. We know how much this moment will mean to his fans. We’re proud to host it here with his loving family in the place where it all began, and we are grateful that they have generously offered to pay to enable this to happen and support the city is giving him the farewell he deserves.”

    Birmingham City Council has worked at pace with its partners over the weekend to coordinate a respectful and safe public event in collaboration with the Osbourne family, who have kindly funded all of the associated costs. The Council would also like to thank businesses and residents in the Broad Street and wider city centre area for their co-operation, alongside support from West Midlands Metro and West Midlands Police, during this important time for the safety of gathered fans.

    Public Information

    • The cortege will travel down Broad Street from approximately 1pm towards the  Black Sabbath Bridge.
    • Broad Street will be closed to through traffic from 7am and buses and trams will be diverted during this time. Local access will be managed where possible but can not be guaranteed. Broad Street will re-open as soon as possible after the event.
    • Stewards will be on hand, and visitors are encouraged to arrive early, use public transport, and follow safety guidance on site.
    • For those not able to make the occasion, the live stream of the Black Sabbath bench will continue to operate and is accessible online.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –