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Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI: Global Net Lease Successfully Closes Third and Final Phase of Multi-Tenant Portfolio Sale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    — Sale of 12 Properties Generates Approximately $313 Million in Gross Proceeds

    — Portfolio Sale Completed; Accelerates Deleveraging Plan and Transforms GNL to Single-Tenant Net Lease REIT

    NEW YORK, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) (“GNL” or the “Company”) announced that it has completed the final phase of its multi-tenant portfolio sale to RCG Ventures, LLC on June 18, 2025, including 12 encumbered properties. This third phase generated approximately $313 million in gross proceeds1, bringing total gross proceeds from the portfolio sale to $1.8 billion2. GNL plans on using the incremental net proceeds from the third phase of the multi-tenant portfolio sale to further reduce leverage by paying down the outstanding balance on GNL’s Revolving Credit Facility.

    The multi-tenant portfolio sale simplifies GNL’s portfolio and sharpens its strategic focus by becoming a pure-play net lease owner and operator. This transition is expected to generate approximately $6.5 million in recurring annual G&A savings, along with additional cash savings from a substantial reduction in annual capital expenditures. GNL also believes the multi-tenant portfolio sale will create significant efficiencies in its operations by eliminating the complexities associated with managing multi-tenant retail properties.

    “The completion of our multi-tenant portfolio sale marks the final step in our evolution into a pure-play single-tenant net lease company with streamlined operations and improved portfolio quality,” said Michael Weil, CEO of GNL. “Divesting these multi-tenant assets has strengthened our balance sheet by accelerating our deleveraging efforts and improving liquidity. We remain focused on achieving an investment-grade credit rating, which we believe will lower our cost of capital and increase our financial stability. We are confident that this strengthened foundation will support continued growth and value creation for our shareholders.”

    About Global Net Lease, Inc.

    Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) is a publicly traded internally managed real estate investment trust that focuses on acquiring and managing a global portfolio of income producing net lease assets across the U.S., and Western and Northern Europe. Additional information about GNL can be found on its website at www.globalnetlease.com. 

    Important Notice

    The statements in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause the outcome to be materially different. The words such as “may,” “will,” “seeks,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential,” “predicts,” “plans,” “intends,” “would,” “could,” “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risks that any potential future acquisition or disposition by the Company is subject to market conditions, capital availability and timing considerations and may not be identified or completed on favorable terms, or at all. Some of the risks and uncertainties, although not all risks and uncertainties, that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those presented in the Company’s forward-looking statements are set forth in the “Risk Factors” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” sections in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and all of its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as such risks, uncertainties and other important factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s subsequent reports. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time, unless required by law.

    Contacts:
    Investor Relations
    Email: investorrelations@globalnetlease.com
    Phone: (332) 265-2020

    Footnotes:
    1 Includes a $210 million mortgage that is being assumed by RCG Ventures, LLC.
    2 Includes $256 million and $210 million mortgages being assumed by RCG Ventures, LLC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Net Lease Successfully Closes Third and Final Phase of Multi-Tenant Portfolio Sale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    — Sale of 12 Properties Generates Approximately $313 Million in Gross Proceeds

    — Portfolio Sale Completed; Accelerates Deleveraging Plan and Transforms GNL to Single-Tenant Net Lease REIT

    NEW YORK, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) (“GNL” or the “Company”) announced that it has completed the final phase of its multi-tenant portfolio sale to RCG Ventures, LLC on June 18, 2025, including 12 encumbered properties. This third phase generated approximately $313 million in gross proceeds1, bringing total gross proceeds from the portfolio sale to $1.8 billion2. GNL plans on using the incremental net proceeds from the third phase of the multi-tenant portfolio sale to further reduce leverage by paying down the outstanding balance on GNL’s Revolving Credit Facility.

    The multi-tenant portfolio sale simplifies GNL’s portfolio and sharpens its strategic focus by becoming a pure-play net lease owner and operator. This transition is expected to generate approximately $6.5 million in recurring annual G&A savings, along with additional cash savings from a substantial reduction in annual capital expenditures. GNL also believes the multi-tenant portfolio sale will create significant efficiencies in its operations by eliminating the complexities associated with managing multi-tenant retail properties.

    “The completion of our multi-tenant portfolio sale marks the final step in our evolution into a pure-play single-tenant net lease company with streamlined operations and improved portfolio quality,” said Michael Weil, CEO of GNL. “Divesting these multi-tenant assets has strengthened our balance sheet by accelerating our deleveraging efforts and improving liquidity. We remain focused on achieving an investment-grade credit rating, which we believe will lower our cost of capital and increase our financial stability. We are confident that this strengthened foundation will support continued growth and value creation for our shareholders.”

    About Global Net Lease, Inc.

    Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) is a publicly traded internally managed real estate investment trust that focuses on acquiring and managing a global portfolio of income producing net lease assets across the U.S., and Western and Northern Europe. Additional information about GNL can be found on its website at www.globalnetlease.com. 

    Important Notice

    The statements in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause the outcome to be materially different. The words such as “may,” “will,” “seeks,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential,” “predicts,” “plans,” “intends,” “would,” “could,” “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risks that any potential future acquisition or disposition by the Company is subject to market conditions, capital availability and timing considerations and may not be identified or completed on favorable terms, or at all. Some of the risks and uncertainties, although not all risks and uncertainties, that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those presented in the Company’s forward-looking statements are set forth in the “Risk Factors” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” sections in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and all of its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as such risks, uncertainties and other important factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s subsequent reports. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time, unless required by law.

    Contacts:
    Investor Relations
    Email: investorrelations@globalnetlease.com
    Phone: (332) 265-2020

    Footnotes:
    1 Includes a $210 million mortgage that is being assumed by RCG Ventures, LLC.
    2 Includes $256 million and $210 million mortgages being assumed by RCG Ventures, LLC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – 23 June – 26 June: Work in Parliamentary Committees

    Source: European Parliament

    In the week of 23 June, most Members’ work will be in Parliamentary Committees. DEVE will exchange views with Bill Gates on “ODA and Innovation: Key Drivers for Health and Living Standards in the Global South” and hear the draft report on “Humanitarian aid in a time of polycrisis.” ECON will debate the Solvency II Review Directive and hold a monetary dialogue with ECB President Christine Lagarde. ECON and BUDG will vote on the Commission proposal to enhance InvestEU and simplify EU rules. IMCO will discuss ongoing investigations into Shein’s alleged breaches of EU consumer law. TRAN will vote on draft reports from the Passengers Rights Package. ITRE will exchange views with Commissioner Jorgensen on a RePowerEU legislative proposal. AFCO will present its draft report on the “Institutional consequences of the EU enlargement negotiations.” Follow the links below to discover this week’s highlights.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA signs US$1.5 billion loan with World Bank

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, June 23, 2025

    The South African government and the World Bank have signed a US$1.5 billion Development Policy Loan Agreement that will assist in unlocking key infrastructure bottlenecks, particularly in the energy and freight transport sectors.

    In a statement on Monday, the National Treasury explained that the loan is aimed at supporting critical structural reforms to enhance the efficiency, resilience, and sustainability of the country’s infrastructure services.

    The loan support is anchored on three key pillars of structural reform: improving energy security, enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of freight transport services, and supporting South Africa’s transition toward a low carbon economy. 

    These reforms are critical enablers of inclusive growth and job creation.

    “This partnership marks a significant step towards addressing South Africa’s pressing economic challenges of low growth and high unemployment. 

    “The financing forms part of the 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.

    The financing terms of the loan are in line with National Treasury’s financing strategy. 

    Specifically, the loan offers both favourable interest rates and flexible repayment terms, contributing to minimising increase in debt service costs.

    The financing terms of the World Bank loan are as follows:

    • Nominal value: US$1.5 billion,
    • Maturity: 16 years with a 3 year-grace period,
    • Interest rate: 6-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus 1.49%.

    “The National Treasury wishes to express its appreciation to the World Bank for its continued partnership and support in advancing South Africa’s development objectives. This agreement reinforces the strong and constructive collaboration between the World Bank and the government of South Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy to boost growth and jobs in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Industrial Strategy to boost growth and jobs in Wales

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business and support tens of thousands of new jobs in Wales.

    The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%   
    • UK Government to establish a centre for doctoral training in semiconductors, led by Swansea University
    • Welsh businesses to benefit from innovation funding, access to finance, faster grid connections and better-equipped sites for expansion. 

    Wales is set for increased economic growth, billions in investment and tens of thousands of new jobs supported over the next decade as a result of the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which is published today (Monday 23 June).  

    The Strategy contains measures to forge a new relationship between business and government, making Wales and the UK the best place to start and scale up a business. 

    It will unlock growth across Wales, targeting areas of strength from the country’s strengths in aerospace in North Wales to the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster in South Wales.   

    More than 7,000 UK businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25%. British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world— in some cases, double the European average, while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Wales is already punching above its weight in many of the growth driving sectors set out in the Industrial Strategy. 

    The key measures for Wales are: 

    • More than £4bn for the advanced manufacturing sector in the UK over the next 5 years. Wales has a leading advanced manufacturing sector with companies such as Airbus based in Broughton in north Wales. 

    • UK Government to establish a centre for doctoral training in semiconductors, led by Swansea University, building on the world-leading cluster based in south Wales.   

    • A Defence Growth Deal cluster to build on Wales’s major strengths. The top five Ministry of Defence suppliers all have a footprint in Wales. 

    • A new British Business Bank champion for the Cardiff Capital Region to connect investors with businesses and kickstart growth. 

    • £30m for a Local Innovation Partnerships Fund in Wales to work with the Welsh Government and Innovate UK to grow innovation.  

    • The National Wealth Fund working with the Development Bank of Wales to identify and secure financing for investment projects in Wales. 

    • Support for the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more. 

    • Strengthened support from the Office for Investment to help identify, shape and deliver strategic investment opportunities across the UK. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

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

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

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

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: 

    Wales has huge potential and our government’s Industrial Strategy will harness the strengths of our businesses and workforce to drive growth and create jobs. 

    The strategy will support key sectors like aerospace and compound semiconductors while developing industries of the future like floating offshore wind where Wales is well-placed to be a world leader. 

    Our modern Industrial Strategy is built to last and make Wales one of the best places to invest and do business. Working alongside Welsh Government we will boost growth, raise wages and create wealth across our country.”  

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

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

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

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

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

    Sarah Williams-Gardener, Chair of Fintech Wales, said:

    We are delighted to see financial services recognised as a key sector in this Industrial Strategy. We look forward to working closely with the Government to help unlock the sector’s full potential. 

    The emphasis on AI and the compute power required to support its development is particularly welcome, as we begin to see generative AI driving innovation across financial services—empowering both providers and customers through the next generation of digital banking platforms.

    Frank Holmes, Founding Partner of Gambit Corporate Finance and Chair of the Cardiff Capital Region Investment Board, said: 

    Today’s announcements mark a timely and important shift towards a connected, strategic approach to economic growth. The renewed focus on industrial strategy and SME finance speaks directly to the opportunities we are unlocking in the Cardiff Capital Region. We have backed innovative and scalable businesses like Whisper TV, showcasing how tailored regional finance can drive job creation, innovation and global reach.  

    The UK’s commitment to extending SME access to finance aligns perfectly with the ecosystem we are building  in CCR as a proven delivery partner and a model for regional economic development.” 

    Louise Harris, CEO of Tramshed Tech in Cardiff, said: 

    The launch of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy is a pivotal moment for our tech and innovation ecosystem. By aligning local strengths with national ambition, this strategy provides a powerful platform for Welsh businesses to grow, attract investment and lead in emerging sectors such as technology, advanced manufacturing, and creative industries.  

    This strategy recognises that innovation isn’t just about technology in isolation – it’s about creating sustainable, high-quality jobs while tackling real-world challenges. This approach will create the perfect environment for startups and scale-ups to thrive, knowing they have both the infrastructure, skills and strategic support to take their innovations from Wales to the world.” 

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

    Investment from private companies is essential to creating new jobs, growing the economy and securing public services. That is why the Strategy will also introduce measures to make it quicker, easier and more profitable for businesses to invest in the UK, with the aim of significantly increasing businesses investment and in key growth sectors by 2035 and helping to create 1.1 million well paid jobs across all corners of the UK. 

    It will realise Wales’ economic potential and raise wages and living standards to a level that the people of Wales deserve.  

    The UK Government’s plans address the main barriers to growth, making it easier and quicker to do business and invest in Wales.  

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes: 

    • Slashing electricity costs by 20-25% to level the playing field for energy-hungry industries like chemicals and key growth sectors like automotive. 

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital.  

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

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

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

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

    Five sector plans have also been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy

    Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change.

    • Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change
    • £670 million in investment to accelerate impact of quantum computers from energy to healthcare
    • Engineering biology researchers in line for £380 million to advance cutting-edge research such as in life-saving medicines and sustainable food

    Innovators driving future technologies like quantum computers to deliver new life-saving medicines and semiconductors powering the next generation of mobile phones are being backed by well over £1 billion to set up and scale up their businesses in Britain, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced.

    Investment will include landmark funding for the UK’s mission to develop quantum computers that could unearth game-changing discoveries for our health and environment, the establishment of a new national semiconductor centre laser-focused on helping firms to scale-up, and new backing for engineering biology researchers working on everything from new vaccines to eco-friendly fuels.

    The package will drive the Digital and Technologies Sector Plan within our modern Industrial Strategy published today (Monday 23 June), a pivotal moment in the government’s agenda for national renewal and in supporting our mission as part of the Plan for Change to deliver the highest sustained economic growth in the G7.

    To ensure the UK is in pole position to make the most of quantum computing’s potential to improve our everyday lives, £670 million will be dedicated to accelerating the application of this revolutionary technology.

    It makes the National Quantum Computing Centre one of the first organisations to receive a 10-year funding settlement, providing long-term certainty to researchers that marks Britain as the place to do business when it comes to cutting edge tech.

    By 2035, the UK aims to develop quantum computers capable of outperforming conventional supercomputers, potentially meaning new drugs for incurable diseases or better carbon capture technologies, supporting our missions of building an NHS that is fit for the future and making Britain a green clean energy superpower as part of the plan for change.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Britain is full of ambitious risk-takers driven by a desire to innovate and improve people’s everyday lives. It is on us in government to match that boldness by investing in our country’s immense potential and embracing businesses who can drive that change and grow our economy.

    From quantum computers that could revolutionise drug discovery and make the NHS fit for the future, to sustainable fuels that can make the UK a clean energy superpower, science and technology has a key part to play in delivering our modern Industrial Strategy to renew our country and support our Plan for Change.

    In engineering biology, a £380 million investment will support researchers working on everything from new life-saving medicines to cell-cultivated meats and climate-resilient crops, to protect our environment and strengthen food security.

    Of this, £184 million will help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and commercial applications through infrastructure supporting innovators to scale up. The remaining £196 million will be invested in research and development through the National Engineering Biology Programme, bolstering the UK’s significant strengths in this field.

    Further initial investment includes:

    The commitment of £54 million to bring the world’s top science and tech talent to the UK. As the UK competes for the highest skilled individuals in priority industries, the launch of the government’s Global Talent Taskforce signals a greater focus on targeting and attracting the brightest and best talent to supercharge growth.

    A new UK Semiconductor Centre, backed by up to £19 million, will serve as a single point of contact for global firms and governments to engage with the UK semiconductor sector, helping our ambitious firms to scale-up, form new partnerships and strengthen the UK’s role in global supply chains – benefiting us all in helping to grow the economy.

    £35 million to scale up the recently announced Semiconductor Talent Expansion Programme – including new chip design courses for students, bursaries, schools outreach, and a proposed master’s conversion course to help more people move into the sector.

    £370 million for cutting-edge, UK-developed technologies to deliver advanced connectivity improving coverage for communities, providing connectivity across transport networks, and supporting defence applications – like drones.

    It includes a £240 million Advanced Connectivity Tech R&D programme, and a further £130 million will go towards strengthening the capabilities of the UK Telecoms Lab, enhancing the security and reliability of our networks.

    Building on a successful round of semiconductor Innovation and Knowledge Centres launched earlier this year, the government is providing funding for 2 additional centres, backed by £25 million.

    £10 million to expand Cyber ASAP supporting 25 academic teams annually, plus £2 million for Belfast’s Cyber AI Hub, aiming to support 28 academic spinouts by 2030.

    £6 million to extend Cyber Runway accelerator, supporting 60 startups annually with mentoring, skills development and networking to improve survival rates and growth.

    £24 million to promote CHERI blueprint adoption for designing secure next-generation chips.

    Find the full modern Industrial Strategy here.

    Notes to editors

    Further funding set out in the strategy includes:

    • Up to £330 million investment through the National Security Strategic Investment Fund for UK security and defence capabilities, plus a second year of the Science and Technology Venture Capital Fellowship to support digital and technology investments.
    • The Sector Plan also highlights AI as a frontier technology, following £2 billion committed at the Spending Review to implement the AI Opportunities Action Plan. The investment reaffirms the government’s commitment to deliver all 50 recommendations outlined in the Plan and underpins the Industrial Strategy’s approach to prioritise frontier technologies with the greatest growth potential.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPIEF-2025: GUU Reveals Secrets of Effective Interaction between Business and Youth

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 21, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the State University of Management took part in the session “Investments in the Future: How Business Inspires and Supports Youth Initiatives.”

    The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Olga Petrova, Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev, heads of higher education institutions and representatives of major companies. The meeting was moderated by Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Pavel Pavlovsky.

    Those gathered discussed mechanisms for cooperation between business and education, the role of educational initiatives in training personnel, and new formats for interaction with young people in modern business.

    Vladimir Stroev spoke about the initiatives being implemented at the State University of Management, which are aimed at supporting and developing social entrepreneurship.

    “The State University of Management has developed a systemic approach to training future entrepreneurs, which begins at school. Thus, we are implementing a program of entrepreneurship classes, in key children’s educational centers, GUU employees conduct a practice-oriented educational intensive “Course on Business and Entrepreneurship”. Together with the united company Wildberries and Russ, we are implementing a project for an online school for future entrepreneurs, a children’s business school. The Olympiad on entrepreneurship is being developed. We believe that one can become an entrepreneur in any sector of the economy, the main thing is to teach the future entrepreneur the key mechanisms and tools.

    One of the most important areas for our university that improves the quality of life of citizens is social entrepreneurship. Thus, GUU has been the operator of the All-Russian competition for social entrepreneurs “My Good Business” for the third year already,” concluded Vladimir Stroyev.

    Taking this opportunity, the rector of the State University of Management invited everyone to the award ceremony for the winners of the competition, which will take place in the Central House of Entrepreneurs in Moscow on July 27.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Development Asia: Cooling Without Warming: Policy Solutions for Asia’s Rising Cooling Demand

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Develop an effective legislative framework for climate-friendly cooling.

    For developing Asia, establishing a robust legislative framework is essential to enable climate-friendly cooling. Best practices from advanced economies, such as the European Union (EU), Japan, and the United States, can inform the development of integrated energy conservation and clean air legislation to support commitments to carbon reduction and the phaseout of high-GWP refrigerants. A strong legislative foundation allows for the phased implementation of more specific policies and measures.

    Within such frameworks, several countries and regions have developed sector-level strategies and action plans. Examples include the EU’s Heating and Cooling Strategy and the PRC’s National Green Cooling Action Plan, which enforce targeted measures and standards. Others have launched directives and programs focused on deploying low-carbon cooling technologies in buildings, households, and appliances, such as California’s Building Energy Benchmarking Program, Home Energy Rating System, and Energy Partnership Program. Some jurisdictions have also integrated cooling sector policies with renewable energy initiatives, such as the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive.

    Improve standards and labeling systems, and enhance compliance with efficiency standards.

    Governments across Asia should consider establishing minimum energy efficiency standards for cooling appliances and phasing out outdated or inefficient equipment. Japan’s Top Runner Program offers a valuable model—setting energy efficiency requirements based on the most efficient product currently available in the market. These standards should be regularly reviewed and progressively tightened. Benchmarking against the most stringent global standards and developing a clear timeline for alignment can help accelerate progress.

    Enforcing a mandatory labeling system is also highly beneficial. Energy labels provide consumers with essential information about the energy performance and refrigerant type of air-conditioning and refrigeration products, enabling more informed purchasing decisions. To be effective, this information should be prominently displayed and easily understood by the average consumer.

    Promote low-carbon cooling in public buildings.

    Governments can support this goal by implementing procurement policies that prioritize low-carbon cooling equipment in the public sector. For example, the government of the PRC maintains a catalog of recommended energy-saving products for government procurement, which includes high-efficiency air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Public institutions are encouraged to prioritize items from this list when purchasing energy-consuming equipment. Regular updates to the catalog are essential to ensure that selected products maintain optimal energy performance and continue to deliver environmental benefits.

    Governments can also introduce policies and pilot programs to integrate renewable energy into public sector cooling systems. For instance, regulations could require that a minimum percentage of available rooftop or surface area on public buildings be dedicated to photovoltaic (solar) power generation.

    Develop incentive policies to encourage behavior change.

    For low-carbon cooling projects that are not yet widely adopted but offer significant social and environmental benefits, governments should prioritize providing incentives and support to scale up their implementation. For example, the Japanese government has promoted the use of low-GWP natural refrigerants as alternatives to HFCs. However, adoption has been limited due to high upfront costs. To address this, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment offers subsidies covering a portion of the machinery and installation costs for companies that replace or install equipment using natural refrigerants, thereby encouraging the transition to more climate-friendly refrigeration technologies.

    Governments should design incentive policies that motivate individuals to adopt energy-efficient behaviors. The PRC, through its Green and High Energy Efficiency Cooling Action Plan, encourages local governments to introduce incentives for purchasing high-efficiency cooling appliances. These may include rebates for energy-efficient products and trade-in programs that allow consumers to exchange low-efficiency appliances for more efficient alternatives.

    Monitor and regulate refrigerants and cooling equipment from a life-cycle perspective

    Governments should require the registration of all stages of high-GWP refrigerant handling, including production, import, sale, and recycling. Additionally, mandatory regular leak inspections and maintenance record-keeping for existing cooling equipment should be enforced.

    Finance large-scale deployment.

    One effective strategy is to establish co-financing mechanisms through partnerships among the public sector, multilateral development banks, and private investors. By leveraging government incentive funds and concessional loans from development banks, these partnerships can unlock commercial capital and reduce financial barriers.

    Creating revolving loan funds dedicated to low-carbon cooling projects can also expand financing opportunities. These funds can provide continuous support for new initiatives by reinvesting repayments into future projects, thereby sustaining momentum and scaling up deployment across regions.

    Take an integrated approach and encourage collective efforts.

    Policy solutions for climate-friendly cooling should be designed as part of a holistic package. This means that regulations, policies, standards, and tools must be coordinated to support and reinforce one another, rather than functioning in isolation.

    For example, under its net-zero emissions commitment, the EU has implemented a suite of interconnected regulations including the Energy Efficiency Directive, Renewable Energy Directive, Industrial Emissions Directive, European Commission-mandated regulations, and governance regulations. These high-level frameworks are complemented by specific policy measures and initiatives that ensure effective implementation and alignment across sectors.

    Build capacity for low-carbon cooling.

    Capacity building and knowledge dissemination are key for promoting energy efficiency improvements. Governments in Asia can take policy measures (e.g., promoting the use of appropriate cost–benefit assessment tools) to help customers understand that the long-term economic losses from using low-efficiency equipment often outweigh the initial investment in high-efficiency alternatives.

    Poor operational management also contributes to unnecessary energy waste. Therefore, capacity-building efforts should focus on equipping users with the skills needed to manage and operate cooling equipment more efficiently.

    It is also necessary to strengthen the capacity of financial institutions to address the financing gaps that hinder the adoption of low-carbon cooling technologies.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week 2025 Set to Drive Investment and Sustainable Growth


    Download logo

    In the fast-changing mineral economy, African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – taking place October 1-3 in Cape Town – is set to become the definitive platform for shaping the future of the African mining industry. Taking place under the theme: From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth, the event will unite the global and African mining industries to engage in dialogue and sign deals. To meet the expected rise in global demand, mineral production will need to increase by nearly 500% by 2050. AMW 2025 positions Africa at the heart of global supply chains, turning policy into progress and opportunity into action.

    A Launchpad for African Mining Projects

    Through its investment-focused program, AMW 2025 will drive capital into African mining projects, connecting players from across the global industry while fostering partnerships, deal-signing and dialogue. The event takes place at a time when the international community is seeking new mineral investment opportunities while African countries are targeting greater production and mineral beneficiation. Notably, Zimbabwe plans to build a $12 billion economy by 2030 on the back of its mining industry; Angola strives to increase diamond production to 17.53 million carats by 2027; while Ghana seeks to deliver 8 million tons of manganese in 2025. Achieving these goals will require substantial investments and AMW 2025 will serve as a launchpad for future projects.

    Addressing Challenges, Highlighting Opportunities

    As the demand for minerals grows, so does the need to integrate technology that enhances efficiency and sustainable mining operations. The AMW 2025 program is designed to tackle the most pressing challenges across the African mining industry, with sessions geared towards creating home-grown solutions to securing capital, technology and expertise. On the financing side, sessions include The Investor Perspective: Financing Africa’s Mineral Industrialization; Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships: Building Resilience in a Consolidating Industry; Innovative Investment Strategies for Nigeria’s Infrastructure Development; and more. Industry spotlight sessions on The Cobalt Opportunity; Botswana’s Diamond Legacy; Ghana’s Gold Renaissance; South African PGMs and more will explore industry-specific opportunities, while a series of technical workshops and a technology forum will outline emerging technologies across the industry. Tech-driven sessions include Autonomous Mining: How Robotics and AI are Revolutionizing Resource Extraction; Youth-Driven Innovations in Mining Technology; From Ideas to Impact; and more.

    Strategic Engagement Opportunities

    Engagement is a feature of the AMW 2025 program, with networking sessions offering attendees the chance to connect with stakeholders and forge collaborative partnerships. The program is tailored to facilitate collaboration, with roundtables focused on bringing global and African partners together. Notable sessions include US-Africa Collaboration on Critical Mineral Infrastructure; China-Africa Corporation on Critical Minerals; European Partnerships in African Mining; Strengthening Middle East and Africa Partnerships, and more. The conference will also host a Women in Leadership Forum, aimed at breaking down barriers for women in the industry by fostering greater collaboration, and a Junior Miners Forum, aimed at showcasing opportunities for youth in the industry. Through networking and matchmaking forums, cocktails and luncheons, business-matching and meetings, AMW 2025 will usher in a new era of collaborative mining development in Africa.

    Navigating Critical Minerals Gaps

    Co-located alongside African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies – hosted on September 29 to October 3, AMW 2025 is uniquely positioned to explore Africa’s emerging role as the center of the global energy transition. Serving as core components in the development of energy transition-related technologies, the demand for critical minerals is growing rapidly. Between 2022 and 2050, the demand for nickel will double, cobalt will triple while lithium demand will rise tenfold. Home to 30% of the world’s critical minerals, Africa is well-positioned to drive this transition. By navigating supply gaps within the critical minerals industry, AMW 2025 will connect international partners to African mines.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: BCC Mining cloud mining supports BTC/XRP one-click mining

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tensions in the Middle East have increased volatility in the cryptocurrency market, and investors are looking for safer ways to hedge their investments. BCC Mining has become a popular investment option with its decentralized nature and high return potential. However, independent mining requires expertise and high upfront investment. The professional BCC Mining platform provides cloud mining services, which reduces the threshold and risk of participation and improves mining efficiency. Investors can easily participate in mining through the platform, share profits, and effectively avoid market risks. In the current complex geopolitical environment, allocating part of the funds to a reliable BCC Mining platform can help diversify investment risks and improve the stability of the overall portfolio.

    What is BCC Mining
    Founded in the UK in 2017, BCC Mining is designed specifically for cryptocurrency novices and experienced investors. Users can use computing power rented from green energy data centers without any hardware to start mining popular cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE, etc.

    BCC Mining is an advanced cloud mining platform that allows users to mine cryptocurrencies and earn passive income by renting computing power. Unlike traditional mining methods that require expensive hardware, technical expertise, and ongoing maintenance, BCC Mining handles all the complexities for users. From hardware maintenance to electricity costs and cooling systems, the platform covers all technical aspects, allowing users to focus on profits.

    How does it work?
    Getting started with BCC Mining is very simple and easy. Once signed up, users can choose from a variety of mining contracts to suit different budgets and investment goals. Each plan offers a specific hashrate and term, providing flexibility for both beginners and experienced investors. Once a plan is selected and payment is made, users do not have to manage anything as the hashrate they rent validates transactions and secures the blockchain network.

    The platform’s automated system ensures that users continue to receive rewards without any extra effort. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or an experienced enthusiast, BCC Mining offers you a seamless way to make money from home.

    Platform advantages:
    ⦁Get an instant bonus of $15 upon registration.
    ⦁High profit level and daily income.
    ⦁No other service fees or management fees.
    ⦁The platform uses more than 10 cryptocurrencies (such as: DOGE, BTC, ETH, LTC, USDC, USDT, BNB, BCH, XRP, SOL) for settlement
    ⦁The company’s affiliate program allows you to refer your friends and get a referral bonus of up to $85,000.
    ⦁McAfee® security protection. Cloudflare® security protection. 100% uptime guarantee and excellent 24/7 human online technical support.

    How to get started:
    It’s easy to start your cloud mining journey with BCC Mining. Follow these simple steps to start earning passive income:

    Register an account: Go to the BCC Mining official website to create an account.

    Choose a plan: Choose a mining plan that meets your goals.

    Start mining: Start mining immediately and let BCC Mining’s powerful hardware work for you.

    Daily payments: Enjoy the convenience of daily payments, providing a stable source of income.

    Special offer:

    Registration bonus: Sign up to get an instant bonus of $15.00, and you can also earn $0.6 for free every day, don’t miss it.

    Invite income: Invite friends to increase mining income and get 3%-4.5% continuous rewards permanently

    The contracts provided by BCC Mining are not only simple, but also varied, providing you with a variety of options to meet your investment needs. They provide stable and risk-free fixed income.

    Get a stable passive income by participating in the following contracts:

    BTC basic computing power: investment amount: $100, contract period: 2 days, daily income of $4.0, expiration income: $100 + $8
    LTC [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $600, contract period: 6 days, daily income of $7.26, expiration income: $600 + $43.56
    BTC [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $3,000, contract period: 20 days, daily income of $42.9, expiration income: $3,000 + $858
    DOGE [classic computing power contract]: investment amount: $5,000, contract period: 30 days, daily income of $75, expiration income: $5,000 + $2,250
    BTC [advanced computing contract]: investment amount: $10,000, contract period: 45 days, daily income of $165, expiration income: $10,000 + $7,425
    After purchasing the contract, the income will be automatically credited to your account the next day. When your account balance reaches $100, you can choose to withdraw to your digital currency wallet, or continue to purchase contracts to gain more benefits.

    Generous Affiliate Program
    BCC Mining rewards those who help promote its excellent platform. Refer others to receive unlimited bonuses and commissions, further boosting your mining income. Take advantage of this opportunity to open up more lucrative income streams.

    Real Success Story
    BCC Mining has successfully helped millions of users achieve financial independence. From individuals seeking to supplement their income to those who aspire to achieve complete financial independence, the platform has proven to be a reliable and profitable solution. Testimonials from satisfied users highlight how BCC Mining has changed their lives by providing a stable source of income with minimal effort.

    If you are looking for a way to earn a stable passive income, after reading this article, you should create an account and take advantage of the $15 welcome bonus, which you can use as an initial investment to earn $0.6 per day for free. In addition, the affiliate program is also a great way to earn passive income.

    Whether you are a novice or an experienced user, BCC Mining welcomes everyone from all over the world to participate.
    For more details, please visit the platform official website: https://bccmining.com/ or (click to download the mobile APP)
    Contact: BCC Mining
    Company: BCC Mining
    Platform official email: info@bccmining.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Danske Bank share buy-back programme: transactions in week 25

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 31 2025

    Danske Bank

    Bernstorffsgade 40

    DK-1577 København V

    Tel. + 45 33 44 00 00

    23 June 2025

    Page 1 of 1

    Danske Bank share buy-back programme: transactions in week 25

    On 7 February 2025, Danske Bank A/S announced a share buy-back programme for a total of DKK 5 billion, with a maximum of 45,000,000 shares, in the period from 10 February 2025 to 30 January 2026, at the latest, as described in company announcement no. 6 2025.

    The Programme is carried out in accordance with Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (the “Market Abuse Regulation”) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016 (together with the Market Abuse Regulation, the “Safe Harbour Rules”).

    The following transactions on Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S were made under the share buy-back programme in week 25:
      Number of shares VWAP DKK Gross value DKK
    Accumulated, last announcement 6,905,843 229.2970 1,583,489,270
    16 June 2025 49,441 260.3803 12,873,462
    17 June 2025 50,000 257.7752 12,888,760
    18 June 2025 88,832 256.1210 22,751,741
    19 June 2025 101,760 254.5391 25,901,899
    20 June 2025 54,462 255.6107 13,921,070
    Total accumulated over week 25 344,495 256.4244 88,336,932
    Total accumulated during the share buyback programme 7,250,338 230.5860 1,671,826,202

    With the transactions stated above, the total accumulated number of own shares under the share buy-back programme corresponds to 0.868% of Danske Bank A/S’ share capital.

    Danske Bank

    Contact: Claus Ingar Jensen, Head of Group Investor Relations, tel. +45 25 42 43 70

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

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Onboards on India’s I4C’s Sahyog Portal to Support Local Law Enforcement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW DELHI, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has officially onboarded onto India’s Sahyog portal, a key interface under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) framework. The portal facilitates direct and structured communication between law enforcement agencies and digital service providers. This development marks an important step in enhancing cooperation between virtual asset platforms and Indian authorities engaged in cybercrime investigations.

    The Sahyog portal serves as a centralized system that allows law enforcement to submit legal requests for data disclosure in accordance with Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. These provisions enable Indian authorities to seek access to digital evidence, user data, and transaction records from service providers in connection with active investigations. Bitget’s integration ensures that future requests can be managed through an established, secure, and legally compliant channel.

    Global exchanges are being actively onboarded onto the Sahyog system to improve investigative capabilities and reduce procedural delays. Alongside Bitget, other major global platforms have also been onboarded onto the Sahyog system in furtherance of the system’s robustness. The main aim is to provide investigators with aggregated access to essential data that supports timely enforcement actions in cases involving virtual assets.

    Bitget has taken multiple steps in recent months  to align with regional compliance frameworks across key jurisdictions, with India representing a particularly strategic market. Participation in official law enforcement portals is a good example of Bitget’s  proactive stance in aligning operations with local regulatory expectations. It aligns with the exchange’s broader aim to assist in creating a transparent and accountable environment for digital asset trading, particularly as authorities globally increase scrutiny of crypto transactions.

    “Operating responsibly in all jurisdictions remains a priority for Bitget. India’s regulatory and enforcement landscape around digital assets is evolving quickly, and aligning with initiatives like Sahyog highlights a practical step forward. Bitget will continue to engage constructively with local regulators to ensure that our systems deliver the legal and technical requirements to support such agencies,” said Hon NG, Chief Legal Officer at Bitget.

    As the global digital asset sector expands, increased engagement between crypto service providers and governments has become important to operate sustainably. Integration into frameworks such as Sahyog allows exchanges like Bitget to deliver timely and structured responses to legal requests, reducing friction in cross-border cooperation and ensuring that law enforcement agencies have access to the tools necessary for digital evidence collection.

    India’s growing emphasis on formalizing its approach to virtual assets has brought renewed focus on the role of foreign exchanges operating within its borders. Compliance with data disclosure provisions and participation in platforms like Sahyog are expected to play an important role in defining the future relationship between crypto firms and national authorities. Bitget’s onboarding adds to the growing list of global entities now accessible via Sahyog, signaling the broader direction of increased regulatory coordination across the industry.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0956e457-f148-4c31-b579-b6261058c890

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officers investigating a fatal collision in Bexley appeal for public’s help

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met is appealing for witnesses after a man was killed and a woman was seriously injured in a collision in Bexley.

    At approximately 23:00hrs on Saturday, 21 June, a car collided with a fence at the junction of Hurst Road with Glenhurst Avenue.

    A 70-year-old man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene by the London Ambulance Service. His next of kin have been informed.

    A 67-year-old woman, who was taken to hospital by London’s Air Ambulance, suffered life-changing injuries and remains in a critical condition.

    The driver – a 26-year-old man – was arrested shortly after the incident for causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He was taken to custody for questioning.

    Detective Sergeant Rob Harris, from the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

    “As our enquiries continue, we are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area at the time.

    “Did you witness the collision? If you think you might have caught any dash cam or mobile phone footage of the incident, or the time leading up to it, please contact the police as soon as possible.”

    You can call 101 or the witness line directly on 0208 285 1574 quoting the reference 8461/21Jun.

    Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain 100% anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Overseas study scholarships open

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund Council is inviting applications for its overseas fellowships and scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year.

     

    The fellowships and scholarships aim to encourage outstanding students to pursue further studies at reputable institutions overseas.

     

    Successful candidates are expected to contribute to Hong Kong and be ready to give back to the community upon graduation.

     

    The fellowships are for studies leading to postgraduate degrees either by research or coursework. The maximum value of a fellowship is $300,000 per year, tenable for up to three years for a doctoral degree or two years for a master’s degree.

     

    The scholarships are for studies leading to undergraduate degrees with a maximum value of a scholarship $280,000 per year, tenable for up to three years.

     

    Applicants are responsible for fulfilling all application procedures and admission requirements of the academic institutions of their choice.

     

    The application period will end on September 5 and shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend interviews in Hong Kong. The first round of interviews is scheduled for December this year or January next year.

     

    Application forms and guidance notes for the applications are available on the Working Family & Student Financial Assistance Agency’s Student Finance Office website.

     

    Applications have to be completed and submitted online at the GovHK website.

     

    Call 2150 6097 or 2150 6098 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Meddelelse om ændring i porteføljeforvaltningshonorar – I&T Globale Aktier ESG Select

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Bestyrelsen i Investeringsforeningen Wealth Invest har besluttet at ændre porteføljeforvaltningshonoraret til Fondsmæglerselskabet Investering & Tryghed A/S for deres porteføljepleje for afdeling I&T Globale Aktier ESG Select.

    Porteføljeforvaltningshonoraret ændrer sig i overensstemmelse med nedenstående tabel:

    Nuværende honorar Kommende honorar
    0,55% 0,75%

    Porteføljeforvaltningshonoraret på 0,75% træder i kraft den 1. juli 2025, og kommer til at medføre en stigning i det løbende omkostningsniveau for afdeling I&T Globale Aktier ESG Select.

    Der vil blive offentliggjort et ajourført prospekt den 1. juli 2025, hvori det pr. den 1. juli 2025 gældende porteføljeforvaltningshonorar afspejles, ligesom den opdaterede løbende omkostningssats for afdelingen vil fremgå.

    Hvis der måtte være spørgsmål i relation til ovenstående, kan der rettes henvendelse til direktøren i Wealth Fund Partners A/S, Lise Bøgelund Jensen, på telefon 3328 2828.

    Med venlig hilsen

    Investeringsforeningen Wealth Invest

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Meddelelse om ændring i porteføljeforvaltningshonorar – I&T Globale Aktier ESG Select

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Bestyrelsen i Investeringsforeningen Wealth Invest har besluttet at ændre porteføljeforvaltningshonoraret til Fondsmæglerselskabet Investering & Tryghed A/S for deres porteføljepleje for afdeling I&T Globale Aktier ESG Select.

    Porteføljeforvaltningshonoraret ændrer sig i overensstemmelse med nedenstående tabel:

    Nuværende honorar Kommende honorar
    0,55% 0,75%

    Porteføljeforvaltningshonoraret på 0,75% træder i kraft den 1. juli 2025, og kommer til at medføre en stigning i det løbende omkostningsniveau for afdeling I&T Globale Aktier ESG Select.

    Der vil blive offentliggjort et ajourført prospekt den 1. juli 2025, hvori det pr. den 1. juli 2025 gældende porteføljeforvaltningshonorar afspejles, ligesom den opdaterede løbende omkostningssats for afdelingen vil fremgå.

    Hvis der måtte være spørgsmål i relation til ovenstående, kan der rettes henvendelse til direktøren i Wealth Fund Partners A/S, Lise Bøgelund Jensen, på telefon 3328 2828.

    Med venlig hilsen

    Investeringsforeningen Wealth Invest

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Suspension i forbindelse med fusion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    I fobindelse med fusion den 27. juni 2025 af Nordea Invest European Small Cap Stars KL, vil handelen i afdelingen blive suspenderet fra og med den 24. juni 2025 til og med den sidste handelsdag den 26. juni 2025.

    ISIN DK0015960983
    Fond European Small Cap Stars KL
    Suspenderingsdato 24. juni 2025 – 26. juni 2025

    Handelen vil ligeledes blive suspenderet i den fortsættende afdeling Nordea Invest European Stars KL fra og med den 26.06.25 til og med den 27.06.25.

    ISIN DK0010265693
    Fond European Stars KL
    Suspenderingsdato 26. juni 2025 – 27. juni 2025

    Med venlig hilsen

    Nordea Fund Management, filial af Nordea Funds Oy, Finland

    Rasmus Eske Bruun

    Filialbestyrer

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Suspension i forbindelse med fusion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    I fobindelse med fusion den 27. juni 2025 af Nordea Invest European Small Cap Stars KL, vil handelen i afdelingen blive suspenderet fra og med den 24. juni 2025 til og med den sidste handelsdag den 26. juni 2025.

    ISIN DK0015960983
    Fond European Small Cap Stars KL
    Suspenderingsdato 24. juni 2025 – 26. juni 2025

    Handelen vil ligeledes blive suspenderet i den fortsættende afdeling Nordea Invest European Stars KL fra og med den 26.06.25 til og med den 27.06.25.

    ISIN DK0010265693
    Fond European Stars KL
    Suspenderingsdato 26. juni 2025 – 27. juni 2025

    Med venlig hilsen

    Nordea Fund Management, filial af Nordea Funds Oy, Finland

    Rasmus Eske Bruun

    Filialbestyrer

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Børsmeddelelse: Børsprospekt samt meddelelse om formue og antal investorer i andelsklasserne Horizon3 Innovation Akk., kl n og Hammers Fonde – Forsvar, kl n under Investeringsforeningen PortfolioManager

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Investeringsforeningen PortfolioManager offentliggør hermed opdateret fællesprospekt.

    Opdateringen sker som følge af, at to nye andelsklasser optages til handel på Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S med første handelsdag den 25. juni 2025.

    Nedenfor findes oplysninger om andelsklassernes investorer, antal udstedte beviser samt formue pr. d.d.  

    Andelsklasse ISIN Antal investorer Antal cirkulerende andele Formue DKK
    Horizon3 Innovation Akk., kl n  

    DK0064081178

    		  

    10

    		  

    45.660

    		  

    4.577.415
    Hammers Fonde – Forsvar, kl n  

    DK0064081418

    		  

    11

    		  

    96

    		  

    96.192

    Prospektet er vedhæftet.

    Henvendelser vedrørende denne meddelelse kan rettes til undertegnede på tlf. 38 42 21 42.

    Med venlig hilsen
    Nina Trolle Boldt, adm. direktør
    Fundmarket A/S

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australian CEOs are still getting their bonuses. Performance doesn’t seem to matter so much

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Denniss, Adjunct Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University

    RomanR/Shutterstock

    Almost all of Australia’s top chief executives are, according to their boards at least, knocking it out of the park in terms of performance.

    That is despite sluggish productivity, persistently high carbon emissions, rising inequality and Australia’s public spending on research and development being among the lowest in the OECD.

    According to new data from the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors, 91% of Australia’s top chief executive officers (CEOs) received some form of performance bonus last year. That elevated their pay well above their base salaries (which were already over A$1 million). Only five CEOs out of 142 eligible for a bonus received zero.

    The fact nearly all of Australia’s top CEOs are receiving these performance bonuses shows performance pay is more about rewarding conformity and discipline than risk-taking and entrepreneurship.

    Do we really believe 91% of our CEOs made big bets that paid off last year? A more plausible explanation is that we simply reward executives for not stuffing up. Their customer base is growing in line with population growth and their prices are rising faster than their cost of production, which means profits rise without too much effort.

    Not keeping up with change

    Take the electricity industry for example. It’s hard to imagine an industry in which change is more inevitable than the industry responsible for transitioning away from gas and coal-fired power stations to renewable energy.

    But according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the electricity, gas and water industry spends a mere 0.24% of sales on research and development each year. That is half the economy-wide average.

    Unfortunately, innovation does not appear to be a prerequisite for CEOs being rewarded with large bonuses. According to Energy Australia, its CEO Mark Collette (base salary over $1 million) recently challenged a room full of other well-paid leaders at Australian Energy Week to continuously ask themselves: “Will this make energy cheaper?”

    However instead of focusing on keeping costs down for consumers, companies have sometimes resorted to misleading statements. Energy Australia recently admitted to misleading customers by claiming the coal and gas-fired electricity it was selling was “carbon neutral”.

    Companies purchase carbon credits to offset emissions elsewhere in their businesses.
    tech_BG/Shutterstock

    Energy Australia was buying widely used carbon offsets to make the claim the fossil-fuel fired electricity it was selling was carbon neutral. In its apology Energy Australia conceded “offsets do not prevent or undo the harms caused by burning fossil fuels for a customer’s energy use”.

    While it is clear Energy Australia’s spending on carbon credits did nothing to make the company’s energy cheaper, it is not yet clear if the board will award a “performance bonus”.

    Leading the world – in pay packets

    Another example of the lack of relationship between CEO pay and organisational performance is Australia’s university sector. The vice chancellors of Australian universities are among the best paid in the world, with over a dozen Australian earning more than the head of Cambridge University.

    But there is no correlation between student satisfaction and vice chancellor pay.

    And while Australian vice chancellor pay has been soaring, Australian universities have been slipping steadily down international rankings for university quality.

    Inequality is rising

    While performance-based bonuses and incentives are common among CEOs and vice chancellors, the same is not true for lower-paid staff.

    Instead, these staff are often asked to “do more, with less” even as their real wages have declined. Universities have seen a notable decline in academic staff per student while the gap between the pay of lecturers and vice chancellors has skyrocketed.

    Extremely high salaries for CEOs and vice chancellors have done nothing to boost Australian productivity growth, or our performance in global rankings for our universities, research and development or innovation. Paying out large bonuses for average performance has done little to help either.

    Inequality in Australia is rising. As long as CEO pay is rising faster than the minimum wages, that gap will continue to widen. The latest data showed CEO salaries are 55 times that of the average worker.

    Just doing their job

    While it is true it is hard to measure the performance of a CEO, it’s also hard to measure the care and attention provided by a childcare worker, the compassion of an aged care nurse, the helpfulness of a call centre operator or the enthusiasm of a lecturer.

    Few CEOs think we need bonuses to motivate the vast majority of Australian workers. But it is heresy to suggest those at the top of a big organisation could simply work diligently without a giant bonus.

    So, it’s not just income that is unequal in Australia. We expect a lot more self-motivation from those at the bottom of the income distribution than those at the very top.

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

    – ref. Australian CEOs are still getting their bonuses. Performance doesn’t seem to matter so much – https://theconversation.com/australian-ceos-are-still-getting-their-bonuses-performance-doesnt-seem-to-matter-so-much-259382

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: 35/2025・Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 35 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 23 June 2025

    Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    On 28 February 2025, Trifork initiated a share buyback program in accordance with Regulation No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (MAR) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052, (Safe Harbour regulation). The share buyback program runs from 4 March 2025 up to and including no later than 30 June 2025. For details, please see company announcement no. 7 of 28 February 2025.

    Under the share buyback program, Trifork will purchase shares for up to a total of DKK 14.92 million (approximately EUR 2 million). Prior to the launch of the share buyback, Trifork held 256,329 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.3% of the share capital. Under the program, the following transactions have been made:

            Number of shares        Average purchase price (DKK)        Transaction value (DKK)
    Total beginning 112,959 88.15 9,957,628
    16 June 2025 1,900 97.64 185,516
    17 June 2025 1,900 97.59 185,421
    18 June 2025 1,900 97.62 185,478
    19 June 2025 1,900 98.49 187,131
    20 June 2025 1,900 97.32 184,908
    Accumulated 122,459 88.90 10,886,082

    A detailed overview of the daily transactions can be found here: https://investor.trifork.com/trifork-shares/

    Since the share buyback program was started on 4 March 2025, the total number of repurchased shares is 122,459 at a total amount of DKK 10,886,082.
    On 25 March, 25 April and 23 May 2025, 4,370 shares acquired through the share buyback program were utilized for the Executive Management’s monthly fixed salary, representing a change from cash payment to payment partly in shares (refer to company announcement no. 1 of 21 January 2025). On 1 April 2025, 19,943 shares acquired through the share buyback program were utilized to serve the RSU plan of Executive Management and certain employees.

    With the transactions stated above, Trifork holds a total of 354,475 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.8%. The total number of registered shares in Trifork is 19,744,899. Adjusted for treasury shares, the number of outstanding shares is 19,390,424.


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

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 35/2025・Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 35 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 23 June 2025

    Trifork Group: Weekly report on share buyback

    On 28 February 2025, Trifork initiated a share buyback program in accordance with Regulation No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (MAR) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052, (Safe Harbour regulation). The share buyback program runs from 4 March 2025 up to and including no later than 30 June 2025. For details, please see company announcement no. 7 of 28 February 2025.

    Under the share buyback program, Trifork will purchase shares for up to a total of DKK 14.92 million (approximately EUR 2 million). Prior to the launch of the share buyback, Trifork held 256,329 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.3% of the share capital. Under the program, the following transactions have been made:

            Number of shares        Average purchase price (DKK)        Transaction value (DKK)
    Total beginning 112,959 88.15 9,957,628
    16 June 2025 1,900 97.64 185,516
    17 June 2025 1,900 97.59 185,421
    18 June 2025 1,900 97.62 185,478
    19 June 2025 1,900 98.49 187,131
    20 June 2025 1,900 97.32 184,908
    Accumulated 122,459 88.90 10,886,082

    A detailed overview of the daily transactions can be found here: https://investor.trifork.com/trifork-shares/

    Since the share buyback program was started on 4 March 2025, the total number of repurchased shares is 122,459 at a total amount of DKK 10,886,082.
    On 25 March, 25 April and 23 May 2025, 4,370 shares acquired through the share buyback program were utilized for the Executive Management’s monthly fixed salary, representing a change from cash payment to payment partly in shares (refer to company announcement no. 1 of 21 January 2025). On 1 April 2025, 19,943 shares acquired through the share buyback program were utilized to serve the RSU plan of Executive Management and certain employees.

    With the transactions stated above, Trifork holds a total of 354,475 treasury shares, corresponding to 1.8%. The total number of registered shares in Trifork is 19,744,899. Adjusted for treasury shares, the number of outstanding shares is 19,390,424.


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

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • Indian stock market trades lower amid Middle East crisis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian equity markets opened on a weak note Monday, tracking negative global cues as escalating tensions in the Middle East weighed on investor sentiment. Early trade witnessed selling pressure across key sectors, including IT and auto.

    As of 9:30 am, the BSE Sensex was down by 677.10 points or 0.82%, trading at 81,731.07. The NSE Nifty declined by 204.60 points or 0.81%, settling at 24,907.75.

    The Nifty Bank index also traded lower, shedding 387.75 points or 0.69% to reach 55,865.10. Meanwhile, the Nifty Midcap 100 dropped 219.45 points or 0.38% to 57,776.05, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 slipped 45.25 points or 0.25% to 18,148.95.

    According to market analysts, the worsening geopolitical crisis—triggered by reports of the US bombing three of Iran’s nuclear facilities—is unlikely to have a deep, long-term impact on the markets unless the situation escalates significantly.

    “If Iran targets and damages US defence facilities in the region or seriously harms US military personnel, Washington’s response could be massive and might aggravate the crisis. However, the current market view is that Iran’s ability to retaliate meaningfully against the US and Israel is limited,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    He added that the closure of the strategic Hormuz Strait would likely hurt Iran and its ally China more than others, reinforcing a market outlook that still supports a “buy on dips” approach.

    Among the Sensex constituents, major laggards included Infosys, HCL Tech, Hindustan Unilever, TCS, Asian Paints, Power Grid, Reliance, and ITC. On the other hand, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharti Airtel, and Trent were among the top gainers.

    Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their buying streak for the fourth consecutive day on June 20, purchasing equities worth ₹7,940.70 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded equities worth ₹3,049.88 crore during the same session.

    “We expect our markets to open lower in reaction to global developments but may attempt to recover from the initial losses. Immediate resistance is seen at 25,222, while support has moved up to 24,800,” said Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities.

    Asian markets also reflected the cautious mood, with indices in Bangkok, Japan, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Jakarta trading in the red. Only China bucked the trend by trading in the green.

    On Wall Street, the Dow Jones closed at 42,206.82 on Friday, gaining 35.16 points or 0.08%. The S&P 500 fell by 13.03 points or 0.22% to 5,967.84, while the Nasdaq declined by 98.86 points or 0.51% to end at 19,447.41.

    — IANS

  • Indian stock market trades lower amid Middle East crisis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian equity markets opened on a weak note Monday, tracking negative global cues as escalating tensions in the Middle East weighed on investor sentiment. Early trade witnessed selling pressure across key sectors, including IT and auto.

    As of 9:30 am, the BSE Sensex was down by 677.10 points or 0.82%, trading at 81,731.07. The NSE Nifty declined by 204.60 points or 0.81%, settling at 24,907.75.

    The Nifty Bank index also traded lower, shedding 387.75 points or 0.69% to reach 55,865.10. Meanwhile, the Nifty Midcap 100 dropped 219.45 points or 0.38% to 57,776.05, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 slipped 45.25 points or 0.25% to 18,148.95.

    According to market analysts, the worsening geopolitical crisis—triggered by reports of the US bombing three of Iran’s nuclear facilities—is unlikely to have a deep, long-term impact on the markets unless the situation escalates significantly.

    “If Iran targets and damages US defence facilities in the region or seriously harms US military personnel, Washington’s response could be massive and might aggravate the crisis. However, the current market view is that Iran’s ability to retaliate meaningfully against the US and Israel is limited,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    He added that the closure of the strategic Hormuz Strait would likely hurt Iran and its ally China more than others, reinforcing a market outlook that still supports a “buy on dips” approach.

    Among the Sensex constituents, major laggards included Infosys, HCL Tech, Hindustan Unilever, TCS, Asian Paints, Power Grid, Reliance, and ITC. On the other hand, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharti Airtel, and Trent were among the top gainers.

    Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their buying streak for the fourth consecutive day on June 20, purchasing equities worth ₹7,940.70 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) offloaded equities worth ₹3,049.88 crore during the same session.

    “We expect our markets to open lower in reaction to global developments but may attempt to recover from the initial losses. Immediate resistance is seen at 25,222, while support has moved up to 24,800,” said Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities.

    Asian markets also reflected the cautious mood, with indices in Bangkok, Japan, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Jakarta trading in the red. Only China bucked the trend by trading in the green.

    On Wall Street, the Dow Jones closed at 42,206.82 on Friday, gaining 35.16 points or 0.08%. The S&P 500 fell by 13.03 points or 0.22% to 5,967.84, while the Nasdaq declined by 98.86 points or 0.51% to end at 19,447.41.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Overseas investment decisions twice as fast

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Minister of Finance David Seymour is encouraged to see overseas investment decisions being made twice as fast following his Ministerial directive letter (the letter) to Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). 

    “Last year I issued a Ministerial directive letter setting out my expectations for faster consent processing timeframes under the Overseas Investment Act (the Act),” Mr Seymour says. 

    “The letter set my expectation that LINZ, the regulator for the Act, will process 80 per cent of consent applications in half the statutory timeframes for decisions. 

    “The financial year beginning 1 July 2024 is on track to meet my expectations. So far, LINZ has been processing 88 per cent of consent applications in half the statutory timeframe. 

    “Since this financial year began, processing times have reduced by 39 per cent faster than the previous financial year. The average timeframe has reduced from 71 working days in the last financial year, to 28 working days this financial year. 

    “The improvements to processing times are largely owed to the new risk-based approach LINZ take to verifying information and streamlining consent processes. This recognises that the majority of consent applications are low-risk and should be processed more efficiently.

    “1 July 2024 to 19 June 2025 saw 122 applications for overseas investment, decreasing from 146 in the financial year prior (both figures exclude ‘only home to live in’ applications). The decrease is explained by a significant drop in applications for residential land development due to poor property market conditions. I expect these numbers to bounce back with the rise of the property market.

    “In order to have a strong growing economy New Zealand needs to be more welcoming to investment. Long waiting times for applications was creating uncertainty and impacting the attractiveness of investing in New Zealand. This affected New Zealand businesses that rely on overseas investment for capital or for liquidity.

    “Since delegating most decision-making to LINZ and directing officials to focus on realising the benefits of overseas investment, there has been a significant improvement in processing times.

    “Feedback from investors has been overwhelmingly positive, and they have welcomed the changes to make the application process more efficient, while still giving the right level of scrutiny to high-risk transactions.

    “LINZ still has the full statutory timeframe to process 20 per cent of consent applications, which will allow them to manage complex and higher-risk applications.

    “This week will see the first reading of thee Overseas Investment (National Interest Test and Other Matters) Amendment Bill as well.

    “The Bill will consolidate and simplify the screening process for less sensitive assets, introducing a modified national interest test that will enable the regulator to triage low-risk transactions, replacing the existing benefit to New Zealand test and investor test. If a national interest risk is identified, the regulator and relevant Minister will have a range of tools to manage this, including through imposing conditions or blocking the transaction. 

    The current screening requirements will stay in place for investments in farmland and fishing quota.

    “New Zealand has been turning away opportunities for growth for too long. Having one of the most restrictive overseas investment regimes in the OECD means we’ve paid the price in lost opportunities, lower productivity, and stagnant wages. This Bill is about reversing that.   

    “For all investments aside from residential land, farmland and fishing quota, decisions must be made in 15 days, unless the application could be contrary to New Zealand’s national interest. In contrast, the current timeframe in the Regulations for the benefit test is 70 days, and the average time taken for decisions to be made is 30 days for this test,” says Mr Seymour.

    “International investment is critical to ensuring economic growth. It provides access to capital and technology that grows New Zealand businesses, enhances productivity, and supports high paying jobs.

    The Bill can be read here: Overseas Investment (National Interest Test and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 171-1 (2025), Government Bill Contents – New Zealand Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Applications open for Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fellowships and Scholarships for Overseas Studies 2026/27

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund Council:

    The Sir Edward Youde Memorial (SEYM) Fund Council announced today (June 23) that applications for the SEYM Fellowships and Scholarships for Overseas Studies and the SEYM Overseas Fellowship/Scholarship for Disabled Students for the 2026/27 academic year are now open. The closing date for applications is September 5, 2025.

    The fellowships and scholarships aim at encouraging outstanding students to pursue further studies in renowned institutions overseas. Awardees should aspire to contribute to Hong Kong and be ready to give back to the community upon graduation.

    The fellowships are for overseas studies leading to postgraduate degrees either by research or coursework. The maximum value of a fellowship is HK$300,000 per year, tenable for up to three years for a doctoral degree or two years for a master’s degree. The scholarships are for overseas studies leading to undergraduate degrees. The maximum value of a scholarship is HK$280,000 per year, tenable for up to three years.

    The applicants will be responsible for fulfilling all application procedures and admission requirements of the academic institutions of their choice.

    Information notes for the applications are available on the website of the Student Finance Office of the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency (www.wfsfaa.gov.hk/en/resources/forms/form.htm). Applicants should submit the completed form through the GovHK website (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/sfo031/en/). For details, please visit the website of the Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund (www.wfsfaa.gov.hk/sfo/seymf/en/whatwedo/index.htm), or call (852) 2150 6097 or (852) 2150 6098.

    Shortlisted applicants of the Fellowships and Scholarships for Overseas Studies will be invited to attend interviews in Hong Kong. The first round of interviews is scheduled for December 2025 or January 2026. If found suitable, applicants will be invited for a final interview to be held in January or February 2026. For the Overseas Fellowship/Scholarship for Disabled Students, shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview in Hong Kong in January or February 2026.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Hong Kong Investment Funds Association 18th Annual Conference (English only) (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Hong Kong Investment Funds Association 18th Annual Conference today (June 23):

    Sam (Chairman of the Hong Kong Investment Funds Association (HKIFA), Mr Sam Yu), Your excellency Mr El-Kuwaiz (Chairman of the Capital Market Authority of Saudi Arabia, Mr Mohammad El-Kuwaiz), Consul General Mr Alhimali (Consul General of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong, Mr Mazin Hamad Mohamad Alhimali), Kelvin (Chairman of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), Dr Kelvin Wong), Eddie (Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Mr Eddie Yue), Julia (Chief Executive Officer of the SFC, Ms Julia Leung), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Budget supports more homes for Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    • This article outlines the various measures being supported by the Budget.

    The 2025-26 ACT Budget supports the delivery of more homes for Canberrans.

    Practical initiatives will:

    • boost supply
    • increase affordability
    • deliver diverse housing to suit different stages of life.

    As well as investing in affordable homes now, the Budget lays the foundations for more equitable housing in future.

    Key initiatives include:

    • an increase to the stamp duty concession threshold to above $1 million for all eligible purchasers
    • 85 new public housing dwellings delivered through community housing providers under the Housing Australia Future Fund Facility (HAFFF)
    • additional funding for the Affordable Housing Project Fund
    • 300 affordable Build-to-Rent homes
    • seven new social housing townhouses acquired in Coombs under the Social Housing Accelerator
    • ongoing investment in the Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program to maintain and expand Canberra’s public housing portfolio.

    Stamp duty concessions

    Stamp duty concessions will be expanded.

    This makes it easier for Canberrans to enter the market and find a home that suits their needs.

    From 1 July 2025, the Government will also increase the price threshold for the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, the Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme and the Disability Duty Concession Scheme.

    Price thresholds will be indexed annually to the Canberra Consumer Price Index. In 2025-26, the threshold will be $1.02 million.

    In 2025–26, eligible Canberrans looking to buy a new apartment, townhouse or a unit-titled property off-the-plan or in a suburban area (RZ1) for $1.02 million or less may be exempt from paying stamp duty.

    This exemption aims to support development of dual occupancy properties on RZ1 blocks, contributing to more housing choice, access and affordability in our suburbs.

    Reducing stamp duty will help to lower barriers to Canberrans seeking to fulfil their goal of home ownership.

    Boosting the housing supply pipeline

    The ACT Government is committed to enabling 30,000 new homes by 2030.

    This is in partnership with the Australian Government.

    Budget investment will kickstart a significant pipeline of new housing.  A range of policy initiatives and industry incentives will support this.

    The Housing Supply and Land Release Program

    • The release of Government land will support nearly 26,000 homes over the next five years.
    • Direct investment will build social and affordable housing.
    • It’s expected new planning reforms will allow thousands more homes to be delivered on leased land.

    Housing where and how Canberrans want to live

    Budget investment will make it easier for people to find the home they need.

    It will help Canberrans at all stages of life, whether they’re buying their first home, raising a family, ageing in place, or in need of supported housing.

    This includes:

    • direct investment in new social and affordable homes
    • modernising the planning system to support medium-density supply
    • targeted reforms to improve fairness and choice in the housing market.

    Streamlining planning in the ACT

    The ACT Government is also continuing the planning work needed to ensure Canberra grows in a smart, inclusive and sustainable way.

    This includes:

    • planning for new housing and community facilities in well-located areas. This applies particularly to those around town centres, local shops and public transport corridors.
    • funding to support the Construction Productivity Agenda for the ACT of the new Planning Act. This is aimed at streamlining approvals and making things clearer for developers and the community.

    Supporting apprentices in the construction industry

    The ACT Government is also investing in construction skills and trades and productivity.

    The Budget supports an increase to apprenticeship subsidies for training in six key construction trades.

    Subsidies will rise to 90 per cent. This increase builds on existing investment in electrotechnology apprenticeships.

    Investing in industry training will shape the workforce needed to build more homes.

    Developing a future construction workforce

    The ACT Government is also investing in measures to further build the workforce needed to meet housing targets. These include:

    • an increase in training subsidies to 90 per cent for carpenters, plumbers, tilers, bricklayers and other critical construction trades
    • the Try-a-Trade program in ACT public high schools to support more young women to enter the construction industry
    • a $250 cost-of-living payment to apprentices and trainees
    • an extra $250 for first-year apprentices and trainees. This complements the $10,000 payments available under the Commonwealth’s residential construction training incentive.

    The Government will also continue to progress missing middle housing reforms, as well as supporting more well-located homes close to transport, services and jobs.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Instant retail reshapes consumption habits in China, driving new growth

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

    In the charming countryside of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Alex Turner, a British expat, made a few taps on his phone as he hobbled back to his guesthouse, careful not to knock the toe he had just hurt while out for a hike. In just 30 minutes, a sealed yellow paper bag arrived at his doorstep.

    “I bought a nail clipper and some first-aid stuff to deal with the injury,” said Turner. “And I also bundled some dental floss and mosquito repellent for a bigger discount.”

    This prompt service epitomizes China’s rapidly growing instant retail sector. E-commerce giants like Alibaba, JD.com, and Meituan have all placed significant bets on a new model centered around the concept of “everything can be delivered within 30 minutes.” As more and more consumers in China turn to smartphone apps for everything from groceries to medical supplies, instant, or “flash,” delivery has become a game-changer to daily life.

    A recent report by MoonFox Data, a leading Chinese data insights provider, shows that China’s instant retail sector reached 780 billion yuan (about 108.8 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024 and is projected to exceed 2 trillion yuan by 2030. Platforms run by Alibaba, JD.com and Meituan are fueling this growth by catering to consumers’ increasing demand for instant gratification.

    “Today’s consumers prioritize speed and accessibility above all,” said Zhao Feng, dean of the school of business administration at Guangxi University of Finance and Economics. “The promise of half-hour delivery is not just a marketing ploy — it’s a game-changer. It taps into consumers’ desire for convenience, reduces the hassle of shopping, encourages impulse buying, and ultimately drives up overall spending.”

    A study by consultancy firm Accenture shows that over half of consumers born after 1995 expect same-day delivery for their purchases and are more willing to pay a premium for faster shipping.

    For Li Wei, a personal trainer in Nanning, Guangxi’s capital city, the speed of instant retail eliminates the need to plan ahead.

    “I don’t have to stock up on toilet paper, snacks or energy drinks anymore,” said Li. “With a few clicks on my phone, the groceries will be here before I can second-guess myself.”

    The appeal extends beyond on-demand convenience as many cost-conscious shoppers chase discounts and enjoy the thrill of snagging a deal.

    “Sometimes, it goes beyond the convenience,” said Zhang Chaozhen, a postgraduate student at Guangxi University as she scrolled through an app during her lunch break, hunting for the steepest discounts on a skincare product. “It’s about getting a deal and feeling smart about it.”

    Behind the scenes, the explosive wave of instant retail is reshaping supply chain logistics, fostering a deeper connection between online platforms and brick-and-mortar stores.

    Unlike traditional e-commerce, which typically depends on a few centralized warehouses, instant retail platforms utilize advanced AI to connect hundreds of local stores with a vast network of strategically placed, highly automated micro-warehouses.

    These facilities are designed to process retailer orders efficiently, expedite inventory shipment, and prevent the accumulation of excess “wrong” products in stores, according to Zhou Yimu, an industry insider and brand manager of Guishuangbai, a local convenience store chain in Guangxi.

    In late May, Alibaba reported that its flash delivery platform has logged a daily order volume exceeding 40 million in less than one month since its official launch.

    The model of instant retail unleashes a “triple wins” dynamic as the digital platforms gain access to a vast network of inventory, retailers boost sales through online channels, and consumers enjoy faster delivery and broader product selections, said Liu Yuanshuai with Chaoyigou, a supermarket chain that specializes in instant retail business in Guangxi.

    “Partnering with those instant retail platforms has been the revenue booster,” said Tao Zhaogui, a manager at a chain pharmacy in Nanning. “Before, we largely relied on walk-in customers, but now, with the round-the-clock access to online prescriptions, our online orders have increased by 41 percent year on year.”

    However, the rapid growth of the sector has also raised concerns about consumer rights. Some platforms are accused of exploiting big data to engage in “discriminatory pricing,” adjusting prices based on individual consumers’ purchase histories, according to Tang Yating, a lawyer specializing in civil and commercial law. Additionally, after-sales services often fall short, with cumbersome return and exchange policies that remain unresolved. There is also a tendency for platforms and sellers to shirk responsibility.

    “Stronger oversight is the key,” said Tang. “Clear regulations must safeguard consumer interests within this rapidly evolving sector by ensuring transparency and accountability in pricing and service.” 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 23, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 23, 2025.

    Illegal US attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities came in spite of no evidence
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem Kia ora koutou, I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground. The US struck three of Iran’s nuclear facilities overnight, entering the illegal aggression on Iran with heavy airstrikes despite no

    My kids only want to eat processed foods. How can I get them eating a healthier and more varied diet?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nick Fuller, Clinical Trials Director, Department of Endocrinology, RPA Hospital, University of Sydney If it feels like your child’s diet consists entirely of breakfast cereal, chicken nuggets and snacks that’d outlast the apocalypse, you’re not alone. Processed foods are the go-to for many kids, and for some,

    Defence Force to send plane to assist New Zealanders stranded in Iran and Israel
    By Giles Dexter, RNZ News political reporter The Defence Force is sending a plane to the Middle East to assist any New Zealanders stranded in Iran or Israel. The C-130J Hercules, along with government personnel, will leave Auckland on Monday. Airspace is still closed in the region, but Defence Minister Judith Collins said the deployment

    Trump’s decision to bomb Iran exposes fissures in US politics
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lester Munson, Non-Resident Fellow, United States Studies Centre, University of Sydney US President Donald Trump’s strike on Iran’s nuclear weapons program, which he foreshadowed on and off for the past few days, has revealed a surprisingly broad middle ground in US politics, even as it has provoked

    Leaders in US-affiliated Pacific react to surprise strikes on Iran
    By Mark Rabago, RNZ Pacific Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas correspondent Leaders in the US-affliliated Pacific Islands have reacted to the US strikes on Iran. US president Donald Trump said Iran must now make peace or “we will go after” other targets in Iran, after US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said

    Global warming is changing cloud patterns. That means more global warming
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christian Jakob, Director, ARC Centre of Excellence for the Weather of the 21st Century, Monash University Caleb Weiner / Unsplash At any given time, about two-thirds of Earth’s surface is covered by clouds. Overall, they make the planet much cooler than it would be without them. But

    NZ’s changing diet: Māori bread and jackfruit join other new foods in the country’s nutritional database
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nick William Smith, Associate Investigator in Nutritional Science, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University Shutterstock/Alesia Bierliezova The latest update to the New Zealand food composition database, a comprehensive collection of nutrient data collated jointly by Plant & Food Research and the Ministry of Health, brings more

    How pregnant women are tested for gestational diabetes is changing. Here’s what this means for you
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexis Shub, Obstetrician & Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist, The University of Melbourne How Australian pregnant women are tested for gestational diabetes is set to change, with new national guidelines released today. Changes are expected to lead to fewer diagnoses in women at lower risk, reducing the burden

    Freak wind gusts made worse by climate change threaten airline passenger safety
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milton Speer, Visiting Fellow, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney Unexpected severe turbulence injured crew and passengers on a Qantas Boeing 737 during descent at Brisbane on May 4 2024. The subsequent Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation suggested the severity of the turbulence

    Labubu plushies aren’t just toys. They’re a brand new frontier for Chinese soft power
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ming Gao, Research Fellow of East Asia Studies, Lund University Katerina Elagina/Shutterstock One of the most sought-after items of 2025 isn’t a designer handbag or the latest tech gadget. It’s a plush elf with a snaggle-toothed grin. Labubu (拉布布) is a global sensation. From David Beckham and

    Pro-independence advocates urge MSG to elevate West Papua membership
    By Scott Waide, RNZ Pacific PNG correspondent Two international organisations are leading a call for the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) to elevate the membership status of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) at their upcoming summit in Honiara in September. The collective, led by International Parliamentarians for West Papua (IPWP) and International Lawyers

    Starving Gaza civilians toll climbs at Israeli humanitarian ‘death traps’
    Pacific Media Watch BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem Kia ora koutou, I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground. Israeli forces killed over 200 Palestinians in Gaza over the last 48 hours, injuring over 1037. Countless

    NZ group slams Israeli ‘hoodwinking’ of US over nuclear strikes – Peters calls for talks
    Asia Pacific Report The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa has called on New Zealanders to condemn the US bombing of Iran. PSNA co-chair Maher Nazzal said in a statement that he hoped the New Zealand government would be critical of the US for its war escalation. “Israel has once again hoodwinked the United States into fighting

    The US has entered the Israel-Iran war. Here are 3 scenarios for what might happen next
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Parmeter, Research Scholar, Middle East Studies, Australian National University After prevaricating about whether the United States would enter Israel’s war on Iran, President Donald Trump finally made a decision. Early Sunday, US warplanes struck three of Iran’s nuclear sites at Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow, where the

    What is a ‘bunker buster’? An expert explains what the US dropped on Iran
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Dwyer, Lecturer, School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania The jagged silhouette of a B2 stealth bomber seen during a 2015 flyover in the US. Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images Late on Saturday night, local time, the United States carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear enrichment

    Muted response from Albanese government on US attack on Iran
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Albanese government has given a tepid response to the United States’ bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities. The Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement from a government spokesperson, but there were no plans on Sunday afternoon for Anthony Albanese or

    What is a ‘bunker buster’? An expert explains what the US dropped on Iran – and what might happen now
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Dwyer, Lecturer, School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania The jagged silhouette of a B2 stealth bomber seen during a 2015 flyover in the US. Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images Late on Saturday night, local time, the United States carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear enrichment

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –