Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Developing panda tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is a question by the Hon Chan Yung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (June 11):
     
    Question:
     
    There are views that the official public debut of Hong Kong’s first pair of locally born giant panda twins, elder sister Jia Jia and little brother De De, has sparked a new wave of “panda fever” in the city, which is currently home to six giant pandas, and the authorities should seize this opportunity to develop the panda tourism industrial chain, promote the growth of the panda tourism and related industries in Hong Kong. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) since Hong Kong became home to six giant pandas, whether the authorities have compiled statistics on the direct economic benefits they have brought to Ocean Park; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) whether the authorities have compiled statistics on the direct and indirect economic benefits brought to Hong Kong as a whole by the six giant pandas respectively (including the sales of panda merchandise and revenue growth across various trades and industries); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) whether the Government has further plans for the future to promote the healthy and sustainable development of the panda tourism and related industries in Hong Kong, e.g. Ocean Park’s subsequent plans to optimize facilities and services, as well as budget arrangements, or plans to develop the panda tourism industrial chain in collaboration with various trades and industries; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The reply to the questions raised by the Hon Chan Yung is as follows:

    The giant pandas An An and Ke Ke made their debut on December 8, 2024 at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures at Ocean Park, followed by the debut of the pigeon pair of giant panda twin cubs Jia Jia and De De on February 16, 2025 at the “Giant Panda Adventure” of the park. They have been well received by both locals and visitors, and Ocean Park’s attendance has since then increased by around 19 per cent over the same period last year. Together with giant pandas Ying Ying and Le Le, the Hong Kong giant panda family has brought additional revenue to Ocean Park by way of admission tickets, merchandise, etc. The Ocean Park Corporation’s overall financial performance for its Financial Year (FY) 2024-25, including the revenues on admission, food and beverages as well as merchandise in the same FY, will be reported in its 2024-25 Annual Report.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Strengthening rural areas in the EU through cohesion policy – 11-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Rural areas are home to 25 % of people in Europe and occupy 83 % of the EU’s territory. They face a number of economic, social, demographic and structural challenges that hinder their economic growth and development. With the appropriate policy and financial tools, rural areas will be able to explore their full potential and move to a situation of sustainable long-term growth. In June, Parliament is due to consider an own-initiative report on strengthening rural areas through cohesion policy.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Montenegro – 11-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Montenegro began EU accession negotiations in 2012. In April 2023, after securing 59 % of votes in a presidential election run-off, Montenegro’s pro-European former Economy Minister Jakov Milatović declared victory over the incumbent, Milo Đukanović, who had been president or prime minister for more than three decades. The current Prime Minister, Milojko Spajić, leader of the political party ‘Europe Now!’, took office in October 2023. The European Commission’s latest report notes that the government has accelerated preparations on EU accession. Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) adopted its report on the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Montenegro on 13 May 2025. A debate and vote on the report are due to be held in plenary in June.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Texas Holds Three of the Top Five Destination Cities for Consumer Migration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Americans who relocated in 2024 sought out new locales, with the three most popular locations in the state of Texas—North Houston, Fort Worth and Austin. Overall, consumers left pricier and densely populated urban areas in favor of more affordable cities and suburbs in the southern U.S., according to TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) research focused on migration and its implications for insurers.

    While migration rates have decreased steadily since pre-pandemic 2019, a significant number of consumers are making bold moves. More than a quarter (26%) of Americans who moved in 2024 relocated by distances ranging from 51 miles to 250 miles and beyond.

    “As consumers continue to find new places to settle, it’s important for insurers to stay on top of the trends across segments,” said Patrick Foy, senior director of strategic planning for TransUnion’s Insurance business. “These changes can have implications for customer acquisition, risk and engagement.”

    Top Five Inbound and Outbound Markets in 2024

    Inbound Outbound
    North Houston, TX Miami, FL
    Fort Worth, TX Houston, TX
    Austin, TX Queens, NY
    Phoenix, AZ South Florida, FL
    Nashville, TN Oakland, CA


    Gen Z goes against the grain

    The research found migration trends among consumers aged 30 and older largely held true. The majority left locales like New York, Chicago and Miami, with some slight variations in where they ended up. Baby Boomers and Silent Generation consumers primarily moved to smaller locales in South Carolina and Florida. Gen Xers also moved to those states, but Texas was their top destination. Millennials seemed to avoid Florida, instead dispersing across suburban markets Texas and North Carolina.

    However, many Gen Z consumers moved in the opposite direction, landing in the same cities older Americans were leaving, like New York and Chicago.

    “Gen Z’s migration patterns more closely reflect those of Millennials back in 2010,” said Foy. “And they are likely going for the same reasons: the allure of big city living and the prospect of work opportunities to help launch their careers.”

    Staying connected to life insurance beneficiaries
    When consumers move across state lines, public records do not always update accordingly. This can create problems for life insurance providers who then may not be able to locate a beneficiary or receive notification of death for their policyholder.

    The majority of states require life insurers to monitor mortality status of policy holders and to conduct due diligence to contact beneficiaries. However, over recent years the federal government has limited access to the Social Security Death Master File (SS DMF). Those records now account for only 12% of TransUnion’s deceased file data—compared to 2010 when they accounted for 95%. 

    Additionally, nearly six out of 10 consumers don’t even know how to find out if they are the beneficiary of a life insurance policy. This is underscored by the fact that each year tens of millions of dollars in life insurance payments go unmatched with beneficiaries.1

    TransUnion’s TruLookup™ Deceased Data utilizes multiple sources, including TransUnion proprietary data, obituary data, funeral home listings, state level sources, and more. Insurers who rely solely on the SS DMF are at a significant disadvantage for uniting benefits to beneficiaries.

    “Life insurance companies that rely on public records alone will likely fail to deliver on their promise to customers,” said Karen Malone, senior director of strategic planning for TransUnion’s life insurance business. “They need a robust identity solution to give them real time updates on the status of their insureds and the location of their beneficiaries.”

    Understanding a driver’s risk
    Similarly, when a consumer with prior traffic violations moves to a new state or receives a traffic violation outside of their license state, their motor vehicle report (MVR) does not always capture those events.

    Prior TransUnion research found that violations increased by 8% in 2024 compared to 2023—their highest point since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. The study highlighted the strong correlation between traffic enforcement and roadway safety, along with reaffirming the power of violation data to predict future insurance losses.

    TransUnion research notes that auto insurers should look beyond MVRs and investigate court records when assessing the risk of a new customer as they are less expensive than MVRs and provide a more comprehensive history. In addition, traffic violations have reached their highest point since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, suggesting there are increasingly more insights into drivers’ behavior on the road.

    Learn more about TransUnion Insurance Risk solutions, including TruVision™ Driving History, here.
    Learn more about TransUnion solutions for life insurance here.

    1. “What to Know About Life Insurance Beneficiaries,” National Association of Insurance Commissioners, September 12, 2023

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)
    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world. http://www.transunion.com/business

    Contact Dave Blumberg
    TransUnion
       
    E-mail david.blumberg@transunion.com
       
    Telephone 312-972-6646

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Sunrun’s Distributed Power Plant Capacity Surpasses 650 Megawatts, Ready to Support Grid Reliability Ahead of Summer Heat and Hurricanes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sunrun (Nasdaq: RUN), the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, today announced that it is activating more than 130,000 home batteries, representing over two-thirds of Sunrun’s total battery fleet, to support America’s power grid this summer. In its grid service programs, Sunrun has the capability of dispatching 650 megawatts of peak power—enough to power 480,000 homes, or a city the size of Austin, Texas—at critical times every day to help meet America’s skyrocketing demand for electricity.

    “America is entering a period of insatiable, hockey-stick energy demand driven by manufacturing, data centers, and AI,” said Sunrun CEO Mary Powell. “Sunrun’s laser focus on pairing storage with solar puts us in a position to rapidly bring new generating capacity online to stabilize the grid and help lead the nation toward energy independence.”

    Sunrun’s storage-first strategy has placed the company among the top five energy storage operators nationwide, with nearly a gigawatt of total battery capacity installed—the equivalent of a nuclear power plant’s worth of peak power. Sunrun is the largest distributed battery power plant provider and operator in the world. In the first quarter of this year, Sunrun’s storage attachment rate surged to nearly 70% of new solar customers. The company accounts for roughly half of all new home battery installations in the country.

    Sunrun’s dispatchable power plants recently provided hundreds of megawatts of peak power to the grid in several states:

    • Texas: Sunrun dispatched essential energy during unseasonably hot temperatures, providing cost control to all customers of two retail electricity providers.
    • Arizona: Arizona Public Service called on Sunrun for three consecutive days to dispatch essential energy during unseasonably hot temperatures.
    • California: Sunrun’s statewide residential battery power plant dispatched an average of more than 300 megawatts during a recent two-hour peak load window.
    • New York: Orange and Rockland Utilities activated Sunrun’s residential battery power plant—the largest in the state—several times so far this year to relieve grid stress.
    • Puerto Rico: In response to capacity shortfalls from centralized power plants, the island’s utility provider, LUMA, asked Sunrun to dispatch stored solar energy during 26 emergency power events since January.

    As the U.S. prepares for energy demand spikes and rising temperatures, utilities and grid operators are actively planning future battery dispatches to help stabilize the grid and improve reliability. Notably, Orange and Rockland and LUMA have already asked Sunrun to prepare emergency dispatches as both service areas brace for unusually high temperatures.

    In partnership with electric utilities across the country, Sunrun operates 17 dispatchable power plant programs that improve reliability and help prevent blackouts. With the unique ability to deploy utility-scale battery capacity within months, Sunrun delivers critical grid services with unmatched speed. These programs also help utilities avoid or defer transmission and distribution investments, saving money for all families connected to the grid.

    Sunrun’s subscription model is key to its ability to aggregate, manage, and dispatch hundreds of thousands of home batteries to improve grid reliability. The 48E investment tax credit enables the construction of this grid infrastructure to quickly address America’s looming electricity supply crisis.

    About Sunrun
    Sunrun Inc. (Nasdaq: RUN) revolutionized the solar industry in 2007 by removing financial barriers and democratizing access to locally-generated, renewable energy. Today, Sunrun is the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, offering residential solar and storage with no upfront costs. Sunrun’s innovative products and solutions can connect homes to the cleanest energy on earth, providing them with energy security, predictability, and peace of mind. Sunrun also manages energy services that benefit communities, utilities, and the electric grid while enhancing customer value. Discover more at www.sunrun.com

    Media Contact
    Wyatt Semanek
    Director, Corporate Communications
    press@sunrun.com

    Investor & Analyst Contact
    Patrick Jobin
    SVP, Deputy CFO & Investor Relations Officer
    investors@sunrun.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: OSS’s BRESSNER Receives the 2024 EMEA Growth Partner of the Year Award from Digi International

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ESCONDIDO, Calif., June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One Stop Systems, Inc. (OSS or the Company) (Nasdaq: OSS) today announced that its subsidiary, BRESSNER Technology GmbH, a leading specialized high-performance computing supplier in Europe, has been named Digi International’s 2024 EMEA Growth Partner of the Year.

    Digi International’s prestigious Global Channel Awards are given annually to Digi’s most impactful worldwide channel partners, celebrating their leadership, innovation, customer-first mindset, and outstanding contributions to the expansion of connected technologies.

    “Digi is a long-standing partner, and we are honored to be named their 2024 EMEA Growth Partner of the Year,” said Martin Stiborski, Managing Director of BRESSNER. “This award reflects our commitment to providing state-of-the-art hardware solutions for demanding applications.”

    “Our channel partners are at the heart of Digi’s global success,” said Ron Konezny, President and CEO of Digi International. “Each award recipient has demonstrated unmatched dedication to advancing IoT and infrastructure management, while delivering exceptional value to customers in every region we serve. Their commitment and results speak volumes — and together, we are empowering digital transformation across industries and geographies.”

    To learn more and view this year’s additional winners, visit:
    https://www.digi.com/company/press-releases/2025/digi-celebrates-2024-global-channel-awards   

    About BRESSNER Technology GmbH
    As a system integrator, manufacturer, value-added distributor, and system house for industrial hardware solutions, components, accessories, and built-to-order solutions, BRESSNER offers an extensive portfolio for various applications in the industrial environment. Tailored solutions for machine automation, logistics & transport, and production are part of the company’s range of services, as well as comprehensive support for topics such as AI applications, machine/deep learning, networks, intelligent retail, communication, and security. The company’s headquarters is located in Germany, with its parent company, One Stop Systems, based in the USA.

    About One Stop Systems
    One Stop Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: OSS) is a leader in AI enabled solutions for the demanding ‘edge’. OSS designs and manufactures Enterprise Class compute and storage products that enable rugged AI, sensor fusion and autonomous capabilities without compromise. These hardware and software platforms bring the latest data center performance to harsh and challenging applications, whether they are on land, sea or in the air.

    OSS products include ruggedized servers, compute accelerators, flash storage arrays, and storage acceleration software. These specialized compact products are used across multiple industries and applications, including autonomous trucking and farming, as well as aircraft, drones, ships and vehicles within the defense industry.

    OSS solutions address the entire AI workflow, from high-speed data acquisition to deep learning, training and large-scale inference, and have delivered many industry firsts for industrial OEM and government customers.

    As the fastest growing segment of the multi-billion-dollar edge computing market, AI enabled solutions require-and OSS delivers-the highest level of performance in the most challenging environments without compromise.

    OSS products are available directly or through global distributors. For more information, go to www.onestopsystems.com. You can also follow OSS on X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    One Stop Systems cautions you that statements in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and expectations. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by One Stop Systems or its partners that any of our plans or expectations will be achieved, including but not limited to the potential and/or the results participating in the ROTH Conference, any results relating to one-on-one meetings with management, and the expansion of the Company’s offerings and/or relationship with commercial customers and/or investors. Actual results may differ from those set forth in this press release due to the risk and uncertainties inherent in our business, including risks described in our prior press releases and in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading “Risk Factors” in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, which is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Media Contacts:
    Robert Kalebaugh
    One Stop Systems, Inc.
    Tel (858) 518-6154
    Email contact

    Investor Relations:
    Andrew Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    Tel (216) 464-6400
    Email contact

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Tzaneen dam wall project revised completion for 2026

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced a revised completion date for the raising of Tzaneen Dam Wall project, which was initially scheduled for March 2025.

    In a statement on Wednesday, the department announced that the new target for the project completion is March 2026.

    The Tzaneen Dam Wall Raising project, which is part of the Groot Letaba River Water Augmentation Project (GLeWaP), was resumed on 06 June 2023.

    The project includes raising the dam wall by 3 metres, which will significantly increase the dam’s storage capacity to meet the growing water demands and improve water security in the Limpopo Province.

    Once completed, the additional water supply is expected to benefit households, agricultural and industrial sectors the region.

    According to the department, the project is currently 46% complete.

    Anthony Bhasopo from the department’s Water Resource Infrastructure Development unit, expressed satisfaction with the progress and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to deliver the project within the revised timeframe.

    While acknowledging some unforeseen incidents that hampered with progress to complete the project within the stipulated timeline, Bhasopo said the department has made strides since the beginning of the project in 2023.

    “We have progressed well and achieved significant milestones of the project, and we are confident that the revised timeline will be met. This project will ensure that the objective to meet the projected growing primary water requirements for the next 20 years in the region, is finally realised,” Bhasopo said.

    The construction project that has been carried out includes the demolition of the upper section of the existing ogee spillway, construction of a new labyrinth spillway to increase discharge capacity, strengthening of the earthfill embankments for improved dam stability, realignment of the permanent access road downstream of the dam, and additional supporting and safety-related works.

    The components that have been completed, or are in progress are as follows:
    •    Temporary fencing around the site.
    •    Temporary access road from Deerpark and river diversion pipeline.
    •    Realignment of the permanent access road, which is 20 % complete. 
    •    Embankment strengthening, which is 36% complete.
    •    Tongue wall construction, which is 19 % complete.
    •    Labyrinth spillway construction, which is 11% complete.

    “The project enabled 241 people to be employed, which includes the main contractor and sub-contractors. Females count to 76, and the youth count to 108,” Bhasopo said.

    Originally completed in 1977, the Tzaneen Dam features a mass concrete gravity spillway flanked by earthfill embankments. The existing ogee-type spillway, which is 91.44 metres long with a crest level of 723.90 metres above sea level (masl), will be replaced by a more efficient labyrinth spillway.

    The non-overspill crest currently measures 1,063.5 metres at 730.60 masl, with protective interlocking concrete blocks on both the upstream and downstream embankment faces.

    The dam’s current gross storage capacity is 157.3 million cubic metres (m3), and the project will increase the total storage capacity by 35.7 million m3. After the completion of the project, the new capacity will be 193 million m3. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: No packaging, no problem? The potential drawbacks of bulk groceries

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Fanny Reniou, Maître de conférences HDR, Université de Rennes 1 – Université de Rennes

    High-income professionals over the age of 50 make up 70% of all consumers of bulk products.
    DCStudio/Shutterstock

    The bulk distribution model has been in the news again lately, with well-known brands such as The Laughing Cow making their way into French supermarkets. Stakeholders in the bulk sector are seeking to introduce innovations in order to expand and democratise the concept. But is the bulk model such a clear-cut approach to consuming in a sustainable way?

    Bulk can be described as a consumer practice with a lower impact on the environment, since it involves the sale of products with no packaging, plastic or unnecessary waste and the use of reusable containers by consumers. In this type of distribution, predetermined manufacturer packaging becomes a thing of the past.

    In this model, distributors and consumers take on the task of packaging the product themselves to ensure the continuity of the multiple logistical and marketing functions that packaging usually fulfils. Unaccustomed to this new role, stakeholders in the bulk sector may make mistakes or act in ways that run counter to the environmental benefits that are generally expected to result from this practice.

    Contrary to the usually positive discourse on bulk products, our research points to the perverse and harmful effects of bulk distribution. When bulk stakeholders are left to “cope with” this new task of packaging products, can bulk still be described as ecologically sound?

    A new approach to packaging

    Packaging has always played a key role. It performs multiple functions that are essential for product distribution and consumption:

    • Logistical functions to preserve, protect and store the product: packaging helps to limit damage and loss, particularly during transport.

    • Marketing functions for product or brand recognition, which is achieved by distinctive colours or shapes to create on-shelf appeal. Packaging also has a positioning function, visually conveying a particular range level, as well as an informative function, serving as a medium for communicating a number of key elements such as composition, best-before date, etc.

    • Environmental functions, such as limiting the size of packaging and promoting certain types of materials – in particular recycled and recyclable materials.

    In the bulk market, it is up to consumers and distributors to fulfil these various functions in their own way: they may give them greater or lesser importance, giving priority to some over others. Insofar as manufacturers no longer offer predetermined packaging for their products, consumers and distributors have to take on this task jointly.

    Assimilation or accommodation

    Our study of how consumers and retailers appropriate these packaging functions used a variety of data: 54 interviews with bulk aisle and store managers and consumers of bulk products, as well as 190 Instagram posts and 428 photos taken in people’s homes and in stores.

    The study shows that there are two modes of appropriating packaging functions:

    • by assimilation – when individuals find ways to imitate typical packaging and its attributes

    • by accommodation – when they imagine new packaging and new ways of working with it

    Bulk packaging can lead to hygiene problems if consumers reuse packaging for a new purpose.
    GaldricPS/Shutterstock

    Some consumers reuse industrial packaging, such as egg cartons and detergent cans, because of their proven practicality. But packaging may also mirror its owners’ identity. Some packaging is cobbled together, while other packaging is carefully chosen with an emphasis on certain materials like wax, a fabric popular in West Africa and used for reusable bags.



    A weekly e-mail in English featuring expertise from scholars and researchers. It provides an introduction to the diversity of research coming out of the continent and considers some of the key issues facing European countries. Get the newsletter!


    Once packaging disappears, so does relevant information

    Appropriating the functions of packaging is not always easy. There is a “dark side” to bulk, with possible harmful effects on health or the environment, and social exclusion. Bulk can lead, for example, to hygiene-related problems or misinformation when consumers fail to label their jars correctly, or use packaging for another purpose. For example, using a glass juice bottle to store detergent can be hazardous if a household member is unaware of its contents.

    Bulk shopping can also appear exclusive for people with less culinary education. (High-income professionals over the age of 50 make up 70% of all consumers of bulk products.) Once the packaging disappears, so does the relevant information. Some consumers actually do need packaging to recognize, store and know how to cook a product. Without this information, products may end up in the garbage can!

    Our study also shows the ambivalence of the so-called “environmental function” of bulk shopping – the initial idea being that bulk should reduce the amount of waste generated by packaging. In fact, this function is not always fulfilled, as many consumers tend to buy a great deal of containers along with other items, such as labels, pens and so on, to customise them.

    Some consumers’ priority is not so much to reuse old packaging, but to buy new storage containers, which are often manufactured in faraway lands! The result is the production of massive amounts of waste – the exact opposite of the original purpose of the bulk trade.

    Lack of consumer guidance

    After a period of strong growth, the bulk sector went through a difficult period during the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to closures for many specialist stores in France, according to a first survey on bulk and on reuse. In supermarkets though, some retailers invested to make their bulk aisles more attractive – though in the absence of any effective guidance, consumers failed to make them their own. Bulk aisles have become just one among a host of other aisles.

    Things seem to be improving however, and innovation is on the rise. In France, 58% of the members of the “Bulk and Reuse Network” (réseau Vrac et réemploi) reported an increase in daily traffic between January and May 2023 compared with 2022.

    Distributors need to adapt to changing regulations. These stipulate that, by 2030, stores of over 400 m2 will have to devote 20% of their FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) sales areas to bulk sales. Moreover, bulk sales made their official entry into French legislation with the law on the fight against waste and the circular economy (loi relative à la lutte contre le gaspillage et à l’économie circulaire) published in the French official gazette on February 11, 2020.

    In this context, it is all the more necessary and urgent to support bulk stakeholders, so that they can successfully adopt the practice and develop it further.

    Fanny Reniou has received funding from Biocoop as part of a research partnership.

    Elisa Robert-Monnot has received funding from Biocoop as part of a research partnership and collaboration.

    Sarah Lasri ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.

    ref. No packaging, no problem? The potential drawbacks of bulk groceries – https://theconversation.com/no-packaging-no-problem-the-potential-drawbacks-of-bulk-groceries-258305

    MIL OSI Analysis

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Housing placed at the heart of Cabinet

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister announces changes to Ministerial team.

    Tackling the housing emergency will be at the heart of the Scottish Cabinet, First Minister John Swinney has announced.

    Màiri McAllan has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Housing upon her return to government from maternity leave. Ms McAllan has responsibility for all aspects of housing policy, including heat in buildings.

    This appointment will ensure government action is focused on tackling the housing emergency and providing energy efficient homes for the future – helping stimulate economic growth, deliver Net Zero commitments and tackle child poverty.  

    Gillian Martin has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, having held the portfolio during Ms McAllan’s maternity leave.

    Following the death of Christina McKelvie in March, Maree Todd will become Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, while retaining her existing responsibility for Sport. Tom Arthur has been appointed as Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing.

    Housing Minister Paul McLennan has requested to leave the Scottish Government and he does so today. Acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan will leave Government at the end of this week, having indicated that he only wished to serve on an interim basis.

    Excluding the Law Officers, the overall size of government reduces to 23, down from 27 in May 2024.

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Scotland’s strengths lie in our people, our communities and our resolve to leave a better future, and better country for the next generation. As First Minister, I am firmly focused on leading a government that unlocks the potential for every person in Scotland to thrive.

    “I have made changes to the Cabinet which will further enable us to realise that potential. Màiri McAllan has been tasked with tackling the housing emergency, including ensuring we have energy efficient homes to help bring down bills and tackle the climate emergency. These are two of the biggest challenges facing people across the country and I want them to know they have a government firmly on their side and focused on delivering real change.

    “Following the sad passing of Christina McKelvie, I have asked Maree Todd to take on responsibility for Drugs and Alcohol Policy. This government has shown it is not afraid to take bold measures to prevent harm and death, and we must redouble our efforts.

    “I want to thank Paul McLennan and Alasdair Allan for the service they have provided to me, the government and to the people of Scotland. They both held two very important Ministerial appointments in housing and climate action and have helped to drive forward progress in tackling two issues which are central to Scotland’s long-term success as a nation.” 

    Background

    The changes mean the Scottish Cabinet now consists of twelve, the majority of whom are women. Further changes mean the Ministerial team reduces to eleven, from fourteen.

    The Scottish Cabinet is as follows:

    • First Minister John Swinney
    • Deputy First Minister, with responsibility for Economy and Gaelic, Kate Forbes
    • Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government Shona Robison
    • Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Jenny Gilruth
    • Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs Angela Constance
    • Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Shirley-Anne Somerville
    • Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop
    • Cabinet Secretary for Housing Màiri McAllan
    • Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin
    • Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon 
    • Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Neil Gray
    • Cabinet Secretary for Constitution External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson

    Màiri McAllan has been on maternity since 1 July 2024. Gillian Martin was acting Cabinet Secretary Net Zero and Energy, with Alasdair Allan temporarily assuming responsibility for Climate Action. Màiri McAllan maternity cover – gov.scot

    Christina McKelvie, Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, passed away in March 2025.  First Minister pays tribute to Christina McKelvie MSP – gov.scot

    Tom Arthur was previously Minister for Employment and Investment. His investment responsibilities will be assumed by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, while Richard Lochhead’s extended responsibilities see him become Minister for Business and Employment.

    Paul McLennan has left government today. Alasdair Allan will leave his post at end of this week.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Carers portal launched offering around the clock instant online support

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 11th June 2025

    A new 24/7 online portal is launched today to provide the city’s valued community of carers a range of instant support, information and advice.

    The portal, which is being launched during National Carers Week, can be reached at www.stoke.gov.uk/helpforcarers.

    It includes:

    • News and events for carers
    • Help with carer assessments
    • Advice on supporting clients to access financial support
    • A community directory of useful local organisations
    • Equipment and adaptations
    • Information on health from autism and learning disabilities through to mental health support, local facilities
    • Housing advice: private rents, councils and social housing
    • Out and about: public transport, accessible toilets and changing, sports and activities.
    • Money and legal: paying for care and support, benefits, power of attorney.

    This is the third portal launched by the council’s Adult Social Care team in the last few months – both the Bettercare Support portal and Professional Portal are also available 24/7 to make accessing services, support and signposting better than ever before.

    The aim of all three is to help people lead the most independent lives they possibly can by tapping into the right amount of support, whatever their circumstances.

    In addition, a new Finance Portal that will enable people to quickly see if they are likely to be eligible to have support funded, will also be available in the next few weeks.

    Councillor Duncan Walker, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and All-Age Commissioning at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Our carers are often unsung heroes, of all ages, many unpaid looking after relatives or other loved ones, and deserve all the support we can offer.

    “The services available at the click of a button through this new portal are aimed at just that – helping them to access all the advice they need along with a range of organisations who can support them.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor announces record investment to rebuild National Health Service

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    Chancellor announces record investment to rebuild National Health Service

    The Chancellor has today (Wednesday 11 June) announced a record £29 billion investment to get the NHS back on its feet and fit for the future.

    • Rachel Reeves announces record £29 billion funding boost to get the NHS back on its feet and fit for the future.
    • New investment includes up to £10 billion on technology and digital transformation, GP training to deliver millions more appointments and rolling out mental health support to all schools.
    • Reeves tells the House of Commons: “There’s no strong economy without a strong NHS.”

    New investment announced at the Spending Review will enable the NHS to deliver on the government’s Plan for Change to cut waiting lists, improve patient care and modernise services.

    Up to £10 billion allocated towards technology and digital transformation, thousands more GPs to be trained and funding allocated to deliver an additional 700,000 urgent NHS dentist appointments a year.

    The funding boost came as the Chancellor unveiled a Spending Review to deliver Britain’s renewal, with record investment in the country’s security, health and economy.

    Security

    The Chancellor confirmed a £11 billion real-terms increase in defence spending over the spending review period, backing our Armed Forces, creating British jobs in British industries, and prioritising the security of Britain when it is most needed.

    Today’s funding will provide the Ministry of Defence with the resources and capital necessary to start delivering the Strategic Defence Review, rebuilding the armed forces and investing heavily in UK intelligence capabilities. This includes £15 billion for a nuclear sovereign warhead programme, supporting over 9,000 jobs in the UK, £7 billion of infrastructure funding for a once-in-a-generation renewal of military accommodation, and £6 billion for munitions, investing in supply chains and factories in the UK and generating over 1,000 jobs and export potential. 

    At least £280 million a year will also be invested into border security by 2028-29, including into the Border Security Command, to tackle people-smuggling gangs running small boats. Funding of at least £400 million a year by 2028-29 will speed up the process of asylum processing, increase appeals capacity and continue asylum returns alongside ending the costly use of hotels for accommodation.

    Police spending power will see an average 2.3% real terms increase over the Spending Review period as the government puts police back on the beat in communities across England and Wales, supporting the government’s Plan for Change commitment to put an additional 13,000 police officers, PCSOs and special constables into neighbourhood roles.

    Growth

    Roads, infrastructure and towns outside of London and the South East will receive investment to ensure Britain’s renewal is one that is truly national. Revisions to the Treasury’s Green Book announced by the Chancellor mark a new approach to appraisal in the public sector, one which will enable the more effective assessment of place-based interventions. 

    The Chancellor announced £15.6 billion funding in total by 2031-32 for local transport projects in England’s city regions and £2.3 billion from 2026-27 to 2029-30 for local transport improvements outside of these nine regions, improving everyday journeys for all. The Chancellor announced a further £2.5 billion to connect Oxford and Cambridge through the continued delivery of East-West Rail and confirmed she will set out plans to take forward work on Northern Powerhouse Rail in the coming weeks.

    Funding announced today will deliver upgrades to Cardiff Central station, reduce journey times between Manchester and Leeds through continued investment in the TransPennine Route Upgrade, and progress the delivery of Midlands Rail Hub, enhancing connections from Birmingham across the West Midlands and to other regions.

    The Chancellor also confirmed the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation, confirming £39 billion of investment over ten years through a new Affordable Homes Programme, turbocharging the Plan for Change commitment to get the country building and deliver the 1.5 million homes Britain needs.

    This significant settlement represents the first time in living memory that the government has set out a programme that provides ten years of certainty – giving the sector the confidence to deliver for now and for the future of housing in Britain and turning the tide on the housing crisis in this country.

    Today’s Spending Review also supports the development of home-grown, clean power to deliver energy security by committing £14.2 billion for Britain’s first state-funded nuclear power station since 1988 in Sizewell C, providing over £2.5 billion for one of Europe’s first Small Modular Reactor programmes and allocating £9.4 billion to UK carbon capture and storage over the Spending Review period – all while supporting Britain’s acceleration to net zero and driving growth.

    The Chancellor also confirmed additional funding for up to 350 communities, especially those in deprived areas, through Plans for Neighbourhoods – giving new long-term regeneration funding and supporting councils in their fightback against graffiti and fly-tipping across Britain.

    The government will also establish a Growth Mission Fund to expedite local projects that are important for growth but have been forgotten, such as Southport Pier, Kirkcaldy’s seafront and High Street, and a new sports quarter in Peterborough.

    In the coming weeks, the government will release its Infrastructure and Industrial Strategies – providing the certainty and stability sectors need to invest and work to drive our growth mission.

    Devolved nations

    The devolved administrations will receive their largest real terms settlements since devolution began in 1998, enabling them to deliver on local priorities that matter most to communities.

    The Scottish Government will receive an average extra £2.9 billion across the duration of this Spending Review through the operation of the Barnett formula. In recognition of Scotland’s unique needs, they will have 20% more to spend per individual than comparable UK Government spending for people in the rest of the UK.

    The Welsh Government will benefit from an average extra £1.6 billion over the Spending Review period through the Barnett formula to deliver against the priorities of working people in Wales, and 20% more to spend per individual than comparable UK Government does for people in the rest of the UK.

    The Northern Ireland Executive will receive an average extra £1.2 billion through the Barnett formula, 24% more to spend per person than the comparable UK Government spending in the rest of the UK, reflecting Northern Ireland’s unique circumstances.

    These record settlements are made possible by the tough but necessary decisions taken in the October Budget.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth welcomes new elected members of the Youth Parliament

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Earlier this year, people across the city elected their new faces to be the voice for young people across the city.

    The Youth Parliament members pictured with Councillors, who together held a mock debate session to discuss the campaigns.

    Two members have been elected, with two deputy members, and are ready to get stuck into their projects over the next year.

    Bill, aged 13 aims to reduce homework, by ensuring teachers are aware of the struggles students face, and they offer help and support to those that need it.

    Sienna, aged 16 was elected last year and re-elected this year, Sienna aims to tackle violence against women and girls, by challenging harmful attitudes, and advocating for safe spaces.

    Our deputy members

    Faith, aged 16 aims to reduce bus fares for children, young people and students. Focusing on school holidays.

    The final project aims to tackle the cost of living crisis, with online campaigns highlighting the effects and to work with local leaders to promote support schemes.  This is being led by Robin, 16.

    Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “Our members of the Youth Parliament are all inspiring young people who are excellent role models as they are campaigning for change in our city. They are the voice for their generation, and all their campaigns are very strong focusing on current issues.

    “I look forward to seeing them progress with their work over the next year and huge congratulations to them.”

    Plymouth Youth Parliament is open to young people aged 11 to 18.

    They are involved in supporting the above campaigns as well as a range of other work including attendance and involvement in the Children, Young People and Families Scrutiny committee.

    If you are interested in working with them and feel you can contribute to supporting the young people in meeting their campaign aims or can link them to workstreams relevant to their campaigns, or if you know of any young people interested in getting involved, please contact The Participation Team via [email protected].

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fun for Just £1 This Summer at Derry and Strabane Leisure Centres

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Fun for Just £1 This Summer at Derry and Strabane Leisure Centres

    6 June 2025

    Families across Derry and Strabane can look forward to an action-packed summer as the Council launches its exciting seasonal programme of activities – all at unbeatable value.

    Returning again this year is the hugely popular £1 Summer Offer, running from 1st July to 31st August. This initiative gives young people under 18 access to a wide range of daytime activities – all for just £1 – at Council leisure centres across the city and district.

    Available from Monday to Friday until 5pm, the offer includes swimming and a variety of court and pitch-based activities such as:

    • Tennis
    • Badminton
    • 5-a-side football
    • Table tennis
    • Basketball
    • Squash
    • Selected pitch activities (T&Cs apply)

    The initiative is part of Council’s wider sports development programme, aimed at encouraging children and young people to stay active, try new sports, and enjoy healthy fun throughout the summer – without breaking the bank.

    Karen McFarland, Director of Health and Community at Derry City and Strabane District Council, said:

    “The £1 Summer Scheme offers a fantastic variety of activities to keep children and young people engaged, active, and entertained throughout the holidays. It’s a great way for them to discover new interests while staying healthy and having fun.

    Importantly, the affordable £1 price point helps ease the financial pressure on families looking to keep their kids busy over the summer break.”

    The scheme will be available at the following Council leisure centres:

    • Bishops Field
    • City Baths
    • Foyle Arena
    • Brooke Park Leisure Centre
    • Derg Valley Leisure Centre
    • Melvin Sports Complex
    • Riversdale Leisure Centre
    • Templemore Sports Complex

    Please note: Activities must be booked on the day of play. Advance bookings are not available.

    Separate from the £1 Summer Scheme offer, children and young people can also avail of the Council’s Intensive Swim Lessons over the summer months. Online and in-house enrolment will be available from the following times next week:

    Monday 9th June

    Foyle Arena – Online from 9am, inhouse from 10am

    City Baths – Online and inhouse from 11am

    Tuesday 10th June

    Templemore Sports Complex – Online from 9am, inhouse from 10am

    Riversdale Leisure Centre – Online from 9am, inhouse from 10am

    For full details on the summer programme and to stay up to date with all the latest offers, visit:
     www.derrystrabane.com/services/leisure

    You can also follow your local leisure centre on Facebook for regular updates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Putting Conservatives Back into Conservation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Commonsense, science-based, and economically sound legislation successfully passed out of the Natural Resources Committee through our portion of the reconciliation legislation this week, as House Republicans continue to deliver on our promise to generate savings and boost new revenue for the federal government. As Chairman of this great committee, it was an honor to lead my colleagues in delivering an incredible federal savings of $18.5 billion dollars, greatly surpassing our requested amount of $1 billion dollars.

    There’s an understanding one holds as an Arkansan, avid outdoorsman, and licensed forester that our nation’s natural resources are more abundant than almost anywhere in the world, capable of meeting our energy demands without looking beyond our borders for help. Our country is certainly blessed with these resources, and it’s time for Congress to begin the work to produce legislation that provides the avenues necessary for needed energy, critical minerals, and loosening the ties that bind us to our dependence on countries like China and Russia for energy and minerals that can be produced right here at home.

    When advocating for this legislation, many groups worry about conservation, oftentimes leading us to a hands-off approach that usually causes more harm than good. It’s important that we learn from the great conservationist giants who came before us and apply their knowledge with the knowledge we have today to create something that is lasting, efficient, and champions the resources we have in our own backyard. 

    Our motto for the Republicans in the House Natural Resources Committee is, “putting conservatives back into conservation.” The word conservation was derived from the word conservative, and many of our most renowned conservationists like President Teddy Roosevelt, John Lacey, and Gifford Pinchot were proud Republicans. Conservation has been an ideal instilled in the Westerman family since childhood when learning from our granny as she tended the garden, making use out of every single thing her hard work produced, and it has been a guiding principle throughout my life, certainly now as Chairman of the Natural Resources Committee.

    Sir Roger Scruton, a fellow of the British Academy and of the Royal Society of Literature, once said that a conservative is one who believes in unchosen obligations. A deeper look into that ideal is that a conservative is someone who reflects deeply on the past – in this case, our nation’s history – and understands that there is a much larger picture that all of us are a part of. Our great nation is the product of the grand ideals our founding fathers derived for us through creating and establishing our Constitution and form of government. And as such, we have a deep obligation of upholding and defending those values and principles upon which our country was founded. 

    There cannot be a reflection upon the past without an understanding of the importance of looking toward the future and recognizing the unchosen obligation we have to care now for what we have been given, for it to be even better for the generations to come. House Natural Resources Republicans are doing exactly that as we have crafted and passed this vital legislation for the reconciliation process that will position the federal budget to allow for the conservation and stewardship of our lands. Our natural resources are one of the most treasured gifts we have been given as a nation, and we must do our part, in our day, to leave them better than how they were received for our benefits both now and in the future.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Hope for the Future

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Deeply woven into the fabric of our nation’s history is the importance of second chances, fresh starts, and new beginnings. Before the United States was even established, those facing challenges in their home countries – whether through religious persecution or socioeconomic strains – looked toward our shores for hope and opportunity. And when our nation was finally conceived, those who fought hard to establish our democratic republic carried that hope with them to establish a rule of law that provided opportunity, not affliction, for those looking for second chances.

    Earlier this year, it was an honor to lead the charge in the House of Representatives to introduce a bipartisan resolution recognizing April as Second Chance Month. This piece of legislation provided the perfect opportunity to bring awareness to the struggle millions of previously incarcerated individuals face when looking to reenter their community. Millions of Americans who have paid their debt to society face innumerable and cumbersome barriers to find good work, contribute to their communities, and start fresh – all because of their past. In fact, the American Dream itself is the idea that neither your class nor your past determines your value, and your success can be achieved through hard work and dedication – not the family you were born into or even your past mistakes.

    Former President Ronald Reagan spoke at an event in Valley Stream, New York, in 1984, when he said, “America’s greatest gift has always been freedom and equality of opportunity – the idea that no matter who you are, no matter where you came from, you can climb as high as your own God-given talents will take you.” President Reagan may not have been speaking to incarcerated individuals, but the spirit of this statement rings true: our nation is perhaps the greatest in the world not only for its strength and prosperity, but the opportunity for starting anew. Because of this principle that has resonated throughout our nation’s history, it was a privilege to sign on as an original cosponsor of the Second Chance Reauthorization Act last week.

    This important piece of legislation reauthorizes reentry grant programs from the Second Chance Act of 2008 for an additional amount of time, paving the way for the federal government to continue making important investments into programs across the country to bolster reentry services, reduce recidivism rates, and in turn, create stronger families and safer communities. There are thousands of Arkansans facing these challenges, even now, and Congress is poised to take action to advocate for the need for transitional housing services, substance abuse treatments, and other provisions to support our friends and neighbors who have paid their debt to society and now seek a second chance.

    As a constant champion for this legislation, which aligns deeply with Arkansas’s Justice Reinvestment Initiative, it is a privilege to work toward finding a solution to the problems of a strained justice system, high recidivism and incarceration rates, and securing the safety of our Arkansas communities. The Second Chance Act will continue to be an answer, and I look forward to continuing to advocate alongside my colleagues in a bipartisan effort to bring these folks back to the shores of hope and opportunity.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: One Big, Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Across the nation, conversations this week likely revolved around the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” that passed out of the House, delivering on the mandate handed down by over 77 million Americans to address concerns like border security, increasing costs, healthcare, and more. It was especially exciting to be a part of this process, not only as Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, but also in my capacity as a member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. Through each of these committees, we were able to find a combined total of over $55 billion in savings – putting more money back into taxpayers’ pockets.

    Hearing directly from my constituents is an important aspect of my role, as it provides me with better insight, enabling me to serve and represent the folks of the Fourth District of Arkansas as best as possible in Washington. It was a great privilege to host a telephone town hall earlier this week where I was able to do just that – listen to the questions and concerns my friends and neighbors back home have regarding this significant piece of legislation. I was encouraged by the number of callers who expressed a deep desire to learn and understand what House Republicans are doing to craft legislation that puts Americans first.

    Most notably, there is evident concern around Medicaid and tax breaks for hard working Americans. In recent years, we’ve seen incredible abuse and wasteful spending through programs like Medicaid. This vital program that millions of Americans depend on for healthcare has been abused and mismanaged, endangering access for countless of Americans who rightfully need help. This piece of legislation rights these wrongs and protects vulnerable Americans – pregnant women, single mothers, low-income seniors, and disabled individuals – just as the program was designed.

    It certainly does not go unnoticed by me how many working families, small business owners, and hourly workers reside right here in the Fourth District. These hardworking Americans are the backbone of our economy, and as such, are in need of a tax break that allows them to retain their hard-earned money. Taxpayers’ money doesn’t belong to the federal government, it belongs in their pockets, allowing them to spend and save that money as they choose. 

    Under this big, beautiful bill, working American families will see the largest tax break in our nation’s history. Under the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts, which this bill extends, Americans earning under $100,000 received an average tax cut of 16 percent, while the taxes paid by the top 1 percent were found to increase. Moreover, earners in the bottom 20 percent who make up to $26,000, saw their federal tax rate fall to its lowest level in 40 years. With no tax on tips or overtime pay, expanding and making permanent the 199A small business deduction, and providing additional tax relief for seniors, there is no question that this bill champions the hardworking Americans who provide the greatest, most integral support to our nation’s economy. 

    No matter how you slice it, this bill works for all Americans – not just one small sect or tax bracket, but every single hardworking American who pours their heart and soul into providing for their families, contributing to their communities, and holding the aspiration of achieving the time-honored goal of “The American Dream.” It is an honor to work alongside House Republicans as we continue to deliver on our mandate and put Americans first.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON, COLLEAGUES, VETERANS SHARE HOW CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS’ POLICIES ARE HARMING VETERANS’ CARE

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Norfolk, VA – Today, the House Democratic Steering & Policy Committee held a hearing on the impacts of the Trump Administration proposed policies and DOGE cuts for veterans. Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), a Vietnam war combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient, testified alongside committee Co-Chairs Congresswomen Robin Kelly (D-IL) and Nanette Díaz Barragán (D-CA). The committee heard from policy experts, healthcare providers, and veterans on how Congressional Republican schemes make it more difficult to plan, access care, and utilize critical programs across the federal government.  

    “Since his first day back in office, the President has gone after our nation’s veterans. The President has fired thousands of veterans and VA staff, taken a sledgehammer to the PACT Act serving veterans exposed to toxic substances, and canceled hundreds of contracts for programs supporting veterans’ mental health and addressing veteran homelessness. Make no mistake: This administration is making our veterans, their families, and the American people worse off,” said Rep. Mike Thompson.  
     
    “Today, I heard a clear message from veterans, healthcare leaders and VA workers: President Trump’s agenda is making it harder for veterans and their families to receive the care they need,” said Rep. Kelly. “The Trump administration has fired over 6,000 veterans who are federal workers, implemented hiring freezes in the VA hospital system and cut mental healthcare for veterans. These attacks against the brave men and women who served our country in uniform are undignified and disrespectful.” 
     
    “Our veterans served our country and have earned the care and benefits they were promised,” said Rep. Barragán. “Yet, Donald Trump and House Republicans have fired thousands of veterans, canceled contracts for programs to end veteran homelessness and prevent veteran suicide, frozen hiring new staff at the VA, and cut programs that provide health care and education — all so that they can line the pockets of their billionaire donors. House Democrats will continue to put our veterans over billionaires, fight back against Trump and House Republicans, and work to keep America’s commitment to our veterans.”  
     
    Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA), who hosted the field hearing in his district said, “Today’s hearing highlighted the ways President Trump, Secretary Collins and Congressional Republicans have harmed our nation’s veterans by firing veterans, weakening the VA, and slashing Medicaid. I was proud to host my colleagues in Hampton Roads, home to one of the largest veterans’ populations in the country. I look forward to continuing to work together to protect America’s veterans from these attacks and ensure they receive the quality health care they earned.”  
       
    “As Ranking Member on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, I hear heartbreaking stories of our veterans being fired or denied and delayed from receiving their hard-earned benefits and services,” said Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). “Trump and Republicans are breaking our promise to America’s veterans, letting Elon Musk’s DOGE cut benefits and healthcare our veterans earned while carrying out the largest firing of veterans in American history.”  
     
    This year, the Steering & Policy Committee has held hearings on Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security Small Business, and Veterans. Each one shared personal stories of how everyday Americans are being harmed by this administration. The Steering & Policy Committee will continue to hear, collect, and share more stories from across the nation in the months ahead.  
     
    The full video of today’s hearing can be found here.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Christopher Hui concludes UK visit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui today proceeded to Oslo, Norway, after concluding a visit to the UK, where he showcased Hong Kong’s determination to expand international financial co-operation.

    Addressing a lunch event hosted by the UK’s Hong Kong Association yesterday, Mr Hui said Hong Kong’s vibrant capital markets offer global investors, including those from the UK, a gateway and access to invest in Asia’s burgeoning tech sector.

    He highlighted that the strengths of Hong Kong’s capital markets are supported by geopolitical developments and the Mainland’s technological advancements, and urged global investors to leverage the city’s deep market liquidity and robust regulatory framework.

    Mr Hui also remarked that Hong Kong’s integration into the London Metal Exchange’s global warehouse network in January this year not only enhances Hong Kong’s commodities infrastructure but also creates significant opportunities for UK firms.

    Riding on its proximity to Asia’s industrial markets, Hong Kong can partner with the UK to jointly tap growing demand for new-energy metals and support global industrial transformation and sustainable development, he added.

    Mr Hui also held a roundtable meeting yesterday with members of TheCityUK, a body representing the UK’s financial and related professional services industries, and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on establishing a partnership between it and the Financial Services Development Council (FSDC).

    He was joined in doing so by TheCityUK’s Leadership Council Chair Bruce Carnegie-Brown.

    The MOU was signed by FSDC Executive Director King Au and TheCityUK’s Managing Director of Public Affairs, Policy & Research John Godfrey. 

    Mr Hui said the MOU reflects a shared vision to harness the strengths of Hong Kong and the UK, creating opportunities that benefit both places and the global financial ecosystem.

    Earlier in the day, Mr Hui held a bilateral meeting with City of London Lord Mayor Alderman Alastair King, and briefed him on developments in Hong Kong’s financial services sector.

    Mr Hui also met PwC UK Chief Markets Officer Carl Sizer to discuss the role the auditing and accounting profession can play in helping Mainland enterprises go global.

    On Monday morning, Mr Hui attended a briefing session hosted by British independent think-tank Asia House, and spoke to its members about the latest financial developments in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area at large.

    He also responded to questions about Hong Kong’s financial outlook in a Q&A session moderated by Asia House Chief Executive Michael Lawrence.

    His other engagements on Monday included a meeting with senior management from ICBC Standard Bank, and another with Economic Secretary to the UK Treasury Emma Reynolds and other financial officials.

    He briefed the bank’s Chief Executive Officer Wang Wenbin and other senior executives about the international gold trading market and commodity trading ecosystem that Hong Kong is developing.

    At the meeting with the UK officials, Mr Hui reaffirmed the financial partnership between the Hong Kong and London, as two leading international financial centres, and gave an update on the situation in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

    In addition, Mr Hui paid a courtesy call on Minister of the Chinese Embassy in the UK Wang Qi.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sexual Violence in eastern DRC is a persistent emergency

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • This year again, the number of victims and survivors of sexual violence treated by MSF teams in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains at an alarming level.
    • MSF calls on all parties to the conflict to improve the safety of civilians and access to care for all. We also urge the international community to maintain care for survivors as a priority, despite the current funding cuts.  

    Goma – For years, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams have repeatedly warned of the alarming level of sexual violence in eastern DRC. The number of victims treated by MSF has surged in the past three years, since fighting between the Congolese army, the M23/AFC (Alliance Fleuve Congo) armed group, and their respective allies resumed. The crisis is particularly acute in North Kivu, where MSF teams treated an unprecedented number of victims and survivors – nearly 40,000 – in 2024.

    This worrying trend has continued in 2025. Since January, MSF teams have treated an alarmingly high number of survivors to the facilities they support in North and South Kivu.

    “The context in this region has changed, but the problem of sexual violence—which disproportionately affects women—has not.” says François Calas, head of MSF’s programme in North Kivu.

    Sexual violence remains a medical emergency that requires immediate action.

    Goma’s camps, housing more than 650,000 displaced people, were dismantled in February 2025 following the capture of the city by M23/AFC. However, MSF teams continue to treat new victims of sexual violence every day in facilities in and around the city, totalling nearly 7,400 patients between January and April 2025. Twenty kilometres west of Goma, in the small town of Saké, more than 2,400 survivors were treated over the same period. 

    Since the camps were dismantled, many displaced women have been unable or unwilling to return home to their villages and are often left alone with their children where they are sheltering. 

    “We receive many women who have been abused in or near the host families’ homes or community centres where they are staying,” says Calas. “Very often, they are coerced into sexual acts in exchange for accommodation. Wherever they are, they don’t seem to be safe anywhere.”

    As has been the case for years, most assaults reported by victims in 2025 were committed under the threat or force of a weapon by individuals who could not be identified due to the large number of people carrying weapons—both civilian and military—the proliferation of weapons, and persistent insecurity.

    “In Goma, many patients report that they are raped at night during periods of high insecurity, during burglaries that are often accompanied by the kidnapping or even murder of their husbands,” says Calas. “But in some neighbourhoods, these attacks are even committed during the day.”

    “Armed men came into our home at around 10.30 p.m.,” says Nasha*, a woman who built a shelter in the courtyard of a school after she was displaced. “Some men were killed and some women, including me, were raped. Three men wanted to rape me in front of my husband and eight children. My husband resisted . . . they killed him.”

    On the outskirts of Goma and Saké, many victims say they were attacked on the roads or in the fields. 

    “They asked me to choose between handing over my body or being killed,” says Rika*, a resident of a village about forty kilometres west of Goma. “They raped me, one after the other.”

    At the Mungunga 3 health centre in Goma, in the east of DRC, MSF psychologist Jean consults a survivor of sexual violence. Democratic Republic of Congo, May 2025.
    Lamine Keita/MSF

    In South Kivu, the situation is also worrying. In the territories of Kalehe and Uvira, MSF teams have treated nearly 700 victims and survivors of sexual violence since the beginning of 2025. Most of the accounts gathered describe acts committed at gunpoint. 

    “We suffered in the fields where we took refuge,” says a woman from a village in the hills around Kamanyola in South Kivu. “The armed men did not allow us to cross the villages. Some women were even raped when they tried to cross to reach health facilities.”

    “The figures are underestimated because there are many obstacles to accessing care: fear of reprisal, stigma, geographical remoteness, and lack of treatment capacity in the facilities,” says Luders Leriche, head of MSF medical activities in South Kivu.

    The higher or lower number of cases in certain areas reflects available treatment capacity rather than the scale of the problem in that region.

    Essential services under threat

    The impact of sexual violence—which mainly affects women, and even children—has long been known and documented. The number of men who are victims, although much lower, is also a cause for concern. Beyond the health and psychological impact, the social consequences are devastating: family and social rejection, stigma, divorce, suicidal thoughts, and immense difficulty for survivors to continue living in the locations where they were assaulted.

    The situation is even more worrying because access to treatment services is becoming increasingly difficult. Several health facilities in the provinces of North and South Kivu have already run out of medicines and kits they need to treat survivors of sexual violence. 

    “In addition to the disruption of supply chains and the delivery of medicines due to the ongoing conflict, global cuts in humanitarian funding are raising serious concerns about the future,” says Calas. “Despite the current challenges, we must not abandon these women and children. Their care must be an absolute priority.” 

    In addition to supporting care for victims and survivors, MSF also calls on all stakeholders to do their utmost to further guarantee the protection of civilians and their access to healthcare.

    MSF teams provide comprehensive medical and psychological care to victims and survivors of sexual violence in Goma, Rutshuru, Masisi, and Walikale in North Kivu, and Kalehe and Uvira in South Kivu. Medical care includes medical and psychological support, preventative treatment against sexually transmitted infections, emergency contraception, vaccines, and safe abortion care. The most severe cases are referred to specialist hospitals.

    *Names changed to protect patient anonymity.

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence personnel support NHS blood donation campaign to save lives

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Defence personnel support NHS blood donation campaign to save lives

    Defence Medical Services have joined forces with the NHS in a national campaign to boost blood donation and help save lives.

    MOD Copyright

    The first event, held at Main Building in London last week, saw 31 military and civilian personnel donate nearly 15 litres of blood – enough to save up to 93 adults or 186 children.

    The campaign comes at a critical time, as the NHS faces a national blood shortage.  Stocks of O Negative and B Negative blood types are particularly low, with the NHS estimating that there is currently less than three days’ worth of O Negative blood currently available nationwide. O negative is a universal blood type, often used in emergencies when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type.

    The event, which was attended by the Chief of Defence People, the CEO of NHS Blood and Transplant, Chief of the Air Staff and Chief of the General Staff, marks the start of a series of blood donation sessions that will take place across Defence establishments around the UK over the coming weeks and months.

    Supporting all those who volunteered their time to donate blood, Chief of Defence People, Vice Admiral Phillip Hally said:

    It was great to see so many donating blood in MOD Main Building this week. We can all play a part in supporting the NHS, and these events help to make a life-saving difference. Thank you to everyone who donated, and please do look out for future events across Defence.

    MOD Copyright

    Defence’s collaboration with the NHS demonstrates the vital role that the Armed Forces play in supporting the nation, not just in times of crisis but in everyday efforts to improve public health, wellbeing and in making Britain safer and secure at home. The initiative also highlights the strong partnership between Defence and NHS Blood and Transplant, working together to address urgent national challenges.

    Following the success of the London event, a further three defence blood donation sessions will take place at Andover, Whittington (home of the Defence Medical Services), and Corsham, with plans to expand to additional locations in the future.

    Dr Jo Farrar, CEO NHS Blood and Transplant, said:

    The day was a huge success, and I am very pleased to report that 43 people attended (97% of the available spaces) with 31 being able to donate. Of those, 15 individuals gave blood for the first time.

    This means that, thanks to the donors and support of the MoD, we will be able to save up to 93 lives. That’s people who have suffered trauma because of an accident, a child undergoing treatment for cancer, a teenager with sickle cell disease, or a woman needing blood during childbirth.

    MOD Copyright

    As NHS Blood and Transplant are urging people to come forward to donate as they continue to suffer a major national blood shortage following the cyber-attacks last year. An Amber Alert has been in place for both O-negative and O-positive blood groups since last July, as well as donors from black and ethnic minority backgrounds. Blood from donors from the same ethnicity can be vital for treating certain conditions where blood of the same ethnicity is required.

    As National Blood Week 2025 approaches, the NHS reminds the public that all blood types are needed to help save lives. Every donation can make a difference, whether it’s for a trauma patient, a child undergoing cancer treatment, or a mother in need during childbirth.

    If you are eligible to donate, please consider signing up today to support this life-saving effort.

    You can donate if you:

    • Are fit & healthy
    • Weigh between 50kg and 160kg
    • Are aged between 17 – 66 (or 70 if donated before)
    • Have not had a tattoo /body piercing in past 4 months
    • Not received blood transfusion since 1980

    To see the full list of eligibility criteria, visit: Who can give blood – NHS Blood Donation

    Please note the following advice prior to your session, for a quick and easy donation:

    • Eat – regular meals to avoid feeling light-headed.
    • Sleep – a good night’s sleep to boost wellbeing.
    • Drink – plenty of fluids 24 hours before, but avoid alcohol, to help the blood flow

    Together, Defence and the NHS are making a life-saving difference. Donate blood today and help save lives across the UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax® ETFs Announces Distributions on SNOY, ULTY, TSMY, CRSH, YMAX and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax® today announced distributions for the YieldMax®Weekly Payers and Group A ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Distribution Frequency Distribution per Share Distribution Rate2,4 30-Day
    SEC Yield3
    ROC5 Ex-Date & Record Date Payment Date
    CHPY YieldMax® Semiconductor Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.4031 39.14% 0.38% 100.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    GPTY YieldMax® AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.3070 34.41% 0.00% 100.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    LFGY YieldMax® Crypto Industry & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.4724 60.93% 0.00% 100.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    QDTY YieldMax® Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.2572 31.02% 0.00% 100.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    RDTY YieldMax® R2000 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3038 34.15% 0.89% 96.74% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    SDTY YieldMax® S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.2258 26.59% 0.00% 100.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    ULTY YieldMax® Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Weekly $0.0950 79.31% 0.00% 100.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    YMAG YieldMax® Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.1709 57.55% 66.50% 94.20% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    YMAX YieldMax® Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.1803 68.10% 88.53% 96.28% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    BRKC* YieldMax® BRK.B Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks
    CRSH YieldMax® Short TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.2534 68.77% 3.08% 95.13% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    FEAT YieldMax® Dorsey Wright Featured 5 Income ETF Every 4 weeks $1.1206 39.67% 52.99% 0.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    FIVY YieldMax® Dorsey Wright Hybrid 5 Income ETF Every 4 weeks $1.0634 35.12% 35.26% 0.00% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    GOOY YieldMax® GOOGL Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.3978 40.78% 3.29% 87.70% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    OARK YieldMax® Innovation Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.3947 60.87% 2.88% 95.83% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    SNOY YieldMax® SNOW Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $1.2757 95.23% 2.27% 97.79% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    TSLY YieldMax® TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.4028 60.47% 2.76% 95.33% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    TSMY YieldMax® TSM Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.8958 70.48% 2.87% 96.58% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    XOMO YieldMax® XOM Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.2498 25.49% 3.62% 80.62% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    YBIT YieldMax® Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.3314 39.49% 1.54% 97.41% 6/12/25 6/13/25
    Weekly Payers & Group B ETFs scheduled for next week: CHPY GPTY LFGY QDTY RDTY SDTY UTLY YMAG YMAX BABO DIPS FBY GDXY JPMO MARO MRNY NVDY PLTY
     

    Standardized Performance and Fund details can be obtained by clicking the ETF Ticker in the table above or by visiting us at www.yieldmaxetfs.com

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH, YQQQ and WNTR are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs.”

    Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    *The inception date for BRKC is June 4, 2025.

    1. All YieldMax®ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. YMAG has a management fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.83% for a gross expense ratio of 1.12%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are on fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax®ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.40%, and a net expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.
    2. The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on June 10, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.
    3. The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended May 31, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.
    4. Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.
    5. ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage indicates how much the distribution reflects an investor’s initial investment. The figures shown for each Fund in the table above are estimates and may later be determined to be taxable net investment income, short-term gains, long-term gains (to the extent permitted by law), or return of capital. Actual amounts and sources for tax reporting will depend upon the Fund’s investment activities during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Your broker will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year to tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Contact Vince DiLullo at vdilullo@tidalfg.com for more information.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax® ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax® ETFs. As such, these Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax® ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    Russell 2000 Index Risks. The Index, which consists of small-cap U.S. companies, is particularly susceptible to economic changes, as these firms often have less financial resilience than larger companies. Market volatility can disproportionately affect these smaller businesses, leading to significant price swings. Additionally, these companies are often more exposed to specific industry risks and have less diverse revenue streams. They can also be more vulnerable to changes in domestic regulatory or policy environments.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA, HOOD, BRK.B), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory, and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA, MSTR), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to CHPY)

    Semiconductor Industry Risk. Semiconductor companies may face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, and such competition may have an adverse effect on their profit margins. Semiconductor companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. Semiconductor companies’ supply chain and operations are dependent on the availability of materials that meet exacting standards and the use of third parties to provide components and services.

    The products of semiconductor companies may face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for the services of qualified personnel. Capital equipment expenditures could be substantial, and equipment generally suffers from rapid obsolescence. Companies in the semiconductor industry are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights. The loss or impairment of these rights would adversely affect the profitability of these companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax® ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, or YieldMax® ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax® ETFs

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Sappi Ltd. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Sappi Ltd. (JSE: SAP; OTCQX: SPPJY), a leading global provider of everyday materials made from woodfibre-based renewable resources, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Sappi Ltd. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Sappi Ltd. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “SPPJY.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    Commenting on Sappi’s decision to begin trading on the OTCQX Market, Sappi Limited CEO Steve Binnie said “It is our stated intention to diversify our shareholder base outside of South Africa. This move will provide more visibility and assurance to North American based investors interested in a renewable resource and bio-based company with strong domestic US manufacturing and customers alongside broad global coverage.

    About Sappi Ltd.
    Sappi is a leading global provider of everyday materials made from woodfibre-based renewable resources. As a diversified, innovative and trusted leader focused on sustainable processes and products, we are building a more circular economy by making what we should, not just what we can.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd (TSX: DRT; OTCQX: DRTTF), a leader in industrialized construction, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “DRTTF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    About DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd
    DIRTT is a leader in industrialized construction. DIRTT’s system of physical products and digital tools empowers organizations, together with construction and design leaders, to build high-performing, adaptable, interior environments. Operating in the workplace, healthcare, education, and public sector markets, DIRTT’s system provides total design freedom, and greater certainty in cost, schedule, and outcomes. DIRTT’s interior construction solutions are designed to be highly flexible and adaptable, enabling organizations to easily reconfigure their spaces as their needs evolve.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.

    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATSTM are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK 🔴 PMQs LIVE: Prime Minister’s Questions and Spending Review – 11 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/MYOzDzhz3mE

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_SiVv6DUlE

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local community experiences exclusive screening of Star Makers 2

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    News story

    Local community experiences exclusive screening of Star Makers 2

    Community members gathered in Gainsborough for a special STEP event, exploring the commercial fusion energy vision and the future of the West Burton site nearby

    Local Councillors at the Star Makers 2 Screening. Image credit: UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd.

    The community surrounding the West Burton site was invited to spend an inspiring afternoon with the STEP team for a special screening of Star Makers 2, a powerful documentary offering a behind-the-scenes look at the future of fusion energy and the final days of the iconic JET facility.

    Held at the nearby Trinity Arts Centre in Gainsborough, the event welcomed local councillors and members of the public to connect with the West Burton STEP team and learn more about the UK’s ambitious plans to deliver a prototype fusion energy power plant.

    Guests heard from Debbie Kempton, Director of Engineering at UK Industrial Fusion Solutions (UKIFS), who shared an update on the progress at West Burton and the vital role the site will play in shaping a sustainable energy future.

    It was a special opportunity to showcase the Star Makers 2 documentary to our local community. Filming took place recently at the West Burton power station site for the ending scenes of this unique documentary, it was great to be able to share this with people who live and work close to the site. It offers a glimpse into the future as we progress toward building a prototype fusion energy power plant. Sharing this journey with local councillors and members of the public is vital to our success. These are also the people who will help us to identify our future workforce.

    The event highlighted the importance of community engagement as the UK continues to lead the way in clean energy innovation. A recent announcement from Government confirmed record investment in R&D for fusion energy, investing over £2.5bn over five years, with reference to progressing the STEP programme. 

    UKIFS’s STEP programme is the UK’s flagship initiative to design and build the world’s first prototype fusion power plant by the early 2040s. The West Burton site was selected in 2022 as the future home of this ambitious project, positioning the Retford and Gainsborough area at the heart of a global energy revolution.  West Burton’s development is expected to bring thousands of high-skilled jobs, new infrastructure, and global scientific collaboration to the region. A report by Amion, commissioned by Local Councils in the area, suggested that the project could create between 5,500 and 8,500 jobs in and around the site (as well as additionally bringing further new industry, jobs and investment to the wider area), adding an average of over £500m a year to the UK economy over the coming decades.

    Fusion energy, often described as the “holy grail” of clean power, replicates the process that powers the sun – fusing hydrogen atoms to release vast amounts of energy. Fusion could provide a virtually limitless, safe, and carbon-free energy source for generations to come. The STEP programme aims to demonstrate the commercial viability of this technology and to develop a UK fusion industry capable of delivering commercial fusion power plants around the world in the second half of the century.

    Notes to Editors

    STEP – Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production – is a major technology and infrastructure programme to build the UK’s first prototype fusion power plant and to create a UK-led fusion industry. STEP will demonstrate net energy, fuel self-sufficiency and a route to commercialisation. This will catalyse new ideas and technology that will benefit multiple industries and help secure our future on this planet. STEP is a government-funded industry partnership programme led by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of UKAEA Group. 

    The West Burton site was selected in October 2022 as the home for STEP. The site is currently a demolition zone, with extensive works to decommission the former coal-fired power station, alongside this activity, the STEP Programme is preparing site characterisation information in readiness for construction.

    To sign-up for updates about STEP, visit: step.ukaea.uk or follow our social channels @STEPtoFusion.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Global Digital Collaboration Conference – International Trade: Improving Compliance and Facilitation

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    International trade processes are swamped with documents, many of which stubbornly resist digitalisation. This includes trade documents like orders & invoices, transport documents such as house/master air/sea waybills, finance documents such as letters of credit & cargo insurance, and regulatory documents such as import/export declarations & preferential certificates of origin. This panel examines the role of verifiable credentials as highly scalable and secure way to digitalise trade. Use cases will show how trade documents as verifiable credentials can reduce illicit trade, improve access to trade finance, and facilitate legitimate trade. The panel will also discuss the challenges in digitalisation of a special class of “transferrable” documents such as ocean bills of lading.

    Steve Capell, UN/CEFACT Bureau Vice-Chair, Sin Yong Loh, Emmanuelle Ganne, Stephan Wolf, TBA trade finance speaker

    Registration

    Follow the link to register.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Security: AFRICOM Commander Highlights Focus on Counter Terrorism, Partner Capacity Building During House Armed Services Committee Testimony

    Source: United States AFRICOM

    U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael E. Langley, commander of United States Africa Command, testified yesterday before the House Armed Services Committee on how the command ensures America’s deterrence and peace through strength.

    During his testimony, Langley emphasized the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the U.S. homeland from terrorism threats originating in Africa while bolstering the capacity of African partners – preparing them to shoulder an increased share of the burden for regional security throughout Africa.

    Langley opened his remarks by reiterating AFRICOM’s approach, saying, “Everything we do in the United States AFRICOM has one overarching goal in mind: Achieving peace through strength.”

    To achieve this, Langley said, AFRICOM requires a clear understanding of national security threats, a robust and dependable network of like-minded allies and partners, and appropriate resourcing to match military requirements.

    Langley addressed growing concerns about terrorist organizations and their exploitation of instability across the African continent. He underscored the importance of building the capacity of African partners to counter these threats, emphasizing diligence in the fight against terrorism.

    “Africa remains a nexus theater from which the United States cannot afford to shift its gaze,” said Langley.   “It is home to terrorists who take advantage of conditions in Africa to grow and export their ideology.  ISIS controls their global network from Somalia.”

    Committee members questioned Langley on counterterrorism operations in Somalia and the effect these operations have.

     “We’ve been pressuring ISIS in the Golis Mountains significantly,” Langley stated. “It’s been reinstituting deterrence in a significant way.”

    Other questions focused on China and Russia and their goals in Africa.

    “We must deter these nations and other malign actors from their goals on the continent,” Langley said. “As far as China is concerned and their aspirations to become a global hegemon, they’re outspending AFRICOM militarily 100-to-1.  As they have basing aspirations across the globe, especially in Africa, they’re trying to close the gap from a geostrategic position to be able to stop our joint forces from employing across the globe or for A2AD, aerial denial, anti-access.”

    Throughout the hearing, Langley consistently emphasized the need for a coordinated approach with other government peers, integrating whole-of-government efforts, both in the United States and in the African nations, to achieve lasting security outcomes in Africa.

    Langley emphasized that the command’s approach to sharing the stability and security burden in Africa with African partners and allies has been African lead.

    “The plan is theirs,” Langley said, describing how African partners are pursuing greater roles in regional security efforts.  “Every country is different; we don’t push ourselves to invade on their sovereignty.”

    The full statement and hearing can be viewed on the U.S. Africa Command website at https://www.africom.mil/about-the-command/2025-posture-statement-to-congress

    U.S. Africa Command, one of 11 U.S. Department of Defense combatant commands with an area of responsibility covering 53 African states, more than 800 ethnic groups, over 1,000 languages, vast natural resources, a land mass that is three-and-a-half times the size of the U.S., and nearly 19,000 miles of coastland. Working alongside its partners, AFRICOM counters transnational threats and malign actors, strengthens security forces and responds to crises.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Child poverty figures show positive change for families in Perth and Kinross

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The estimates for the year 2023-2024 show that just under one in five children (19.2%) is living in relative poverty after housing costs, compared to 21.7% in the previous year. There has also been a reduction for those living in relative poverty before housing costs from 14.5% to 13.3%, or one in eight children. In a national comparison, child poverty is reducing in Perth and Kinross at a faster rate compared to Scotland as a whole. 

    Rising housing costs remain the biggest issue for many families and as the statistics show, progress on reducing child poverty is being impacted, with just under 2000 children experiencing poverty as a direct result of these costs. 

    The figures are linked in with details of the actions taken to tackle and mitigate the effects of poverty from early learning and childcare provision and support enabling parents to return to employment, to a range of measures to mitigate housing costs, including the building of new affordable housing together with local housing associations, energy saving advice and support, physical improvements to properties. and financial and benefits advice. 

    Perth and Kinross Council Leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “These figures show an important improvement in poverty levels in Perth and Kinross, which I very much welcome, but 5,155 children in poverty is still too many by any standards. Through the support and services the Council delivers, and partnership working overseen via the Anti-Poverty Task Force, the steps being taken are making positive changes for the children and families most in need in Perth and Kinross.  

    “As a Council our decisions to prioritise tackling poverty are a key contributor to improving our residents’ circumstances, and we remain committed to this approach. Alongside this, it should be recognised that there are also factors outwith the Council’s control that continue to impact households in and at risk of poverty.” 

    Chair of the Perth and Kinross Anti-Poverty Task Force, and Chief Executive of PKAVS, Shaheena Din commented: “It’s encouraging to see a reduction in child poverty across Perth and Kinross. This progress is a success. But we can’t be complacent. Every statistic represents a child’s life, and we know that too many families are still struggling. As a taskforce, we remain focused on listening, learning, and acting together to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.” 

    Further details of the 2023-2024 data is available on our website at Elected Member Briefing – Child Poverty Estimates 2023-2024.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: NVIDIA Partners With Europe Model Builders and Cloud Providers to Accelerate Region’s Leap Into AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Model Builders Across Europe — Including France, Italy, Poland, Spain and Sweden — to Deliver Sovereign Models With NVIDIA Nemotron
    • AI Models Tailored to Local Languages and Culture Coming to Perplexity, Delivered as NVIDIA NIM Microservices and Hosted on Regional AI Infrastructure From NVIDIA Cloud Partners

    PARIS, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NVIDIA GTC Paris at VivaTech — NVIDIA today announced that it is teaming with model builders and cloud providers across Europe and the Middle East to optimize sovereign large language models (LLMs), providing a springboard to accelerate enterprise AI adoption for the region’s industries.

    Model builders and AI consortiums Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Bielik.AI, Dicta, H Company, Domyn, LightOn, the National Academic Infrastructure for Supercomputing in Sweden (NAISS) together with KBLab at the National Library of Sweden, the Slovak Republic, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the University College of London, the University of Ljubljana and UTTER are teaming with NVIDIA to optimize their models with NVIDIA Nemotron™ techniques to maximize cost efficiency and accuracy for enterprise AI workloads, including agentic AI.

    Model post-training and inference will run on AI infrastructure in Europe from NVIDIA Cloud Partners (NCPs) participating in the NVIDIA DGX Cloud Lepton™ marketplace.

    The open, sovereign models will provide a foundation for an integrated regional AI ecosystem that reflects local languages and culture. Europe’s enterprises will be able to run the models on Perplexity, an AI-powered answer engine used to answer over 150 million questions per week. Companies will also be able to fine-tune the sovereign models on local NCP infrastructure through a new Hugging Face integration with DGX Cloud Lepton.

    “Europe’s diversity is its superpower — an engine of creativity and innovation,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “Together with Europe’s model builders and cloud providers, we’re building an AI ecosystem where intelligence is developed and served locally to provide a foundation for Europe to thrive in the age of AI — transforming every industry across the region.”

    Optimizing Model Accuracy and Inference Savings With NVIDIA Nemotron
    Europe — the world’s third largest economic region — is home to industries spanning manufacturing, robotics, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, finance, energy and creative.

    To accelerate the region’s AI-driven transformation, NVIDIA partners are delivering their open LLMs with support for Europe’s 24 official languages. Several models also specialize in national language and culture, such as those from H Company and LightOn in France, Dicta in Israel, Domyn in Italy, Bielik.AI in Poland, the University of Ljubljana and the Slovak Republic models, BSC in Spain, NAISS and KBLab in Sweden, TII in the United Arab Emirates and the University College London in the U.K.

    The LLMs will be distilled with NVIDIA Nemotron model-building techniques — including neural architecture search — as well as reinforcement learning and post-training with NVIDIA-curated synthetic data. These optimizations will reduce operational costs and boost user experiences by generating tokens faster during inference. The Nemotron post-training workloads will run on DGX Cloud Lepton hosted by European NCPs including Nebius, Nscale and Fluidstack.

    Developers will be able to deploy the sovereign models as NVIDIA NIM™ microservices running on AI factories — on premises and across cloud service provider platforms — using a new NIM microservice that supports more than 100,000 public, private and domain-specialized LLMs hosted on Hugging Face.

    Adding Europe’s Sovereign AI Insights to Perplexity
    Supporting AI diversity for enterprises across the region, Perplexity will integrate the sovereign AI models into its answer engine, which is used by European enterprises, publishers and organizations, including telecommunications and media giants. Perplexity uses LLMs to improve accuracy in search queries and AI outputs. The answer engine draws from credible sources in real time to accurately answer questions with in-line citations, perform deep research and complete assistive tasks.

    “Perplexity’s goal is to provide accurate, trustworthy answers to any question from any person, wherever they are,” said Aravind Srinivas, cofounder and CEO of Perplexity. “Bringing NVIDIA-optimized sovereign AI models to Perplexity empowers innovation in Europe with AI built and running in the region.”

    Availability
    The first distilled models from Europe’s model builders are expected to be available later this year.

    Watch the NVIDIA GTC Paris keynote from Huang at VivaTech and explore GTC Paris sessions.

    About NVIDIA
    NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) is the world leader in accelerated computing.

    For further information, contact:
    Allie Courtney
    NVIDIA Corporation
    +1-408-706-8995
    acourtney@nvidia.com

    Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements as to: together with Europe’s model builders and cloud providers, NVIDIA building an AI ecosystem where intelligence is developed and served locally to provide a foundation for Europe to thrive in the age of AI — transforming every industry across the region; the benefits, impact, performance, and availability of NVIDIA’s products, services, and technologies; expectations with respect to NVIDIA’s third party arrangements, including with its collaborators and partners; expectations with respect to technology developments; and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to management and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to be materially different than expectations. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include: global economic and political conditions; NVIDIA’s reliance on third parties to manufacture, assemble, package and test NVIDIA’s products; the impact of technological development and competition; development of new products and technologies or enhancements to NVIDIA’s existing product and technologies; market acceptance of NVIDIA’s products or NVIDIA’s partners’ products; design, manufacturing or software defects; changes in consumer preferences or demands; changes in industry standards and interfaces; unexpected loss of performance of NVIDIA’s products or technologies when integrated into systems; and changes in applicable laws and regulations, as well as other factors detailed from time to time in the most recent reports NVIDIA files with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including, but not limited to, its annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Copies of reports filed with the SEC are posted on the company’s website and are available from NVIDIA without charge. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, NVIDIA disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

    Many of the products and features described herein remain in various stages and will be offered on a when-and-if-available basis. The statements above are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as a commitment, promise, or legal obligation, and the development, release, and timing of any features or functionalities described for our products is subject to change and remains at the sole discretion of NVIDIA. NVIDIA will have no liability for failure to deliver or delay in the delivery of any of the products, features or functions set forth herein.

    © 2025 NVIDIA Corporation. All rights reserved. NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo, DGX Cloud Lepton, NVIDIA Nemotron and NVIDIA NIM are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability and specifications are subject to change without notice.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f5fb6261-43d3-4e35-ba55-37a8fbeca57c.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Events as city marks Windrush Day 2025

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Celebrated annually, Windrush Day honours the contributions which the Windrush generation and their descendants have made to British society.

    It commemorates the arrival of the MV Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks in 1948, bringing passengers from the Caribbean to the UK – an event which marked the beginning of significant migration from the Caribbean which enriched British culture and society.

    Dignitaries and members of the public will gather for a flag raising ceremony outside the Civic Centre on Sunday 22 June at 10.30am, which will feature speeches from representatives of the Windrush community, the Mayor of Wolverhampton Craig Collingswood and the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Sandra Samuels OBE, who in 2022 became the first person of African-Caribbean heritage to become Mayor of Wolverhampton.

    There will then follow a special event at Wolverhampton Art Gallery introduced by Lord Lieutenant Derrick Anderson CBE where a bust of Mel Chevannes, created as part of a community led project, will be unveiled.

    Mel, who will be in attendance next weekend, was elected to Graiseley Ward in 1981 and served as a local councillor for 11 years, chairing the Social Services Committee in 1982. She later became the first African-Caribbean chairperson of The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust.

    She said: “I am humbled to be honoured by a bronze bust in the city of Wolverhampton, which has been my home for the last 50 years. I am proud to be recognised for my professional, community and educational contributions to this wonderful city.

    “It is truly amazing that this is the first such public recognition in England of a black woman who is very much alive.”

    Visitors to the gallery will also have the opportunity to view a temporary exhibition about Mel’s life, achievements and contribution to the city.

    Mayor Councillor Collingswood said: “We are delighted to play our part in highlighting an important time in our history – and to celebrate the impact that the Windrush generation, and individuals such as Mel Chevannes, have had on our city and our nation.

    “Everyone is welcome to join us for the flag raising and the unveiling, and I hope that as many residents as possible are able to come along and help us celebrate Windrush Day 2025.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom