Category: housing

MIL-OSI: YieldMax® Introduces Option Income Strategy ETF on Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B)

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax® announced the launch today of the following ETF:

YieldMax® BRK.B Option Income Strategy ETF (NYSE Arca: BRKC)

BRKC seeks to generate current income by pursuing options-based strategies on Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (“BRK.B”). BRKC is managed by Tidal Financial Group. BRKC does not invest directly in BRK.B.

BRKC is the newest member of the YieldMax® ETF family and like all YieldMax® ETFs, aims to deliver current income to investors. With respect to distributions, BRKC will be a Group A ETF, and its first distribution is expected to be announced on July 9^th, 2025.

Please see the table below for distribution information for all outstanding YieldMax® ETFs.

ETF Ticker¹	ETF Name	Distribution Frequency	Distribution Rate^2,4	30-Day SEC Yield³	ROC⁵
CHPY	YieldMax® Semiconductor Portfolio Option Income ETF	*Weekly*	34.19%	0.38%	100.00%
GPTY	YieldMax® AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF	*Weekly*	33.22%	0.00%	100.00%
LFGY	YieldMax® Crypto Industry & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF	*Weekly*	60.72%	0.00%	100.00%
QDTY	YieldMax® Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call Strategy ETF	*Weekly*	28.07%	0.00%	100.00%
RDTY	YieldMax® R2000 0DTE Covered Call Strategy ETF	*Weekly*	24.42%	0.89%	95.29%
SDTY	YieldMax® S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call Strategy ETF	*Weekly*	25.88%	0.00%	100.00%
ULTY	YieldMax® Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF	*Weekly*	78.61%	0.00%	100.00%
YMAG	YieldMax® Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs	*Weekly*	70.31%	66.50%	97.56%
YMAX	YieldMax® Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs	*Weekly*	65.04%	88.53%	92.64%
BIGY	YieldMax® Target 12™ Big 50 Option Income ETF	Monthly	12.02%	0.20%	94.52%
RNTY	YieldMax® Target 12™ Real Estate Option Income ETF	Monthly	12.13%	2.21%	93.65%
SOXY	YieldMax® Target 12™ Semiconductor Option Income ETF	Monthly	11.78%	0.17%	100.00%
ABNY	YieldMax® ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	42.01%	2.97%	93.60%
AIYY	YieldMax® AI Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	88.81%	2.97%	96.86%
AMDY	YieldMax® AMD Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	72.55%	3.09%	96.48%
AMZY	YieldMax® AMZN Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	48.28%	3.09%	94.01%
APLY	YieldMax® AAPL Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	30.96%	3.42%	89.96%
BABO	YieldMax® BABA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	81.51%	3.32%	96.22%
CONY	YieldMax® COIN Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	119.22%	3.53%	80.80%
CRSH	YieldMax® Short TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	84.22%	3.08%	97.39%
CVNY	YieldMax® CVNA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	129.09%	2.81%	99.33%
DIPS	YieldMax® Short NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	54.18%	2.78%	0.00%
DISO	YieldMax® DIS Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	50.22%	3.16%	94.89%
FBY	YieldMax® META Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	49.79%	3.21%	93.73%
FEAT	YieldMax® Dorsey Wright Featured 5 Income ETF	Every 4 weeks	51.42%	52.99%	0.00%
FIAT	YieldMax® Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	67.85%	2.93%	96.24%
FIVY	YieldMax® Dorsey Wright Hybrid 5 Income ETF	Every 4 weeks	32.36%	35.26%	0.00%
GDXY	YieldMax® Gold Miners Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	30.60%	3.38%	0.00%
GOOY	YieldMax® GOOGL Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	36.93%	3.29%	81.91%
HOOY	YieldMax® HOOD Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	70.41%	–	99.33%
JPMO	YieldMax® JPM Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	31.52%	3.02%	91.70%
MARO	YieldMax® MARA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	111.50%	3.30%	98.09%
MRNY	YieldMax® MRNA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	63.98%	3.20%	0.00%
MSFO	YieldMax® MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	41.10%	3.13%	92.68%
MSTY	YieldMax® MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	85.27%	1.76%	97.45%
NFLY	YieldMax® NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	47.73%	2.98%	94.49%
NVDY	YieldMax® NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	131.88%	2.98%	97.93%
OARK	YieldMax® Innovation Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	50.47%	2.88%	94.42%
PLTY	YieldMax® PLTR Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	140.91%	2.76%	98.54%
PYPY	YieldMax® PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	55.03%	3.41%	95.28%
SMCY	YieldMax® SMCI Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	99.93%	3.05%	97.21%
SNOY	YieldMax® SNOW Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	96.99%	2.27%	97.27%
TSLY	YieldMax® TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	110.41%	2.76%	97.90%
TSMY	YieldMax® TSM Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	64.34%	2.87%	95.70%
WNTR	YieldMax® Short MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	104.26%	2.89%	97.57%
XOMO	YieldMax® XOM Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	42.05%	3.62%	85.39%
XYZY	YieldMax® XYZ Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	109.59%	2.93%	98.01%
YBIT	YieldMax® Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	106.79%	1.54%	99.08%
YQQQ	YieldMax® Short N100 Option Income Strategy ETF	Every 4 weeks	23.18%	3.35%	86.54%

Standardized Performance & 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).

¹All YieldMax® ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX and 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 indirect 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.

²The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on June 4th, 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^st, 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.

⁵ROC 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.

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

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 Index (or ETFs that track the Index’s performance)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 Index (or ETFs that track the Index’s performance) 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. Additionally, monthly distributions, if any, may consist of returns of capital, which would decrease the Fund’s NAV and trading price over time.

High Index (or Index ETF) Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high Index (or Index ETF) 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The MIL Network –

June 5, 2025

MIL-OSI: Sachem Capital Corp. Announces Common and Preferred Dividends

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BRANFORD, Conn., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sachem Capital Corp. (NYSE American: SACH) (the “Company”), a real estate lender specializing in originating, underwriting, funding, servicing, and managing a portfolio of loans secured by first mortgages on real property, announced today that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) declared a quarterly dividend of $0.05 per common share to be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of trading on the NYSE American on June 16, 2025.

Additionally, the Board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.484375 per share to holders of the Company’s 7.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, payable on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of trading on the NYSE American on June 15, 2025. This dividend represents the full amount of the dividend accruing from March 30, 2025 through and including June 29, 2025.

About Sachem Capital Corp.
Sachem Capital Corp. is a mortgage REIT that specializes in originating, underwriting, funding, servicing, and managing a portfolio of loans secured by first mortgages on real property. It offers short-term (i.e., three years or less) secured, nonbanking loans to real estate investors to fund their acquisition, renovation, development, rehabilitation, or improvement of properties. The company’s primary underwriting criteria is a conservative loan to value ratio. The properties securing the loans are generally classified as residential or commercial real estate and, typically, are held for resale or investment. Each loan is secured by a first mortgage lien on real estate and is personally guaranteed by the principal(s) of the borrower. The company also makes opportunistic real estate purchases apart from its lending activities.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, strategy and plans, and our expectations for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “plan,” “seek,” “intend,” “believe,” “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “likely,” “continue,” “design,” and the negative of such terms and other words and terms of similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based primarily on management’s current expectations and projections about future events and trends that management believes may affect the company’s financial condition, results of operations, strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to several risks, uncertainties and assumptions as described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2024 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2025, as supplemented by our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Because of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this press release may not occur, and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, the company cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance, or achievements. In addition, neither the company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. The company disclaims any duty to update any of these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements attributable to the company are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements as well as others made in this press release. You should evaluate all forward-looking statements made by the company in the context of these risks and uncertainties.

The MIL Network –

June 5, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Albanese will need some nuance in facing a female opposition leader

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Anthony Albanese loves a trophy, especially a human one. He prides himself on his various “captain’s pick” candidates – good campaigners he has steered into seats.

Way back in the Gillard days, he was key in persuading discontented Liberal Peter Slipper to defect. Slipper became an independent and Labor’s speaker.

The exercise helped the government’s numbers, but the bold play didn’t end well for Labor or for Slipper. The government was tarnished, and Slipper, relentlessly pursued by the Coalition and mired in controversy, eventually had to quit the speakership. The affair did produce Julia Gillard’s famous misogyny speech, however.

Now Albanese has another gee-whiz prize – Western Australian Senator Dorinda Cox, who has defected from the Greens. Cox, after being defeated in a bid for Greens deputy leader, approached Labor and the PM drove her course to being accepted into the party.

The manoeuvre makes a marginal but insignificant difference to Senate numbers – Labor will still need the Greens to pass legislation opposed by the Coalition.

Taking in Cox is a risk, and some in Labor are looking at it askance.

The prime minister’s embrace of Cox contradicts Labor’s argument when its Western Australian senator Fatima Payman defected to become an independent. It said then hers was a Labor seat and she should therefore resign. But this wouldn’t be the first time expediency trumped consistency in politics.

Cox, who is Indigenous and was spokeswoman for First Nations and resources in the last parliament, has been a fierce critic of the extending the North West Shelf gas project, which the government has just announced. Albanese says he is confident she “understands that being a member of the Labor Party means that she will support positions that are made by the Labor Party”.

She has also faced allegations of treating staff badly. Labor discounts the claims against her, saying they are overblown and a product of Greens factionalism and toxicity. Certainly, she was given a tough time by the hard-left faction represented by deputy leader Mehreen Faruqi. Labor would be wise to ensure Cox feels supported in her new party home.

Albanese perhaps calculates that the worst that can happen is there’s a blow up and she defects to the crossbench. Labor could shrug and say, she was never really one of us.

Snatching a senator from the Greens is particularly satisfying to Albanese because he hates the party so much. Last term, lower house Greens MP Max Chandler-Mather (defeated at the election) really got under his skin. More generally, the Greens held up important legislation, most notably on housing.

In the new Senate, Labor will need only the Greens to pass legislation opposed by the Coalition. How new Greens leader Larissa Waters – who replaced Adam Bandt after he lost his seat – handles the party’s relationship with the government will be crucial for the more contentious parts of Labor’s legislative program.

The usually low-key Waters will be under a lot of pressure. The Greens had a bad election, losing three lower house seats. Now they have lost a senator at the start of Waters’ watch.

Waters conceded on the Serious Danger podcast in late May that Labor had successfully run the narrative of the Greens as blockers. “So I do think we’re going to need to be quite deft in how we handle balance of power in this term, […] People want us to be constructive. They don’t just want us to roll over and tick off on any old shit. They want meaningful reforms.”

Waters will want to pick her fights carefully, and also find ways of pursuing the Greens’ agenda where the party co-operates. The first deal is likely to be on the government’s legislation to increase the tax on those with large superannuation balances, which contains the controversial provision to tax unrealised capital gains.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and her team will confront some of the same problems as the Greens – when to oppose and when to seek to negotiate with the government.

For his part, Albanese will have a novel challenge with Ley – what stance to adopt against the first female opposition leader, especially but not only in parliamentary clashes.

After facing two alpha male opposition leaders, Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton, a new approach will obviously be necessary. As one Labor man succinctly puts it, “Labor can’t monster a woman”. There can be no repeat of Albanese, a frontbencher a decade ago in the Shorten opposition, interjecting to urge a female colleague engaged in a stoush with Ley to “smash her”.

For Ley, trying to deal with the Liberals’ multiple difficulties in attracting women voters and candidates must be high on her agenda. Former Liberal federal president Alan Stockdale, one of the three-person group currently running the NSW division of the party, showed himself part of the problem when this week he told the NSW Liberal Women’s Council, “The women in this party are so assertive now that we may need some special rules for men to get them pre-selected”.

Stockdale said later he was being “light-hearted”. Tone deaf might be a better term. Ley jumped on him. “There is nothing wrong with being an assertive woman. In fact I encourage assertive women to join the Liberal Party.”

The jury is out on whether Ley will be able to make any sort of fist of her near-impossible job. But in the short time she’s been leader, she has shown she is willing to be assertive.

She emerged from the brief split in the Coalition looking much steadier than Nationals leader David Littleproud, even though she had to persuade her party room to accept the minor party’s policy demands.

In her frontbench reshuffle, she was willing to wear the inevitable criticism that came with dropping a couple of senior women who had under-performed.

As deputy leader, Ley adjusted her style a while before the election, toning down the aggression and sometimes wild attacks, that had characterised her performance earlier in the term. A Liberal source said she found her “line and length”. As leader, she will have others, notably deputy Ted O’Brien, to do the head-kicking, giving her room to attempt to develop a positive political persona.

Labor leaned into attacking Dutton – never afraid to name him. With Ley, Albanese might adopt the Bob Carr approach of avoiding using his opponent’s name. At least until he finds his line and length in dealing with her.

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

– ref. Grattan on Friday: Albanese will need some nuance in facing a female opposition leader – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-albanese-will-need-some-nuance-in-facing-a-female-opposition-leader-257338

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 5, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Tasmania could go to an election just 16 months after its last one. What’s going on?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert Hortle, Deputy Director, Tasmanian Policy Exchange, University of Tasmania

Tasmania’s Liberal government and its premier, Jeremy Rockliff, have come under huge pressure since the state budget was handed down last week.

It’s culminated in the Tasmanian House of Assembly voting to pass a motion of no confidence in the premier – but only after the speaker, Labor’s Michelle O’Byrne, cast a tie-breaking vote in favour.

Rockliff has since confirmed he’ll recall parliament to sit early next week and debate some emergency bills, then ask the governor for permission to call an early election.

It’s been a wild few days in Tasmanian politics, with huge amounts of conjecture and confusion. Here’s how it all unfolded.

What is a no confidence motion?

First, we need a short lesson in our system of government, called the Westminster system. The Tasmanian situation right now all started with a motion of no confidence in the premier, Rockliff.

This type of parliamentary motion is used to declare the parliament no longer has confidence in the target of the motion.

No confidence motions can be directed at a specific minister or a government as a whole.

If a no confidence motion in a minister is passed, they usually resign from their ministry and sometimes from parliament as well.

If a no confidence motion in a government is passed, the leader of the government usually recommends one of two options to the governor. They can ask the governor to dissolve parliament and call an election, or they can advise the governor to ask someone else (usually the leader of the opposition) to have a go at forming government.

What is happening in Tasmania?

Strap in, it’s complex.

On May 29, the Liberal government presented the state budget. The outlook is grim, with the state forecast to be over $10 billion in debt by 2029.

To address this, the government proposed big cuts to the public service in the coming years.

On June 2, the leader of the opposition, Labor’s Dean Winter, tabled a motion of no confidence in the premier at the end of his budget reply speech.

“Tabling” a motion means putting it on the agenda for discussion at some point in future. To be debated, it has to be “moved”.

Winter stated he wouldn’t move the motion until he had enough support to guarantee it would pass. The motion focused on three things:
- alleged poor financial management
- the ongoing Spirit of Tasmania ferry fiasco
- and the government’s plan to potentially privatise some state-owned businesses.
Support was fast in coming. By Monday evening, three of the six cross-benchers had said they would vote for the motion, meaning Labor only needed the five Greens MPs to jump onboard.

At a party meeting early on Wednesday morning, the Greens decided they would do just that.

So, instead of debating the budget, Wednesday and Thursday were spent debating the no confidence motion.

There was a lot of confusion in Tasmanian political circles at this point. There is very little formal procedure that describes how no confidence motions work in Tasmania’s parliament.

Instead, what happens is defined by convention, which means there are lots of grey areas. There have only been a few successful no confidence motions in Tasmania’s history (the most recent ones were in 1989 and 1982).

So how did it play out?

This time around, there were a few complications.

The motion referred to the premier, not the government. There was speculation, therefore, that if the motion passed, the Liberal Party could replace Rockliff as leader, and Labor would then pass the budget.

However, during parliamentary debate, several Liberal MPs argued they saw the motion as indicating lack of confidence in the whole government – not just the premier. Under this view, Rockliff would have to go to the governor, Barbara Baker, and ask her to call an election, or advise her to ask Winter to try to rally the numbers to govern.

Although the convention is that the governor follows the premier’s advice, there is precedent for them making their own decision.

Just to spice things up further, Baker is currently on leave. The decision would need to be made by the lieutenant-governor, Chief Justice Chris Shanahan, who is new to his role – and the state.

An election quickly shaped up as the most likely outcome. On Thursday morning, Rockliff announced that if the motion passed, he would ask the governor to dissolve parliament and call an election.

Shortly after that, Winter ruled out governing in coalition – or doing a deal – with the Greens. This made it very unlikely any alternative government would have the numbers to pass legislation through the lower house, leaving the lieutenant-governor with few options.

Late on Thursday, parliament voted on the motion. With the numbers tied at 17-17, the speaker cast her vote with the “ayes” alongside the other nine Labor MPs, all five Greens MPs, independents Craig Garland and Kristie Johnston, and the Jacqui Lambie Network’s last remaining MP, Andrew Jenner.

Following an emotionally charged speech, Rockliff met with the lieutenant-governor. Speaking to the media afterwards, he said he’ll recall parliament on Tuesday with the aim of passing an emergency supply bill to ensure public servants continue to be paid despite the delay in the budget process.

Rockliff said he would then ask Baker – who returns from leave next week – for permission to call an election. It will be interesting to see if she takes his advice or not.

What happens now?

All this means Tasmania could head back to the polls in mid-July, just 16 months after the last state election.

The Liberals will seek to pin the blame for the snap election on Labor and the crossbench, and hope that a grumpy electorate punishes them for this.

They will also try to convince Tasmanians they are the only party that can get the controversial stadium in Hobart is built, thereby delivering the state its long-desired AFL team.

Labor will campaign on the three things it cited in the no confidence motion, while arguing it will also guarantee that Tasmania gets an AFL team.

They’ll also be hoping to ride the wave of the recent strong result for federal Labor at the national election. However, on past evidence, they can’t bank on this.

Labor’s challenge will be differentiating themselves from the current government, because their positions are pretty closely aligned on key issues, including the stadium, salmon farming, and the proposed development assistance panels.

The Greens will set out their stall as the only party firmly against the current stadium proposal and in favour of removing salmon farming in Tasmanian waters.

For the independents, an early election is bad news. Campaigns are expensive, and without extensive party resources to draw on, some independents may be forced to decide whether they can afford to run again so soon.

All of this does not point to a more stable parliament. The vote share of the two major parties has been steadily decreasing in Tasmania. A new election is not likely to reverse this trend.

In the meantime, Tasmanians are left to wonder when their political leaders will get serious about tackling the state’s complex health, housing, education, sustainability, and productivity challenges.

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

– ref. Tasmania could go to an election just 16 months after its last one. What’s going on? – https://theconversation.com/tasmania-could-go-to-an-election-just-16-months-after-its-last-one-whats-going-on-258180
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: The Global Environment Facility (GEF) backs $8.7m initiative to unite African nations against extreme weather events in the Ubangi River Basin

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, June 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

Home to one of the largest tributaries of the Congo River, the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will benefit from a pioneering cross-border initiative to prepare for extreme climatic events and develop joint water resource management strategies with $8.7 million in funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Approved this Monday by the GEF Council, the “Regional program for integrated water resources management in the transboundary basin of the Ubangi River between the CAR and the DRC” aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two African nations while improving technical and institutional capacities for managing increasingly extreme floods, droughts and erratic rainfall patterns affecting the Ubangi River basin.

The GEF implementing agencies of the project are the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the African Development Bank. A regional body and two national ministries are ensuring the execution of the initiative: the International Commission of the Congo-Ubangi-Sangha (CICOS), the Ministry of Rural Development of the DRC, and the Ministry of Development of Energy and Water Resources of the CAR.

Thierry Kamach, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of CAR said: “The degradation of natural resources is undeniable. The United Nations 2030 Agenda is an inspiring and unifying message to build strong resilience around a transformative project that will further strengthen ecosystem interdependence for a greener and more sustainable future.”

Flowing between the CAR, the DRC and the Republic of Congo, the Ubangi stretches over 2,272 kilometres and is the main right-bank tributary of the Congo River. As such, it is part of the Congo River basin, the second-largest river basin in the world and a global biodiversity hotspot with over 1,000 fish species.

The river basin’s rainforest harbours more than 10,000 plant species and 2,500 animal species, including two-thirds of all primates, which are under pressure from deforestation and land cover clearing. In parallel, changes in hydrological regimes, riverbank erosion, sedimentation and mining pollution threaten the river’s fish and shore fauna, which are becoming increasingly rare, and the Ubangi’s role as a regulator of regional and global climates. These challenges will be addressed by the new GEF initiative in an integrated fashion, considering the nexus between biodiversity, climate and ecosystem degradation, and between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

“This initiative is vital as it brings together the communities and institutions of two countries to conserve one of Africa’s most ecologically and economically important river basins. By working across borders, these countries will strengthen their resilience to climate change while protecting biodiversity and the natural systems that sustain life” said IUCN Director General, Grethel Aguilar. “Through its strong on-the-ground presence in the Congo basin, IUCN will mobilise actors in the forest and environmental sectors to promote collaborative basin management and community-led nature-based solutions at the regional, national and local levels. Our focus will be as much on biodiversity and water resources, as it will on safeguarding the livelihoods of the region’s 25 million inhabitants, many of whom depend on the Ubangi River for navigation, trade and agriculture”.

“This initiative is aligned with GEF’s long-standing commitment and investments in the sustainable management of the Congo basin,” said GEF CEO and Chairperson Carlos Manuel Rodríguez. “By funding this crucial effort in support of sustainable management of water and land resources while averting pollution and land degradation, the GEF also contributes to maintaining the ecosystem functions of this gigantic forest system in supporting the stability of the regional and global hydrological cycle.”

Over the past 30 years, changes in rainfall patterns have progressively decreased water levels and reduced runoff in the Ubangi River by up to 18%. Coupled with the erosion, this further accentuated the siltation of the river, which is not only detrimental to biodiversity but also cripples navigation, limits trade and restricts access to residential areas. Alternating with drought periods, destructive floods are another harsh reality affecting hundreds of thousands of people in the region over the last decade, leading to population displacement to neighbouring countries.

The new GEF initiative will enable more effective binational cooperation in decision-making and the political monitoring of water crises by establishing a joint observatory and shared tools and data protocols between the DRC and CAR to enhance forecasting, prevention, and common crisis management measures. To combat biodiversity loss caused by human activities in the river basin, practical demonstrations of nature-based solutions —such as agroforestry, conservation farming and ecosystem rehabilitation— will be carried out on site.

Ensuring social inclusivity and promoting a “whole of society” approach, the project will roll out a framework for dialogue and exchange among stakeholders, including regional and local authorities, the private sector (particularly local small to medium-sized enterprises), young professionals, and female community leaders. This aims to strengthen local actors’ capability to contribute to shared watercourse management through training and capacity-building, and to assist them in formulating strategies to resolve common challenges.

Anthony Nyong, Director of the Climate Change and Green Growth Department at the African Development Bank, stated: “The Bank welcomes this GEF-supported initiative to strengthen cooperation in the Ubangi basin, enhance local resilience, and promote women’s leadership. Its nature-based, people-centred approach aligns with our High 5s and offers a model for basin-wide collaboration in Africa.”

With $67 million mobilised in co-financing, the GEF initiative complements a pre-existing project entitled “Regional Support Programme for the Development of Cross-border Water Infrastructure and Resources between the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – PREDIRE”, being implemented by the African Development Bank, by mainstreaming environmental, ecosystem and participative approaches into the sectors of water, agriculture and transport.

MIL OSI Africa –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Storybook will bring a smile to young readers’ faces

Source: City of Wolverhampton

Pupils from local schools worked with the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Public Health team and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust to create The Tooth Family, which tells the story of The Tooth Family on a fun filled adventure to the dentist.

Toothy feels a little nervous about his check up, but with encouragement from his family and the friendly dentist, Dr Floss, he soon learns there is nothing to fear. Along the way, Toothy discovers the secrets to keeping his teeth strong and healthy by brushing twice daily and eating the right foods.

The book seeks to not only highlight the importance of regular brushing, but also help children feel confident about visiting their dentist for regular check ups.

Copies of The Tooth Family will be distributed as part of Early Years packs given out by health visitors, and copies will also be available from local libraries and dentists.

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Encouraging good oral health in our children is vital as tooth decay starts early in life – and those that have high levels of disease in their first teeth have an increased risk of disease in their permanent teeth.

“Fortunately, most decay and oral diseases can be prevented or managed by healthy behaviours such as enjoying a healthy balanced diet and cleaning teeth and gums effectively, and so making sure children have access to effective and age appropriate dental products is essential.

“That’s where The Tooth Family come in – they will help teach children and families develop good habits in a fun and engaging way.”

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “With colourful illustrations and a heart warming story, The Tooth Family will help children feel more confident about dental visits while teaching them the importance of good oral hygiene.

“Its creation highlights the power of partnership working to achieve the best possible outcomes for children’s oral health, and I would like to say a big thank you to pupils and staff from Eastfield Primary, Bilston Primary, Wodensfield Primary and Pennfields schools and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust who have helped us develop the book.”

The launch of the book coincides with National Smile Month, which is now underway. Several initiatives are taking place across the city, with dental packs being distributed via health visitors for toddlers and school nurses for reception age pupils, as well as across Early Years settings for all 3 to 4 year olds. These have received positive feedback from parents, with one saying some children do not even have a toothbrush at home.

Meanwhile, families can pick up free toothbrushes and toothpaste from locations around the city, including Graiseley Strengthening Families Hub, Pool Street, Blakenhall, WV Active Bilston-Bert Williams, WV Active Central and WV Active Aldersley, and from Central, Wednesfield and Warstones libraries. Simply call in during normal opening hours.

National Smile Month, organised by the Oral Health Foundation, runs until 12 June, 2025 and is the UK’s biggest oral health campaign. For more information, please visit National Smile Month.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sham Shui Po youth hostel approved

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Home & Youth Affairs Bureau today approved a youth hostel project in Sham Shui Po that will provide up to 676 hostel places.

Named TN Residence, it is the sixth project under the Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels & Guesthouses as Youth Hostels.

Located on 280 Tung Chau Street, the project will be launched by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (TWGHs) and the Hong Kong Ferry (Holdings) Company.

The TWGHs has introduced the concept of a “youth vertical community” for the project to enable youth tenants to establish a social network with mutual assistance and trust.

Another feature of the project is the V-Mile programme, which encourages youth tenants to actively participate in value-added activities and community services recognised by the TWGHs or organise activities on their own, in order to promote self-enrichment, networking and contributing to society.

The bureau said TN Residence is in close proximity to railway stations, and situated within the cultural and creative industry hub with many specialty shops and restaurants nearby.

It added that it will set up a physical platform for Youth Link members to interact with each other, in the Nam Cheong District Community Centre and Tung Chau Street Temporary Market close by, creating synergy with the youth hostel project.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai welcomes President Bernardo Arévalo of Republic of Guatemala with military honors

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Details
2025-06-03
President Lai confers decoration on President Hilda C. Heine of Republic of the Marshall Islands, hosts state banquet
At noon on June 3, President Lai Ching-te, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, conferred a decoration upon President Hilda C. Heine of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and hosted a state banquet for President Heine and her husband at the Presidential Office. In remarks, President Lai thanked President Heine for her commitment to deepening the diplomatic partnership between our nations and speaking up for Taiwan in the international arena. He also expressed hope for Taiwan and the Marshall Islands to work together to address various challenges through an even greater diversity of exchanges, and that together, we can contribute even more to peace, stability, and development throughout the Pacific region. At the decoration ceremony, President Lai personally conferred the Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon on President Heine before delivering remarks, a translation of which follows: The Marshall Islands was the first Pacific ally that I visited after taking office as president. When I arrived there, I was immediately drawn to its beautiful scenery. And I received a very warm welcome from the local people. This gesture showed the profound friendship between our two nations. I was truly touched. I also remember trying your nation’s special Bob Whisky for the first time. The flavor was as unique and impressive as the landscape of the Marshall Islands. In addition to welcoming our distinguished guests today, we also presented President Heine with the Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to thank President Heine for her commitment to deepening the diplomatic partnership between our nations, and for staunchly speaking up for Taiwan in the international arena. Both I and the people of Taiwan are profoundly grateful to President Heine for her friendship and support. Over the past few years, cooperation between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands has grown ever closer. And this visit by our distinguished guests will allow our two countries to further expand areas of bilateral exchange. I have always believed that only through mutual assistance and trust can two countries build a longstanding and steadfast partnership. I once again convey my sincere aspiration that Taiwan and the Marshall Islands work together to address various challenges through an even greater diversity of exchanges. Together, we can contribute even more to peace, stability, and development throughout the Pacific region. In closing, I want to thank President Heine and First Gentleman Thomas Kijiner, Jr. for leading this delegation to Taiwan, which deepens the foundations of our bilateral relationship. May our two nations enjoy a long and enduring friendship. President Heine then delivered remarks, stating that she felt especially privileged to receive the Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon of the Republic of China (Taiwan), and humbly accepted the honor with the utmost gratitude, humility, and deep responsibility. This is a deep responsibility, she said, because she understands that since its inception in 1933, this order has been bestowed upon a select few. She then thanked President Lai for this great honor. President Heine stated that the banquet was not just a celebration of our bilateral friendship, but a true reflection of the generosity of the Taiwan spirit and a testament to the enduring ties between our nations, founded on shared values and aspirations, including a respect for the rule of law, the preservation of human dignity, and a deep commitment to democracy. President Heine stated that the Taiwan-Marshall Islands partnership continues to evolve through practical cooperation and mutual support. In recent years, she said, our countries have worked hand in hand across a range of vital sectors, including the recent opening of the Majuro Hospital AI and Telehealth Center and the ongoing and successful Taiwan Health Center, various technical training and scholarship programs, and various climate change adaptation projects in renewable energy, coastal resilience, and sustainable agriculture. President Heine emphasized that the Marshall Islands continues to be a proud and vocal supporter of Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the United Nations system and other international organizations. Taiwan’s exclusion from these platforms, she said, is not only unjust, but is bad for the world, and the global community needs Taiwan’s voice and expertise. President Heine also expressed sincere appreciation to all of the Taiwanese friends who have contributed their efforts to deepening bilateral relations, including government officials, healthcare workers, teachers, engineers, and volunteers. The people of the Marshall Islands, she said, deeply appreciate and value everyone’s efforts and service. President Heine said that as we celebrate our partnership, let us look to the future with hope and determination, continue to work together, learn from one another, and support one another to champion a world where all nations can chart their own course based on peace and international law. Also attending the state banquet were Marshall Islands Council of Iroij Chairman Lanny Kabua, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Kalani R. Kaneko, Minister of Finance David Paul, Nitijela Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade Chairperson Joe Bejang, and Charge d’Affaires a.i. Anjanette Davis-Anjel of the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

Details
2025-06-03
President Lai and President Hilda C. Heine of Marshall Islands hold bilateral talks and witness signing of agreements
On the morning of June 3, President Lai Ching-te, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, held bilateral talks with President Hilda C. Heine of the Republic of the Marshall Islands at the Presidential Office following a welcome ceremony with military honors for her and her husband. The leaders also jointly witnessed the signing of a letter of intent for sports exchanges and a memorandum of understanding regarding the Presidents’ Scholarship Fund. President Lai then presided over a launch ceremony for a loan program to purchase aircraft. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government and the Nitijela (parliament) of the Marshall Islands for their longstanding support for Taiwan’s international participation and for voicing staunch support for Taiwan at numerous international venues. President Lai said that Taiwan looks forward to continuing to deepen its diplomatic partnership with the Marshall Islands and build an even closer cooperative relationship across a range of fields, engaging in mutual assistance for mutual benefits and helping each other achieve joint and prosperous development to yield even greater well-being for our peoples. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I once again warmly welcome President Heine, First Gentleman Thomas Kijiner, Jr., and our guests to Taiwan. During my visit to the Marshall Islands last year, I said that Taiwan and the Marshall Islands are truly a family. When Vice President Hsiao and I took office last year, President Heine led a delegation to Taiwan. It is now one year since our inauguration, and I am delighted to see President Heine once again, just as if I were seeing family arrive from afar. Through my visit to the Marshall Islands, I gained a profound sense of the friendship between the peoples of our two nations, well-demonstrated by bilateral exchanges in such areas as healthcare, agriculture, and education. And it is thanks to President Heine’s longstanding support for Taiwan that our countries have been able to further advance collaboration on even more issues, including women’s empowerment and climate change. In recent years, the geopolitical and economic landscape has changed rapidly. We look forward to Taiwan and the Marshall Islands continuing to deepen our partnership and build an even closer cooperative relationship. In just a few moments, President Heine and I will witness the signing of several documents, including a memorandum of understanding and a letter of intent, to expand bilateral cooperation in such fields as sports, education, and transportation. Taiwan will take concrete action to work with the Marshall Islands and advance mutual prosperity and development, writing a new chapter in our diplomatic partnership. I would also like to take this opportunity to express gratitude to the government and Nitijela of the Marshall Islands. In recent years, the Nitijela has passed annual resolutions backing Taiwan’s international participation, and President Heine and Marshallese cabinet members have been some of the strongest advocates for Taiwan’s international participation, voicing staunch support for Taiwan at numerous international venues. Building on the pillars of democracy, peace, and prosperity, Taiwan will continue to work with the Marshall Islands and other like-minded countries to deepen our partnerships, engage in mutual assistance for mutual benefits, and help one another achieve joint and prosperous development. I have every confidence that the combined efforts of our two nations will yield even greater well-being for our peoples and see us make even more contributions to the world. President Heine then delivered remarks, and began by conveying warm greetings of iokwe from the people and government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan). She said she was deeply honored to be in Taiwan for an official visit, and extended appreciation to President Lai and his government for their gracious invitation and warm welcome. President Heine stated that this year marks 27 years of diplomatic ties between our two nations, and that they are proud of this enduring friendship. This special and enduring relationship, she said, is grounded in our shared Austronesian heritage, and strengthened by mutual respect for each other’s democratic systems and our steadfast commitment to the core values of freedom, justice, and the rule of law. President Heine stated that Taiwan’s continued support has been invaluable to the people and national development of the Marshall Islands, particularly in the areas of health, education, agriculture, and climate change. She also expressed deep appreciation to Taiwan for providing Marshallese students with opportunities to study in Taiwan, and for the care extended to Marshallese who travel here for medical treatment. President Heine also announced that she would be presenting a copy of a resolution by the people and government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands reiterating their appreciation for the support provided by the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), and calling on the United Nations to take immediate action to resolve the inappropriate exclusion of Taiwan’s 23 million people from the UN system. She added that she looked forward to the bilateral discussions later that day, and to continuing the important work that both countries carry out together. After the bilateral talks, President Lai and President Heine witnessed the signing of a letter of intent regarding sports exchanges and a memorandum of understanding regarding the Presidents’ Scholarship Fund by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) and Marshallese Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Kalani R. Kaneko. President Lai then presided over a launch ceremony for a loan program to purchase aircraft, marking the formal beginning of Taiwan-Marshall Islands air transport cooperation. The visiting delegation also included Council of Iroij Chairman Lanny Kabua, Minister of Finance David Paul, and Nitijela Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade Chair Joe Bejang. They were accompanied to the Presidential Office by Charge d’Affaires a.i. Anjanette Davis-Anjel of the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

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2025-06-03
President Lai welcomes President Hilda C. Heine of Republic of the Marshall Islands with military honors
President Lai Ching-te welcomed President Hilda C. Heine of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and her husband on the morning of June 3 with full military honors. In remarks, President Lai thanked President Heine and the people and government of the Marshall Islands for demonstrating such high regard for our nations’ diplomatic ties. The president said that over our 27 years of diplomatic relations, our cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, fisheries, education and training, and climate change has yielded many positive results. And moving ahead, he said, Taiwan will continue to deepen collaboration across all domains for mutual prosperity and growth. The welcome ceremony began at 10:30 a.m. in the plaza fronting the Presidential Office. President Lai and President Heine each delivered remarks after a 21-gun salute, the playing of the two countries’ national anthems, and a review of the military honor guard. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), it is a great pleasure to welcome President Heine, First Gentleman Thomas Kijiner, Jr., and their delegation with full military honors as they make this state visit to Taiwan. When I traveled to the Marshall Islands on a state visit last December, I was received with great warmth and courtesy. I once again thank President Heine and the people and government of the Marshall Islands for demonstrating such high regard for our nations’ diplomatic ties. Taiwan and the Marshall Islands share Austronesian cultural traditions, and we are like-minded friends. Throughout our 27 years of diplomatic relations, we have always engaged with each other in a spirit of reciprocal trust and mutual assistance. Our cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, fisheries, education and training, and climate change has yielded many positive results. This is President Heine’s first state visit to Taiwan since taking office for a second time. We look forward to engaging our esteemed guests in in-depth discussions on issues of common concern. And moving ahead, Taiwan will continue to deepen collaboration with the Marshall Islands across all domains for mutual prosperity and growth. In closing, I thank President Heine, First Gentleman Kijiner, and their entire delegation for visiting Taiwan. I wish you all a pleasant and successful trip. A transcript of President Heine’s remarks follows: Your Excellency President Lai Ching-te, Vice President [Bi-khim] Hsiao, honorable members of the cabinet, ambassadors, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen: It is my pleasure to extend warm greetings of iokwe on behalf of the people and the government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. I wish to also convey my appreciation to Your Excellency President Lai, for the hospitality and very warm welcome – kommol tata. This visit marks my seventh official state visit to this beautiful country. It’s a testament to my strong commitment to further deepening ties between the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of China (Taiwan). During this visit, I look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions with Your Excellency President Lai to further strengthen the bilateral relationship between our two nations and our peoples. For over a quarter-century, Taiwan has been a strong ally and friend to the Marshall Islands. Our partnership has thrived across many sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. Through Taiwan’s generous support and collaboration, we have made significant progress in improving the lives of our people, empowering our communities, and fostering sustainable growth. The Marshall Islands deeply values our partnership with Taiwan and appreciates Taiwan’s support over the years. Despite our small size and limited voice on the global stage, the Marshall Islands deeply cherishes our friendship with Taiwan, and to that end, I wish to reaffirm my government’s commitment to Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the United Nations system. Taiwan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. In light of current constraints in global affairs, it is now more urgent than ever that the international community of nations recognize the fundamental rights of the 23 million Taiwanese people and recognize Taiwan’s aspiration to engage fully in global affairs. It is with this in mind that I wish to reiterate to Your Excellency President Lai, the Taiwanese people, and the world that under my government, Marshall Islands will continue to acknowledge Taiwan’s contribution on the global stage and urge like-minded countries to advocate for Taiwan’s meaningful engagement in the international arena. In closing, may I once again extend our sincere appreciation to Your Excellency President Lai, the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), for your warm welcome. Also in attendance at the welcome ceremony were Charge d’Affaires a.i. Anjanette Davis-Anjel of the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman, and members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan.

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2025-05-29
President Lai attends 2025 Europe Day Dinner
On the evening of May 29, President Lai Ching-te attended the 2025 Europe Day Dinner. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan looks forward to further establishing institutionalized mechanisms with Europe for our trade and investment ties and hopes to take an innovative and diverse approach to sign an economic partnership agreement with the European Union, to provide a more transparent, stable, and predictable business environment for our enterprises. The president said that Taiwan will actively work alongside other democracies, including those in Europe, to jointly build resilient, promising non-red supply chains, and noted that Taiwan and Europe have endless potential for collaboration, whether it is in safeguarding freedom and democracy or advancing our economic and trade relationship. He expressed hope to further strengthen our partnership and work together toward global peace, stability, and prosperity. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: Chairman [Henry] Chang (張瀚書), thank you for the invitation, and congratulations on your second term. I’m confident that under your leadership, the ECCT [European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan] will build even more bridges for cooperation between Taiwan and Europe. I would also like to thank EETO [European Economic and Trade Office] Head [Lutz] Güllner and all the European country representatives stationed in Taiwan. Your hard work over the years has helped deepen Taiwan-Europe relations and brought about such fruitful cooperation. Thank you. This year we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. In 1950, then-French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed to create a European federation dedicated to preserving peace. The declaration symbolized a new flowering in the post-war era of democracy, unity, and cooperation. As we face the geopolitical challenges and drastic economic changes of today’s world, the Schuman Declaration still speaks to us profoundly. This year is also the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to advance cooperation with our democratic partners, and will join hands with Europe to build a partnership of even greater resilience and mutual trust. Europe is Taiwan’s third largest trading partner. It is also Taiwan’s largest source of foreign direct investment. Last year, bilateral trade between Taiwan and Europe totaled US$84.7 billion. This demonstrates our vibrant economic and trade ties and reflects the high levels of confidence our businesses have in each other’s markets and systems. We look forward to Taiwan and Europe further establishing institutionalized mechanisms for our trade and investment ties. And we hope to take an innovative and diverse approach to sign an economic partnership agreement with the EU, to provide a more transparent, stable, and predictable business environment for our enterprises. Today’s Taiwan has an internationally recognized democracy and a semiconductor industry vital to global security and prosperity. This enables us to play a key role in restructuring global democratic supply chains and the economic order. In particular, we see supply chains dominated by a new authoritarian bloc expanding their influence through non-market mechanisms, price subsidies, and monopolies on resources, as they seek global control of critical technologies and manufacturing capabilities. Their actions not only distort principles of market fairness, but also threaten the international community’s basic expectations for democracy, the rule of law, and corporate responsibility. In response, Taiwan will actively work alongside other democracies, including those in Europe, to jointly build resilient, promising non-red supply chains. We will also introduce an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. This is more than a proposal for economic cooperation; it is an alliance of shared values and advanced technology. Security in the Taiwan Strait and regional peace and stability have always been issues of mutual interest for Taiwan and Europe. So here today, on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I would like to thank the EU and European nations for continuing to take concrete actions in public support of peace and stability across the strait. Such actions are vital to regional security and prosperity. Taiwan will continue to bolster itself to achieve real peace through strength, and will work with democratic partners to safeguard freedom and democracy, thereby showing our determination for regional peace. At this critical time, Taiwan and Europe have endless potential for collaboration, whether it’s in safeguarding freedom and democracy or advancing our economic and trade relationship. I look forward to our joining hands at this strategic juncture to further strengthen our partnership and work together toward global peace, stability, and prosperity. Also in attendance at the event was British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones.

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2025-05-28
President Lai meets US delegation led by Senator Tammy Duckworth
On the afternoon of May 28, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by United States Senator Tammy Duckworth. In remarks, President Lai thanked the US Congress and government for their longstanding and bipartisan support for Taiwan. The president stated that Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. He pointed out that the Taiwan government has already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties and will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses. He then expressed hope of deepening Taiwan-US ties and creating more niches for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome this delegation led by Senator Duckworth, a dear friend of Taiwan. Senator Duckworth previously visited in May last year to convey congratulations after the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. Your bipartisan delegation was the first group from the US Senate that I met with as president. Today, you are visiting just after the first anniversary of my taking office, demonstrating the staunch support of the US and our deep friendship. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincere appreciation and greetings. And I invite you to come back and visit next year, the year after that, and every year. Taiwan and the US share the values of democracy and the rule of law and believe in free and open markets. Both sides embrace a common goal of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. I thank the US Congress and government for their longstanding, bipartisan, and steadfast support for Taiwan. In 2021, to help Taiwan overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Duckworth made a special trip here to announce that the US government would be donating vaccines to Taiwan. In recent years, Senator Duckworth has also promoted the TAIWAN Security Act, STAND with Taiwan Act, and Taiwan and America Space Assistance Act in the US Congress, all of which have further deepened Taiwan-US cooperation and steadily advanced our ties. For this, I express my deepest appreciation. I want to emphasize that the people of Taiwan have an unyielding determination to protect their homeland and free and democratic way of life. Over the past year, the government and private sector have been working together to enhance Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience. The government is committed to reforming national defense, and it has proposed prioritizing special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds three percent of GDP. This will continue to bolster Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US. In addition to jointly safeguarding regional peace and stability, we also aspire to deepen bilateral trade and economic ties. At the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, earlier this month, Taiwan’s delegation was once again the biggest delegation attending the event – proof positive of our close economic and trade cooperation. We have already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties. We will narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy and agricultural and other industrial products from the US. We will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses to stimulate industrial development on both sides, especially in such industries as national defense and shipbuilding. We therefore look forward to Congress passing the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act as soon as possible, as this would deepen Taiwan-US trade ties and create more niches for business. In closing, I once again thank Senator Duckworth for making the trip to Taiwan. Let us continue to work together to elevate Taiwan-US ties. I wish you a pleasant and successful visit. Senator Duckworth then delivered remarks, saying that she is happy to be back in Taiwan and that she wanted to make sure to come back just after President Lai’s one-year anniversary of taking office to show the dedication and the outstanding friendship that we have. She noted that because no matter who is in the White House, no matter which political party is in power in Washington, DC, she has always believed that if America wants to remain a leader on the global stage, it has to show up for friends like Taiwan. Senator Duckworth mentioned that in the years that she has been coming to Taiwan since pre-COVID times, she has seen a remarkable increase in participation in its defense and the support of the Taiwanese people for defending the homeland. She then thanked Taiwan for making the commitment to its self-defense, and also for being a partner with other nations around the world. The STAND with Taiwan Act, the senator noted, is so named because the US wants to stand side by side with Taiwan. Pointing out that Taiwan is an important leader in the Indo-Pacific and on the global stage, she reiterated that there is support on both sides of the aisle in Washington for Taiwanese democracy, and added that the people of Taiwan are showing that they are willing to shore up their own readiness. Senator Duckworth said that whether it is delivering vaccines to Taiwan or making sure that the US National Guard works with Taiwan’s reserve forces or even with its civilian emergency response teams, these are all important components to the ongoing partnership between our nations. Senator Duckworth indicated that there are many great opportunities moving forward beyond our military cooperation with one another. Whether it is in chip manufacturing, agricultural investments, shipbuilding, or in the healthcare field, those investments in both nations will facilitate stability and development in both our nations. She said that is why she wants to continue the Taiwan-US relationship, underlining that they are in it for the long haul. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

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2025-05-20
President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era. The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Harris Releases Statement Following the Appropriations Committee Release of the FY26 Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Bill
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Appropriations Committee released the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Bill. The bill will be considered in subcommittee tomorrow, June 5th at 10:30 a.m. The markup will be live-streamed and can be found on the Committee’s website.

Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Andy Harris said, “The Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill reflects a clear, conservative commitment to fiscal responsibility while ensuring that America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities remain a top priority. This legislation also prioritizes agricultural research, rural broadband expansion, and protects our food and drug supply, all while reducing the wasteful spending of the Biden Administration era. Just as importantly, by supporting fresh, affordable, American-grown food, this bill helps Make America Healthy Again. America’s farmers feed the world, and this bill ensures they have the investment, support, and resources they deserve — while reducing the burgeoning federal deficit.”

Chairman Tom Cole said, “The prosperity of our future golden age depends on the strength and perseverance of our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. This FY26 bill delivers targeted investments to protect U.S. agriculture and family farms, bolster agricultural research, and safeguard access to nutrition and health programs. From livestock and crops to pharmaceuticals and broadband, the legislation strengthens the agriculture economy and infrastructure across the nation. Just as our producers responsibly tend to the land, Chairman Harris has stewarded this legislation to protect core duties while upholding fiscal responsibility.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Bill

The Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $25.523 billion, which is $1.163 billion (4.2%) below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level.

The bill prioritizes agencies and programs that protect our nation’s food and drug supply; support America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities; and ensure low-income Americans have access to nutrition programs. The bill is fiscally responsible and refocuses programs on their core mission while putting the health, safety, and prosperity of American producers and consumers first.

Key Takeaways

Champions U.S. farmers, agriculture, and rural communities by:
- Continuing critical investments in agriculture research, rural broadband, and animal and plant health programs.
- Providing funds to ensure the safety of food, drugs, and medical devices.
- Ensuring low-income Americans have access to nutrition programs.
- Reining in harmful regulations proposed during the Biden Administration that dictate how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals.
- Increasing resources for the Food Safety and Inspection Service to fund frontline meat and poultry inspectors and bolster support for state inspection programs.
- Providing a rider to block any revised energy standards for newly constructed homes financed by USDA that would increase costs for rural, lower-income households that was proposed during the Biden Administration.
Supports the Trump Administration and mandate of the American people by:
- Allocating the President’s requested total funding of $6.8 billion for the FDA to keep food, drugs, and devices safe and for initiatives to Make America Healthy Again.
- Delivering $1.15 billion for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, which is a priority in the President’s budget to protect American agriculture from foreign pests and diseases.
- Codifying President Trump’s executive orders by prohibiting funding for DEI activities and ending federal censorship of free speech.
- Retaining the gene editing provision, which prohibits the “editing” of heritable genes or altering of genes that can be passed on to offspring.
- Maintaining “Buy American” provisions that maximize the federal government’s use of services, goods, products, and materials produced and offered in the United States.
- Closing the hemp loophole that has resulted in the proliferation of unregulated intoxicating hemp products, including Delta-8 and hemp flower, being sold online and in gas stations across the country.
Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:
- Addressing foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land by improving the tracking system of foreign-owned land and adding the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to review agricultural transactions, including purchases made by China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.
- Directing USDA to provide transparency into research funding spent collaborating with foreign governments including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.
- Continuing a program to increase inspection of foreign drug manufacturing facilities in China and India.
- Providing adequate funding for land-grant universities to conduct agricultural research to ensure American producers can compete with China.
Safeguards American taxpayer dollars and preserves core functions by:
- Capturing DOGE savings by reducing salaries and expenses where appropriate to account for staffing reductions and reducing grant programs that housed canceled grants.
- Eliminating funding for the Biden-era Rural Partners Network initiative.
- Including no funds for climate hubs or climate corps.
- Eliminating funds for the Office of Urban Agriculture.
A summary of the bill is available here.
Bill text is available here.

For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

MIL OSI USA News –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Graves, Budzinski Introduce Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) and Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) reintroduced the bipartisan Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act to help struggling rural hospitals stay open and continue serving their communities. Rising costs and falling Medicare reimbursement rates have pushed many to the brink—this bill gives them the lifeline they need.

“Falling Medicare reimbursement rates have been hammering rural hospitals for years,” said Congressman Graves. “In the last 15 years, more than 150 rural hospitals have closed, and hundreds more are at risk. When these hospitals shut down, families lose access to care, good-paying jobs disappear, and entire communities suffer. I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan bill to make commonsense reforms, keep rural hospitals open, and ensure folks can get the care they need without having to drive hours to find it.”

“Rural hospitals are a lifeline for the folks they serve. But with healthcare costs rising and outdated Medicare repayment rules, many have been forced to close their doors,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “The Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act offers a real solution to help rural hospitals become more financially solvent so they can continue to serve our communities. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Graves to make sure that every American can access quality care – no matter where they live.”

Since 2010, more than 150 rural hospitals across the country have closed their doors—forcing patients to travel further to get the care they need and leaving others to put off necessary healthcare. Today, 453 rural hospitals are currently operating at levels similar to those that have shut down over the last decade.

The Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act will reverse this dangerous trend by:

• Eliminating Medicare sequestration for rural hospitals,

• Making Medicare telehealth service enhancements permanent for Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics, and

• Making permanent increased Medicare payments for rural ground ambulance services.

You can read the bill here.

You can read highlights of the bill here.

What They Are Saying:

“The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) applauds Representatives Graves and Budzinski for introducing the Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act. Since 2010, 190 rural hospitals have closed their doors or stopped providing inpatient care, leaving the majority of those communities without access to care. The provisions in this important legislation will support the rural health infrastructure and ensure that the 60 million Americans who call rural America home will maintain local access to the care they need.” – Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer, National Rural Health Association

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and ASEAN launch CLARE-ASEAN to boost inclusive urban climate resilience
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

World news story

UK and ASEAN launch CLARE-ASEAN to boost inclusive urban climate resilience

The programme will run through 2026, focusing on co-developing solutions with marginalised communities and supporting ASEAN climate policy efforts.
The UK and ASEAN launched the Supporting Socially Inclusive Climate Adaptation & Resilience in ASEAN (CLARE-ASEAN) initiative on 4 June 2025 in Jakarta. The programme uses new evidence and innovation to promote socially-inclusive urban resilience to climate change in the Southeast Asia region.

The CLARE-ASEAN is a regional programme under the UK’s flagship Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CLARE) research framework, funded about 90% by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and co-funded by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The initiative will run through 2026 and aims to generate evidence-based, inclusive solutions to climate challenges in Southeast Asian cities.

The UK Ambassador to ASEAN, Sarah Tiffin, said:

Climate resilience is a pivotal investment for Southeast Asia’s future. The UK’s support through CLARE-ASEAN aims to help ASEAN Member States tackle climate risks at scale—by strengthening partnerships among researchers, policymakers, and local communities.

CLARE-ASEAN will focus on co-developing climate solutions with marginalised communities, producing tailored research and policy briefs to support ASEAN decision-making, and contributing to the forthcoming IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities.

The programme is closely aligned with the ASEAN Working Group on Climate Change (AWGCC) Action Plan and responds to the ASEAN State of Climate Change Report, which identifies urban areas—home to more than half of the region’s population—as a critical sector for adaptation efforts.

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Published 5 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Regenerated Beijing courtyards blend culture, modernity

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

Editor’s note: A cultural and ecological renewal project at Daji Xiang in Beijing’s Xuanwu cultural core area has brought new life to the city’s historic courtyard neighborhoods. Home to cultural landmarks such as the Former Residence of Kang Youwei and the former offices of the Weekly Review, Daji Xiang now features restored courtyards, interactive exhibitions, low-carbon gardens and revitalized public spaces. Through meticulous restoration and creative programming, the site showcases a new model of urban regeneration that harmonizes heritage preservation with contemporary living.

Sculptures symbolizing the fusion of cultural heritage and modern creativity stand in the courtyard of a restored siheyuan courtyard house at Daji Xiang in Beijing, June 4, 2025. [Photo by Liu Caiyi/China.org.cn]

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MIL OSI China News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Gallery, white-stone porch and fragments of painting: new elements have been added to the protected area of the hospital building with the church of the Ivanovsky Monastery ensemble

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The specialists updated the subject of protection of the hospital building with the Church of St. Elizabeth of the Ivanovsky Monastery ensemble (now the St. John the Baptist Stavropegic Convent). The historical building in Maly Ivanovsky Lane (house 2a, building 1) has the status of a cultural heritage site of federal significance.

“The two-story hospital building was built of brick in the same style as other monastery buildings almost 200 years ago. It is very important to preserve its original appearance, facade design and architectural decor. Experts updated the subject of protection, including such valuable elements as porch stairs in front of the entrances, platforms and steps of stairs made of natural stone, coffered ceilings, choirs on the second floor, stucco, adhesive ornamental paintings in the interior of the temple and other elements that form the historical appearance of the architectural masterpiece. All details included in the subject of protection are subject to mandatory preservation during any work on the restoration of the monument,” said the head of the capital’s Department of Cultural Heritage.

Alexey Emelyanov.

The experts carried out a great deal of scientific research to study the building’s facades and interiors. Based on the data they obtained, they supplemented the subject of protection by including an extensive list of previously unaccounted valuable architectural details.

The subject of protection also includes the white-stone profiled plinth with vents, the portal with a cornice and a shrine of the southern entrance, arched window niches, window sill panels, false round windows, the historical inter-floor staircase and its decorative design, molded Corinthian column capitals, plaster cornices and other elements of the architectural and artistic decoration of the interior.

History of the Ivanovo Monastery

The project for the monastery complex was developed in 1859 by the academician of the Russian Academy of Arts, architect Mikhail Bykovsky. The hospital building was erected in 1860–1861. The ceremonial laying of the foundation stone for the Church of St. Elizabeth next to it took place at the same time.

The unique architectural ensemble of the monastery is built in the complex style of the Italian Renaissance, medieval monasteries of Western Europe, Russian classicism and Orthodox monastery architecture. Since its foundation in the 15th century, its walls have seen many events. As a result, the Ivanovsky Monastery practically ceased to exist.

The revival of the monastery began in the mid-19th century thanks to the famous Moscow merchant family Mazurin. Elizaveta Makarova-Zubacheva, née Mazurina, and her daughter-in-law Maria Mazurina, who continued her work, donated money for the restoration.

The revival plan envisaged not only the resumption of monastic life, but also the provision of medical services and charity. All work in the monastery was completed by 1877, and it was preparing to accept its first inhabitants. But these plans were not destined to come true: during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, a place was needed to temporarily house the wounded. The choice fell on the still uninhabited Ivanovsky Monastery. All wounded and sick officers arriving in Moscow were sent there.

The ceremonial consecration of the monastery took place only in 1879. There were many who wanted to enter it. In 1917, there were 44 nuns in the monastery, and more than 200 novices and residents on probation.

After the October Revolution of 1917, the Ivanovsky Monastery was one of the first in Moscow to be closed. For many years, its premises were occupied by institutions of the USSR Ministry of Internal Affairs. The monastery cathedral housed the repository of the Central State Archive of the Moscow Region. Both clergy houses were occupied by a sewing workshop, and the hospital building with the Church of St. Elizabeth and the Chapel of John the Baptist housed the district services of Mosenergo.

Bust of Alighieri, submarine, historical lanterns: in which Moscow parks can you find interesting monuments Mosaic floors and openwork balconies: what other valuable details are included in the subject of protection of the “Grandfather Durov’s Corner”

In 1992, the territory and buildings of the former Ivanovsky Monastery were returned to the Russian Orthodox Church. This marked the beginning of a new period in the history of the monastery. On September 11, 2002, on the monastery’s patronal feast day, the first bishop’s service was held, and on November 9, 2002, a cross was installed on the dome of the John the Baptist Monastery.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154841073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Residents of TiNAO were reminded of opportunities for leisure and additional education for children

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Currently, there are 18 children’s art schools, six cultural centers and 10 libraries of the capital in the Troitsky and Novomoskovsky administrative districts. Department of CultureYoung residents can master folk instruments and programming, try their hand at aerial gymnastics and blogging, create cartoons or perform on a professional stage.

From aerial gymnastics to programming

At the Desna Culture House, children can learn the basics of playing the gusli, domra, and balalaika, as well as learn more about folk music, hone their theatrical skills, work on diction, articulation, and breathing. In addition, children of all ages can play chess, checkers, and ping-pong.

Sports section lovers are welcome at the Vatutinki cultural center: taekwondo teaches the art of self-defense without weapons, the rhythmic gymnastics studio develops plasticity and coordination, and also teaches the basics of choreography and aerial gymnastics. Schoolchildren can also learn aircraft modeling or forest orientation together with the local history quest club. The institution regularly hosts creative master classes for children of different ages.

The Klenovo Community Center is suitable for the most creative kids: here they study pottery and carpentry, and also create their own musical groups under the guidance of teachers. There is an opportunity to learn the basics of blogging – try your hand at writing text blogs and learn how to correctly formulate ideas, attract the attention of subscribers and competently convey information. In Library No. 259, children can master mental arithmetic, costume design, gain knowledge of the history of writing and literature.

For those interested in linguistics, the Mikhailovskoye Community Center offers classes in Chinese and English from scratch. The institution offers the opportunity to learn theater and choreography, as well as various arts and crafts techniques. You can study English in Library No. 260 (for children aged seven to 12) and the art studio section (for children aged four to 12).

And in the Peresvet House of Culture, young guests can become actors of a real musical theater, try themselves in the role of an animator, create a unique cartoon, master programming skills and safe work on the Internet, and also learn to play a six-string guitar under the guidance of an experienced teacher. You can learn visual programming and graphic design, learn more about the Python programming language in Library No. 262.

The Yubileiny Community Center gives everyone the opportunity to learn and try out lace-making techniques, develop their vocal skills, and master the basics of theater and choreography.

Quality education close to home

The Kyiv Children’s Music School has everything necessary for an effective educational process. Classrooms are fully equipped with musical instruments, special equipment, furniture, and the staff maintains a high level of training of students and education of musically gifted children. At school, children can receive additional education in the field of musical art. Today, they teach how to play the piano, violin, button accordion and accordion, guitar, flute, clarinet and saxophone. In addition, you can try yourself in one of the creative groups: the boys’ vocal ensemble “Kaleidoscope”, the ensemble “Raduga” and the vocal ensemble “Vesnushki”. The groups regularly take part in concerts at the district and city level.

You can learn to sing, dance and draw at the Children’s School of Arts in the city of Moskovsky. For 50 years, the institution has carefully preserved and developed traditions in the field of musical and aesthetic education for children. The school has three departments: art, choreography and music. Creative groups and soloists annually win competitions and festivals of various levels. In 2024, a student of the academic vocal class became a first-degree laureate of the Moscow Mayor’s grants in the field of culture and art.

The Voskresenskaya Children’s Art School operates in TiNAO. It has departments of choral singing, piano, academic vocals, guitar, violin and an art department, and also holds classes in choreographic creativity and early aesthetic development for children aged six. Students can join the Melnitsa choreographic ensemble, the Radost vocal ensemble, the guitar ensemble, the Elegy senior choir, the Nastroenie junior choir and the Andante concert choir. The groups regularly take part in performances at the district and city level, as well as in all-Russian and international events.

In the children’s art school “Children of the Blue Bird”, training for children aged six to 17 is conducted in three areas of creative activity: fine, theatrical and choreographic arts. The institution employs the choreographic group “Eroshki”, the folk dance ensemble “Rus” and the vocal ensemble “Rosinochka”. The school’s students regularly become winners of prestigious city, all-Russian and international creative competitions.

In the Shchapovskaya Children’s School of Arts “Harmony” you can learn to play the piano, string, folk and wind instruments, master academic vocals, pop and jazz singing and painting. Students regularly become laureates and diploma winners of competitions and festivals of various levels.

There are four departments in the Mikhailovo-Yartsevskaya Children’s Art School: music (piano, button accordion, accordion, violin, saxophone, clarinet, recorder, guitar and balalaika), choreography, folklore and art. The choreographic ensemble “Svetelitsa”, the folk song ensemble “Larchik” and the art group “Risovashki” have repeatedly become laureates of city, regional and international competitions. There is a department of early aesthetic development (drawing, singing and dancing), as well as an off-budget department for children and adults.

The Troitsk Children’s School of Arts named after M.I. Glinka implements programs for teaching piano, folk, string, wind and percussion instruments, as well as choral singing, choreography, painting and theoretical disciplines. The orchestra of Russian folk instruments, the classical dance ensemble “Grand Pa”, the ballroom dance group, the senior choir Prima Vera, the middle choir “Ocean of smiles”, the vocal and choral ensemble “Aquamarine”, the senior chamber ensemble “Prima”, the boys’ choir, the string instruments ensemble and the jazz orchestra have been created and successfully perform at competitions, concerts and festivals here. The high level of training of students and the professionalism of teachers are confirmed from year to year by successful performances at district, regional and all-Russian festivals and competitions.

Young artists study at the Troitsk Children’s Art School. Academic drawing, painting, composition and sculpture are taught here. Students can also try their hand at such exciting areas as engraving, computer graphics and animation. The history of Russian art and world art culture is mandatory. The institution holds competitions, olympiads, master classes, and organizes educational excursions to museums and exhibition halls. Every year, graduates of the school enter art colleges and universities, becoming artists, architects and designers.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154867073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Breakthrough in Biomedicine: Polytechnic Project Receives International Award

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

Project Biomedical Image and Data Analysis Laboratories The Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology received the international university award in the field of artificial intelligence and big data “Gravity” in the nomination “Breakthrough scientific research and development”.

The competition was held in 2025, organized by the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Tomsk State University and the University Consortium of Data Scientists Association. This is the largest annual event in the country dedicated to popularizing the most significant university projects in the field of AI and introducing breakthrough technologies into leading sectors of the economy.

SPbPU scientists presented the project “Decoding the Brain Code: AI Platform for Multimodal Analysis of Neural Data”. It involves using AI models for multi-level and multimodal analysis of data on the structure of synapses, neurons and neural networks of the brain, as well as their relationship with behavior and cognitive functions.

The project is aimed at solving complex problems and finding new research hypotheses in neurobiology and medicine. The main stages include pre-processing and image quality improvement, automatic segmentation of biological structures, data analysis in research tasks and preclinical trials, as well as the development of LLM adapted for the industry. For the first time in Russia, we have developed and applied large fundamental models for analyzing significant arrays of data on neuronal activity, – said the head of the laboratory Ekaterina Pchitskaya.

The project was implemented by a team of 11 people – research associates and programmers of the laboratory, research engineers and laboratory assistants, postgraduates and students of the IBSiB. Representatives of the Physics and Mechanics Institute also participated: Vyacheslav Chukanov, Alexander Sachuk, Ivan Zolin, Darya Smirnova, Daniil Baev, Evgeny Gerasimov, Georgy Raev, Vyacheslav Karasev, Grigory Chevykalov, Vladimir Skvortsov.

We are proud of our young researchers who are constantly searching and offering non-standard solutions to current problems. It is gratifying that their efforts in the field of applying artificial intelligence technologies have been noted at such a high expert level and will receive a moral and material incentive for further development, – noted Vice-Rector for Research at SPbPU Yuri Fomin.

The award ceremony took place at the scientific congress of the University Consortium of Big Data Researchers. Participants presented research and applied projects in the field of data analysis and AI. Ivan Zolin, a programmer at the SPbPU Laboratory of Biomedical Image and Data Analysis, presented a report entitled “Neural Networks for Improving Microscopic Images in Biomedicine”. He presented a cloud-based complex of fluorescence microscopy processing models, including TriDeFusion denoising and deconvolution, accessible through a user-friendly web interface.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Atos to deliver key IT services and applications for UEFA Nations League Finals™ 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Press Release

Atos to deliver key IT services and applications for UEFA Nations League Finals™ 2025

Paris, France – 5 June, 2025 – Atos, the Official Information Technology Partner of UEFA National Team Football, will deliver key IT services and applications support for the UEFA Nations League Finals™(UNLF) 2025, taking place from June 4 to June 8, 2025, in Germany. Atos’ expertise will once again support hundreds of millions of fans worldwide to share the electrifying experience of one of the highest profile football tournaments.

To provide the best experience for all stakeholders, from the European football family to fans and media, Atos will be responsible for managing core IT planning and operations systems all requiring the highest level of reliability, efficiency and security. These solutions include:
- Event Management systems including accreditation, access control solutions, competitions solutions, radio communication and service desk services.
- Diffusion system like the football service platform, the mobile app, the website including some embedded gaming functionalities such as match predictor and quiz about competitions.
- End-to-end cybersecurity services, from compliance and threat intelligence to on-the-ground and hybrid-cloud security.
Since the inception of their partnership in 2022, Atos have assisted UEFA on a day-to-day basis to manage, improve, and optimize its complex technology landscape and in facing new technology challenges. In a new data consumption era, large sport associations need to keep pace with the expectations of their audiences, especially the youth fan base, who are craving for more personalization, technology and data, engagement and real-time information. To meet these challenges, Atos and UEFA have been striving to continuously introduce innovations driving immersive fan experiences with secure, real-time data and deliver best-in class, AI-powered IT solutions.

Atos, helped make the UEFA EURO 2024™ a tremendous success, supporting over 200 applications, over 6 million app download, almost 1.3 billion email and app push notifications, and a cumulated live audience of over 5 billion. Atos and UEFA also introduced innovative applications like the Football Service Platform, providing data and statistics such as results, line-ups, live match events, players status and ranking of all UEFA teams, transforming all stakeholders’ experience.

The entire Atos team, from the IT Command Center of UEFA in Nyon (Switzerland) to the delivery centers in Madrid and Barcelona (Spain), as well as Egypt, Poland, Romania and France are committed on daily basis to making sure UEFA is well-prepared to deliver exceptional experiences to fans around the world.

“We are excited to feel the competition pressure building up as we enter the last stages of UEFA Nations League preparation. Our team is working tirelessly to make sure we once again deliver a secure, flawless and innovative service to UEFA and provide all football fans with an unforgettable tournament experience.” said Nacho Moros, Head of Atos Major Events.

“Since the beginning of our partnership with Atos in 2022, we have been making advances in the quality of services we are introducing and providing to all the Football stakeholders. We are confident that the 2025 edition of the Nations League will once again leverage the most advanced technologies to provide all football fans an amazing experience”, stated Hosni Ajala, Chief of ICT at UEFA.

Atos has been serving its partners and customers through a dedicated in-house sports and major events division (“Major Events”) for over 3 decades, giving it an unmatched experience and the flexibility to serve its customers regardless of their exposure, size and scale. From global events to local competitions, Atos consistently strives to deliver technology excellence to its entire customer base.

Atos has been involved with the Olympic Movement since 1992 and the Paralympic Movement since 2002 and is the Official Digital Technology Partner of the European Olympic Committees, as well as the official Digital partner for Special Olympics International. The company is also the Official Information Technology Partner of UEFA National Team Football. Most recently, Atos has been instrumental in delivering successful leading-edge IT services for iconic events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 or inspiring events such as Invictus Games Vancouver 2025 or the Special Olympics Torino Winter Games 2025.

To learn more about Atos solutions for sporting events and major events, visit Atos Major event.

***

About Atos Group

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

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

Press contact

Laurent Massicot – laurent.massicot@atos.net – 33 (0)7 69 48 01 80

Attachment
- PR Global – Atos to deliver key IT services and applications for UEFA UNLF 2025
The MIL Network –
June 5, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Market – Regional resilience but weaker main centres in May – Cotality

Source: Cotality

Property values in Aotearoa New Zealand edged down by -0.1% in May and remain -1.6% below a year ago.

The latest slight fall in values on the Cotality hedonic Home Value Index comes after some previous months of modest gains, with the national median now at $818,132. That remains 16.3% below the January 2022 peak.

Values were patchy around the main centres in May, with Kirikiriroa Hamilton inching up by +0.1%, but Ōtepoti Dunedin and Tauranga both edging down by -0.1%. Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland dipped by -0.3%, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington by -0.4%, and after a period of resilience, Ōtautahi Christchurch fell by -0.8%.

Cotality NZ (formerly CoreLogic) Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said May’s figures were a reminder that any emerging housing upturn could well remain slow and variable for the time-being, both from month to month and across regions.
“Lower mortgage rates are clearly going to be bolstering households’ confidence as well as their wallets, and there were signs of higher loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratio lending activity in the latest Reserve Bank figures.”

“But it’s not one-way traffic. After all, housing isn’t necessarily affordable in absolute terms, while the economy and labour market remain subdued too. Indeed, filled jobs edged lower again in April. These are certainly restraints on buyers’ willingness to push ahead with property deals or to pay higher prices.”

“May’s drop in values at the national level was fairly trivial and could be reversed next month. But anybody who was anticipating a sharp or widespread increase in property values as we got further into 2025 continues to be disappointed.

National and Main Centres

Change in dwelling values

Region

Month

Quarter

Annual

From peak

Median value

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

-0.3%

-0.6%

-2.7%

-21.4%

$1,073,222

Kirikiriroa Hamilton

0.1%

1.0%

1.4%

-10.5%

$754,800

Tauranga

-0.1%

-0.5%

-1.0%

-16.3%

$918,320

Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington*

-0.4%

-0.2%

-5.2%

-23.9%

$797,126

Ōtautahi Christchurch

-0.8%

-0.2%

0.6%

-6.0%

$695,117

Ōtepoti Dunedin

-0.1%

-0.8%

-0.9%

-10.9%

$610,669

Aotearoa New Zealand

-0.1%

-0.1%

-1.6%

-16.3%

$818,132

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

Region

Change in dwelling values

Month

Quarter

Annual

From peak

Median value

Rodney

0.4%

0.5%

-2.5%

-19.6%

$1,227,830

Te Raki Paewhenua North Shore

-1.0%

-1.6%

-1.4%

-18.4%

$1,283,925

Waitakere

0.0%

-0.6%

-1.7%

-23.3%

$940,295

Auckland City

-0.3%

-0.9%

-4.0%

-22.2%

$1,149,279

Manukau

-0.3%

-0.1%

-2.6%

-22.6%

$1,000,134

Papakura

-0.6%

-0.8%

-1.8%

-22.0%

$840,185

Franklin

0.2%

1.3%

0.1%

-19.3%

$969,887

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

-0.3%

-0.6%

-2.7%

-21.4%

$1,073,222

May was a patchy month for the various sub-markets across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, with Rodney recording a +0.4% rise, Franklin up by +0.2%, and Waitakere holding steady. But Auckland City and Manukau both fell by -0.3%, with Papakura (-0.6%) and North Shore (-1.0%) registering even larger drops.

Franklin and Rodney remain higher than three months ago, but the rest of Auckland’s sub-markets have seen values drop since February (albeit only -0.1% in Manukau).

Mr Davidson said, “Auckland is a pretty good example of the wider forces that are playing out across the housing market at present. In an environment where lower interest rates are being counteracted by other restraints, the tr

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 5, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sixth project approved under Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels and Guesthouses as Youth Hostels

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) approved the sixth project under the Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels and Guesthouses as Youth Hostels to the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (TWGHs).

To meet young people’s aspirations of having their own living space, apart from continuing to fully fund non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to construct youth hostels on under-utilised sites through the Youth Hostel Scheme (YHS), the current-term Government expanded the YHS in 2023 to subsidise NGOs to rent suitable hotels and guesthouses for use as youth hostels. The current-term Government is committed to taking forward the youth hostel projects. The number of hostel places launched under the YHS, including this project by the TWGHs, has increased significantly from about 80 when the current-term Government took office to over 3 700.

The sixth youth hostel project approved under the Subsidy Scheme is named the TN Residence, which will be launched by the TWGHs and the Hong Kong Ferry (Holdings) Company Limited. The project is located at 280 Tung Chau Street, Sham Shui Po, providing up to 676 hostel places. The TWGHs has introduced the concept of a “youth vertical community” for the project, and it is hoped that in addition to enjoying their own living space, youth tenants could also interact with other tenants in the common areas, thereby establishing a social network with mutual assistance and trust. Another feature of the project is the V-Mile programme, which encourages youth tenants to actively participate in value-added activities and community services recognised by the TWGHs or organise activities on their own. This aims to facilitate their personal development, cultivate their physical and mental well-being and foster proper values, so that they could achieve self-enrichment, widen their personal and social networks, and even contribute to society. For details about the project and the means of application, please visit the website of the TN Residence (tnresidence.tungwahcsd.org).

A HYAB spokesperson said, “The TN Residence is the third project under the Subsidy Scheme located in Kowloon. It is in close proximity to railway stations, and situated within the cultural and creative industry hub with many specialty shops and restaurants nearby. This project provides young people who aspire to have their own living space an opportunity to realise their ideal way of life, and enables them to proactively equip themselves and formulate a better plan for the future during their stay. Furthermore, the HYAB will set up a physical platform for interaction for members of Youth Link in the adjacent Nam Cheong District Community Centre and Tung Chau Street Temporary Market. It is envisaged that the additional activity space for young people would create synergy with the youth hostel project. The TN Residence fully demonstrates the power of the tripartite collaboration among the Government, the business sector and the community. We are delighted that the Subsidy Scheme has gained support from society and we will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders who share our vision to take forward youth hostel projects.”

Details about the Subsidy Scheme, including the guidelines for applications and the application forms, have been uploaded onto the HYAB website (www.hyab.gov.hk/en/policy_responsibilities/Social_Harmony_and_Civic_Education/youth_hostel_scheme.htm). Relevant organisations can submit their applications to the HYAB by post, email or other means.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua City Council makes budget decisions

Source: Porirua City Council

After listening to feedback from residents Porirua City Council has made changes to next year’s budget, including not increasing paid parking charges in the city or Cannons Creek pool entry fees.

The Council’s Te Puna Kōrero committee met this morning to deliberate on the Annual Plan, which sets the city’s budget for the coming financial year.

When preparing the draft Annual Plan, the starting point for this year’s rates increases had increased from the planned 10 per cent to 15 per cent, due to cost pressures.

Council acknowledged this wasn’t sustainable for households and businesses, so took a hard look at internal operations to find cost savings. This process brought the new starting point for the average rates increase down to 6.75 per cent.

Council consulted on five options, which if adopted would decrease the rates increase even further. A total of 343 submissions were received, with a mix of opinions on the items on the table.

Committee Chair Councillor Ross Leggett thanked everyone who made submissions and shared their thoughts.

“Your feedback is shown in this paper and we do read and appreciate all of it,” he said.

Of the options consulted on, the committee voted to discontinue the Chamber of Commerce grant and increase Council’s building consent hourly rate.

They voted against increasing the paid parking hourly rate, putting up Cannons Creek Pool entry fees, and discontinuing the Event Investment Programme.

With these changes, the average rates increase for residential properties for the 2025/26 year will be 6.39 per cent, subject to confirmation by the full Council on 26 June.

Mayor Anita Baker said everything possible was done to keep rates increases as low as possible.

“Nobody wants the big increases we saw last year and we know the community is struggling. The organisation has done a deep dive internally and made significant cuts that got us to a lower starting point than planned.

“In terms of the further cuts we could have made, we asked for feedback and we’ve listened to our people. That’s why we are not supporting some of the ideas that were on the table.”

Councillors spoke about the community benefits of swimming pools, the life that events bring to the city, and the need to support local businesses through keeping parking charges as they are.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua backs regional approach to water services delivery

Source: Porirua City Council

Porirua City Council’s Te Puna Kōrero committee has endorsed a joint regional approach for water services delivery.

As part of the Local Water Done Well reform, the Government has mandated that councils must review how water services are delivered.

Te Puna Kōrero met this morning to deliberate and made a recommendation to Council, after consulting on two options for a future water services delivery model – a new water services organisation, or a modified version of the status quo.

They voted unanimously to recommend that Council should jointly establish and co-own a new water organisation with Upper Hutt City Council, Hutt City Council, Wellington City Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council.

Under this model, a multi-council-owned water organisation will take ownership of public water assets. The alternative was a modified version of the current Wellington Water model, where councils retain ownership while Wellington Water manages water services.

That recommendation will need to be endorsed at the full Council meeting on 26 June.

All five councils are independently making decisions by the end of June on how to proceed.

Officers will then develop a joint Water Services Delivery Plan and foundation documents for the new organisation, which must be lodged with the Department of Internal Affairs by 3 September 2025.

The intention is that Council will transfer its assets, debt, liabilities and services in relation to drinking water, wastewater and stormwater to the new organisation by1 July 2026.

In making today’s decision, the committee unanimously supported an amendment from Councillor Geoff Hayward, setting out the principles Porirua City wants reflected in the new organisation’s foundation documents.

These include recognising water as a public good, safeguarding households from disconnection, value for money, fair pricing, supporting local employment, and upholding Te Mana o te Wai.

Porirua Mayor Anita Baker said like many parts of the country, Porirua’s water networks faced significant challenges.

“We have old pipes that cause water leaks, contribute to water shortages and are a main contributor to pollution in the harbour.

“While we’ve poured all the money we can into funding water assets, we simply can’t address these challenges on our own. Doing nothing is not an option, and we believe the new model is the best way forward for Porirua.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: PSA – Petition launched to save Rauaroha – Segar House psychotherapy service

Source: PSA

The PSA is launching a petition today in partnership with the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists in support of continued funding for a specialist mental health facility serving patients with complex needs.

Rauaroha – Segar House received notice in May that Te Whatu Ora is considering its disestablishment, 50 years after it was first opened in Auckland.

Designed expressly to meet complex needs, the care at Segar House is multi-disciplinary, with a psychiatrist, psychologists, psychotherapists and an art therapist on staff.

“We’re devastated, gutted really, that the Government is looking at cutting Segar House,” an anonymous clinician who works at the centre said.

“The people we work with have highly complex health histories, with more than one diagnosed issue, as well as horrific early trauma. They can only come to us when they’ve already exhausted all other options – we are the last in the line for them.

“Without us, frankly, we’d already have lost these clients to suicide.”

The wrap-around service provided by Segar House puts an emphasis on relationships and group social interactions to build confidence and ensure graduating clients can live full, social lives in the community.

The proposal put forward by Te Toka Tumai, the Central Auckland arm of Te Whatu Ora, argued that the service was under-utilised, and that its resources were better used elsewhere.

Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons says the under-utilisation was down to overly restrictive referring rules that meant clients had to exhaust every other option for care, even if their condition otherwise met criteria.

“The clinicians who work at Segar House are in the unusual position for New Zealand in that they’d like to care for more patients, not less.

“After continued pressure from staff, the centre ran a trial last year where they dropped certain referral rules, and unsurprisingly, received more clients who were a good fit for their service.

“The under-utilisation of Segar House has been entirely created by Te Toka Tumai, who have then turned around and blamed the facility for it.

“Cutting this highly specialist, completely unique service that has helped so many people makes zero sense. Surely the answer here would be to retain the service and change the referral rules, rather than cut it altogether.

https://www.together.org.nz/save_rauaroha_segar_house_psychotherapy_service

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health, and community groups.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 5, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 launches globally with shortages expected amid pent-up demand

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Nintendo’s 7974.T Switch 2 launched on Thursday and is widely expected to be in short supply globally amid pent-up demand for the more powerful next-generation gaming device.

“The level of demand seems to be sky-high,” said Serkan Toto, founder of the Kantan Games consultancy.

The Switch launched in 2017 and followed the underperforming Wii U. The home-portable device became a juggernaut with games including two “The Legend of Zelda” titles and COVID-19 pandemic breakout hit “Animal Crossing: New Horizons”.

The Switch 2 bears many similarities with its predecessor but offers a larger screen and improved graphics and debuts with titles including “Mario Kart World”.

“The much larger audience of Switch users should translate to stronger adoption in the opening part of its lifecycle,” said Piers Harding-Rolls, an analyst at Ampere Analysis.

“Nintendo is better prepared this time around” to deal with the high demand, he said.

The launch of the $499.99 Switch 2 is a test of Nintendo’s supply chain management during U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war.

Nintendo last month forecast sales of 15 million Switch 2 units during the current financial year.

President Shuntaro Furukawa said Nintendo will strengthen production capacity to respond to strong demand and focus on sales promotion in an effort to exceed the forecast.

The company, which is known for conservative forecasts, also expects to sell 4.5 million Switch units.

Nintendo said it received 2.2 million applications for its Switch 2 sales lottery on its My Nintendo Store in Japan. Pre-orders at Target TGT.N sold out in less than two hours.

“You are looking at weeks or months until you can walk into a store and buy a Switch 2,” said Toto of Kantan Games.

Investor expectations for the new device are similarly lofty.

Nintendo’s shares are trading near highs and have gained almost 30% this year.

Concerns include whether momentum for the Switch 2 will be sustained after hardcore gamers have upgraded.

“The volume of first-party games on offer at launch isn’t as strong as it could be, so some more casual users may wait and see how the games available build over the next one to two years before making the leap,” said Ampere’s Harding-Rolls.

Ampere forecasts Switch 2 sales to exceed 100 million units in 2030. Nintendo has sold 152 million Switch units in total.

(Reuters)

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow robots master more and more specialties — Sergei Sobyanin

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Moscow companies are increasing the production of robots. They are mastering more and more specialties, including loader, farmer and storekeeper, replacing people in hazardous production areas, and also relieving them of routine tasks. Sergei Sobyanin spoke about some interesting developments in his blog.

“Moscow’s robotics industry continues to develop dynamically: the production of automated systems is demonstrating rapid and confident growth. In the first quarter of 2025, the volume of production of machinery and equipment, including robots, increased by 14.3 percent compared to the same period last year,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

Industrial robots

TechnoRed develops and manufactures ready-made box robotic systems, including automated welding complexes and robotic machine operators. In addition, the company produces palletizers (packaging machines) capable of sorting, moving and compactly stacking products. They are in demand at more than 550 Russian enterprises. Robots allow increasing labor productivity by an average of two to three times.

In the first quarter of this year, the company increased its output by 50 percent. Today, it has more than 20 patented developments. The company is a technology partner of Innopolis University, Moscow State Technological University Stankin and Plekhanov Russian University of Economics. The company implements its own training programs in the field of robotics, introduces robotic cells into educational institutions.

In May of this year, the company opened a production site at the Technopolis Moscow special economic zone (SEZ) for the production of domestic industrial robots.

From sports to robotics: the number of clubs in renovated Moscow schools has increased by almost 40 percent New machines and robotics kits delivered to engineering and IT classes in Moscow schools

Robots in warehouses and production

Ronavi Robotics, a company of the Rusnano Group, produces logistics robots for automating warehouses and production facilities. Some are designed for assembling and moving cargo, others for sorting parcels. There is a model that can replace the main conveyor.

This year, the company robotized the warehouse of a capital manufacturer of workwear with an area of about 7.5 thousand square meters. To implement the project, the company supplied 48 robots, 10 charging stations and four assembly stations. The manufacturer continues to develop the system, improves the parameters every month and develops new solutions for other areas of the warehouse.

UVL Robotics specializes in developing intelligent solutions for warehouse and transport logistics. The drone-based inventory system allows for inventory counting 10 times faster and five times more efficiently than traditional methods.

Recognizing objects with the help of a built-in scanning module, robots read markings on containers. Their productivity is up to 1.5 thousand pallets per hour, manually such a volume can be processed in about six hours. At the same time, drones cope well with work in refrigerated warehouses with temperatures down to minus 25 degrees, reducing the workload on personnel.

This year, an improved model was released. It is lighter, can maintain altitude, is easier to control, stores data and transmits it quickly over the network.

Rescue robots

The company “Special Design and Technology Bureau of Applied Robotics” manufactures multifunctional robotic systems at the site of the SEZ “Technopolis Moscow”. Among them are robotic sappers, which are used not only for mine clearance, but also in a number of explosive works, for example, in dismantling buildings.

In addition, the company produces mobile robotic fire extinguishing units to combat fires of any level at radiation and explosive hazardous facilities. The robot is equipped with television cameras, a thermal imager, as well as chemical and radiation reconnaissance devices. It can transmit information to the control post online.

Another original development is an amphibious robot. The model can be used underwater at a depth of up to four meters, as well as on land, and can be used for reconnaissance, emergency rescue, and explosive engineering work. The installation was created for nuclear power plants.

Robots for agriculture

The company “ERlab” creates robots for agriculture. The machines replace up to 15 people on a farm and process up to eight hectares in one hour. In particular, the robotic sprayer reduces the use of chemicals by 95 percent, fertilizers by 40 percent, and the robotic weeder increases crop yields by seven percent. Agrorobots independently identify weeds and signs of plant diseases.

“Moscow developers of robotic systems are mastering more and more areas and directions. With the support of the city, they are expanding their model range and increasing production output. New developments are successfully integrated into production processes, increasing their efficiency and safety,” Sergei Sobyanin emphasized.

Moscow supported more than three thousand innovative solutions with patent grants Mikhail Mishustin and Sergei Sobyanin inspected the work of the Lomonosov cluster

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

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12817050/

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues NOK 2 billion notes under its MTN programme

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Municipality Finance Plc
Stock exchange release
5 June 2025 at 10:00 am (EEST)

Municipality Finance issues NOK 2 billion notes under its MTN programme

Municipality Finance Plc issues NOK 2 billion notes on 6 June 2025. The maturity date of the notes is 6 January 2031. The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 4.125% per annum.

The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 6 June 2025.

DNB Bank ASA acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

Further information:

Joakim Holmström
Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
tel. +358 50 444 3638

MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland. The Group’s balance sheet is over EUR 53 billion.

MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

Important Information

The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

The MIL Network –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Jorgovanka Tabaković: By joining SEPA, Serbia reaffirms its strategic direction

Source: Bank for International Settlements

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, dear colleagues,

It is a particular pleasure for me that my neighbour, Mr Holti (Senior Financial Sector Specialist with the Payments Team in the Finance, Competitiveness & Innovation Global Practice at the World Bank) from Albania, is with us. As a good host, at the beginning, I greeted him in the way my neighbours in my home town would do. That is indeed a sign of good hospitality, but there is also a bit of bitterness because we, as the best, are the 41st in the SEPA system. However, there is a good Serbian saying: Luck is never late. And whenever something happens, it happens on time.

I am speaking to you at a moment when a significant chapter has already been opened: the Republic of Serbia has become part of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA).

With this step, Serbia has entered a new phase of economic integration with the EU. We are now the first country in the region with an advanced instant payment system, ready to participate equally in a space where payments are executed without borders – quickly, securely, and reliably.

“Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity,” said Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers of the EU. Our path to SEPA embodies these concrete achievements – the collective effort of experts, institutions and partners from the country and abroad.

SEPA is not merely a technical framework for connecting payment systems. It is a civilizational framework of trust – a common language for European markets and the foundation of the digital economy. If the Tower of Babel, like in Bruegel’s painting, remained unfinished in its construction because the people of the world could not agree to speak one language, through the SEPA instrument we are trying to realise that eternal human dream – to speak the same language in order to understand each other best.

By joining SEPA, Serbia not only establishes the basis for more efficient cross-border payment transactions but also clearly reaffirms its strategic direction, which is European, modern and inclusive.

Our path to SEPA was a carefully guided process of reforms, involving thorough alignment with the highest EU standards. From adopting a modern legal framework for payment services and implementing the provisions of the PSD2 directive to enacting secondary legislation – every step was grounded in a clear vision and institutional responsibility. During this process, we enhanced supervisory capacities, strengthened collaboration with the banking and fintech sectors, and created a regulatory environment that now enables a stable, transparent, and competitive system. Over this time, Serbia has taken a significant leap – not only in terms of aligning with the highest EU standards but also in terms of developing its own solutions that today serve as benchmarks both regionally and globally. When I say our own solutions, I mean solutions developed primarily relying on our own efforts, for our greatest strength is the people who created that software. Our instant payment system, the NBS IPS system, which operates in real time and processes over five million transactions a month, has become a symbol of innovation and reliability. We have achieved what until recently seemed a distant goal – that the size of a country depends not on its territory but on the knowledge it possesses and the trust it inspires. Today, Serbia does not merely follow European trends but actively shapes them – through vision, infrastructure, and the trust it has built among partners and users.

I extend special gratitude to the European Payments Council, the European Commission, the European Central Bank, and the World Bank for their continuous support. Your confidence in our institutional capacity has been the driving force behind our resolve.

As Governor, I am proud of the National Bank of Serbia’s team, which has worked tirelessly toward this goal. We witness how expertise has translated into reform, how plans have become reality, and how vision has opened the door to the European financial system.

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how“, or He who has a why to live can bear almost any burden. And he who does not, does not embark on any project. These are not only the words of Friedrich Nietzsche, but a philosophy we affirm every day in our business decisions. These words – that if you know why you live, you can endure any burden – shape human resilience and the meaning of existence. Our why has always been clear: to ensure that citizens and the economy reap the benefits they deserve – lower costs, greater trust and simpler processes.

Today, we can proudly say that Serbia is part of the European payments area. Our application has been officially accepted. Serbia has become a full-fledged member of the SEPA geographical scope.

On behalf of the National Bank of Serbia, the institution entrusted with the stability and development of the domestic financial system, it is my honour to announce this news with a sense of deep pride and responsibility. With this achievement, Serbia takes its place in the Single European Payments Area with systems that speak the same language of standards, regulations that protect users, and a vision that integrates economies into a single payments market.

This is a space where interoperability is not just a technical term but a daily practice of trust. It is a network where every signal, every transfer of funds, every digital confirmation – testifies to a single European idea: that stability, transparency, and efficiency are not a matter of luxury but expectations. Today, Serbia does not translate the lexicon of payment standards – it is the one writing it. Now, all payment service providers in Serbia stand before a new chapter of responsibility but also of opportunity. Joining SEPA does not mark the end of our work – our work now begins at a higher level. Now is the moment to once again demonstrate our leadership: through knowledge, efficiency and dedication, and to prove that the trust placed in us was not accidental but earned.

May this day be remembered as the moment Serbia did not take a step forward – but a natural step. For we did not wait to become part of SEPA; we have long been ready for it. Today, Europe has recognised what we already knew – that Serbia belongs to a community that values knowledge, reliability and vision, and that Serbia is part of the area where standards mean trust and collaboration yields results.

I thank everyone who has supported us on this journey, above all our colleagues, then the banking sector, which has always understood that we are working together on this task. I wish everyone a successful and inspiring continuation not only of today’s workshop but also of our future cooperation.

Thank you.

MIL OSI Economics –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Ageas Re partners with Slovenian insurer Triglav Group in connection with the Motor insurance business distributed by Italian Insurtech Prima
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Ageas Re partners with Slovenian insurer Triglav Group in connection with the Motor insurance business distributed by Italian Insurtech Prima

Today, Ageas Re, the reinsurance arm of Ageas Group, concluded a reinsurance agreement with Slovenian insurer Triglav Group in connection with the partnership entered into by Triglav Group with leading Italian direct Motor insurance distributor, Prima Assicurazioni S.p.A. (Prima), with the objective to expand its business portfolio and to contribute to the Ageas’s Elevate27 profitable growth ambitions.

Under to the agreement, Ageas Re takes an 80% Quota Share on the Prima business underwritten by Triglav Group in 2025, commencing in the coming weeks.

Prima is a rapidly growing, profitable insurance distributor that began distributing personal lines policies, mainly Motor, in 2015. Since then, it has become the number 1 in the Italian Direct Motor business. In 2024, the company generated EUR 1.3 billion gross written premiums, servicing over 4 million customers, and EUR 104 million Group EBITDA.

This agreement is in perfect alignment with Ageas’s Elevate27 strategy to achieve profitable growth in an attractive European Non-Life market. The Italian Motor insurance market generates premiums in excess of EUR 15 billion, with consistent profitability. Through this partnership, Ageas Re teams up with a tech-driven, local champion, with proven track record, providing immediate market entry with considerable scale.

Ageas Re anticipates inflows from this transaction in excess of EUR 500 million in 2025 and a Net Operating Result of around EUR 15 million, spread over 2025 and 2026. The impact on Group Solvency is estimated to be no more than -4 points in 2025.

Hans De Cuyper, CEO of Ageas stated: The agreement with Triglav Group aligns well with many aspects of our newly launched strategy, Elevate27. This collaboration enables us to enter a promising European growth market in Non-Life insurance and achieve profitable growth through a partner with a strong market position.”

Joachim Racz, CEO of Ageas Re continued: “I am pleased to announce this partnership. Along with the entire Ageas Re team, I look forward to establishing a successful collaboration, offering high-quality insurance products to the Italian customer distributed by Prima. We would also like to thank Howden Re for the excellent management of the process and transaction.”

George Ottathycal, CEO of Prima said: “Prima Assicurazioni has experienced remarkable growth in the Italian motor insurance market, surpassing 4 million active customers in just ten years. This success is the result of our sophisticated and rigorous pricing and underwriting, outstanding user experience, and, most importantly, our carefully selected strategic partners who fully align with our cutting-edge, technology- and data-driven business model. Not only will the solidity and trust of the new partners Triglav Group and Ageas Re further expand our growth, but will also deliver significant value to our entire network of agents and brokers—and, above all, to our customers.”

Andrej Slapar, President of the Management Board of Zavarovalnica Triglav, commented: “Our strategic ambition is to grow beyond existing markets and enhance Triglav Group’s international recognition. The Italian motor insurance market presents a strong opportunity to support this goal, and we are pleased to be working with well-established partners Prima and Ageas Re. The Triglav Group will continue to explore opportunities for further growth and for delivering on the other objectives set out in our strategy.”

Ageas is a Belgian rooted listed international insurance Group with a heritage spanning of 200 years. It offers Retail and Business customers Life and Non-Life insurance products designed to suit their specific needs, today and tomorrow, and is also engaged in reinsurance activities. As one of Europe’s larger insurance companies, Ageas concentrates its activities in Europe and Asia, which together make up the major part of the global insurance market. It operates successful insurance businesses in Belgium, the UK, Portugal, Türkiye, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and long-term partnerships with strong financial institutions and key distributors. Ageas ranks among the market leaders in the countries in which it operates. It represents a staff force of about 50,000 people and reported annual inflows of EUR 18.5 billion in 2024.

Prima Assicurazioni is an insurtech company operating as a specialized insurance agency in the automotive, home, and family sectors, serving over 4 million clients. It has revolutionized the Italian insurance market through innovation, technology, and a data-driven strategy. Thanks to unprecedented growth over its 10-year history, Prima’s evolving business model has enhanced the user experience, offering competitive pricing and fostering greater market competition. A leader in Italy’s online motor insurance sector, Prima also operates a nationwide network of agents. Since 2022, the company has expanded into the United Kingdom and Spain.

For 125 years, the Triglav Group has earned the trust of clients and other stakeholders through its expertise, experience, and financial strength. It is the largest insurance-financial group in the Adria region and one of the leading groups in Southeast Europe. The Group operates in six countries, with broader international presence through insurance and reinsurance activities. Insurance and asset management are the two main pillars of its operations. The Group employs more than 5,000 people. Its mission is to create a safer future. The core values of the Group are responsiveness, simplicity, and reliability. Its vision is focused on strengthening its identity and recognition as an international insurance-financial group. Through sustainable operations, it provides a development-oriented environment for employees, maintains strong partnerships, and represents a stable, secure, and profitable investment for shareholders. The parent company of the Triglav Group is Zavarovalnica Triglav, a Prime Market issuer on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange.

Attachment
- Pdf version of the press release
The MIL Network –
June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Richemont publishes FY25 Annual Report and Non-Financial Report

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

5 JUNE 2025

RICHEMONT PUBLISHES FY25 ANNUAL REPORT
AND NON-FINANCIAL REPORT

Richemont has today published its combined Annual Report and Accounts with the Business review, the Compensation Report and the Corporate Governance Report, along with its Non-Financial Report, for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The Annual Report and Accounts, which includes the Chairman’s review to shareholders, the annual consolidated and statutory financial statements, and the corresponding audit reports was already published on 16 May 2025.

The Non-Financial Report 2025, prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards (2021), provides Richemont’s disclosures on non-financial matters. The report complies with the reporting disclosure required by Articles 964a-c of the Swiss Code of Obligations, including the Swiss Ordinance on Climate Disclosures. Selected disclosures and indicators have been independently assured (limited assurance) by PricewaterhouseCoopers SA (PwC).

Both reports are available for download on the Company’s website at https://www.richemont.com/media/ue1bjrjv/richemont-fy25-annual-report-en.pdf and https://www.richemont.com/media/3vwfatyf/richemont-non-financial-report-2025.pdf. Hard copies will be mailed to parties who have requested it and may also be obtained from the Company’s registered office at the address below or by contacting the Company via the website at www.richemont.com/about-us/contact-us.

In South Africa, the Annual Report and Non-Financial Report may be obtained directly from the Depository Agent at the following address: Computershare Investor Services Proprietary Limited, Rosebank Towers, 15 Biermann Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa.

About Richemont

At Richemont, we craft the future. Our unique portfolio includes prestigious Maisons distinguished by their craftsmanship and creativity. Richemont’s ambition is to nurture its Maisons and businesses and enable them to grow and prosper in a responsible, sustainable manner over the long term.

Richemont operates in three business areas: Jewellery Maisons with Buccellati, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Vhernier; Specialist Watchmakers with A. Lange & Söhne, Baume & Mercier, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Panerai, Piaget, Roger Dubuis and Vacheron Constantin; and Other, primarily Fashion & Accessories Maisons with Alaïa, Chloé, Delvaux, dunhill, G/FORE, Gianvito Rossi, Montblanc, Peter Millar, Purdey, Serapian as well as Watchfinder & Co. Find out more at https://www.richemont.com/.

Richemont A shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, Richemont’s primary listing, and are included in the Swiss Market Index (‘SMI’) of leading stocks. Richemont A shares are listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Richemont’s secondary listing.

Investor/analyst and media enquiries
+41 22 721 3003 (investor relations)
Investor.relations@cfrinfo.net
+41 22 721 3507 (media)
pressoffice@cfrinfo.net
richemont@teneo.com

Click here for a printer-friendly version in English (PDF)

The MIL Network –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: What is the Savings and Investments Union?

Source: European Commission (video statements)

Discover the primary objectives of the Savings and Investments Union and how it will reshape Europe’s financial landscape.

Europeans save around €1.4 trillion each year in low-interest rate bank deposits, while European businesses, especially start-ups and small enterprises, struggle to secure investment funding for their projects. The need for a strategic investment approach is evident.

To address this, the Savings and Investments Union aims to streamline investment processes and expand opportunities, driving EU economic growth and boosting household wealth.

This initiative will empower a variety of stakeholders, including investment firms and individual citizens, to participate in investments across the EU, facilitating access to capital for critical sectors such as green and digital transitions.

The Savings and Investments Union also focuses on equipping people with the knowledge and skills they need so that, if they decide to invest, they can make informed decisions.

Ultimately, the objectives of the Savings and Investments Union are to amplify investment choices, support EU enterprises, and strengthen the regional economy, leading to improved living standards for all Europeans.

Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-271253
Follow us on:
-X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
-Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI-gnz9di3E

MIL OSI Video –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Germany: April results of the Bank Lending Survey (BLS) in Germany | Demand continued to rise in all loan categories

Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

The German banks responding to the Bank Lending Survey (BLS) tightened their credit standards slightly for loans to enterprises in the first quarter of 2025, primarily based on risk considerations. By contrast, banks eased their credit standards for loans to households for house purchase. They did not see a need to adjust their credit standards for consumer credit and other lending to households.
Banks tightened their credit standards for loans to enterprises to a lesser extent than they had planned in the previous quarter. They had originally intended to tighten their credit standards for loans to households.
The banks that took part in the survey made credit terms and conditions for loans to enterprises and for consumer credit and other lending to households more restrictive on balance, whilst easing terms and conditions for loans to households for house purchase.
Demand for loans continued to rise in all loan categories, with loans to households for house purchase increasing significantly.
The level of the non-performing loans (NPL) ratio and other indicators of credit quality had tightening effects on lending policies for loans to enterprises and for consumer credit and other lending to households over the past three months.
The ECB Governing Council’s past and expected key interest rate decisions had a negative impact on net interest income, thereby contributing to a deterioration in banks’ profitability in the 2024-25 winter half-year. For the summer half-year, too, banks are expecting the key interest rate decisions to have a negative impact on their net interest income as well as on their profitability.
The BLS covers three loan categories: loans to enterprises, loans to households for house purchase, and consumer credit and other lending to households. On balance, the surveyed banks tightened their credit standards (i.e. their internal guidelines or loan approval criteria) slightly for loans to enterprises. By contrast, they eased their credit standards for loans to households for house purchase. They left their credit standards for consumer credit and other loans to households unchanged. The net percentage of banks that tightened their standards stood at +3% for loans to enterprises (compared with +13% in the previous quarter). Credit standards for loans to enterprises were tightened only for large enterprises. Standards for small and medium-sized enterprises were eased somewhat on balance. The net percentage of banks that tightened their standards for loans to households for house purchase was -7% (compared with +11% in the previous quarter); for consumer credit and other lending to households, this figure was 0% (compared with +11% in the previous quarter). Banks tightened their credit standards for loans to enterprises to a lesser extent than they had planned in the previous quarter. They had originally intended to tighten their credit standards for loans to households.
The banks justified the slight tightening of credit standards for loans to enterprises on the grounds of a perceived increase in credit risk. This assessment relates to the general economic situation, but also to sector and firm-specific factors. Banks’ main rationale for easing credit standards for loans for house purchase was their higher risk tolerance. Another factor was that the outlook on the housing market had improved. They also reported that competition with other banks had increased and capital costs had decreased. For the second quarter of 2025, banks are planning to tighten their credit standards in all loan categories. Here, credit risk is likely to have a restrictive impact on the adjustment of credit standards owing to the tense economic situation and a decline in borrower creditworthiness.

Change in credit standards for loans to households for house purchase and contributing factorsOn balance, banks tightened their terms and conditions (i.e. the terms and conditions actually approved as laid down in the loan contract) for loans to enterprises as well as for consumer credit and other lending to households. The restrictive adjustments in both loan categories are the outcome of higher lending rates and an increase in margins irrespective of credit ratings. The banks justified these adjustments primarily on the grounds of their reduced risk tolerance and a perceived increase in credit risk. Banks eased their terms and conditions for loans to households for house purchase overall by reducing their margins. They stated that this was mainly due to stronger competition and an improvement in their liquidity base.
The surveyed banks reported that demand for bank loans in Germany had risen on balance in all loan categories in the first quarter of 2025, with loans to households for house purchase registering significant growth. Banks stated that the marginal rise in demand for loans to enterprises was driven by various factors: increased demand for mergers, acquisitions and corporate restructuring, as well as for refinancing, debt restructuring and renegotiation. In addition, debt securities were replaced to some degree by bank loans. Interest rate levels once again supported demand for loans, albeit to a lesser extent than in the previous two quarters. By contrast, financing needs for fixed investment declined on balance. The high degree of uncertainty surrounding economic and (geo)political developments is likely to have been a factor here. According to the surveyed banks, the considerable rise in demand for loans to households for house purchase was mainly attributable to the lower level of interest rates and households’ positive view of the outlook on the housing market. Higher consumer confidence also boosted demand. Banks put the rise in demand for consumer credit and other lending to households down to an increase in purchases of durable consumer goods. The loan rejection rate for loans to enterprises went up again, but only for loan requests and applications from small and medium-sized enterprises. There was no change in the rejection rate for large enterprises. The rejection rate declined for loans for house purchase and for consumer credit and other lending to households. For the second quarter of 2025, banks are expecting to see demand increase further across all three loan categories. On balance, they expect demand for housing loans to rise at a significantly more subdued rate than in the first quarter.

Change in demand for loans to households for house purchase and contributing factorsThe April survey round contained ad hoc questions on participating banks’ financing conditions and the impact of the ECB Governing Council’s past and expected key interest rate decisions. It also contained questions about the impact of the Eurosystem’s monetary policy asset portfolios and of NPLs and other indicators of credit quality on the institutions’ lending policies.
Against the backdrop of conditions in financial markets, German banks reported virtually no change in their funding situation compared with the previous quarter. The ECB Governing Council’s past and expected future key interest rate decisions have had, overall, a negative impact on banks’ profitability over the past six months. After the interest rate cuts in October and December 2024 and in February and March 2025, key interest rate decisions ceased to have a positive impact for the first time since this question was introduced. For the 2025 summer half-year, banks are once again expecting key interest rate decisions to have a negative impact on their net interest income as well as on their profitability. Taken in isolation, the reduction in the Eurosystem’s monetary policy securities holdings weakened the liquidity position of banks in Germany. German banks assessed the impact on their financing conditions and capital ratios, too, as slightly negative.
In the first quarter of 2025, the level of the NPL ratio (the stock of gross NPLs on the bank’s balance sheet as a percentage of the gross carrying amount of loans) and other indicators of credit quality had restrictive effects on lending policies for loans to enterprises and on consumer credit and other lending to households. In the second quarter of 2025, the banks are expecting this restrictive effect stemming from the decline in credit quality to continue.
The Bank Lending Survey, which is conducted four times a year, took place between 10 March and 25 March 2025. In Germany, 33 banks took part in the survey. The response rate was 97%.

Change in credit standards for loans to enterprises and contributing factors
Change in demand for loans to enterprises and contributing factorsTime series credit standards
Loans to enterprises
Loans to households for house purchase
Consumer credit and other lending to households

MIL OSI

MIL OSI German News –

June 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Public Health Alert: Dangerous drugs found in counterfeit ‘Xanax’ in Canberra
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

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Released 05/06/2025
- Counterfeit (fake) ‘Xanax’ containing a novel benzodiazepine and a strong synthetic opioid has been found in the ACT.
- This mix of drugs could cause overdose or death.
- This drug combination has not previously been found in the ACT.
- Any use of illicit and counterfeit (fake) drugs carries a risk to health.
What is the issue?

A mix of dangerous drugs has been found in counterfeit (fake) ‘Xanax’ in Canberra. Multiple benzodiazepines (including bromazolam, a strong non-registered benzodiazepine, alprazolam and diazepam) and a very strong synthetic opioid (protonitazene) have been detected in a sample tested at the CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service. Consuming this mix of illicit drugs could be life threatening.

Why is this dangerous?

There is the increased risk of overdose and death from a combination of a strong synthetic opioid and a benzodiazepine, especially when it is unexpected. Counterfeit (fake) drugs can look very similar to legitimate products. You should only consume benzodiazepines that have been prescribed to you by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacy. There is the potential for contaminants in counterfeit (fake) products that can increase the risk of severe adverse effects.

What do I do if I have taken counterfeit (fake) ‘Xanax’?

If you experience unexpected or adverse drug effects, feel unwell, or are with someone who does, seek urgent medical attention at a hospital emergency department or call emergency triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

Signs of an opioid overdose can include:
- drowsiness
- difficulty speaking or walking
- loss of consciousness
- unusual (slow or obstructed) breathing, or
- skin turning blue or grey.
The risk of harms from illicit substances is higher if you are alone, or use them in combination with other drugs including alcohol.

Take Home Naloxone

Naloxone is an easy-to-use life-saving medicine that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. Free naloxone is available without a prescription from locations throughout the ACT for people at risk of opioid overdose or who may witness an overdose. This includes people who take counterfeit (fake) benzodiazepines because of the risk of contamination with opioids. More information can be found here.

Always call an ambulance if opioid overdose is suspected, even if naloxone has been given. Synthetic opioids like nitazenes may need repeat doses of naloxone.

What do I do, if I think I have counterfeit (fake) ‘Xanax’?

If you or someone you know might be in possession of counterfeit drugs, you should safely dispose of it. Testing and/or safe disposal of small amounts can be done at the CanTEST Health and Drug Checking Service. For further details about drug checking visit the ACT Health website.

This alert has been issued on the basis of the information available at the time of the alert’s release in the interests of prompt communication about the risks of this substance.

– Statement ends –

ACT Health Directorate | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases
MIL OSI News –
June 5, 2025

	Change in dwelling values
Region	Month	Quarter	Annual	From peak	Median value
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland	-0.3%	-0.6%	-2.7%	-21.4%	$1,073,222
Kirikiriroa Hamilton	0.1%	1.0%	1.4%	-10.5%	$754,800
Tauranga	-0.1%	-0.5%	-1.0%	-16.3%	$918,320
Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington*	-0.4%	-0.2%	-5.2%	-23.9%	$797,126
Ōtautahi Christchurch	-0.8%	-0.2%	0.6%	-6.0%	$695,117
Ōtepoti Dunedin	-0.1%	-0.8%	-0.9%	-10.9%	$610,669
Aotearoa New Zealand	-0.1%	-0.1%	-1.6%	-16.3%	$818,132

Category: housing

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