Category: housing

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh joins Core Cities UK

Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

Edinburgh has become the 12th member of partnership-led organisation with a 30 year track record of implementing policy change across the UK.

Edinburgh has joined Core Cities UK, becoming the organisation’s 12th member city, its third national capital, and expanding the UK-wide reach of the group as it prepares to celebrate its 30th birthday later this year.

Edinburgh will join Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield to become a member of an organisation that has a 30 year track record of implementing policy change across the UK.

Edinburgh is one of the most economically successful places in the country but, like other Core Cities, has areas of the city where overall health, earning potential and life expectancy fall well below national averages.

The Scottish capital will play a key role in the group’s thinking around inclusive economic growth and other members hope to learn from its development of a tourism levy, which will come into effect in Edinburgh next Summer.

Cllr Jane Meagher, Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said:

I’m delighted that we’ve joined Core Cities UK and look forward to sharing our knowledge, ideas and experiences with other member cities.

Edinburgh continues to perform well as a place to live, work, visit and invest in, but we still face many of the same urban challenges as our partners. Growing populations are creating ever increasing demand for homes, public services and infrastructure, while many of our residents are struggling with the cost of living – meaning poverty, homelessness and economic inactivity remain the biggest challenges of our time.

From my early discussions with the Chair and other member cities, it’s been clear how much we have in common – both in terms of these challenges, but also our priorities. I have no doubt that this collaboration will help us to solve our collective problems while growing more sustainably for the benefit of all of our residents.

Cllr James Lewis, Chair of Core Cities UK and Leader of Leeds City Council, added:

Edinburgh joining us is an historic moment for Core Cities and solidifies our position as the authoritative voice of urban Britain. We have always argued that cities have certain things in common, no matter which nation – either within the UK or abroad – they are situated in and we look forward to getting Edinburgh’s unique perspective on our policy discussions.

Core Cities’ mission is to unlock the full potential of our great city regions to create a stronger, fairer economy and society. With the addition of Edinburgh, Core Cities will generate more than 25 per cent of the economy and will be home to more than 22 million people.

Core Cities UK is a leading voice in policy around devolution and decentralisation and its reports with organisations including OECD and RSA are used as benchmarks within the sector. It also has strong private sector relationships with a variety of companies including Landsec and Lloyds Banking Group and works closely with the English Combined Authority Mayors as well as local Government in London.

Founded by a number of English councils in 1995, it is headquartered in Manchester and will celebrate its 30th anniversary this summer.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New research highlights transformative impact of internet connectivity in temporary accommodation

Source: City of Coventry

An evaluation report exploring the critical need for internet access for people living in temporary accommodation has been published today.

It follows a pilot project delivered by the technology charity Jangala in partnership with Virgin Media O2, Coventry City Council’s #CovConnects initiative, and Good Things Foundation, which supported people living in temporary homes in Coventry with internet connectivity.

The research highlights the impact that being online can have on emotional and mental wellbeing, personal empowerment, and access to essential services. For people living in temporary accommodation, connectivity can be poor quality or non-existent, despite a critical need to be online. Residents are penalised if they do not bid weekly for permanent housing but are often on low incomes and cannot install internet in their temporary homes.

At the heart of the research is the role of Jangala’s Get Box, a portable internet connectivity device designed to provide reliable internet access to those who need it most. By swiftly enabling individuals in temporary accommodation to get online, Get Box plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide. It opens doors to essential services, learning opportunities, and vital social support networks, offering a lifeline to people facing unstable living conditions and a range of personal challenges. These include surviving domestic abuse, recent arrival to the UK and mental illness.

Jackie* who is a survivor of domestic abuse explains:

“If I didn’t have music I wouldn’t go to sleep at night. It’s made me feel, like, a little bit more comfortable. It calms me down as well. The Get Box has done a lot for me.”

The initiative forms part of a broader programme funded by Virgin Media O2, which aims to distribute 5,000 Get Boxes across the UK. The programme has deployed more than 2,000 devices already to partners. Get Boxes are having a real and measurable impact in communities struggling with digital exclusion by offering a vital lifeline to connectivity when it is needed.

The findings of the research emphasise the importance of increased data allowances in driving social impact and addresses the immediate connectivity needs of individuals. It also lays the groundwork for long-term positive change by demonstrating the far-reaching benefits of easy-to-use, scalable solutions in digital inclusion.

Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Resources at Coventry City Council said: “This project has been a real success and has made a huge difference to the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents. I look forward to building on success mentioned in the report so we can continue to tackle the digital divide in Coventry and ensure that all our residents, regardless of background and circumstance, can get online and access the digital world.”

Rich Thanki, Managing Director at Jangala said: “This research vividly highlights the critical role that internet access plays in so many aspects of welfare. We’re thrilled that our Get Box technology, with incredible support from VMO2 and Coventry Council, has been able to positively impact the lives of such a diverse range of digitally-excluded people.”

Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2 said: “We’re proud that Virgin Media O2’s partnership with Jangala is providing a lifeline to people in need, helping them to get online and access essential online services from applying for accommodation to booking medical appointments or building their skills via online training course, and is helping them to stay in touch with loved ones.”

Helen Milner OBE, Group CEO, Good Things Foundation, said “Access to the internet is life-changing, providing a crucial link to essential services, education, and employment. Our partnership with Jangala, Virgin Media O2, and Coventry Council is helping ensure people in temporary accommodation are not left behind in the digital world. By providing reliable connectivity, we are giving individuals and families the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Together we can help fix the digital divide.”

For more information, access the full research evaluation report here: https://www.janga.la/digital-lifelines

*names have been changed to protect anonymity

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Holyrood — Holyrood RCMP investigates break and enter, one man arrested

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Holyrood RCMP arrested 20-year-old Eric Browne of CBS for a residential break and enter that occurred on Wild Golf Course Road in Holyrood on March 30, 2025.

Shortly after 4:00 a.m., on Sunday, police received a report of a residential break and enter in progress. A residential security camera captured a man on the property holding a large rock, attempting to break into the home.

Upon arrival, police entered the home and located the man inside. He was arrested for break and enter, being unlawfully in a dwelling, and mischief under $5000.00 (damage to property). He was released from police custody and is set to appear in court at a later date.

The investigation is continuing.

MIL Security OSI –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Morgan McGarvey, Luttrell Introduce Legislation to Increase Access to Service Dogs for Veterans

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan McGarvey (Kentucky-03)

April 02, 2025

Today, Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, joined Congressman Morgan Luttrell (TX-03) to introduce the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act. This legislation would increase access to service dogs for eligible veterans – including veterans who are blind, deaf, or are healing from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), military sexual trauma, paralysis, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – by establishing a VA grant program to fund nonprofit organizations providing trained service dogs to eligible veterans at no cost. Over 40,000 veterans currently reside in Louisville.

“As a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and proud grandson of veterans, I know we need to do more to help our veterans address both the visible and invisible wounds of war. These brave men and women put on the uniform to defend our freedom and we have a moral obligation to support them,” said Congressman Morgan McGarvey. “I am proud to join Congressman Morgan Luttrell to introduce this critical, bipartisan legislation to ensure veterans have access to service dogs when they return home.”

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and we owe it to them to provide every possible resource to support their recovery and well-being. For many veterans, service dogs are not just companions, they are life-changing partners that provide independence, stability, and purpose,” said Congressman Morgan Luttrell. “The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act will ensure more veterans have access to highly trained service dogs, expanding support beyond PTSD to include those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, military sexual trauma, and other service-related conditions. This is about giving our heroes the tools they need to thrive — not just survive —when they come home.”

“Service dogs have a proven track record of providing lifesaving assistance to Veterans in critical need,” said Bill McCabe, Vice President of Government & External Affairs at K9s For Warriors. “The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act will ultimately put more service dogs in the hands of Veterans with visible and invisible disabilities, allowing them to regain their independence and reintegrate into civilian life. We applaud this bipartisan effort and urge Congress to pass this important legislation without delay.”

“America’s VetDogs proudly supports the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act—a crucial step toward expanding access to accredited service dogs for veterans with physical disabilities, PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, hearing loss, blindness, and more. Serving America’s heroes in all 50 states and beyond, we are honored to provide custom-trained service dogs, free of charge, to U.S. veterans, helping them regain independence, restore confidence, and Live Without Boundaries. Through our work with veteran suicide prevention coalitions like Face the Fight and by training exceptional service dogs like Sully H.W. Bush—who served President George H.W. Bush and continues his mission at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center—we witness the life-changing impact of these dogs every day. We urge Congress to pass this vital legislation and ensure that more veterans receive the support they deserve,” said John Miller, president and CEO, America’s VetDogs and Guide Dog Foundation.

It is estimated that upwards of 20% of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, and more than 450,000 service members have been diagnosed with at least one traumatic brain injury over the past two decades. As a result, these veterans suffer from alarmingly high rates of depression, anxiety, joblessness, homelessness, and substance use disorders. Far too often, they resort to taking their own lives, with nearly 17 veterans dying by suicide each day.

Several veterans organizations have endorsed this legislation, including: American Veterans (AMVETS), Americas Warrior Partnership (AWP), American Kennel Club (AKC), American Humane, Americas VetDogs, Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Chief Warrant Officers Association (CWOA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Dog Tag Buddies, Elizabeth Dole Foundation (EDF), Guardian Angels, HunterSeven Foundation, Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Jewish War Veterans of America (JWV), K9s For Warriors, Lions Club International, National Military Families Association (NMFA), Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Pet Advocacy Network, Retrieving Freedom, Semper K9 Assistance Dogs, The American Legion (TAL), The Independence Fund (TIF), Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), TREA: The Enlisted Association (TREA), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Warrior Canine Connection, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Joins Graham, Colleagues to Introduce Hard-Hitting Russia Sanctions

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and a bipartisan collection of more than three dozen other senators to introduce primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.

These sanctions would be imposed if Russia refuses to engage in good faith negotiations for a lasting peace with Ukraine or initiates another effort, including military invasion, that undermines the sovereignty of Ukraine after peace is negotiated. The legislation also imposes a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.

“In 1994, as part of the Budapest Memorandum, Ukraine gave up approximately 1,700 nuclear weapons with a promise from the U.S., Russia and United Kingdom that Ukraine’s sovereignty would be honored in the future. This failed to deter Russian aggression. In 2014 and 2015, the Minsk agreements were reached to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but again, it did nothing to deter future aggression. In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine once more, leading to deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and the displacement of millions.

“It is our hope that in 2025, President Trump and his team will achieve what has eluded the world in the past: ending Russian aggression against Ukraine permanently and ensuring the survivability of a free and democratic Ukraine. These sanctions against Russia are at the ready and will receive overwhelming bipartisan, bicameral support if presented to the Senate and House for a vote.

“We support an immediate ceasefire to secure a lasting, honorable peace,” the senators said.

The sanctions are cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Todd Young (R-IN), Angus King (I-ME), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Curtis (R-UT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Peter Welch (D-VT), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jon Husted (R-OH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Cornyn (R-TX), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Hoeven (R-ND), John Fetterman (D-PA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), James Lankford (R-OK), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Rick Scott (R-FL), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jim Justice (R-WV), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Steve Daines (R-MT) and Jack Reed (D-RI).

Click here for full text of the legislation.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: A new home for dragon boating at Grevillea Park

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The new facility has been years in the making through the joint efforts of Dragon Boat ACT and the ACT Government.

A new state-of-the-art dragon boating facility has opened at Grevillea Park on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.

Years in the making, the new facility has been finalised through the joint efforts of Dragon Boat ACT and the ACT Government.

It was designed by Cox Architecture and construction was completed by local company Projex.

The facility is equipped with boat storage, training and timekeeping rooms, office space and meeting room, new amenities and changerooms and a marshalling area.

It can support training and competition activities for over 600 members, as well as interstate visitors participating in local and regional regattas.

The building’s opening coincided with the ACT Dragon Boat Championships, making the event even more meaningful for Canberra’s dragon boat community.

The ACT Government invested $2.1 million towards the construction of the purpose-built facility.

A further $360,000 was provided by Dragon Boat ACT, the governing body of dragon boating in the Territory, who now run and maintain the facility.

“Dragon Boat ACT is delighted that the ACT Government has recognised our sport and worked together with us for a permanent home for dragon boating in the ACT,” President of Dragon Boat ACT Donald Jenkins said.

“Dragon Boat ACT has 10 clubs, an ACT state team and many of our paddlers represent Australia internationally. Our members range in age from 12 to 80+ from across the community, including Dragons Abreast, DeafACT, youth, veterans and all forms of diversity. The facility will help with our many activities, including regattas, training, corporate events and come-and-try days,” he said.

Since dragon boating was introduced to the ACT in 1990, it has become one of Canberra’s most popular water-based sports.

The sport is recognised for participants’ camaraderie, strength and endurance.

In the ACT, it appeals to a growing number of women and people of all ages.

Read more about this project on Builtforcbr.gov.au

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MIL OSI News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio meets with Bahraini Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani

Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

Secretary of State Marco A. Rubio meets with Bahraini Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani at the Department of State, on April 2, 2025.

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Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c-nrXI0whw

MIL OSI Video –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Resurfacing marks final phase of Western Road improvements

Source: City of Leicester

THE final phase of maintenance and improvements to a residential road in Leicester’s West End will begin next week.

Leicester City Council will begin work to resurface Western Road – between its junctions with Braunstone Gate and Paton Street – from Wednesday 9 April.

The work will require the stretch of road to be closed to traffic for up to nine days while work is carried out. A short, well-signposted diversion will be place. Parking will also be suspended.

Access to properties and businesses will be maintained for deliveries.

Work will also be carried out at the junction of Western Road and Briton Street, where adjustments will be made to give priority to vehicles and cycles from Briton Street.

This will be the final phase of a £700,000 scheme that has improved footpaths along the length of the road and removed dropped kerbs that cut across the pavement, but which no longer provide access to parking or loading areas. Carriageway drainage improvements have also been carried out.

Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “The city’s road network needs regular maintenance and repairs to ensure it can cope with modern demands.

“The work on Western Road will help improve a busy residential street and important local route to ensure it’s in good shape for years to come. This will benefit everyone who uses it.

“The final phase of resurfacing will mean some disruption. While the road is closed for a few days, a clearly signposted diversion will be in place and the team will be working hard to keep disruption to a minimum.”

The Western Road scheme is funded as part of the Connecting Leicester programme which is supported by the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s video message at the Opening of the Global Disability Summit

Source: United Nations secretary general

His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan,

H.E. Mr. Olaf Scholz, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany,

Mr. Nawaf Kabbara, Chair and President, International Disability Alliance,

Excellencies, Dear friends,

I am truly sorry that I could not join you in person today but it is a true honor to open this third Global Disability Summit.

More than that, I want to thank you for your leadership and commitment to shape a more just world.

Expanding hope and opportunities for people with disabilities is close to my heart – and that of the Secretary-General.

It is a matter of dignity… of humanity… of human rights.

It is a test of our common values.

And it is also plain common sense.

When persons with disabilities can fully participate in society, societies are stronger.

When we unlock potential and recognize talents, economies and communities thrive.

When we advance human rights, all of humanity moves forward.

Disability rights are human rights – and everyone one wins when we make them real.

And so I thank the International Disability Alliance and the Governments of Germany and Jordan for bringing us together.

You are meeting at a crucial time – with the 5-year clock ticking on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

I was involved in the shaping of that agenda – and saw firsthand how so many of you helped put the rights and hopes of persons with disabilities front and center.

In doing so, you gave deeper meaning to the promise of leaving no one behind – and laid the foundation for the progress we strive to advance today.

The Pact for the Future, adopted last year, reinforces that call for a more peaceful, inclusive, accessible and equitable world – with persons with disabilities a full and equal part of our shared effort to advance sustainable development, climate action and digital transformation.

Yet today, we face a sobering truth.

Progress is not just slow – in some cases, we are moving backward.

The UN Disability and Development Report found that about 98 per cent of the SDG indicators for persons with disabilities are off track.

This is far more than a statistic – it is a wake-up call.

Persons with disabilities are being left behind.

The world is failing them.

We are seeing growing and stark inequalities across the board – with higher poverty, greater unemployment, deeper food and health insecurity and more limited access to digital technologies.

Women, Indigenous Peoples, rural residents with disabilities, and persons with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities face even greater exclusion.

Not to mention those in humanitarian and emergency situations.

In Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and elsewhere, countless civilians have sustained permanent injuries and deep psychological trauma.

Children with disabilities are especially vulnerable.

Gaza alone has the highest number of child amputees in modern history.

Too often, persons with disabilities also face inaccessible evacuation routes, shelters, and services – an assault on their human rights and dignity.

Many are deprived of the assistive devices critical to their survival.

When I think of people with disabilities in conflict, I think of people like Mai.

Mai was a young Palestinian, and a proud employee of the United Nations, living and working in Gaza.

Mai did not let her muscular dystrophy or her wheelchair confine her dreams.

She was a top student, became a software developer and devoted her skills to working on information technology for the United Nations.

When given the opportunity, she excelled – bringing skill and determination to all she did.

Unfortunately, she was killed along with her family in November 2023.

Her story still weighs heavily on our hearts.

I share it not only to honour her memory, but because it reminds us both of what is possible when barriers are removed – and of the terrible truth that persons with disabilities are often among the first casualties in conflict.

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Despite the challenges, we have much to build upon.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has led to significant legislative progress worldwide.

Yet, implementation is lagging.

The problem is not always a lack of will, but a lack of resources.

Nearly 90 per cent of developing countries have laws or policies protecting education for persons with disabilities – yet only about one-third of those countries have accessible schools.

Meanwhile, almost half of all persons with disabilities in these countries face inaccessible transportation.

Behind these figures are people.

Children shut out of classrooms.

Adults who cannot get to work.

Families denied essential services.

This must change.

And we must all be part of it.

The United Nations is committed to leading by example.

Our UN Disability Inclusion Strategy is striving to drive action across the system.

We are working to strengthen institutional capacities, mainstream disability inclusion across our work, and expand employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

At the country level, we are working to ensure that our cooperation frameworks with governments are fully inclusive of the needs and rights of persons with disabilities.

And we are committed to supporting Member States turn global commitments into local progress – for and with persons with disabilities.

This Summit presents opportunities to strengthen cooperation with all partners – and reaffirm the leadership of organizations of persons with disabilities.

Development assistance for disability inclusion has been growing – but it is still far from enough.

And in today’s troubling context, it is under increasing threat.

So too, perversely, is the very concept of accessibility.

Developed countries, in particular, have a responsibility to step up support.

Now is the time to recommit to the 2030 Agenda by:

Securing decent work and dignified livelihoods;

Fostering inclusive education and career opportunities;

Building accessible and affordable housing;

Promoting equitable health systems;

And harnessing technologies that enable autonomous living for all.

That means investing in inclusive public institutions;

Empowering representative organizations as full partners in policy and implementation;

And integrating disability inclusion into national development plans – backed by clear targets and real funding.

Dear friends,

I know so many of you have spent years, even decades, breaking down barriers, and opening doors – for all of us.

Let this Summit help drive that action forward.

As we look ahead to the Second World Summit for Social Development in Qatar and beyond, let’s together send a clear message:

Inclusion is not optional.

Rights are not negotiable.

Accessibility is essential.

Promises made must be promises kept.

Let’s keep fighting for the inclusive, just, sustainable future for all that our world needs.

Thank you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra tourism industry wins big at national awards
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Staffed by VisitCanberra, the CRVC at Commonwealth Park offers an exceptional experience for visitors and locals alike.
The ACT has won seven awards at the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Gold awards

The Canberra Region Visitors Centre (CRVC) was named best Visitor Information Service in Australia, leading the awards for the Territory’s tourism industry.

Staffed by VisitCanberra, the CRVC at Commonwealth Park offers an exceptional experience for visitors and locals alike.

It attracts 220,000 visitors each year, many of whom head to the CRVC as their first port of call.

Two other local entrants won gold at the Awards. They are:
- the National Capital Authority for the Lights on the Lake event, in the Events and Festivals category
- the Royal Australian Mint in the Cultural Tourism category.
Silver awards
- The Museum Shop at the National Museum of Australia took home silver in the Tourism, Retail and Hire Services category
- Alivio Tourist Park won silver for Caravan and Holiday Parks
- Jamala Lodge won silver for Unique Accommodation
Bronze award
- The National Arboretum was awarded bronze in the Ecotourism category.
Ongoing success

Canberra’s tourism industry is unique. The past year has seen record leisure and visiting friends and family (VFR) numbers, and the Territory’s events, venues and business continue to provide new and enticing experiences for visitors.

As a result of the industry’s hard work, Canberra is on track to grow the value of tourism to the ACT economy to $4 billion by 2030.

This focuses on the ACT Government’s tourism 2030 strategic vision of a thriving, sustainable destination that benefits Canberrans.

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MIL OSI News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: More affordable rentals for Canberra
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The 54 new units will be affordable rentals and include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
The ACT Government is investing in the delivery of more affordable rental properties in Woden.

Marymead CatholicCare Canberra and Goulburn will deliver a 54-unit build-to-rent development in Curtin.

This is supported by the ACT Government’s $60 million Affordable Housing Project Fund.

All 54 units will be affordable rentals and include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Construction is expected to begin in mid-2025 and be completed by mid-to-late 2026, pending planning approvals.

The Government established the Affordable Housing Project Fund in 2023 to grow the supply of affordable rental properties in Canberra and strengthen the community housing sector.

The Curtin development is one of six projects identified for support under the fund. Others include:
- a CHC Australia and Canberra Southern Cross Club 140-unit build-to-rent project in Phillip, which will include 70 affordable rental units; and
- the Government’s $4.5 million contribution to the Ginninderry women’s housing initiative – a partnership between Housing Australia and CHC Australia as part of a joint venture to deliver the first women’s housing build-to-rent-to-buy pilot program.
In total, the six projects are expected to deliver up to 280 new affordable rental properties in Canberra.

These will contribute to the Government’s commitment to deliver 600 additional affordable rentals by 2025–26.

“Marymead CatholicCare is extremely excited to partner with the ACT Government and the Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn’s North Woden Parish to deliver a brand new affordable rental development in Curtin,” Marymead CatholicCare Canberra and Goulburn CEO Anne Kirwan said.

“This project has been five years in the making, and we have worked closely with the ACT Government to support this initiative and enable the Archdiocese to be able to use its own land to meet a growing need within our community – housing.

“This build will increase rental supply in the ACT for individuals and families who earn less than $100,000 and who are experiencing rental distress,” Anne said.

Community housing providers and landholders are encouraged to submit proposals to access the Affordable Housing Project Fund.

They can do this via the Government’s request for proposal process, which closes on 9 April 2024.

More information is available on the Government’s Housing website.

Build to rent, which is aimed at increasing the supply of rental properties available for long-term tenure, is an important part of the Government’s ACT Housing Strategy to improve rental supply and affordability.

With the Canberra population on track to reach half-a-million people by 2027, the project will help ensure the right mix of housing options for a growing city.

The Government will announce further community housing partnerships for affordable build-to-rent projects soon.

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MIL OSI News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Father and Son Executives Charged with Defrauding Sports Park Bondholders

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

Former Chairman and CEO Raised More Than $280 Million Using Forged Documents and Fake Revenue Projections

Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Christopher G. Raia, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging RANDY MILLER, former Chairman and President of Legacy Sports, and his son, CHAD MILLER, former CEO of Legacy Sports, with engaging in a scheme to defraud investors of more than $280 million in two municipal bond offerings. RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER were arrested today and will be presented tomorrow in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan.

Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “As alleged, Randy Miller and Chad Miller swindled investors out of over a quarter of a billion dollars by selling municipal bonds they knew were backed by forgeries and lies. Municipal bonds fund critical public projects and investors rely on accurate financial disclosures to make informed decisions. This Office is committed to protecting the integrity of the public finance system. When individuals abuse that system and investors’ trust, we will hold them accountable.”

FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia said: “Fathers and sons have found shared bonds in sports for generation. Randy and Chad Miller allegedly chose to use a planned sports complex as a means to exploit and defraud investors. The Millers allegedly executed the scheme using fraudulent documents to lie about the status of the proposed project in order to raise hundreds of millions of dollars which they used to enrich themselves. The FBI will continue to ensure a level playing field by holding fraudsters accountable in the criminal justice system.”

According to the allegations contained in the Indictment:[1]

From November 2019 through May 2023, RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER engaged in a scheme to defraud investors in municipal bonds used to fund the development of a major sports complex in Mesa, Arizona called Legacy Park. The defendants worked together and with others to lie to potential bond investors about the interest sports organizations and other potential customers had in using or relocating to Legacy Park. The defendants and their associates forged and altered purported “binding” letters of intent and other documents from those potential customers to make it appear that the customers were committing to holding many events at Legacy Park, with a significant number of spectators, and agreeing to pay large fees – all far beyond what the organizations were considering, if they were considering Legacy Park at all. In some instances, RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER signed and directed others to sign customers’ names without the customers’ knowledge or permission. At other times the defendants copied and directed others to copy the signatures of other customers onto the fabricated letters, again without the customers’ knowledge or permission. As part of their scheme, the defendants forged documents on behalf of numerous persons and organizations, including an organization that promotes sports for disabled athletes.

RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER presented the fraudulent documents to prospective bond investors and incorporated them into their solicitation materials by claiming that Legacy Park would be 100% occupied at opening and would generate nearly $100 million in revenue in its first year of operations, more than enough to cover the bond payments.

After the Legacy Park bonds were sold to investors, RANDY MILLER and CHAD MILLER used some of the proceeds to pay for personal expenses such as a home and SUVs. The defendants also paid themselves inflated salaries and withdrew hundreds of thousands of dollars in addition to their salaries.

While the defendants enriched themselves, Legacy Park struggled to survive. The park opened in 2022, but within months failed to generate enough revenue to make the monthly bond payments, and by October 2022 it was in default. On May 1, 2023, the project filed for bankruptcy and was later sold for less than $26 million. Of those proceeds, less than $2.5 million went to repay the approximately $284 million owed to Legacy Park bondholders. Accordingly, because of the defendants’ fraud, bondholders were left with near total losses.

* * *

RANDY MILLER, 70, and CHAD MILLER, 41, both of Phoenix, Arizona, were both charged in the Indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud, which carries a maximum term of five years in prison; one count of securities fraud and one count of wire fraud, each of which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison; and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison.

The mandatory minimum and maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.

Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding work of the FBI. Mr. Podolsky also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed a parallel civil action.

The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Courtney L. Heavey and Matthew R. Shahabian are in charge of the prosecution.

[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

MIL Security OSI –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: American Rebel CEO Andy Ross to Appear on South Florida Television Morning Shows on NBC-TV Channel 5 West Palm Beach and 39 WSFL – Home of the Florida Panthers
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Television Appearances and Potential Investor Meeting at Mar-a-Lago Signal Big Moves for the Nations Fast-Growing Beer Brand, American Rebel Light Beer.

Nashville, TN, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is excited to announce that its CEO Andy Ross will appear on two south Florida morning shows on NBC-TV Channel 5 West Palm Beach and 39 WSFL – Home of the Florida Panthers. Andy’s segments will be taped for airing later in the week. Andy will also meet with potential investors at Mar-a-Lago.

Florida: A Cornerstone in American Rebel Beer’s Strategic Growth and CEO’s Investor Relations Outreach

“I’m looking forward to getting back to south Florida to meet with potential investors and tell the American Rebel story,” said Andy Ross. “Maybe second only to New York, south Florida is home to many important investor contacts for American Rebel and the opportunity to meet with potential investors at Mar-a-Lago will be a great experience.”

“Sharing the American Rebel story on television is a great way to expand American Rebel awareness with potential customers and grow our distribution network,” continued Andy Ross. “Florida is one of our next states to add to our rapidly growing list of states where American Rebel Beer is available. We’re looking forward to opening Florida in the next couple of months as a lot of beer is sold in Florida.”

“Earlier this year I appeared on the ABC-TV outlet in Tampa on their morning show Morning Blend and later that week performed a concert at the Bradenton Motorsports Park at the conclusion of the SCAG Power Equipment Pro Shootout,” said Andy Ross. “Florida is going to be a great state for American Rebel Beer since Florida is a great racing state and our sponsorship of the Matt Hagan Funny Car for Tony Stewart Racing opens a lot of doors for American Rebel Beer.”

For more information on American Rebel Beer, go to americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

About American Rebel Light Beer

Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

About Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Nitro

As tenacious as Stewart is in the cockpit of a racecar, he’s proven equally adept at providing cars and equipment for racing’s elite. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion can also list 31 owners’ titles to his resume, from NASCAR to USAC to the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series. In 2023 Stewart earned his 31st owner title when Matt Hagan and the TSR Funny Car team earned the championship on November 11th. His team, Tony Stewart Racing, fields a powerhouse lineup in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series with Tony in Top Fuel and Matt Hagan in Funny Car. After more than four decades of racing around in circles, Stewart has embarked on a straight and narrow path, albeit at more than 300 mph. For more information on TSR Nitro go to tsrnitro.com.

About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit www.americanrebel.com and www.americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit www.americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
info@americanrebel.com

American Rebel Beverages, LLC
Todd Porter, President
tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of marketing outreach efforts, actual placement timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and our recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Company Contact:
tporter@americanrebelbeer.com
info@americanrebel.com

Media Contact:
Matt Sheldon
Matt@PrecisionPR.co

Attachment
- American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
The MIL Network –
April 3, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Foreign Exchange and Liquidity and Monthly Balance Sheet, March 2025

Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

THE FOREIGN-EXCHANGE RESERVE

In March 2025, the foreign-exchange reserve decreased by kr. 1.2 billion to kr. 655.9 billion. The decrease reflects Danmarks Nationalbank’s net sale of foreign exchange for kr. 0.5 billion, and the central government’s net repayment of foreign debt for kr. 0.7 billion, cf. table 1.

For settlement in March, Danmarks Nationalbank has not intervened in the foreign exchange market.

Danmarks Nationalbank’s net foreign-exchange purchases and the change in the foreign-exchange reserve – table 1

Kr. billion	March 2025	January 2025 – March 2025

Danmarks Nationalbank’s interventions* to purchase foreign exchange, net	0.0	0.0
Other**	-0.5	-0.1
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net foreign-exchange purchases	-0.5	-0.1
The central government’s net foreign borrowing***	-0.7	1.5
Change in the foreign-exchange reserve	-1.2	1.4

Note: Details may not add because of rounding and previously published figure may have been revised. All transactions as per settlement date.

* Intervention takes place when Danmarks Nationalbank purchases and sells foreign exchange for Danish kroner in the foreign-exchange market in order to stabilise the exchange rate.

** Comprises e.g. interest accrued on the foreign-exchange reserve, the central government’s net payments in foreign exchange, and changes in the banks’ deposits in euro-denominated accounts at Danmarks Nationalbank.

*** Including net payments to the central government in foreign exchange as a result of currency swaps.

DEVELOPMENT IN LIQUIDITY

In March, the central government’s net financing requirement amounted to kr. -47.4 billion. Since the turn of the year, the central government’s net financing requirement has been kr. -69.7 billion, cf. table 2.

The net position of the banks and mortgage-credit institutes vis-à-vis Danmarks Nationalbank decreased by kr. 40.1 billion in March, to an outstanding amount of kr. 196.9 billion. In March, the central government’s liquidity impact decreased the net position by kr. 41.0 billion.

Impact of various factors on the net position of the banks and mortgage-credit institutes via-a-vis Danmarks Nationalbank – table 2

Kr. billion	March 2025	January 2025 – March 2025

The central government’s net financing	-47.4	-69.7
Redemption on domestic central-government debt*	9.9	23.4
Net bond purchases by the government funds and own portfolio and financing of social housing	0.6	-0.7
Other**	0.7	0.8
The central government’s gross domestic financing requirement	-36.2	-46.2
The central government’s gross domestic borrowing***	4.8	20.2
The central government’s liquidity impact	-41.0	-66.4
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net foreign-exchange purchases	-0.5	-0.1
Danmarks Nationalbank’s net bond purchases	0.7	0.5
Other factors****	0.7	2.5
Change in net position	-40.1	-63.5

Note: Details may not add because of rounding and previously published figure may have been revised. All transactions as per settlement date.

* Including krone-denominated payments by the central government in currency swaps.

** Comprises foreign net financing requirement and changes in net collateral for the government’s swap portfolio.

*** Gross long-term borrowing, net short-term borrowing and krone-denominated payments to the central government in currency swaps.

**** Comprises e.g. changes in banknotes and coins in circulation.

DANMARKS NATIONALBANK’S INTEREST RATES

Since 7 March 2025 the discount rate has been 2.1 pct. p.a., since 7 March 2025 the current-account interest rate has been 2.1 pct. p.a., since 7 March 2025 the lending rate has been 2.25 pct. p.a. and since 7 March 2025 the rate of interest on certificates of deposit has been 2.1 pct. p.a.

Enquiries can be directed to press advisor Teis Hald Jensen on tel. +45 3363 6066.

BALANCE SHEET OF DANMARKS NATIONALBANK 31 MARCH 2025

Assets	2025	2025
1000 kr.	31/03	28/02
Stock of gold	40,309,044	40,309,044
Foreign assets	566,903,540	563,349,604
Claims on the International Monetary Fund	58,795,259	58,683,071
Claims related to banks’ and mortgage credit institutes’ TARGET accounts in ECB	31,871	32,772
Monetary-policy lending	42,500,000	–
Other lending	1,115,648	1,037,197
– Banks’1)	1,115,648	1,037,197
– Miscellaneous loans	–	–
Domestic bonds	34,339,090	33,648,312
Financial fixed assets, etc.	131,550	131,550
Tangible and intangible fixed assets	713,929	715,190
Other assets	4,708,505	4,872,019
	749,548,436	702,778,759

1) Other lending to banks include loans for cash deposits.

Liabilities	2025	2025
1000 kr.	31/03	28/02
Banknotes	46,643,535	46,880,067
Coins	6,099,641	6,101,100
Monetary-policy deposits	239,426,941	237,050,144
– Current accounts	239,426,941	237,050,144
– Certificates of deposit	–	–
Other deposits	14,825,201	15,191,388
– Deposits related to banks’ and mortgage credit institutes’ TARGET accounts in ECB	31,871	32,772
– Other deposits from banks’ and mortgage credit institutes’	1,105,229	1,407,732
– Miscellaneous deposits	13,688,101	13,750,884
Central government	279,684,059	239,437,163
Foreign liabilities	10,131,593	5,300,892
Counterpart of Special Drawing Rights allocated by the IMF (SDR)	45,039,776	45,039,776
Other liabilities	6,858,765	24,071,249
Capital and reserves	100,838,925	83,706,980
	749,548,436	702,778,759

Note: The monthly balance sheet is calculated at beginning of year values +/- accumulated transaction values. The monthly balance does not include value adjustments and accruals, as these are only calculated at year-end, cf. Danmarks Nationalbank’s accounting principles.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 3, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: CIT supports the electrification of Canberra

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

CIT’s Electric Vehicle Certificate III is the first course of its kind in Australia.

Canberra is transitioning away from the use of fossil fuels and towards electrification, which means the future is looking different for Canberrans – particularly our tradies.

According to ACT Government modelling, Canberra will need at least 1,290 extra electricians and 270 more electrical engineers before 2045.

CIT is helping to ensure that the ACT has people who have the skills to install technology in homes and businesses. The institution is providing important future skills development, particularly in the electrical trades, to prevent local and national skills shortages.

“In Canberra, we have the biggest concentration of electric vehicles to people,” Richard Lindsay, CIT automotive teacher and national VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year 2022, said.

“What that means is that the demand on the servicing industry in Canberra is growing higher and higher by the month.

“Being at the forefront of the transition with the Electric Vehicle Certificate III is definitely helping to make sure that the industry is ready for the increase in customer demand that is coming through,” Richard said.

Until this year, CIT was the only training organisation in Australia delivering this course. Richard says that it is a point of pride for both students and the staff at CIT.

“For the students going through the brand-new Certificate III, the thought of being some of the first fully qualified electric vehicle technicians in Australia is a huge thing for their status in the automotive industry. They’re going to be leaders in their field,” he said.

The course is attracting attention from a broad range of students.

“From an apprentice point of view, we’re seeing a big increase in interest, especially from students who may not have thought about a mechanical path previously,” Richard said.

“Because the vehicles are so autonomous these days with the way they’re working, it’s definitely taking some more interest from the more tech-savvy kids that would have normally gravitated towards a gaming or IT path.”

The ACT Government will propose to the Commonwealth that a new centre of excellence be established at CIT Fyshwick. The centre would expand CIT’s Electric Vehicle Training Centre to train more EV automotive technicians.

Extra funding will support the feasibility of a broader Future Energy Skills Hub at CIT which will incorporate the centre of excellence and support the expansion of training in electrotechnology.

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MIL OSI News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: The people keeping our community clean
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Craig Harrington and his team at the Allara Street depot look after the city.
If you think keeping your house clean is a big effort, spare a thought for the cleaning and maintenance teams who keep Canberra tidy.

Whether it’s your local shops or the city centre, it takes a big effort to keep Canberra clean and safe.

Across Canberra, the ACT Government manages 90 shopping centres. Town centres and group centres are cleaned daily, while local shops vary from daily to three times a week.

Canberra’s cleaning and maintenance teams start their day at 5am with daily responsibilities ranging from leaf blowing and street sweeping to cleaning toilets and emptying garbage bins.

Other duties include:
- picking up litter
- cleaning surfaces
- pruning bushes
- lifting trees
- pressure cleaning pavement
- removal of graffiti
- repairs to damaged street furniture
- minor maintenance of garden beds.
It’s a big job on any given day but after a big event, things can really pick up. This is especially the case for Craig Harrington and his team at the Allara Street depot, who look after the city.

When Craig and his team begin their day, they don’t always know what challenges will await.

“The whole day can be a challenge because you don’t know what you’re going to get until you get on site,” Craig said.

However, Craig loves his job and the crew he works with.

“I like the early starts, I like being out in the open, you’re meeting different people every day,” he said.

He just asks the public to be respectful, give them plenty of space and give them a smile in recognition of the work they do.

“The public could just be a little bit more aware that what we do, we have to do it,” he said.

“But generally, when they see us they could just probably give us a smile and give us a bit of room so we can get on and do what we’re doing.”

Find out more about the ACT Government’s regular maintenance program for local shops by visiting the City Services website.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
MIL OSI News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Takes Orlando’s Questions on Future of Democratic Party, Lowering Costs, Federal Funding Freezes and More on Reddit

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

April 02, 2025

Congressman Frost’s Ask Me Anything (AMA) received over 81,000 views, 1,000 upvotes, and over 350 comments and questions from Redditors in Central Florida.

ORLANDO, FL — Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) joined Reddit users on the r/Orlando subreddit this past Friday to answer questions from Central Floridians concerned about the latest actions from the Trump Administration and what the Congressman is doing to fight back on various issues. Users asked various questions about the state of the economy, the dismantling of federal agencies, federal funding cuts to crucial programs, and the future of the Democratic party.

In case you missed it, here are some of the highlights:

During the AMA, one user asked the Congressman: Do House Democrats have a plan to offer an alternative to Trump’s economic policy?

Congressman Frost replied: “My belief is that we can’t just oppose Trump’s billionaire takeover, we must provide our vision. The vision must be based in the reality that most working people are facing: shit is too expensive and living is unaffordable. Nobody wants to hear about how we’ll marginally make things better, they want bold, transformational change.

Expanding Medicare to cover all Americans so no one has to decide between a medical bill and their rent. Speaking of rent, ensuring that we up the inventory of affordable housing and pass robust protections for renters. Holding corporations accountable for price gouging and price fixing which is contributing to the high costs of living. Raising the minimum wage because nobody can live off of $7.25 an hour. We have a great thing going for us because our agenda is popular. We must forcibly oppose this billionaire takeover and in the next breath, give our vision.

We’re fighting to reclaim this narrative back and to put forward real solutions to give people results. While the Republicans are focused on covering up their SignalGate scandal, Democrats are working on lowering costs. I have been championing price-lowering legislation to fix the property insurance price crisis, decrease grocery prices, ban excessive hidden fees in rental housing, cap the cost of prescription drugs, including EpiPens, and help our community save on medical bills during hurricanes.”

Another user whose daughters’ school will be losing a large portion of their Title I funding asked the Congressman: I worry that the school will lose their free lunches program. I’m fortunate enough that that won’t affect my children personally, but there will be plenty of children affected. What are you doing to fight back for education?

Congressman Frost replied: “Title I funding is especially important in a state like Florida, where the state government not only shows disinterest in the needs of marginalized communities, but is actively trying to dismantle public education.

I am proud to be the son of a retired public school teacher. My mom taught special needs students for 37 years. In February, when it was clear that the Department of Education was under threat, I marched with other Members of Congress to the Department’s doors. It took Department of Homeland Security officers in body armour to keep us out. No matter what Trump says, it will take an act of Congress to truly dismantle the Department of Education, so it is incredibly important that elected officials know how unpopular that goal is. I have been working to organize people in that effort. Parents, teachers, school administrators need to let their elected officials at all levels know that they oppose Trump’s desire to abolish the Department of Education. Making progress at the state level in Florida is hard, which makes a strong Department of Education even more important.”

Another Reddit user asked: I am concerned about Second Harvest getting its government support cut. Is there anything you can do to help?

Congressman Frost replied: “For folks who are catching up on this news, this week the Trump Administration canceled shipments of food for Second Harvest, and we just found out it’s likely not a temporary cut. Being hungry is a tragic and terrible experience that harms people’s physical and mental health and Second Harvest plays such an important role in preventing that. I was able to secure $200,000 for Second Harvest to help them save money on their monthly energy costs to store food, but I’m going to continue to fight for resources for our partner. Over 300 local partners in my district (churches, food pantries, etc.) rely on Second Harvest to help them get food out to our community and the individuals and families that need it.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Tariffs Work — and President Trump’s First Term Proves It

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
For the first time in decades, the United States will see fair trade as President Donald J. Trump announces tariffs to level the playing field for American workers and businesses.
Despite the rhetoric from politicians and the media, studies have repeatedly shown tariffs are an effective tool for achieving economic and strategic objectives — just as they did in President Trump’s first term.
A 2024 study on the effects of President Trump’s tariffs in his first term found that they “strengthened the U.S. economy” and “led to significant reshoring” in industries like manufacturing and steel production.
A 2023 report by the U.S. International Trade Commission — which analyzed the effects of President Trump’s Section 232 and 301 tariffs on more than $300 billion of U.S. imports — found the tariffs reduced imports from China, effectively stimulated more U.S. production of the affected goods, and had very minor effects on downstream prices.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, the tariffs implemented by President Trump during his first term “clearly show[ed] no correlation with inflation” and had only a fleeting effect on overall prices.
Economic Policy Institute: “Following implementation of Sec. 232 measures in 2018—and prior to the global downturn in 2020—U.S. steel output, employment, capital investment, and financial performance all improved. In particular, U.S. steel producers announced plans to invest more than $15.7 billion in new or upgraded steel facilities, creating at least 3,200 direct new jobs, many of which are now poised to come online.”

An analysis by the Atlantic Council found that “tariffs would create new incentives for US consumers to buy US-made products.”
Former Biden Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen affirmed last year that tariffs do not raise prices: “I don’t believe that American consumers will see any meaningful increase in the prices that they face.”
A 2024 economic analysis found that a global tariff of 10% would grow the economy by $728 billion, create 2.8 million jobs, and increase real household incomes by 5.7%.
President Trump’s first term steel tariffs led to thousands of jobs gains in the metal industry, along with wage increases.
The tariffs were hailed as a “boon” for Minnesota’s iron ore industry, with state officials crediting them for bolstering the local economy.
Steel and aluminum imports drastically decreased during President Trump’s first term, falling by nearly one-third from 2016 to 2020.
The tariffs led to a wave in investment across the United States, with more than $10 billion committed to build new mills.

The Hill: “The Trump tariffs keep working, to the consternation of many economists”
S&P Global: “Global Trade At A Crossroads: Trump Tariffs Forge Better Credit Quality For U.S.-Based Steel And Aluminum Producers With A Protectionist Stance”
IndustryWeek: “Tariffs Are Keeping US Steel Production Strong”
“With steel imports down, America’s steelmakers have started investing at home. In addition to Nucor and US Steel, companies like Cleveland-Cliffs, Steel Dynamics, CMC, and AK Steel have invested billions of dollars in at least 16 major new projects throughout the nation. The top five US steel companies more than doubled their total annual investments between 2017 to 2019, from $1.5 billion to $4.2 billion.”

Predictably, the media was wrong.
PBS (2018): “Trump tariffs may imperil a delicate global economic rebound”
“President Donald Trump’s announcement Thursday that the United States would impose heavy tariffs on imported steel and aluminum — with some countries potentially exempted — suddenly raised a fear that few had anticipated: That U.S. tariffs could trigger a chain of tit-for-tat retaliation by America’s trading partners that could erupt into a full-blown trade war and possibly threaten the global economy.”

NPR (2018): “Trump Plan To Impose Tariffs on Steel, Aluminum Raises Trade War Fears”
“Chad Bown, an economist and trade specialist, says the tariffs will drive up the price of steel and aluminum for the multiple other industries that use the metals. Those industries actually employ more people than the steel and aluminum sectors, he says, ‘so this is a really big concern, just from an economic perspective.’”

The New Yorker (2019): “Trump’s Trade War Could Make the Trump Recession a Reality”
“What we do know for sure is that, the longer Donald Trump persists in his trade war, the greater the chances are of an outright slump developing.”

Politico (2018): “Trump blasted at home and abroad for plan to impose steel, aluminum tariffs”
“President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs of 25 percent on steel imports and 10 percent on aluminum reverberated across the world Thursday, spurring retaliatory threats from some of the nation’s closest allies and sending stock prices plummeting on investors’ fears of the global economic fallout.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: 4 Chinese nationals sentenced for roles in complex fraud scheme, following multiagency investigation
Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

LOS ANGELES — Four Chinese nationals were sentenced to federal prison March 17 for participating in a complex identity theft scheme that sought to defraud multiple domestic retailers out of at least $1.2 million.

As part of the scheme, the defendants stole the personally identifiable information of hundreds of victims — including Social Security numbers, dates of birth and home addresses — and used that information to make fake driver’s licenses to access credit in the victims’ names at large national retailers, including Ulta Beauty, Sephora, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Kohl’s, Williams-Sonoma, Dillard’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.

The defendants, all Chinese nationals, entered the United States under false pretenses.
- Kar Kee “Steven” Cheung, 36, of Chino Hills, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of visa fraud, one count of possession of equipment used to manufacture false identification documents, and one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud.
- Qian Guo, 37, of Chino Hills, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for one count of possession of equipment used to manufacture false identification documents and one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud.
- Chongming “Ming” Wang, 28, of Temple City, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and one count of aiding and abetting access device fraud in excess of $1,000.
- Jiaozhu “Yanny” Yan, 30, of Alhambra, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison for one count of visa fraud.
All four pleaded guilty on Jan. 6.

The fifth defendant in this case, Sizhen “Rachel” Liu, 35, also of Chino Hills, was previously sentenced Jan. 6 to 50 months in federal prison for one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and one count of access device fraud in excess of $1,000.

The sixth and final defendant, Hyun Woo “Scott” Jung, 30, of Ontario, pleaded guilty Feb. 10 to one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and one count of possession with intent to use unlawfully five or more false identification documents. Jung is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5.

The State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service is conducting the ongoing investigation. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI provided substantial assistance, in addition to support from the Alhambra Police Department, the Arcadia Police Department and the Bel Air, Maryland Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorney Kim Meyer of the Violent and Organized Crime Section handled the prosecution.

MIL OSI USA News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pharr resident charged with production of child sexual abuse material after attempting to exit U.S. into Mexico with minor

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

McALLEN, Texas – A 26-year-old Pharr resident has been charged with producing child pornography involving a 16-year-old minor, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Carlo Ivan Hurtado is expected to appear for a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge J. Scott Hacker at 11:15 a.m.

The criminal complaint, filed March 28, alleges Hurtado arrived at the Hidalgo Port of Entry with a 16-year-old female passenger attempting to exit the United States. She had allegedly left home without her parent’s permission.

Upon questioning, the minor reported she and Hurtado had stayed in a hotel room the night before in McAllen, according to the charges. She allegedly claimed she and Hurtado had sexual intercourse and recorded it using the minor female’s Snapchat account.

The complaint alleges law enforcement conducted a search of her phone and discovered sexually explicit images and videos of her and Hurtado.

If convicted, Hurtado faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a possible fine of up to $250,000.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Alexis Garcia is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.

MIL Security OSI –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luttrell Champions Service Dogs for Veterans with New Bill
Source:

WASHINGTON — Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Chairman of Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee on House Veterans’ Affairs Committee (HVAC), introduced the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to award grants to nonprofit organizations to assist with programs to provide service dogs to eligible veterans. This bill includes training for the service dog and extends the availability of this program to other veteran disabilities, such as blind, deaf, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), military sexual trauma, paralysis, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

It is estimated that upwards of 20% of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, and more than 450,000 service members have been diagnosed with at least one traumatic brain injury over the past two decades. As a result, these veterans suffer from alarmingly high rates of depression, anxiety, joblessness, homelessness, and substance use disorders. Far too often, they resort to taking their own lives, with nearly 17 veterans dying by suicide each day.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and we owe it to them to provide every possible resource to support their recovery and well-being. For many veterans, service dogs are not just companions, they are life-changing partners that provide independence, stability, and purpose.

“The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act will ensure more veterans have access to highly trained service dogs, expanding support beyond PTSD to include those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, military sexual trauma, and other service-related conditions. This is about giving our heroes the tools they need to thrive — not just survive —when they come home,” said Congressman Luttrell.

“Service dogs have a proven track record of providing lifesaving assistance to Veterans in critical need,” said Bill McCabe, Vice President of Government & External Affairs at K9s For Warriors. “The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act will ultimately put more service dogs in the hands of Veterans with visible and invisible disabilities, allowing them to regain their independence and reintegrate into civilian life. We applaud this bipartisan effort and urge Congress to pass this important legislation without delay.”

“America’s VetDogs proudly supports the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act—a crucial step toward expanding access to accredited service dogs for veterans with physical disabilities, PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, hearing loss, blindness, and more. Serving America’s heroes in all 50 states and beyond, we are honored to provide custom-trained service dogs, free of charge, to U.S. veterans, helping them regain independence, restore confidence, and Live Without Boundaries. Through our work with veteran suicide prevention coalitions like Face the Fight and by training exceptional service dogs like Sully H.W. Bush—who served President George H.W. Bush and continues his mission at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center—we witness the life-changing impact of these dogs every day. We urge Congress to pass this vital legislation and ensure that more veterans receive the support they deserve,” said John Miller, president and CEO, America’s VetDogs and Guide Dog Foundation.

Background:
- Tens of thousands of service dogs help veterans with disabilities across the U.S.
- Service dogs assist with conditions like blindness, mobility impairments, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury.
- The bipartisan the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act establishes a VA grant program to fund nonprofit organizations providing trained service dogs to eligible veterans at no cost.
- Nonprofits must meet requirements, including training standards and aftercare services, and be accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or a similar organization.
- The program aims to support veterans with disabilities like PTSD, TBI, military sexual trauma, and more.
This legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Morgan McGarvey (D-KY)(Co-Lead), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), Eleanor Norton Holmes (D-DC), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Don Davis (D-NC), David Valadao (R-CA), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Wesley Hunt (R-TX), Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS), John Rutherford (R-NE), Jason Crow (D-CO), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Nancy Mace (R-SC), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Michael Rulli (R-OH), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Craig Goldman (R-TX), August Pfluger (R-TX), Nick LaLota (R-NY).

Several veterans organizations have endorsed this legislation, including: American Veterans (AMVETS), Americas Warrior Partnership (AWP), American Kennel Club (AKC), American Humane, Americas VetDogs, Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Chief Warrant Officers Association (CWOA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Dog Tag Buddies, Elizabeth Dole Foundation (EDF), Guardian Angels, HunterSeven Foundation, Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Jewish War Veterans of America (JWV), K9s For Warriors, Lions Club International, National Military Families Association (NMFA), Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Pet Advocacy Network, Retrieving Freedom, Semper K9 Assistance Dogs, The American Legion (TAL), The Independence Fund (TIF), Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), TREA: The Enlisted Association (TREA), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Warrior Canine Connection, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

MIL OSI USA News –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Liberia Presents Credentials

Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

(Based on information provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

The new Permanent Representative of Liberia to the United Nations, Lewis Garseedah Brown II, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

Mr. Brown returns to the post after a previous tenure from March 2016 to September 2018. During that time, he served as Vice-President of the seventy-second session of the General Assembly and chaired the Assembly’s Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization). Throughout his career, he has held several key Government positions. He served as the Government’s Chief Spokesperson in the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism. He was also Liberia’s Chief Negotiator at the Accra Comprehensive Peace Conference.

In 2003, Mr. Brown served as Minister for Foreign Affairs. Prior to that, he held roles in the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs as National Security Advisor and Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company. Additionally, he was a member of Liberia’s Transitional Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Brown holds a Master of Science in management from Johns Hopkins University in the United States, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Liberia.

__________

* This supersedes Press Release BIO/4854 of 30 June 2016.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 3, 2025

MIL-OSI: WISeKey, OISTE Foundation, Abraham House (AbrahamID.Com), and GFLI Announce Major Milestone in Landmark Global Initiative to Deliver Digital Identity to Over One Billion People

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

WISeKey, OISTE Foundation, Abraham House (AbrahamID.Com), and GFLI Announce Major Milestone in Landmark Global Initiative to Deliver Digital Identity to Over One Billion People

New York | April 2, 2025 – WISeKey International Holding (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: WKEY; SIX: WIHN), in collaboration with the OISTE Foundation, Abraham House, and the Global Financial Literacy Initiative (GFLI), today announced significant progress in the global AbrahamID.com initiative, a groundbreaking humanitarian technology project aimed at providing secure digital identities to more than one billion unbanked and underserved individuals worldwide.

See more information by visiting this video – https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MXJSQmftxPGo_Yc47R-7_i07km5Ldvkl/view?usp=drivesdk.

This transformative initiative was first introduced at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2025, where it received global media coverage, including features in the Financial Times and other leading international outlets. It will be officially launched tomorrow in New York during the Partners for Prosperity Summit, an event hosted by FinFit in collaboration with Salary Finance, and powered by SHINE at Harvard. The summit is not just a gathering—it is a global catalyst for systems-level change, bringing together innovators, policy-makers, philanthropists, and technologists committed to reshaping the future of inclusion, equity, and prosperity.

At the heart of this announcement is the launch of the AbrahamID.com platform, now live and operational. Through this secure digital portal, individuals from every corner of the globe can create their verified digital identity, opening the door to critical services and opportunities that were previously out of reach. These include access to financial services, healthcare, education, employment, voting systems, and social safety nets, especially in regions where individuals lack official documentation or access to banking systems.

Built on WISeKey’s WISeID platform and underpinned by the OISTE Foundation’s global cryptographic Root of Trust, the platform utilizes cutting-edge blockchain, AI, and post-quantum cryptography to ensure data integrity, privacy, and cross-border interoperability. These identities are tamper-proof, privacy-respecting, and legally recognized—making them suitable for use by individuals, NGOs, and governments in both the physical and digital domains.

This initiative directly supports multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). By addressing the fundamental right to identity and financial access, the AbrahamID project lays the foundation for social and economic inclusion at an unprecedented scale.

The platform is especially transformative for marginalized populations—refugees, displaced persons, women in rural communities, youth in informal labor markets, and migrant workers—who often remain invisible to formal systems due to the lack of identification. AbrahamID offers these individuals a secure and portable identity solution that is lightweight, mobile-compatible, and functional even in low-bandwidth environments.

To complement the digital infrastructure, the initiative integrates the work of the Global Financial Literacy Initiative (GFLI), co-founded by James Rosebush and Daniel Shakhani. GFLI provides practical, culturally relevant financial education to empower individuals with the tools to manage money, plan for the future, and break free from poverty. Combined with digital identity, this dual approach equips individuals not just with access, but with the agency and knowledge to fully engage in today’s digital economy.

“Digital identity is the gateway, but financial literacy is the roadmap,” said James Rosebush, a globally recognized financial advisor, author, and former senior advisor to President Ronald Reagan. “Together, they enable people to not just survive—but thrive. We’re proud to contribute to this historic effort that bridges technology and humanity.”

Daniel Shakhani, co-founder of Abraham House, emphasized the moral urgency behind the mission. “As the world becomes more digitized, millions are being left behind. Without identity, people are denied opportunity, justice, and dignity. Abraham House exists to bring together the world’s most forward-thinking minds and ensure innovation serves humanity equitably. This partnership with WISeKey and GFLI is about impact at scale—driving global justice, economic empowerment, and digital inclusion.”

Co-founded by Shakhani and Jennifer de Broglie, Abraham House serves as a global convener dedicated to solving systemic humanitarian challenges through collaboration, diplomacy, and entrepreneurship. With the AbrahamID.com platform now active, this vision is being brought to life as a real-time, scalable solution for peace and prosperity.

The technology behind this initiative—WISeID—offers not just a tool for access, but a framework for trusted, ethical, and future-proof digital citizenship. Legally binding digital signatures, encrypted communications, and post-quantum protections ensure that even the most vulnerable individuals are shielded from rising cybersecurity threats and misuse of AI. In an age where identity fraud, digital surveillance, and algorithmic bias disproportionately affect underserved populations, this platform provides digital dignity and control over personal data.

The range of immediate applications is vast and deeply impactful. Migrant workers can receive secure remittances, patients can access healthcare records, students can register for education, and entrepreneurs can apply for microloans. In fragile states and diaspora communities, digital identity can also restore civic participation by enabling secure digital voting and engagement in public decision-making.

WISeKey, along with its subsidiaries—including SEALSQ, WISe.ART, WISeSat, and SEALCOIN—continues to pioneer responsible, human-centric innovation. As a Swiss-based global technology leader, WISeKey is committed to embedding trust, privacy, and resilience at the core of digital ecosystems, working toward a future where technology uplifts, protects, and empowers every person.

Governments, NGOs, corporations, and individuals are now invited to join this global movement by visiting www.AbrahamID.com, where they can register identities, support deployments, and become part of the mission to digitally and financially empower over one billion people.

#AbrahamID #DigitalDignity #OneBillionStrong #FinancialInclusion #IdentityForAll #TechForGood #SDGs #WISeID #OISTE #AbrahamHouse #GFLI #DigitalInclusion #HumanCentricAI

About Abraham House
Abraham House is a global organisation dedicated to fostering peace, collaboration, and innovation. It unites individuals and organisations to address global challenges and deliver tangible benefits for future generations.

About the Global Financial Literacy Initiative (GFLI)
Founded by James Rosebush and Daniel Shakhani, GFLI is a UK-registered charity under Kingdom Network and a 501(c)(3) organisation in the United States. It partners with leading organisations to drive financial literacy and stability at scale.

About WISeKey

WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

Disclaimer
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

Press and Investor Contacts

WISeKey International Holding Ltd
Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
Chairman & CEO
Tel: +41 22 594 3000
info@wisekey.com

WISeKey Investor Relations (US)
The Equity Group Inc.
Lena Cati
Tel: +1 212 836-9611
lcati@equityny.com

The MIL Network –

April 3, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: King Cosponsors Effort to Repeal Anti-Voter Executive Order

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) joined his colleagues on legislation that would defend voting rights for all Americans. The Defending America’s Future Elections Act would repeal an Executive Order (EO) that instructs the federal government to review voter registration lists and inserts the federal government into each state’s voting process to prosecute election crimes in states the White House believes are not in compliance with federal law. If implemented, the burdensome voter documentation requirements in the executive order would likely disenfranchise millions of eligible American voters.
In addition to repealing the executive order, the legislation prevents any federal funds from being transferred to or used by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to access state voter registration lists, records concerning voter list maintenance activities, federal databases, or other public or private state records related to federal elections. This provision is important because the EO provides DOGE with subpoena power to pursue this data, which could be used to purge eligible voters from state voter rolls. Noncitizen voting is already a federal crime and incredibly rare, with an analysis of Heritage Foundation data identifying only 68 such cases out of nearly 2 billion votes cast over four decades.
“Since its ratification in 1788, the U.S. Constitution has guided America’s system of government and has been the blueprint for freedom and democracy around the globe,” Senator King said. “The continued success of our unique experiment in self-government relies on each successive generation understanding our shared past, national values, and the framers’ careful – though imperfect – work. If we truly want a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, we must make sure the people have the tools and perspective needed to play their part. The Defending America’s Future Elections Act would ensure that the people can continue to vote for the elected officials that they believe best represent their interests. Not only is this Executive Order illegitimate, it’s also inefficient – there are laws and election boards already in place to maintain the sanctity of the vote.”
Joining King on the legislation are Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
Senator King has long championed increasing civic engagement and historical literacy, especially among younger Americans. As a former member of the Senate Rules Committee, he previously introduced a bipartisan bill, the Civics Secure Democracy Act, which would make a $1 billion annual investment in civics and history at K-12 and higher education institutions across the country. He also introduced bipartisan legislation to designate a National High School Seniors Voter Registration Day to encourage school districts nationwide to help high school seniors register to vote.
Full text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost to British business in the USA as top UK legal firms travel stateside
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Press release

Boost to British business in the USA as top UK legal firms travel stateside

Justice Minister Sarah Sackman has joined home-grown lawtech firms in Chicago this week to showcase how the UK legal sector is putting AI at the front and centre of its services.
UK delegation of Lawtech experts promote UK business on the world stage

Artificial intelligence, technology and innovation at the top of the agenda

Part of Plan for Change to support UK legal sector and drive economic growth

In a boost for British business, a delegation of the best and the brightest legal minds have visited Illinois and New York as part of the Great Legal Services campaign, alongside the Department for Business and Trade.

In both cities, the group met with hundreds of other law firms, businesses and investors from around the world at major lawtech conferences – helping them increase their international business and further boost the UK economy.

Figures show trade in legal services between the US and UK was worth £2.2bn in 2022. Some of the companies in the delegation already turn over £20 million a year and have clients around the world, including in the USA, Singapore and Australia.

Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman KC, said:

We’re kickstarting our economy by harnessing the power of AI, technology and innovation in law. Backing British lawtech will boost businesses and attract international investment as part of our Plan for Change.

In a fast-changing global market, UK law and lawtech are at the cutting edge. This trade mission and Government investment in lawtech will ensure the UK stays in pole position for law while growing the wider economy.

These events support UK lawtechs – companies which make technology or software to provide legal services – to win business and grow their market presence in the United States.

The trip also helped develop a pipeline of US lawtech firms to be set up or expanded in the UK, further cementing the UK’s position as a world leader in legal services and legal technology and supporting smaller regional firms to trade internationally.

His Majesty’s Consul General, British Consulate-General, Richard Hyde said:

Chicago is home to one of the largest and most dynamic legal sectors in the US.

There are huge opportunities for the brightest and best UK legal tech companies.

We were excited to welcome this ministerial led trade mission; it is opening doors for UK innovators and driving growth in the UK and in Illinois.

This mission comes following a recent announcement that the Lawtech UK programme, a government-backed initiative to drive digital transformation in the domestic legal services industry, will be funded for another year to help further the UK’s leading position in the global legal services market.

Overall, the UK’s legal sector generates £37 billion for the UK economy every year. In recent months key agreements have been made with other nations to strengthen the sector – including agreements with Switzerland, Japan, and Greece – by allowing UK lawyers to practise abroad.

Notes to editors:

The GREAT Legal Services campaign was launched in 2017 to promote and support the strength of English and Welsh Law, the UK’s world-renowned independent judiciary, and our legal expertise to the global market, including legal technology.

In the last financial year, the campaign generated more than 800 business connections for UK legal professionals and reached over 2.6 million online in key markets across the world.

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Published 2 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Fake online shops rely on tech skills: what drives Cameroon’s web developers to assist online fraudsters
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Suleman Lazarus, Visiting Fellow, Mannheim Centre for Criminology, London School of Economics and Political Science

When people discuss online fraud, the focus is often on those who directly deceive victims. Little attention is given to those who enable these crimes by providing the digital infrastructure necessary for deception.

This digital infrastructure includes reliable access to electricity and the internet, as well as digital tools such as proxy servers, spoofing software, phishing kits and virtual private networks. Those involved must possess technical competencies in areas like web development, social engineering and systems maintenance, skills that are critical for sustaining fraudulent operations behind the scenes.

Research on cybercrime is expanding in west Africa, particularly studies of Nigeria and Ghana. But Cameroon is understudied. This gap in research has obscured a pervasive problem in Cameroon: website developers who create digital storefronts for fraudsters.

Pet scams are a particularly common type of online fraud perpetrated by Cameroonian fraudsters. This is a form of non-delivery fraud in which victims are tricked into paying for animals that do not exist. Typically, these fake pet websites target prospective pet buyers in countries like the US, Canada and Australia by advertising nonexistent pedigree puppies and kittens as well as exotic animals such as parrots, macaws and tortoises.

Rather than focusing on the fraudsters themselves, our study examined the infrastructure that enables this fraud to happen and the hidden networks of actors who make deception possible. Our research sheds light on a little-known group of enablers: website developers in anglophone Cameroon who knowingly build fake shopping websites.

Through interviews with 14 website developers engaged in this illicit trade, we explored the socio-economic and political forces that drive their participation.

Our findings showed that a mix of economic hardship, social norms and cultural beliefs drive fraud enablement in Cameroon. Our study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of cybercrime. The website developers in Cameroon do not fit the typical profile of a fraudster. They see themselves as skilled workers navigating a complex socio-political landscape where survival often comes before morality, given that Cameroon, under Paul Biya’s presidency of more than 40 years, has experienced widespread poverty, instability and an uncertain succession struggle.

To address fraud effectively, interventions must go beyond simply punishing offenders. Instead, efforts should focus on dismantling the structures that allow fraud to thrive, starting with those who enable it.

Why fraudsters choose this activity

A central theme emerging from our interviews was the impact of the Ambazonian Crisis, an ongoing separatist conflict in Cameroon’s anglophone regions. The crisis began as peaceful demonstrations in 2016 when trade unionists and lawyers protested against the mandatory use of the French language in schools and law courts. By 2017, these protests had turned violent as armed separatist groups emerged within the anglophone regions, engaging in sporadic conflict with government forces. The separatists called for the secession of the two anglophone regions, referring to them as Ambazonia. The conflict has since escalated. Reports estimate that the violence has led to approximately 6,000 civilian deaths, the displacement of 600,000 people within Cameroon, and the forced migration of over 77,000 people into Nigeria as refugees.

The website developers we interviewed described how daily gunfire, displacement and political instability had made it difficult to secure stable employment and find clients.

Interviewees cited frequent power outages and internet blackouts as barriers to working with legitimate clients.

As one developer put it:

There are times when we go without electricity or network for days. I might have a legitimate client, but if the power goes out, I lose the job. Fraudsters, on the other hand, don’t care about delays. They are always there with another request.

Ghost-town protests, where separatists enforce economic shutdowns and force people to stay in their homes, further limit opportunities for legitimate business. In this unstable environment, undertaking website development for fraudsters became one of the few steady income streams.

A second theme was spiritual beliefs. We found that spiritual beliefs had an impact on decision-making. Developers rationalised their work by distinguishing between fraud and fraud enablement. Directly perpetrating fraud against victims, they believed, carried spiritual consequences, while simply building websites for fraudsters did not. Some fraudsters in west Africa visit a so-called “juju priest”, who may demand animal sacrifice and even murder in return for their blessing. The website developers we spoke to did not want to get involved in this.

One of the developers shared his fears about spiritual repercussions:

Scammers who do rituals for money, they don’t last. Most of the time, you see them dying at the age of 20 or 30. I don’t want to be involved in that. But making websites? That’s different. I’m not the one taking the money.

A third theme in our findings was the Big Boy culture, a subculture that glorifies online fraud as a symbol of success. In some west African communities, fraudsters who display their wealth through expensive cars, clothes and lifestyles are seen as role models rather than criminals.

Vanesa, a developer, explained:

Everybody wants to chill with the Big Boys. Fraudsters want to be seen as superstars, and that means spending money like celebrities.

The normalisation of internet fraud in some circles has created a perception that financial success justifies the means by which it is achieved. While some developers disapproved of fraudsters’ extravagant lifestyles, others saw it as a model of economic survival to aspire to.

Rethinking fraud prevention

These findings challenge the simplistic notion that the internet inherently enables fraud. Instead, fraud thrives within a complex ecosystem that includes not just the perpetrators but also the enablers who facilitate deception for economic, political, and cultural reasons.

A more effective fraud prevention strategy should address the enablers of cybercrime, not just the scammers.

This means:
- providing alternative economic opportunities for tech-savvy youth
- investing in reliable infrastructure to support legitimate business development
- understanding cultural attitudes to create more effective awareness campaigns
- recognising the role of spiritual beliefs in shaping perceptions of crime and morality.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Fake online shops rely on tech skills: what drives Cameroon’s web developers to assist online fraudsters – https://theconversation.com/fake-online-shops-rely-on-tech-skills-what-drives-cameroons-web-developers-to-assist-online-fraudsters-252429
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Fake online shops rely on tech skills: what drives Cameroon’s web developers to assist online fraudsters

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Suleman Lazarus, Visiting Fellow, Mannheim Centre for Criminology, London School of Economics and Political Science

When people discuss online fraud, the focus is often on those who directly deceive victims. Little attention is given to those who enable these crimes by providing the digital infrastructure necessary for deception.

This digital infrastructure includes reliable access to electricity and the internet, as well as digital tools such as proxy servers, spoofing software, phishing kits and virtual private networks. Those involved must possess technical competencies in areas like web development, social engineering and systems maintenance, skills that are critical for sustaining fraudulent operations behind the scenes.

Research on cybercrime is expanding in west Africa, particularly studies of Nigeria and Ghana. But Cameroon is understudied. This gap in research has obscured a pervasive problem in Cameroon: website developers who create digital storefronts for fraudsters.

Pet scams are a particularly common type of online fraud perpetrated by Cameroonian fraudsters. This is a form of non-delivery fraud in which victims are tricked into paying for animals that do not exist. Typically, these fake pet websites target prospective pet buyers in countries like the US, Canada and Australia by advertising nonexistent pedigree puppies and kittens as well as exotic animals such as parrots, macaws and tortoises.

Rather than focusing on the fraudsters themselves, our study examined the infrastructure that enables this fraud to happen and the hidden networks of actors who make deception possible. Our research sheds light on a little-known group of enablers: website developers in anglophone Cameroon who knowingly build fake shopping websites.

Through interviews with 14 website developers engaged in this illicit trade, we explored the socio-economic and political forces that drive their participation.

Our findings showed that a mix of economic hardship, social norms and cultural beliefs drive fraud enablement in Cameroon. Our study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of cybercrime. The website developers in Cameroon do not fit the typical profile of a fraudster. They see themselves as skilled workers navigating a complex socio-political landscape where survival often comes before morality, given that Cameroon, under Paul Biya’s presidency of more than 40 years, has experienced widespread poverty, instability and an uncertain succession struggle.

To address fraud effectively, interventions must go beyond simply punishing offenders. Instead, efforts should focus on dismantling the structures that allow fraud to thrive, starting with those who enable it.

Why fraudsters choose this activity

A central theme emerging from our interviews was the impact of the Ambazonian Crisis, an ongoing separatist conflict in Cameroon’s anglophone regions. The crisis began as peaceful demonstrations in 2016 when trade unionists and lawyers protested against the mandatory use of the French language in schools and law courts. By 2017, these protests had turned violent as armed separatist groups emerged within the anglophone regions, engaging in sporadic conflict with government forces. The separatists called for the secession of the two anglophone regions, referring to them as Ambazonia. The conflict has since escalated. Reports estimate that the violence has led to approximately 6,000 civilian deaths, the displacement of 600,000 people within Cameroon, and the forced migration of over 77,000 people into Nigeria as refugees.

The website developers we interviewed described how daily gunfire, displacement and political instability had made it difficult to secure stable employment and find clients.

Interviewees cited frequent power outages and internet blackouts as barriers to working with legitimate clients.

As one developer put it:

There are times when we go without electricity or network for days. I might have a legitimate client, but if the power goes out, I lose the job. Fraudsters, on the other hand, don’t care about delays. They are always there with another request.

Ghost-town protests, where separatists enforce economic shutdowns and force people to stay in their homes, further limit opportunities for legitimate business. In this unstable environment, undertaking website development for fraudsters became one of the few steady income streams.

A second theme was spiritual beliefs. We found that spiritual beliefs had an impact on decision-making. Developers rationalised their work by distinguishing between fraud and fraud enablement. Directly perpetrating fraud against victims, they believed, carried spiritual consequences, while simply building websites for fraudsters did not. Some fraudsters in west Africa visit a so-called “juju priest”, who may demand animal sacrifice and even murder in return for their blessing. The website developers we spoke to did not want to get involved in this.

One of the developers shared his fears about spiritual repercussions:

Scammers who do rituals for money, they don’t last. Most of the time, you see them dying at the age of 20 or 30. I don’t want to be involved in that. But making websites? That’s different. I’m not the one taking the money.

A third theme in our findings was the Big Boy culture, a subculture that glorifies online fraud as a symbol of success. In some west African communities, fraudsters who display their wealth through expensive cars, clothes and lifestyles are seen as role models rather than criminals.

Vanesa, a developer, explained:

Everybody wants to chill with the Big Boys. Fraudsters want to be seen as superstars, and that means spending money like celebrities.

The normalisation of internet fraud in some circles has created a perception that financial success justifies the means by which it is achieved. While some developers disapproved of fraudsters’ extravagant lifestyles, others saw it as a model of economic survival to aspire to.

Rethinking fraud prevention

These findings challenge the simplistic notion that the internet inherently enables fraud. Instead, fraud thrives within a complex ecosystem that includes not just the perpetrators but also the enablers who facilitate deception for economic, political, and cultural reasons.

A more effective fraud prevention strategy should address the enablers of cybercrime, not just the scammers.

This means:

– Fake online shops rely on tech skills: what drives Cameroon’s web developers to assist online fraudsters
– https://theconversation.com/fake-online-shops-rely-on-tech-skills-what-drives-cameroons-web-developers-to-assist-online-fraudsters-252429

MIL OSI Africa –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: Trust Stamp Denmark Joins Mastercard Lighthouse MASSIV Program

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

COPENHAGEN, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trust Stamp (Nasdaq: IDAI), the Privacy-First Identity Company™ has been selected as one of the five companies to join the competitive Mastercard Lighthouse MASSIV 2025 program. The initiative supports impact-driven technology companies addressing critical global challenges through strategic partnerships, and Trust Stamp’s selection for the program underscores its innovative, privacy-first identity solutions and its potential to drive meaningful social impact on a global scale.

The Mastercard Lighthouse MASSIV program is a globally recognized platform that provides mentorship, networking opportunities, and strategic resources to companies that develop scalable and impactful technologies. By joining this program, Trust Stamp Denmark will collaborate with Mastercard and industry leaders to scale its impact and extend the reach of its privacy-first identity solutions. The company will focus on advancing financial inclusion, supporting humanitarian aid efforts, and enabling secure digital access for underserved communities. This partnership reinforces Trust Stamp Denmark’s commitment to ethical, privacy-focused identity solutions that drive financial inclusion and digital transformation on a global scale.

Trust Stamp delivers privacy-first, interoperable identity solutions that empower underserved communities to securely access essential services without compromising personal data. By irreversibly converting biometrics into tokens using proprietary technology, Trust Stamp enhances fraud prevention, operational efficiency, and digital inclusion while ensuring the highest standards of security and privacy.

“We are very excited to grow our engagement with Mastercard through the Lighthouse MASSIV program. Financial and societal inclusion is at the core of our Mission and by working with Mastercard we have the potential to improve the lives of tens of millions of people. By advocating for adaptable identity solutions and breaking vendor lock-in, we, together with partners in the MASSIV PROGRAM, can empower governments and organizations to implement sustainable and future-proof digital identity systems that prioritize universality, security, and privacy,” said Jonathan Patscheider, Vice President of Trust Stamp Denmark.

Trust Stamp’s AI-powered identity solutions are designed to provide security and trust in digital transactions while preserving user privacy. As part of the Mastercard Lighthouse MASSIV program, Trust Stamp Denmark will collaborate with Mastercard and industry leaders to drive innovation in identity technology, creating sustainable and scalable solutions that empower individuals and organizations worldwide.

For more information about Trust Stamp and its initiatives, visit www.truststamp.ai.

Inquiries
Trust Stamp Email: Shareholders@truststamp.ai

Jonathan Patscheider

Vice President, Trust Stamp Denmark

About Trust Stamp

Trust Stamp is a global provider of AI-powered services for use in multiple sectors including banking and finance, regulatory compliance, government, healthcare, real estate, communications, and humanitarian services. Its technology empowers organizations via advanced solutions that reduce fraud, tokenize and secure data, securely authenticate users while protecting personal privacy, reduce friction in digital transactions, and increase operational efficiency, enabling customers to accelerate secure financial inclusion and reach and serve a broader base of users worldwide.

With team members from twenty-two nationalities in eight countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Trust Stamp trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq: IDAI).

Safe Harbor Statement: Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Remarks

All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, the company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events-based information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

The MIL Network –

April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: Real Matters to Announce Second Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Results on April 30, 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Real Matters Inc. (“Real Matters”), a leading network management services provider for the mortgage lending and insurance industries, will announce its second quarter fiscal 2025 financial results via news release on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, before market open.

Conference Call and Webcast
A conference call to review the results will take place at 10:00 a.m. (ET) on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, hosted by Chief Executive Officer Brian Lang and Chief Financial Officer Rodrigo Pinto. An accompanying slide presentation will be posted to the Investor Relations section of our website shortly before the call.

Conference call dial-in:
- Participants can dial-in to the conference call; however, pre-registration is required. To register, visit: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb410bf1804714fc98c4a22b2351db181.
- Once registered, you will receive an email including dial-in details and a unique access code required to join the live call.
- Please ensure you have registered at least 10 minutes prior to the conference call start time.
To listen to the live webcast of the call:

The webcast will be archived and a transcript of the call will be available in the Investor Relations section of our website following the call.

About Real Matters
Real Matters is a leading network management services provider for the mortgage lending and insurance industries. Real Matters’ platform combines its proprietary technology and network management capabilities with tens of thousands of independent qualified field professionals to create an efficient marketplace for the provision of mortgage lending and insurance industry services. Our clients include top 100 mortgage lenders in the U.S. and some of the largest banks and insurance companies in Canada. We are a leading independent provider of residential real estate appraisals to the mortgage market and a leading independent provider of title and mortgage closing services in the U.S. Headquartered in Markham (ON), Real Matters has principal offices in Buffalo (NY) and Middletown (RI). Real Matters is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol REAL. For more information, visit www.realmatters.com.

For more information:
Lyne Beauregard
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
Real Matters
lbeauregard@realmatters.com
416.994.5930

The MIL Network –
April 3, 2025
MIL-OSI: Nextvestment Named One of 2025’s Most Innovative WealthTech Companies for Reinventing Mass-Affluent Financial Advice

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Singapore , April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nextvestment, an AI-native platform redefining how mass-affluent individuals receive financial advice, has been named one of the 2025 WealthTech100’s Most Innovative WealthTech Companies—a global list spotlighting firms that are transforming the wealth and asset management landscape.

Michael Davies, Founder and CEO of Nextvestment

Curated annually by FinTech Global, the WealthTech100 identifies standout companies shaping the future of client engagement, personalization, and regulatory innovation. Now in its seventh year, the list highlights 100 firms selected from over 1,200 global contenders and is referenced by senior leaders at banks, asset managers, and family offices worldwide.

Many investors today face a choice between low-cost, do-it-yourself platforms and premium advisory services built for the ultra-wealthy—leaving a growing segment underserved.

“It’s like being stuck between economy and first class on a flight,” said Michael Davies, CEO of Nextvestment. “These clients want more than basic service, but there’s nothing in between. That’s why we built Nextvestment—to create a personalized, ‘premium plus’ experience that’s both scalable and accessible.”

A Missing Middle in Wealth Advice

The wealth management industry is undergoing a generational shift as trillions of dollars move into the hands of younger, more digitally native investors. While high-net-worth clients receive bespoke service and entry-level investors turn to robo-advisors, individuals with $100k–$1M in investable assets often fall through the cracks.

Nextvestment addresses this gap with a platform that analyzes real-time data, integrates house views from financial institutions, and nudges users toward timely, relevant decisions—while enabling human advisors to focus on deeper, higher-value conversations.

Built to Fit, Not Overhaul

Designed to integrate with the existing infrastructure of financial institutions, Nextvestment plugs into CRMs, portfolio management systems, and compliance workflows—minimizing the lift required for deployment.

Platform Highlights:

• Plug-and-Play Integration with enterprise systems and tools

• Real-Time Copilot that identifies opportunities, risks, and client needs

• Advisor Mode that supports seamless handoffs and deepens client relationships

Early traction across institutions in Asia and Europe reflects rising demand for scalable, advisor-enhancing solutions that serve the mass-affluent market without compromising on personalization.

Looking Ahead

Nextvestment is enhancing its generative AI capabilities with a focus on long-term memory, behavioral context, and deeper personalization. These upgrades will allow the platform to better understand clients over time and deliver more relevant, timely insights.

“We’re making conversations feel more natural, more intuitive—and more valuable,” said Davies.

Upcoming features will include:

• Proactive recommendations aligned with client goals and timing

• Continuous learning from interactions to improve long-term advice

• Advisor tools that highlight key opportunities across entire client books

These enhancements aim to simplify decision-making for clients while helping financial institutions deliver more meaningful engagement at scale.

About Nextvestment

Founded in 2024 and headquartered in Singapore, Nextvestment builds AI-powered copilots for modern wealth management—empowering financial institutions to deliver personalized, proactive insights at scale. The platform combines cutting-edge technology with a human-first approach to improve advice delivery for the mass-affluent segment.

Learn more or request a demo at: www.nextvestment.com

About the WealthTech100

Curated by FinTech Global, the WealthTech100 is an annual list of the world’s most innovative technology providers transforming investment, advice, and wealth management. Now in its seventh edition, the list highlights solutions addressing the industry’s biggest challenges—from personalization and engagement to compliance and digital transformation.

More at: www.wealthtech100.com

Media Contact

Annabelle Lin

Chief Revenue Officer

annabelle@nextvestment.com

The MIL Network –

April 3, 2025

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Updates to this page

Why fraudsters choose this activity

Rethinking fraud prevention

Why fraudsters choose this activity

Rethinking fraud prevention