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Category: India

  • India’s gold demand to hit 5-year low as record prices dent jewellery sales, WGC says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s gold consumption in 2025 is set to fall to a five-year low, as record-high prices are denting jewellery purchases, overshadowing a slight boost in investment demand, the World Gold Council said on Thursday.

    Gold demand in the world’s second-biggest consumer of the precious metal could stand between 600 metric tons and 700 metric tons in 2025, the lowest since 2020, and down from last year’s 802.8 tons, Sachin Jain, CEO of WGC’s Indian operations, told Reuters.

    Demand could reach 700 tons if prices stabilise, but a 10%–15% price rise driven by geopolitical factors may pull it down to the lower end of the range, he said.

    Local gold prices MAUc1, which hit a record high of 101,078 rupees per 10 grams in June, have risen 28% so far in 2025, after a 21% gain in 2024.

    India’s gold consumption in the April-to-June quarter fell 10% from a year ago to 134.9 tons, as jewellery demand fell 17% while investment demand rose 7% in the quarter, the WGC said.

    Demand in the September quarter is expected to be lower than last year’s 248.3 tons, when New Delhi’s move to reduce import duties boosted purchases, Jain said.

    The precious metal has been outperforming other asset classes, drawing investors who favour both physical gold and gold exchange traded funds, he said.

    “Gold ETFs in India are at a very important cusp for growth, and as India becomes more digitised, they are gaining popularity and prominence,” he said.

    Gold ETFs in India saw inflows surge ten-fold month-on-month to 20.81 billion rupees ($237.5 million) in June, hitting a five-month high, data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India showed earlier this month.

    (Reuters)

    August 5, 2025
  • PM Modi, UAE President discuss bilateral ties, review progress across sectors in telephonic conversation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday discussed ways to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

    In a telephonic conversation, the two leaders reviewed the progress made in bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to further deepen engagement across key sectors. They underscored the growing collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, energy, digital infrastructure, and people-to-people ties.

    Prime Minister Modi and President Sheikh Mohamed also expressed satisfaction with the trajectory of the relationship and agreed to continue working closely to expand cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.

    During the call, Sheikh Mohamed congratulated PM Modi on becoming the second longest-serving Prime Minister in India’s history and conveyed his best wishes for continued success in his leadership.

    The Prime Minister thanked the UAE President for his warm wishes and the affection expressed for the people of India.

    India and the UAE have significantly expanded their bilateral relationship in recent years, with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2017, serving as a key framework for cooperation across multiple sectors.

    August 5, 2025
  • Death toll rises in China’s north following extreme rain, state media says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Extreme weather killed at least eight people in the city of Chengde just outside the Chinese capital Beijing, with 18 still unaccounted for, as heavy rainfall pounded the hilly region over the past week.

    The deaths occurred in villages within the Xinglong area of Chengde in Hebei province, state-run Xinhua reported late on Wednesday citing local authorities, without specifying when or how the people died.

    Work is still underway to locate those missing, Xinhua said.

    Set against mountainous terrain, Chengde was known as a resort town for Qing dynasty emperors to escape Beijing’s heat in the summer centuries ago.

    Extreme rains that began last Wednesday have lashed Beijing and surrounding regions, pouring a year’s worth of rain in less than a week in some areas and killing at least 30 in the outskirts of the capital. Twenty eight of those deaths occurred in hilly Miyun district.

    The deaths in Chengde occurred in villages which border Miyun and sit about 25 km (16 miles) away from the Miyun reservoir, the largest in China’s north.

    The reservoir saw record-breaking inflow and outflow of water, and overall water level and capacity during this round of rainfall which devastated nearby towns.

    At its peak on Sunday, up to 6,550 cubic metres of water – about 2.5 Olympic-sized pools – flooded into the reservoir every second, pushing its capacity to a record high of 3.63 billion cubic metres since it was built in 1960.

    The villages where eight have died sit on higher elevations in a valley, upstream of the Miyun reservoir.

    In another village to the north of the reservoir, a landslide on Monday killed eight people while four remained missing.

    Extreme rainfall and severe flooding, which meteorologists link to climate change, increasingly pose major challenges for Chinese policymakers, with officials partially attributing a slowdown in factory activities to heavy rains and flooding.

    (Reuters)

    August 5, 2025
  • London’s Heathrow hit by more flight cancellations after air traffic failure

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 16 flights to and from London’s Heathrow Airport were cancelled on Thursday, a day after technical problems with Britain’s air traffic control system caused widespread disruption across the country’s airports.

    National Air Traffic Services (NATS), which provides air traffic control services for planes flying in UK airspace and the eastern part of the North Atlantic, said on Wednesday its systems were fully operational with capacity returning to normal after it switched to a back-up system.

    The second outage in as many years at NATS also affected Gatwick Airport near London, Edinburgh Airport in Scotland and other locations, resulting in 122 cancellations as of 1830 GMT on Wednesday, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

    Heathrow’s website showed that at least 16 flights, including departures to Brussels and Toronto and arrivals from New York and Berlin, had been cancelled on Thursday.

    Heathrow, Britain’s largest and Europe’s busiest airport, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the latest cancellations.

    Ryanair Chief Operating Officer Neal McMahon called on NATS chief executive Martin Rolfe to resign, saying no lessons had been learnt since the August 2023 disruption caused by a malfunctioning in the automatic processing of flight plans.

    NATS, which on Wednesday apologised to those affected by the failure, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for a response to McMahon’s comments.

    Heathrow was also hit by a fire at a power sub-station in March which stranded thousands of passengers.

    (Reuters)

    August 5, 2025
  • At least 60 dead in north China following extreme rain, authorities say

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Extreme weather killed at least 60 people in northern China over the past week, with 31 deaths in an elderly care home in Beijing’s hilly Miyun district in one of the deadliest floods to have hit the Chinese capital in years.

    In Beijing, 44 people were killed and nine were missing as of midday Thursday, deputy mayor of Beijing, Xia Linmao, said at a press conference.

    Heavy rains began a week ago and peaked around Beijing and surrounding provinces on Monday, with Miyun experiencing rainfall of up to 573.5 mm (22.6 inches) – levels local media described as “extremely destructive.” The average annual rainfall in Beijing is around 600 mm.

    In the nearby province of Hebei, 16 people died as a result of the intense rainfall, authorities said.

    At least eight were killed in the city of Chengde just outside Beijing, with 18 unaccounted for.

    The deaths occurred in villages within the Xinglong area of Chengde in Hebei province, state-run Xinhua reported late on Wednesday citing local authorities, without specifying when or how the people died.

    The deaths in Chengde occurred in villages which border Beijing’s Miyun about 25 km (16 miles) from the Miyun reservoir, the largest in China’s north.

    The reservoir saw record-breaking overall water levels and capacity during the rains which devastated nearby towns.

    At its peak on Sunday, up to 6,550 cubic metres of water – about 2.5 Olympic-sized pools’ worth – flooded into the reservoir every second.

    In another Hebei village north of the reservoir, a landslide on Monday killed eight people, with four missing.

    Extreme rainfall and severe flooding, which meteorologists link to climate change, pose major challenges for Chinese policymakers, with officials partially attributing a slowdown in factory activity to such events.

    (Reuters)

    August 5, 2025
  • Flood threat in Rajasthan’s Dholpur as Chambal river swells; Army called in, Officials’ leave cancelled

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A flood threat looms over rural areas in Rajasthan’s Dholpur district after heavy rainfall in the Hadoti region and nearby areas led to the release of nearly 5 lakh cusecs of water into the Chambal River – from both Kota Barrage and later the Navnera Barrage.

    The Chambal’s water level surged to 141.10 metres by 10 PM on Wednesday, significantly breaching the danger mark of 131.79 metres, according to the Water Resources Department. The old Chambal bridge has submerged due to the rising water, prompting the district administration to request Army assistance. Troops are expected to reach Dholpur today.

    Floodwaters have begun entering villages in the Sarmathura and Rajakheda subdivisions, sharply increasing the risk to life and property. In response, the leave of all government officers and employees has been cancelled to ensure coordinated relief efforts.

    Despite the flooding of the old bridge, traffic on National Highway 44 remains unaffected, as vehicles are being rerouted via the new Chambal bridge.

    Dholpur SP Vikas Sangwan and District Collector Nidhi B.T. are closely monitoring the situation and conducting visits to the affected areas. Army personnel will assist in relief and rescue operations, particularly in flood-prone zones like Rajakheda.

    Meanwhile, Director of the Meteorological Center, Jaipur, Radheshyam Sharma, said that the low-pressure system, a remnant of the Bay of Bengal depression, is expected to weaken from August 2. However, due to the monsoon trough line currently passing through Bikaner and Sikar, heavy rainfall is still likely in parts of Rajasthan on Thursday. A reduction in rainfall activity is anticipated from August 1.

    Earlier on Wednesday, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma conducted a detailed inspection of rain-affected areas in Jaipur, spending over two-and-a-half hours reviewing the situation.

    He visited B-2 Bypass Road, Sanganer, Sumer Nagar, Surajmal Circle, Muhana Mandi, and Chauradia Petrol Pump, issuing immediate instructions to address waterlogging, damaged roads, potholes, and drainage issues.

    The Chief Minister also inspected the Dravyavati River near B-2 Bypass Road and directed officials to prune overgrown trees and repair damaged ferro drain covers.

    At the Sanganer camp office, he reviewed the status of waterlogged areas across the city. Later, at the Muhana Mandi intersection, he gave instructions for the construction of a traffic circle and urgent road repairs at Maharaja Surajmal Circle and Kesar Nagar intersection.

    (With inputs from IANS)

    August 5, 2025
  • Tata Motors announces euro 3.8 billion acquisition of Iveco Group

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tata Motors Limited has announced plans to acquire Iveco Group N.V., a leading European commercial vehicle and mobility company, through an all-cash voluntary tender offer valued at approximately €3.8 billion.

    The proposed acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and the successful separation of Iveco’s defence business. The deal aims to create a powerful global player in the commercial vehicle industry, combining complementary capabilities, a broader market presence, and a shared commitment to sustainable mobility.

    Under the terms of the deal, Tata Motors will acquire all issued common shares of Iveco Group—excluding its defence division—at €14.1 per share in cash. Completion of the transaction is conditional upon the separation of the defence business, which is expected to be finalised by March 31, 2026.

    The offer represents a 22–25% premium over Iveco’s average share price in the three months ending July 17, 2025. Factoring in the estimated €5.5–€6.0 per share extraordinary dividend from the defence division’s sale, the premium could increase to 34–41%.

    The merger will combine Tata Motors’ commercial vehicle division with Iveco’s operations, bringing together annual sales of approximately 540,000 units and revenues of €22 billion (INR 2.2 lakh crore). The combined revenue base will be spread across Europe (50%), India (35%), and the Americas (15%).

    “This is a logical next step following the demerger of Tata Motors’ Commercial Vehicle business,” said Tata Motors Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran. “It will allow the combined group to compete globally with two strategic home markets in India and Europe.”

    Olof Persson, CEO of Iveco Group, said the partnership with Tata Motors would strengthen industrial capabilities, accelerate innovation in zero-emission transport, and expand the company’s presence in key global markets.

    Tata Motors has secured full financing for the acquisition through a consortium led by Morgan Stanley and MUFG Bank. Clifford Chance, PwC, and Kearney are advising Tata Motors, while Goldman Sachs and law firms De Brauw and PedersoliGattai are advising Iveco Group.

    — ANI

    August 5, 2025
  • Centre constructs 16,207 km of highways, sanctions ₹69,342 crore for railway projects in Northeast

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Central Government has constructed 16,207 km of National Highways and sanctioned ₹69,342 crore for railway projects to bolster infrastructure and accelerate economic development in the Northeastern Region (NER), the Parliament was informed on Thursday.

    Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region Sukanta Majumdar told the Rajya Sabha that the Ministry of Railways has approved 12 railway projects – including 8 new lines and 4 doubling projects – spanning a total length of 777 km, either partially or fully within the NER. Of this, 278 km have already been commissioned, and ₹41,676 crore has been expended up to March 2025.

    Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), the government has sanctioned 17,637 road works covering 89,436 km and 2,398 bridges in the Northeast. Out of these, 16,469 road works (80,933 km) and 2,108 bridges have been completed, the Minister added.

    To enhance digital connectivity in remote and rural areas of the Northeast, several initiatives have been undertaken with support from the Digital Bharat Nidhi. As many as 6,355 Gram Panchayats have been made service-ready under the BharatNet project. In addition, 3,297 mobile towers have been commissioned in the region under various government-funded mobile connectivity schemes.

    The Ministry of Civil Aviation, through the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, has significantly improved regional air connectivity by operationalising 90 routes in the Northeast. These routes connect 12 airports and heliports across the region, aiming to make air travel more accessible and affordable for the masses.

    Further, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) is providing financial assistance to all eight Northeastern states for developmental projects related to infrastructure, connectivity, and communication, under five Central Sector Schemes.

    A key initiative in this regard is the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE). This 100% centrally funded scheme, launched with a total outlay of ₹6,600 crore, is scheduled to run from 2022–23 to 2025–26. The scheme focuses on funding infrastructure projects in line with PM GatiShakti, supporting social development, and promoting livelihood opportunities for youth and women, while addressing developmental gaps in critical sectors.

    The DoNER Ministry is also providing financial support to boost tourism development across the eight Northeastern states through its various Central Sector Schemes.

    (With inputs from IANS)

    August 5, 2025
  • Govt consistently increased budget allocation for science and research in last five years: Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The government has consistently increased the budget allocation for science and research, with the highest allocation made in FY 2025-26 over the last five years, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh informed Parliament on Thursday.

    In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Singh said that “more than ₹65,307 crore has been allocated to six scientific agencies for research in FY 2025-26.” In comparison, ₹41,581.96 crore was allocated for science and research in 2024-25, and ₹39,843 crore in 2023-24.

    In 2022-23, the government allocated ₹37,828 crore, while ₹37,823 crore was allocated in 2021-22.

    The six major scientific agencies/departments are the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research/Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR/CSIR), the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Department of Space (DoS), the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

    “DST received the highest allocation of ₹28,508.90 crore in FY 2025-26, followed by DoS with ₹13,416.20 crore,” Singh said. These agencies have received their highest allocations this year since FY 2021-22.

    Additionally, the Minister informed that the government has been implementing several fellowships offering direct benefits to young scientists and researchers.

    Some of the key schemes include the INSPIRE Fellowship, INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship, Women in Science and Engineering (WISE)-PhD, WISE-Post Doctoral Fellowship (PDF), and the Scheme for Young Scientists and Technologists (SYST).

    To provide high-level strategic direction for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the country, the government has established the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) through the ANRF Act of 2023, Singh added.

    Under the Act, special provisions have been made to encourage public sector enterprises as well as private sector entities to invest in ANRF-led initiatives.

    Recently, the government launched the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme with a financial outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over five years. This DST-led scheme aims to promote private sector participation in sunrise sectors, thereby driving growth and innovation.

    Singh also informed the House about the steps taken by the government to enhance private sector participation in research and development.

    Key efforts include incentivising private sector investment to increase their share in Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD), and creating avenues for collaborative science, technology, and innovation (STI) funding through portfolio-based mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and other innovative hybrid funding models, the Minister said.

    IANS

    August 5, 2025
  • IMD forecasts week-long downpour in Northeast; rainfall subsides in central India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over the Northeast and adjoining eastern India during the next seven days, with isolated extremely heavy showers expected in Assam and Meghalaya on August 2. In contrast, a significant reduction in rainfall is likely over eastern Rajasthan and western Madhya Pradesh starting August 1, while central and southern peninsular India are expected to witness subdued rainfall activity over the next six to seven days.

    According to the IMD, very heavy rainfall is expected in Rajasthan on July 31, and across Arunachal Pradesh from August 1 to 6. Similarly, heavy rainfall is anticipated in Assam and Meghalaya between July 31 and August 3, and again on August 6. Other regions likely to experience very heavy rainfall include sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim from August 2 to 4, and Bihar on August 2 and 3.

    In the past 24 hours (ending at 8:30 AM on July 31), heavy to very heavy rainfall (7–20 cm) was recorded at isolated places over eastern Rajasthan, western Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Heavy rainfall (7–11 cm) was also observed in parts of Haryana, Punjab, western Uttar Pradesh, western Rajasthan, West Bengal & Sikkim, Chhattisgarh, eastern Madhya Pradesh, Assam & Meghalaya, Odisha, and Bihar.

    For the Delhi-NCR region, the forecast indicates generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms through August 3.

    On Thursday, the city is likely to receive one or two spells of light rain, with a possibility of moderate rain at isolated spots. Maximum temperatures will range between 30 to 32°C, below normal by 2 to 4°C. Surface winds will blow from the southeast at 5–10 kmph in the morning and afternoon, shifting to the northeast by evening.

    On August 1, the capital will see very light to light rain with thunderstorms or lightning. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to range between 33 to 35°C and 23 to 25°C, respectively, both remaining below normal. Winds will shift from the northeast in the morning to southwest in the afternoon at 10–15 kmph, later coming from the southeast during the evening and night.

    Rainfall will continue on August 2 and 3, with cloudy skies and light precipitation accompanied by thunderstorms. Temperatures will hover between 34 to 36°C for the maximum and 24 to 26°C for the minimum, with the latter staying below normal. Winds are expected to remain between 10–20 kmph from varying directions, predominantly from the northwest and northeast.

    August 5, 2025
  • Cabinet clears ₹6,520 crore outlay for PM Kisan Sampada Yojana till FY26

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved a total outlay of ₹6,520 crore for the ongoing Central Sector Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), for the period of the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26). The approved amount includes an additional allocation of ₹1,920 crore to support new and existing projects under the scheme.

    Of the total outlay, ₹1,000 crore has been earmarked to set up 50 Multi-Product Food Irradiation Units under the component scheme Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure (ICCVAI) and 100 NABL-accredited Food Testing Laboratories under the Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure (FSQAI) component. These initiatives are in alignment with announcements made in the Union Budget.

    The remaining ₹920 crore will be used to sanction projects under various other components of PMKSY during the current Finance Commission cycle. Both ICCVAI and FSQAI are demand-driven schemes, with proposals to be invited through Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from eligible entities across the country. Projects will be selected following scrutiny based on the eligibility norms outlined in the scheme guidelines.

    According to the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, the 50 irradiation units are expected to create additional preservation capacity ranging from 20 to 30 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) per annum, depending on the types of food processed. These units will play a crucial role in extending the shelf life of agricultural produce, thereby reducing post-harvest losses.

    In parallel, the proposed 100 food testing labs in the private sector are aimed at developing advanced infrastructure for analysing food samples. The Ministry said these facilities would help strengthen food safety mechanisms and ensure the availability of safe, quality-compliant food products in the market.

    The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, launched in 2017, seeks to create modern infrastructure and efficient supply chains for the food processing sector.

    August 5, 2025
  • Markets end lower amid volatility; FMCG stocks lend support

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets closed marginally lower on Thursday after a volatile trading session marked by global uncertainties. Despite the imposition of tariffs by the United States on Indian imports, domestic indices managed to avert a sharp selloff, buoyed by buying interest in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) stocks.

    The benchmark Sensex closed at 81,185.58, shedding 296.28 points or 0.36 per cent. It had opened sharply lower at 80,695.50 following weak global cues but briefly rebounded in the afternoon session, touching an intraday high of 81,803.27 before slipping again in the final hour due to the expiry of monthly derivatives.

    The Nifty 50 settled at 24,768.35, down 86.70 points or 0.35 per cent.

    Market analysts said the indices reflected the underlying strength of the Indian economy, which continues to show resilience amid global headwinds. “Investors gravitated toward domestically oriented, non-discretionary players, especially FMCG, which offered attractive valuations, demand outlook and relative insulation from tariff risks,” analysts noted.

    Hindustan Unilever led the gains on the back of encouraging quarterly results, lifting the Nifty FMCG index by 791 points or 1.44 per cent. ITC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Eternal were also among the gainers.

    On the downside, major drag came from heavyweight stocks like Tata Steel, Sun Pharma, NTPC, Reliance, Asian Paints, L&T, and Titan, which contributed to the day’s losses. Most sectoral indices ended in the red. Nifty Auto declined by 89 points, Nifty IT slipped 180 points, and Nifty Bank was down by 188 points.

    The broader market reflected a similar sentiment with the Nifty Midcap 100 falling 0.93 per cent and Nifty Smallcap 100 down 1.05 per cent, indicating profit booking across segments.

    Despite the subdued closing, market experts remain cautiously optimistic, citing strong domestic fundamentals and the rotation of investor interest toward sectors less exposed to global trade tensions.

    -IANS

    August 5, 2025
  • India, Morocco sign agreement to boost judicial cooperation: Union Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and Morocco have signed a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote cooperation in judicial and legal spheres. The agreements aim to reinforce institutional linkages, facilitate legal modernization, and deepen mutual understanding between the two countries.

    Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, shared this information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. He said that the partnership would allow the legal communities of both nations to share knowledge, build institutional capacity, and contribute to the rule of law through structured legal engagement.

    The MLAT focuses on civil and commercial matters, enabling both countries to cooperate in the service of judicial documents, the taking of evidence through Letters of Request, and the execution of judicial judgments, decrees, settlements, and arbitral awards.

    Additionally, the MoU, signed between India’s Ministry of Law & Justice and Morocco’s Ministry of Justice, focuses on the exchange of legal expertise, training, and research. It seeks to promote capacity building by organising symposiums, joint courses, and legal training programmes.

    The MoU also encourages mutual visits and delegation exchanges to study each other’s legal systems and administrative frameworks.

    A notable feature of the MoU is technological collaboration through the development and exchange of national judicial information systems. This collaboration is expected to enhance justice delivery through digital tools and modern legal infrastructure.

    To ensure effective implementation, a joint coordination committee will be established to plan annual cooperation programmes, keeping financial viability in mind.

    —IANS

    August 5, 2025
  • Cabinet approves ₹11,169-crore rail multitracking projects across six states

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved four key railway multitracking projects worth approximately ₹11,169 crore. These projects, spanning six states and 13 districts, are expected to expand Indian Railways’ network by 574 kilometres and are scheduled for completion by 2028-29.

    The projects span 13 districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Jharkhand, and will add around 574 kilometres to the existing railway network. The approved corridors include the fourth line between Itarsi and Nagpur, doubling of the Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar)-Parbhani section, and the third and fourth lines on the Aluabari Road-New Jalpaiguri and Dangoaposi-Jaroli routes.

    These multitracking works are aligned with the government’s PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on multi-modal connectivity through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. The enhanced line capacity is expected to alleviate congestion, increase operational efficiency, and provide more reliable services for both freight and passenger trains.

    The proposed upgrades will benefit approximately 2,309 villages with a population of about 43.6 lakh and generate an estimated 2.29 crore person-days of direct employment during the construction phase.

    The corridors identified are vital freight routes for commodities such as coal, cement, clinker, gypsum, fly ash, containers, agricultural produce, and petroleum products. The capacity augmentation is projected to handle an additional 95.91 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight traffic.

    Beyond economic and logistical benefits, the projects are aligned with India’s climate goals. The railways’ increased capacity is estimated to reduce oil imports by 16 crore litres annually and lower carbon dioxide emissions by 515 crore kilograms – equivalent to planting around 20 crore trees.

    August 5, 2025
  • Cabinet approves ₹2,000 crore grant to NCDC to boost cooperative sector

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a move aimed at strengthening India’s cooperative sector, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday approved a Central Sector Scheme titled “Grant in Aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)” with a total outlay of ₹2,000 crore. The scheme will be implemented over a four-year period from 2025-26 to 2028-29, with an annual budgetary allocation of ₹500 crore.

    The approved grant will enable NCDC to raise ₹20,000 crore from the open market over the next four years. These funds will be utilized to provide loans to cooperatives for setting up new projects, expanding existing operations, upgrading technology, and meeting their working capital needs.

    According to the government, the initiative is expected to benefit approximately 2.9 crore members across 13,288 cooperative societies spanning various sectors, including dairy, livestock, fisheries, sugar, textiles, food processing, storage, cold storage, labour cooperatives, and women-led cooperatives.

    Implementation Strategy

    NCDC will serve as the nodal agency for the scheme. It will be responsible for the disbursement of loans, project monitoring, and recovery of funds. Loans will be extended either directly to eligible cooperatives or routed through respective state governments, as per NCDC’s funding guidelines. Direct funding will be allowed against admissible security or with a state government guarantee.

    The scheme aims to provide both long-term credit for infrastructure development and short-term loans for working capital, helping cooperatives run their businesses more efficiently and profitably.

    Economic and Employment Impact

    The Cabinet noted that the infusion of funds will facilitate the creation of income-generating assets and enhance liquidity in the cooperative sector. This, in turn, is expected to increase productivity, profitability, and job creation, especially in rural areas. The move is seen as a catalyst for socio-economic empowerment, particularly for women and marginalized communities.

    Furthermore, infrastructure development backed by these loans is likely to generate employment opportunities across various skill levels, thus contributing to India’s inclusive growth agenda.

    A Strategic Boost to Rural Economy

    India’s cooperative movement contributes significantly to the Indian economy, particularly by driving socio-economic advancement, strengthening rural infrastructure and generating employment in the rural sector. Spanning credit and banking, fertiliser distribution, sugar production, dairy, agricultural marketing, consumer retail, handlooms, handicrafts, fisheries, housing and more, cooperatives in India have their outreach across many production areas. Today, the country hosts more than 8.25 lakh registered cooperatives, enrolling over 29 crore members; remarkably, about 94 per cent of all farmers are linked to cooperatives in some form or the other.

    By offering targeted financial support, especially to under-resourced segments like dairy, poultry, fisheries, and women-led cooperatives, the scheme aims to enhance the sector’s capacity for modernization, diversification, and economic resilience.

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Launches Partnerships Ecosystem to Transform Research Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro announces the launch of the QuestionPro Partnerships Ecosystem, a comprehensive ecosystem designed to push the traditional boundaries of speed, intelligence, and depth of research norms. This ecosystem positions itself as the definitive platform for next-generation research capabilities.

    The future of research will be powered by three forces. Faster research turnaround, smarter research processes, and deeper insights.The goal of the QuestionPro Partnerships Ecosystem is to foster a new culture of collaboration to enable our clients to successfully embrace the future of research. Where the future of insights isn’t siloed but collaborative.

    “The question isn’t whether organizations need faster, smarter, deeper research capabilities – it’s whether any single organization can solve all these emerging challenges alone,” said Vivek Bhaskaran, CEO of QuestionPro. “The answer is no. That is at the core of why we built this curated ecosystem.”

    “The future of insights will be powered by ecosystems,” said Sumair Sayani, Global Lead AI Programs & Strategic Partnerships. “The QuestionPro Partner Ecosystem democratizes advanced research capabilities, allowing businesses of all sizes to access enterprise-grade tools without complexity.”

    The QuestionPro Partnerships Ecosystem is now available worldwide. Special offers are available for early adopters, with broader availability throughout Q3 2025. Offering ready-to-launch solutions for every research need, with AI and automation capabilities that reduce time organizing data while increasing time acting on insights.

    About QuestionPro
    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s, and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the partnerships. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at https://www.questionpro.com/us/

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Monthly Data on India’s International Trade in Services for the Month of June 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The value of exports and imports of services during June 2025 is given in the following table.

    International Trade in Services
    (US$ million)
    Month Receipts (Exports) Payments (Imports)
    April – 2025 32,843
    (8.8)
    16,909
    (0.9)
    May – 2025 32,452
    (9.6)
    16,694
    (-1.1)
    June – 2025 32,105
    (12.0)
    15,897
    (5.0)
    Note: Figures in parentheses are growth rates over the corresponding month of the previous year which have been revised on the basis of balance of payments statistics.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/817

    MIL OSI Economics –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Data on India’s Invisibles for Fourth Quarter (January-March) of 2024-25

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank today released data on India’s invisibles as per the IMF’s Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual (BPM6) format for January-March of 2024-25.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/816

    MIL OSI Economics –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lending and Deposit Rates of Scheduled Commercial Banks – July 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Data on lending and deposit rates of scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) (excluding regional rural banks and small finance banks) received during the month of July 2025 are set out in Tables 1 to 7.

    Highlights:

    Lending Rates:

    • The weighted average lending rate (WALR) on fresh rupee loans of SCBs declined to 8.62 per cent in June 2025 from 9.20 per cent in May 2025.

    • The WALR on outstanding rupee loans of SCBs dropped to 9.48 per cent in June 2025 from 9.69 per cent in May 2025.1

    • 1-Year median Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) of SCBs moderated to 8.75 per cent in July 2025 from 8.90 per cent in June 2025.

    Deposit Rates:

    • The weighted average domestic term deposit rate (WADTDR) on fresh rupee term deposits of SCBs stood at 5.75 per cent in June 2025 as compared to 6.11 per cent in May 2025.

    • The weighted average domestic term deposit rate (WADTDR) on outstanding rupee term deposits of SCBs was 6.99 per cent in June 2025 (7.07 per cent in May 2025).1

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/818


    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government backs Ford’s global transformation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK Government backs Ford’s global transformation

    UK Export Finance announces a new £1 billion export guarantee, supporting Ford UK’s transition to electric vehicle production.

    • Iconic car manufacturer Ford continues global transformation as government backs new loan  

    • Financing assists Ford’s operations in developing world-leading products, including cleaner engines and electric power units while supporting thousands of jobs 

    • Latest action in the government’s Plan for Change and in support for the UK’s automotive sector as part of the Industrial Strategy 

    UK Export Finance (UKEF) is providing a £1 billion export development guarantee to Ford UK, supporting the car giant’s long-term growth ambitions around the world. 

    Ford operates various sites across the country including the UK’s largest automotive research & development (R&D) centre based in Essex and directly employs more than 5,500 workers across the country.   

    The loan will help Ford continue its global transformation, engineering and manufacturing smart, connected and electrified vehicles for customers around the world.  

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    Ford has been the pride of Essex since 1911, over a century of innovation and industry. The R&D centre in Basildon employs thousands of people in well-paid, highly skilled jobs. 

    This £1 billion loan guarantee is a major boost for Britain’s auto sector. It will help develop world-leading products, open new export markets, and secure jobs. This is our Plan for Change in action – delivering growth and putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We’re proud of our historic auto sector, and the commitment that global companies like Ford have made to make cars and create jobs in the UK. 

    I’m delighted that UKEF is backing Ford in supporting the company’s ambitions for growth, helping to cement our position as a global leader for manufacturing and backing our Plan for Change. 

    This Government has taken significant action to back auto firms – including by securing landmark trade deals with the US and India to bring down tariffs for British car manufacturers and create new export opportunities, measures to lower electricity prices in our Industrial Strategy, and updating the ZEV mandate to support UK manufacturers and safeguard jobs of the future.

    In recent years, the company has invested heavily into electric vehicle development, including a £380 million transformation of its Halewood manufacturing plant from producing transmissions to electric motors for iconic vehicles like the Ford Transit van and Ford Puma. Ford has also invested £70 million in state-of-the-art testing and development labs at its R&D site in Essex.   

    This follows several significant announcements in recent months showing the government backing the UK’s automotive sector. This includes launching an Electric Car Grant to support the transition to zero emission vehicles and incentivise sustainable manufacturing, and the publication of the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan and Modern Industrial Strategy, which commits £2 billion capital and R&D funding to 2030, and an additional £500 million to extend the R&D support to 2035. This support is giving innovative manufacturers the confidence to pursue technological advancements needed in the automotive sector. 

    UKEF is guaranteeing 80 per cent (£800 million) of the £1 billion loan provided by Citi and a syndicate of lenders. Citi is the sole coordinator and agent on the loan to Ford. 

    This announcement forms part of the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth and raise living standards across the United Kingdom by supporting businesses to export and grow. 

    British car manufacturers now benefit from major tariff reductions when exporting to the US, thanks to the landmark trade deal secured with the US. The UK is the only country to have secured this deal with the US, which reduces car export tariffs from 27.5% to 10%, saving manufacturers hundreds of millions each year and protecting hundreds of thousands of jobs, backing the Plan for Change. 

    UKEF Chief Executive Tim Reid said:

    This is a great example of UKEF’s collaboration with the automotive industry, which is a key sector of the government’s Industrial Strategy. Our export development guarantee is a versatile product that has lasting impact on businesses. Boosting growth, securing key jobs, growing the UK’s export potential and doing so sustainably – that’s what UKEF does best. 

    Lisa Brankin, Chair, Ford Britain, said:

    Recent investments in the UK have proved crucial to our European operations and have expanded our UK export capability, on top of supporting Ford’s investment in an all-electric product line-for Europe. This new UKEF facility will play an important role in supporting our UK exporting footprint, especially amid the continued uncertainty in the trade landscape and the disconnect between electric vehicle targets and customer demand. 

    Richard Hodder, Global Head of Export and Agency Finance at Citi, said: 

    Citi is pleased to partner with Ford and UK Export Finance on this significant transaction. This third UKEF Guarantee loan under the EDG program demonstrates our dedication to supporting Ford’s global innovation and UK export operations. This transaction showcases both the cross-border expertise and local knowledge that Citi’s Services business provides clients in the UK, and around the world.

    This is the third EDG awarded by UKEF to Ford, taking total financing to almost £2.4 billion (£1.9 billion guaranteed by UKEF) since 2020: 

    • June 2022: £750 million UKEF EDG (UKEF guarantee of £600 million) supported phase two of Ford’s electric vehicle plans. The investment significantly expanding Ford’s electric power unit production line capability.  

    • June 2020: a £625 million UKEF EDG facility (UKEF guarantee on £500 million). This helped to finance Ford’s global vehicle research and development headquarters in Dunton in Essex, securing key of jobs and supporting the development of electric vehicle technologies. 

    This latest announcement follows the recent publication of UKEF’s annual report & accounts for 2024/25. 

    Over the last financial year, UKEF provided a record £14.5 billion in new financing, helping over 667 UK companies to export and grow and supported up to 70,000 jobs.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Email newsdesk@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

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    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Metaforms raises $9M to give market research agencies their own AI workflows

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Francisco, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The market research boom is creating an unexpected casualty: the agencies themselves. In an industry where clients expect faster turnarounds, competitive pricing, and diverse capabilities, agencies are turning down work – not for lack of interest, but because outdated operational systems keep them from meeting client expectations. Metaforms, a startup born from this bottleneck, is helping research teams scale without burning out. Today, the company announces a $9 million Series A to expand its AI infrastructure platform and accelerate adoption across the $130 billion global research industry.

    The round was led by Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia India), with participation from Nexus Venture Partners and Together Fund. It brings Metaforms’ total funding to just over $10 million and will be used to grow the team, expand into new workflows like report generation and voice-based research, and deepen integrations with tools like Decipher, SPSS, and Confirmit.

    Metaforms cofounders Arjun S and Akshat Tyagi.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with Akshat and Arjun as they reimagine what a market research agency could look like in an AI-first world. Metaforms is scaling rapidly, by enabling some of the largest research agencies globally to automate workflows such as survey programming and data processing through their suite of AI agents.” Shailendra Singh, MD, Peak XV

    When a global brand like a shoe company wants to make critical decisions about how to market it’s new pair of shoes in a geography it has never ventured into before. It engages a market research agency to figure out lifestyle habits and cultural perceptions of a population. For this the agency has to recruit a target population, design a research study, convert the survey questions into an online link, clean the data for fraud, do in-person interviews, combine all the data to finally make a presentation.

    Metaforms builds AI agents designed to work within research agencies’ existing workflows, automating the manual processes that limit capacity and erode margins. Instead of replacing research expertise, the platform acts as a force multiplier: turning questionnaires into survey code, flagging bad data before it breaks a project, coordinating panel vendors, and tracking quotas across complex multi-country studies. 

    Survey programming dashboard in Metaforms.

    For many agencies, this means the difference between turning away work and scaling up confidently.

    Metaforms has been incredibly successful thanks to their uniquely thoughtful approach to modernizing research operations—embedding seamlessly into the workflows, tools, and platforms that researchers and agencies already use. I’m excited to continue supporting the team as they build on that momentum with this Series A— Jonathan Tice, GTM Consultant [Prev: Chief Customer Officer, Forsta]

    Founded in 2022 by Akshat Tyagi and Arjun S, Metaforms was born out of a personal pain point. As early-stage founders, they struggled to access professional market research. The problem wasn’t demand – it was bandwidth. So Akshat and Arjun set out to build software that gave agencies a way to do more with what they already have.

    “Our goal is simple: help great research teams spend less time firefighting and more time doing the work that actually matters,” said Akshat Tyagi, co-founder and CEO of Metaforms. “When you automate the grunt work, you make high-quality research more accessible to more companies.”

    Since launching commercially just six months ago, Metaforms has signed four of the world’s top twenty research agencies, including Strat7, one of the largest market research agencies globally. The platform now processes over 1,000 surveys per month, and serves Fortune 500 companies. Every customer that started with a single AI agent has expanded to adopt additional ones, achieving a 100% expansion rate.

    Bidding management with Metaforms.

    “Metaforms is a breakout example of the India-to-global play in AI,” said Manav Garg, Co-founder and managing partner at Together Fund. “They’re not just automating tasks — they’re rebuilding research infrastructure for the modern era. With their early traction across global agencies, Akshat and Arjun are showing what’s possible when deep customer empathy meets technical ambition.”

    That accessibility is already changing the industry. By compressing turnaround times and reducing operational costs, Metaforms enables agencies to serve clients they would otherwise turn away, from early-stage startups testing their first ideas to global brands launching multi-country trackers.

    “Our partnership has delivered strong ROl, thanks to Metaforms’ exceptional service and prompt support” added Tabita Razaila Head of operations, Strat7

    “They’re solving a major pain point for the entire industry. That focus and ability to deeply understand customer needs and address that using genetic AI is the hallmark of Metaforms team. We are thrilled to back Akshat and Arjun in their journey of building a remarkable company!”, said Jishnu Bhattacharjee and Arjun Gandhi, Nexus Venture Partners.

    Looking ahead, Metaforms plans to triple its team and continue expanding the breadth of its agent capabilities. Voice research, automated report generation, and expanded language support are all on the roadmap. The long-term vision is to process over 100,000 surveys per year and make professional-grade research available to every business that needs it.

    “When research agencies grow, better business decisions get made,” added Akshat Tyagi. “We’re not here to replace the humans in the loop. We’re here to give them leverage.”

    Media images can be found here. 

    About Metaforms
    Metaforms is the AI platform that helps market research agencies operate smarter and win more business. Our AI Agents augment research teams’ work output across survey programming, data processing, bidding management, and voice research; enabling them to handle exponentially more projects while maintaining quality.

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Pacific tsunami: modern early warning systems prevent the catastrophic death tolls of the past

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ian Main, Professor of Seismology and Rock Physics, University of Edinburgh

    The earthquake in Russia’s Kamchatka peninsula on July 30 2025 may have been one of the most severe on record, with a magnitude of 8.8. But innovations in science and technology gave governments vital time to warn and evacuate their people from the resulting tsunami.

    Millions of people escaped to higher ground before the tsunami hit.

    The 2004 Boxing Day 9.3 magnitude earthquake and tsunami in Sumatra, which caused approximately 230,000 deaths, some as far away as Somalia on the other side of the Indian Ocean, shows how important these warnings are.

    Early warning systems were not in place for the Indian Ocean in time for the 2004 disaster. But there is now a system in place, with 27 countries participating in the group effort.

    The 2004 tsunami was particularly tragic because tsunami waves travel at a steady speed in the open ocean, about as fast as a jet plane. This means they can take several hours to reach shore across an ocean, with plenty of time for warning.

    An early warning system for the Pacific Ocean, based in Hawaii, was created in 1948 following a deadly tsunami two years before. On April 1 1946, the magnitude 8.6 Aleutian Islands earthquake in the northern Pacific Ocean generated a tsunami that devastated parts of Hawaii hours later, leading to 146 fatalities.

    The death toll was exacerbated by the leading wave being downwards. This happens in around 50% of tsunamis, and exposes the seashore in a similar way to when the tide goes out, but exposing a larger area than normal. People sometimes investigate out of curiosity, bringing them closer to the danger.

    The accuracy and response times of early tsunami warnings have significantly improved since 1948.

    How tsunamis happen

    To understand the work involved in protecting coastal communities, first you need to understand how tsunamis are generated.

    Tsunamis are caused by displacement of mass on the sea floor after an earthquake, landslide or volcanic eruption. This provides an energy source to set off a wave in the deep sea, not just near the surface like in the ocean waves we see whipped up by the wind and storms. Most are small. The Japanese word tsunami translates somewhat innocuously as “harbour wave”.

    Detailed global mapping of the sea floor, pioneered by US geologist Marie Tharpe between 1957 and 1978, helped establish the modern theory of plate tectonics. It also improved the physical models for how the tsunami will travel in the ocean.

    Wave height increases as it approaches the shore, and the topography of the sea floor can result in a complicated pattern of wave interference and concentration of the energy in stream-like patterns. The establishment of sea-floor observatories led to better data for the pressure at the sea floor (related to wave height) and satellite networks now directly monitor wave height globally using radar signals from space.

    One of the factors that has helped scientists predict the range of a tsunami includes the setting up of the worldwide standard station network of seismometers in 1963, which allowed better estimations of earthquake location and magnitude.

    These were superseded by the digital broadband global network of seismometers in 1978, which allowed more detail on the source to be calculated quickly. This includes a better estimate of earthquake size, the source rupture area and orientation in three dimensions.

    It also tells scientists about the slip, which controls the pattern of displacement on the sea floor. This data is used to forecast the time of landing, the amplitude of the wave on the shoreline, and its height in areas where the wave travels further inland.

    The Pacific Ocean warning system now has 46 countries contributing data. It also uses physical and statistical models for estimating tsunami height. The models developed as scientists learnt more about earthquake sources, mapped features on the sea floor and tested model forecasts against outcomes.

    Today’s technology

    The early warning systems we have today are due to a decades-long commitment to global research collaboration and open data. Scientists have also improved their forecast methods. Recently they started using trained AI algorithms which could improve the timeliness and accuracy.

    Pioneered by the US Geological Survey, rapid data sharing is now used routinely to estimate earthquake parameters and make them available to the public soon after the rupture stops. This can be within minutes for an initial estimate then updated over the next few hours as more data comes in.

    However, the forecast wave height is inherently uncertain, variable from place to place, and may turn out to be more or less than expected. Similarly, large earthquakes are rare, making it hard to estimate how likely they are on average, and therefore to design appropriate mitigation measures.

    The 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan destroyed or overtopped the eight-metre high protective sea walls that had been put in place based on such hazard estimates. There were over 19,000 fatalities. As a consequence, their height has been increased to 12-15 metres in some areas.

    Early warning systems also rely on rapid communication to the public, including mass alerts communicated by mobile phone, coordination by the relevant authorities across borders, clear advice, and advance evacuation plans and occasional alarm tests or drills. Although tsunami waves slow down to the speed of a car as they approach the shore, it is impossible to outrun one, so it is better to act quickly and calmly.

    The effectiveness of warnings also means accepting a degree of inconvenience in false alarms where the tsunami height is less than that forecast, because this is inevitable with the uncertainties involved. For good reason, authorities issuing alerts will err on the side of caution.

    To give an example, nuclear power plants on Japan’s eastern seaboard were shut down on July 30.

    So far it looks like the Pacific early warning system – combined with effective levels of preparedness and action by service providers and decision makers – has worked well in reducing the number of casualties that might have happened without it.

    There will always be a level of uncertainty we will have to live with. On balance, it is a small price to pay for avoiding a catastrophe.

    Ian Main is professor of Seismology and Rock Physics at the University of Edinburgh. He receives funding from UK Research and Innovation Research Council, a member of the UK Office for Nuclear Regulation Expert panel on external hazards, and acts as an independent reviewer for the Energy Industry-funded SeIsmic hazard and Ground Motion Assessment research program SIGMA3.

    – ref. Pacific tsunami: modern early warning systems prevent the catastrophic death tolls of the past – https://theconversation.com/pacific-tsunami-modern-early-warning-systems-prevent-the-catastrophic-death-tolls-of-the-past-262283

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Euronet Worldwide Reports Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results – Highlighted by 13% Operating Income Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Digital growth strategy accelerated with the announced acquisition of leading credit card issuing platform
    • Ren signs agreement with top tier United States bank
    • Money Transfer expands digital remittance through Google partnership
    • Money Transfer enters Japanese market with acquisition of Kyodai Remittance
    • Operating margin expansion of 112 basis points

    LEAWOOD, Kan., July 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Euronet (“Euronet” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: EEFT), a global leader in payments processing and cross-border transactions, announced today second quarter 2025 financial results.

    Euronet reports the following consolidated results for the second quarter 2025 compared with the same period of 2024:

    • Revenues of $1,074.3 million, a 9% increase from $986.2 million (6% increase on a constant currency1 basis).
    • Operating income of $158.6 million, an 18% increase from $134.3 million (13% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA2 of $206.2 million, a 16% increase  from $178.2 million (11% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Net income attributable to Euronet of $97.6 million, or $2.27 diluted earnings per share, compared with $83.1 million, or $1.73 diluted earnings per share.
    • Adjusted earnings per share3 of $2.56, a 14% increase from $2.25. 

    See the reconciliation of non-GAAP items in the attached financial schedules.   

    “I’m very pleased with the business’ constant currency operating profit growth of 13% and the margin expansion of 112 basis points—on its own, this is exciting.  But, I’m more excited about our accomplishments to further our digital strategy through the acquisition of a leading credit card issuing platform – CoreCard – and the signing of a Ren agreement with one of the top three banks in the United States. 

    The acquisition of CoreCard fits nicely with our Ren platform. As described in a separate press release, this is not just a credit issuing platform, it’s a platform serving leading brands in the US, processing at scale, tried and tested. This premier product gives us yet more opportunity to go after the $10 billion issuing market where the market growth rates are much stronger outside the United States, which aligns strongly with our global business where more than 75% of our revenues are from outside the United States.  Moreover, another exciting aspect of the issuing business is its margin opportunity, nearing 50 percent.  It’s these kinds of initiatives that have contributed to our 20-year double digit growth rate and will continue to drive future growth – focused on digital payments.  This acquisition is directly in line with our strategy to shift a stronger mix of our business toward the digital economy. 

    Not only did we advance our digital agenda with the credit issuing platform, we just signed an agreement with one of the top three banks in the United States for the deployment of our Ren ATM operating and switching product.  While we have had many successes with Ren outside the US, this is not just the first agreement in the US we’ve signed, but it is with super impressive top-tiered bank – a real testament to the value proposition of Ren”, said Michael J. Brown, Euronet’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

    Segment and Other Results

    The EFT Processing Segment reports the following results for the second quarter 2025 compared with the same period or date in 2024:

    • Revenues of $338.5 million, an 11% increase from $305.4 million (6% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $84.6million, a 6% increase from $79.9 million (1% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $110.6 million, a 5% increase from $105.0 million (no change on a constant currency basis).
    • Total of 57,326 installed ATMs as of June 30, 2025, a 5% increase from 54,736. We operated 56,760 active ATMs as of June 30, 2025, a 5% increase from 54,005 as of June 30, 2024.

    Constant currency revenue, operating income, and adjusted EBITDA growth in the second quarter 2025 was driven by market expansion, growth across most existing markets and the addition of access fees and an increase in interchange fees in certain markets. 

    The epay Segment reports the following results for the Q2 2025 compared with the same period or date in 2024:

    • Revenues of $280.1 million, a 7% increase from $260.9 million (5% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $31.1 million, a 19% increase from $26.2 million (17% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $32.8 million, a 17% increase from $28.0 million (15% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Transactions of 1,107 million, consistent with prior year.
    • POS terminals of approximately 721,000 as of June 30, 2025, a 3% increase from 703,000.
    • Retailer locations of approximately 354,000 as of June 30, 2025, a 4% increase from 340,000.

    Constant currency revenue growth was driven by continued payments and digital media growth. Operating income and adjusted EBITDA grew faster than revenue, driven by a shift in product mix and effective operating expense management. Transaction growth from payments and digital media was offset by a decrease in low margin mobile transactions in India.

    The Money Transfer Segment reports the following results for the Q2 2025 compared with the same period or date in 2024:

    • Revenues of $457.9 million, a 9% increase from $421.8 million (6% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $65.6 million, a 39% increase from $47.3 million (33% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating margin expansion of 296 basis points
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $71.6 million, a 33% increase from $54.0 million (28% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Total transactions of 46.1 million, a 4% increase from 44.3 million.
    • Total digital transactions of 5.8 million, a 29% increase from 4.5 million.
    • Network locations of approximately 631,000 as of June 30, 2025, an 8% increase from approximately 586,000.

    Constant currency revenue growth was primarily driven by growth in cross-border transactions, partially offset by a decrease in intra-US transactions. Direct-to-consumer digital transactions grew by 29%, reflecting continued consumer demand for digital products. Operating income and adjusted EBITDA growth outpaced revenue growth due to gross margin expansion and leverage of scale. Additionally, the Money Transfer segment continued to expand both its market footprint through the acquisition of a 60% interest in Kyodai Remittance as well as its industry leading global payments network to now reach 4.1 billion bank accounts, 3.2 billion wallet accounts and 631,000 payment locations.

    Corporate and Other reports $22.7 million of expense for the second quarter 2025 compared with $19.1 million for the second quarter 2024. The increase in corporate expenses is largely from the increase in long-term share-based compensation.

    Balance Sheet and Financial Position
    Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents on hand was $1,329.3 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $1,393.6 million as of March 31, 2025. Total indebtedness was $2,438.1 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $2,202.5 million as of March 31, 2025. Availability under the Company’s revolving credit facilities was approximately $884.2 million as of June 30, 2025. 

    The change in net cash is the result of cash generated from operations, working capital fluctuations and share repurchases of $2.3 million shares for $247 million during the second quarter.

    Outlook
    Taking into consideration recent trends in the business and the global economy, the Company anticipates its 2025 adjusted EPS will grow 12% to 16% year-over-year, consistent with its 10- and 20-year compounded annualized growth rates. This outlook does not include any changes that may develop in foreign exchange rates, interest rates or other unforeseen factors.

    Non-GAAP Measures
    In addition to the results presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company presents non-GAAP financial measures, such as constant currency financial measures, operating income, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted earnings per share. These measures should be used in addition to, and not a substitute for, revenues, operating income, net income and earnings per share computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP. We believe that these non-GAAP measures provide useful information to investors regarding the Company’s performance and overall results of operations. These non-GAAP measures are also an integral part of the Company’s internal reporting and performance assessment for executives and senior management. The non-GAAP measures used by the Company may not be comparable to similarly titled non-GAAP measures used by other companies. The attached schedules provide a full reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure.

    The Company does not provide a reconciliation of its forward-looking non-GAAP measures to GAAP due to the inherent difficulty in forecasting and quantifying certain amounts that are necessary for GAAP and the related GAAP and non-GAAP reconciliation, including adjustments that would be necessary for foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and other charges reflected in the Company’s reconciliation of historic numbers, the amount of which, based on historical experience, could be significant.  

    (1) Constant currency financial measures are computed as if foreign currency exchange rates did not change from the prior period. This information is provided to illustrate the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on the Company’s results when compared to the prior period.

    (2) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income excluding, to the extent incurred in the period, interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation, amortization, share-based compensation and other non-cash purchase accounting adjustments, non-operating or non-recurring items that are considered expenses or income under U.S. GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA represents a performance measure and is not intended to represent a liquidity measure.

    (3) Adjusted earnings per share is defined as diluted U.S. GAAP earnings per share excluding, to the extent incurred in the period, the tax-effected impacts of: a) foreign currency exchange gains or losses, b) share-based compensation, c) acquired intangible asset amortization, d) non-cash income tax expense, e) non-cash investment gain f) other non-operating or non-recurring items and g) dilutive shares relate to the Company’s convertible bonds. Adjusted earnings per share represent a performance measure and is not intended to represent a liquidity measure. 

    Conference Call and Slide Presentation
    Euronet Worldwide will host an analyst conference call on July 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss these results. The call may also include discussion of Company developments on the Company’s operations, forward-looking information, and other material information about business and financial matters. The conference call and accompanying slide show presentation will be accessible via webcast by following the link posted on http://ir.euronetworldwide.com.  Participants wanting to access the conference call by telephone should dial (800)715-9871 (USA) or (646)307-1963 (international).

    A webcast replay will be available beginning approximately one hour after the event at http://ir.euronet worldwide.com and will remain available for one year.

    About Euronet Worldwide, Inc.
    A global leader in payments processing and cross-border transactions, Euronet moves money in all the ways consumers and businesses depend upon. This includes money transfers, credit/debit processing, ATMs, point-of-sale services, branded payments, currency exchange and more. With products and services in more than 200 countries and territories provided through its own brand and branded business segments, Euronet and its financial technologies and networks make participation in the global economy easier, faster and more secure for everyone. Visit the company’s website at www.euronetworldwide.com.

    Starting in Central Europe in 1994, Euronet now supports an extensive global real-time digital and cash payments network that includes 57,326 installed ATMs, approximately 1.2 million EFT point-of-sale terminals and a growing portfolio of outsourced debit and credit card services which are under management in 69 countries; card software solutions; a prepaid processing network of approximately 721,000 point-of-sale terminals at approximately 354,000 retailer locations in 64 countries; and a global money transfer network of approximately 631,000 locations serving 200 countries and territories with digital connections to 4.1 billion bank accounts, 3.2 billion digital wallet accounts and 4.0 billion Visa debit cards through Visa Direct payments. Euronet serves clients from its corporate headquarters in Leawood, Kansas, USA, and 67 worldwide offices. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.euronetworldwide.com.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements and other forward-looking statements in this document by words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “can,” “could,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “predict,” “project,” “future,” “potential,” “intend,” “plan,” “assume,” “believe,” “forecast,” “look,” “build,” “focus,” “create,” “work,” “continue,” “target,” “poised,” “advance,” “drive,” “aim,” “forecast,” “approach,” “seek,” “schedule,” “position,” “pursue,” “progress,” “budget,” “outlook,” “trend,” “guidance,” “commit,” “on track,” “objective,” “goal,” “strategy,” “opportunity,” “ambitions,” “aspire” and similar expressions, and variations or negative of such terms or other variations thereof. Words and terms of similar substance used in connection with any discussion of future plans, actions, or events identify forward-looking statements. 

    Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, such statements regarding the transactions contemplated by the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement’), dated as of July 30, 2025, by and among CoreCard, Euronet and Genesis Merger Sub Inc. (the “Transaction”), including the expected timing of the closing of the Transaction; future financial and operating results; benefits and synergies of the Transaction; future opportunities for the combined company; the conversion of equity interests contemplated by the Merger Agreement; the issuance of common stock of Euronet contemplated by the Merger Agreement; the expected filing by Euronet with the SEC of the Registration Statement and the proxy statement/prospectus; the ability of the parties to complete the proposed Transaction considering the various closing conditions and any other statements about future expectations that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All such forward-looking statements are based upon current plans, estimates, expectations and ambitions that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, many of which are beyond the control of Euronet and CoreCard, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the expected timing and likelihood of completion of the Transaction, including the timing, receipt and terms and conditions of any required governmental and regulatory approvals of the Transaction; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the definitive agreement; the possibility that CoreCard’s shareholders may not approve the Transaction; the risk that the parties may not be able to satisfy the conditions to the Transaction in a timely manner or at all; risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the Transaction; the risk that any announcements relating to the Transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of Euronet’s common stock; the risk that the Transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the parties’ business relationships and business generally, including the ability of CoreCard or Euronet to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers and customers, and on their operating results and businesses generally; the risk of unforeseen or unknown liabilities; customer, shareholder, regulatory and other stakeholder approvals and support; the risk of potential litigation relating to the Transaction that could be instituted against CoreCard or its directors and/or officers; the risk associated with third party contracts containing material consent, anti-assignment, transfer or other provisions that may be related to the Transaction which are not waived or otherwise satisfactorily resolved; the risk of rating agency actions and Euronet’s ability to access short- and long-term debt markets on a timely and affordable basis; the risk of various events that could disrupt operations, including: conditions in world financial markets and general economic conditions; inflation; the war in Ukraine and the related economic sanctions; and military conflicts in the Middle East.

    These risks, as well as other risks related to the proposed Transaction, will be described in the Registration Statement that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed Transaction. While the list of factors presented here and the list of factors to be presented in the Registration Statement are considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Additional factors that may affect future results are contained in each company’s filings with the SEC, including each company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as it may be updated from time to time by quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, all of which are available at the SEC’s website http://www.sec.gov. Euronet regularly posts important information to the investor relations section of its website. Any forward-looking statements made in this release speak only as of the date of this release. Except as may be required by law, neither Euronet nor CoreCard intends to update these forward-looking statements and undertakes no duty to any person to provide any such update under any circumstances.

    Important Information for Investors and Stockholders
    In connection with the proposed transaction, Euronet plans to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”), which will include a proxy statement of CoreCard that also constitutes a prospectus of Euronet, and any other documents in connection with the transaction. After the Registration Statement has been declared effective by the SEC, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to the holders of common stock of CoreCard. INVESTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF CORECARD AND EURONET ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE TRANSACTION WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT EURONET, CORECARD, THE TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. The registration statement and proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by Euronet or CoreCard with the SEC, when filed, will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, investors and stockholders may obtain free copies of documents that are filed or will be filed with the SEC by Euronet, including the registration statement and the proxy statement/prospectus, on Euronet’s website at https://ir.euronetworldwide.com/for-investors, and may obtain free copies of documents that are filed or will be filed with the SEC by CoreCard, including the proxy statement/prospectus, on CoreCard’s website at https://investors.CoreCard.com/. The information included on, or accessible through, Euronet’s or CoreCard’s website is not incorporated by reference into this press release.

    No Offer or Solicitation
    This press release is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to appropriate registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Participants in the Solicitation
    Euronet and CoreCard and their respective directors, executive officers and other employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from CoreCard’s shareholders in connection with the proposed Transaction. A description of participants’ direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be included in the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed Transaction when it is filed with the SEC. Information regarding Euronet’s directors and executive officers is contained in the definitive proxy statement, dated April 4, 2025, for its 2025 annual meeting of stockholders, and in Euronet’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. Information regarding CoreCard’s directors and executive officers is contained in CoreCard’s definitive proxy statement, dated April 14, 2025, for its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, and CoreCard’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. Additional information regarding ownership of Euronet’s securities by its directors and executive officers, and of ownership of CoreCard’s securities by its directors and executive officers, is included in each such person’s SEC filings on Forms 3 and 4. These documents and the other SEC filings described in this paragraph may be obtained free of charge as described above under the heading “Important Information for Investors and Stockholders.”

     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
     Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
     (in millions)
      As of    
      June 30,   As of
      2025   December 31,
      (unaudited)   2024
    ASSETS          
    Current assets:          
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,329.3   $ 1,278.8
    ATM cash   937.4     643.8
    Restricted cash   40.3     9.2
    Settlement assets   1,547.1     1,522.7
    Trade accounts receivable, net   328.4     284.9
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   353.8     297.1
    Total current assets   4,536.3     4,036.5
               
    Property and equipment, net   365.0     329.7
    Right of use lease asset, net   152.5     132.1
    Goodwill and acquired intangible assets, net   1,160.4     1,048.1
    Other assets, net   340.7     288.1
    Total assets $ 6,554.9   $ 5,834.5
               
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY          
    Current liabilities:          
    Settlement obligations $ 1,547.1   $ 1,522.7
    Accounts payable and other current liabilities   898.3     842.3
    Current portion of operating lease obligations   55.0     48.3
    Short-term debt obligations   1,434.8     812.7
    Total current liabilities   3,935.2     3,226.0
               
    Debt obligations, net of current portion   1,002.3     1,134.4
    Operating lease obligations, net of current portion   100.8     87.4
    Capital lease obligations, net of current portion   1.0     1.4
    Deferred income taxes   64.4     71.8
    Other long-term liabilities   87.8     84.3
    Total liabilities   5,191.5     4,605.3
    Total equity   1,363.4     1,229.2
    Total liabilities and equity $ 6,554.9   $ 5,834.5
     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
     Consolidated Statements of Operations
     (unaudited – in millions, except share and per share data)
       Three Months Ended
       June 30,
      2025     2024  
    Revenues $ 1,074.3     $ 986.2  
               
    Operating expenses:          
    Direct operating costs, exclusive of depreciation   620.6       580.8  
    Salaries and benefits   173.5       158.0  
    Selling, general and administrative   87.8       79.4  
    Depreciation and amortization   33.8       33.7  
    Total operating expenses   915.7       851.9  
    Operating income   158.6       134.3  
               
    Other income (expense):          
    Interest income   6.2       5.9  
    Interest expense   (28.2 )     (20.1 )
    Foreign currency exchange loss, net   (5.7 )     1.5  
    Other income   0.4       0.8  
    Total other expense, net   (27.3 )     (11.9 )
    Income before income taxes   131.3       122.4  
               
    Income tax expense   (33.6 )     (39.2 )
    Net income   97.7       83.2  
    Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests   (0.1 )     (0.1 )
    Net income attributable to Euronet Worldwide, Inc. $ 97.6     $ 83.1  
    Add: Interest expense from assumed conversion of convertible notes, net of tax   0.1       1.0  
    Net income for diluted earnings per share calculation $ 97.7     $ 84.1  
    Earnings per share attributable to Euronet          
    Worldwide, Inc. stockholders – diluted $ 2.27     $ 1.73  
               
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   42,954,631       48,700,270  
     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Reconciliation of Net Income to Operating Income (Expense) to Operating Income (Expense) and Adjusted EBITDA
     (unaudited – in millions)

    .

      Three months ended June 30, 2025
      EFT
    Processing
    epay Money
    Transfer
    Corporate
    Services
    Consolidated
    Net income                         $ 97.7
    Add: Income tax expense                           33.6
    Add: Total other expense, net                           27.3
    Operating income (expense) $ 84.6   $ 31.1   $ 65.6   $ (22.7 )   $ 158.6
    Add: Depreciation and amortization   26.0     1.7     6.0     0.1       33.8
    Add: Share-based compensation   —     —     —     13.8       13.8
    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, share-based
    compensation (Adjusted EBITDA)
    $ 110.6   $ 32.8   $ 71.6   $ (8.8 )   $ 206.2

    .

      Three months ended June 30, 2024
      EFT
    Processing
    epay Money
    Transfer
    Corporate
    Services
    Consolidated
    Net income                         $ 83.2
    Add: Income tax expense                           39.2
    Add: Total other expense, net                           11.9
    Operating income (expense) $ 79.9   $ 26.2   $ 47.3   $ (19.1 )   $ 134.3
    Add: Depreciation and amortization   25.1     1.8     6.7     0.1       33.7
    Add: Share-based compensation   —     —     —     10.2       10.2
    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, share-based
    compensation (Adjusted EBITDA) (1)
    $ 105.0   $ 28.0   $ 54.0   $ (8.8 )   $ 178.2


    (1)
    Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure that should be considered in addition to, and not a substitute for, net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
     Reconciliation of Adjusted Earnings per Share
     (unaudited – in millions, except share and per share data)
     
      Three Months Ended
      June 30,
      2025     2024  
    Net income attributable to Euronet Worldwide, Inc. $ 97.6     $ 83.1  
    Foreign currency exchange loss (gain)   5.7       (1.5 )
    Intangible asset amortization (1)   4.7       6.5  
    Share-based compensation (2)   13.8       10.2  
    Income tax effect of above adjustments (3)   (13.7 )     4.3  
    Non-cash investment gain (4)   (0.4 )     —  
    Non-cash GAAP tax expense (5)   3.0       1.9  
    Adjusted earnings (6) $ 110.7     $ 104.5  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (6) $ 2.56     $ 2.25  
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (GAAP)   42,954,631       48,700,270  
    Effect of adjusted EPS dilution of convertible notes   (176,123 )     (2,781,818 )
    Effect of unrecognized share-based compensation on diluted shares
    outstanding
      406,912       420,305  
    Adjusted diluted weighted average shares outstanding   43,185,420       46,338,757  

    (1) Intangible asset amortization of $4.7 million and $6.5 million are included in depreciation and amortization expense of $33.8 million and $33.7 million for both the three months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, in the consolidated statements of operations.

    (2) Share-based compensation of $13.8 million and $10.2 million are included in salaries and benefits expense of $173.5 million and $158.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, respectively, in the consolidated statements of operations.

    (3) Adjustment is the aggregate U.S. GAAP income tax effect on the preceding adjustments determined by applying the applicable statutory U.S. federal, state and/or foreign income tax rates. 

    (4) Non-cash investment gain of $0.4 million is included in other income in the consolidated statement of operations.

    (5) Adjustment is the non-cash GAAP tax impact recognized on certain items such as the utilization of certain material net deferred tax assets and amortization of indefinite-lived intangible assets.

    (6) Adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per share are non-GAAP measures that should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, net income and earnings per share computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP. 

    The MIL Network –

    July 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank and SANRAL sign ZAR7 billion loan agreement for South Africa Roads Infrastructure

    Source: New Development Bank

    Johannesburg, South Africa – on July 22, 2025, The New Development Bank (NDB) and the South African National Roads Agency Soc Limited (SANRAL) have today signed a landmark loan agreement worth ZAR7 billion to finance the rehabilitation and expansion of key national road segments. This strategic partnership reflects a shared commitment to modernizing South Africa’s transport infrastructure, reducing logistics costs, and boosting economic growth.

    The loan agreement will fund critical upgrades including the widening of highways, rehabilitation of bridges, and improvement of intersections along major freight corridors. These infrastructure enhancements are expected to significantly reduce travel times, improve road safety, and facilitate smoother movement of goods and people across the country.

    To optimise financial efficiency, the loan is denominated in South African Rand (ZAR), which helps reduce debt financing charges by mitigating currency risk and aligning repayment obligations with local revenue streams.

    South Africa’s transport sector plays a vital role in the national economy, and efficient road networks are essential for supporting trade, tourism, and job creation. By investing in the modernization of its road infrastructure, SANRAL aims to lower transportation costs for the majority of road users in South Africa, enhance connectivity between urban and rural areas, and stimulate inclusive economic development.

    This financing aligns with the New Development Bank’s mission to support sustainable infrastructure projects that foster regional integration and economic resilience. As Mr. Monale Ratsoma, Chief Financial Officer, explained, “This loan agreement with SANRAL demonstrates the New Development Bank’s commitment to partnering with South Africa in building resilient and efficient infrastructure that drives economic transformation. We are proud to support projects that will improve the quality of life for millions of South Africans.”

    From SANRAL’s perspective, Reginald Demana, Chief Executive Officer, emphasised, “The investment from the New Development Bank is a vital step towards upgrading our national road network. It will enable us to deliver safer, more reliable roads that underpin economic growth and social development.

    The signing ceremony took place in Johannesburg at NDB’s Africa Regional Office and was attended by senior officials from both organisations, highlighting the strong cooperation between the New Development Bank and South African government agencies.
    Background Information

    New Development Bank

    NDB was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.

    For more information on NDB, please visit www.ndb.int

    South African National Roads Agency LTD

    The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) is an independent, statutory company. South Africa’s Ministry of Transport is the sole shareholder and owner of SANRAL. Its mandate focuses on building and maintaining roads to enhance connectivity and development in South Africa.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    July 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on July 30, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India


    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)

      Volume
    (One Leg)
    Weighted
    Average Rate
    Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,95,643.06 5.34 1.00-6.30
         I. Call Money 20,087.24 5.37 4.75-5.42
         II. Triparty Repo 3,97,447.20 5.33 5.25-5.63
         III. Market Repo 1,75,488.07 5.35 1.00-5.65
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,620.55 5.49 5.35-6.30
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 84.75 5.24 5.00-5.35
         II. Term Money@@ 372.50 – 5.10-5.75
         III. Triparty Repo 2,755.00 5.48 5.45-5.50
         IV. Market Repo 68.81 5.50 5.50-5.50
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Wed, 30/07/2025 1 Thu, 31/07/2025 1,408.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Wed, 30/07/2025 1 Thu, 31/07/2025 94,716.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -93,308.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Tue, 29/07/2025 3 Fri, 01/08/2025 46,058.00 5.49
      Fri, 25/07/2025 7 Fri, 01/08/2025 1,25,008.00 5.49
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       10,299.21  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,60,766.79  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,54,074.79  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks          
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 30, 2025 9,72,816.78  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending August 08, 2025 9,56,146.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 30, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on July 11, 2025 5,38,578.00  

    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).

    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.

    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.

    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.

    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.

    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/811

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    July 31, 2025
  • US President Trump confirms India-US trade talks continue despite 25 per cent tariff threat

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Donald Trump has said that India and the US were still negotiating a trade deal despite his threat to impose a 25 per cent tariff, and a final decision may be known by the end of the week.

    “We’re talking to India now, we’ll see what happens,” he said on Wednesday, hours after he had threatened the 25 per cent tariffs and the 100 per cent penalty for buyers of Russian energy he had proposed. He said that India, which he asserted has one of the highest tariffs in the world, was now “willing to cut it very substantially.”

    However, he was silent on the Russian penalty when asked by a reporter and instead spoke of the 10 per cent penalty he had proposed for BRICS members.

    Since he says negotiations are continuing, the morning threat appears to be a negotiating ploy and gives both countries wiggle room to reach an accord. He has also not issued a formal letter on the tariffs.

    India had replied defiantly to the threat, saying the government “will take all steps necessary to secure our national interest.” India indicated that agriculture was likely a sticking point in the negotiations.

    The statement said, “The government attaches the utmost importance to protecting and promoting the welfare of our farmers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises).” The US wants India to open its markets to US agriculture and dairy, which could impact its vast agriculture sector.

    Trump and his officials, like Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, had spoken optimistically that India would be among the first to make a deal, but it hasn’t materialised. India was among the first countries to start trade negotiations with Washington on tariffs, and Trump had repeatedly said that an agreement was imminent, most recently last week.

    The negotiations were making fantastic progress, India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said last week in a media interview in London. “I do hope we’ll be able to conclude a very consequential partnership,” he said.

    In its response, India’s Commerce Ministry said, “India and the US have been engaged in negotiations on concluding a fair, balanced and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement over the last few months.”

    “We remain committed to that objective,” it added. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi “a friend of mine,” as he usually prefaces differences on tariffs.

    He said, nonchalantly, “It doesn’t matter too much whether we have a deal or whether we charge them a certain tariff, but you’ll know at the end of this week.”

    He repeated his tirade about India’s high tariffs, saying that while the US buys a lot from India, the US doesn’t sell as much there because of the tariffs. India had the highest or one of the highest tariffs in the world, with levies going as high as 175 per cent, he said.

    When a reporter asked him about the penalty for buying Russian energy, he did not answer that and, instead, veered off into talking about BRICS and how it was “anti-United States.” “India is a member of that, if you can believe it,” he said.

    “It’s an attack on the dollar, and we’re not going to let anybody attack the dollar,” he said. So, when it comes to India, he said, “It’s partially BRICS, and it’s partially the trade.”

    In the Truth Social post, Trump had said India has “always bought a vast majority of their military equipment from Russia, and are Russia’s largest buyer of energy, along with China, at a time when everyone wants Russia to stop the killing in Ukraine.”

    “All things not good! India will therefore be paying a tariff of 25 per cent, plus a penalty for the above, starting on August first,” he wrote, capitalising parts of the post in his style. (IANS)

    July 31, 2025
  • Will take all necessary steps to safeguard national interest: India responds to Trump’s statement on bilateral trade

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Government of India has taken note of a recent statement by the US President concerning bilateral trade and is currently studying its implications.

    Over the past few months, India and the United States have been engaged in negotiations aimed at concluding a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement. The government has reiterated its commitment to achieving this objective.

    Emphasizing its priorities, the government said that it attaches the utmost importance to protecting and promoting the welfare of farmers, entrepreneurs, and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

    It further added that all necessary steps will be taken to secure the country’s national interest, as has been the case with other trade agreements, including the recently concluded Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement with the United Kingdom.

    July 31, 2025
  • Trump hits Brazil with tariffs, sanctions but key sectors excluded

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday slapped a 50% tariff on most Brazilian goods to fight what he has called a “witch hunt” against former President Jair Bolsonaro, but softened the blow by excluding sectors such as aircraft, energy and orange juice from heavier levies.

    Trump announced the tariffs, some of the steepest levied on any economy in the U.S. trade war, as his administration also unveiled sanctions on the Brazilian supreme court justice who has been overseeing Bolsonaro’s trial on charges of plotting a coup.

    “Alexandre de Moraes has taken it upon himself to be judge and jury in an unlawful witch hunt against U.S. and Brazilian citizens and companies,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement.

    Bessent said Moraes “is responsible for an oppressive campaign of censorship, arbitrary detentions that violate human rights, and politicized prosecutions — including against former President Jair Bolsonaro.”

    Last week, the Brazilian justice levied search warrants and restraining orders against Bolsonaro over allegations he courted Trump‘s interference in his criminal case, in which he is accused of plotting to stop President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from taking office in 2023.

    Trump‘s final tariff order and the sanctions followed weeks of sparring with Lula, who has likened the U.S. president, a close ideological ally of Bolsonaro’s, to an unwanted “emperor.”

    On Wednesday, Lula and his government closed ranks behind Moraes, calling the U.S. sanctions “unacceptable.”

    “The Brazilian government considers the use of political arguments to defend the trade measures announced by the U.S. government against Brazilian exports to be unjustifiable,” it said in a statement.

    Lula added that Brazil was willing to negotiate trade with the U.S., but that it would not give up on the tools it had at hand to defend itself, hinting that retaliation was possible.

    Still, Trump‘s tariff order threatened that if Brazil were to retaliate, the U.S. would also up the ante.

    DIPLOMACY AT WORK

    Despite Trump‘s effort to use the tariffs to alter the trajectory of a pivotal criminal trial, the range of exemptions came as a relief for many in Brasilia, who since Trump announced the tariff earlier this month had been urging protections for major exporters caught in the crossfire.

    “We’re not facing the worst-case scenario,” Brazilian Treasury Secretary Rogerio Ceron told reporters.

    The new tariffs will go into effect on August 6, not on Friday as Trump announced originally.

    Trump‘s executive order formalizing a 50% tariff excluded dozens of key Brazilian exports to the United States, including civil aircraft, pig iron, precious metals, wood pulp, energy and fertilizers.

    Planemaker Embraer EMBR3.SA, whose chief executive has met with officials in Washington and U.S. clients in recent days to plead its case for relief, said an initial review indicated that a 10% tariff imposed by Trump in April remains in place, with the exclusion applying to the additional 40%.

    The exceptions are likely a response to concerns from U.S. companies, rather than a step back from Trump‘s efforts to influence Brazilian politics, said Rafael Favetti, a partner at political consultancy Fatto Inteligencia Politica in Brasilia.

    “This also shows that Brazilian diplomacy did its work correctly by working to raise awareness among U.S. companies,” he said.

    Brazil‘s minister of foreign affairs, Mauro Vieira, said he met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday to express the nation’s willingness to discuss tariffs after negotiations stalled in June, though he stressed Bolsonaro’s legal troubles were not up for debate.

    It remains unclear what Brazilian authorities “are bringing to the negotiating table to, for instance, open the domestic market,” Goldman Sachs said in a note to clients.

    IMPACT SMALLER THAN EXPECTED

    The effective tariff rate on Brazilian shipments to the U.S. should be around 30.8%, lower than previously expected due to the exemptions, according to Goldman.

    Oil shipments to the U.S., which had been suspended, are set to restart after being spared, lobby group IBP said. Meanwhile, mining lobby Ibram said the exemptions covered 75% of mining exports.

    However, it was still too soon to celebrate, said former Brazilian trade secretary Welber Barral, estimating that Brazil exports some 3,000 different products to the United States.

    “There will be an impact,” Barral said.

    Trump‘s tariff exemptions did not shield two of Brazil‘s key exports to the U.S., beef and coffee.

    Meatpackers expect to log $1 billion in losses in the second half of the year on the new tariffs, lobby group Abiec, which represents beef producers including JBS JBS3.SA and Marfrig MRFG3.SA, said.

    Coffee exporters will also continue to push for exemptions, they said in a statement.

    The government said it was readying measures to protect Brazil‘s businesses and workers.

    If Brazil were to retaliate against Trump‘s measures, that “would generate a larger negative impact” on activity and inflation, Goldman said.

    “The political inclination may be to retaliate, but exporters and business associations have been urging the Brazilian administration to engage, negotiate and de-escalate.”

    (Reuters)

    July 31, 2025
  • Amarnath Yatra suspended due to heavy rain; no convoy to move from Jammu today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Amarnath Yatra has been suspended for the day due to heavy rainfall, with no pilgrim convoy allowed to move from Jammu to the base camps in Kashmir on Thursday, officials said.

    Citing adverse weather conditions along the Yatra routes, authorities halted the movement of pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu. “Due to heavy rains in the Yatra area, the movement of pilgrims from the base camps has been affected. Therefore, it has been decided that no convoy movement shall be allowed towards the base camps Baltal and Nunwan from Jammu on July 31,” said Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner of Jammu.

    So far, more than 3.93 lakh pilgrims have visited the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine during this year’s pilgrimage, which began on July 3 and is scheduled to conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    Officials have also confirmed that the Yatra will resume via the Baltal route only, starting Friday, August 1. The Pahalgam axis has been temporarily closed for urgent repair and maintenance following recent rainfall. “Due to the heavy rains, necessary maintenance work is being undertaken on the Pahalgam route. The Yatra shall continue only through the Baltal axis from August 1,” said Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri.

    This is the second consecutive day of disruption, as the Yatra from both Baltal and Chandanwari/Nunwan base camps was suspended on July 30 due to weather-related concerns.

    Meanwhile, preparations continue for the annual ‘Chhari Mubarak’ procession—the holy mace of Lord Shiva—which will commence from the Amareshwar Temple in Srinagar on August 4 and reach the cave shrine on the morning of August 9.

    Located at an altitude of 3,888 metres, the Amarnath cave shrine is known for the naturally formed ice stalagmite believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva.

    -IANS

    July 31, 2025
  • Sensex, Nifty open lower amid concerns over US tariffs effective August 1

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian benchmark indices opened lower on Thursday after US President Donald Trump announced a steep 25 per cent tariff on imports from India, triggering concerns among investors.

    At 9:27 a.m., the Sensex was down 487 points or 0.60 per cent at 80,994, while the Nifty declined 140 points or 0.57 per cent to trade at 24,717.

    Broader markets also witnessed selling pressure. The Nifty Midcap 100 index fell by 457 points or 0.79 per cent to 57,484, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 index was down 100 points or 0.55 per cent at 18,037.

    “From an investor’s perspective, it is important to understand that the 25 per cent tariff is likely to come down after negotiations, which are expected to begin in mid-August. The tariff imposed on India is significantly higher than the rates agreed upon in trade deals with other countries,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    He termed it a typical “Trumpian strategy” aimed at negotiating better deals from India in other areas, likely culminating in a final tariff rate of around 20 per cent or lower.

    “Nifty is unlikely to fall below the support level of 24,500. Investors can consider buying on dips, with a focus on domestic consumption themes. Sectors like private sector banking, telecom, capital goods, cement, hotels, and select auto stocks that performed well in Q1 remain attractive,” he added.

    Almost all sectoral indices turned red in morning trade, with auto, energy, pharma, PSU banks, financial services, metal, realty, and public sector enterprises (PSEs) among the top laggards.

    In the Sensex pack, M&M, Bharti Airtel, Reliance, Infosys, HCL Tech, Titan, SBI, TCS, ICICI Bank, Trent, L&T, HDFC Bank, and NTPC were among the top losers. On the other hand, Power Grid, Tata Steel, ITC, and HUL emerged as the top gainers.

    In terms of institutional activity, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their selling streak for the eighth straight session on July 30, offloading equities worth ₹850 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) extended their buying spree for the 18th consecutive session, purchasing equities worth ₹1,829 crore on the same day.

    -IANS

    July 31, 2025
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