Category: Internet

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 70

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL0

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 70
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    100 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Southern into east central Illinois
    Central and southwest Indiana
    Extreme northwest Kentucky
    Extreme southeast Missouri

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 100 PM until
    800 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Widespread damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 2 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A band of thunderstorms is expected to intensify this
    afternoon from Illinois into Indiana while spreading northeastward.
    Damaging winds of 60-70 mph will become the most common threat with
    bowing segments. Embedded circulations, and any supercells that
    form ahead of the line, will pose a tornado (possibly an isolated
    strong tornado) and large hail threat (1-2 inch diameter).

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 30 miles east northeast of Danville IL
    to 15 miles southeast of Carbondale IL. For a complete depiction of
    the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU0).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 23045.

    …Thompson

    SEL0

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 70
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    100 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Southern into east central Illinois
    Central and southwest Indiana
    Extreme northwest Kentucky
    Extreme southeast Missouri

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 100 PM until
    800 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Widespread damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 2 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…A band of thunderstorms is expected to intensify this
    afternoon from Illinois into Indiana while spreading northeastward.
    Damaging winds of 60-70 mph will become the most common threat with
    bowing segments. Embedded circulations, and any supercells that
    form ahead of the line, will pose a tornado (possibly an isolated
    strong tornado) and large hail threat (1-2 inch diameter).

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 30 miles east northeast of Danville IL
    to 15 miles southeast of Carbondale IL. For a complete depiction of
    the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU0).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 23045.

    …Thompson

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW0
    WW 70 TORNADO IL IN KY MO 301700Z – 310000Z
    AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    30ENE DNV/DANVILLE IL/ – 15SE MDH/CARBONDALE IL/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM E/W /12S BVT – 56E FAM/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23045.

    LAT…LON 40368574 37628778 37629034 40368840

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU0.

    Watch 70 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Mod (30%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (50%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. tech companies will be on display at world’s largest tech show

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Twenty-two B.C. companies and universities will promote the province’s unique technology products and services in Germany at Hannover Messe 2025, the world’s largest tradeshow for industrial and energy technologies.

    “As we expand our trade diversification globally, we’re proud to showcase B.C.’s solutions to the challenges of advancing AI, improving energy efficiency and the impacts of climate change worldwide,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “This is the largest number of B.C. companies that have chosen to travel to this event. Advancing our trade and investment opportunities on this global stage will open new markets for B.C.’s economy to grow and prosper.”

    B.C. companies in attendance represent key sectors, including energy transition and critical minerals, clean technology, information and communications technology, creating more opportunities for B.C. businesses to export and attract investment, driving sustainable and innovative growth. B.C. will host a number of activations, events and panels.

    “B.C.’s reputation as a reliable trading partner with innovative solutions, a highly skilled workforce, and strong environmental, social and governance credentials will be a focal point during Hannover Messe 2025,” said Rick Glumac, Minister of State for Trade. “The companies participating at this tradeshow are just a sample of the breadth of innovation and investment opportunities available in B.C.”

    Canada is the partner country for Hannover Messe 2025, taking place in Hannover, Germany, from Monday, March 31, 2025, until Friday, April 4, 2025. More than 250 exhibitors and 260 delegates from Canada will showcase their industrial technology solutions and share their expertise in six pavilions, highlighting Canada’s strengths in artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital solutions, quantum technologies, robotics, advanced materials and clean-energy technologies.

    “The spotlight will definitely be on Team Canada at Hannover this year,” said Jayson Myers, chief executive officer of Next Generation Manufacturing Canada, the organization leading Canada’s industrial presence at the fair. “And it couldn’t come at a better time. The Hannover fair attracts close to 200,000 buyers, suppliers and investors from more than 150 countries. There’s no better place to showcase the leading-edge industrial technologies that Canada has to offer the world.”

    B.C.’s deputy minister of jobs, economic development and innovation will lead the mainstage panel on Energy Transition – Innovation & the Bottom Line. This panel will showcase B.C.’s leadership in robotics, automation and advancing hydrogen technology, and will outline the important role governments play in leading and fostering innovation.

    In addition to the activities at Hannover Messe 2025, the deputy minister will have meetings with international investors and clients to strengthen B. C.’s economy in key sectors, particularly energy transition and critical minerals, clean technology, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

    Quick Facts:

    • Hannover Messe 2025 brings representatives together from more than 150 countries.
    • It offers the opportunity to discover new industrial and energy technologies and learn about the latest innovations and trends in advanced manufacturing.
    • Hannover Messe 2025 brings together decision-makers from government and global businesses, providing a platform to discuss industrial trends and transformations.
    • The week-long event typically attracts 6,000 exhibitors and more than 200,000 attendees.

    Learn More:

    For more information about trade and investment in B.C., visit: https://britishcolumbia.ca

    To read the Trade Diversification Strategy, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/international-investment-and-trade/trade-diversification-strategy

    For more information about the companies attending the Hannover Messe 2025 tradeshow, visit: https://www.britishcolumbia.ca/wp-content/uploads/Company-Directory_Hannover_Messe.pdf

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Mar 30, 2025 Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook Issued on Mar 30, 2025

    Updated: Sun Mar 30 09:02:03 UTC 2025

     .

    D4
    Wed, Apr 02, 2025 – Thu, Apr 03, 2025
    D7
    Sat, Apr 05, 2025 – Sun, Apr 06, 2025

    D5
    Thu, Apr 03, 2025 – Fri, Apr 04, 2025
    D8
    Sun, Apr 06, 2025 – Mon, Apr 07, 2025

    D6
    Fri, Apr 04, 2025 – Sat, Apr 05, 2025
    (All days are valid from 12 UTC – 12 UTC the following day)

    Note: A severe weather area depicted in the Day 4-8 period indicates 15%, 30% or higher probability for severe thunderstorms within 25 miles of any point.

    PREDICTABILITY TOO LOW is used to indicate severe storms may be possible based on some model scenarios. However, the location or occurrence of severe storms are in doubt due to: 1) large differences in the deterministic model solutions, 2) large spread in the ensemble guidance, and/or 3) minimal run-to-run continuity.

    POTENTIAL TOO LOW means the threat for a regional area of organized severe storms appears unlikely (i.e., less than 15%) for the forecast day.

     Forecast Discussion

    ZCZC SPCSWOD48 ALL
    ACUS48 KWNS 300859
    SPC AC 300859

    Day 4-8 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0359 AM CDT Sun Mar 30 2025

    Valid 021200Z – 071200Z

    …SEVERE WEATHER OUTBREAK POSSIBLE ON D4/WED…

    …DISCUSSION…
    Medium-range models appear to be in good agreement with overall
    evolution of the synoptic-scale pattern into the Day 7 (Saturday
    April 5) time period, when divergence in solutions increases.

    Earlier in the period however, model consistency lends fairly high
    confidence that a widespread/potentially substantial outbreak of
    severe weather will evolve Wednesday/Day 4, from Lower Michigan and
    the Ohio Valley, southwestward across the Middle and Lower
    Mississippi Valleys, and into eastern portions of Texas and
    Oklahoma. Convection will likely be ongoing or developing early in
    the day, over western portions of the risk area — from Wisconsin
    southwestward to Oklahoma/North Texas. As an upper low shifts
    northeastward across the northern Plains toward the upper
    Mississippi Valley through the day, and the cold front crosses
    Iowa/Missouri/eastern Oklahoma, steep lapse rates atop a
    moist/diurnally heating warm sector will support widespread
    convective development.

    With ascent along the front somewhat modest as stronger large-scale
    ascent focuses northward into the western Upper Great Lakes and into
    Ontario, storm mode may tend toward isolated storms, as opposed to
    more linear development. This, combined with flow that is forecast
    to weakly veer but dramatically strengthen with height, suggests a
    primarily supercell storm mode. In additional to very large hail
    (particularly with southward extent), widespread damaging winds and
    several tornadoes are expected, some possibly significant. Risk is
    expected to continue well into the evening and likely overnight,
    shifting slowly eastward across the Midwest and mid/lower
    Mississippi Valley through the end of the period.

    Day 5/Thursday, trailing portions of the cold front should become
    aligned east-northeast to west-southwest across the Ohio and mid
    Mississippi Valleys and into the southern Plains, as the upper
    system shifts quickly across eastern Canada. While weak short-wave
    ridging will evolve atop the surface frontal zone in the wake of the
    departing system, daytime heating of a very moist boundary layer
    along and south of the front combined with strong flow aloft will
    support reinvigorated convection through the afternoon and evening
    hours, along with attendant severe-weather risk.

    Day 6/Friday, the surface front should remain quasi-stationary, but
    short-wave ridging should increase as a cut-off low evolves across
    the West. As such, much of the Day 6 convection may occur to the
    cool side of the surface front, in the zone of warm
    advection/isentropic ascent. While some severe risk will likely
    evolve, mainly in the form of hail, uncertainty overall (given the
    ridging aloft) precludes inclusion of a Day 6 risk area.

    By the weekend, deviation in model solutions increases, due to
    uncertain evolution of the low/trough over the West. As such, no
    risk areas will be included.

    ..Goss.. 03/30/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS48 PTSD48 PRODUCT

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 286

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 0286
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0640 PM CDT Sat Mar 29 2025

    Areas affected…Oklahoma…Southeast Kansas

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch likely

    Valid 292340Z – 300215Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…80 percent

    SUMMARY…A severe threat, with a potential for large hail, severe
    wind gusts, and tornadoes, is expected to develop across parts of
    Oklahoma and southeast Kansas over the next couple of hours. Weather
    watch issuance will likely be needed.

    DISCUSSION…The latest surface analysis shows a low in far
    southwestern Oklahoma, with a cold front located in western and
    northern Oklahoma. Ahead of the front, a moist airmass is present
    with surface dewpoints in the 50s and lower 60s F. Over the last
    hour, low-level convergence has markedly increased along the front.
    In addition, a shortwave is analyzed by the RAP over the southern
    High Plains. As this feature approaches early this evening,
    large-scale ascent will increase. This, along with the increasing
    low-level convergence, will provide support for thunderstorm
    development along the front from western Oklahoma into south-central
    and southeastern Kansas. Convective initiation is likely between 00Z
    and 01Z, with coverage gradually expanding across the moist airmass
    in central Oklahoma. Within this corridor, RAP forecast soundings
    early this evening have MLCAPE near 2500 J/kg, 0-6 km shear around
    40 knots, and 700-500 mb lapse rates near 8 C/km. This will be
    favorable for supercells with large hail. The more intense
    supercells could produce hailstones greater than 2 inches in
    diameter, with the hail threat maximized from western Oklahoma into
    north-central Oklahoma. Organized storms will also likely have a
    wind-damage threat. As the supercells move eastward into a
    developing low-level jet later this evening, a tornado threat will
    also be likely.

    ..Broyles/Mosier.. 03/29/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…SGF…EAX…TSA…TOP…ICT…OUN…

    LAT…LON 36649837 35529932 34889954 34439942 34189886 34139824
    34469758 35989669 36429620 37079548 37509489 37889456
    38379470 38689534 38069679 37379764 36649837

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…100-130 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…65-80 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…1.50-2.50 IN

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 67

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL7

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 67
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    715 PM CDT Sat Mar 29 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Central and North Texas

    * Effective this Saturday night and Sunday morning from 715 PM
    until 200 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter possible
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorm coverage is expected to increase over the
    next few hours as a shortwave trough moves eastward into the region.
    Steep mid-level lapse rates will help support moderate to strong
    buoyancy in the presence of moderate deep-layer vertical shear.
    These environmental conditions could support severe thunderstorms
    capable of large to very large hail and strong wind gusts this
    evening.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
    statute miles east and west of a line from 50 miles south of
    Brownwood TX to 55 miles north of Dallas TX. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU7).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    24030.

    …Mosier

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW7
    WW 67 SEVERE TSTM TX 300015Z – 300700Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    50S BWD/BROWNWOOD TX/ – 55N DAL/DALLAS TX/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /53ENE JCT – 37SSE ADM/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24030.

    LAT…LON 31079996 33649789 33649581 31079794

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU7.

    Watch 67 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 2 inches

    Mod (40%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    Mod (60%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Taking Measures Against Misuse of Personal Data

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC) are regulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).  TRAI has issued Telecommunications Commercial Communications Consumers Preference Regulations, 2018 (TCCCPR-2018) which deals with UCC.

    Under the TCCCPR-2018 regulations a number of directions have been issued for the implementation of its provisions. These directions inter-alia have provisions for registering preferences for commercial communication where a telecom subscriber can opt to block all commercial communications or can selectively block commercial communications as per preference categories.

    Customers can register complaint against senders of UCC through Mobile App, sending SMS or  calling on a specific number 1909.

    The Government of India has taken major initiatives like enactment of Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, setting up of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre, releasing of National Cyber Security Policy 2013, appointing Chief Information Security Officer, thus ensuring security and privacy of personal information of users in India.

    The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011 under the IT Act prescribes reasonable security practices and procedures to protect sensitive personal data of users. 

    Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (“DPDP Act”) provides the legal framework for processing of personal data, notice to be issued to data principal, consent of the data principal including withdrawal of such consent, rights of the data principal, obligations of the data fiduciaries, penalties for non-compliance, etc.

    The DPDP Act provides legal framework for Data Fiduciaries to notify breaches and ensure effective observance of the provisions Act by implementing appropriate technical and organizational measures.

    Further, the DPDP Act establishes a robust framework of accountability mechanisms to ensure the lawful processing of digital personal data with Data Protection Board of India as an independent adjudicatory body empowered to investigate complaints, conduct inquiries, and impose penalties.

    Ministry of Home Affairs has also established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre to deal with cyber-crimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.

    Public awareness campaigns, such as Cyber Security Awareness Month and Safer Internet Day, are organized to educate citizens about online safety, secure online transactions and digital services.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in Rajya Sabha today.

    *******

    Dharmendra TewariNavin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2116343) Visitor Counter : 300

    Read this release in: Urdu

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Taking Measures to Protect Critical Infrastructure and Private Data Against Cyber Attacks

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Government of India is cognizant of the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks in the country. Government has taken several legal, technical, and administrative policy measures for addressing cyber security challenges in the country. The Government has also institutionalised a nationwide integrated and coordinated system to deal with cyber-attacks in the country which, inter alia, includes:

    i. National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC) under the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) to ensure coordination amongst different agencies.

    1. Under the provisions of section 70B of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is designated as the national agency for responding to cyber security incidents.
    2. National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC) implemented by the CERT-In serves as the control room to scan the cyberspace in the country and detect cyber security threats. NCCC facilitates coordination among different agencies by sharing with them the metadata from cyberspace for taking actions to mitigate cyber security threats.
    3. Cyber Swachhta Kendra (CSK) is a citizen-centric service provided by CERT-In, which extends the vision of Swachh Bharat to the Cyber Space. Cyber Swachhta Kendra is the Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre and helps to detect malicious programs and provides free tools to remove the same. It also provides cyber security tips and best practices for citizens and organisations.
    4. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has created Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) to deal with cybercrimes in a coordinated and effective manner.
    5. Under the provisions of section 70A of the IT Act, 2000, the Government has established National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) for protection of critical information infrastructure in the country.

    As per the information reported to and tracked by CERT-In, the total number of cyber security incidents in the last three years are given below:

    Year

    Total number of cyber security incidents

    2022

    13,91,457

    2023

    15,92,917

    2024

    20,41,360

    The policies of the Government are aimed at ensuring an Open, Safe and Trusted and Accountable Internet for its users. National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP) was published by the Government with the vision of building a secure and resilient cyberspace for citizens, businesses and Government and a mission to protect information and information infrastructure in cyberspace, build capabilities to prevent and respond to cyber threats, reduce vulnerabilities and minimize damage from cyber incidents through a combination of institutional structures, people, processes, technology and cooperation.

    Government has taken following steps for protecting critical infrastructure and private data against cyber threats, which, inter-alia, includes:

    1. NCIIPC provides threat intelligence, situational awareness, alerts & advisories and information on vulnerabilities to organisations having Critical Information Infrastructures (CIIs)/ Protected Systems (PSs) for taking preventive measures against cyber-attacks and cyber terrorism. It also provides all cyber security related advice to these organisations, whenever asked for. Further, it follows up with concerned organisations for compliance of the IT (Information Security Practices & Procedures for Protected Systems) Rules, 2018 to improve their cyber security posture. It also organises training/awareness sessions for employees of entities having CIIs/PSs.
    2. The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information), 2011 (“SPDI Rules”) made under section 43A of the IT Act has prescribed reasonable security practices and procedures to protect sensitive personal data of users.
    3. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (“IT Rules, 2021”) under the IT Act prescribes that the intermediary shall take all reasonable measures to secure its computer resource and information contained therein following the reasonable security practices and procedures as prescribed in the SPDI Rules.
    4. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA) provides for the processing of digital personal data in a manner that recognizes both the rights of the individuals to protect their personal data and processing of personal data of individuals for lawful purposes by the Data Fiduciaries.
    5. CERT-In issued Cyber Security Directions in April 2022 under sub-section (6) of section 70B of Information Technology Act, 2000 relating to information security practices, procedure, prevention, response and reporting of cyber incidents for Safe & Trusted Internet.
    6. CERT-In issued guidelines on information security practices for government entities in June 2023 covering domains such as data security, network security, identity and access management, application security, third-party outsourcing, hardening procedures, security monitoring, incident management and security auditing.
    7. CERT-In has issued an advisory to various Ministries in November 2023 outlining the measures to be taken for strengthening the cyber security by all entities that are processing the digital personal data or information including sensitive personal data or information.
    8. CERT-In operates an automated cyber threat intelligence exchange platform for proactively collecting, analysing and sharing tailored alerts with organisations across sectors for proactive threat mitigation actions by them.
    9. CERT-In provides leadership for the Computer Security Incident Response Team-Finance Sector (CSIRT-Fin) operations under its umbrella for responding to and containing and mitigating cyber security incidents reported from the financial sector.
    10. CERT-In has formulated a Cyber Crisis Management Plan for countering cyber attacks and cyber terrorism for implementation by all Ministries/ Departments of Central Government, State Governments and their organizations and critical sectors.
    11. Cyber security mock drills are conducted regularly to enable assessment of cyber security posture and preparedness of organisations and enhance resilience in Government and critical sectors. 109 such drills have so far been conducted by CERT-In where 1438 organizations from different States and sectors participated.
    12. CERT-In has empanelled 200 security auditing organisations to support and audit implementation of Information Security Best Practices.
    13. CERT-In conducts regular training programmes for network and system administrators and Chief Information Security Officers of government and critical sector organisations regarding securing information technology infrastructure and mitigating cyber-attacks. A total of 12,014 officials have been trained in 23 training programs in 2024.
    14. CERT-In regularly conducts various activities for awareness and citizen sensitization with respect to cyber-attacks and cyber frauds.
    15. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology conducts programmes to generate information security awareness. Awareness material in the form of handbooks, short videos, posters, brochures, cartoon stories for children, advisories, etc. on various aspects of cyber hygiene & cyber security including deepfakes are disseminated through portals such as www.staysafeonline.in,www.infosecawareness.in and www.csk.gov.in.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in Rajya Sabha today.

    *******

    Dharmendra TewariNavin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2116341) Visitor Counter : 358

    Read this release in: Tamil

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NIXI successfully concludes Universal Acceptance (UA) Day 2025, focused on connecting the unconnected and building a multilingual internet for Viksit Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    NIXI successfully concludes Universal Acceptance (UA) Day 2025, focused on connecting the unconnected and building a multilingual internet for Viksit Bharat

    Universal Acceptance is not just about technical standards, it’s about empowering every citizen, regardless of language or background, to fully participate in the digital economy: Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY

    Event explores socio-economic impact and benefits of Universal Acceptance (UA) on MSMEs and industries

    Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), organised a hybrid event on Universal Acceptance Day on 28th March 2025 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The event, themed “Connecting the Unconnected – Building a Multilingual Internet for Viksit Bharat,” aimed to accelerate the adoption of Universal Acceptance (UA) and create a more inclusive digital ecosystem in India. 

    To achieve a truly accessible internet, it is essential that all digital tools and platforms support the diverse range of domain names and email addresses currently in use, regardless of linguistic or structural variations. Universal Acceptance plays a crucial role in ensuring an inclusive digital environment. The event witnessed the presence of Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, and Chairman, NIXI, as the Chief Guest; among other Government officials and industry leaders globally.

    Importance of internet governance and resilience

    Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, highlighted that “In an increasingly digital-first world, it is essential that technology does not become a barrier, particularly in a diverse country like India. Universal Acceptance is not just about technical standards, it’s about empowering every citizen, regardless of language or background, to fully participate in the digital economy. We are committed to simplifying a democratising digital access, ensuring that the benefits of technology reach even those who are not digitally aware. Our efforts, including the promotion of Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) and language translation tools, aim to bridge the digital divide and create a safer, more inclusive online environment.”

    He further emphasized the importance of internet governance and resilience, highlighting India’s role in shaping a multi-stakeholder approach globally. “As India’s internet user base approaches a billion, we must ensure that our voice is heard in international forums. We are dedicated to building a robust and resilient digital infrastructure that protects our cultural identity and enables seamless communication within the country, even in challenging scenarios.”

    Empowering communities and fostering true digital inclusion

    Mr Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, highlighted the significance of UA Day, also stated, “Universal Acceptance is essential to ensure that everyone, regardless of their language, can fully participate in the digital world. By embracing linguistic diversity online, we are not just preserving languages—we are empowering communities and fostering true digital inclusion. A truly inclusive digital space respects and represents all voices.” 

    Unlocking the full potential of India’s digital economy

    Dr Devesh Tyagi, CEO NIXI, while speaking at the UA day 2025 event, stated, “NIXI is proud to have spearheaded this initiative. UA Day 2025 has provided a key platform for stakeholders to come together, share insights, and commit to action. Our focus remains on creating a truly inclusive internet, where language is no longer a barrier. We believe that a multilingual internet is essential for connecting the unconnected and unlocking the full potential of India’s digital economy.” 

    Promoting Universal Acceptance and digital inclusivity

    The event featured in-depth discussions exploring the comprehensive scope of UA. Sessions delved into the socio-economic impact of UA on MSMEs & industries in general, the benefits of operating a UA-compliant business, and the crucial role of a multilingual internet in shaping effective public policy. Participants also identified gaps in the adoption of native languages and suggested novel initiatives to address these challenges, helping to better understand the barriers faced by internet users. The panel also underscored the importance of UA within the Digital Public Infrastructure, especially through the utilisation of UA, the government can empower citizens by enabling seamless access to essential digital services in their native languages.

    The panel highlighted the landmark development by India in UA adoption such as “Bhashini Portal” & the multistakeholder approach pushed at international fora. The need of sealing up capacity building, competencies at the core systems of technology development standards etc to facilitate UA level interoperability was highlighted by various industry leaders and tech enthusiasts.

    The event also underscored India’s role in promoting UA, emphasising the importance of creating a digital environment where every Indian can fully utilise the internet in their preferred language.

    The event was well supported & attended by UNESCO and ICANN. Mr Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia; and Mr Samiran Gupta, VP, Stakeholder Engagement & MD, Asia Pacific, ICANN, Shri Jaco Du Toit, Chief of Section, Universal Access to Information and Digital Inclusion, UNESCO HQ, were among the key speakers & participants.

    About NIXI: 

    Established on 19th June 2003, the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) is a not-for-profit (Section 8) company under the aegis of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. It is tasked with increasing Internet penetration and adoption in India by facilitating various infrastructure aspects to enable the Internet ecosystem to be managed and used by the masses. The four services under NIXI include Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) for building Internet Exchange Points, the .IN Registry for establishing the .in domain digital identity, and IRINN for the adoption of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses. 

    For more information, please visit: [https://nixi.in/](https://nixi.in/)

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2116337) Visitor Counter : 258

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Myanmar quake: More than 1,600 reported killed, as UN aid operation supports rescue efforts

    Source: United Nations 2-b

    Humanitarian Aid

    Latest news reports indicate that over 1,600 have been killed in Myanmar with thousands injured following two powerful earthquakes on Friday which have left hundreds trapped under rubble.

    The earthquakes of 7.7 and 6.4 magnitude struck Myanmar in central Myanmar northwest of Sagaing. The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reported on Saturday that hospitals in the area are overwhelmed with extensive damage to health infrastructure.

    The areas affected are Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw, Northeastern Shan and Sagaing.

    Internet communications are down in the main city of Mandalay, with land and air routes heavily disrupted.

    Health partners are preparing to deploy mobile surgical and medical teams, as well as field hospitals to the affected areas, to deliver life and limb-saving medical interventions to earthquake victims.

    News reports indicate that hundreds of people are trapped under rubble in multiple collapsed buildings, including at least 50 construction workers in the Thai capital Bangkok who are so far unaccounted for.

    More than 90 people are reportedly trapped in the rubble of one apartment block in Mandalay.

    Myanmar has been mired in a brutal civil war since a severe military crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators by military authorities, who overthrew the government in a military coup in February 2021.

    The military has called on the international community to provide emergency assistance amid the widespread destruction and loss of life. Meanwhile, opposition forces are reporting that some airstrikes have continued following the quake, including one in the Sagaing region.

    UN aid response ramps up

    The World Health Organization (WHO is looking to move Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) into Myanmar amid reports of insufficient medical supplies, including trauma kits to treat injured people, blood bags for transfusion, anaesthetics, assisted devices, other essential medicines, and tents for health workers.

    Marcoluigui Corsi, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Myanmar, issued a statement on Saturday expressing his unwavering solidarity with the Burmese people “during this tragic time.”

    The UN and its partners are urgently mobilizing to support emergency response efforts and stand ready to assist all affected communities wherever they are,” he said.

    Myanmar had already been “reeling from an alarming humanitarian crisis, largely driven by persistent conflict and recurrent disasters. At this critical time, the people of Myanmar urgently need the steadfast support of the international community,” he added.

    Pre-positioned aid

    In an interview with UN News from Myanmar’s largest city, Yangon, Mr. Corsi said that around 20 million people have been impacted by the quake.

    He stressed that the UN and partner agencies have a “significant presence” in the disaster-affected areas around Mandalay and the capital Naypyidaw, and crucially, the immediate aid effort can draw stockpiles already in place.

    I would say that although the logistical challenges for the first few days continue, at least we will be able to deliver and assist.”

    The country is grappling with multiple crises, he stressed, with 19.9 million people in need of assistance even before the earthquake. Only five per cent of the 2025 humanitarian response plan has been funded.

    He reminded that the Burmese had endured major flooding around seven months ago, and a devastating cyclone in 2023, so “we see that the resilience of the people and the resilience of the communities, continue to be eroded.”

    He said that “at this critical time you know the people of Myanmar needs the support of the entire international community – now more than ever.”

    Children face ‘even greater hardship’

    Trevor Clark, the UN Children’s Fund UNICEF’s regional chief of emergency operations, warned that the devastating quake “has left children facing even greater hardship in an already dire crisis.

    “Homes and critical infrastructure are damaged, and urgent aid is needed. UNICEF is delivering lifesaving supplies but requires immediate support to scale up its response.

    He said UNICEF was sending lifesaving supplies including tents, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, recreational kits and health supplies: “We are ready to bring in even more, but we need the support of our partners.”

    Some $5 million has already been released by the head of OCHA from the Central Emergency Relief Fund and on Saturday UN procurement agency, UNOPS, announced that thanks to donors it was releasing $10 million to aid partners in the emergency response.

    More to come on this developing story…

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Security: South African Man Living in Jefferson County Charged with Distribution of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Marcell M. Meyer, age 43, and a citizen of South Africa residing in Sackets Harbor, New York was arraigned today in federal court on charges of distribution of child pornography announced United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    According to the criminal complaint, Meyer used an internet-based social networking application installed on his cellular telephone to distribute child pornography to other users of the platform, including some who identified as children. In one such instance, Meyer distributed child pornography to an undercover HSI agent who Meyer believed to be a 13-year-old female child.

    The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    If convicted of the charge in the complaint, Meyer faces a term of imprisonment of between 5 and 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release between 5 years and life.  Meyer would also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and would likely face immigration consequences as a result of his conviction. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. 

    The case was investigated by HSI Syracuse and HSI Portland, Maine with the assistance from the New York State Police and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle as a part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sanjay Virmani Named Special Agent in Charge of the San Francisco Field Office

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

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has named Sanjay Virmani as the special agent in charge of the San Francisco Field Office. He most recently served as the special agent in charge of the Washington Field Office over the Counterterrorism Division.

    Mr. Virmani joined the FBI as a special agent in 2003 and was assigned to the San Francisco Field Office where he worked cyber and counterterrorism matters. In 2007, he was promoted to supervisory special agent in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters.

    In 2010, he was selected as the supervisory special agent to lead the San Francisco Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in the Oakland Resident Agency. Mr. Virmani was then selected to serve as director of the INTERPOL Digital Crime Center at the INTERPOL Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore in 2013.

    In 2016, Mr. Virmani returned to FBI Headquarters as a unit chief, working cyberterrorism matters.

    In 2018, he was promoted to assistant section chief of the Internet Operations Section of the Counterterrorism Division, where he worked to foster partnerships within the U.S. intelligence community and with international partners. He returned to the San Francisco Field Office as a supervisory special agent, then was promoted to assistant special agent in charge over the Cyber Branch in 2018 as well.

    In 2021, Mr. Virmani returned to the Counterterrorism Division as section chief of the Strategic Partner Engagement Section, where he oversaw the FBI’s liaison efforts with the law enforcement community, U.S. interagency, and private sector partners on counterterrorism-related matters.

    In 2022, he served as the acting special agent in charge of the Tampa Field Office. That same year, he was promoted to deputy assistant director of the Counterterrorism Division. In 2024, he was selected as the special agent in charge of the Washington Field Office over the Counterterrorism Division.

    Mr. Virmani earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo and received a master’s degree in business administration from the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California.   

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oklahoma Man Sentenced to Serve 45 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma man was sentenced in a federal court in Midland, Texas, on March 27, 2025, to 540 months in prison for charges related to sexual exploitation of children.

    According to court documents, on Jan. 30, 2024, JONATHON CHASE RUSSELL, 36, of Elk City, posted in a messaging app 15 images that depicted two minor females engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The next day, Russell sent three of the images to an undercover federal investigator, stating that the two minors were three and 11 years old. Further investigation led FBI agents to identify Russell’s IP addresses and locate him at a hotel in Midland. On Feb. 8, 2024, agents executed a warrant on his hotel room, where they discovered pairs of children’s underwear and a green tactical backpack that contained sexual devices. Agents also discovered a smartphone, which had been hidden underneath a refrigerator and which forensic examination revealed contained a substantial collection of images depicting sexual abuse of minor children.  

    The Western District of Texas filed a three-count indictment on Feb. 28, 2024, charging Russell with possession of child pornography, distribution of child pornography, and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Russell was also indicted in the Western District of Oklahoma on April 3, 2024, for one count of production of visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. His Oklahoma case was transferred to Midland, and on Aug. 19, 2024, Russell pleaded guilty to the count charged in the Western District of Oklahoma indictment and to all three counts charged in the Western District of Texas via a superseding indictment.

    “This defendant’s abhorrent behavior has been put to an end thanks to cooperation between federal prosecutors and law enforcement across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “The lengthy sentence imposed is yet another example of the Department’s focus on protecting children and serving justice to those who seek to target the most vulnerable in our communities.”

    “The lengthy sentence imposed in this case reflects the immense damage this individual inflicted on multiple children, who will be plagued by these experiences for the rest of their lives,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “Along with our law enforcement partners and, when necessary, across districts, we will continue to hold accountable the predators who harm the lives of children through illicit sexual crimes.”

    “The significant sentence imposed on Jonathan Chase Russell sends a clear message that there are serious consequences for those individuals who exploit children. Russell will serve the next 45 years in federal prison for his incomprehensible acts,” said John Morales, FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge. “We remain committed in working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who victimize the most vulnerable members of our society, our children, from infants to toddlers to young children to teenagers, we will hunt you down and serve justice for these horrendous crimes.”

    The FBI El Paso and Oklahoma City field offices investigated the case with assistance from the Elk City Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz prosecuted the case for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Haywood prosecuted the case for the Western District of Texas. 

    This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter – Welcome to K-9 Badger

    Source: US State of Idaho

    (L-R) Attorney General Raúl Labrador, K-9 Badger, ICAC Investigator Lauren Lane

    Dear Friends,
    My personal philosophy is that the government, in general, should do a lot less.  But whatever tasks remain, it should do very well.  That’s certainly the case for our office’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, where our team investigates and prosecutes those accused of using the internet to exploit, extort and abuse children, including crimes of enticement and child pornography.
    Over the last two years, our ICAC Unit has exceeded every expectation and metric for performance that we’ve set.  Idaho’s ICAC continues to raise the bar and even serves as a nationwide model for other states to follow.  It delivers real results for the people of Idaho when it comes to protecting our children and keeping predators off the streets and behind bars.
    In support of our ongoing efforts to keep kids safe, I am pleased to introduce the newest team member of ICAC:  K-9 Badger.   Badger, a two-year-old English Labrador, is specifically trained to detect hidden electronic storage devices, like SD cards, flash drives, concealed cameras, hard drives, cell phones, and other technology used to store child sexual abuse material, or CSAM.  K-9s like Badger are invaluable on search warrants when suspects conceal devices containing child pornography.
    Some K-9s sniff for drugs or bombs and the chemical signatures unique to those items, picked up by the incredibly sensitive canine noses. The science is no different with Badger.  He is trained to detect a very specific chemical, triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), sprayed on all electronic circuit boards during the manufacturing process to dissipate heat. Badger is one of only 195 K-9s worldwide trained to detect TPPO, even in challenging environments, including underwater.  Badger is a potent weapon for our ICAC investigators.
    In addition to detecting electronic storage devices.  Badger is also dual certified as a therapy dog and will assist with relatives and victims during search warrants and throughout the legal process.  Badger will also accompany his handler during educational presentations throughout Idaho.
    Badger joins a dedicated team of ICAC professionals in my office, and a growing ICAC network of affiliated law enforcement agencies across Idaho, sharing resources and intelligence to investigate and prosecute these cases.
    I’m happy to have another Labrador on the team!
    Best regards,
    Not yet subscribed to the Labrador Letter?  Click HERE to get our weekly newsletter and updates.  Miss an issue?  Labrador Letters are archived on the Attorney General website.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Independent Bank Corporation Announces Date for Its First Quarter 2025 Earnings Release

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Independent Bank Corporation (NASDAQ: IBCP), the holding company of Independent Bank, a Michigan-based community bank, announced that it expects to issue its 2025 first quarter results on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at approximately 8:00 am ET. The release will be available on the Internet at IndependentBank.com within the “News” section of the “Investor Relations” area of the Company’s website.

    Brad Kessel, President and CEO, Gavin Mohr, CFO and Joel Rahn, EVP Commercial Banking will review the quarterly results in a conference call for investors and analysts beginning at 11:00 am ET on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

    To participate in the live conference call, please dial 1-833-470-1428 (Access Code # 706949). Also, the conference call will be accessible through an audio webcast with user-controlled slides via the following event site/URL: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/106805636.

    A playback of the call can be accessed by dialing 1-866-813-9403 (Access Code # 746507). The replay will be available through May 1, 2025.

    About Independent Bank Corporation

    Independent Bank Corporation (NASDAQ: IBCP) is a Michigan-based bank holding company with total assets of approximately $5.3 billion. Founded as First National Bank of Ionia in 1864, Independent Bank Corporation operates a branch network across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula through one state-chartered bank subsidiary. This subsidiary (Independent Bank) provides a full range of financial services, including commercial banking, mortgage lending, investments, insurance and title services. Independent Bank Corporation is committed to providing exceptional personal service and value to its customers, stockholders and the communities it serves.

    For more information, please visit our website at: IndependentBank.com.

    Contact: William B. Kessel, President and CEO, 616.447.3933
      Gavin A. Mohr, Chief Financial Officer, 616.447.3929

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 66

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL6

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 66
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1225 PM CDT Fri Mar 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western Louisiana
    Southeast and East Texas
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 1225 PM until
    700 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered thunderstorms will continue to intensify into
    the afternoon as a moist and destabilizing airmass becomes more
    favorable for supercell development with the stronger storms. A
    couple of tornadoes are possible with the stronger storms through
    the late afternoon and into the early evening before this activity
    diminishes.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 55 miles west northwest of Natchitoches
    LA to 10 miles east southeast of Port Arthur TX. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean
    storm motion vector 19025.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW6
    WW 66 TORNADO LA TX CW 281725Z – 290000Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    55WNW IER/NATCHITOCHES LA/ – 10ESE BPT/PORT ARTHUR TX/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /44S EIC – 42WSW LCH/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 19025.

    LAT…LON 32049294 29899286 29899487 32049499

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU6.

    Watch 66 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Low (10%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Elmore County Man Sent to Prison for Possession of Child Pornography and Computer-Generated Images of Child Sexual Abuse

    Source: US State of Idaho

    [BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador has announced that Terry Samuel Stoner, 64, was convicted of one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Child by Possession of Sexually Exploitative Material (Child Pornography) and one count of Visual Representation of the Sexual Abuse of Children (Computer-Generated Child Pornography). The Possession of Sexually Exploitative Material is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Visual Representation of the Sexual Abuse of Children is a new felony in Idaho having become law in 2024 and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison. Stoner was sentenced on March 24, 2025, by Elmore County District Judge Theodore Fleming.
    “Removing these offenders from our communities is a top priority,” said Attorney General Labrador.  “Our ICAC prosecutors and investigators work tirelessly to deliver justice for these tragically young victims of abuse and I’m grateful for the broad partnerships that have been built across the state to protect kids. I’m also pleased to see the application of Idaho’s new law that criminalizes computer-generated images of child sexual abuse.  As we saw in this case, and in many of our cases, computer-generated images of child sexual abuse often go hand in hand with the victimization of young children.”
    In approximately May 2024, the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) were being uploaded from an I.P. address associated with Stoner’s place of residence in Hammett, ID. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators searched Stoner’s home and devices, locating multiple files of CSAM. Many of the files found depicted minor females aged approximately 2 years old to 12 years old engaged in sex acts with adults. Two of the files were computer-generated images depicting the sexual abuse of a female child aged approximately 8 years old to 12 years old.
    Judge Fleming sentenced Stoner to a total of 15 years in prison, ordering he be eligible for parole after serving 2 years. Stoner was also ordered to pay court costs. Upon release, Stoner will have to register as a sex offender pursuant to Idaho law.
    Senior Investigator Greg Lindsay in the Idaho Attorney General’s ICAC Unit led the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Madison Allen.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Midland Felon Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIDLAND, Texas – A Midland man was sentenced in federal court to 360 months in prison for child pornography production and drug and firearm offenses.

    According to court documents, Job Jasso Jr., 27, led a Midland County Sheriff’s Office deputy on a high-speed chase following an attempted traffic stop on March 13, 2024. Jasso crashed the vehicle and fled on foot, leaving a 17-year-old female in the passenger seat. A search of her phone revealed multiple sexually explicit photos of Jasso and the minor female.

    On March 25, 2024, the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force and other partnered agencies executed an arrest warrant at a hotel where Jasso was staying. Inside the room, Jasso and the minor victim from the March 13 incident were naked and taken into custody. Two firearms were seized during the arrest. An executed search warrant also revealed additional firearms, along with firearm accessories and ammunition, drug paraphernalia, 63.2 grams of fentanyl pills, and other related items. Review of a recovered smartphone found approximately 44 images and two videos of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and child exploitative material (CEM) depicting the minor victim. A search warrant return for a cloud storage account also uncovered 12 videos of CSAM and CEM of the minor victim.

    Jasso had previously been convicted in the 142nd District Court in Midland for aggravated kidnapping and received a sentence of five years’ confinement.

    On Aug. 28, 2024, Jasso was indicted for one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime; and one count of possession of stolen firearms. A federal jury found him guilty of all four counts Nov. 6, 2024.

    A second indictment was filed Sept. 25, 2024, for two counts of production of child pornography. Jasso was also found guilty on both of those counts in a federal trial Dec. 10, 2024. U.S. District Judge David Counts sentenced Jasso to 360 months in prison for both child pornography charges, as well as a concurrent 300 months in prison for the other four counts. Judge Counts also ordered Jasso pay $55,000 in restitution.

    “Jasso has amassed a troubling criminal record over the years, carelessly placing others—including minors—in grave danger through his illicit actions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “The 30-year sentence that he will now serve in federal prison is a significant penalty that appropriately fits the multiple offenses for which he was found guilty by a jury.”

    “This sentence serves as a reminder to all predators. We will not allow crimes against children to go unpunished,” said John Morales, FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge. “While this significant sentence cannot repair the damage done, it is a warning to those who engage in this behavior: FBI and our law enforcement partners will be relentless in our pursuit of child predators.”

    The FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety, Odessa Police Department, and Midland County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Sloane prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga – Undirritun aðalmiðlarasamninga

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Lánasjóður sveitarfélaga ohf. hefur gengið frá samningum við aðalmiðlara í tengslum við útgáfu skuldabréfa Lánasjóðsins og viðskiptavakt á skuldabréfaflokkunum LSS150434, LSS151155 og LSS 39 0303. Markmiðið með samningunum er að styrkja aðgang Lánasjóðsins að lánsfé og efla verðmyndun á eftirmarkaði.

    Frá 1. apríl 2025 hafa fimm fjármálastofnanir heimild til að kalla sig: “Aðalmiðlara með skuldabréf Lánasjóðsins”. Þær eru: Arion banki hf, Íslandsbanki hf., Landsbankinn hf., Kvika banki hf. og Fossar Fjárfestingarbanki hf.

    Helstu atriði samningsins eru:

    • Aðalmiðlarar hafa einir aðgang að útboðum Lánasjóðs sveitarfélaga ohf.
    • Aðalmiðlari skuldbindur sig til að setja fram markaðsmyndandi tilboð í útboðum skuldabréfa lánasjóðsins að lágmarki 100 m.kr. að nafnverði samanlagt í þá flokka sem í boði eru í hverju útboði, að hámarki þó einu sinni í hverjum mánuði.
    • Aðalmiðlarar hafa einir aðgang að sérstökum verðbréfalánum sem Lánasjóðurinn veitir.
    • Aðalmiðlari er viðskiptavaki á eftirmarkaði fyrir þrjá skuldabréfaflokka Lánasjóðsins og setur fram kaup- og sölutilboð að lágmarki (nafnv.) sem hér segir:
      • LSS150434: 40 m.kr.
      • LSS151155: 20 m.kr.
      • LSS 39 0303: 40 m.kr.
    • Aðalmiðlari skuldbindur sig til þess að verðmunur kaup- og sölutilboða hans fari ekki yfir 1% fyrir LSS150434 og LSS 39 0303 en 1,25% fyrir LSS151155.
    • Aðalmiðlara er skylt að endurnýja tilboð sín innan 15 mínútna frá því að þeim hefur verið tekið. Ef aðalmiðlari á viðskipti á einum viðskiptadegi fyrir samtals 200 m.kr. að nafnvirði með þá flokka lánasjóðsins sem viðskiptavakt er með er honum heimilt að víkja út frá hámarksmun kaup- og sölutilboða.
    • Samningarnir gilda frá 1. apríl 2025 til 31. mars 2026.

    Nánari upplýsingar veitir Óttar Guðjónsson, framkvæmdastjóri, ottar@lanasjodur.is / s. 515 4949 

    Attachments

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oklahoma Man Sentenced to 45 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIDLAND, Texas – An Oklahoma man was sentenced in a federal court in Midland to 540 months in prison for charges related to sexual exploitation of children.

    According to court documents, on Jan. 30, 2024, Jonathon Chase Russell, 36, of Elk City, posted in a messaging app 15 images that depicted two minor females engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The next day, Russell sent three of the images to an undercover federal investigator, stating that the two minors were three and 11 years old. Further investigation led FBI agents to identify Russell’s IP addresses and locate him at a hotel in Midland. On Feb. 8, 2024, agents executed a warrant on his hotel room, where they discovered pairs of children’s underwear and a green tactical backpack that contained sexual devices. Agents also discovered a smartphone, which had been hidden underneath a refrigerator and which forensic examination revealed contained a substantial collection of images depicting sexual abuse of minor children. 

    The Western District of Texas filed a three-count indictment on Feb. 28, 2024, charging Russell with possession of child pornography, distribution of child pornography, and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Russell was also indicted in the Western District of Oklahoma on April 3, 2024, for one count of production of visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. His Oklahoma case was transferred to Midland, and on Aug. 19, 2024, Russell pleaded guilty to the count charged in the Western District of Oklahoma indictment and to all three counts charged in the Western District of Texas via a superseding indictment.

    “The lengthy sentence imposed in this case reflects the immense damage this individual inflicted on multiple children, who will be plagued by these experiences for the rest of their lives,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “Along with our law enforcement partners and, when necessary, across districts, we will continue to hold accountable the predators who harm the lives of children through illicit sexual crimes.”

    “This defendant’s abhorrent behavior has been put to an end thanks to cooperation between federal prosecutors and law enforcement across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “The lengthy sentence imposed is yet another example of the Department’s focus on protecting children and serving justice to those who seek to target the most vulnerable in our communities.”

    “The significant sentence imposed on Jonathan Chase Russell sends a clear message that there are serious consequences for those individuals who exploit children. Russell will serve the next 45 years in federal prison for his incomprehensible acts,” said John Morales, FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge. “We remain committed in working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who victimize the most vulnerable members of our society, our children, from infants to toddlers to young children to teenagers, we will hunt you down and serve justice for these horrendous crimes.”

    The FBI investigated the case with assistance of the Elk City Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Haywood prosecuted the case for the Western District of Texas. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ganz prosecuted the Western District of Oklahoma’s case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Universal City Man Will Spend 60 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN ANTONIO – A Universal City man was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 720 months in prison for three charges related to sexual exploitation of children.

    According to court documents, Christopher Lee Castano, 44, accessed and transferred child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to and from external devices using his employer’s computer system while at a facility in San Antonio. The employer contacted the FBI in August 2022, after having discovered that Castano possessed files with names associated with child pornography on four removable devices since January 2022. On Aug. 3, 2022, an employee observed the files as Castano connected the external devices to the employer’s computers.

    A federal search warrant led to the search of Castano’s work area and his devices, and an investigation revealed CSAM produced by Castano between 2015 and 2018 when the female child victim in the images was 11-14 years old. FBI personnel also located multiple CSAM images and videos depicting another minor female produced around 2016 when that victim was between the ages of five and 26 months old. A graphic CSAM video of Castano’s was produced using his cell phone on July 21, 2018, depicting the second child victim when she was just over two years old.

    Castano has remained in federal custody since his arrest on Aug. 10, 2022. He was indicted for 13-counts on Sept. 7, 2022 and pleaded guilty to three counts on Oct. 12, 2023.

    In addition to his 60-year prison sentence, Castano was also ordered to pay restitution to two child victims in the amount of $50,000 each and another $5,000 each to five additional victims who were identified through the investigation.

    “Unless he lives well into his hundreds, this child predator is rightfully going to serve what is essentially a life sentence for the heinous crimes he has committed against at least half a dozen children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “I thank Castano’s employer for reporting his actions to our partners at the FBI, who helped us achieve this just sentence. While this does not erase what the child victims endured, we hope that they find some solace in the fact that Castano is no longer a threat to anyone.”

    “Castano heinously abused some of the most vulnerable among us. This sentence properly reflects the seriousness of his crimes and will hopefully provide some semblance of justice for his victims. The FBI is committed to protecting our children and relentlessly pursuing those who would cause them harm,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp for the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “We want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their partnership and dedication to this important mission.”

    The FBI investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Thompson prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Four Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 03/28/2025

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 03/28/2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025077
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 1,480,000
    Placement period, in days 4
    Date of deposit 03/28/2025
    Refund date 01.04.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Fix
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 20.05
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds
    Minimum spread, % per annum
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 09:30 to 09:40
    Preliminary applications: from 09:30 to 09:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 09:35 to 09:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 09:40 to 09:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 09:40 to 10:00
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 10:00 to 10:50
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 10:00 to 10:50
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n
    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 03/28/2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025078
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 100,000
    Placement period, in days 182
    Date of deposit 03/28/2025
    Refund date 09/26/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Flotting
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds Ruonmds
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Special
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Closed
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:00 to 12:10
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:10 to 12:20
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:10 to 12:30
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 03/28/2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025079
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 500,000
    Placement period, in days 14
    Date of deposit 03/28/2025
    Refund date 04/11/2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Flotting
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds Ruonmds
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 16:00 to 16:10
    Preliminary applications: from 16:00 to 16:05
    Applications in competition mode: from 16:05 to 16:10
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 16:10 to 16:20
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 16:10 to 16:30
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 16:30 to 17:20
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 16:30 to 17:20
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a publication of the RUONIA rate value on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 03/28/2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025080
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 10,000
    Placement period, in days 4
    Date of deposit 03/28/2025
    Refund date 01.04.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Fix
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum 20.05
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds
    Minimum spread, % per annum
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 18:30 to 18:40
    Preliminary applications: from 18:30 to 18:35
    Applications in competition mode: from 18:35 to 18:40
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 18:40 to 18:50
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 18:40 to 18:50
    Submission of an offer to credit institutions to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 18:50 to 19:30
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 18:50 to 19:30
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

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

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

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Expands Institutional Lending Services to Support All Spot Trading Pairs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

     

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, announced a major upgrade to its Institutional Lending service, enabling institutional clients to borrow funds for trading across all spot trading pairs available on the platform. This strategic enhancement empowers institutional users with greater flexibility and capital efficiency as they explore diversified trading strategies.

    The Institutional Lending program offers customized loan packages for professional clients, allowing them to access large-scale liquidity with competitive interest rates. With the latest upgrade, borrowed assets can now be applied to over 800 listed spot tokens on Bitget, significantly expanding the scope of trading and hedging opportunities.

    “Institutions play a crucial role in enhancing the liquidity and stability of the crypto market. Expanding our reach among institutional traders is one of Bitget’s core strategies for 2025,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “To navigate the fast-paced nature of crypto, institutions need flexible, scalable, and efficient access to capital. By extending our lending support to all spot pairs, we’re removing operational barriers and empowering institutions to execute sophisticated strategies, hedge risks, and seize opportunities without limitations on asset coverage.”

    Bitget offers a seamless and secure institutional lending process. Clients can apply directly through Bitget’s institutional portal, where customized credit lines and terms are determined based on individual profiles and trading history. Currently, Bitget supports USDT as the lending currency, with over 50 types of collateral assets accepted, including BTC, ETH, and USDC. The maximum leverage available is 5x, with loan terms of up to 12 months. In the coming months, Bitget will also expand institutional lending support to include derivatives trading.

    This move follows Bitget’s broader commitment to serving institutional clients with world-class infrastructure. Earlier this year, the platform rolled out dedicated OTC services and upgraded custodial solutions in collaboration with licensed partners such as Cobo and Fireblocks, aiming to create a full-stack institutional offering.

    More details on Bitget’s Institutional Lending program, will be shared shortly.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

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

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3f9cc1c0-7a38-4b1c-a1c1-834b8c6a6921

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Announces Listing of Kinto (K) with Massive 12,800 K & 50,000 USDT Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to announce the upcoming listing of Kinto (K) on March 31, 2025. To celebrate, MEXC is launching exclusive events with a combined prize pool of 12,800 K & 50,000 USDT in bonuses, offering traders the opportunity to earn substantial rewards while engaging with the Kinto ecosystem.

    Kinto is a modular exchange (MEX) that combines the advantages of both centralized (CEX) and decentralized exchanges (DEX), offering users a secure, compliant, and seamless trading experience. Founded by a team of blockchain developers and financial experts, Kinto operates on a strong community governance model that enables users to actively shape the platform’s future.

    The K token ($K) serves as both the governance and utility token within the Kinto ecosystem, granting holders governance rights, staking opportunities, and rewards for participation.

    To celebrate the listing of Kinto (K), MEXC has launched a series of exciting events with low entry requirements and a simple participation process, ensuring that users with different needs can easily join and share generous rewards.

    Below are the key details of the events:

    MEXC has established itself as an industry leader by consistently providing users with early access to promising Web3 projects. In 2024, MEXC introduced 2,376 new tokens, with 1,716 of those being initial listings. According to the latest TokenInsight report, MEXC leads the industry with the highest number of spot listings, at 461, and the fastest listing speed. Additionally, the exchange consistently adds new tokens in bi-weekly cycles, showcasing its exceptional ability to capture market trends quickly.

    Looking ahead, MEXC will continue to enhance its platform by providing advantages such as low fees, deep liquidity, a wide selection of trending tokens, and daily airdrops, enabling traders to access high-potential projects early, receive generous rewards, and enjoy an optimal trading experience.

    For full event details and participation rules, visit here.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 34 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official WebsiteXTelegramHow to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Source

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    PR Manager
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MEXC. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bdd074d0-6d90-42f8-a153-79bda20526ff

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Initiative for boosting sustainable development via digital sci-tech released at Zhongguancun Forum

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

    Initiative for boosting sustainable development via digital sci-tech released at Zhongguancun Forum

    BEIJING, March 28 — Participants at a parallel forum of the 2025 Zhongguancun Forum in Beijing unveiled an initiative on Thursday, calling for global collaboration to leverage digital science and technology to accelerate sustainable development and address global challenges.

    Nearly 200 representatives from international organizations, as well as domestic and foreign scholars, attended the International Forum on Sciences for Sustainable Development, which is one of the activities of UNESCO’s “International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-2033).”

    The Beijing Initiative on Digital Science and Technology for Sustainable Development released at the forum outlines key objectives, including promoting innovative applications of digital sci-tech in sustainable development, and expanding the use of big data, artificial intelligence, space technology and the Internet of Things to address challenges — such as biodiversity conservation, climate change, disaster risk reduction and poverty alleviation.

    The initiative emphasizes the development of digital tools to optimize energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and enhance natural resource management capabilities.

    The initiative also proposes building global platforms for sharing digital resources and technologies, strengthening the role of digital tools in policy formulation, and promoting public engagement and education concerning sustainability through digital means.

    A highlight of the initiative is the proposal to launch international big-science programs on digital sustainable development — aiming to unite global research institutions, governments and private sectors to establish collaborative platforms for cross-border technology R&D, data sharing and standard-setting. These programs will prioritize technology transfer and capacity-building, particularly for developing nations, to ensure equitable and inclusive global cooperation.

    Guo Huadong, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and director-general of the International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals, said that digital technologies and open data are pivotal to solving sustainability challenges.

    Highlighting data-sharing achievements, Guo noted that China launched SDGSAT-1, the world’s first satellite dedicated to serving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, on Nov. 5, 2021. Since its launch, the satellite has captured over 420,000 data scenes — which were freely shared worldwide.

    According to Guo, China had met the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 52 percent of its environmental indicators by 2022 — well ahead of schedule. Beijing, China’s capital, ranks first nationwide in terms of environmental SDG indicators, with average PM2.5 concentration showing an annual average reduction rate of 7.56 percent from 2015 to 2023, according to satellite observations.

    Scientists from 104 countries have utilized the data supplied by SDGSAT-1 to inform research efforts and in policy making. Applications span urban planning, environmental monitoring, agricultural monitoring and disaster response. Notable projects enabled by this satellite include the development of sustainability data products for BRICS nations, the conducting of SDG assessments for African countries, and analysis of light pollution on the Iberian Peninsula.

    “In the future, a satellite constellation is expected to be built to serve as a sharper ‘eye in space’ for global sustainable development,” Guo added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Coalition has promised $400m for youth mental health. Young people told us what they need

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bridianne O’Dea, Little Heroes Professor of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Flinders University

    Ground Picture/Shutterstock

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has promised a Coalition government would spend an extra A$400 million on youth mental health services.

    This is in addition to raising the number of subsidised psychology sessions from ten to 20, which had been previously announced.

    While extra funding for youth mental health is welcome, it’s important to target this in ways that will make a real difference to young people.

    In our recent research, we asked young people about their experiences of waiting for mental health support, how they coped in the meantime, and what would really make a difference while they waited.

    Rates of mental illness rising

    An estimated one in seven Australian children and adolescents had a mental illness in the past 12 months. Rates of mental illness have also increased over time, particularly among younger generations.

    The COVID pandemic led to a rapid rise in the number of children and young people seeing their GP for mental health problems. Visits for depression rose by 61% and eating disorders by 56% compared with before the pandemic.

    The number of visits to the emergency department in New South Wales for self-harm, or plans or thoughts about suicide, have also increased since COVID.

    The annual Mission Australia Survey reveals young Australians see mental health as one of their biggest challenges, with thousands calling for more support.

    But there are long waits for care

    Despite the greater demand for mental health treatment in Australia, there is very little information on how long young people wait to access it.

    The Australian Psychological Society reported that during the pandemic, 88% of psychologists increased their wait times and one in five were not taking on new clients. This meant about half of people waited more than three months to begin psychological treatment. But this is for clients of all ages.

    There is also little information on how young people experience the wait for treatment.

    We asked young people about the wait for care

    We recently published research on the wait times for mental health treatment for Australian teens.

    We asked 375 young people aged 13–17 about the mental health care they have tried to access for their anxiety and depression and how long they waited to start treatment. We also asked them about their mental health while they waited, what helped them cope, and the types of support they received.

    We found that on average, teens were waiting more than three months for their first session of treatment. Most teens waited to access psychologists and psychiatrists after a GP referral.

    While their wait times varied, nearly all teens felt they waited “too long”.

    Longer wait times were linked to poorer mental health, with more than 90% of teens reporting high distress while they waited. Many of the teens felt their feelings of worry and sadness had worsened and they had used risky and unhealthy ways to cope, such as spending more time alone, sleeping more, self-harming, and using alcohol and other drugs.

    Most teens did not receive any support from their health-care providers during the wait time, despite wanting it.

    One female 17-year-old had waited six months for treatment and told us:

    It felt like I was hanging over a cliff and was just told to hold on.

    Teens also felt their parents would benefit from greater support during the wait time. But we need more research to better understand how to help families.

    Together, these findings show we desperately need to address wait times for young people’s mental health treatment.

    Teens know the support they need

    If teens are to wait for mental health treatment, they told us they need support while they do so.

    Young people wanted more regular contact and “check-ins” from their service providers, someone to talk to during the wait, as well as more useful information on positive ways to cope.

    Most teens in our study used digital mental health tools – such as mental health websites, online mental health checks, mobile apps, online chat services and forums – while they waited.

    We’re developing digital mental health tools, in consultation with young people and GPs, to support doctors to care for their teen patients when treatment isn’t available right away. We’re testing the system of short digital mental health programs, supportive text messages and peer support in NSW this year.

    But not all teens we surveyed found digital mental health tools helpful. So we need to offer teens a range of supports – from their family, their GP, and from their referred service provider – to help them cope while they wait for treatment.

    What can governments do?

    We must carefully consider when, where and how mental health funds are invested. If governments wish to see more young people treated for their mental health problems, then we need to look at how our health-care system will cope with the growing demand.

    We also need national, transparent benchmarks for how long young Australians wait for mental health treatment. Only some health services in Australia have this. Other countries, such as the United Kingdom, have something similar to minimise the health risks of young people waiting too long for care.

    Ultimately, though, we need to prevent mental health issues from starting in the first place. That would reduce the need for treatment, the very type young Australians are waiting too long for.


    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Bridianne O’Dea is supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Investigator Fellowship (1197249) and a MRFF Millions Minds Mental Health Grant (2035416). Bridianne O’Dea received funding from the Buxton Family Foundation, Australian Unity, the Frontiers Technology Clinical Academic Group Industry Connection Seed Funding Scheme and the UNSW Medicine, Neuroscience, Mental Health and Addiction Theme and SPHERE Clinical Academic Group Collaborative Research Funding to conduct this research. Bridianne O’Dea is a member of the Australian Society for Mental Health Research and the International Society for Research on Internet Interventions. Bridianne O’Dea’s current work has received pro bono support from Deloitte Digital Australia.

    ref. The Coalition has promised $400m for youth mental health. Young people told us what they need – https://theconversation.com/the-coalition-has-promised-400m-for-youth-mental-health-young-people-told-us-what-they-need-253328

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Joyce Introduces Legislation to Protect Our Nation’s Communications Systems from Foreign Influence

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Joyce (PA-13)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) and Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3), have introduced the Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act, to combat the influence of foreign-made technology in our nation’s high-speed internet system. 

    “As we continue to expand connectivity for Americans in rural communities, we also need to ensure that our national security is protected,” said Rep. John Joyce, M.D.“Fighting to protect our communications systems from malign influences, like the Chinese Communist Party, must be at the forefront of our policy making. I am proud to lead this legislation that takes a common sense step towards securing our internet infrastructure and cutting our reliance on Chinese companies.”

    “Our bipartisan legislation is a step toward strengthening America’s information and communications technology (ICT) supply chains to ensure that our economy is not reliant on untrusted vendors,” said Rep. Susie Lee. “Businesses of all sizes, as well as education and healthcare industries, rely heavily on ICT, so it’s critical that America remains competitive in the sector.”

    Background:

    • The Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act authorizes a study by the U.S. Department of Commerce to investigate whether technologies from Chinese companies, like Huawei and ZTE, are part of our telecommunications network.
    • This legislation also requires the Department of Commerce to provide an update to Congress on the resources necessary to fully source our broadband infrastructure domestically or from our allies.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: YXT.com Reports Full Year 2024 Unaudited Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUZHOU, China, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YXT.com Group Holding Limited (NASDAQ: YXT) (“YXT.com” or the “Company”), a provider of AI-enabled enterprise productivity solutions, today announced its unaudited financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2024 and a US$10 million Share Repurchase Program.

    Financial Highlights for the Full Year of 2024

    • Total revenues were RMB331.2 million (US$45.4 million) for the full year of 2024, compared with RMB424.0 million in the prior year. On the pro forma basis as if the deconsolidation of CEIBS Publishing Group Limited (“CEIBS PG”) occurred as of the beginning of 2022, the pro forma revenues would have been RMB327.9 million (US$44.9 million) for the full year of 2024, compared with RMB324.6 million for the full year of 2023, representing an increase of 1.0%.
    • Gross margin was 61.8% for the full year of 2024, compared with 54.1% in the prior year, representing an increase of 7.7%.
    • Net loss was RMB92.1 million (US$12.6 million), compared with RMB229.8 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 59.9%.
    • Number of subscription customers was 2,405 as of December 31, 2024, compared with 3,230 as of December 31, 2023. After adjusting for the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG, which accounted for 686 customers, the net change of 139 customers reflects the Company’s strategic shift toward large enterprise accounts with consistent demand for corporate learning solutions, and reflects a planned reduction of small and medium-sized customers from the Company’s portfolio.
    • Net revenue retention rates of subscription customers remained stable at 100.9%, compared with 101.4% in the prior year.

    Mr. Peter Lu, Director, Founder and Chairman of the Board of YXT.com, commented, “The rapid development of AI has created tremendous opportunities for our company, allowing us to successfully transform from digital learning to intelligent learning and expand our offerings into talent management. In 2024, our AI initiatives delivered tangible results in cost reduction and efficiency improvement, significantly narrowing our losses while enhancing value for both customers and shareholders. Our three new AI-powered business lines have already entered customer validation phase and will soon be brought to market, further expanding our business portfolio. As we execute our global expansion strategy this year, YXT.com is positioned at the forefront of the AI-driven industry transformation, ready to create sustainable value for our customers and investors alike.”

    Mr. Pun Leung Liu, Chief Financial Officer of YXT.com, added, “Our financial results for the full year of 2024 demonstrate the effectiveness of our operational optimization initiatives. Through strategic cost management and AI-enabled operational improvements across our business, we significantly narrowed our net loss to RMB92.1 million from RMB229.8 million. We remain committed to disciplined cost control while continuing to invest in strategic areas that drive long-term growth, particularly our technology capabilities and enterprise-focused solutions. With a healthy balance sheet and solid development strategy, we believe we are well-positioned to create long-term value for our shareholders.”

    Financial Results for the Full Year of 2024

    Revenues

    Revenues were RMB331.2 million (US$45.4 million), compared with RMB424.0 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 21.9%. On the pro forma basis as if the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG occurred as of the beginning of 2022, the pro forma revenues would have been RMB327.9 million (US$44.9 million) for the full year of 2024, compared with RMB324.6 million for the full year of 2023, representing an increase of 1.0%.

    • Revenues from corporate learning solutions were RMB325.6 million (US$44.6 million), compared with RMB411.8 million in the prior year.
      • Revenues from subscription based corporate learning solutions were RMB301.8 million (US$41.3 million), compared with RMB347.8 million in the prior year. The change was primarily due to (i) the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG starting from January 15, 2024, resulting in a decrease of RMB64.9 million; and (ii) the strategic suspension of certain ancillary online teaching tools. This was partially offset by an RMB18.9 million increase driven by the Company’s updated business expansion strategy of focusing on large enterprise subscription customers with strong and steady demand for corporate learning solutions.
      • Revenues from non-subscription based corporate learning solutions were RMB23.8 million (US$3.3 million), compared with RMB64.0 million in the prior year. The change was primarily due to (i) the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG starting from January 15, 2024, resulting in a decrease of RMB31.2 million; and (ii) reduced offline activities reflecting the Company’s strategic shift towards subscription-based corporate learning solutions.
    • Revenues from others were RMB5.6 million (US$0.8 million), compared with RMB12.2 million in the prior year. The change primarily reflects fewer customized software projects completed in 2024, aligning with the Company’s new strategic focus.

    Cost of revenues

    Cost of revenues was RMB126.5 million (US$17.3 million), compared with RMB194.5 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 34.9%. This was mainly due to (i) the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG starting from January 15, 2024, resulting in a decrease of RMB44.5 million; and (ii) cost reductions resulting from operational adjustments. Improved cost efficiencies were achieved through lower instructor compensation costs stemming from reduced offline activities, aligning with the Company’s strategic shift towards subscription-based corporate learning solutions, as well as through continuous efforts in optimizing human resources and effectively managing expenses.

    Gross margin

    Gross margin was 61.8%, compared with 54.1% in the prior year, representing an increase of 7.7%. This was mainly due to the Company’s new strategic focus on large enterprise subscription customers and ongoing cost optimization efforts.

    Sales and marketing expenses

    Sales and marketing expenses were RMB144.2 million (US$19.8 million), compared with RMB244.4 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 41.0%. This was mainly due to (i) the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG starting from January 15, 2024, resulting in a decrease of RMB62.7 million; and (ii) decreases in compensation paid to sales and marketing staff due to the Company’s efforts in optimizing its human resources.

    Research and development expenses

    Research and development expenses were RMB116.1 million (US$15.9 million), compared with RMB176.5 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 34.2%. This was mainly due to (i) the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG starting from January 15, 2024, resulting in a decrease of RMB22.5 million; and (ii) decreases in compensation paid to research and development staff due to the Company’s efforts in optimizing its human resources and increasing its research and development efficiency.

    General and administrative expenses

    General and administrative expenses were RMB138.4 million (US$19.0 million), compared with RMB142.9 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 3.1%. This was mainly due to (i) the deconsolidation of CEIBS PG starting from January 15, 2024, resulting in a decrease of RMB17.3 million; and (ii) a decrease in share-based compensation paid to general and administrative staff due to the completion of the amortization of certain share-based incentives. The decrease was partially offset by one-time IPO-related professional fees and litigation costs occurring in 2024.

    Net loss and adjusted net loss

    Net loss was RMB92.1 million (US$12.6 million), compared with a net loss of RMB229.8 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 59.9%. Adjusted net loss was RMB199.3 million (US$27.3 million), compared with an adjusted net loss of RMB277.6 million in the prior year, representing a decrease of 28.2%.

    Earnings/(loss) per share

    Basic net income per share was RMB2.90 (US$0.40) and diluted net loss per share was RMB0.55 (US$0.07), compared with basic and diluted net loss per share of RMB4.71 in the prior year. The improvement in basic earnings per share was primarily attributable to (i) the deemed contribution to ordinary shareholders due to modifications and extinguishment of the Company’s convertible redeemable preferred shares on July 1, 2024; and (ii) lower net loss in the full year of 2024 as compared with the prior year. The improvement was partially offset by net accretion on convertible redeemable preferred shares to redemption value in the full year of 2024.

    Recent Development

    On March 27, 2025, the Company has successfully completed a strategic rebranding initiative, adopting the “Radnova” name for its potential international operations. YXT.com operates its business in China through Jiangsu Radnova Intelligence Technology Co., Ltd. (formerly Jiangsu Yunxuetang Network Technology Co., Ltd.). As part of its global expansion, the Company has established a new entity in Singapore to serve as a headquarter for its overseas business to be conducted in the future. This strategic location will enable YXT.com to better serve and expand into international markets. The “Radnova” trademark will be used for the Company’s future international operations, symbolizing its transition from a China-focused e-learning company to a global AI-enabled enterprise productivity solutions provider.

    YXT.com today announced that its board of directors has authorized the Company to adopt a share repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to US$10 million of its ordinary shares in the form of American depositary shares (“ADSs”) during a two-year period (the “Share Repurchase Program”).

    The Company’s proposed repurchases, if adopted, may be made from time to time on the open market at prevailing market prices, in privately negotiated transactions, in derivative transactions, and/or through other legally permissible means, depending on market conditions and in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. The timing, structure and dollar amount of repurchase transactions will be subject to among others, the market conditions, terms to be agreed with the relevant repurchase agent, the trading prices of ADSs, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) Rule 10b-18 and/or Rule 10b5-1 requirements. The Company’s board of directors will review the Share Repurchase Program periodically, and may authorize adjustment of its terms and size or suspend or discontinue the program. The Company plans to fund repurchases from its existing cash balance.

    Balance Sheet

    As of December 31, 2024, the Company had cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, short-term investments and long-term bank deposits of RMB418.2 million (US$57.3 million), compared with RMB496.2 million as of December 31, 2023.

    Conference Call Information

    The Company’s management team will hold a conference call at 9:00 P.M. U.S. Eastern Time on Thursday, March 27, 2025 (or 9:00 A.M. Beijing Time on Friday, March 28, 2025) to discuss the financial results. Details for the conference call are as follows:

    All participants must use the link provided above to complete the online registration process in advance of the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will receive a set of participant dial-in numbers and a unique access PIN, which can be used to join the conference call.

    A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.yxt.com/.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In evaluating our business, we consider and use adjusted net loss as a supplemental non-GAAP measure to review and assess our operating performance. Adjusted net loss is net loss excluding amortization of incremental intangible assets resulting from business combination, gain on deconsolidation of CEIBS PG, share-based compensation, change in fair value of derivative liabilities, net of income taxes, to the extent applicable. The presentation of the non-GAAP financial measure is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. We present the non-GAAP financial measure because it is used by our management to evaluate our operating performance and formulate business plans. We also believe that the use of the non-GAAP measure facilitates investors’ assessment of our operating performance.

    The non-GAAP financial measure is not defined under U.S. GAAP and is not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measure has limitations as analytical tools. One of the key limitations of using the non-GAAP financial measure is that it does not reflect all items of income and expense that affect our operations. Further, the non-GAAP measure may differ from the non-GAAP information used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore its comparability may be limited. We compensate for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measure to the nearest U.S. GAAP performance measure, which should be considered when evaluating our performance. We encourage you to review our financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

    Exchange Rate Information

    This announcement contains translations of certain Renminbi (“RMB”) amounts into U.S. dollars (“US$”) at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise stated, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars were made at the rate of RMB7.2993 to US$1.00, the exchange rate on December 31, 2024, set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. The Company makes no representation that the Renminbi or U.S. dollars amounts referred to could be converted into U.S. dollars or Renminbi, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.

    Safe Harbor Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to”, or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    About YXT.com

    YXT.com (NASDAQ: YXT) is a technology company focusing on enterprise productivity solutions. With a mission to “Empower people and organization development through technology,” The Company strives to become the supreme provider in building and boosting enterprise productivity by combining over a decade of experience in tech-enabled talent learning and development and with AI-augmented task copilots and unleashing the power of knowledge and synergy. Since its inception, YXT.com has supported and received recognition from numerous Global and China Fortune 500 companies.

    YXT.com operates its business in China through “Jiangsu Radnova Intelligence Technology Co., Ltd.,” formerly known as “Jiangsu Yunxuetang Network Technology Co., Ltd.”. YXT.com has established an entity in Singapore to serve as a headquarter for its overseas business to be conducted in the future, with the “Radnova” trademark to serve international markets.

    Contact
    Robin Yang
    ICR, LLC
    YXT.IR@icrinc.com
    +1 (646) 405-4883

     
    YXT.COM GROUP HOLDING LIMITED

    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)

     
        As of
    December 31,
      As of
    December 31,
        2023   2024
        RMB   RMB   US$
                 
    ASSETS            
    Current assets:            
    Cash and cash equivalents   320,489   417,920   57,255
    Restricted Cash     322   44
    Short-term investments   58,128    
    Accounts receivable, net   32,790   19,386   2,656
    Amounts due from related parties     2,000   274
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net   12,028   35,791   4,903
    Total current assets   423,435   475,419   65,132
                 
    Non-current assets:            
    Property, equipment and software, net   23,402   15,175   2,079
    Intangible assets, net   12,720   7,069   968
    Goodwill   164,113   163,837   22,446
    Long-term investments   126,341   114,432   15,677
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net   34,997   25,655   3,515
    Other non-current assets   22,265   20,349   2,788
    Long-term bank deposits   117,573    
    Total non-current assets   501,411   346,517   47,473
    Total assets   924,846   821,936   112,605
                 
    LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE AND SHAREHOLDERS’ (DEFICIT)/EQUITY            
    Current liabilities            
    Accounts payable   17,855   7,389   1,013
    Amounts due to related parties     2,452   336
    Short-term borrowings   46,800   163,000   22,331
    Deferred revenue, current   188,485   125,428   17,184
    Acquisition consideration payable   14,775   14,775   2,024
    Other payable and accrued liabilities   89,937   72,028   9,867
    Derivative liabilities   100,279    
    Operating lease liabilities, current   15,818   8,966   1,228
    Total current liabilities   473,949   394,038   53,983
                 
    Non-current liabilities            
    Long-term borrowings   219,000   125,500   17,193
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current   20,257   17,458   2,392
    Deferred revenue, non-current   58,952   57,710   7,906
    Total non-current liabilities   298,209   200,668   27,491
    Total liabilities   772,158   594,706   81,474
     
    YXT.COM GROUP HOLDING LIMITED

    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)

     
        As of
    December 31,
      As of
    December 31,
        2023   2024
        RMB   RMB   US$
                 
    Mezzanine equity            
    Series A convertible redeemable preferred shares (US$0.0001 par value, 15,040,570 and nil shares authorized, issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   408,139          
    Series B convertible redeemable preferred shares (US$0.0001 par value, 7,085,330 and nil shares authorized, issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   199,518          
    Series C convertible redeemable preferred shares (US$0.0001 par value, 23,786,590 and nil shares authorized, issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   493,788          
    Series D convertible redeemable preferred shares (US$0.0001 par value, 37,152,161 and nil shares authorized, issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   1,059,434          
    Series E convertible redeemable preferred shares (US$0.0001 par value, 26,417,318 and nil shares authorized, issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   1,402,802          
    Total mezzanine equity   3,563,681          
                 
    Shareholders’ (deficit)/equity            
    Ordinary shares (US$0.0001 par value 390,518,031 and 500,000,000 shares authorized as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively; 48,253,425 and 180,226,597 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   33     129     18  
    Additional paid-in capital   16,671     3,489,553     478,067  
    Statutory reserve   4,322          
    Accumulated other comprehensive income   23,775     25,096     3,438  
    Accumulated deficit   (3,490,681 )   (3,287,548 )   (450,392 )
    Total YXT.COM Group Holding Limited shareholders’ (deficit)/equity   (3,445,880 )   227,230     31,131  
    Non-controlling interests   34,887          
    Total shareholders’ (deficit)/equity   (3,410,993 )   227,230     31,131  
    Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and shareholders’ (deficit)/equity   924,846     821,936     112,605  
     
    YXT.COM GROUP HOLDING LIMITED

    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
    (All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)

     
        Year ended December 31,
        2023   2024
        RMB   RMB   US$
                 
    Revenues:            
    Corporate learning solutions   411,822     325,579     44,604  
    Others   12,194     5,611     769  
    Total revenues   424,016     331,190     45,373  
                 
    Cost of revenues   (194,474 )   (126,522 )   (17,333 )
    Sales and marketing expenses   (244,379 )   (144,217 )   (19,758 )
    Research and development expenses   (176,537 )   (116,105 )   (15,906 )
    General and administrative expenses   (142,852 )   (138,392 )   (18,960 )
    Other operating income   5,629     6,974     955  
    Loss from operations   (328,597 )   (187,072 )   (25,629 )
                 
    Interest and investment income   4,613     6,494     890  
    Interest expense   (4,650 )   (10,699 )   (1,466 )
    Impairment of available‑for‑sale debt securities   (13,144 )   (14,464 )   (1,981 )
    Gain on deconsolidation of CEIBS Publishing Group       78,760     10,790  
    Foreign exchange (loss)/gain, net   (350 )   550     75  
    Change in fair value of derivative liabilities   102,419     34,378     4,710  
    Loss before income tax expense   (239,709 )   (92,053 )   (12,611 )
    Income tax benefit   9,871          
    Net loss   (229,838 )   (92,053 )   (12,611 )
                 
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests shareholders   9,383     300     41  
                 
    Net loss attributable to YXT.COM Group Holding Limited   (220,455 )   (91,753 )   (12,570 )
                 
     
    YXT.COM GROUP HOLDING LIMITED

    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
    (All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)

     
        Year ended December 31,
        2023   2024
        RMB   RMB   US$
                 
    Net loss attributable to YXT.COM Group Holding Limited   (220,455 )   (91,753 )   (12,570 )
    Deemed contribution to ordinary shareholders due to modifications and extinguishment on convertible redeemable preferred shares       672,170     92,087  
    Deemed dividend to convertible redeemable preferred share shareholders due to modifications       (5,940 )   (814 )
    Net accretion on convertible redeemable preferred shares to redemption value   (9,452 )   (290,543 )   (39,804 )
    Net (loss)/income attributable to ordinary shareholders of YXT.COM Group Holding Limited   (229,907 )   283,934     38,899  
                 
    Net loss   (229,838 )   (92,053 )   (12,611 )
    Other comprehensive loss            
    Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax   2,385     3,742     513  
    Unrealized gain/(loss) on investments in available-for-sale debt securities, net of tax   6,988     (2,421 )   (332 )
                 
    Total comprehensive loss   (220,465 )   (90,732 )   (12,430 )
                 
    Total comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interests   9,383     300     41  
                 
    Total comprehensive loss attributable to YXT.COM Group Holding Limited   (211,082 )   (90,432 )   (12,389 )
                 
    Net (loss)/income attributable to ordinary shareholders of YXT.COM Group Holding Limited   (229,907 )   283,934     38,899  
    —Weighted average number of ordinary shares – basic   48,781,392     97,788,561     97,788,561  
    —Weighted average number of ordinary shares – diluted   48,781,392     168,152,425     168,152,425  
                 
    Net (loss)/income per share attributable to ordinary shareholders:            
    —Basic   (4.71 )   2.90     0.40  
    —Diluted   (4.71 )   (0.55 )   (0.07 )
     
    YXT.COM GROUP HOLDING LIMITED

    UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP RESULTS
    (All amounts in thousands, except for share and per share data, unless otherwise noted)

     
        Year ended December 31,
        2023   2024
        RMB   RMB   US$
                 
    Net loss   (229,838 )   (92,053 )   (12,611 )
    Adjustments:            
    Amortization of incremental intangible assets resulting from business combination   16,340          
    Impairment of intangible assets   21,660          
    Gain on deconsolidation of CEIBS Publishing Group       (78,760 )   (10,790 )
    Share-based compensation   26,123     5,879     805  
    Change in fair value of derivative liabilities   (102,419 )   (34,378 )   (4,710 )
    Adjusted loss before income taxes   (268,134 )   (199,312 )   (27,306 )
    Adjusted income taxes   (9,500 )        
    Adjusted net loss   (277,634 )   (199,312 )   (27,306 )

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: ARB IOT Group Limited Unveils Cutting-Edge Smart AI Robot to Revolutionize Fertilization in Agriculture

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ARB IOT Group Limited (“ARB IOT” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: ARBB) has unveiled its AI-powered fertilizer system that seamlessly integrates the intelligent multi-functional agricultural robot (“Smart AI Robot”). This innovation is set to revolutionize modern farming by optimising fertilisation processes, enhancing crop yield, and promoting sustainable farming. This advanced AI-powered robot represents a significant leap forward in precision agriculture.

    The Smart AI Robot features unmanned field operations, modular design, all-terrain capability, centimetre-level positioning, ultra-long endurance, quick-replaceable battery, and precise operation, among others. It can be widely used in various types of plants such as palm oil, durian, lychee, mango, citrus, and orchards to realize unmanned spraying, mowing, fertilizing and delivery. The Company’s AI-powered fertilizer system will contribute to the materialization of a new mode of environmentally friendly agriculture production, through a series of new energy unmanned robotics and a big data platform that carry out intelligent and standardized management of various types of agricultural plants with fully automated fertilization, pesticide application, diagnostic scanning of plant and fruit conditions, and soil NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) measurement.

    It is estimated that by 2027, approximately 35% of Malaysia’s oil palm land will be overaged. Currently, only approximately 17% of such land has trees in the optimal four to eight-year range where motorised cutters could be effective—though their performance remains inconsistent. In Sabah and Sarawak, which account for approximately 55% of Malaysia’s oil palm areas, the terrain is dominated by steep hills and vast peatlands.

    The Company’s AI-powered fertilizer system utilizes cutting-edge machine learning algorithms and real-time soil data analysis to determine the precise amount of fertilizer needed for each section of farmland. When paired with the Smart AI Robot, the system is able to automate fertilizer application, minimize waste, maximize crop yield, and reduce environmental impact.

    “Traditional farming methods often rely on manual labor and generic fertilizer application, leading to inefficiencies and excessive resource consumption. By integrating AI and automation, our Smart AI Robot empowers farmers with more efficient and sustainable farming practices. This technology is a major step towards addressing global food security and environmental challenges” said Dato’ Sri Liew Kok Leong, CEO of ARB IOT. “With our AI-driven solution, farmers can now achieve precision farming at an unprecedented scale, ensuring optimal nutrient distribution tailored to specific crop and soil conditions.”

    Key benefits of the integrated Smart AI Robot include:

    • Precision Application: AI-driven data analytics ensure targeted fertilizer distribution, reducing overuse and underuse.
    • Automation and Efficiency: The autonomous agricultural robot reduces the need for manual labor, operating seamlessly across vast farmlands.
    • Sustainability: By minimizing fertilizer runoff and optimizing nutrient absorption, the system supports eco-friendly farming practices.
    • Cost Reduction: The conversion of solid fertilizers to liquid form leads to cost savings by reducing waste and improving absorption efficiency.
    • Real-time Monitoring: The AI system continuously collects and analyzes soil health and crop growth data, allowing for timely adjustments.

    The convergence of IoT technology with our smart farming system enables real-time monitoring through strategically placed sensors across plantations. These sensors capture data on soil moisture, temperature, humidity and other key environmental factors, providing farmers with instant insights via a central digital hub. This empowers them to make data-driven decisions, respond proactively to environmental changes and optimize farm productivity.

    With a focus on AI-driven advancements, we aim to drive progress in precision agriculture worldwide.

    About ARB IOT Group Limited

    ARB IOT Group Limited is a provider of complete solutions to clients for the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) systems and devices from designing to project deployment. We offer a wide range of IoT systems as well as provide customers a substantial range of services such as system integration and system support service. We deliver holistic solutions with full turnkey deployment from designing, installation, testing, pre-commissioning, and commissioning of various IoT systems and devices as well as integration of automated systems, including installation of wire and wireless and mechatronic works.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, such as statements regarding our estimated future results of operations and financial position, our strategy and plans, and our objectives or goals, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “should,” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Our actual results may differ materially or perhaps significantly from those discussed herein, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. There are a significant number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from statements made in this press release, including, but not limited to, those that we discussed or referred to in the Company’s disclosure documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F as well as in our other reports filed or furnished from time to time with the SEC. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

    For further information, please contact:
    ARB IOT Group Limited
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: contact@arbiotgroup.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Lists Walrus (WAL) in the Innovation and Web3 Zone

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has announced the listing of Walrus (WAL) on its platform. Trading for WAL/USDT will commence on 27 March 2025, 10:00 (UTC), with a deposit available now and a withdrawal available on 28 March 2025, 11:00 (UTC).

    Walrus is a decentralized storage network that stores and delivers raw data and media files, including videos, images, and PDFs. Walrus splits data into small pieces and distributes them across multiple nodes globally, ensuring data availability even in challenging situations.

    Built on the Sui Network with smart contracts, Walrus improves on protocols like Filecoin and Arweave for programmable, scalable storage. Metadata and proof of availability are stored on Sui, allowing users to leverage the composability, expressivity, and security offered by Sui and the Move programming language. Storage capacity can be tokenized and used as a programmable asset, allowing developers to integrate storage with apps on Sui. However, Walrus isn’t limited to Sui, it’s available to builders on other blockchains like Solana and Ethereum.

    The inclusion of Walrus provides an opportunity for users to engage with an innovative decentralized storage project enhancing data security and accessibility. It expands Bitget’s portfolio of assets available in the Innovation and Web3 Zone, underlining the platform’s commitment to offering promising projects which aligns with user needs and decentralized principles of blockchain technology.
    The Walrus listing further enriches the portfolio of assets available in the Innovation and Meme Zone, a segment customized for tokens that show creativity and cultural relevance. Bitget continues to position itself as a hub for innovative digital assets, enabling users to explore new opportunities in a fast-paced and ever-changing market.

    For more information on Walrus (WAL), users can visit here.

    About Bitget
    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.
    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, users can contact: media@bitget.com

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

    Contact

    Simran Alphonso
    media@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e0f1dab-b978-4cbd-be2d-b441f546e517

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer, Colleagues Request Removal of Burdensome Biden-Era Regulations on Broadband Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and Chair of the Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee, joined Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick ahead of his review of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.

    In their letter, the Senators request that Secretary Lutnick improve implementation of the BEAD program, which is aimed at expanding Internet access to Americans in rural areas and other unserved communities, by removing burdensome Biden-era regulations.

    “As you may be aware, Republican senators have previously raised concerns with the Biden administration’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and its implementation of the BEAD program,” the Senators wrote. “Specifically, NTIA ignored congressional direction and acted inconsistently with its statutory authority in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), filling the program with onerous regulations that prevented the quick, efficient deployment of broadband and resulted in not a single household being connected to the internet.”

    “Under your leadership, the BEAD program can finally fulfill its long overdue mission and ensure taxpayer dollars are not spent funding extraneous, burdensome regulations,” the Senators continued. “Eliminating these obstacles will empower states to work closely with broadband providers and accelerate deployment, maximize resources, and reach truly unserved and underserved communities without any more delay caused by unnecessary government interference.”

    The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.).

    Read the full letter 

    here or below:

    Dear Secretary Lutnick:

    We write to thank you for committing to a rigorous review of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.  As you may be aware, Republican senators have previously raised concerns with the Biden administration’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and its implementation of the BEAD program.  Specifically, NTIA ignored congressional direction and acted inconsistently with its statutory authority in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), filling the program with onerous regulations that prevented the quick, efficient deployment of broadband and resulted in not a single household being connected to the internet.  Therefore, we urge you to remove the Biden-era extraneous regulations as you review the BEAD program to ensure the responsible and effective use of taxpayer dollars. 

    In particular, we encourage you to remove the BEAD program’s restrictive labor requirements that disadvantage rural communities, provisions favoring government-owned networks over private investment, and guidelines that prioritize certain technologies over others and clearly contradict congressional pursuit of tech-neutrality. 

    Furthermore, despite the IIJA’s explicit prohibition on broadband rate regulation, NTIA exceeded its statutory authority and attempted to enact rate regulations anyway.  The inclusion of climate change mandates further diverted funds and focus away from the program’s primary objective of ensuring broadband access for unserved and underserved communities.  These unnecessary bureaucratic barriers slow deployment, increase costs, and ultimately run contrary to the very purpose of the program and should also be removed.  Even the former Director of the BEAD program recently admitted that many of these woke requirements were “inserted by the prior administration for messaging/political purposes” and “never central to the mission of the program.”

    Under your leadership, the BEAD program can finally fulfill its long overdue mission and ensure taxpayer dollars are not spent funding extraneous, burdensome regulations.  Eliminating these obstacles will empower states to work closely with broadband providers and accelerate deployment, maximize resources, and reach truly unserved and underserved communities without any more delay caused by unnecessary government interference.

    Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter.  We appreciate your leadership in reviewing and addressing these concerns, and we look forward to working with you.

    MIL OSI USA News