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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strabane Gears Up for a Spectacular Summer Jamm Festival

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Strabane Gears Up for a Spectacular Summer Jamm Festival

    6 June 2025

    Strabane is set to come alive this Saturday, June 7th, as the Summer Jamm Festival transforms the town into a vibrant hub of family fun and local talent. Running from 12pm until late, the festival offers a diverse lineup of attractions and events for all ages.

    The town centre will be bustling with activities including the Kidz Farm petting zoo, dinosaur encounters, urban sports demonstrations, and interactive drumming circles. Castle Place will feature BMX biking, parkour workshops, and graffiti art sessions, while Castle Street hosts the Roar Roar Dinosaurs baby dinosaur petting zoo. Main Street will offer live music, market stalls, and performances by local arts groups such as Class Act, Much Ado Stage School, and Encore PAA. The Alley Theatre will present the FizzWizzPop Magic Show, face painting, and arts and crafts workshops.

    As dusk falls, Strabane’s pubs will come alive with the inaugural Music Trail, featuring performances by local artists across venues including Christy’s Bar, The Railway Bar, Dicey’s Bar, and The Farmers’ Home. Artists such as DJ Ryan Doc, Adam Dolan, The Brambles, and Louis McTeggert will showcase the town’s rich musical heritage. The Music Trail begins at 4pm and offers attendees a unique opportunity to experience Strabane’s diverse musical scene in an intimate setting.

    A highlight of the festival is the Bear Run ’74 Supercar event, featuring a stunning display of luxury vehicles, including the Lamborghini Revuelto, known for its impressive performance. The supercars will be showcased on Railway Street, providing a thrilling spectacle for attendees and raising funds for the Mayor’s chosen charities, PIPS Suicide Prevention Derry and The Castlederg Patient and Comfort Terminally ill fund.

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, expressed his excitement for this weekend’s festivities.

    “Summer Jamm has become a cornerstone of our community calendar, bringing together businesses, residents and visitors alike to celebrate the best of Strabane. This year’s festival showcases our town’s creative spirit, local talent, and warm hospitality. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy a day of fun and for everyone to support our local businesses. It will be one of my first engagements as Mayor and I am really looking forward to getting out and about to meet you all.”

    To facilitate the event, the following roads will be closed to traffic from 7am to 7pm on Saturday, June 7th: Railway Street,Main Street, Castle Street and Castle Place.

    Traffic diversions will be in place with alternative routes signposted. Visitors are advised that streets will be busy with lots of activities taking place in and around the town centre, so motorists should use the town centre car parks or, if possible, travel to the event using public transport. Please note that Canal Street car park will be closed to facilitate Cullen’s Fun Fair. Disabled parking will be available in the car parks at Canal Basin North, Railway Street, Butcher Street, and in Upper and Lower Main Street.

    For more information, please visit  www.derrystrabane.com/summerjamm

    For all updates and detailed schedules, visit the official Summer Jamm website or follow the event on social media.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fun for Just £1 This Summer at Derry and Strabane Leisure Centres

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

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

    6 June 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Monday 9th June

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

    City Baths – Online and inhouse from 11am

    Tuesday 10th June

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor McHugh looking forward to welcoming West Indies cricketers to Derry and Strabane

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor McHugh looking forward to welcoming West Indies cricketers to Derry and Strabane

    11 June 2025

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, is looking forward to welcoming the West Indies international cricket team to the Council area this week for their three game Twenty20 series with Ireland at Bready Cricket Club.

    The games are taking place on June 12th, 14th and 15th at the Magheramason club and Mayor McHugh will attend the opening game on Thursday before hosting a civic reception in the Guildhall for both teams on Friday.

    The North West Cricket Union have received Council’s National Events Fund to help host the event and Council’s Environment team have also provided floral arrangements, hanging baskets and planters for the games.

    “I am delighted to see world class cricket returning to Derry and Strabane with the arrival of the West Indies team for these three high profile games,” said Mayor McHugh.

    “The North West Cricket Union have shown great ambition in developing Bready Cricket Club as an international level ground and it’s a valuable opportunity for us to showcase our region as a host for elite level sports events.

    “The event will attract thousands of visitors to the City and District over the weekend and millions of viewers across the world so the positive impact it will have for our hospitality sector and on our international profile is significant.” 

    The games will all begin at 3pm and tickets, priced at £15 each, are available to buy now on the Cricket Ireland website at cricketireland.ie 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derry City and Strabane District Council Wins Prestigious RTPI Northern Ireland Planning Excellence

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Derry City and Strabane District Council Wins Prestigious RTPI Northern Ireland Planning Excellence

    11 June 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council has been awarded the prestigious RTPI (Royal Town Planning Institute) Northern Ireland Award for Planning Excellence 2025 in the category of Excellence in Planning for Heritage and Culture, in recognition of its transformative Clooney Terrace Cannon Regeneration Project.

    The award, announced yesterday at the RTPI Welcome Celebration Event at Malone House, Belfast, celebrates the Council’s leadership and collaborative approach in revitalising the historic Clooney Cannon site into a vibrant, accessible public space that respects and enhances the area’s rich heritage.

    Delivered in partnership with the Bonds Street Community Association and Clooney All Saints Church of Ireland, the £215k project, which was funded by Department for Communities, has successfully breathed new life into a site of significant cultural and historical value in the Waterside area. The scheme, completed in 2024, included extensive environmental improvements such as the restoration of the historic Crimean War-era cannon, installation of new seating, planting, lighting, and interpretive signage. A new pathway now connects the cannon site to the adjacent church garden, with improved access points, new boundary railings, and sympathetic lighting that integrates and highlights both heritage assets.

    The project was fully funded by the Department for Communities and reflects a broader strategy of heritage-led regeneration and placemaking within the district.

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, welcomed the award win:
    “We are absolutely delighted to receive this recognition from the RTPI. It is a powerful endorsement of what can be achieved through genuine community partnership and thoughtful planning. The Clooney Cannon project not only honours our shared past but also creates a lasting space that will benefit local residents and visitors alike for generations to come. I’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge well done and congratulations to everyone involved in this impressive project.”

    The RTPI Northern Ireland Awards for Planning Excellence celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact in planning across the region. The Clooney Terrace Cannon Regeneration Project stood out among a competitive field for its thoughtful integration of heritage and community needs, showcasing the power of planning to shape meaningful, inclusive spaces.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Alley Theatre to host Prestigious International Conference

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Alley Theatre to host Prestigious International Conference

    11 June 2025

    The 8th International Flann O’Brien Conference is set to bring a vibrant gathering of scholars and enthusiasts of Flann O Brien’s work to Strabane’s Alley Theatre from June 25th to 27th, 2025.

    This prestigious event, hosted in Strabane for the first time, will delve into this year’s theme: An Fód Dúchais: Home, Heritage, and origins.

    Jointly hosted by the International Flann O’Brien Society and Strabane History Society the conference marks a significant return to O ’Nolan’s birth town, Strabane. The town, with its unique geographical and historical position perfectly embodies themes of fluidity and contested spaces — concepts central to O’Brien’s satirical and often surreal literary output.

    On Tuesday, June 24th, schools are invited to a free theatrical performance of “Flann O’Brien” by Justin Logue at 11am, followed by an informal pre-conference gathering of conference delegates at Farmer’s Home, Railway Street, Strabane.

    This international gathering promises to be a rich exploration of Flann O’Brien’s literary genius, offering insights into his enduring relevance and the unique cultural landscape that shaped his extraordinary imagination.

    The conference will feature three distinguished keynote speakers: Dr. Tobias W. Harris (Birkbeck, University of London); Dr. Michael Pierse (Queen’s University Belfast) and Dr. Emily Ridge (University of Galway).

    The conference commences on Wednesday, June 25th, with a Walking Tour of Flann O’Brien’s Strabane led by members of The Alley Theatre team, scripted by Strabane History Society offering our international delegates a unique perspective on the town that influenced O ‘Nolan’s work. The day will also include a keynote address by Dr. Emily Ridge titled ‘Dul Siar, Dul Siar: The Ever-Receding West in An Béal Bocht’, followed by an Official Opening with a Civic Reception and performances led by local artists to welcome delegates to Strabane.

    Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of academic panels throughout the three days, covering topics such as “Old and New,” “Science and Health,” “Technology and Media,” and “Social Contexts & Formative Communities.”

    Thursday, June 26th, will feature a keynote address by Dr. Tobias Harris, ‘Ag Fuineadh Ama: Opening Closed Ground in the Works of Brian Ó Nualláin’, and a special Film Screening showcasing “Babble” (2008) by David O’Kane and “Re-enactment” (2009) by Eamon O’Kane, both inspired by O’Nolan’s work.

    The evening will conclude with a Book launch for Flann O’Brien and the European Avant-Garde, 1934–45 (Bloomsbury Academic, 2025) and the launch of Micheál Ó Nualláin Art Exhibit by Anna Uí Nualláin in the museum services space at The Alley Theatre gallery. In the main gallery, O’Kane Family will also launch “Strange Enlightenments”; responses to the work of Brian O’ Nolan featuring artwork by Eddie O’Kane, Joanna O’Kane, Eamon O’Kane, Matthew O’Kane and David O’Kane which will be showcased throughout the summer months.

    The final day, Friday, June 27th, includes a keynote address by Dr. Michael Pierse on ‘False Alternatives and Grim Absurdities: Flann O’Brien’s Social Critique of Independent Ireland in At Swim-Two-Birds and An Béal Bocht’.

    Each lunchtime internationally renowned singer and songwriter Brian Hassan will provide music on our café stage.

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Ruairí McHugh said it was a huge honour for the Alley Theatre to host a conference of this calibre. Extending his best wishes to everyone involved in the event he said he hoped it would be a huge success.

    He acknowledged the role played by officers of Derry City and Strabane District Council in working to bring this event to the Alley Theatre,  while also showcasing what Strabane has to offer in what will be a great visitor experience and a chance for the local community to capture a taste of Flann O Brien from an academic perspective from his town of birth.

    For further information and programme details please visit www.alley-theatre.com or contact Alley box office 02871384444 or visit. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 4.30pm

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: The largest genome database in Russia has been compiled as part of the genetic initiative “100,000 I”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Center for Whole Genome Sequencing of Biotechnology Campus LLC (hereinafter referred to as the Center) has fulfilled the plan for collecting biomaterials within the framework of the national genetic initiative “100,000 I”. The total number of samples has exceeded 100,000 units, of which more than 80,000 have already been decoded and entered into the project database. Full processing of the collected genomes will be completed by the end of the year.

    The 100,000 I project is being implemented by the Center within the framework of the Federal Scientific and Technical Program for the Development of Genetic Technologies, the main technological partner of which is PJSC NK Rosneft. The main objective of the initiative is to decipher and systematize the genomes of Russian residents to identify hereditary predisposition to serious diseases.

    At the current stage of research, scientists have already identified the genetic causes of diseases in more than 10,000 patients. Bioinformatics analysis has identified thousands of unique genetic variants associated with 500 different rare (orphan) diseases.

    In addition, based on the analysis of more than 50,000 genomes of the initiative’s volunteers, reference data on the genetic diversity of the Russian population has been formed – the so-called “genomic landscape”. These data will become the starting point for further work, which scientists will be able to rely on to identify new patterns in human DNA.

    Additionally, samples of over 5,000 representatives of 50 different nationalities of the Russian Federation were analyzed. To assess the frequency of genetic variants that lead to severe genetic diseases, in certain regions, for example, in Yakutia or in the regions of the North Caucasus Federal District, expanded studies of representatives of individual ethnic communities are being conducted. Their results will form the basis for genetic screening programs for healthy family planning and prevention of hereditary pathologies.

    The implementation of the “100,000 I” initiative makes a significant contribution to the development of personalized medicine and prevention of hereditary diseases in the country. The center cooperates with leading medical and genetic research centers, including: Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Academician B.V. Petrovsky Russian Scientific Center of Surgery, Academician N.P. Bochkov Medical and Genetic Research Center, Ufa Federal Research Institute and many others.

    Rosneft pays special attention to the development of the scientific and educational part of the project. Together with Rosneft, master’s programs in genetics have been developed and launched at Moscow State University and Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology: “Genomics and Human Health” and “Algorithmic Biology”, respectively. During the training, students of the programs undergo practical training at the Center’s sites, and after successfully mastering the specialty and graduating, they have the opportunity to find employment there. The formation of a personnel reserve and the development of the scientific infrastructure of the project create the basis for further progress in the field of genetic technologies in Russia.

    Specialists from the Biotechnology Campus regularly participate in educational events. In particular, in 2023-2024 they gave lectures and presentations at the Rosneft pavilion as part of the international exhibition and forum Russia at VDNKh.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 11, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Putting Conservatives Back into Conservation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: A Hope for the Future

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: One Big, Beautiful Bill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Backing the Blue

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

    The badge and uniform our law enforcement officials wear come with a weighty responsibility and reality. They come with service and sacrifice, and a deep commitment to the communities these brave men and women have sworn to protect. This week is National Police Week, and our nation honored those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty to ensure the safety of our cities, state, and nation. 

    For sixty-three years, our country has set aside this special week to memorialize and honor the fallen police officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy officially signed a proclamation designating the 15th of May as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. However, for much longer than that, our nation has been grateful for those who have sworn to protect and serve. 

    America’s first taste of the law enforcement system began in colonial America, as society became less rural and began a more urban way of life, ushering in the unfortunate reality of crime, riots, and other public acts of endangerment. Boston’s watchmen were the very first American law enforcement group to be organized in 1631, receiving a small amount of pay in exchange for their watchful eye over the safety of their community. 

    Since that time, our nation has continued to grow and expand its law enforcement system, following in the footsteps of our English counterparts and its system of sheriffs, constables, and other law enforcers who, combined, contribute to create our local and state justice systems. Now, there are hundreds of men and women in the state of Arkansas who proudly wear their badge and uniform to protect their fellow Arkansans.

    The Arkansas State Police were established in March 1935 by Governor J.M. Futress with the assistance of the Arkansas General Assembly. Act 120, the Chrip-Carter bill, was signed into law establishing Arkansas’s state police force with the goal of protecting the lives of Arkansans and their property. As the Representative of the Fourth District of Arkansas, I am certainly grateful for the service of each one of our law enforcement officers and their contributions to our state’s ultimate safety.

    Our nation stands united in gratitude for every law enforcement officer who has paid the ultimate sacrifice in keeping their sworn oath to protect our communities. Lawmakers in Washington took this week to pass legislation supporting our nation’s law enforcement officials and pay tribute to the nearly 24,400 officers who have fallen in the line of duty across the country – holding vigils and memorial services in their honor.

    National Police Week will always serve as a reminder of the sacrifices our nation’s police officers make to secure our nation’s safety. House Republicans will always continue to back the blue, and it is truly an honor to join my colleagues in passing legislation and advocating for such important measures to ensure their safety and supply them with the tools they need to continue protecting our communities. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting Arkansans in Need

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

    The war against opioids and deadly illicit drugs still rages on, but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel for those who struggle with substance abuse. As we learn more about the successful ways to address substance use disorders, more opportunities for treatment and recovery are created that reach into our communities and create viable paths forward. Many of these opportunities for recovery are thanks in part to work done not only on the local and state levels, but at the federal level through legislation passed by Congress. 

    In 2018, Congress passed the Substance-Use Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities (SUPPORT) Act which was ultimately signed into law by President Trump. At that time, it was historically the largest Congressional investment in overdose prevention focused on strengthening the nation’s response to the substance abuse crisis that had already claimed millions of lives. Now, Congress has the chance to extend these life-saving provisions and continue extending critical care and resources to those in need.

    Legislation like the SUPPORT Act that is focused on treatment and recovery programs is undoubtedly a contributing factor to the decreasing number of fatal overdoses reported across the country. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that in Arkansas, fatal overdoses fell 25.5% from 517 in 2023 to 385 in 2024. Promising results like this are exactly why we must continue creating avenues to bolster training programs for first responders, fund community-based recovery and youth prevention efforts, and renew funding for prevention, treatment, and recovery programs, among other initiatives. 

    On the floor this week in the House of Representatives, House Republicans passed legislation reauthorizing key public health programs focused on prevention, treatment, and recovery for patients with substance use disorder that were established in the original SUPPORT Act and proved to be successful, providing life-saving solutions. Vital pieces of legislation like this reflect House Republicans’ sincere commitment to improving America’s health, combatting the deadly opioid crisis, and creating opportunities for success among our nation’s most vulnerable. 

    It is an honor not taken lightly to work diligently and tirelessly in Washington on behalf of the friends and neighbors whom I serve across the Fourth District. In passing legislation like the SUPPORT Act, Congress has the ability to lift up local programs across the Fourth District which directly affect real people with real needs. While there is still much work to be done to put an end to the opioid crisis for good, the SUPPORT Act is an excellent step in the right direction to provide hope for the people of Arkansas and our country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON, COLLEAGUES, VETERANS SHARE HOW CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS’ POLICIES ARE HARMING VETERANS’ CARE

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

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON RELEASES STATEMENT ON ARREST OF CALIFORNIA SEIU PRESIDENT, DEPLOYMENT OF NATIONAL GUARD TO L.A.

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

    St. Helena, CA – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement on the undue arrest of California SEIU President, David Huerta, and the President’s unwarranted deployment of California National Guard troops to Los Angeles:  

    “The Trump Administration’s choice to deploy California’s National Guard and arrest California SEIU President David Huerta are typical and unsurprising. The Trump Administration is doing exactly what they do best: dividing the American people and causing chaos. 

    “People have a right to protest peacefully and within the law. Local law enforcement has not requested federal support. Our Governor has asked this administration to get out of California, so they should get out. I urge Los Angeles residents to continue to stand up to this intimidation by continuing to speak out and demonstrate peacefully.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Christopher Hui concludes UK visit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Steal, Deal, Repeat: Cybercriminals cash in on your data

    Source: Europol

    Europol’s 2025 Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment (IOCTA), published today, reveals how stolen data fuels the digital underworld, powering a criminal ecosystem that spans from online fraud and ransomware to child exploitation and extortion. The report paints a stark picture of a cybercrime economy built on access—access to your systems, your identity, and your most sensitive information.The Head of Europol’s…

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [MARLOWE PLC – 10 06 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
    N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    MARLOWE PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    10 JUNE 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    NO

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 50p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 3,112,147 3.9634    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 3,112,147 3.9634    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    50p ORDINARY SALE 2,065 437.65p
    50p ORDINARY SALE 710 440p
    50p ORDINARY SALE 1,480 440.35p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.
    Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 11 JUNE 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: EBC Financial Group Launches over a 100 U.S. ETF CFDs, Strengthening Diversification for Global Clients

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EBC Financial Group (EBC) has announced the launch of over 100 new U.S.-listed Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) CFDs, expanding its multi-asset product suite and offering global client’s deeper access to diversified, thematic trading opportunities. The rollout highlights EBC’s ongoing commitment to delivering institutional-grade tools across asset classes, underpinned by flexibility, transparency, and efficiency.

    The new offering includes ETFs listed on the NYSE and NASDAQ, issued by leading asset managers such as Vanguard, iShares (BlackRock), and State Street Global Advisors. Thematic coverage spans a wide range of global macro and sectoral narratives.

    “This expansion reflects our vision to bridge intelligent product design with market relevance,” said David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd. “The new products are a natural evolution for traders seeking targeted exposure with greater strategic flexibility. At EBC, we’re building an ecosystem that empowers both precision and performance.”

    Thematic Access Meets Tactical Flexibility

    The additional ETF-linked instruments cover a variety of market exposures, including geographic allocations like the iShares MSCI Brazil ETF; fixed income-focused strategies such as the iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond Fund; and sector- or commodity-based indices including the United States Oil Fund LP and the Vanguard Health Care ETF. Other themes include dividend-related baskets, mid-cap equities, and style-based index tracking.

    These developments reflect wider industry interest in instruments that mirror trends in asset allocation without direct ownership of the underlying securities. Across many markets, sector-tilted and style-based index products are gaining relevance as participants seek flexible ways to align with global narratives.

    Historically, ETFs tracking specific economic cycles—such as commodity recoveries or emerging market rebounds—have demonstrated performance differentiation. The iShares MSCI Brazil ETF, for example, notably outperformed the S&P 500 during the post-pandemic recovery period in 2021, highlighting how thematic instruments can diverge from broad indices depending on market cycles.

    These additions serve as both stand-alone trade ideas and complementary instruments alongside EBC’s existing product lineup, enabling advanced portfolio structuring and thematic trading.

    Smarter Exposure: Leverage, Shorting, and Cost Efficiency in One Product

    Compared to direct ETF investments, it presents several key advantages as traders benefit from a simplified cost structure, with no traditional fund management fees or broker commissions. The flexibility to take both long and short positions allows for strategic trading regardless of market direction, while the use of leverage enhances capital efficiency and return potential. These trades are executed in real time via EBC’s recognised platforms, providing seamless access to market opportunities.

    During key market cycles, for example the post-pandemic V-shaped recovery of 2021—certain thematic ETFs, like the iShares MSCI Brazil ETF, significantly outperformed broader indices such as the S&P 500. Our portfolio enables traders to participate in similar trends, adapting quickly to shifting market dynamics with precision and speed.

    Getting Started

    These products can be accessed by registering on www.ebc.com to begin simulated or live trading.

    About EBC Financial Group  
    Founded in London’s esteemed financial district, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is a global brand known for its expertise in financial brokerage and asset management. Through its regulated entities operating across major financial jurisdictions—including the UK, Australia, the Cayman Islands, Mauritius, and others—EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access a wide range of global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, shares, and indices.

    Recognised with multiple awards, EBC is committed to upholding ethical standards and is licensed and regulated within the respective jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA); EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia’s Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC);  EBC Financial (MU) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission Mauritius (FSC).  

    At the core of EBC are a team of industry veterans with over 40 years of experience in major financial institutions. Having navigated key economic cycles from the Plaza Accord and 2015 Swiss franc crisis to the market upheavals of the COVID-19 pandemic. We foster a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor relationship is handled with the utmost seriousness it deserves.   

    As the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, EBC provides specialised services across Asia, LATAM, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania. Through its partnership with United to Beat Malaria, the company contributes to global health initiatives. EBC also supports the ‘What Economists Really Do’ public engagement series by Oxford University’s Department of Economics, helping to demystify economics and its application to major societal challenges, fostering greater public understanding and dialogue.  

    https://www.ebc.com/ 

    Media Contact:
    Savitha Ravindran
    Global Public Relations Manager
    savitha.ravindran@ebc.com

    Michelle Siow
    Brand & Communications Director
    michelle.siow@ebc.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: New Zealand’s ‘symbolic’ sanctions on Israel too little, too late, say opposition parties

    By Russell Palmer, RNZ News political reporter

    Opposition parties say Aotearoa New Zealand’s government should be going much further, much faster in sanctioning Israel.

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters overnight revealed New Zealand had joined Australia, Canada, the UK and Norway in imposing travel bans on Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

    Some of the partner countries went further, adding asset freezes and business restrictions on the far-right ministers.

    Peters said the pair had used their leadership positions to actively undermine peace and security and remove prospects for a two-state solution.

    Israel and the United States criticised the sanctions, with the US saying it undermined progress towards a ceasefire.

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, attending Fieldays in Waikato, told reporters New Zealand still enjoyed a good relationship with the US administration, but would not be backing down.

    “We have a view that this is the right course of action for us,” he said.

    Behind the scenes job
    “We have differences in approach but the Americans are doing an excellent job of behind the scenes trying to get Israel and the Palestinians to the table to talk about a ceasefire.”

    Asked if there could be further sanctions, Luxon said the government was “monitoring the situation all the time”.

    Peters has been busy travelling in Europe and was unavailable to be interviewed. ACT — probably the most vocally pro-Israel party in Parliament — refused to comment on the situation.

    The opposition parties also backed the move, but argued the government should have gone much further.

    Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick has since December been urging the coalition to back her bill imposing economic sanctions on Israel. With support from Labour and Te Pāti Māori it would need just six MPs to cross the floor to pass.

    Calling the Israeli actions in Gaza “genocide”, she told RNZ the government’s sanctions fell far short of those imposed on Russia.

    “This is symbolic, and it’s unfortunate that it’s taken so long to get to this point, nearly two years . . .  the Minister of Foreign Affairs also invoked the similarities with Russia in his statement this morning, yet we have seen far less harsh sanctions applied to Israel.

    “We’re well past the time for first steps.”

    ‘Cowardice’ by government
    The pushback from the US was “probably precisely part of the reason that our government has been so scared of doing the right thing”, she said, calling it “cowardice” on the government’s part.

    “What else are you supposed to call it at the end of the day?,” she said, saying at a bare minimum the Israeli ambassador should be expelled, Palestinian statehood should be recognised, and a special category of visas for Palestinians should be introduced.

    She rejected categorisation of her stance as anti-semitic, saying that made no sense.

    “If we are critiquing a government of a certain country, that is not the same thing as critiquing the people of that country. I think it’s actually far more anti-semitic to conflate the actions of the Israeli government with the entire Jewish peoples.”

    Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer . . . “It’s not a war, it’s an annihilation”. Image: RNZ/Samuel Rillstone

    Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer said the sanctions were political hypocrisy.

    “When it comes to war, human rights and the extent of violence and genocide that we’re seeing, Palestine is its own independent nation . . .  why is this government sanctioning only two ministers? They should be sanctioning the whole of Israel,” she said.

    “These two Israel far right ministers don’t act alone. They belong to an entire Israel government which has used its military might and everything it can possibly do to bombard, to murder and to commit genocide and occupy Gaza and the West Bank.”

    Suspend diplomatic ties
    She also wanted all diplomatic ties with Israel suspended, along with sanctions against Israeli companies, military officials and additional support for the international courts — also saying the government should have done more.

    “This government has been doing everything to do nothing . . .  to appease allies that have dangerously overstepped unjustifiable marks, and they should not be silent.

    “It’s not a war, it’s an annihilation, it’s an absolute annihilation of human beings . . .  we’re way out there supporting those allies that are helping to weaponise Israel and the flattening and the continual cruel occupation of a nation, and it’s just nothing that I thought in my living days I’d be witnessing.”

    She said the government should be pushing back against “a very polarised, very Trump attitude” to the conflict.

    “Trumpism has arrived in Aotearoa . . .  and we continue to go down that line, that is a really frightening part for this beautiful nation of ours.

    “As a nation, we have a different set of values. We’re a Pacific-based country with a long history of going against the grain – the mainstream, easy grind. We’ve been a peaceful, loving nation that stood up against the big boys when it came to our anti nuclear stance and that’s our role in this, our role is not to follow blindly.”

    Undermining two-state solution
    In a statement, Labour’s foreign affairs spokesperson Peeni Henare said the actions of Smotrich and Ben-Gvir had attempted to undermine the two-state solution and international law, and described the situation in Gaza as horrific.

    “The travel bans echo the sanctions placed on Russian individuals and organisations that supported the illegal invasion of Ukraine,” he said.

    He called for further action.

    “Labour has been calling for stronger action from the government on Israel’s invasion of Gaza, including intervening in South Africa’s case against Israel in the International Court of Justice, creation of a special visa for family members of New Zealanders fleeing Gaza, and ending government procurement from companies operating illegally in the Occupied Territories.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sexual Violence in eastern DRC is a persistent emergency

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

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

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

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

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

    Sexual violence remains a medical emergency that requires immediate action.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Essential services under threat

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

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

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

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

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

    *Names changed to protect patient anonymity.

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    MIL OSI NGO –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: Vodafone Idea Launches 5G Commercial Service in Bengaluru with Samsung’s Versatile Solutions

    Source: Samsung

     
    Leading telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) today announced the commercial launch of 5G services by partnering with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Samsung) in Bengaluru region, one of the key telecom markets in India and a global IT hub known as the “Silicon Valley of India”. Since 2024, the companies have been working together to deploy a new generation, 5G network and modernize Vi’s legacy 2G and 4G networks with Samsung’s industry-leading solutions in major telecom circles of India including Bihar, Karnataka and Punjab.
     
    As part of this collaboration, Vi had already launched 5G commercial services in Chandigarh and Patna in April 2025. Vi has successfully deployed Samsung’s small form-factor, energy-efficient and high transmit power radios for enabling a seamless 5G experience across all the three circles. These solutions offer increased cell capacity and energy savings features to deliver better consumer experience with greener and more sustainable approaches for Vi’s customers.
     
    For this deployment, Samsung provided its wide range of radios supporting diverse spectrum bands, including 32T32R Massive MIMO radios, along with Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions that encompass baseband and software functions known as the virtualized Central Unit (vCU).
     
    The companies have also implemented the nation’s first virtualized Base Station Controller (vBSC), a key network element for 2G services, thereby modernizing its network with cutting-edge software solutions while still ensuring legacy technology and services are supported.
     
    Virtualization of network functionalities enable Vi to streamline network deployment and facilitate easier management, which results in greater efficiency, lower operational costs, better resource allocation control, and increased customer satisfaction. With this virtualization adoption, operators can build software-based and flexible networks more easily, gaining a competitive edge in bringing future networks.
     
    Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea said: “The launch of Vi’s 5G services in Bengaluru as well as Chandigarh and Patna, marks a key step in introducing Samsung as a new partner in our ecosystem and towards delivering seamless, highly reliable next-generation services to our customers. By partnering with Samsung, our endeavor is to offer the best customer experience and provide our customers with enhanced mobile broadband throughputs and high capacity required in today’s digitally connected world.”
     
    Woojune Kim, President and Head of Networks Business at Samsung Electronics said: “India, especially Bengaluru, stands at the forefront of the global digital transformation, and we are proud to accompany Vi’s innovative journey in delivering next-generation connectivity to its customers in one of the world’s most dynamic and advanced IT markets. Samsung always thinks a step ahead, anticipating future needs of mobile operators. Through this collaboration, Samsung is fully committed in supporting Vi to satisfy the demands of mobile users and boost enterprise growth with our innovative spirits.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence personnel support NHS blood donation campaign to save lives

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Defence personnel support NHS blood donation campaign to save lives

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

    MOD Copyright

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

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

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

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

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

    MOD Copyright

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

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

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

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

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

    MOD Copyright

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

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

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

    You can donate if you:

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

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

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

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

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

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    Published 11 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kit Out Sunderland helping the planet and local participants

    Source: City of Sunderland

    From 6-29 June, 12 locations across Sunderland and Tyne and Wear will be open to receive donations of unwanted sports kit and active wear that will be gifted to local children, young people and families.

    Kit Out Sunderland will help the planet by providing individuals and community youth and sports organisations across the area with the opportunity to see their new or unwanted sports kit and active wear given a new life, rather than stay in the bottom of a wardrobe or end up in landfill.

    The donations will then be sorted in early July and distributed to children, young people and families through local groups, supporting local people be more active this summer and beyond.

    Kit Out Sunderland is a collective partnership between Active Sunderland, RISE, Sported, StreetGames and Youth Sport Trust, with sponsorship from the North East Combined Authority.

    The partners are working together to reduce barriers to participation in sport and physical activity locally, whilst reducing the environmental impact of sports kit and active wear. Striving to have healthier, safer, and more active communities.

    Donation points will be open at various locations from 6-29 June, with special requests for sports and active leisure tops, hoodies and tracksuits, leggings and joggers, waterproofs, trainers and football boots which are new or in a clean and useable condition.

    Special donation stations will also be open at the Nissan manufacturing plant for Nissan employees to donate their sports kit and active wear.

    Donations will be sorted by young volunteers from Sunderland College and the Foundation of Light once the collection window closes on 29 June, before local youth and sports organisations distribute the donations to local children, young people and families accessing their services.

    A full list of public donation stations is available below:

    ·       Sunderland Aquatic Centre

    ·       Ford Football Hub

    ·       Downhill Football Hub

    ·       Washington Football Hub

    ·       Raich Carter Sport Centre

    ·       Silksworth Community Pool, Tennis and Wellness Centre

    ·       Houghton Sports Centre

    ·       Hetton Community Pool and Wellness Centre

    ·       Washington Leisure Centre

    ·       Beacon of Light

    ·       Sunderland City Hall

    ·       Sunderland College

    Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, Councillor Beth Jones, said: “This is a fantastic way of giving a new lease of life to unwanted sports kit.

    “It helps both those who want to get active but don’t have the kit and those who have it but no longer need it.

    “We’re delighted it’s happening in Sunderland and our thanks go all the partners who are hosting donation boxes.”

    Director of Skills, Inclusion & Public Service Reform, Charlotte Carpenter, said: “Sport and physical activity has so much to offer from a mental, physical and social health perspective, so to see organisations in the region working together to reduce barriers to participation is something we are delighted to support and fund as part of our mission to reduce child poverty. 

    “We encourage everyone who lives, works and visits the Sunderland area to consider donating where they can and help us to create a better community for all.”

    Strategic Lead for Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing at Rise North East, Louise Laws, said: “There’s an amazing buzz in Sunderland right now and this is a great chance to boost that even more.  

    “Donating new or recycled sports kit and active clothing/footwear that you don’t need helps local children, young people and families in your community and also helps the environment, because it doesn’t go to waste or end up in landfills. 

    “Once we sort the kit, it’ll go to local people so that they can get more active and really improve their health and wellbeing, because every child and young person has the right to play and be active. We look forward to continuing to build relationships to empower the community to sustain and upscale this offer, wider.”

    Sported Regional Manager for the North East, Kathryn Foley, said: “Sported’s network of clubs and groups across the North East support local participants to be active and take part in sport every week.

    “It’s exciting that we can take this opportunity through Kit Out Sunderland to benefit local people and the environment through distributing unwanted kit, and I look forward to seeing the items donated and distributed through our Sported network members.”

    StreetGames North East Network Lead, Anna Coulson, said: “Working with Locally Trusted Organisations on a daily basis we know there is so much amazing work happening around the city to provide a year-round, multi-sport offer to young people but despite this some young people still cannot access it due to not having the appropriate sports kit.

    “We have worked with some of these organisations to really understand what is needed within their communities and we hope this initiative will help young people to become physically active into the future! We also wanted to ensure that sports kit gets a full life and doesn’t end up in landfill!”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: 35-day fishing ban imposed on Heilongjiang River

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 11 (Xinhua) — A 35-day fishing ban was imposed on the Heilongjiang River (Amur), which partially flows along the China-Russia border, from 00:00 on June 11, the Guangming Daily news portal reported.

    In order to protect the environment and restore fish resources, all fishing in the Heilongjiang River will be prohibited for the next 35 days, the local public security department reminded. In order to tighten the fight against poaching and ensure safety, border checkpoint officers have increased patrols.

    At the same time, a ban on fishing is introduced from June 11 to July 15 on the Ussuri River and its tributaries, including Sungach, Mulinkhe and Nalikhe.

    Earlier this month, a 40-day fishing ban was officially imposed on Lake Xingkai /Khanka/, located on the Chinese-Russian border. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China urges US to treat Taiwan issue with utmost caution

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 11 (Xinhua) — State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian on Wednesday called on the United States to handle the Taiwan issue with the utmost caution.

    Speaking at a press conference, Zhu Fenglian once again reiterated that the Taiwan issue remains the most crucial of all issues affecting China’s core interests and is a red line that must never be crossed in Sino-US relations.

    She demanded that the US side strictly adhere to the one-China principle, abide by the provisions of the three Sino-US joint communiques, stop sending a false signal to the “Taiwan independence” forces, and prevent the very small number of “Taiwan independence” supporters from undermining the overall trend of Sino-US relations.

    Zhu Fenglian also criticized the Democratic Progressive Party administration in Taiwan and separatist forces for adhering to the “Taiwan independence” stance and colluding with external forces in provocative attempts to achieve “independence.”

    “These are the root causes of tension and instability in the Taiwan Strait region,” she said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Chinese Vice Premier Calls on US to Resolve Trade Disputes with China Through Dialogue, Cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    LONDON, June 11 (Xinhua) — The United States should resolve trade disputes with China through equal dialogue and win-win cooperation, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has said.

    The Chinese side reaffirms that the United States should work with China to match its words with deeds, demonstrate sincerity in fulfilling commitments and concrete efforts to implement consensus, so as to jointly uphold the hard-won results of the dialogue, he said.

    He made the remarks during the first meeting of the China-US Economic and Trade Consultations Mechanism, which was held in London from Monday to Tuesday. The US side was represented by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and trade negotiator Jamison Greer. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Safeguarding mental health of academic staff members and students

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ21: Safeguarding mental health of academic staff members and students 
    Question:
     
         The mental health of academic staff members and students in Hong Kong draws societal concern. There are views that the Government should strengthen the protection of their physical and mental health as well as to provide appropriate support services to the families of suicide victims concerned. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the respective numbers of academic staff members and students committing suicide and attempting to commit suicide in each of the past five years and, among them, the numbers of cases in which death inquests were held, together with a breakdown by types of school (i.e. (i) primary school, (ii) secondary school and (iii) university);
     
    (2) of the Government’s follow-up and support procedures in respect of cases of suicide attempts among academic staff members and students, including the policy bureaux involved, the category of professionals providing support services in those cases and the areas and extent of intervention, as well as details of the support services provided by them; and
     
    (3) in respect of the suicide cases mentioned in (1), whether the Government has provided support services (e.g. professional emotional counselling services) to the families, relatives and friends of the suicide victims; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; primarily which government departments’ staff members to provide assistance to the families of suicide victims and inform them of their rights under the law (including the rights of the families to request for holding a death inquest)?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Education Bureau (EDB) attaches great importance to the mental health of teachers and students, and has all along been encouraging schools to adopt the Whole School Approach. Through cross-departmental, cross-disciplinary and cross-sector collaboration, the EDB enhances the mental health of teachers and students and provides enhanced support for students with mental health needs (including those with suicidal risk) via various measures and activities directed at three levels, namely Universal, Selective and Indicated. In recent years, the EDB has implemented a number of measures to support students’ mental health. This includes implementing the “4Rs Mental Health Charter” in the 2024/25 school year, with a view to helping students develop healthy living habits and positive interpersonal relationships, and enhancing their resilience. In addition, starting from the 2023/24 school year, the EDB has launched the Mental Health Literacy Resource Packages suitable for students at different learning stages. In consultation with the Social Welfare Department (SWD), our reply to the question raised by the Hon Lillian Kwok is as follows:
     
    (1) and (2) The EDB has all along required primary and secondary schools to report fatal suspected student suicide cases. The numbers of relevant cases in primary and secondary schools in the past five years (2020 to 2024) are tabulated as follows. Of the cases reported, secondary students accounted for about 91 per cent of the total cases, while primary students accounted for about 9 per cent. 
     

    Year     The EDB does not collect data on fatal suspected suicide cases of school personnel, attempted suicides of students, relevant cases of university students and number of death inquests held.
     
         We continue to strengthen the identification of and support for students with mental health risks. For example, the EDB organises about 40 additional thematic teacher training workshops in the 2024/25 school year to introduce the practical skills, counselling techniques and intervention strategies in supporting students with mental health needs, as well as organises parent education talk series for parents of primary and secondary school students that cover topics related to the mental health of children.
     
         Regarding support measures, if schools suspect the students having suicidal risk, schools will arrange school guidance personnel (for example, student guidance teacher/student guidance personnel or school social worker) for early support. If necessary, schools will solicit professional support from the school-based educational psychologists, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, medical, or police officers to ensure that appropriate intervention measures will be taken. To enhance cross-sector collaboration, starting from December 2023, the Government has implemented the Three-tier School-based Emergency Mechanism in all secondary schools in Hong Kong by pooling together the schools’ multi-disciplinary teams, the off-campus support network and medical services. The implementation of the Mechanism has been extended till the end of 2025 and related arrangements were enhanced.
     
         Furthermore, the Government established a cross-departmental referral and collaboration mechanism in April 2024. For instance, when police officers handle attempted suicide cases concerning primary and secondary students that happen outside schools, the Police will, upon obtaining the consent from the student concerned and the parent/guardian, refer the case to the school the student is attending, via the EDB, for support services. If the student and parent/guardian wish to receive support services from other organisation(s), the SWD will refer the case for services provided by other social services units, such as Integrated Family Service Centres (IFSCs), Integrated Community Centres for Mental Wellness, and Integrated Children and Youth Services Centres. Schools or relevant social welfare organisations will provide students with emergency intervention services, such as assessments, support and counselling through individual, group or online mode.
     
         Regarding support for teachers’ physical and psychological well-being, the EDB has set up the Teachers’ Helpline since 2006 to support teachers in coping with stress at work and mental health problems. Apart from this, professional counselling services and face-to-face counselling will be provided as and when necessary, and professionals will be arranged to follow up relevant cases. Meanwhile, the service providers will organise talks on how to relieve stress for teachers. In addition, starting from the 2023/24 school year, the EDB has commissioned non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or tertiary institutions to organise courses on physical and mental health for teachers every year, covering topics on mental health, expressive arts, mindfulness and physical health, to enhance teachers’ capacity at work.
     
    (3) The SWD subvents The Samaritan Befrienders Hong Kong to operate the Suicide Crisis Intervention Centre (SCIC), which offers immediate crisis intervention and in-depth counselling services for persons in need. The SCIC also renders support services to persons affected by suicidal behaviours (including familes and friends), including consultation hotline, groups, talks and workshops. Moreover, 67 territory-wide IFSCs (including two Integrated Service Centres), operated by the SWD or subvented NGOs also provide appropriate service and assistance for the families and relatives of suicide victims, including financial assistance, counselling service, and connection with community resources.
    Issued at HKT 18:56

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: NVIDIA Partners With Novo Nordisk and DCAI to Advance Drug Discovery

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PARIS, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NVIDIA GTC Paris at VivaTech — NVIDIA today announced a collaboration with Novo Nordisk to accelerate drug discovery efforts through innovative AI use cases. The work supports Novo Nordisk’s agreement with DCAI to use the Gefion sovereign AI supercomputer.

    The companies aim to create customized AI models and agents that Novo Nordisk can use for early research and clinical development and to apply advanced simulation and physical AI technologies.

    “AI is essential for every industry, and there’s no other field that will benefit more from acceleration than drug discovery,” said Rory Kelleher, senior director of business development for life sciences at NVIDIA. “Working with Novo Nordisk, we’re advancing critical R&D applications with fundamental tools that can harness the full potential of generative and agentic AI to improve pharmaceutical development.”

    Novo Nordisk Taps Advanced AI to Accelerate Innovation
    DCAI’s Gefion supercomputer, powered by NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD™, provides Novo Nordisk an AI factory for running drug discovery and agentic AI workloads. Novo Nordisk will use NVIDIA BioNeMo™ for generative AI-powered drug discovery, NVIDIA NIM™ and NVIDIA NeMo™ microservices for building customized agentic workflows, and the NVIDIA Omniverse™ platform to create physically accurate simulation environments for developing physical AI applications.

    Novo Nordisk researchers will focus on several AI research programs, including using single-cell models to predict cellular responses to drug candidates and structures, as well as designing models to build molecules with drug-like properties. The companies will also collaborate on tapping Novo Nordisk’s vast global scientific literature to build biomedical large language models, enabling researchers to uncover correlations between genes, proteins and diseases.

    “By coupling NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platform and expertise with Novo’s deep expertise in life sciences research and development, we aim to build custom models that will aid our scientists in developing new medicines faster and more efficiently,” said Mishal Patel, senior vice president, AI and digital innovation at Novo Nordisk. “Gefion will allow us to run experiments at an unprecedented scale.”

    Advancing Denmark’s Healthcare Ecosystem
    DCAI owns and operates Gefion, Denmark’s flagship AI supercomputer. DCAI is helping lower the barrier for accessing advanced computing capabilities and enabling companies in Denmark to pursue research and development across healthcare and drug discovery.

    “With Gefion’s computational power, we can tackle the toughest R&D challenges, with the ultimate goal of unlocking new possibilities for pharmaceutical research and development,” said Nadia Carlsten, CEO of DCAI. “By combining Gefion’s capabilities with NVIDIA’s expertise, our customers can accelerate innovation even further.”

    Gefion has already been used by multiple customers to advance healthcare and drug discovery.

    Teton, a Danish startup and member of the NVIDIA Inception program for cutting-edge startups, is tapping into Gefion to accelerate the development of its AI care companion for hospitals, using cameras and sensors installed in patient rooms to create real-time 3D digital twins. This allows nurses to monitor patients remotely and receive alerts about potential health issues. Teton’s technology aims to reduce workload burden on nurses — freeing them up for higher-value tasks — and improve patient care, with early trials showing up to a 25% reduction in nightshift duties.

    Last month, DCAI announced that one of the first pharma companies to use Gefion will tap the supercomputer to accelerate drug discovery and development in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Another venture-backed company is using Gefion to accelerate the development of oral alternatives to widely used biologics and to target proteins that are currently difficult or impossible to drug with available compounds.

    Gefion will also be used as part of an effort by Danish health organizations to unite previously siloed health data into a single national analysis platform, which will provide researchers with secure access to interconnected health data. Along with supercomputing resources, this will make it easier to analyze large datasets, identify disease patterns earlier and develop more personalized treatments.

    Watch the NVIDIA GTC Paris keynote from NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang at VivaTech, and explore GTC Paris sessions.

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

    For further information, contact:
    Janette Ciborowski
    Enterprise Communications
    NVIDIA Corporation
    +1-734-330-8817
    jciborowski@nvidia.com

    Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements as to: working with Novo Nordisk, NVIDIA advancing critical R&D applications with fundamental tools that can harness the full potential of generative and agentic AI to improve pharmaceutical development; the benefits, impact, performance, and availability of NVIDIA’s products, services, and technologies; expectations with respect to NVIDIA’s third party arrangements, including with its collaborators and partners; expectations with respect to technology developments; and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to management and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to be materially different than expectations. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include: global economic and political conditions; NVIDIA’s reliance on third parties to manufacture, assemble, package and test NVIDIA’s products; the impact of technological development and competition; development of new products and technologies or enhancements to NVIDIA’s existing product and technologies; market acceptance of NVIDIA’s products or NVIDIA’s partners’ products; design, manufacturing or software defects; changes in consumer preferences or demands; changes in industry standards and interfaces; unexpected loss of performance of NVIDIA’s products or technologies when integrated into systems; and changes in applicable laws and regulations, as well as other factors detailed from time to time in the most recent reports NVIDIA files with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including, but not limited to, its annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Copies of reports filed with the SEC are posted on the company’s website and are available from NVIDIA without charge. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, NVIDIA disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92c0c3db-28ea-43c7-b0d5-9ac3b350edaf

    The MIL Network –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax® ETFs Announces Distributions on SNOY, ULTY, TSMY, CRSH, YMAX and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Important Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

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

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

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to CHPY)

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

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

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

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

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

    © 2025 YieldMax® ETFs

    The MIL Network –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL PLC – 10 06 2025] – (CGAML)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
    N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    10 JUNE 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.2p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,436,500 3.3956    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 1,436,500 3.3956    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.2p ORDINARY SALE 33,000 3050p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.
    Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 11 JUNE 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    June 11, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Danforth Advisors Establishes Danforth Market Access Division, Appoints Scotty Bowman as Managing Director

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Danforth Advisors, LLC today announced the launch of Danforth Market Access & Value, a dedicated U.S. practice that deepens the firm’s ability to help life-science innovators secure timely, sustainable patient access to their therapies. In conjunction with the launch, veteran market-access executive Scotty Bowman has joined the company as Managing Director to lead the new division.

    Danforth Market Access & Value delivers end-to-end market-access and payer consulting services—from patient-support programs and journey mapping to strategic payer engagement, pricing, reimbursement and launch planning—removing access barriers and aligning stakeholders so that breakthrough therapies reach patients faster and more efficiently.​​ The practice combines more than 40 years of collective pharmaceutical and biotech market-access expertise, including proven payer strategies, pricing excellence and successful product launches across multiple therapeutic categories.​​

    “With capital constraints heightening the need for flawless market-access execution, launching Danforth Market Access & Value was a natural next step for us. Scotty’s track record of translating complex payer dynamics into clear paths to coverage makes him the ideal leader for this practice,” said Chris Connors, CEO of Danforth Advisors. “By integrating payer strategy alongside our existing finance, clinical-operations and communications offerings, we can now support clients from discovery through full commercial value realization.”

    “I’ve long admired Danforth’s mission-critical role in helping emerging biotechs scale,” said Scotty Bowman. “I’m excited to build a best-in-class market access team that secures optimal coverage and reimbursement while reducing the operational burden on growing companies.”

    Bowman brings more than two decades of experience in U.S. and global market access, most recently serving as President and Founder of Market Access GTN, LLC. He has led pricing, contracting and payer-strategy functions for multiple successful product launches and holds an MSJ from Seton Hall Law School. Additional team hires for Danforth Market Access & Value will be announced in the coming weeks.

    About Danforth Advisors

    Danforth is the life science industry’s trusted partner for strategic and operational support across business, clinical, and commercial functions. The company advises and executes in the areas of finance and accounting, strategic communications, human resources, risk management, clinical and regulatory, market research, and commercial readiness and launch. Founded in 2011, Danforth has partnered with more than 1,500 life science companies, private and public, across all stages of the corporate lifecycle. The company serves clients around the globe from its base in Waltham, Massachusetts and regional operations in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, California, and London. Additional information is available at www.danforthadvisors.com. 

    Media contact:
    Argot Partners
    (212) 600-1902

    The MIL Network –

    June 11, 2025
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