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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Cooperation is humanity’s greatest innovation,’ UN chief declares at BRICS summit

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Speaking at the 17th BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he emphasised the human impact of environmental devastation and climate change.  And as environmental disasters increase, the sustainable development goals are also being left behind.  

    “Across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters as disasters accelerate,” Mr. Guterres said. 

    “The impact on human health is atrocious… The vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price.” 

    BRICS was founded by Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2006. South Africa joined in 2011 and Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates joined the group since. Collectively, these eleven States represent over half of the world’s population and approximately one-third of the world’s GDP.  

    Artificial intelligence must benefit all

    On Sunday, Mr. Guterres addressed a session on strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence, where he called for efforts to “minimize the risks and maximize the potential” of the breakthrough technology.

    “Artificial intelligence is reshaping economies and societies. The fundamental test is how wisely we will guide this transformation, how we minimize the risks and maximize the potential for good,” he said.  

    To maximize the potential, the Secretary-General argued that AI cannot be “a club of the few but must benefit all,” calling for the “real voice” of developing countries to be included in global AI governance.

    He also said that human rights and equity must be the guiding principles which shape any international governance structure for AI.  

    “We cannot govern AI effectively – and fairly – without confronting deeper, structural imbalances in our global system,” he said.  

    Collaboration is key

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed the need for peace amid conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and Myanmar.

    He called for urgent reform of global institutions, noting that bodies like the Security Council and international financial systems were “were designed for a bygone age, a bygone world, with a bygone system of power relations.”

    “The reform of the Security Council is crucial,” he said, highlighting also calls from the recent financing for development conference in Sevilla.

    Priorities include greater voice for developing countries in global governance, effective debt restructuring, and tripling multilateral bank lending – especially in concessional and local-currency terms.

    Call for reform

    Mr. Guterrs concluded his remarks highlighting the power of cooperation and trust.

    “At a time when multilateralism is being undermined, let us remind the world that cooperation is humanity’s greatest innovation,” he said.

    “Let us rise to this moment – and reform and modernize multilateralism, including the UN and all the systems and institutions to make it work for everyone, everywhere.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province boosts tax credit for game developers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation –

    “B.C.’s digital sector and gaming industry ranges from massive corporations to small, dedicated teams. We are building an ecosystem where everyone can thrive and compete globally. With this increased tax credit, our groundbreaking Integrated Marketplace Initiative, and events like Web Summit Vancouver, we’re securing B.C.’s position as a global hub for innovation, talent and creative excellence in interactive entertainment.”

    Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport –

    “Our game developers have made many smash hits and beautiful works of art that are well-known in the industry and around the world. With this strengthened tax credit, more of your favourite games are about to be made in B.C., creating jobs and boosting our economy.”

    Loc Dao, executive director, DigiBC –

    “The permanent increase to the interactive digital media tax credit demonstrates the Province’s commitment to being a global leader in creative technology and a premier destination for interactive-digital-media investment and talent. This change will help accelerate the growth of the industry in B.C., enabling our companies to make long-term strategic decisions and attracts international studios looking for stable, supportive environments.”

    Remy Siu, founder and creative director, Sunset Visitor –

    “B.C. interactive digital media tax credit (IDMTC) was a crucial part of making 1000xRESIST a reality. It helped us reach the finish line when resources were scarce. We couldn’t be happier to see the increases to the credit going forward. It allows us to continue to find, support and highlight local B.C. talent.”

    Heidy Motta, COO, Coldblood Inc. –

    “The increase of the IDMTC to 25% makes a real difference for indie studios like ours. It helps us keep working on Neverway and focus on delivering the best experience we can to players. Support like this is a big reason why Canada has such a strong presence in the global game industry.”

    Raphael van Lierop, founder and creative director, Hinterland –

    “This makes a big difference for independent studios with significant development staff in B.C., like Hinterland, as we work on Blackfrost, the sequel to The Long Dark. I appreciate the leadership shown by Brenda Bailey, herself a former game developer, in continuing to push this program forward over the past several years. It’s had a huge impact and helps keep B.C. competitive in this globally significant industry that has such tremendous cultural relevance.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Repeat Sex Trafficker Is Sentenced To 27 Years In Prison

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Defendant Recruited the Underage Victim While on Federal Supervision for Sex Trafficking a Minor

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Yusef Reynolds, 34, formerly of Delaware, was sentenced today to 27 years in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for sex trafficking of a minor by force, fraud, or coercion, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Reynolds was on supervised release for a prior federal sex trafficking conviction in Delaware when he met and lured the underage victim, forcing her to engage in commercial sex.

    James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, and Chief Johnny Jennings, of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.

    “Today’s lengthy sentence is appropriate for a defendant who while on supervised release for sex trafficking a minor engaged in the same behavior—using violence and physical abuse to control a minor and force her to engage in sexual acts for his profit,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson.  “I am proud of the hard work of my office to protect children and hold accountable those who prey on them.”

    “After serving federal prison time for sex trafficking an underage girl, Yusef Reynolds went right back to his predatory ways. Once again, he lured a victim through social media and exploited her for his own profit. The FBI will continue to work with our partners and prioritize punishing those who abuse children,” said Special Agent in Charge Barnacle.

    According to court documents, in 2012, Reynolds was convicted of federal charges for sex trafficking a minor and illegal possession of firearms in Delaware and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Reynolds was released in 2021 and was placed under federal supervision. Court records show that, from December 2021 through January 2022, while on federal supervised release, Reynolds sex trafficked a 16-year-old runaway from Massachusetts he met online. According to court documents, Reynolds used Facebook to contact the minor, who at the time was in North Carolina. Using promises of a better life to lure the victim, Reynolds convinced her to join him in Delaware even though he knew the victim was underage.

    Filed court documents show that Reynolds sent two other individuals to pick up the minor victim and bring her to Delaware. Once there, Reynolds immediately began to sex traffic the minor. Reynolds took pictures of the minor and posted them on a website advertising for commercial sex. After that, Reynolds, either himself or through other individuals he knew or controlled, booked commercial sex appointments for the victim and took all the money the victim earned from the sexual encounters. During that time, Reynolds used a combination of physical and sexual violence, threats, and verbal abuse to force the victim to engage in commercial sex acts and plied the victim with drugs to further coerce her to continue to engage in the commercial sex trade.

    On March 29, 2024, Reynolds pleaded guilty to sex trafficking of a minor by force, fraud, or coercion. He will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

    In making the announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson credited the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force for its investigative work and thanked CMPD and the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, both task force members, for their coordination and partnership with the FBI, which led to today’s outcome. FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Forces operate in nearly every FBI field office. The most effective way to investigate human trafficking is through a collaborative, multi-agency approach among federal, state, local, and tribal partners. The ultimate goal of the task forces is to recover victims and investigate traffickers at the state and federal level.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Spaugh of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: National Bank Holdings Corporation Announces Date for 2025 Second Quarter Earnings Release

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — National Bank Holdings Corporation (NYSE: NBHC) expects to report its second quarter financial results after the markets close on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Management will host a conference call to review the results at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Interested parties may listen to this call by dialing (877) 400-0505 using the participant passcode of 9935135 and asking for the NBHC Q2 2025 Earnings Call. A recording of the call will be available approximately four hours after the call’s completion on the Company’s website at www.nationalbankholdings.com by visiting the investor relations area.

    About National Bank Holdings Corporation

    National Bank Holdings Corporation is a bank holding company created to build a leading community bank franchise delivering high quality client service and committed to stakeholder results. Through its bank subsidiaries, NBH Bank and Bank of Jackson Hole Trust, National Bank Holdings Corporation operates a network of over 85 banking centers, serving individual consumers, small, medium and large businesses, and government and non-profit entities. Its banking centers are located in its core footprint of Colorado, the greater Kansas City region, Utah, Wyoming, Texas, New Mexico and Idaho. Its comprehensive residential mortgage banking group primarily serves the bank’s core footprint. Its trust business is operated in its core footprint under the Bank of Jackson Hole Trust charter. NBH Bank operates under a single state charter through the following brand names as divisions of NBH Bank: in Colorado, Community Banks of Colorado and Community Banks Mortgage; in Kansas and Missouri, Bank Midwest and Bank Midwest Mortgage; in Utah, Texas, New Mexico and Idaho, Hillcrest Bank and Hillcrest Bank Mortgage; and in Wyoming, Bank of Jackson Hole and Bank of Jackson Hole Mortgage. Additional information about National Bank Holdings Corporation can be found at www.nationalbankholdings.com.

    For more information visit: cobnks.com, bankmw.com, hillcrestbank.com, bankofjacksonhole.com, or nbhbank.com. Or connect with any of our brands on LinkedIn.

    Contact:  
    Analysts/Institutional Investors: Media:
    Emily Gooden, 720-554-6640 Jody Soper, 303-784-5925
    Chief Accounting Officer and Investor Relations Director Chief Marketing Officer
    ir@nationalbankholdings.com Jody.Soper@nbhbank.com
       
    Nicole Van Denabeele, 720-529-3370  
    Chief Financial Officer  
    ir@nationalbankholdings.com  
       

    Source: National Bank Holdings Corporation

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Norwood Financial Corp Extends its Pennsylvania Presence with Strategic Acquisition of PB Bankshares, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONESDALE, Pa. and COATESVILLE, Pa., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Norwood Financial Corp (“Norwood Financial”) (NASDAQ: NWFL), headquartered in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, and PB Bankshares, Inc. (“Presence”) (NASDAQ: PBBK), headquartered in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, jointly announced today that both companies’ boards of directors have unanimously approved an agreement and plan of merger (the “Agreement”) pursuant to which Presence will merge with and into Norwood.

    Norwood Financial is the bank holding company for Wayne Bank, which operates 30 banking offices in Pennsylvania and New York. As of March 31, 2025, Norwood Financial had consolidated assets of $2.4 billion. Presence is the bank holding company for Presence Bank, which operates four banking offices, one loan production office and one administration office in Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Presence had assets of $467 million as of March 31, 2025. In connection with the merger of the holding companies, Presence’s subsidiary, Presence Bank, will be merged into Wayne Bank. The combined company will have approximately $3.0 billion in assets and will be a premier Pennsylvania community bank operating in Northeastern, Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania.

    This strategic combination represents a substantial expansion of Norwood Financial’s geographic footprint into higher growth markets in Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania, while enhancing Presence Bank’s capacity to provide exceptional service and solutions to its existing customers in the markets it serves.

    A joint announcement of the transaction was made today by James O. Donnelly, President, CEO and Director of Norwood Financial, and Janak M. Amin, President, CEO and Director of Presence. Mr. Donnelly stated, “I am very pleased to announce our merger with Presence Bank, a nearly 106-year-old institution which shares the same values, culture, and commitment to high quality customer service found at Wayne Bank.” He continued, “Presence is a growing and respected institution located within the most demographically attractive markets in Pennsylvania. Joining these institutions provides Wayne Bank with the opportunity to deepen Presence Bank’s relationships with its customers, given our broader product mix and larger balance sheet. We look forward to working with Janak and his team to improve the financial lives of the businesses and individuals operating in Presence Bank’s communities.”

    “We are equally excited for this strategic partnership and the opportunity to gain market share in Central and Southeastern Pennsylvania” commented Mr. Amin who will be joining Wayne Bank as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer upon closing of the transaction. “We have admired the leadership of Jim and his team, the similar culture and values we share, and the reputation of Wayne Bank as a premier Pennsylvania-based community bank. This combination will provide our customers and communities with greater access to additional products and services. This will result in an enhanced customer experience for our commercial base and the opportunity to augment the retail portion of our business with their product set and consumer verticals.”   

    Under the terms of the merger agreement, 80% of Presence’s common shares will be converted into Norwood Financial common stock while the remaining 20% will be exchanged for cash. Presence’s shareholders will have the option to elect to receive either 0.7850 shares of Norwood Financial common stock or $19.75 in cash for each common share of Presence they own. The election is subject to proration to ensure that, in the aggregate, 80% of the transaction consideration will be paid in the form of Norwood Financial common stock. All options to purchase Presence’s common stock will be cashed out upon completion of the merger. Based on the closing price $26.65 for Norwood Financial Common Stock on July 3, 2025, the transaction would have an aggregate value of approximately $54.9 million. The purchase price reflects a multiple of 106.6% of Presence’s March 31, 2025, tangible book value and a 2.3% core deposit premium. Following completion of the transaction, Presence shareholders who elect to receive common stock share consideration will receive a quarterly cash dividend equal to approximately $0.24 per Norwood Financial share of common stock based on Norwood Financial’s current quarterly dividend of $0.31 per share of common stock. This dividend reflects a yield of 3.6% based on Norwood Financial’s closing price of $26.65 on July 3, 2025.

    Holders of Presence’s common stock prior to the consummation of the merger will own approximately 14% of Norwood Financial’s common stock outstanding immediately following the completion of the merger. The merger is expected to be approximately 10% accretive to earnings per share in 2026, while resulting in 4.2% tangible book value dilution as of the closing date and a tangible book value earn back of 2.5 years.

    The parties have agreed that two non-employee Presence Bank board members will be joining the Norwood Financial and Wayne Bank boards, with one member joining for a term of two years and the other joining for three years. Concurrent with the entering into of the Agreement, Presence President and CEO, Janak M. Amin, entered into an Employment Agreement and a Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation agreement with Norwood Financial and Wayne Bank. In addition, selected Presence executives are expected to continue employment with Norwood Financial moving forward.

    The merger is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of customary regulatory approvals and approval by Presence’s shareholders. It is expected that the transaction will close in either late 4th quarter of 2025 or early 1st quarter of 2026.

    Janney Montgomery Scott LLC is serving as financial advisor and rendered a fairness opinion to Norwood Financial and Jones Walker LLP, Washington, DC, and Meeks Butera & Israel PLLC are serving as Norwood Financial’s legal counsel. Stephens Inc. is serving as financial advisor and rendered a fairness opinion to Presence and Barley Snyder LLP is serving as Presence’s legal counsel.

    About Norwood Financial Corp

    Norwood Financial Corp, through its subsidiary, Wayne Bank operates sixteen offices in Northeastern Pennsylvania and fourteen offices in Delaware, Sullivan, Ontario, Otsego and Yates Counties, New York. As of March 31, 2025, Norwood Financial had total assets of $2.4 billion, loans outstanding of $1.8 billion, total deposits of $2.0 billion and total equity capital of $221 million. The Company’s stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “NWFL”.

    About PB Bankshares, Inc.

    PB Bankshares, Inc. is the holding company for Presence Bank. Presence Bank was founded in 1919 and currently operates four banking offices and one loan production office in Chester, Lancaster and Dauphin Counties, Pennsylvania.

    Cautionary Notes on Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about (i) the benefits of the merger between Norwood Financial and Presence, including anticipated future results, cost savings and accretion to reported earnings that may be realized from the merger; (ii) Norwood Financial and Presence’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements contained in this presentation that are not historical facts; and (iii) other statements identified by words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” or words of similar meaning.

    Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in such statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results expressed in the forward-looking statements: the businesses of Norwood Financial and Presence may not be combined successfully, or such combination may take longer than expected; the cost savings from the merger may not be fully realized or may take longer than expected; operating costs, customer loss and business disruption following the merger may be greater than expected; governmental approvals of the merger may not be obtained, or adverse regulatory conditions may be imposed in connection with governmental approvals of the merger or otherwise; the stockholders of Presence may fail to approve the merger; the interest rate environment may further compress margins and adversely affect new interest income; the risks associated with continued diversification of assets and adverse changes to credit quality; and difficulties associated with achieving expected future financial results. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in Norwood Financial’s reports (such as the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the proposed transaction or other matters attributable to Norwood Financial or Presence or any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. Except as required by law, Norwood Financial and Presence do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statement is made.

    Additional Information about the Proposed Transaction

    Norwood Financial intends to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 relating to the proposed merger, which will include a prospectus for the offer and sale of Norwood Financial common stock as well as the proxy statement of Presence for the solicitation of proxies from its shareholders for use at the meeting at which the merger will be considered. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. SHAREHOLDERS OF PRESENCE ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS REGARDING THE MERGER WHEN IT BECOMES AVAILABLE, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. You may obtain a free copy of the registration statement, including the proxy statement/prospectus (when it becomes available) and other relevant documents filed by Norwood Financial with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and the filings with the SEC that will be incorporated by reference in the proxy statement/prospectus can also be obtained, free of charge, by directing a request to Norwood Financial Corp, 717 Main Street, Honesdale, Pennsylvania 18431, attention: John M. McCaffery (570) 253-1455, or PB Bankshares, Inc., 185 East Lincoln Highway, Coatesville, Pennsylvania 19320, attention: Mackenzie Jackson, Corporate Secretary, (610) 384-8282.

    Norwood Financial, Presence and their respective directors and executive officers may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed to be “participants” in the solicitation of proxies from shareholders of Presence in connection with the proposed merger. Information concerning the interests of the persons who may be considered “participants” in the solicitation will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the Transaction. Information concerning Norwood Financial’s directors and executive officers, including their ownership of Norwood Financial common stock, is set forth in its proxy statement previously filed with the SEC on March 18, 2025. Additional information regarding the interests of such potential participants will be included in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed with the SEC when they become available. You may obtain free copies of these documents from Norwood Financial or Presence using the sources indicated above.

    No Offer or Solicitation

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

    For more Information please contact:

    Norwood Financial Corp.
    John M. McCaffery
    EVP & Chief Financial Officer
    (570) 253-1455

    PB Bankshares, Inc.
    Janak M. Amin
    President & CEO
    (610) 384-8282        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aterian Announces Exclusive Prime Day Deals Across Six Leading Brands

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUMMIT, N.J., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER), a consumer products company, today unveiled its Prime Day lineup offering limited-time deals of up to 36% off top-rated products across six of its premier e-commerce brands—hOmeLabs, Squatty Potty, PurSteam, Mueller Living, Healing Solutions, and Photo Paper Direct—bringing must-have home upgrades, wellness essentials, culinary aids, and premium printable fabrics to savvy shoppers this summer.

    Shoppers can take advantage of these exclusive limited-time savings on top-rated items, from smart dehumidifiers and ergonomic stools to steam-powered cleaning tools, versatile kitchen gadgets, therapeutic oils, and printable fabric sheets. Prime Day deals run from July 8th through July 11th—while supplies last.

    hOmeLabs creates home-comfort appliances that blend high performance with sleek, modern design—helping make everyday living healthier and more efficient.

    Featured sale products include:

    • hOmeLabs 50-Pint Dehumidifier (Wi-Fi Enabled): 21% Off (Originally: $269.99 // Sale Price: $212.49). Removes up to 120 pints of moisture per day, offers ultra-quiet operation, auto-restart, reusable filter, and full smartphone control via built-in Wi-Fi.
    • hOmeLabs 8-Pint Dehumidifier (Wi-Fi Enabled): 15% Off (Originally: $179.99 // Sale Price: $152.99). Removes up to 24 pints of moisture per day, offers ultra-quiet operation, auto-restart, reusable filter, and full smartphone control via built-in Wi-Fi.

    Visit hOmeLabs’ Amazon store to shop this deal and explore many more Prime Day savings.

    hOmeLabs Brand Store Link

    Squatty Potty revolutionizes bathroom ergonomics with its patented toilet stools—designed to promote a natural “squat” posture for faster, more complete elimination and improved digestive health.

    Featured sale products include:

    • Squatty Potty Simple Stool: 32% Off (Originally: $24.99 // Sale Price: $16.99).
      Lightweight, stackable under most toilets, with a durable, high-gloss finish—elevates your feet into the optimal position to reduce strain and support digestive wellness.

    Head to Squatty Potty’s Prime Day page to grab this offer and discover more discounts.

    Squatty Potty Brand Store Link

    PurSteam delivers powerful, reliable home-care solutions—from steam irons, steam mops and handheld steamers—that simplify chores while safeguarding fabrics and surfaces.

    Featured sale products include:

    • PurSteam 1750W Steam Iron: 19% Off (Originally: $49.99 // Sale Price: $40.36).
      1750 W rapid heat-up, continuous steam output, non-stick ceramic soleplate, plus a vertical-steam option for hanging garments.
    • PurSteam Therma Pro 211 V4 Steam Mop: 11% Off (Originally: $89.99 // Sale Price: $79.99). Chemical-free sanitizing steam for hard floors and area rugs, 360° swivel steering, and washable microfiber pads.

    Shop these PurSteam deals and uncover many more Prime Day offers on their Amazon storefront. Click the link below and navigate to the All Deals or Prime Days tab.

    PurSteam Brand Store Link

    Mueller Living specializes in small kitchen appliances that pair elegant design with robust functionality—making meal prep faster, easier, and more fun.

    Featured sale product include:

    • Mueller Hand Blender: 32% Off (Originally: $34.99 // Sale Price: $23.73).
      250 W motor with stainless-steel blades, two-speed control, ergonomic handle, plus whisk and chopping attachments for soups, sauces, and more.

    Browse Mueller Living’s Prime Day deals to seize this offer and explore additional savings.

    MuellerLiving Brand Store Link

    Healing Solutions, our collection of oil brands offers natural, plant-based wellness products formulated to support everyday health and comfort.

    Featured sale product include:

    • LAB BULK Eucalyptus Essential Oil, 16 oz: 20% Off (Originally: $26.99 // Sale Price: $21.59). 100% pure eucalyptus oil—ideal for aromatherapy, steam inhalation, and topical blends, supporting respiratory relief and mental clarity.

    Discover this Healing Solutions deal and more wellness essentials on our Prime Day page. Click the link below and navigate to the All Deals or Prime Days tab.

    Healing Solutions Brand Store Link

    Photo Paper Direct creates professional-quality printable media for craft and photo enthusiasts, delivering vibrant, fade-resistant results every time.

    Featured sale product include:

    • PPD Printable Fabric Sheets, 8.5×11″ (10 Sheets): 26% Off (Originally: $14.99 // Sale Price: $11.04). 100% real cotton, matte finish, no watermark—designed for inkjet printers to produce washable, long-lasting fabric prints.

    Shop this Photo Paper Direct offer and browse many more creative media discounts this Prime Day.

    PPD Brand Store Link

    About Aterian, Inc.
    Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) a consumer products company that builds and acquires leading e-commerce brands across multiple categories, including home and kitchen appliances, health and wellness, and air quality devices. The Company sells across the world’s largest online marketplaces, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target as well as its own direct-to-consumer websites. Aterian’s brands include Mueller Living, PurSteam, hOmeLabs, Squatty Potty, Healing Solutions, and Photo Paper Direct. To learn more, visit www.aterian.io.

    Forward Looking Statements
    All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements.. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control and could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to, those related to our ability to continue as a going concern, the effect of tariffs and other costs on our results, our ability to continue to operate following our reduction in workforce, our ability to meet financial covenants with our lenders, our ability to maintain and to grow market share in existing and new product categories; our ability to continue to profitably sell the SKUs we operate; our ability to maintain Amazon’s Prime badge on our seller accounts or reinstate the Prime badge in the event of any removal of such badge by Amazon; our ability to create operating leverage and efficiency when integrating companies that we acquire, including through the use of our team’s expertise, the economies of scale of our supply chain and automation driven by our platform; those related to our ability to grow internationally and through the launch of products under our brands and the acquisition of additional brands; those related to consumer demand, our cash flows, financial condition, forecasting and revenue growth rate; our supply chain including sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing and fulfillment; our ability to manage expenses, working capital and capital expenditures efficiently; our business model and our technology platform; our ability to disrupt the consumer products industry; our ability to generate profitability and stockholder value; international tariffs and trade measures; inventory management, product liability claims, recalls or other safety and regulatory concerns; reliance on third party online marketplaces; seasonal and quarterly variations in our revenue; acquisitions of other companies and technologies and our ability to integrate such companies and technologies with our business; our ability to continue to access debt and equity capital (including on terms advantageous to the Company) and the extent of our leverage; and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), all of which you may obtain for free on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, even if subsequently made available by us on our website or otherwise. We do not undertake any obligation to update, amend or clarify these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    Investor Contact:

    The Equity Group
    Devin Sullivan, Managing Director
    dsullivan@theequitygroup.com

    Conor Rodriguez, Associate
    crodriguez@theequitygroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP Increases Line of Credit Capacity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OMAHA, Neb., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP (NYSE: GHI) (the “Partnership”) announced today that on June 30, 2025, it entered into a Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with five financial institutions for a secured revolving line of credit (the “Acquisition LOC”). The maximum aggregate commitment of the Acquisition LOC is $80 million. Bankers Trust Company is serving as the administrative agent. The Credit Agreement replaces the Partnership’s prior credit agreement with Bankers Trust Company dated August 2021, as amended, that had a maximum commitment of $50 million.

    The Acquisition LOC provides temporary financing for the Partnership’s investment purchases. Advances under the Acquisition LOC are expected to be repaid from the Partnership’s traditional debt financing sources such as Tender Option Bond financing or similar securitization transactions. Outstanding balances on the Acquisition LOC bear interest at Term SOFR plus 2.50%, with an overall floor of 2.60%. The Acquisition LOC has a stated maturity of June 2027, which the Partnership may extend to June 2029 based on customary extension conditions and fees.

    “The $30 million increase in the size of our Acquisition LOC demonstrates our strong relationships with bank lenders and provides the Partnership with additional capacity for effectively managing our capital and liquidity positions,” said Kenneth C. Rogozinski, Chief Executive Officer of the Partnership.

    About Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP

    Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP was formed in 1998 under the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act for the primary purpose of acquiring, holding, selling and otherwise dealing with a portfolio of mortgage revenue bonds which have been issued to provide construction and/or permanent financing for affordable multifamily, seniors and student housing properties. The Partnership is pursuing a business strategy of acquiring additional mortgage revenue bonds and other investments on a leveraged basis. The Partnership expects and believes the interest earned on these mortgage revenue bonds is excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes. The Partnership seeks to achieve its investment growth strategy by investing in additional mortgage revenue bonds and other investments as permitted by its Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement, dated December 5, 2022, taking advantage of attractive financing structures available in the securities market, and entering into interest rate risk management instruments. Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP press releases are available at www.ghiinvestors.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement 

    Information contained in this press release contains “forward-looking statements,” which are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks involving current maturities of our financing arrangements and our ability to renew or refinance such maturities, fluctuations in short-term interest rates, collateral valuations, mortgage revenue bond investment valuations and overall economic and credit market conditions. For a further list and description of such risks, see the reports and other filings made by the Partnership with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to, its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements. The Partnership disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    MEDIA CONTACT:
    Karen Marotta
    Greystone
    212-896-9149
    Karen.Marotta@greyco.com

    INVESTOR CONTACT:
    Andy Grier
    Senior Vice President
    402-952-1235

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bimini Capital Management to Announce Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VERO BEACH, Fla., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bimini Capital Management, Inc. (OTCQB:BMNM) (“Bimini” or the “Company”), today announced that it will release results for the second quarter of 2025 following the close of trading on Thursday, July 31, 2025.

    Earnings Conference Call Details

    An earnings conference call and live audio webcast will be hosted Friday, August 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET. Participants can register and receive dial-in information at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI93827b97dab34b2f8cabd3a04f5bddd5.A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/jgk2gti4 or via the investor relations section of the Company’s website at https://ir.biminicapital.com. An audio archive of the webcast will be available for 30 days after the call.

    About Bimini Capital Management, Inc.

    Bimini Capital Management, Inc. is an asset manager that invests primarily in residential mortgage-related securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae).

    Through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Bimini Advisors Holdings, LLC (“Bimini Advisors”), we serve as the external manager of Orchid Island Capital, Inc. (“Orchid”). Orchid is a publicly-traded real estate investment trust (NYSE: ORC). Orchid is managed to earn returns on the spread between the yield on its assets and its costs, including the interest expense on the funds it borrows. As Orchid’s external manager, Bimini Advisors receives management fees and expense reimbursements for managing Orchid’s investment portfolio and day-to-day operations. Pursuant to the terms of the management agreement, Bimini Advisors provides Orchid with its management team, including its officers, along with appropriate support personnel. Bimini Advisors is at all times subject to the supervision and oversight of Orchid’s board of directors and has only such functions and authority as are delegated to it.

    We also manage the portfolio of our wholly-owned subsidiary, Royal Palm Capital, LLC (“Royal Palm”). Royal Palm is managed with an investment strategy similar to that of Orchid. Bimini Capital Management, Inc. and its subsidiaries are headquartered in Vero Beach, Florida.

    CONTACT:
    Bimini Capital Management, Inc.
    Robert E. Cauley, 772-231-1400
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
    https://ir.biminicapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Electrify Expo Returns to Marymoor Park July 12–13 with Top EV Brands, New Tech and the First Public Lucid Gravity Demos

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Two ticket options available, with general admission starting at $20 and kids 5 and under free
    • Festival runs June 21-22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; tickets available online and in person

    SEATTLE, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Electrify Expo, North America’s largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, is returning to the Pacific Northwest this summer with its signature blend of innovation, thrills, and family-friendly fun. Taking over more than one million square feet at Marymoor Park, the festival will feature hands-on demo experiences with the latest in EVs, plug-in hybrids, e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards and more. Unique for Seattle, Lucid will bring a fleet of its brand-new Lucid Gravity SUV, available for public demos for the first time – an experience previously exclusive to reservation holders.

    Washington continues to lead electrification efforts, ranking third in the nation for EV market share according to the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. As of 2024, the state is home to 223,995 registered electric vehicles – a 35% jump from 2023 and a 254% increase over the past five years. The Seattle metro area remains the epicenter, with more than 113,000 EVs on the road in King County supported by one of the country’s most expansive public charging networks.

    “Seattle’s tech-savvy, environmentally conscious community makes it one of the most exciting markets for EV adoption right now,” said BJ Birtwell, CEO and founder of Electrify Expo. “We’re seeing growing interest from curious consumers who want to experience EVs firsthand before taking the leap. Electrify Expo delivers that lightbulb moment by offering exciting experiences for attendees to discover the benefits of going electric.”

    Popular Attractions for Seattle:

    • For the first time ever, Lucid will offer consumer demo drives of its Gravity SUV. Following the vehicle’s Seattle debut at last year’s Electrify Expo event, attendees will now have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of Lucid’s luxury three-row electric SUV.
    • Tesla will offer extended EV test drives via Electrify Expos’ Weekender program where attendees can take their EV of choice home and experience how it fits in their everyday life.
    • The Electric Freestyle Motocross Stunt Zone will feature X Games Gold Medalist Destin Cantrell and his freestyle MX team, who will jump and soar with electric dirt bikes in thrilling live performances at select times over the weekend.
    • The Pivotal Helix, an eVTOL personal aircraft, will make its Seattle debut and be on display for attendees to experience the future of transportation with SoFly.
    • Attendees can experience the latest in electric mobility with hands-on demos of cutting-edge e-bikes and high-speed electric bikes from leading brands.
    • Get behind the wheel of the latest electric vehicles—models not yet available in dealer showrooms—on real on-road test tracks for an unparalleled hands-on experience.

    Ride and Drive experiences are the cornerstone of Electrify Expo. Thrilling, real-world demo rides take places on Marymoor Park property and head out into the city of Redmond to give attendees fun behind-the-wheel experiences in the most popular EV brands like:

    • Lucid
    • Ford
    • Lexus
    • Tesla
    • Porsche
    • Toyota
    • Kia

    Explore the hottest e-bikes, e-scooters, e-motorcycles and other rideables on the market, including:

    • ONYX Motors
    • Can-Am
    • P-51 Bikes
    • E-Z-GO
    • GoTrax
    • Terra Bikes
    • Dryft
    • AIMA
    • Ghostcat

    Electrify Expo’s gates will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13, 2025, with the full day of festivities concluding at 5 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase in person and online.

    For the 2025 Seattle festival, Electrify Expo will offer two ticket options to suit every attendee’s needs:

    • General Admission ($20): Full-day access to all festival zones and demo courses from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Power Pack ($99): Includes early entry at 9 a.m., VIP lounge access, exclusive priority lanes for demo rides and dedicated entry for a premium all-day experience.

    Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@skyya.com. Companies interested in exhibiting at the 2025 Electrify Expo locations can visit https://www.electrifyexpo.com/partner-registration.

    About Electrify Expo
    Electrify Expo is North America’s largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, where consumers come to shop and experience all things electric. The festival showcases the industry’s leading brands and exciting startups through hands-on activations, demos and experiences spanning EVs, micromobility, solar energy, charging solutions, powersports, automotive aftermarket, and connected home technology, providing attendees with immersive learning opportunities and memorable interactions. From high-powered demo courses to engaging education zones, Electrify Expo offers a unique festival vibe for consumers to reshape what they think they know about EVs. In 2025, Electrify Expo’s nationwide tour will visit Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit www.electrifyexpo.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

    Media Contact
    Skyya PR
    ee@skyya.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e855db0b-5112-46af-98a2-4caad869eaf4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Opening a new era for XRP: DRML miner releases innovative smart cloud mining contract, enjoy XRP rewards every day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Boost Mining Potential Maximize your mining potential — DRML Miner now supports direct XRP mining with daily XRP payouts, in addition to AI-optimized contracts for BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, and more for stable, diversified returns.

    As Ripple’s XRP ecosystem flourishes around the world, DRML Miner is proud to announce a major development in the cryptocurrency mining space: the official launch of XRP-centric cloud mining contracts. These flexible short-term contracts are now available on web and mobile platforms, allowing users to mine XRP remotely and receive daily XRP rewards – no mining hardware, no complex setup, and no experience required. For the first time, retail participants can participate in the XRP economy through a streamlined, fully integrated platform.

    Browse the DRML Miner website or download the app now.

    XRP Cloud Mining is here – simple, smart, and rewarding

    Traditionally seen as a token for cross-border payments and institutional use, XRP has now entered a new phase with DRML Miner’s latest innovation – user-friendly cloud mining. Participants can mine XRP directly or rely on DRML Miner’s smart AI engine to switch between high-yield cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, etc. to optimize their earnings. All earnings are paid daily in your preferred cryptocurrency, ensuring stable returns regardless of market fluctuations.

    Designed for everyday users and professional investors, the solution enables users to earn a stable crypto income anytime, anywhere.

    Key Features of DRML Miner Cloud Mining Contracts

    – Full XRP Integration: Users can now deposit, buy, mine, and withdraw XRP directly within the platform.

    – Multi-Currency Mining Support: Mine and settle earnings in BTC, ETH, DOGE, USDC, USDT, SOL, LTC, and BCH.

    – AI Revenue Optimization: Proprietary algorithms dynamically allocate mining power to the highest performing assets to maximize mining revenue.

    – 100% Remote Access: No hardware required – fully accessible via the DRML Miner mobile app or browser.

    – Capital Protection: All contracts include a full return of principal at the end of the term, reducing risk and increasing assets.

    Mining Contracts to Fit Every Budget and Strategy

    DRML Miner offers a variety of cloud mining contracts with XRP-based deposits and withdrawals. Each contract is designed for flexibility, risk control, and predictable returns:

    $10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.6 per Day

    $100 Contract – 2 Days – Earn $3.50 per Day

    $500 Contract – 5 Days – Earn $6.50 per Day

    $5,000 Contract – 30 Days – Earn $77.50 per Day

    $50,000 Contract – 50 Days – Earn $975 per Day

    Whether testing the waters or scaling a long-term strategy, DRML Miner offers a low-risk, high-transparency option to achieve a steady daily income in XRP.

    Click here to explore more contract options.

    Why does DRML Miner’s XRP mining stand out?

    – Available to everyone: No mining equipment, no setup, no complexity — just click to earn money.

    – XRP native integration: Deposit, mine, and withdraw XRP in one unified ecosystem.

    – Stable returns, smart allocation: The AI ​​engine dynamically adjusts mining strategies in real time, maximizing returns and ensuring stable daily earnings on supported cryptocurrencies.

    – Multi-asset flexibility: Choose to mine XRP or invest in top currencies — with just one contract

    – Instant setup, global access: Works on any mobile device or browser — fully encrypted and secure

    Get started today in 3 easy steps:

    Sign up – create an account and get a $10 welcome bonus

    Choose a plan – activate a short-term or long-term contract (1-60 days available)

    Start earning – monitor daily profits and withdraw in your favorite coins

    Start mining XRP today at https://drmlminers.com/ or the DRML Miner mobile app (available for iOS and Android).

    XRP Mining, Towards a Digital Future

    Since 2018, a spokesperson for DRML Miner said: “We believe that participation in cryptocurrency activities should not come at the expense of the environment. By leveraging renewable energy and AI optimization, we are committed to providing users with efficient and sustainable mining services.

    Despite the volatility of the cryptocurrency market, daily mining income remains stable. Join the XRP mining revolution now: https://drmlminers.com/

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville on The Will Cain Show: Senate Must Deliver on President Trump’s Tax Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined The Will Cain Show to discuss the urgent need for the Senate to pass President Trump’s tax cuts.
    Read excerpts from the interview below or watch here.
    CAIN: “Senator, thanks for being with us here today. I believe you have already called for the firing of the Parliamentarian?”
    TUBERVILLE: “Well, first of all, Will, thanks for me on and also, keep winning. President Trump’s winning right and left. We’re gonna win on this bill no matter what the Parliamentarian does. Two-thirds of it is the tax cuts, as President Trump said, and the $150 billion for the border. So that being said, yes, we’re playing a home game here, but we’ve got the officials from the other team, which is the Parliamentarian. That’s how I look at it. The Parliamentarian is hired by the majority. We’re the majority, but we left Harry Reid’s Parliamentarian in place—been there for 12 years. I don’t like some of the things she did to this bill. She took out the provision that we blocked illegals from being on Medicaid, blocked illegals from getting student loans, blocked taxpayers from having to pay for these mutilated transition surgeries for minors, you can’t do that. I mean, but at the end of the day, you know, these are big things, but they’re really minor when it comes to saving the taxpayers money in this Big Beautiful Bill. We will pass it in the Senate this weekend sometime, but again, the House has to pass it.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO RELEASE: Tuberville Celebrates 65th Anniversary of Marshall Space Flight Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) released a video celebrating the 65th Anniversary of Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
    Senator Tuberville and U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) also introduced a resolution in the Senate recognizing the 65thAnniversary of MSFC. U.S. Representative Dale Strong (R-AL-05) led the resolution in the House of Representatives.
    Excerpts from Senator Tuberville’s video remarks can be found below, and the full video can be viewed here. 
    “Everywhere I go, people brag to me about Huntsville, Alabama.  And that’s because your talent and hard work has put the Rocket City—and the State of Alabama—on the map. From helping put the first man on the moon to making the SLS the backbone of space exploration, Marshall has made Alabama proud. Thank you to the engineers, scientists, technicians, and support staff—both past and present—who have made this possible.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Joins Hagerty in Bill to End Counting of Illegal Aliens in Electoral College and Congressional Apportionment Votes 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) in introducing the Equal Representation Act which would ensure only legal citizens are factored into the count for Congressional districts and the Electoral College map that determines presidential elections. The current method of counting illegal immigrants for purposes of representation is dangerous as it incentivizes illegal immigration. 
    Sen. Tuberville cosponsored this bill in the 118th Congress. 
    “Illegal aliens have no right to congressional representation in this country, and they have no right to determine who our elected leaders are,” said Sen. Tuberville. “The balance of power shouldn’t be weighed down by people who aren’t citizens of this country. Counting illegals in the Electoral College and congressional districts can completely alter the outcome of our elections. Thankfully, President Trump and his administration are deporting illegals in droves. I’m proud to join Senator Hagerty in reintroducing the Equal Representation Act so that ONLY Americans determine our elected leaders.”
    “It is unconscionable that illegal immigrants and non-citizens are counted toward congressional district apportionment and our electoral map for the presidency, which also heavily skews the seat count in the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Sen. Hagerty. “While people continue to flee Democrat-run cities, desperate Democrats have back-filled the mass exodus with illegal immigrants so that they do not lose their seats in Congress or their electoral votes, hence artificially boosting their political power and in turn diluting the power of other Americans’ votes. I’m pleased to lead my colleagues in reintroducing this legislation that would require a citizenship question on the census and will ensure that only citizens are counted in congressional redistricting.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Hagerty are joined by Sens. Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Jim Justice (R-WV), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) in cosponsoring this legislation.
    Read full text of the legislation here. 
    BACKGROUND:
    Currently, illegal immigrants are counted for congressional district apportionment and, therefore, Electoral College votes. For example, in a state like California, millions of illegal alien residents result in California taking several more congressional seats and Electoral College votes than the states’ population of citizens would justify. In other words, being a magnet for illegal immigration increases the power of a Californian’s vote relative to an individual in another state with less population boost from illegal immigration. This creates a perverse incentive encouraging illegal immigration and resettlement to increase political power.
    Specifically, the Equal Representation Act would:
    Require that the Census Bureau include a citizenship question on any future census to provide a greater understanding of the U.S. population and delineate between citizens and non-citizens for apportionment purposes;
    Prohibit non-citizens from being counted for purposes of congressional district and Electoral College apportionment; and
    Require that the Census Bureau publicly report on certain demographic data.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Releases Statement Following Senate’s Passage of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) released the following statement following his “yes” vote on President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.
    “The road to Making America Great Again runs through the One Big Beautiful Bill. President Trump campaigned on popular policies like No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, and No Tax on Social Security — and this bill turns those policies into law.
    We’re cutting taxes for everyone — doesn’t matter if you are rich or poor, urban or rural, a CEO or a lineworker. We’re supporting farmers who have been crushed by Joe Biden’s inflation. We’re finishing the wall, hiring more ICE officers, and closing dangerous loopholes that allowed 20 million criminals, murderers, terrorists, and gang members to invade this country under Joe Biden. This bill also includes a down payment on the Golden Dome, which will allow Alabama to continue leading the way in building cutting-edge technologies that keep Americans safe.
    I’m especially proud it includes my GOAL Act, which is the first time Congress will put a reasonable cap on graduate student loans. We are more than $37 trillion in debt, and we have to start standing up for American taxpayers. 
    This bill codifies every part of President Trump’s agenda that 77 million Americans wholeheartedly voted for. President Trump promised, and Senate Republicans delivered.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Joins Sunday Morning Futures on Devastating Floods in Kerr County & Across Central Texas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    AUSTIN – Today on Sunday Morning Futures, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) joined Jason Chaffetz to discuss this weekend’s devastating flooding in Texas and ongoing rescue efforts, warn Texans to be on alert for continued flooding across Central Texas, and convey Texans’ ongoing prayers for the rescue and recovery of those still missing. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.
    On the devastating flooding in Texas:
    “This was a 100-year flood event in an area that had been known to flood, but nothing like this.”
    “A terrible tragedy, but thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, the federal disaster relief has been provided at the request of Governor Abbott.” 
    “Governor Abbott has called today a Day of Prayer, and we are still saying our prayers here in Texas for those who are grieving and those who are still unaccounted for.”
    “Texans are tough, and they’re resilient.”
    “We are a family.”
     On the ongoing severe weather:
    “We’ve had an extended period of drought this summer, which is not unusual in the heat of the Texas summer, but of course, all this rain during a short period of time is causing flooding and unfortunately, there have been loss of lives in other parts of the state beyond Kerrville where the Camp Mystic was located.” 
    “People need to pay attention to the weather reports and the cautionary messages of local and state officials and to be safe, because the danger is not completely over.” 
    On Texas’ rescue efforts:
    “Governor Abbott said that we are going to be relentless in the rescue efforts, and still as I said, 27 young girls unaccounted for.”
    “We’re still hopeful and prayerful that they will be recovered.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Kerrville, Cornyn Discusses the Devastating Flooding & Praises Texas’ Rescue Efforts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    KERRVILLE – After receiving a briefing from state, local, and federal officials, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) gave the following remarks at a press conference in Kerrville, Texas, with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, U.S. Congressman Chip Roy (TX-21), Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, and Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring on yesterday’s devastating flooding and Texas’ ongoing rescue efforts. Video of his remarks can be found here starting at 40:37.
    “I remain incredibly impressed with Governor Abbott’s leadership and the incredible work that the Texas Department of Emergency Management under the leadership of Nim Kidd do.”
    “My thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem for responding so quickly to Governor Abbott’s request for a federal disaster declaration.”
    “We are praying for those who have lost loved ones and are grieving. We are celebrating with those who have been reacquainted with and rejoined with their family members.”
    “Up in [the city of] West, Texas, after a terrible disaster, a county commissioner there said something to me that I think is appropriate at a time like this. He said, ‘Being from Texas is not just about where you’re from, it’s who your family is,’ and so when things like this happen, we come together as a family, as Texans, in a way that I’m very proud of.”
    “[Governor Abbott] and his team will be relentless in supporting all of the efforts at the local and the federal level until every last person is accounted for and those families are reunited with their loved ones.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins The Big Weekend Show on Fox News to Discuss Budget Reconciliation, Trade Negotiations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    NASHVILLE, TN—Yesterday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined The Big Weekend Show on Fox News to discuss the wins within the budget reconciliation package, along with President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade negotiations.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Partial Transcript
    Hagerty on the benefits of the budget reconciliation package: “Well, before I say anything, I just wanted to say my heart goes out to the people in Texas that are still looking for their loved ones. One of my good friends had two daughters at Camp Mystic. Thankfully, they’re safe and alive, but my heart goes out to everybody. Thank you for covering this. And with respect to the American public and their perspective on the bill, the Democrats and their partisan allies in the media have been attacking this bill nonstop, even though they had not seen the final product yet. It has been under attack for weeks, if not months. Finally, we’ve got a bill put together that I think is going to do great things for the American public. Now it’s our job to get out and message properly, but when you think about it, the American public overwhelmingly support the fact that we’re going to be rebuilding our military, our defense. We’re going to be rebuilding our energy independence and onshoring energy here in America, making us dominant. Again, if you think about it from the perspective of the working man and woman, they’re looking at about a $10,000 increase in take-home pay every year, thanks to the tax cuts that we impose. No tax on tips. The benefits that people are going to see at the working-class level are going to be enormous, and we’re going to stimulate more capital investments, which will, again, beget more economic growth and more job opportunities for people here in America. Cutting out waste, fraud, and abuse — everybody’s for that, as well. It’s interesting, the Democrats used to be for work requirements, until the Republicans actually implemented them.”
    Hagerty on James Carville’s claim that the budget reconciliation will hurt Republicans long-term: “From the same man that promised John Kerry would be president of the United States. Carville just keeps getting it wrong. And I think what we’re going to see is the exact opposite. Again, when people see the benefits of this bill, when they see their take-home pay rising, when they see the economy moving again at the pace it was when we initially did this back in 2017, we’re going to see American people enjoying winning again. Carville can’t take that. They’re going to continue to message down this path. The Democrats are disheveled; I can say that. But again, I think Carville is going to wind up with egg on his face yet again.”
    Hagerty on the programs that will benefit working class Americans: “The interesting thing is all of these programs are aimed at improving the life of American citizens. If you think about what the Democrats passed, the reconciliation that generated so much inflation that every American was crushed by lower real wages, they don’t seem to be apologizing for that. They missed the mark completely, subsidizing their pals in the green energy environment. But here we are actually doing things for American people that will help people in the middle-class and the working-class, and the Democrats are calling it peanuts. Again, it just shows how detached they are from reality. And that detachment has led, I think, to this complete disheveled that we’re seeing among the Democrats. And again, they just continue to promote these falsehoods. The media, of course, has been supporting them, but I think as the American public realizes the truth of this, we’re going to see a great year in 2026.”
    Hagerty on the tariff deadlines for other countries to make trade deals: “I’ve actually been alongside President Trump. When I was Ambassador to Japan, we negotiated two trade deals with Japan at a time that nobody thought they could get done. President Trump has proven himself as someone that understands this. He knows that America has been getting ripped off for years. It goes all the way back to World War II. We put in place very low tariff barriers. We did this to induce countries to trade with us, but we should have time limit on it. We should have put some sort of GDP-per-capita limit because now these countries have just taken advantage of America. It’s gone on for too long. It’s time for them to shape up. It’s time for them to step up. We’ve already seen [the United Kingdom]. We’ve seen Vietnam. We’ve already seen parts of what’s going on with China. I think we’re going to see a number of deals come through here in the very near future. And for those that get the letters that are coming out very soon, they’ve got until the 1st of August to step up. But I can tell you President Trump means business on this. And I think what we’ll see is a much better and more improved trade environment, much more fair for American companies, as a result.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Flood Anniversaries, Welch Talks FEMA Reform in Barre and Montpelier 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch held a Listening Session in Barre with flood-impacted Vermonters 
    BARRE, VT — Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) met with flood-impacted Vermonters and community leaders in Barre and Montpelier and discussed the need to pass legislation to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Last week, Senator Welch visited Killington, Ludlow, and Weston; he will visit Hardwick, Lyndon, Barton, and Burke in the coming weeks. 
    Senator Welch recently unveiled the Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act. He will file the new legislation this week, coinciding with the anniversary of the July 2023 and July 2024 floods. 
    “The dangers of climate change are real and urgent, as so many Vermonters experienced firsthand. Vermont was hit with catastrophic flooding in July of 2023 and again in July of 2024—and communities and states across America have been hit by devastating disasters, most recently the tragic floods in Texas and North Carolina. FEMA does lifesaving and critical work after a disaster, and it is important the agency is fully supported. But FEMA also needs commonsense reforms, which is something I heard in Barre, Montpelier, and across Vermont. I will keep fighting to strengthen FEMA for disaster-impacted communities across America,” said Senator Welch.  
    The Disaster AID Act will cut red tape and empower state and local governments, make the delivery of disaster aid more efficient and effective, provide assistance to small towns and communities impacted by natural disasters, and block the White House from withholding funding for disaster recovery.  
    Barre: Senator Welch started the day with a Listening Session at the Barre Social Club, where he was joined by Mayor Thom Lauzon and Michele Braun of the Friends of the Winooski River. Senator Welch spoke with flood-impacted Vermonters and community members about Barre’s recovery from July 2023 floods and the importance of reforming and protecting FEMA.  
    Photo Caption: Senator Welch speaks with Vermonters at his Listening Session in Barre. 
    In Barre, Senator Welch also celebrated the opening of the Vermont Innovation, Efficiency, Weatherization (VIEW) Center, a new weatherization training center funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. Senator Welch championed weatherization funding and helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act as a member of the House of Representatives. Vermont’s weatherization assistance program helps eligible Vermont households with energy audits, heating system check-ups, energy efficient lighting and appliance upgrades, and weatherization renovation services. 
    Photo Caption: Senator Welch celebrates the opening of the VIEW training center 
    Montpelier: Senator Welch met with community leaders, city officials, businesses, and the Montpelier Commission on Recovery and Resilience. Attendees discussed red tape in FEMA’s Public Assistance program, and ways we can improve long-term flood recovery for Montpelier and communities across Vermont.  
    Photo Caption: Senator Welch meets with the Montpelier Commission on Recovery and Resilience 
    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing any attempt by the Trump Administration to dismantle FEMA. Earlier this year, Senator Welch published a guest essay in The New York Times entitled: “Don’t Kill FEMA. Fix It.” In his op-ed, Senator Welch outlined why President Trump’s actions to undermine and potentially dissolve FEMA are misguided—but also committed to working with the President on good faith efforts to reform the agency’s long-term recovery process.    
    In December 2024, Senator Welch helped shape and pass a comprehensive disaster aid package, which delivered more than $100.4 billion of relief for states like Vermont recovering from climate disasters. The disaster aid package contained many of Senator Welch’s top priorities for the State: dedicated help for Vermont’s flood-impacted farmers, flexible spending through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Relief fund, money for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, and support for businesses, among many other important provisions.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the 17th BRICS Summit Session on “Environment, COP 30 and Global Health” [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    President Lula, Distinguished Heads of State and Government, and Representatives, Dear colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Our environment is being attacked on all fronts:

    Pollution poisoning land and water.

    Biodiversity destroyed at an appalling rate.

    And of course, the climate crisis. 

    Across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters – as disasters accelerate. 

    The impact on human health is atrocious:

    Extreme heat kills. So does water contamination. Destroyed lands and harvests push up prices and aggravate hunger. Our changing climate inflames the spread of disease – from malaria to dengue fever.

    The vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price. And we absolutely need to tackle the point where climate and health meet.

    And that is where WHO’s role is fundamental.

    Excellencies,

    As we speak, emissions keep rising.

    The 1.5 degree limit is on a knife’s edge.

    We absolutely need a dramatic reduction in emissions – starting now.

    The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities must apply, but all countries must make an extra effort.

    And we must accelerate the pace of the energy transformation with justice, in order to make sure that all countries can benefit. 

    Renewables already largely match fossil fuels in global installed power capacity. 

    And clean energy investments are racing ahead of fossil fuels.

    Renewables are the cheapest and fastest new electricity almost everywhere.

    And we can’t forget the 700 million people still without electricity in the world.

    Renewables boost energy security and sovereignty, liberating countries from volatile fossil fuel markets, connecting people to power in the most remote locations and powering sustainable development. 
     
    And renewables and electrification don’t churn out toxic air pollution – which today kills seven million people every year.

    Excellencies,

    We need governments to build on the progress of last year’s biodiversity COP, particularly reaching an ambitious agreement on finance. 

    We need a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution – this year.

    And we need to make COP30 a success.

    I urge you to demonstrate how multilateralism counts, addressing the world’s needs in these difficult and divided times.

    And to come forward by September with ambitious new national climate plans – or NDCs that show the way:

    That cover all emissions and the whole economy; align with the 1.5 degree limit; and advance the global energy transition goals agreed at COP28. 

    We need to tackle injustices in the critical minerals value chain, and to ensure developing countries receive maximum benefit from their resources, as recommended by the United Nations Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals.

    And we need you standing firm on finance for a just, equitable transition.

    Developed countries must keep their promises, including the $40 billion a year for adaptation starting in 2025.

    Adaptation needs are particularly dramatic in developing countries that barely contribute to climate change. 

    We must ensure that the $300 billion a year by 2035 for developing countries agreed in Baku is delivered, and chart a course to raising $1.3 trillion a year, including new and innovative sources of finance and a credible price on carbon.

    We must bolster South-South cooperation, and improve new models such as the Just Energy Transition Partnerships.

    And we must fill the coffers of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage.

    Allow me a story. When this fund was created, the pledging conference that took place in the COP resulted in a sum that corresponded to the contract salary of the best well paid basketball player in the United States.

    This shows that we must be serious when we talk about the Loss and Damage fund.

    But the problem goes far beyond climate finance.

    As I said yesterday, we must invest in the reform of the international financial architecture and institutions, take action on debt relief, and triple the finance and capacity of the multilateral development banks to the benefit of developing countries.

    Excellencies,

    This is a moment of profound peril and possibility. 

    I urge the BRICS countries to be a pillar of the world’s response in solidarity – for people, planet and prosperity.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Takes Action on Six Bills

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Takes Action on Six Bills

    Governor Stein Takes Action on Six Bills
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Stein signed six bills into law.

    Governor Stein made the following statement on signing House Bill 546: 

    “This bill will strengthen North Carolina’s Medicaid program by providing coverage for women who have just given birth for 12 months, making telehealth services more accessible, and launching a new statewide Medicaid health plan for children and young adults served by the child welfare system.

    “However, much is still needed from our state legislature when it comes to protecting Medicaid, including a full rebase to preserve current services and a serious effort to defend against devastating federal cuts. To protect health care for more than 3 million North Carolinians on Medicaid, state legislators will need to take a hard look at our Medicaid laws, our state budget, and our long-term revenue requirements. I am encouraged that Senator Berger stated that he will lead efforts to work through any implementation issues, and I look forward to working with him.”

    Governor Stein made the following statement on signing House Bill 559: 

    “I have made my appointments to the Building and Residential Code Councils and look forward to the legislature moving to confirm these appointments so that our codes can be modernized and put into effect. North Carolina is the third-fastest growing state in the nation, and western North Carolina in particular is counting on our speedy action.”

    Governor Stein also signed the following bills into law:

    • Senate Bill 706
    • Senate Bill 664
    • House Bill 210
    • House Bill 23 
    Jul 7, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard rescues two teens trapped on a cliff side near Roads End Point in Lincoln County, Oregon

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/07/2025 04:15 PM EDT

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 13th District PA Detachment Astoria
    Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Astoria
    Office: (503) 861-6380
    After Hours: (206) 220-7237
    PA Detachment Astoria online newsroom

     

    07/07/2025 03:53 PM EDT

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How can you keep kids off screens during the winter holidays?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Minson, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education, Australian Catholic University

    Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Children’s Games, 1560. ©KHM-Museumsverband, CC BY-NC

    The winter school holidays can be a tricky time for families. Parents are often juggling work and chilly conditions make it easy for kids to end up on the couch with multiple devices.

    What other activities can you try? And how can you encourage the kids to move without it seeming like a massive chore or a punishment for everyone?

    Here are some ideas for younger and older primary school children.

    We know kids aren’t active enough

    Many children aren’t as active as they need to be. Australian kids scored a D- on a 2022 report card on physical activity. Less than a quarter of children and young people met the guidelines of 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day.

    Meanwhile, we know excessive screen use is one of the top health concerns Australian parents have about their children.

    What can you do for 5 to 8-year-olds?

    In his 1560 painting Children’s Games, Pieter Bruegel depicts more than 80 of childhood games and play outside. This includes playing with balls, swinging, climbing a tree and imaginary games.

    Many of these ideas still work today. So just like the children in Bruegel’s picture, embrace the outdoors. Remember it’s OK to get a bit wet or a bit muddy (even though, yes, this does mean more washing).

    Think about going on an adventure to the city, cafe, library, or museum or simply finding local puddles to splash in. A change of scenery can do wonders for cabin fever.

    Trips to the park or other nearby nature spots are also important. Research shows playing in green spaces improves children’s mental and emotional wellbeing.

    Need more toys?

    If you feel your toy cupboard is looking overly familiar, try a local Toy Library to borrow puzzles, board games and activities. Alternatively, arrange a toy swap with a trusted neighbour or friend.

    Don’t underestimate the joy and novelty in doing the basic or everyday tasks but with more time, over the holidays. Cooking, baking, sending cards, writing letters and reading a book together are all excellent ways to connect and build memories.

    You could also ask the kids to go and make an art exhibition or practise for a home dance or music concert while you make a cup or tea.

    What about older primary kids?

    Older children love to create, work together and connect with their peers.

    So you could encourage your child or children to channel popular YouTubers and gamers by creating physical challenges at home, for example: a home holiday Olympics, safe Ninja-style circuit or obstacle course.

    Or you could turn everyday chores into “missions” that earn rewards like having their favourite meal or a shopping trip.

    Keep moving

    You could break up sitting time by making TikTok style dances or doing physically challenges (how many star jumps can you do in a minute?) as often as possible.

    If you have wearable tech, such as smart watches, you can track time spent being active. Set up a friendly competition for steps while playing with pets, cleaning up or dancing around the house.

    A 2022 Australian study suggests the “break up your sitting” approach may result in children being more active than a simple “move more” message.

    Also think about screen time that gets kids moving – such as sports-based games. Research shows the energy expended during active gaming is equivalent to a brisk walk. Not all screen time has to be sedentary.

    Try a whole day ‘unplugged’

    You could try a whole day without devices – this shows children it is possible!

    Consider giving the kids more decision-making powers on these days: they could pick (and hopefully) make their meals, have a friend over, decide what games to play or what art and craft to make.

    The winter holidays are a good time to set new active habits that won’t only help now, but will set the tone for the spring and longer summer breaks ahead.

    Victoria Minson is the Course Coordinator for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) (Accelerated) at Australian Catholic University. The Victorian offering of the course has received funding from the Victorian government and Victorian Department of Education. Victoria also receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Amanda Telford has previously received funding from the ARC and NHMRC.

    – ref. How can you keep kids off screens during the winter holidays? – https://theconversation.com/how-can-you-keep-kids-off-screens-during-the-winter-holidays-260577

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia is set to get more AI data centres. Local communities need to be more involved

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Cumbo, Transdisciplinary social researcher and lecturer, University of Technology Sydney

    A Google data centre in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. Richard Newstead/Getty

    Data centres are the engines of the internet. These large, high-security facilities host racks of servers that store and process our digital data, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    There are already more than 250 data centres across Australia. But there are set to be more, as the federal government’s plans for digital infrastructure expansion gains traction. We recently saw tech giant Amazon’s recent pledge to invest an additional A$20 billion in new data centres across Sydney and Melbourne, alongside the development of three solar farms in Victoria and Queensland to help power them.

    The New South Wales government also recently launched a new authority to fast-track approvals for major infrastructure projects.

    These developments will help cater to the surging demand for generative artificial intelligence (AI). They will also boost the national economy and increase Australia’s digital sovereignty – a global shift toward storing and managing data domestically under national laws.

    But the everyday realities of communities living near these data centres aren’t as optimistic. And one key step toward mitigating these impacts is ensuring genuine community participation in shaping how Australia’s data-centre future is developed.

    The sensory experience of data centres

    Data centres are large, warehouse-like facilities. Their footprint typically ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 square metres. They are set on sites with backup generators and thousands of litres of stored diesel and enclosed by high-security fencing. Fluorescent lighting illuminates them every hour of the day.

    A data centre can emanate temperatures of 35°C to 45°C. To prevent the servers from overheating, air conditioners are continuously humming. In water-cooled facilities, water pipes transport gigalitres of cool water through the data centre each day to absorb the heat produced.

    Data centres can place substantial strain on the local energy grid and water supply.

    In some places where many data centres have been built, such as Northern Virginia in the United States and Dublin in Ireland, communities have reported rising energy and water prices. They have also reported water shortages and the degradation of valued natural and historical sites.

    They have also experienced economic impacts. While data centre construction generates high levels of employment, these facilities tend to employ a relatively small number of staff when they are operating.

    These impacts have prompted some communities to push back against new data centre developments. Some communities have even filed lawsuits to halt proposed projects due to concerns about water security, environmental harm and heavy reliance on fossil fuels.

    A unique opportunity

    To date, communities in Australia have been buffered from the impacts of data centres. This is largely because Australia has outsourced most of its digital storage and processing needs (and associated impacts) to data centres overseas.

    But this is now changing. As Australia rapidly expands its digital infrastructure, the question of who gets to shape its future becomes increasingly important.

    To avoid amplifying the social inequities and environmental challenges of data centres, the tech industry and governments across Australia need to include the communities who will live alongside these crucial pieces of digital infrastructure.

    This presents Australia with a unique opportunity to set the standard for creating a sustainable and inclusive digital future.

    A path to authentic community participation

    Current planning protocols for data centres limit community input. But there are three key steps data centre developers and governments can take to ensure individual developments – and the broader data centre industry – reflect the values, priorities and aspirations of local communities.

    1. Developing critical awareness about data centres

    People want a greater understanding of what data centres are, and how they will affect their everyday lives.

    For example, what will data centres look, sound and feel like to live alongside? How will they affect access to drinking water during the next drought? Or water and energy prices during the peak of summer or winter?

    Genuinely engaging with these questions is a crucial step toward empowering communities to take part in informed conversations about data centre developments in their neighbourhoods.

    2. Involving communities early in the planning process

    Data centres are often designed using generic templates, with minimal adaptation to local conditions or concerns. Yet each development site has a unique social and ecological context.

    By involving communities early in the planning process, developers can access invaluable local knowledge about culturally significant sites, biodiversity corridors, water-sensitive areas and existing sustainability strategies that may be overlooked in state-level planning frameworks.

    This kind of local insight can help tailor developments to reduce harm, enhance benefits, and ensure local priorities are not just heard, but built into the infrastructure itself.

    3. Creating more inclusive visions of Australia’s data centre industry

    Communities understand the importance of digital infrastructure and are generally supportive of equitable digital access. But they want to see the data centre industry grow in ways that acknowledges their everyday lives, values and priorities.

    To create a more inclusive future, governments and industry can work with communities to broaden their “clean” visions of digital innovation and economic prosperity to include the “messy” realities, uncertainties and everyday aspirations of those living alongside data centre developments.

    This approach will foster greater community trust and is essential for building more complex, human-centred visions of the tech industry’s future.

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

    – ref. Australia is set to get more AI data centres. Local communities need to be more involved – https://theconversation.com/australia-is-set-to-get-more-ai-data-centres-local-communities-need-to-be-more-involved-259799

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Shiseido Partners with Emphasys to Deliver Global SAP Transformation Across Six Regions and 120 Countries

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Emphasys ®, a leading provider of SAP transformation and systems architecture services, today announced the successful completion of a five-year global transformation program in partnership with Shiseido Co., Ltd., one of the world’s premier Japanese cosmetics companies.

    The large-scale program, known as FOCUS (First, One Connected and Unified Shiseido), was executed from Tokyo and spanned six global regions, servicing customers in over 120 countries. FOCUS aimed to establish a single global platform by standardizing data, optimizing processes, and implementing advanced analytics capabilities to help Shiseido become a data-driven organisation capable of outperforming competitors.

    At the heart of this transformation was the deployment of a single global instance of SAP S/4HANA, along with best-in-class SAP solutions including IBP, Ariba, and SuccessFactors. Emphasys played a critical role in delivering an optimized enterprise architecture required to enable this highly complex, high-transaction-volume program.

    “We partnered with Emphasys to optimize the enterprise architecture and integration of our global transformation,” said François Keet, Vice President, Head of Global Business Transformation at Shiseido Co., Ltd. “Emphasys brought deep SAP expertise and the practical know-how to optimize our system landscape. Their team’s professionalism and commitment were essential to achieving global alignment across systems and regions. Their expert advice and technical solution optimization contributed directly to reducing our sales order processing time by 69%—a remarkable efficiency gain. The partnership was vital in helping us execute our vision and position Shiseido for continued success.”

    Glynn Williams, Managing Director at Emphasys, added:

    “This program is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when business transformation is underpinned by robust architecture and intelligent integration. We are honoured to have supported Shiseido’s bold vision and to have played a part in its global impact.”

    About Emphasys®
    Emphasys is an SAP Gold Partner specializing in SAP transformation, systems architecture, business process management, and integration services. With deep expertise and a customer-first mindset, Emphasys helps organisations modernise and scale with confidence. https://www.emphasys.com.au

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: First Hawaiian to Report Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results on July 25, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONOLULU, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Hawaiian, Inc. (NASDAQ: FHB) announced today that it plans to release its second quarter 2025 financial results on Friday, July 25, 2025 before the market opens. First Hawaiian will host a conference call to discuss the company’s results on the same day at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time (7:00 a.m. Hawaii Time).

    To access the call by phone, participants will need to click on the following registration link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI3617237efe0943198ba8998c36c623cc, register for the conference call, and then you will receive the dial-in number and a personalized PIN code. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the scheduled start time.

    A live webcast of the conference call, including a slide presentation, will be available at the following link: www.fhb.com/earnings. The archive of the webcast will be available at the same location.

    About First Hawaiian

    First Hawaiian, Inc. (NASDAQ:FHB) is a bank holding company headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii. Its principal subsidiary, First Hawaiian Bank, founded in 1858 under the name Bishop & Company, is Hawaii’s oldest and largest financial institution with branch locations throughout Hawaii, Guam and Saipan. The company offers a comprehensive suite of banking services to consumer and commercial customers including deposit products, loans, wealth management, insurance, trust, retirement planning, credit card and merchant processing services. Customers may also access their accounts through ATMs, online and mobile banking channels. For more information about First Hawaiian, Inc., visit www.FHB.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Kevin Haseyama
    (808) 525-6268
    khaseyama@fhb.com

    Media Contact:
    Lindsay Chambers
    (808) 525-6254
    lchambers@fhb.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Business First Bancshares, Inc. Announces Agreement to Acquire Progressive Bancorp, Inc. and Progressive Bank

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BATON ROUGE, La., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Business First Bancshares, Inc. (Nasdaq: BFST) (“Business First”), the holding company for b1BANK, announced today the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Progressive Bancorp, Inc. (“Progressive”) and its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Progressive Bank.

    Once completed, the acquisition is expected to increase Business First’s total assets to approximately $8.5 billion, with over $6.6 billion in total loans. As of March 31, 2025, Progressive reported total assets of $752 million, deposits of $673 million, and equity capital of $65 million.

    The transaction expands b1BANK’s already strong commitment to the North Louisiana market and, post-merger, b1BANK will maintain the leading deposit market share across the state among Louisiana-based banks.

    “This partnership combines companies with shared values, similar cultures and complementary strategies,” said Jude Melville, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Business First Bancshares, Inc. “We’re adding talented bankers who are well-established in communities that are important to us. It deepens our Louisiana footprint, strengthens our deposit and liquidity profiles, and results in an economically strengthened shared franchise. We will together more thoroughly serve our respective clients in what is an increasingly competitive arena.”

    George Cummings III, chairman and chief executive officer of Progressive, added, “We’ve built Progressive on trusted relationships and a commitment to serving our communities with care and consistency. This partnership allows us to continue that mission with greater resources, broader capabilities and a shared belief in relationship banking. We’re confident this new chapter will greatly benefit our shareholders and create lasting value for our customers, employees and communities.”

    Upon completion of the proposed transaction, Cummings will join both the b1BANK and Business First Bancshares, Inc. boards of directors. David Hampton, president of Progressive, will join b1BANK as vice chairman of the North Louisiana market.

    Under the definitive agreement, Business First expects to issue approximately 3,050,490 shares of common stock to Progressive shareholders, who will own approximately 9.3 percent of the combined company after closing. These amounts may be subject to adjustment based upon the exercise of Progressive stock options prior to closing and the price of Business First common stock shortly before closing. Cash will be paid in lieu of fractional shares and for in-the-money stock options. The transaction received unanimous approval from both companies’ boards of directors.   Progressive directors and executive officers have also agreed to vote their shares in support of the transaction.   

    The transaction is expected to close early in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory and Progressive shareholder approvals.

    Raymond James & Associates, Inc. acted as financial advisor, and Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP served as legal counsel to Business First. Mercer Capital served as financial advisor, and Munck Wilson Mandala LLP served as legal counsel to Progressive.

    For additional information regarding the proposed transaction, an Investor Presentation has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and may be accessed, at no charge, on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and at Business First’s website at www.b1BANK.com.

    About Business First Bancshares Inc.

    As of March 31, 2025, Business First Bancshares Inc. (Nasdaq: BFST), through its banking subsidiary b1BANK, has $7.8 billion in assets and $7.1 billion in assets under management through b1BANK’s affiliate Smith Shellnut Wilson LLC (SSW), excluding $0.9 billion of b1BANK assets managed by SSW. b1BANK operates banking centers and loan production offices across Louisiana and Texas, providing commercial and personal banking products and services. b1BANK is a 2024 Mastercard “Innovation Award” winner and a multiyear recipient of American Banker magazine’s “Best Banks to Work For.” Visit b1BANK.com for more information.

    About Progressive Bancorp, Inc.

    Progressive Bancorp, Inc. is a bank holding company and the parent company of Progressive Bank, a Louisiana banking association that offers a full range of banking products and services from nine full-service branch locations across Louisiana. As of March 31, 2025, Progressive Bank had $752 million in total assets, $583 million in total loans, $673 million in total deposits and $65 million in shareholders’ equity. More information is available at https://www.progressivebank.com/.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to sell, or a solicitation or an offer to buy any securities. There will be no sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This communication is also not a solicitation of any vote in any jurisdiction pursuant to the proposed transaction or otherwise. No offer of securities or solicitation shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirement of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”).

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act. These forward-looking statements reflect Business First’s current views with respect to future events and Business First’s financial performance. Any statements about Business First’s expectations, beliefs, plans, predictions, forecasts, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not historical facts and may be forward-looking. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “believes,” “can,” “could,” “may,” “predicts,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” “estimate,” “plans,” “projects,” “continuing,” “ongoing,” “expects,” “intends” and similar words or phrases. Business First cautions that the forward-looking statements in this press release are based largely on Business First’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections and management assumptions about the future performance of each of Business First, Progressive and the combined company, as well as the businesses and markets in which they do and are expected to operate. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to assess and are subject to change based on factors which are, in many instances, beyond Business First’s control. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements: (1) the expected impact of the proposed transaction between BFST and Progressive on the combined entities’ operations, financial condition, and financial results; (2) the businesses of Business First and Progressive may not be combined successfully, or such combination may take longer to accomplish than expected; (3) the cost savings from the proposed transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; (4) operating costs, customer loss and business disruption following the proposed transaction, including adverse effects on relationships with employees, may be greater than expected; (5) regulatory approvals of the proposed transaction may not be obtained, or adverse conditions may be imposed in connection with regulatory approvals of the proposed transaction; (6) the Progressive shareholders may not approve the proposed transaction; (7) the impact on Business First and Progressive, and their respective customers, of a decline in general economic conditions that would adversely affect credit quality and loan originations, and any regulatory responses thereto; (8) potential recession in the United States and Business First’s and Progressive’s market areas; (9) the impacts related to or resulting from bank failures and any continuation of the uncertainty in the banking industry, including the associated impact to Business First, Progressive and other financial institutions of any regulatory changes or other mitigation efforts taken by government agencies in response thereto; (10) the impact of changes in market interest rates, whether due to continued elevated interest rates resulting in further compression of net interest margin or potential reductions in interest rates resulting in declines in net interest income; (11) the persistence of the current inflationary pressures, or the resurgence of elevated levels of inflation, in the United States and the Business First and Progressive market areas; (12) the uncertain impacts of ongoing quantitative tightening and current and future monetary policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; (13) uncertainty regarding United States fiscal debt and budget matters; (14) political and policy uncertainties, changes in U.S. and international trade policies, such as tariffs or other factors, and the potential impact of such factors on the Company and its customers; (15) cyber incidents or other failures, disruptions or breaches of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of our third-party vendors or other service providers, including as a result of cyber-attacks; (16) competition from other financial services companies in Business First’s and Progressive’s markets; or (17) current or future litigation, regulatory examinations or other legal and/or regulatory actions. Additional information regarding these risks and uncertainties to which Business First’s business and future financial performance are subject is contained in Business First’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K on file with the SEC, including the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of such documents, and other documents Business First files or furnishes with the SEC from time to time, which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, or implied by the forward-looking statements due to additional risks and uncertainties of which Business First is not currently aware or which it does not currently view as, but in the future may become, material to its business or operating results. Due to these and other possible uncertainties and risks, Business First can give no assurance that the results contemplated in the forward-looking statements will be realized and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Any forward-looking statements presented herein are made only as of the date of this press release, and Business First does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in assumptions, new information, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking statements, express or implied, included in the press release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

    Additional Information about the Proposed Transaction and Where to Find It

    This communication is being made with respect to the proposed transaction involving Business First and Progressive. This material is not a solicitation of any vote or approval of the Progressive shareholders and is not a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or any other documents that Business First and Progressive may send to their respective shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

    In connection with the proposed transaction, Business First will file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include a proxy statement of Progressive and a prospectus of Business First, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction. Before making any voting or investment decisions, investors and shareholders are urged to read carefully the Registration Statement and the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction, as well as any other relevant documents filed with the SEC and any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information. Progressive will mail the proxy statement/prospectus to its shareholders. Shareholders are also urged to carefully review and consider Business First’s public filings with the SEC, including, but not limited to, its proxy statements, its Annual Reports on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and its Current Reports on Form 8-K. Copies of the Registration Statement and proxy statement/prospectus and other filings incorporated by reference therein, as well as other filings containing information about Business First, may be obtained, free of charge, as they become available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You will also be able to obtain these documents, when they are filed, free of charge, from Business First at www.b1BANK.com. Copies of the proxy statement/prospectus can also be obtained, when they become available, free of charge, by directing a request to Business First Bancshares, Inc., 500 Laurel Street, Suite 101, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, Attention: Corporate Secretary, Telephone: 225-248-7600.

    Participants in the Proposed Transaction

    Business First, Progressive and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and employees may, under the SEC’s rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of Progressive’s shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information about Business First’s directors and executive officers is available in its definitive proxy statement relating to its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 9, 2025, and other documents filed by Business First with the SEC. Other information regarding the persons who may, under the SEC’s rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of Progressive’s shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction, and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described in the preceding paragraph.

    Misty Albrecht
    b1BANK
    225.286.7879
    Misty.Albrecht@b1BANK.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Encore Capital Group to Announce Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results on August 6

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Encore Capital Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:ECPG), an international specialty finance company, announced today that it will release its financial results for the second quarter 2025 on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, after the market closes. The Company will also host a conference call and slide presentation the same day at 2:00 p.m. Pacific / 5:00 p.m. Eastern time with Ashish Masih, President and Chief Executive Officer, Tomas Hernanz, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Bruce Thomas, Vice President, Global Investor Relations, presenting and discussing the reported results.

    Members of the public are invited to access the live webcast via the Internet by logging in on the Investor Relations page of Encore’s website at www.encorecapital.com. To access the live conference call by telephone, please pre-register using this link. Registrants will receive confirmation with dial-in details.

    For those who cannot listen to the live broadcast, a replay of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website shortly after the call concludes.

    About Encore Capital Group, Inc.

    Encore Capital Group is an international specialty finance company that provides debt recovery solutions and other related services for consumers across a broad range of financial assets. Through its subsidiaries around the globe, Encore purchases portfolios of consumer receivables from major banks, credit unions, and utility providers.

    Encore partners with individuals as they repay their debt obligations, helping them on the road to financial recovery and ultimately improving their economic well-being. Encore is the first and only company of its kind to operate with a Consumer Bill of Rights that provides industry-leading commitments to consumers. Headquartered in San Diego, Encore is a publicly traded NASDAQ Global Select company (ticker symbol: ECPG) and a component stock of the Russell 2000, the S&P Small Cap 600 and the Wilshire 4500. More information about the company can be found at www.encorecapital.com.

    Contact:
    Bruce Thomas
    Encore Capital Group, Inc.
    bruce.thomas@encorecapital.com

    SOURCE: Encore Capital Group, Inc.

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  • MIL-OSI: Globalink Investment Inc. Announces Extension of the Deadline to Complete a Business Combination to August 9, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Globalink Investment Inc. (OTC Pink: GLLI, GLLIW, GLLIR, GLLIU) (“Globalink” or the “Company”), a special purpose acquisition company, announced today that on July 3, 2025, it caused to be deposited $0.15 per public share, totaling $10,890.15 (the “Extension Payment”) into its trust account (the “Trust Account”) with Continental Stock Transfer and Trust Company (“Continental”) to extend the deadline to complete its initial business combination from July 9, 2025 to August 9, 2025. The extension is the twenty-fifth extension since the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering on December 9, 2021, and the second of up to six extensions permitted under the Company’s governing documents currently in effect.

    About Globalink Investment Inc.

    Globalink is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. Although there is no restriction or limitation on what industry or geographic region, Globalink intends to pursue targets in North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Asia (excluding China, Hong Kong and Macau) in the medical technology and green energy industry.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are subject to the safe harbor created thereby. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “outlook,” “guidance” or the negative of those terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of the Company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause future events to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, many of which are outside of the Company’s control. These factors include, but are not limited to, a variety of risk factors affecting the Company’s business and prospects, see the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the SEC on March 25, 2025 and the prospectus filed with the SEC on December 6, 2021 and subsequent reports filed with the SEC, as amended from time to time. Any forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Globalink Contact:

    Say Leong Lim
    Globalink Investment Inc.
    Telephone: +6012 405 0015
    Email: limsayleong@hotmail.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Netcapital Announces Closing of Up To $9.9 Million Registered Direct Offering Priced At-The-Market Under Nasdaq Rules

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    $5 million upfront with up to an additional $4.9 million of potential aggregate gross proceeds upon the exercise in full of short-term warrants

    Boston, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Netcapital Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: NCPL, NPCLW), a digital private capital markets ecosystem, today announced the closing of its previously announced registered direct offering priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules for the purchase and sale of 714,286 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $7.00 per share. In a concurrent private placement, the Company issued unregistered short-term warrants to purchase up to 714,286 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.88 per share that are immediately exercisable upon issuance and will expire twenty-four months following the effective date of the registration statement covering the resale of the shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the unregistered short-term warrants.

    H.C. Wainwright & Co. acted as the exclusive placement agent for the offering.

    The gross proceeds to the Company from the offering were approximately $5 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. The potential additional gross proceeds to the Company from the unregistered short-term warrants, if fully-exercised on a cash basis, will be approximately $4.9 million. No assurance can be given that any of such unregistered short-term warrants will be exercised. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for the repayment of certain outstanding promissory notes and for general working capital purposes.

    The common stock (but not the unregistered short-term warrants and the shares of common stock underlying the unregistered short-term warrants) described above were offered by the Company pursuant to a “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-267921) that was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on October 26, 2022. The offering of the shares of common stock was made only by means of a prospectus, including a prospectus supplement, forming a part of the effective registration statement. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the registered direct offering was filed with the SEC. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus may be obtained on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov or by contacting H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC at 430 Park Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, New York 10022, by phone at (212) 856-5711 or e-mail at placements@hcwco.com.

    The unregistered short-term warrants described above were offered in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and/or Regulation D promulgated thereunder and, along with the shares of common stock underlying such unregistered short-term warrants, have not been registered under the Securities Act, or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the unregistered short-term warrants and underlying shares of common stock may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and such applicable state securities laws.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Netcapital Inc.

    Netcapital Inc. is a fintech company with a scalable technology platform that allows private companies to raise capital online and provides private equity investment opportunities to investors. The Company’s consulting group, Netcapital Advisors, provides marketing and strategic advice and takes equity positions in select companies. The Company’s funding portal, Netcapital Funding Portal Inc. is registered with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a registered national securities association. The Company’s broker-dealer, Netcapital Securities Inc., is also registered with the SEC and is a member of FINRA.

    Forward Looking Statements

    The information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events, including, but not limited to, statements relating to the exercise of the unregistered short-term warrants prior to their expiration and statements regarding the anticipated use of proceeds from the offering, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

    Investor Contact
    800-460-0815 
    ir@netcapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Enovix Declares Shareholder Warrant Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enovix Corporation (Nasdaq: ENVX) (“Company” or “Enovix”), a global high-performance battery company, today announced a special dividend in the form of warrants to holders of the Company’s common stock as of July 17, 2025 (the “Record Date”). Each stockholder of record as of the Record Date will receive one (1) warrant for every seven (7) shares of common stock held, rounded down to the nearest whole number. In addition, holders of the Company’s 3.00% convertible senior notes due 2028 (“Convertible Notes”) as of the Record Date will receive warrants on a pass-through basis, as provided under the indenture governing the Convertible Notes.

    The Company expects to distribute the warrants to stockholders and other eligible recipients on or about July 21, 2025 (the “Distribution Date”). The warrants will be issued without any action required by the Company’s stockholders or noteholders as of the Record Date and without any payment of cash or other consideration.

    Each warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $8.75 per share. The warrants may be exercised only for cash. Following the Distribution Date, the warrants are expected to be listed and trade on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the ticker ENVXW.

    The transaction provides Enovix the opportunity to raise up to $253.8 million of gross proceeds with equity issued at an approximate 12% premium to the trailing 60-day volume-weighted average price (“VWAP”) of our common stock as of July 3, 2025, despite the attractive price to shareholders. Management thus intends the dividend to be an attractive source of financing due to the combination of immediate shareholder value delivered, the Company’s flexibility given frictionless execution, and ability to issue equity in a very cost-efficient manner.

    This announcement follows the Company’s launch earlier today of the AI-1™ platform, its first Artificial Intelligence Class™ batteries for the next generation of smartphones that require significantly higher total energy storage and power to perform AI functions locally.

    • “This dividend is designed to give our shareholders meaningful flexibility immediate gain and liquidity without dilution and with no obligation to act,” said Ryan Benton, Enovix CFO. “We’re well funded today, but if exercised, the proceeds could support scale-up of Fab2, accelerate customer ramps, and advance our strategic priorities. It’s a thoughtful way to strengthen our balance sheet – and simultaneously reward our current shareholders.”
    • T.J. Rodgers, Chairman of Enovix, said, “I’ve worked with Brendan Dyson on convertible debentures for over 30 years, including some of the early work on the now-common call spreads at maturity. In this case, we instructed him to make the deal to investors that was not only immediately accretive, but also a long-term ‘must have’ portfolio addition – and he did just that.”

    Details of Warrant Distribution

    Stockholders will receive one (1) warrant for each seven (7) shares of common stock held as of the Record Date of July 17, 2025, rounded down to the nearest whole number for any fractional warrant. As an example, a stockholder who owns 1,000 shares of common stock would receive 142 warrants, and a stockholder who owns 7,000 shares of common stock would receive 1,000 warrants.

    Holders of the Convertible Notes as of the Record Date will also receive warrants based on the same ratio in the manner determined by the indenture governing the Convertible Notes. As an example, holders of each $1,000 face amount of Convertible Notes will receive 9.1543 warrants, rounded down to the nearest whole number for any fractional warrant.

    After the Distribution Date, warrant holders may exercise their warrants for cash as specified under the terms of the warrant agreement that we expect to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) by the Distribution Date.
    The warrants will expire at 5:00 p.m. New York City time on October 1, 2026, unless the “Early Expiration Price Condition” is met, in which case the expiration will be accelerated.

    The Early Expiration Price Condition will be deemed satisfied if, during any period of twenty (20) out of thirty (30) consecutive trading days, the VWAP of the common stock equals or exceeds $10.50 (the “Early Expiration Trigger Price”) whether or not consecutive (such final day, the “Early Expiration Price Condition Date”). If this condition is met, the warrants will expire at 5:00 p.m. New York City time on the Business Day immediately following the Early Expiration Price Condition Date or such other date as the Company may elect in accordance with the warrant agreement.

    The Company will host a live conference call to discuss this announcement today at 2:00 PM PT / 5:00 PM ET. To join the call, participants must use the following link to register: https://enovix-special-investor-conference-call-july-2025.open-exchange.net/ A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document regarding this warrant dividend distribution will be made available on the Investor Relations section of Enovix’s website at https://ir.enovix.com.

    If the Early Expiration Price Condition occurs, Enovix will make a public announcement to that effect which will include the corresponding warrant expiration date.

    Transaction Advisors

    B. Dyson Capital Advisors is serving as exclusive advisor to the Company on the structuring and distribution of the warrants.

    TD Cowen is acting as financial advisor to the Company, with Canaccord Genuity, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., and William Blair & Company supporting as additional capital markets advisors.

    About Enovix Corporation

    Enovix is a leader in advancing lithium-ion battery technology with its proprietary 3D cell architecture designed to deliver higher energy density and improved safety. The Company’s breakthrough silicon-anode batteries are engineered to power a wide range of devices from wearable electronics and mobile communications to industrial and electric vehicle applications. Enovix’s technology enables longer battery life and faster charging, supporting the growing global demand for high-performance energy storage. Enovix holds a robust portfolio of issued and pending patents covering its core battery design, manufacturing process, and system integration innovations. For more information, visit https://www.enovix.com.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    The issuance of the warrants has not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), as the distribution of a warrant for no consideration does not constitute a sale of a security under Section 2(a)(3) of the Securities Act. A Form 8-A registration statement and prospectus supplement describing the terms of the warrants will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Holders should read the prospectus supplement carefully, including the Risk Factors section included and incorporated by reference therein. This press release contains a general summary of the warrants. Please read the warrant agreement when it becomes available as it will contain important information about the terms of the warrants.

    Forward‐Looking Statements

    This press release contains 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, about us, the warrant dividend and our business that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance and can be identified by words such as anticipate, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, might, plan, possible, potential, predict, should, would and similar expressions that convey uncertainty about future events or outcomes. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, our expectations regarding the warrant distribution and our AI-1™ battery platform launch, the alignment of our capital structure with shareholder support and performance-based execution, that capital raised through warrant exercises could support our scale-up at Fab2, accelerate customer ramps and advance strategic priorities, that the warrant distribution is aligned with shareholder interests and considered a long-term “must-have” for our investors’ portfolios, the acceptance to trading of the warrants on the Nasdaq Stock Market, the existence of a market for the warrants, and our capital raising potential if warrants are exercised. Actual results and outcomes could differ materially from these forward-looking statements as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, those risks and uncertainties and other potential factors set forth in our filings with the SEC, including in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of our most recently filed annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other documents that we have filed, or that we will file, with the SEC. For a full discussion of these risks, please refer to Enovix’s filings with the SEC, including its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q, available at https://ir.enovix.com and www.sec.gov. Any forward-looking statements made by us in this press release speak only as of the date on which they are made and subsequent events may cause these expectations to change. We disclaim any obligations to update or alter these forward-looking statements in the future, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contacts:

    Investors
    Robert Lahey
    ir@enovix.com

    Chief Financial Officer
    Ryan Benton
    ryan.benton@enovix.com

    The MIL Network –