NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Machine Learning

  • MIL-OSI China: Microgrids power China green energy transition

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

    At a new energy vehicle industrial park in the city of Xuzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, a large digital screen flashes real-time data on solar power generation and carbon dioxide reduction.

    Sprawling across the park’s rooftops are 52,000 square meters of photovoltaic panels, supported by an energy storage system. Together, they form a self-sufficient microgrid that generates nearly 7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually — enough to power the entire park.

    “This clean energy solution replaces 2,800 tonnes of coal consumption while cutting carbon emissions by about 7,500 tonnes every year,” said Zhang Dong, a technician at the State Grid Xuzhou Power Supply Company, noting that companies in the park could save over 20 percent on energy costs.

    Zhang added that demand for microgrid projects is surging in industrial parks across China, as companies see them as a way to help cut costs and transition toward greener growth.

    A microgrid is a localized power network typically composed of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, alongside energy storage systems. These systems can operate independently or in sync with the main power grid, making them flexible, environmentally friendly and stable.

    China has channeled substantial investment into microgrids. According to the action plan on accelerating the construction of new power systems, local governments are encouraged to build smart microgrid projects that cater to regional needs. The country’s 14th five-year plan for modern energy systems also underscores the importance of microgrid construction.

    More than 300 green microgrid projects are currently operational or under construction in the industrial sector, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

    One of the leaders in the construction boom is the city of Changzhou in Jiangsu, both a manufacturing hub and a major new energy base. It has already launched nearly 40 microgrid projects and plans to increase the number to 300 by the end of 2027.

    “The microgrid expansion is both a result and a driver of China’s energy transformation,” said Zhang. “The falling costs of wind and solar power have made it feasible, while the decentralized energy model enhances grid stability and ensures cleaner power is available where it’s needed most.”

    China is steadily advancing toward its dual carbon goals of peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. In the first quarter of 2025, newly installed wind and solar power capacity reached 74.33 million kilowatts, bringing the cumulative installed capacity to 1.482 billion kilowatts, surpassing coal-fired capacity for the first time, according to the National Energy Administration.

    In many densely populated Chinese cities like Suzhou in Jiangsu, where energy demand is high but land is scarce, centralized solar farms are not a viable option. Instead, distributed solar generation coupled with smart microgrids has emerged as the optimal approach to sustainable urban development.

    “Microgrids offer tremendous advantages in remote islands, deserts and areas where grid coverage is limited or electricity demand is high,” said Chen Hao, an associate professor at Renmin University of China.

    Suzhou’s microgrid system can now regulate over 20,000 kilowatts daily. During peak demand periods, these networks can achieve short-term self-balancing, supplying power to more than 5,000 households.

    Microgrids are also making energy management smarter. In many highway service areas across China, prime locations for microgrid deployment, AI-powered systems are used to optimize the real-time allocation of clean energy for electric vehicle charging based on traffic volume and weather conditions.

    A highway service area in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province, has recently launched a smart microgrid featuring solar power, energy storage, fast-charging stations, and battery-swap infrastructure for light trucks. The system can dynamically allocate green electricity to meet the demand of vehicle charging services.

    “After years of development, microgrids are going beyond technological research and development to commercial applications,” said Tang Xisheng, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    “We can expect to see their footprint expand across more industrial parks, residential communities, and rural regions in the future,” Tang added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Greater openness, diverse offerings attract global tourists to relish real China

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

    Tourists from Australia pose for photos at the Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park in Beijing, capital of China, May 1, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    From viral social media buzz to rising foot traffic at immigration counters, global enthusiasm for “China Travel” continued to soar this year as an increasing number of travelers head to China to savor the country’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage and modern dynamism.

    As China rolls out a wave of initiatives aimed at making travel to the country easier and more immersive for international visitors, a new era of inbound tourism is emerging — one that is unfiltered, inclusive and rich in cultural depth.

    In the first quarter of 2025, China recorded 17.44 million entries and exits by foreign nationals, marking a 33.4 percent year-on-year rise. From May 1 to 5, which coincided with China’s May Day holiday, foreign entries and exits reached 1.12 million, up 43.1 percent compared to the same period last year.

    So, what is fueling this growing appeal? What new trends are shaping travel in China? And what steps lie ahead as the country continues to enhance cross-border mobility to attract more global tourists?

    These questions were front and center in the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, where a panel of policymakers and a tourism industry insider shared their insights.

    Foreign tourists visit the Tianjin Ancient Culture Street in Tianjin, north China, May 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ran)

    FRESH EXPERIENCES

    During the discussion, Shi Zeyi, deputy head of the international exchanges and cooperation bureau under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, pointed to a notable shift among inbound tourists toward independent travel and more diverse itineraries, highlighting how interest is expanding beyond traditional hotspots like Beijing and Shanghai to lesser-known regions across China.

    This trend is supported by data from major Chinese travel platforms. According to a report from Qunar, cities like Zhuhai, Qingdao, and Wuhan saw hotel bookings by foreign travelers surge by 70 percent, 60 percent, and 50 percent year on year, respectively, during the five-day May Day holiday. Meanwhile, smaller cities such as Suzhou, Huzhou and Foshan also made the list of the top 20 inbound destinations.

    Chiming in, Qin Jing, vice president of Ctrip, noted that booking patterns on the online travel platform during the same period suggest a broader shift from basic sightseeing and landmark visits to more immersive, hands-on cultural experiences.

    “Many foreign visitors are now engaging in activities like learning tea brewing in Wuyishan, watching face-changing performances in Chengdu, or crafting porcelain in Jingdezhen,” Qin said.

    These insights are consistent with a recent survey by the China Tourism Academy, which found that over 60 percent of respondents cited experiencing Chinese culture as their primary reason for visiting the country.

    Amid the travel boom, shopping has also taken center stage after China introduced new measures to optimize its departure tax refund policy in late April, including lowering the minimum purchase threshold for refunds, expanding the network of participating stores, and widening the range of products available.

    Ctrip data revealed that inbound travel bookings for popular shopping hubs like Shanghai, Shenzhen and Yiwu increased by 138 percent, 188 percent, and 60 percent year on year, respectively, during the May Day holiday.

    Speakers also highlighted the powerful role of social media in driving interest in China. Viral videos of high-speed trains, AI-powered hotel robots, and everyday scenes of modern Chinese life, posted by visiting foreign travel influencers and tourists, have offered unfiltered views of China, breaking down stereotypes.

    “Seeing is believing,” said Liu Jia, an official with the National Immigration Administration (NIA). “When people experience China firsthand, they are better positioned to overcome misunderstandings and appreciate the country for what it truly is — open, inclusive, prosperous, safe and well-ordered.”

    A border inspection officer guides foreign tourists at Sunan Shuofang International Airport in Wuxi, east China’s Jiangsu Province, May 3, 2025. (Photo by Zhu Jipeng/Xinhua)

    EXPANDING ACCESS

    Despite the influence of social media and enhancements like the improved departure tax refund policy, guest speakers emphasized that China’s recent surge in inbound travel is primarily driven by its ongoing efforts to expand access for international visitors. And this momentum continues to build steadily.

    China’s visa policies have been continuously adjusted and optimized. Since late 2023, China has introduced an expanding suite of traveler-friendly policies. In its latest move, the country announced last week that nationals of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay will be eligible for visa-free entry starting June 1. Currently, the country grants unilateral visa-free entry to 38 countries.

    China has also extended the transit visa-free period to 240 hours for travelers from 54 countries.

    These measures have significantly boosted cross-border exchanges between China and other countries, leading to an immediate impact: in 2024, China recorded 20.12 million visa-free entries, marking an impressive 112.3 percent surge compared to the previous year. During this year’s May Day holiday, there were 380,000 visa-free entries, representing a 72.7 percent year-on-year growth.

    According to Tong Xuejun, an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China will negotiate additional visa-waiver agreements and work to improve the online visa application system for foreigners.

    Liu, from the NIA, added that the immigration administration will continue coordinating with other departments to make it easier for foreigners to enter, stay, and travel in China.

    A staff member provides departure tax refund service for a tourist from Russia at a shopping center in Beijing, capital of China, April 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    Acknowledging the diversity of global travelers, Shi noted that the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is promoting tailored offerings to cater to different groups, ranging from young backpackers and business travelers to senior tourists. These include educational tours, wellness retreats, and seasonal products such as ski holidays and summer getaways.

    To stimulate inbound tourism spending, China will expand the number of duty-free shops and broaden the selection of products eligible for instant tax refunds, especially focusing on high-tech gadgets like smartphones, smartwatches and drones, Shi added.

    In 2024, 132 million inbound visits to China generated 94.2 billion U.S. dollars in revenue, recovering to over 97.2 percent and 93.5 percent, respectively, of pre-pandemic levels.

    Cities across China are enhancing services to facilitate inbound tourism. For example, Beijing has launched a free half-day tour for international transit passengers, offering a glimpse of traditional Chinese culture at landmarks such as Qianmen and the Temple of Heaven.

    Qin from Ctrip said the company is enhancing services for inbound tourists by training multilingual tour guides, partnering with foreign travel influencers for promotions, and introducing new offerings such as immersive cultural and dining experiences.

    Wrapping up the discussion, Tong emphasized the importance of collaborative feedback. He said the government welcomes suggestions from tourism businesses and is equally eager to hear from various international travelers. “So we can work together to further enhance the China travel experience.”

    “As China continues to open its doors wider, the ‘China Travel’ brand will only shine brighter on the world stage,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Raskin, Jayapal, Crockett, Scanlon, Nadler, Johnson, McBath, Statement on DOJ Targeting of Representative McIver

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    Washington, D.C. (May 19, 2025)—Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Judiciary, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, Rep. Hank Johnson, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet, and Rep. Lucy McBath, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance, released the following statement following the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) unfounded targeting of Rep. LaMonica McIver:

    “The targeting of Representative McIver is a blatant attempt to intimidate Members of Congress and to block our oversight of this administration’s actions, which have been enjoined more than 150 times by federal courts. We stand by Representative McIver’s exercise of her constitutional rights and duties. If you come for the legal rights of one of us, you come for the rights of all of us.

    “Members of Congress have the right to conduct oversight, full stop — whether that’s holding Cabinet officials accountable or visiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. Representative McIver was performing her proper oversight role, a role she was elected by the American people to do — and even participated in a one-hour tour after the incident occurred.

    “Charging Members of Congress for doing our jobs is a dangerous precedent to set. It reveals the increasingly authoritarian nature of this Administration and its relentless, illegal attempts to suppress any dissent or oversight, including from judges, Members of Congress, and the American people, which check lawless executive power. Representative McIver has our full support, and we will do everything in our power to help fight this outrageous threat to our constitutional system.”

    Background:

    Section 527 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 118-47) explicitly states that the Department of Homeland Security cannot prevent Members of Congress from “entering, for the purpose of conducting oversight, any facility operated by or for the Department of Homeland Security used to detain or otherwise house aliens […]. The law goes on to state that “Nothing in this section may be construed to require a Member of Congress to provide prior notice of the intent to enter a facility […] for the purpose of conducting oversight.”

    Issues: Civil Rights, Government Reform & Ethics

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Asian economies unite to counter ‘American risks’

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Xiang Haoyu, a visiting fellow at the Department of Asia-Pacific Studies at the China Institute of International Studies, believes that tariff barriers and protectionism pose severe challenges to Asia’s economic growth. However, with its strong development resilience and consensus on unity and cooperation, the Asian region is poised to play a key role in the new round of reconstruction of the global economic order and continue to provide strong incentives for the stable growth of the world economy.

    According to a report by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in 2024, the global economy of Asia will account for 49%, and its contribution to the world economy will reach 60%. Not only does Asia account for 53% of the total value added of world GDP in the manufacturing sector, Asia is also increasingly dominant in the high-tech sector. In the future, Asia is expected to continue to play a driving role in global economic growth through the expansion of the intra-regional market, industrial upgrading, technological innovation, and regional economic integration.

    In the international community’s view, Asia’s growth is of utmost importance to global economic stability. In terms of the current situation, it should be noted that Asia’s economy remains highly resilient and confident in many aspects.

    Above all, Asia’s dominance in high technology and manufacturing is a key advantage in driving the global economy. In recent years, Asian technological innovations in artificial intelligence, 5G communications, and electric vehicles have injected great vitality into the global economy. Facing tariff blackmail from the US, Asia’s manufacturing supply chain, relying on its own continuity and exceptionalism, is better able to withstand the disruption of foreign policy changes, helping the region maintain its status as a global manufacturing hub.

    Second, the deepening of regional economic integration in Asia has created strong domestic momentum. The further implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is expected to increase bilateral trade between ASEAN countries and China by US$19 billion in 2025. In particular, trade in services and the digital economy will become new growth points, helping to accelerate the transformation and upgrading of the Asian economy.

    Third, protectionism and economic persecution by the United States contribute to the implementation of the strategy of diversification of Asian exports. The main economic entities of Asia are expanding the markets of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, etc., reducing their dependence on the U.S. market and at the same time increasing their capabilities in the field of global economic integration. Most transnational corporations with comprehensive development in Asia are also adapting to changes, overcoming risks and rebuilding their own global development strategies. The vast majority of them will not only not leave Asia, but will also strive for deeper integration with the local Asian market, stimulating domestic demand in Asia and accelerating their global deployment.

    Fourth, Asia’s intra-regional market potential will continue to be stimulated, which will help achieve more balanced growth. With Asia’s total population exceeding 4 billion, huge domestic demand will support sustainable economic growth.

    Faced with a highly uncertain external environment, Asian countries are reaching new agreements, agreeing that only unity and cooperation can effectively address external challenges.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 298

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL8

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 298
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    825 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    West-Central and Southern Illinois
    Southern into Central and Eastern Missouri

    * Effective this Monday night and Tuesday morning from 825 PM
    until 300 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Widespread damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 80 mph possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple clusters and supercells will spread northeastward
    this evening and overnight while posing a threat for both tornadoes
    and severe/damaging winds. An intense/bowing line of thunderstorms
    will likely develop later this evening and pose a greater threat for
    widespread severe winds, with peak gusts potentially reaching up to
    70-80 mph on an isolated basis. Occasional large hail up to 1-2
    inches in diameter may also occur with any semi-discrete supercells.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 110 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 45 miles north northwest of Saint Louis
    MO to 20 miles southeast of West Plains MO. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU8).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 294…WW 295…WW
    296…WW 297…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 70 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Gleason

    SEL8

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 298
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    825 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    West-Central and Southern Illinois
    Southern into Central and Eastern Missouri

    * Effective this Monday night and Tuesday morning from 825 PM
    until 300 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Widespread damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 80 mph possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple clusters and supercells will spread northeastward
    this evening and overnight while posing a threat for both tornadoes
    and severe/damaging winds. An intense/bowing line of thunderstorms
    will likely develop later this evening and pose a greater threat for
    widespread severe winds, with peak gusts potentially reaching up to
    70-80 mph on an isolated basis. Occasional large hail up to 1-2
    inches in diameter may also occur with any semi-discrete supercells.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 110 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 45 miles north northwest of Saint Louis
    MO to 20 miles southeast of West Plains MO. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU8).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 294…WW 295…WW
    296…WW 297…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 70 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW8
    WW 298 TORNADO IL MO 200125Z – 200800Z
    AXIS..110 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    45NNW STL/SAINT LOUIS MO/ – 20SE UNO/WEST PLAINS MO/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 95NM E/W /31NNW STL – 41NW ARG/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..70 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 39338863 36538963 36539360 39339275

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU8.

    Watch 298 Status Report Messages:

    STATUS REPORT #1 ON WW 298

    VALID 200130Z – 200240Z

    THE SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES ACROSS THE ENTIRE WATCH AREA.

    ..BROYLES..05/20/25

    ATTN…WFO…PAH…LSX…SGF…

    &&

    STATUS REPORT FOR WT 298

    SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

    ILC003-005-013-027-051-055-061-077-081-083-087-117-119-121-133-
    135-145-153-157-163-181-189-199-200240-

    IL
    . ILLINOIS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    ALEXANDER BOND CALHOUN
    CLINTON FAYETTE FRANKLIN
    GREENE JACKSON JEFFERSON
    JERSEY JOHNSON MACOUPIN
    MADISON MARION MONROE
    MONTGOMERY PERRY PULASKI
    RANDOLPH ST. CLAIR UNION
    WASHINGTON WILLIAMSON
    $$

    MOC007-009-017-019-023-027-029-031-035-043-051-055-059-065-067-
    071-073-077-091-093-099-105-113-123-125-131-133-135-137-139-141-
    143-149-151-153-157-161-163-169-173-179-181-183-186-187-189-201-
    203-207-209-213-215-219-221-223-225-229-510-200240-

    MO
    . MISSOURI COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

    AUDRAIN BARRY BOLLINGER
    BOONE BUTLER CALLAWAY
    CAMDEN CAPE GIRARDEAU CARTER
    CHRISTIAN COLE CRAWFORD
    DALLAS DENT DOUGLAS
    FRANKLIN GASCONADE GREENE
    HOWELL IRON JEFFERSON
    LACLEDE LINCOLN MADISON
    MARIES MILLER MISSISSIPPI
    MONITEAU MONROE MONTGOMERY
    MORGAN NEW MADRID OREGON
    OSAGE OZARK PERRY
    PHELPS PIKE PULASKI
    RALLS REYNOLDS RIPLEY
    ST. CHARLES STE. GENEVIEVE ST. FRANCOIS
    ST. LOUIS SCOTT SHANNON
    STODDARD STONE TANEY
    TEXAS WARREN WASHINGTON
    WAYNE WEBSTER WRIGHT

    MISSOURI INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE

    ST. LOUIS CITY
    $$

    THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
    REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
    INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
    CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
    $$

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    High (70%)

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

    Mod (40%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (50%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: EPC summit ends in multiple challenges

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

    Attendees chat during the 6th European Political Community (EPC) Summit in Tirana, Albania, May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Amid rising political and economic pressures, the sixth summit of the European Political Community (EPC) concluded in Tirana on Friday with few substantive results.

    Themed “New Europe in a new world: unity – cooperation – joint action,” the summit marked the EPC’s first gathering in the Western Balkans. Yet, despite mounting calls for solidarity, deep divisions and growing anxieties were difficult to settle.

    Around 50 national and regional leaders, as well as heads of European Union (EU) and international institutions, gathered in the Albanian capital, facing an array of unresolved issues ranging from enlargement fatigue and economic headwinds to migration dilemmas and pressing security concerns.

    Strategic anxiety

    Launched by French President Emmanuel Macron in May 2022, the EPC was intended to serve as a platform for policy coordination and political dialogue among European countries.

    Three years on, however, that vision appears increasingly strained.

    As transatlantic divisions deepen, particularly over the Ukraine conflict, European nations are increasingly grappling with the implications of a diminished American commitment.

    Agathe Demarais, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said that Europe is not a priority for the United States. “I don’t think that in any field — be it trade or defense or anything else,” she said.

    Faruk Boric, a political analyst from Bosnia and Herzegovina, said that for many years, the EU had followed the United States in terms of external politics. “But nowadays you can see that (U.S. President Donald) Trump is trying to make America great again without the EU,” he said.

    Europe’s economic concerns are also growing as a new wave of U.S. tariffs poses a serious challenge to sustaining growth and enhancing competitiveness. Negotiations between the EU and the United States on related issues have yet to yield a breakthrough.

    The EU is currently facing a 25 percent U.S. import tariff on steel, aluminum and automobiles, along with a 10 percent baseline duty on nearly all other goods. In April, Washington announced a 20 percent “reciprocal tariff” on EU products, which was later postponed for 90 days.

    Migration remains another intractable issue. The EU faces both illegal migration flows and labor shortages, creating both political and logistical strain. Recent discussions have broadened to include legal migration pathways, cooperation with countries of origin and transit, and managing so-called “weaponized” migration.

    Divisions persist among EPC-participating countries on migration-related issues. There is no consensus over the proposal of offshore deportation centers or to provide greater facilitation for admitting more young migrants.

    More symbolic than substantive

    Now in its sixth edition, the EPC still lacks a permanent secretariat, formal declarations or binding commitments. While it provides a flexible platform for dialogue, critics argue that a loose structure limits its political impact.

    “The EPC has become little more than a photo-op of unity,” said He Zhigao, associate researcher with the Institute of European Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. “It can neither replace the EU nor NATO. It offers no real public goods like security guarantees or economic aid, and it lacks the power to advance meaningful EU enlargement.”

    Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, who co-chaired the meeting, called for a broader vision for the EPC beyond defense. “Why not imagine an EPC of education, science, and artificial intelligence and transnational lines beyond weaponry? A terrain of interconnected sources of knowledge, research and innovation, where Non-EU or Not-Yet-EU territories can become new frontiers for investments, free from bureaucracy, regulations and fiscal burdens…” he said.

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized at the summit Europe’s responsibility to pursue unity despite diversity, noting that Western Balkan countries “must have a clear perspective for integration.”

    However, no concrete steps toward accession were taken during the summit, once again leaving candidate countries in a state of waiting.

    With no non-EU country volunteering to host the 2026 summit, doubts about the EPC’s long-term viability continue to grow. As the European Policy Centre warned, “without reform, the EPC risks becoming irrelevant.”

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese economy shows strong resilience despite pressure

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

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 25, 2025 shows a cargo ship navigating at Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s economy withstood pressure and maintained stable growth, continuing on a path of positive development amid internal challenges and increasing external shocks, an official of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Monday.

    NBS spokesperson Fu Linghui said at a press conference that the fundamentally positive outlook for China’s economy has not changed, and there are several favorable conditions for sustained economic recovery.

    China’s retail sales of consumer goods, a major indicator of the country’s consumption strength, expanded 5.1 percent year on year in April to 3.72 trillion yuan (about 517.27 billion U.S. dollars), NBS data showed.

    From January to April, the retail sales of consumer goods rose 4.7 percent year on year, accelerating from the 4.6-percent growth in the first three months, according to the NBS.

    In the first four months, the index of services production grew by 5.9 percent year on year, 0.1 percentage points faster than that of the first quarter, according to the NBS data.

    In April, the total value of goods imports and exports reached 3.84 trillion yuan, an increase of 5.6 percent year on year, the data showed. From January to April, the import and export volume of general trade grew by 0.6 percent year on year, accounting for 64 percent of the total trade value.

    In the first four months, private enterprises saw a year-on-year increase of 6.8 percent in imports and exports, representing 56.9 percent of the overall trade volume, an increase of 2.3 percentage points compared to the same period last year.

    China’s fixed-asset investment went up 4 percent year on year in the first four months of 2025 to 14.7 trillion yuan, the latest NBS data showed. Excluding the property sector, the country’s fixed-asset investment grew 8 percent year on year during this period.

    During the period, infrastructure investment rose 5.8 percent year on year, while manufacturing investment increased 8.8 percent, the data indicated.

    Driven by China’s consumer goods trade-in program, sales of home appliances and audio equipment surged by 38.8 percent last month, and sales of cultural and office goods jumped by 33.5 percent, according to the NBS.

    “In April, the combined retail sales of consumer goods related to trade-ins, including household appliances and audio-visual equipment, cultural and office supplies, furniture, communication equipment, and building and decoration materials, contributed to a 1.4 percentage point increase in the total retail sales of consumer goods,” Fu said.

    In April, the added value of the high-tech manufacturing industry increased by 10 percent year on year, surpassing the overall industrial growth rate by 3.9 percentage points.

    China’s shift toward intelligent and green development is gaining momentum, said Fu. In April, the added value of the intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing sector surged by 74.2 percent, while the production of new energy vehicles rose by 38.9 percent.

    “Breakthroughs in advanced technology fields such as large AI models and humanoid robots will further promote industrial upgrading and development,” Fu said.

    Bolstered by multiple favorable factors, China’s economy is expected to maintain stable performance and steady growth momentum, said the spokesperson.

    He added that the significant reduction of bilateral tariffs between China and the United States is beneficial for trade growth between the two countries and global economic recovery.

    However, the current international environment remains complex and challenging, with a rise in unilateralism and protectionism posing serious challenges to the international economic and trade order and hindering global economic growth, Fu noted.

    “But the trend of international cooperation for win-win outcomes will not change, and China’s commitment to expanding its opening up will remain steadfast,” he said.

    The country’s efforts to diversify its foreign trade are progressing steadily, with policies aimed at promoting foreign trade development delivering continuous results, Fu said, adding that these measures are expected to continue supporting the stable growth of China’s foreign trade. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Colleagues Demand Action to Prevent Corporations From Jacking Up Prices On Top of Trump Tariffs’ Price Hikes 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined House and Senate colleagues in sending a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) urging them to investigate which big corporations are using the Trump tariffs as an excuse to raise prices in excess of actual cost increases caused by the President’s tariffs, and to prosecute individuals and companies that price gouge American consumers.
    “President Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs build an especially fertile environment for price-gouging. The new tariffs have created a cloud of uncertainty that gives companies cover to raise prices on all goods, regardless of whether they are subject to new tariffs or whether their costs have meaningfully increased, above and beyond what is necessary to cover any cost increases,” the members wrote.  
    “Armed with the knowledge that the FTC has turned a blind eye to this price-gouging tactic, companies now have free rein to use surveillance pricing to price gouge consumers. A former FTC official said, ‘The message that is coming out of this administration…is that the watchdog is gone and companies feel emboldened to rip people off.’ We urge you to fulfill your public commitment and to ensure President Trump’s trade war is not a ‘green light’ for price gouging,” concluded the members.
    You can read the full text of the letter HERE.
    Senator Rosen is working to lower costs and protect American consumers. Earlier this year, she sent a letter to the FTC expressing concern over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by corporations to target individuals with different prices for the same products through surveillance pricing. Senator Rosen was also part of a letter pressing the Trump Administration on how mass firings at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will hurt Nevada families. She has also introduced legislation to crack down on price gouging by corporate investors who are driving up housing prices. Last Congress, Senator Rosen successfully pushed the FTC to block the Kroger-Albertsons grocery store mega merger because it could reduce competition and raise grocery prices.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Alchera X Strengthens Partnership with WatchTowers to Deliver Internationally Acclaimed AI-Powered Premium Wildfire Detection Across Australia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alchera X (“AX”), a leading AI SaaS company specializing in visual and facial recognition technologies, is proud to highlight the success of its strategic partnership with Australia-based WatchTowers Network, a pioneer in emergency response technology. At the heart of this collaboration is FireScout, Alchera X’s cutting-edge AI system for real-time wildfire smoke detection—now a trusted tool in emergency operations centers across multiple continents.

    What began three years ago as a promising integration effort to save property and lives in Australia, has matured into a fully operational, field-tested system that is transforming the way emergency services detect and respond to wildfires. Leveraging WatchTowers’ situational awareness platform, WatchTowers Command, FireScout has successfully been monitoring thousands of square miles 24/7, delivering automated wildfire detection alerts to first responders, that save precious minutes when every second counts.

    “We built FireScout with one goal in mind: to give emergency responders critical time and insight to act before wildfires escalate,” said Michael Plaksin, President & CEO of Alchera X. “Our partnership with WatchTowers proves that when advanced AI is combined with operational expertise, the result is smarter, faster, and more effective fire detection with 99.9% accuracy.”

    Real-World Impact

    Through rigorous real-world testing supported by the Minderoo Foundation, FireScout has been deployed in over 1,000 fire events, demonstrating exceptional accuracy in diverse conditions—including remote terrain, nighttime operations, and long-distance detection up to 37 miles (60 km) from a WatchTowers station. The system significantly reduces false positives by learning continuously from every confirmed or dismissed fire, increasing and improving the system’s accuracy over time.

    As an example, FireScout detected smoke 10 minutes before emergency services were alerted via 911 in Sonoma County, California —offering emergency responders a critical window (or what’s known as “Golden Minutes”) to quickly react and help save property and lives.

    Seamless Integration and Trusted Reliability

    FireScout was meticulously integrated into the WatchTowers Command platform, allowing AI-generated alerts to trigger automated workflows—such as hazard flagging, camera zoom-ins, and inter-agency coordination—without manual intervention. The result is a streamlined response system that empowers teams to focus on action rather than surveillance.

    As noted regarding WatchTowers’ recent press release:

    “FireScout’s performance speaks for itself, but what truly sets Alchera X apart is their hands-on, solution-focused approach. From day one, they collaborated with us to help us overcome integration challenges and streamline the user experience for frontline teams. Their commitment to partnership—not just their premium wildfire detection product—has been instrumental in delivering real-world impact. We’re proud to work alongside them as a trusted technology partner.”

    Global Reach, Expanding Impact

    AX has already deployed its FireScout technology in the United States & Canada, Australia & the APAC Region, as well as parts of Europe, and are working with several partners to expand globally. FireScout was recently showcased at the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Conference in Reno over the past few years to global acclaim. Its versatility and reliability make it a cornerstone technology for agencies seeking to modernize their wildfire detection strategies.

    FireScout leads the charge in real-time smoke detection, empowering emergency services with earlier, smarter alerts. Alchera X is an AI SaaS company based in Los Angeles, specializing in real-time visual and facial recognition solutions. One of its premier products, FireScout, leverages advanced machine learning to detect wildfires through live video analysis, helping emergency services act quickly and decisively. Alchera X is dedicated to safeguarding people, property, and ecosystems through innovation that makes a real-world difference protecting over 5 million square miles globally.

    As climate volatility drives more frequent and intense fire seasons, Alchera X is committed to advancing the capabilities of FireScout—making it faster, more adaptable, and easier to deploy across new regions and networks around the world.

    About WatchTowers
    WatchTowers Network builds real-time intelligence systems that help emergency agencies coordinate fast and effective responses. Its flagship platform, WatchTowers Command, brings together visual feeds, detection tools, and operational workflows into one seamless interface designed for high-stakes decision-making.

    About AX
    Founded in 2016, AX is an artificial intelligence Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company that has developed award-winning proprietary technology in the areas of facial and visual artificial intelligence (AI) including facial recognition, wildfire detection, augmented reality, and more. AX develops and distributes innovative products that enhance safety and security across various industries worldwide.

    AX’s FireScout product provides artificial intelligence to utilize visual recognition in real time on a 24/7/365 basis for wildfire detection. Our technology seamlessly integrates into existing camera/monitor systems. We offer the most informative, effective, and supportive user interface system in the market today. Our AI has been used on over 1,000 cameras throughout the Western United States and is considered to be the de facto standard in AI.

    Join the Conversation: Follow us on LinkedIn – AX and FireScout, Twitter and YouTube.

    Media Contact:
    Palak Kapasi
    Head of Marketing & Public Relations, AX
    AXmedia@alcherainc.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/24a2e04f-8574-488c-8a71-751920111ae0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c2c22c9-3070-4486-a005-49b40eed5cf5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ce8dedbf-f95c-41c2-bf3f-bb82abca7c2c

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: AI Generated Books Unveils the Lucky Trigger: A Groundbreaking AI-Generated Spy Thriller

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AI Generated Books, an advanced artificial intelligence, proudly announces the release of The Lucky Trigger, an espionage thriller entirely generated its technology. This novel marks a significant milestone in the fusion of AI and creative writing, offering readers a unique storytelling experience.

    The Lucky Trigger immerses readers in a high-stakes world of espionage, where secrets and suspense intertwine. Crafted by an AI program developed by Rebecca Briggs, the novel showcases the potential of machine-generated narratives to captivate and engage audiences.

    “Our goal was to explore the boundaries of AI in creative fields,” says Briggs. “The Lucky Trigger demonstrates how artificial intelligence can contribute to storytelling, opening new avenues for literature.”

    In addition to releasing The Lucky Trigger, AI Generated Books has developed a proprietary software platform powered by a large language model (LLM) designed to interpret, summarize, and even communicate with AI-generated books. This breakthrough tool allows readers, educators, and developers to engage with AI-written literature in new ways—analyzing themes, generating discussions, and even extracting context-based responses from within the narrative.

    This innovation marks the beginning of a new frontier for AI-assisted storytelling and educational tools – bridging the gap between static fiction and interactive media.

    Download The Lucky Trigger:

    https://books2read.com/u/ba90r2 (.MOBI)

    https://dub.sh/shift4 (.EPUB)

    For media inquiries, interviews, or more information about upcoming projects, please contact:

    Rebecca Briggs

    Email: rebeccabriggs@aigeneratedbooks.org

    Website: https://aigeneratedbooks.org

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Wicker Helping Maintain America’s AI Edge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    For decades, most Americans thought of artificial intelligence (AI) as a make-believe character in science fiction movies. Now, the future has arrived. We are adjusting to a world full of AI.
    Artificial intelligence is with us at the doctor’s office, helping detect cancer during our annual screenings. Companies use AI to support self-driving vehicles. On Facebook, users debate whether video clips are authentic or are eerily believable “deepfakes.” ChatGPT notoriously allows students to produce illicit term papers in seconds. On the battlefield, AI lets soldiers quickly analyze enemy activity. I could go on – to AI’s applications in finance, agriculture, manufacturing, and more.
    The Risks and Rewards of AI
    Those capabilities make people both excited and troubled. We call this intelligence “artificial” because scientists create it. They use math to teach computers how to solve problems and recognize patterns. Americans recognize that AI has nearly unlimited potential to benefit humanity. But the technology also raises difficult questions about privacy and job security.
    Even the recently-elected pope understands these concerns. In his first address to the world, Pope Leo XIV said this rapidly developing technology raises, “new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.” I believe the pope is right to recognize the high stakes. To use AI wisely, we need input from leaders in the church, government, academia, and the private sector.
    In the U.S. Senate, my colleagues and I are working to balance the risks and rewards of AI. Earlier this year, we acted to protect Americans from some of the harmful uses of the technology. Congress passed and President Trump signed into law a bill called the Take It Down Act. A key part of that law sets punishments for those who use AI to create certain pornographic deepfakes.
    Beat China in the AI Race
    The Take It Down Act demonstrates the unfortunate fact that individuals can misuse AI to devastating effect. The same is true for our adversaries. For the past two decades, the Chinese Communist Party has been pouring trillions of dollars into its military, trying to challenge the United States in hard power. It has also been investing in cyber capabilities such as AI.
    The United States is – and can remain – ahead of the Chinese Communist Party’s technological ambitions. But we must act quickly to keep America’s edge. Simply put, if we do not win the AI race, China will – directly threatening our national security.
    To Win, Unleash American Innovation
    America is poised to succeed in AI because we have the world’s most dynamic talent, research, and business ecosystem. The government should do what it can to facilitate that marketplace. Any government regulations on AI must begin with a “light touch” so that innovators can experiment, prototype, and compete. In this way, we mirror the approach the government took with the internet, allowing that technology to grow and develop in the United States.
    Unfortunately, President Biden took the opposite approach. In the final week of his term, officials set new rules that would have handicapped the supply chain for chips and semiconductors, which power AI. The rule would have gone into effect this month, weakening the American companies helping us win the technology race.
    My Republican colleagues and I encouraged President Trump to block the heavy-handed rule, and he did so this month. The president replaced that Biden-era policy with a framework that makes the United States and our allies more competitive again.
    On that positive note, it seems fitting to conclude with a summary written by ChatGPT: “America has always led the world in innovation. From the lightbulb to the moon landing to the internet, we have proven time and again that freedom fosters invention. AI should be no different.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar’s Bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act Signed into Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) announced that their bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act was signed into law.
     The TAKE IT DOWN Act criminalizes the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated NCII, and requires social media and similar websites to have in place procedures to remove such content within 48 hours of notice from a victim.
    “Passing the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law is a major victory for victims of online abuse – giving people legal protections and tools for when their intimate images, including deepfakes, are shared without their consent, and enabling law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “This is also a landmark move towards establishing common-sense rules of the road around social media and AI. Thank you to the victims, advocates, and law enforcement officials who have banded together to work with Senator Cruz and me to pass this legislation. The support of the First Lady has been key to this effort, and I am glad the President is signing this historic bill into law.”
    “The TAKE IT DOWN ACT is an historic win for victims of revenge porn and deepfake image abuse. Predators who weaponize new technology to post this exploitative filth will now rightfully face criminal consequences, and Big Tech will no longer be allowed to turn a blind eye to the spread of this vile material,” said Sen. Cruz.  “This day stands as a powerful testament to the bravery and dedication of Elliston Berry, Francesca Mani, Breeze Liu, and Brandon Guffey, whose relentless advocacy made this law possible. I am deeply grateful to my legislative partners, particularly Sen. Amy Klobuchar and First Lady Melania Trump, for their collaboration in advancing this critical legislation to protect every American’s privacy and dignity online.”
    The TAKE IT DOWN Act protects and empowers victims of real and deepfake NCII while respecting speech by:
    Criminalizing the publication of NCII in interstate commerce. The bill makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish, or threaten to publish, NCII on social media and other online platforms. NCII is defined to include realistic, computer-generated pornographic images and videos that depict identifiable, real people. The bill also clarifies that a victim consenting to the creation of an authentic image does not mean that the victim has consented to its publication. 
    Protecting good-faith efforts to assist victims. The bill permits the good-faith disclosure of NCII, such as to law enforcement, in narrow cases.  
    Requiring websites to take down NCII upon notice from the victim. Social media and other websites would be required to have in place procedures to remove NCII, pursuant to a valid request from a victim, within 48 hours. Websites must also make reasonable efforts to remove copies of the images. The FTC is charged with enforcement of this section.  
    Protecting lawful speech. The bill is narrowly tailored to criminalize knowingly publishing NCII without chilling lawful speech. The bill conforms to current First Amendment jurisprudence by requiring that computer-generated NCII meet a “reasonable person” test for appearing indistinguishable from an authentic image.
    The legislation was co-sponsored by Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Barrasso (R-WY), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Ted Budd (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Todd Young (R-IN), John Curtis (R-UT), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Gary Peters (D-MI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Great to have Jensen Huang at Build to talk about our partnership and how we are building and scaling the largest AI supercomputer in the world on Azure. Watch our full conversation here.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Great to have Jensen Huang at Build to talk about our partnership and how we are building and scaling the largest AI supercomputer in the world on Azure. Watch our full conversation here.

    Transcript

    Thank you so much, Jensen for joining yet again for our Build Developer conference. You were here a couple of years ago and we had a chance at that time to talk about all the great innovation you are bringing to our Azure and how customers were going to benefit. And in fact, you know that type of compounding of scarves, right, You’re innovation, our innovation coming together ultimately driving that frontier forward is just unbelievable, Satya. In fact, two years ago we had just launched. The largest AI supercomputer in the world together on Azure. And then right now as we speak, we are in full production with Grace Blackwell. We are ramping and scaling and building the largest AI supercomputer in the world in Azure. This is the insane execution of our two organizations now hyperlinked if you will, and the the beautiful thing is because of because of our natural understanding of the importance of. Reserving, enhancing developer productivity and developer value for the life of the architecture. We support software when we fine tune software for as long as we shall live. Ultimately, it’s not just tokens, but it’s all workloads per dollar per Watt. Can we really accelerate them all as we continue to innovate across both the hardware and the software boundaries and really have the compounding effects ultimately show up for our customers?

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 297

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 297
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    650 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Northern Arkansas
    Southeast and Eastern Oklahoma
    Far Northeast Texas

    * Effective this Monday night and Tuesday morning from 650 PM
    until 200 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Several tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes likely
    Widespread large hail and scattered very large hail events to
    3.5 inches in diameter likely
    Widespread damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 80
    mph likely

    SUMMARY…Multiple supercells and clusters will spread northeastward
    this evening and into the early overnight hours. Several tornadoes
    appear likely given a rather favorable environment for severe
    thunderstorms, and a couple of these should be strong to intense
    (EF2-3+). Some upscale growth is anticipated later this evening,
    with an increasing threat for numerous to widespread severe/damaging
    winds. Peak gusts may reach up to 70-80 mph. Large hail up to
    2.5-3.5 inches in diameter also appears likely with embedded
    supercells.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 95 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles east southeast of Durant OK to
    20 miles northeast of Harrison AR. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU7).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 292…WW 293…WW
    294…WW 295…WW 296…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 70 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Gleason

    SEL7

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 297
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    650 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Northern Arkansas
    Southeast and Eastern Oklahoma
    Far Northeast Texas

    * Effective this Monday night and Tuesday morning from 650 PM
    until 200 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Several tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes likely
    Widespread large hail and scattered very large hail events to
    3.5 inches in diameter likely
    Widespread damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 80
    mph likely

    SUMMARY…Multiple supercells and clusters will spread northeastward
    this evening and into the early overnight hours. Several tornadoes
    appear likely given a rather favorable environment for severe
    thunderstorms, and a couple of these should be strong to intense
    (EF2-3+). Some upscale growth is anticipated later this evening,
    with an increasing threat for numerous to widespread severe/damaging
    winds. Peak gusts may reach up to 70-80 mph. Large hail up to
    2.5-3.5 inches in diameter also appears likely with embedded
    supercells.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 95 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles east southeast of Durant OK to
    20 miles northeast of Harrison AR. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU7).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 292…WW 293…WW
    294…WW 295…WW 296…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 70 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW7
    WW 297 TORNADO AR OK TX 192350Z – 200700Z
    AXIS..95 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    50ESE DUA/DURANT OK/ – 20NE HRO/HARRISON AR/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 85NM E/W /71S MLC – 57SSE SGF/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..70 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 33669725 36469461 36469119 33669394

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

    Watch 297 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    High (80%)

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

    Mod (60%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (60%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    High (80%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Innovative Scientific and Technological Center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovative Scientific and Technological Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With the head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With the Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, and the Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma

    May 19, 2025

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Innovative Scientific and Technological Center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory”

    May 19, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Mikhail Mishustin visited the Lomonosov cluster of the Moscow State University Vorobyovy Gory Innovation Science and Technology Center. With Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, Head of the Moscow Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development Kristina Kostroma, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov

    The innovative scientific and technological center of Moscow State University “Vorobyovy Gory” is being created by the Moscow government and Lomonosov Moscow State University in pursuance of the President’s instructions to ensure conditions in Moscow for the effective development and commercialization of innovative solutions.

    The most favorable taxation and regulation regime has been created for residents of the INTC. Residents’ projects are exempt from most taxes for 10 years, including property tax, profit tax and VAT (with annual revenues of up to 1 billion rubles). Insurance contributions to state extra-budgetary funds are reduced to 14%, and foreign workers can be hired without a separate permit.

    The MSU Technological Valley will consist of 9 specialized clusters with a total area of 479 thousand square meters on a territory of 17.6 hectares.

    To date, two clusters have been put into operation: Lomonosov (created by the Moscow government) and Educational (created by Lomonosov Moscow State University). Construction has begun on two clusters (Interdisciplinary (by Lomonosov Moscow State University)) and Engineering (by attracting funds from private investors).

    The areas of scientific and technological activity carried out on the territory of the MSU Scientific and Technical Center “Vorobyovy Gory”: biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, medical and biological research and testing; nanotechnology research of new materials and nanomechanics; information technology and mathematical modeling; robotics, special-purpose technologies and machine engineering, energy saving and efficient energy storage; space research and astronautics; geonomy and ecology; interdisciplinary humanitarian research and cognitive sciences; sports, innovative sports technologies; artificial intelligence technologies.

    Residents – 294 companies.

    Results of the activities of the MSU Vorobyovy Gory Scientific and Technical Center in 2021–2023: the number of R&D projects performed by residents is 181; the number of R&D projects developed by the residents of the Scientific and Technical Center is 416.

    The Lomonosov cluster was commissioned in January 2023 and is currently 100% occupied. The selection of site residents was carried out jointly with the non-governmental development institute Innopraktika, with special attention paid to the technological component of the projects, the volume of scientific research and development of companies, as well as their demand in the market.

    Currently, there are 76 resident companies in the Lomonosov cluster.

    The cluster residents work in the following key areas: industrial technologies – 18 residents; unmanned systems – 18 residents; geotechnology and ecology – 15 residents; medicine and biotechnology – 13 residents; information technology – 12 residents.

    According to the results of 2024, the residents of the Lomonosov cluster showed the following results: investments in R&D – 2.4 billion rubles; number of patents received – 105; total number of employees – 2 thousand people; company revenue – 15 billion rubles.

    The products of the cluster residents are in demand and are used for seismic research in the Arctic seas (special hardware and software systems), production of buses, ATVs, snowmobiles and cleaning robots (electric drives), as well as for air purification in industrial buildings (innovative filters) and clinical and preclinical research, etc.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Ukraine hail scientists’ role in the fight for freedom

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK and Ukraine hail scientists’ role in the fight for freedom

    From healthcare to energy, collaboration with UK researchers is supporting Ukraine’s defence and reconstruction, and the UK’s Plan for Change.

    • From healthcare to energy, collaboration with UK researchers is supporting Ukraine’s defence and reconstruction, and the UK’s Plan for Change
    • Academic, business and political leaders gather in London later today to celebrate UK-Ukrainian joint science endeavours – and look ahead to more
    • Science, tech and innovation are a key pillar of UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership: the long-term pact to support long-term security and growth for both our countries

    The critical role that Ukraine’s scientists and researchers are playing in the battle for their country’s freedom, and its hopes for a brighter future, working hand-in-hand with UK colleagues, will be celebrated at an event at the British Academy in London later today (Tuesday 20 May).

    The UK is resolute in its support for Ukraine, as the country defends itself in the face of Russia’s illegal and barbaric invasion. Our backing is cemented by the landmark 100 Year Partnership, unveiled by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in January, of which strong and deep science and technology ties form a key part.

    Joint work by the UK and Ukraine’s researchers is not only supporting Ukraine’s freedom and future, but also unlocking benefits to the UK economy, and more besides, all of which bolsters the Plan for Change. In one joint project, on health, the University of Warwick have worked with Kharkiv National University of Radio Electronics to train AI models to quickly and accurately triage shrapnel wounds. And work by Manchester, Aston and Aberystwyth Universities and Ukrainian experts to boost Ukraine’s electricity grid with green energy, is also being applied to help Britain adapt as we get more energy from renewables, and as energy-intensive industries like data centres grow.

    Meanwhile efforts like the UK-Ukraine Techbridge are helping bring innovative new technologies to bear on critical tasks like clearing landmines and unexploded bombs. The TechBridge is also focused on AI, health, cyber security, education, and agritech, and is building opportunities in both countries for trade, upskilling, and investment.

    Much of this important work will be showcased at London’s historic British Academy later, at an event hosted by the UK’s Science Minister and Ukraine’s Deputy Minister for Education and Science, who will be joined by a host of academic, business and research leaders. Lord Vallance will announce an additional £100,000 for the UK-Ukraine Techbridge at the event, as well as £400,000 for trilateral efforts to harness digital technologies to improve government across the UK, Ukraine and Estonia.

    UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

    Freedom is an essential ingredient for scientific progress. Without it we are denied the ability to act on the curiosity that sparks so many breakthroughs, or to get the answers that make us think that maybe we have been wrong about the way we have thought about something in the past.

    Science is also international, which means that Ukraine’s inventions and innovations are ones that the UK and the entire world ultimately benefits from, and vice versa. We only stand to gain from working with Ukraine to keep the flame of freedom alive, and it is only natural, that the joint endeavours of our researchers, are critical to those efforts.

    Ukraine’s Minister for Education and Science, Oksen Lisovyi, said

    For Ukraine, science is not only about development — it is also about resistance. Today, our researchers are working side by side with international partners not only to support the country in its most difficult times, but also to lay the foundations for recovery. This collaboration is a mutual investment in freedom, humanity, and the future. We are grateful to the United Kingdom for a partnership built on shared values and trust.

    The UK-Ukraine partnership on science, innovation and technology has already delivered important work, starting with the:

    • Researchers at Risk delivered by the British Academy,
    • Council for At-Risk Academics (CARA) and
    • wider UK National Academies

    Since it was launched in 2022, it has helped over 170 Ukrainian experts endangered by the war to relocate to just under 70 UK universities, and continue their work on a temporary basis – as well as funding their research with £22.5 million. The UK Government has also supported the UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative, which has enabled Ukrainian researchers to keep making progress, despite wartime disruption, by pairing up UK and Ukrainian universities. This has provided remote access to UK facilities and equipment, and avenues for joint funding, including £5 million of Research England grant funding to support new research partnerships.

    We are also harnessing the AI, data science and digital expertise of the UK, Ukraine and Estonia with a view to enhancing digital government and public services through technology and innovation under an initiative on trilateral cooperation.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Share this page

    The following links open in a new tab

    • Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
    • Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: DEMOCRATIC STEERING AND POLICY COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS REP. BARRAGÁN, WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, AND KELLY HOLD HEARING ON IMPACT OF TRUMP TARIFFS ON SMALL BUSINESSES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

    May 8, 2025 

    Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

    DEMOCRATIC STEERING AND POLICY COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS REP. BARRAGÁN, WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, AND KELLY HOLD HEARING ON IMPACT OF TRUMP TARIFFS ON SMALL BUSINESSES

    Washington, DC – Today, the House Democratic Steering & Policy Co-Chairs, Congresswomen Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and Robin Kelly (IL-02) led a hearing on the impacts of the Trump Administration’s policies and tariffs on U.S. small businesses. The committee heard from small business owners on how Republican schemes raise their costs and make it difficult to budget, plan, or make ends meet due to rampant federal instability, cutbacks, and tariff threats.

    House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar attended the hearing and said Democrats would marshal legislative, legal and community opposition to Republican policies that stifle Main Street merchants and strangle smaller entrepreneurs.

    “Small businesses are essential to our economy — they power our communities, create jobs, and make the American Dream possible. But Donald Trump’s reckless tariffs are punishing the very people who keep our economy running. They’re forcing small business owners across the country to make impossible choices — raise prices or shut their doors,” said Rep. Barragán. “When prices go up, working families pay the price. These destructive Republican economic policies do nothing to strengthen our economy, they only lead to job losses and businesses closing their doors.” 

    “Donald Trump and Republicans, who continue in this Congress to rubber stamp his extreme agenda, are crashing the economy in real time, driving us toward a recession. Why? So that they can provide tax breaks for their billionaire donors like Elon Musk, instead of supporting small businesses,” said Leader Jeffries. “They are knowingly inflicting economic pain on hard-working entrepreneurs and small business owners. It’s unconscionable, unacceptable, and un-American. House Democrats will not quietly stand by while working families, entrepreneurs, middle-class folks, small business owners and everyday Americans are being forced to suffer at the hands of the extreme policies that are being unleashed on the American people. We will continue to push back publicly and aggressively.”

    “Small business owners and entrepreneurs keep America’s economy thriving and make life better for their customers and workers,” said Wasserman Schultz. “But Trump’s extreme economic policies have created a chaotic, confusing landscape for small businesses, with huge price hikes and a horizon filled with uncertainty, higher costs and recessionary fears.”

    “Small businesses create good jobs and drive innovation — they are they backbone of local economies,” said Kelly. “We heard directly from small business owners who are telling President Trump that his short-sighted tariffs have raised costs and created uncertainty.  Simply put, Americans — small business owners, workers, and consumers alike — will pay the cost of President Trump’s trade war at the check-out counter.”

    This year, the Steering & Policy Committee has held hearings on Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security and Veterans. Each one shared personal stories of how everyday Americans are being harmed by this administration. To continue to collect and share more of their stories, the Steering & Policy Committee will execute a series of events across the nation in the months ahead to reach the American people where they live and hear from them directly.  

    The full video of today’s hearing can be found here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: Congresswoman Barragán Leads Congressional Letter Opposing Trump Administration’s Semiconductor Tariff Proposal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 8, 2025

    Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

    Congresswoman Barragán Leads Congressional Letter Opposing Trump Administration’s Semiconductor Tariff Proposal

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) led a group of her Democratic colleagues on the House Communications and Technology Subcommittee in calling on President Donald Trump and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to abandon proposals to impose sweeping tariffs on the semiconductor industry.

    The letter, signed by House Communications and Technology Subcommittee Ranking Member Doris Matsui and subcommittee members Greg Landsman and Jennifer McClellan, warns that the proposed tariffs would increase costs for consumers, disrupt American manufacturing, undermine U.S. competition, and strain relationships with key international allies—all without achieving the stated goal of boosting domestic production.

    “These tariffs will increase the cost of essential technologies like smartphones, laptops, and broadband equipment, and will act as a direct tax on American consumers,” wrote the group of Democratic lawmakers. “The result: reduced productivity, limited access to essential tools, and slower economic growth.” 

    “Rather than resorting to punitive trade measures that risk backfiring economically and geopolitically, the United States should double down on policies that support domestic semiconductor production and strengthen our long-term competitiveness,” they continued. “We urge you to abandon these ill-conceived tariff plans and instead work with Congress, industry leaders, and international allies to bolster American innovation, secure our supply chains, and build a technology economy that serves American workers and consumers.”

    The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

    President Trump and Secretary Lutnick:

    We have serious concerns with your reported plans to impose sector-specific tariffs on semiconductor products, including chips, telecommunications equipment, and consumer electronics. These tariffs would raise prices for consumers, disrupt American manufacturing, and damage our nation’s global competitiveness—all while failing to meaningfully strengthen national security or domestic production.

    These tariffs will increase the cost of essential technologies like smartphones, laptops, and broadband equipment, and will act as a direct tax on American consumers. The result: reduced productivity, limited access to essential tools, and slower economic growth.

    The United States currently lacks the capacity to rapidly relocate large-scale technology manufacturing to our country. Structural challenges—including a shortage of workers trained in high-tech manufacturing and underdeveloped semiconductor infrastructure—make such a transition unrealistic in the short term. Tariffs will not solve these issues and could instead deepen them by inflating costs, discouraging investment, and weakening the long-term position of the United States technology industry.

    The ongoing uncertainty surrounding this tariff plan has already disrupted financial markets and injected instability into critical sectors of our economy. The technology industry depends on predictable, long-term policy—not abrupt changes that create confusion for investors, suppliers, and businesses.

    These tariffs could also provoke diplomatic fallout with some of our most trusted allies. Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, and Malaysia are potential targets for these tariffs. These are all vital partners in our technology supply chains and unnecessary tariffs could jeopardize the resilience of our supply chains and the strategic alliances that have long supported American leadership in innovation.

    Additionally, a disruption to American technology imports from allied nations could undermine the Federal Communication Commission’s efforts to implement the Secure and Trusted Networks Reimbursement (“Rip and Replace”) Program. Rip and Replace, which has received strong bipartisan, bicameral support in Congress, strengthens our national security by supporting providers who are working to replace insecure network equipment from Chinese vendors like Huawei and ZTE, while simultaneously maintaining network connectivity for consumers across the country. By disrupting global supply chains and raising the overall cost of replacing network infrastructure, the proposed tariffs could needlessly strain the Rip and Replace program’s budget and delay program implementation.

    The consequences of supply chain disruptions would also be particularly acute in the race to deploy 5G infrastructure and to lead in artificial intelligence. Access to cutting-edge components is essential to maintaining leadership in 5G, as well as in AI development. Disrupting access to these components would not only slow American progress but would also give China an unnecessary—and avoidable—strategic advantage.

    We are especially alarmed by reports that these tariffs will be enacted under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, a provision designed to protect national security. This seems incompatible with the imposition of tariffs that damage alliances and delay technological innovation – that would in fact compromise our national security. As the Department of Defense made clear in its 2022 report Securing Defense-Critical Supply Chains, disruptions to allied supply lines—particularly in microelectronics—pose a direct threat to military readiness.

    Rather than resorting to punitive trade measures that risk backfiring economically and geopolitically, the United States should double down on policies that support domestic semiconductor production and strengthen our long-term competitiveness. Congress passed the CHIPS and Science Act precisely for this purpose—to revitalize American semiconductor manufacturing, create high-quality union jobs, and reduce our dependence on foreign supply chains, especially those vulnerable to authoritarian influence or geopolitical instability.

    We urge you to abandon these ill-conceived tariff plans and instead work with Congress, industry leaders, and international allies to bolster American innovation, secure our supply chains, and build a technology economy that serves American workers and consumers.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Lightning-Fast Speeds, Massive Capacities: Crucial SSDs Elevate Gaming and Creative Endeavors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • The Crucial T710 sets a new standard with unparalleled Gen5 performance for pro gamers and creators.
    • The Crucial X10 portable SSD combines sleek style, functional durability and storage options up to 8TB. 

    TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today at Computex 2025, Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU) expanded its leadership in consumer storage by unveiling its latest high-performance SSDs — the Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD and the Crucial X10 Portable SSD. Forged from years of dedicated research and development, these next-gen SSDs redefine performance standards across the board by pushing the limits of speed, capacity and durability — powering your world at full speed. 

    “Our fastest Gen5 drive yet, the Crucial T710 SSD turbocharges gaming and creative applications,” said Dinesh Bahal, corporate vice president and general manager of Micron’s Commercial Products Group. “Meanwhile, our X10 portable drive is a powerhouse, effortlessly handling massive backups, games and photo libraries — no matter where life takes you or what it throws your way. These innovations from Crucial underscore our relentless effort to exceed our customers’ storage needs.” 

     

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    Crucial T710: Blazing fast Gen5 speed for gaming and AI 

    Leveraging cutting-edge NVMe technology and Micron’s G9 NAND, the Crucial T710 delivers unmatched Gen5 performance for pro-level gaming, creative applications and data-intensive tasks like AI. Boasting our best Gen5 speeds to date, it features up to:

    • 14,900 megabytes per second (MB/s) sequential read speeds1
    • 13,800 MB/s sequential write speeds1
    • 2.2 million random read speeds1
    • 2.3 million random write speeds 1

    The T710 delivers up to 67% more IOPs per watt than previous-generation Gen5 drives, running faster and cooler and making it ideal for PCs, laptops and workstations. The optional integrated heatsink ensures the T710 stays cool under pressure and capacity options up to 4TB2 means users have the storage space they need for their most demanding projects. 

    The increasing demands of AI applications require robust hardware for optimal performance. With its dramatically increased energy efficiency and decreased latency, the Crucial T710 is perfect for enabling real-time local data processing on AI PCs, with the speed to load a large language model from SSD to memory in under one second.3

    Crucial X10: Fast and tough portable storage to expand your digital life

    Crucial’s latest portable drive, the X10, delivers read speeds of up to 2,100 MB/s,4 twice as fast as its predecessor.5 The X10 is designed for users who need a fast, reliable and durable solution to back up and store their most important photos, games, movies, documents and more. With 4TB, 6TB and 8TB6 versions available, the Crucial X10 allows users to store massive amounts of data, including up to 500,000 4K photos, 114 games or 2.6 million MP3 files7.

    With its sleek, matte blue design, the X10 is perfect for content creators, gamers, photography hobbyists and mainstream consumers who require high-speed data transfer and ample storage capacity. Its durable design is IP65 dust- and water-resistant and drop-resistant up to 9.8 feet,8 making it a vault for your data — secure, portable and always ready.

    The T710 uses Silicon Motion’s SM2508 controller, while the X10 uses the SM2322 controller.

    “To meet the evolving demands of next-generation AI PCs, we’ve engineered our industry-leading SM2508 controller to deliver game-changing Gen5 performance combined with significant power savings compared to competitors,” said Nelson Duann, senior vice president of Silicon Motion’s Client & Automotive Storage Business. “Our close technical collaboration with Micron to turbocharge the Crucial T710 will transform the latest notebooks with extreme Gen5 performance that meets the needs of intensive applications like AI, gaming and beyond.”

    Availability: The Crucial X10 is now available for purchase through etailers, retailers and global channel partners, while T710 will be available starting in July 2025.

    Additional Resources:

    About Micron Technology, Inc.

    Micron Technology, Inc. is an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions, transforming how the world uses information to enrich life for all. With a relentless focus on our customers, technology leadership, and manufacturing and operational excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND, and NOR memory and storage products through our Micron® and Crucial® brands. Every day, the innovations that our people create fuel the data economy, enabling advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and compute-intensive applications that unleash opportunities — from the data center to the intelligent edge and across the client and mobile user experience. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), visit micron.com.

    © 2025 Micron Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. Information, products, and/or specifications are subject to change without notice. Micron, the Micron logo, and all other Micron trademarks are the property of Micron Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    1 Typical I/O performance as measured using CrystalDiskMark® with a queue depth of 512 and write cache enabled. Windows 11 Core isolation disabled for performance measurement. Fresh out-of-box (FOB) state is assumed. For performance measurement purposes, the SSD may be restored to FOB state using the secure erase command. System variations will affect measured results.

    2 Some storage capacity is used for formatting and other purposes and is not available for data storage. 1GB equals 1 billion bytes. 

    3 As tested in Micron labs using Llama 2 with 13 billion parameters,10.4GB file size and 6-bit quantization vs. the PCIe Gen4 Micron 3500 SSD.

    4 MB/s speed measured by Crucial as maximum sequential performance of device on a high-performance desktop computer with Crystal Disk Mark (version 8.0.4 for x64). Your performance may vary.

    5 Comparative speed claims measured against maximum reported speeds from Crucial X9 SSD. Your performance may vary.

    6 Some storage capacity is used for formatting and other purposes and is not available for data storage. 1GB equals 1 billion bytes. 

    7 Based on average photo size of 6MB, video at 4K/60fps in H264 format at 24GB/hr and 200GB for AAA games.

    8 Up to 3 meters without impact to data on a carpeted floor.

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Qifu Technology Announces First Quarter 2025 Unaudited Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, China, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Qifu Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: QFIN; HKEx: 3660) (“Qifu Technology” or the “Company”), a leading AI-empowered Credit-Tech platform in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Business Highlights

    • As of March 31, 2025, our platform has connected 163 financial institutional partners and 268.2 million consumers*1 with potential credit needs, cumulatively, an increase of 11.1% from 241.4 million a year ago.
    • Cumulative users with approved credit lines*2 were 58.4 million as of March 31, 2025, an increase of 11.6% from 52.3 million as of March 31, 2024.
    • Cumulative borrowers with successful drawdown, including repeat borrowers was 35.5 million as of March 31, 2025, an increase of 13.8% from 31.2 million as of March 31, 2024.
    • In the first quarter of 2025, financial institutional partners originated 24,401,374 loans*3 through our platform.
    • Total facilitation and origination loan volume*4 reached RMB88,883 million, an increase of 15.8% from RMB76,784 million in the same period of 2024 and a decrease of 1.1% from RMB89,885 million in the prior quarter. RMB43,811 million of such loan volume was under capital-light model, Intelligence Credit Engine (“ICE”) and total technology solutions*5, representing 49.3% of the total, an increase of 15.1% from RMB38,053 million in the same period of 2024 and a decrease of 8.3% from RMB47,796 million in the prior quarter.
    • Total outstanding loan balance*6 was RMB140,273 million as of March 31, 2025, an increase of 5.5% from RMB132,964 million as of March 31, 2024 and an increase of 2.4% from RMB137,014 million as of December 31, 2024. RMB78,681 million of such loan balance was under capital-light model, “ICE” and total technology solutions, an increase of 11.4% from RMB70,641 million as of March 31, 2024 and a decrease of 1.2% from RMB79,599 million as of December 31, 2024.
    • The weighted average contractual tenor of loans originated by financial institutions across our platform in the first quarter of 2025 was approximately 10.17 months, compared with 10.10 months in the same period of 2024.
    • 90 day+ delinquency rate*7 of loans originated by financial institutions across our platform was 2.02% as of March 31, 2025.
    • Repeat borrower contribution*8 of loans originated by financial institutions across our platform for the first quarter of 2025 was 95.1%.

    1 Refers to cumulative registered users across our platform.
    2 “Cumulative users with approved credit lines” refers to the total number of users who had submitted their credit applications and were approved with a credit line at the end of each period.
    3 Including 2,022,501 loans across “V-pocket”, and 22,378,873 loans across other products.
    4 Refers to the total principal amount of loans facilitated and originated during the given period. Retrospectively excluding the impact of discontinued service, which did not have and is not expected to have a material impact on our overall business, financial condition, and results of operations.
    5 “ICE” is an open platform primarily on our “Qifu Jietiao” APP (previously known as “360 Jietiao”), we match borrowers and financial institutions through big data and cloud computing technology on “ICE”, and provide pre-loan investigation report of borrowers. For loans facilitated through “ICE”, the Company does not bear principal risk.
    Under total technology solutions, we have been offering end-to-end technology solutions to financial institutions based on on-premise deployment, SaaS or hybrid model since 2023.
    6 “Total outstanding loan balance” refers to the total amount of principal outstanding for loans facilitated and originated at the end of each period, excluding loans delinquent for more than 180 days. Retrospectively excluding the impact of discontinued service, which did not have and is not expected to have a material impact on our overall business, financial condition, and results of operations.
    7 “90 day+ delinquency rate” refers to the outstanding principal balance of on- and off-balance sheet loans that were 91 to 180 calendar days past due as a percentage of the total outstanding principal balance of on- and off-balance sheet loans across our platform as of a specific date. Loans that are charged-off and loans under “ICE” and total technology solutions are not included in the delinquency rate calculation.
    8 “Repeat borrower contribution” for a given period refers to (i) the principal amount of loans borrowed during that period by borrowers who had historically made at least one successful drawdown, divided by (ii) the total loan facilitation and origination volume through our platform during that period.

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

    • Total net revenue was RMB4,690.7 million (US$646.4 million), compared to RMB4,482.3 million in the prior quarter.
    • Net income was RMB1,796.6 million (US$247.6 million), compared to RMB1,912.7 million in the prior quarter.
    • Non-GAAP*9 net income was RMB1,926.2 million (US$265.4 million), compared to RMB1,972.4 million in the prior quarter.
    • Net income per fully diluted American depositary share (“ADS”) was RMB12.62 (US$1.74), compared to RMB13.24 in the prior quarter.
    • Non-GAAP net income per fully diluted ADS was RMB13.53 (US$1.86), compared to RMB13.66 in the prior quarter.

    9 Non-GAAP income from operations, Non-GAAP net income, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP net income margin and Non-GAAP net income per fully diluted ADS are Non-GAAP financial measures. For more information on these Non-GAAP financial measures, please see the section of “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures Statement” and the table captioned “Unaudited Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results” set forth at the end of this press release.

    Mr. Haisheng Wu, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Qifu Technology, commented, “First quarter came in stronger than typical seasonal trend despite the ongoing macroeconomic challenges. We observed an increase in users’ activities early in the quarter as public sentiment slightly improved in response to the strong stimulus messages delivered by government officials. However, we remain prudent in our business planning as tariff-related economic uncertainties may persist throughout this year. We will continue to focus on improving the quality and sustainability of our business.

    During the quarter, we issued a record amount of ABS as the overall funding environment remained supportive. As a result, the blended funding cost continued to decline sequentially. Approximately 56% of the quarter-end loan balance was under the capital-light model, ICE and total technology solutions, demonstrating the efficiency of our platform services. The contribution from non-credit risk bearing services also continued to help us mitigate certain risks in a challenging environment. During the quarter, nearly half of our new credit line users were acquired through embedded finance partners, which we also refer to as API channels, as we further diversify our user acquisition channels. Loan volumes through the API channels increased significantly in the quarter.

    With the growing maturity and efficiency of large language models, we will continue to allocate more resources to the application of AI across our credit service offerings. We expect that these AI-powered tools will not only allow us to serve our users with better offerings at greater efficiency but also enable our financial institution clients to better utilize the cutting-edge AI technologies, through our open platform. We believe these efforts will enable us to better navigate through the current environment and position us well to capture long-term opportunities through innovative technologies, enhanced products and collaborative models.”

    “We are pleased to start 2025 with another quarter of solid financial results despite an uncertain macro environment. For the first quarter, total revenue was RMB4.69 billion and Non-GAAP net income was RMB1.93 billion,” Mr. Alex Xu, Chief Financial Officer, commented. “During the quarter, we successfully completed the US$690 million convertible notes offering and it gave us ample resources to accelerate our share repurchase programs. Our strong financial position enables us to consistently execute our strategy, support business initiatives, and enhance returns to our shareholders.”

    Mr. Yan Zheng, Chief Risk Officer, added, “In the first quarter, we maintained a relatively stable risk profile as users’ activities came in stronger than normal. Although overall risk performance fluctuated from the best level we achieved in the prior quarter, it remained well within our target range. Among key leading indicators, Day-1 delinquency rate*10 was 5.0% in the first quarter, and 30-day collection rate*11 was 88.1%. While macro volatility may induce short-term fluctuation in risk metrics, we look forward to maintaining relatively stable risk performance in the coming quarters as we seek growth opportunities in 2025.”

    10 “Day-1 delinquency rate” is defined as (i) the total amount of principal that became overdue as of a specified date, divided by (ii) the total amount of principal that was due for repayment as of such specified date.
    11 “30-day collection rate” is defined as (i) the amount of principal that was repaid in one month among the total amount of principal that became overdue as of a specified date, divided by (ii) the total amount of principal that became overdue as of such specified date.

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Total net revenue was RMB4,690.7 million (US$646.4 million), compared to RMB4,153.2 million in the same period of 2024, and RMB4,482.3 million in the prior quarter.

    Net revenue from Credit Driven Services was RMB3,110.9 million (US$428.7 million), compared to RMB3,016.3 million in the same period of 2024, and RMB2,889.5 million in the prior quarter.

    Loan facilitation and servicing fees-capital heavy were RMB429.8 million (US$59.2 million), compared to RMB243.8 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB363.0 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year increase was primarily due to an increase in capital-heavy loan facilitation volume and longer effective loan tenor. The sequential increase was primarily due to the increase in effective loan tenor.

    Financing income*12 was RMB1,817.2 million (US$250.4 million), compared to RMB1,535.0 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,667.3 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential increases were primarily due to the growth in the average outstanding balance of the on-balance-sheet loans.

    Revenue from releasing of guarantee liabilities was RMB778.2 million (US$107.2 million), compared to RMB1,166.0 million in the same period of 2024, and RMB761.8 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year decrease was mainly due to the decrease in the average outstanding balance of off-balance-sheet capital-heavy loans during the period.

    Other services fees were RMB85.6 million (US$11.8 million), compared to RMB71.5 million in the same period of 2024, and RMB97.4 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential changes reflected the changes in late payment fees under the credit driven services due to changes in collection rates of late paid loans.

    Net revenue from Platform Services was RMB1,579.8 million (US$217.7 million), compared to RMB1,136.9 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,592.8 million in the prior quarter.

    Loan facilitation and servicing fees-capital light were RMB373.7 million (US$51.5 million), compared to RMB502.7 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB515.1 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential decreases were primarily due to the decreases in capital-light loan facilitation volume.

    Referral services fees were RMB1,004.6 million (US$138.4 million), compared to RMB548.8 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB907.2 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential increases were mainly due to the increases in loan facilitation volume through ICE.

    Other services fees were RMB201.5 million (US$27.8 million), compared to RMB85.4 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB170.5 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential changes reflected trends in other value-added services and late payment fees.

    Total operating costs and expenses were RMB2,716.0 million (US$374.3 million), compared to RMB2,789.1 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB2,591.9 million in the prior quarter.

    Facilitation, origination and servicing expenses were RMB714.5 million (US$98.5 million), compared to RMB736.0 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB734.7 million in the prior quarter.

    Funding costs were RMB122.7 million (US$16.9 million), compared to RMB156.0 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB126.8 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential decreases were mainly due to lower average costs of ABS and trusts, partially offsetting by increases in fundings from ABS and trusts.

    Sales and marketing expenses were RMB591.5 million (US$81.5 million), compared to RMB415.6 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB523.9 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential increases were primarily due to the increase in the allocation of marketing resources to embedded finance channels and content feed advertisements to generate more effective leads.

    General and administrative expenses were RMB196.5 million (US$27.1 million), compared to RMB106.4 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB156.1 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential increases were primarily due to an increase in share-based compensations.

    Provision for loans receivable was RMB823.2 million (US$113.4 million), compared to RMB847.9 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB598.4 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year decrease reflected the Company’s consistent approach in assessing provisions commensurate with its underlying loan profile. The sequential increase was primarily due to an increase in loan origination volume of on-balance-sheet loans and the Company’s consistent approach in assessing provisions commensurate with its underlying loan profile.

    Provision for financial assets receivable was RMB39.9 million (US$5.5 million), compared to RMB99.0 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB63.3 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year decrease reflected the Company’s consistent approach in assessing provisions commensurate with its underlying loan profile. The sequential decrease was mainly due to the decline in capital-heavy loan facilitation volume.

    Provision for accounts receivable and contract assets was RMB68.4 million (US$9.4 million), compared to RMB111.5 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB77.5 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential decreases reflected the Company’s consistent approach in assessing provisions commensurate with its underlying loan profile and changes in capital-heavy and capital-light loan facilitation volume.

    Provision for contingent liability was RMB159.3 million (US$22.0 million), compared to RMB316.7 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB311.4 million in the prior quarter. The year-over-year and sequential decreases reflected the Company’s consistent approach in assessing provisions commensurate with its underlying loan profile. The sequential decrease also reflected the decline in capital-heavy loan facilitation volume.

    Income from operations was RMB1,974.7 million (US$272.1 million), compared to RMB1,364.1 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,890.3 million in the prior quarter.

    Non-GAAP income from operations was RMB2,104.3 million (US$290.0 million), compared to RMB1,408.7 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,950.0 million in the prior quarter.

    Operating margin was 42.1%. Non-GAAP operating margin was 44.9%.

    Income before income tax expense was RMB2,220.2 million (US$306.0 million), compared to RMB1,526.2 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,932.7 million in the prior quarter.

    Income taxes expense was RMB423.6 million (US$58.4 million), compared to RMB366.1 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB20.0 million in the prior quarter. The sequential increase was mainly due to the writeback of withholding taxes in the prior quarter related to the Company’s dividend payment and share repurchases, as the Company became eligible to a lower tax rate.

    Net income was RMB1,796.6 million (US$247.6 million), compared to RMB1,160.1 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,912.7 million in the prior quarter.

    Non-GAAP net income was RMB1,926.2 million (US$265.4 million), compared to RMB1,204.8 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,972.4 million in the prior quarter.

    Net income margin was 38.3%. Non-GAAP net income margin was 41.1%.

    Net income attributed to the Company was RMB1,800.2 million (US$248.1 million), compared to RMB1,164.3 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,916.6 million in the prior quarter.

    Non-GAAP net income attributed to the Company was RMB1,929.8 million (US$265.9 million), compared to RMB1,208.9 million in the same period of 2024 and RMB1,976.4 million in the prior quarter.

    Net income per fully diluted ADS was RMB12.62 (US$1.74).

    Non-GAAP net income per fully diluted ADS was RMB13.53 (US$1.86).

    Weighted average basic ADS used in calculating GAAP net income per ADS was 140.48 million.

    Weighted average diluted ADS used in calculating GAAP and non-GAAP net income per ADS was 142.62 million.

    Ordinary shares outstanding as of March 31, 2025 was 268,930,496.

    12 “Financing income” is generated from loans facilitated through the Company’s platform funded by the consolidated trusts and Fuzhou Microcredit, which charge fees and interests from borrowers.

    30 Day+ Delinquency Rate by Vintage and 180 Day+ Delinquency Rate by Vintage

    The following charts and tables display the historical cumulative 30 day+ delinquency rates by loan facilitation and origination vintage and 180 day+ delinquency rates by loan facilitation and origination vintage for all loans facilitated and originated through the Company’s platform. Loans under “ICE” and total technology solutions are not included in the 30 day+ charts and the 180 day+ charts:

    http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/528f864e-af49-4be7-b48b-b2650fa2808a

    http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/12433d9d-4214-431e-b551-59f682e1ed93

    Update on Share Repurchase

    On November 19, 2024, the Board approved a share repurchase plan (the “2025 Share Repurchase Plan”) whereby the Company is authorized to repurchase up to US$450 million worth of its ADSs or Class A ordinary shares over the next 12 months starting from January 1, 2025.

    As of May 19, 2025, the Company had in aggregate purchased approximately 4.4 million ADSs on the open market for a total amount of approximately US$178 million (inclusive of commissions) at an average price of US$40.2 per ADS pursuant to the 2025 Share Repurchase Plan.

    On March 25, 2025, the Board approved a new share repurchase plan (the “March 2025 Share Repurchase Plan”) whereby the Company is authorized to use to the net proceeds from the offering of convertible senior notes due 2030 to repurchase its ADSs and/or Class A ordinary shares, which runs in addition to the Company’s 2025 Share Repurchase Plan. On March 27, 2025, the Company announced the completion of the offering of the convertible senior notes in an aggregate principal amount of US$690 million due 2030. Concurrently with the pricing of this offering, the Company repurchased approximately 5.1 million ADSs with an aggregate value of approximately US$227 million at a price of US$44.23 per ADS. The Company expects to use the remaining net proceeds, which is approximately US$450 million, from the offering of the convertible senior notes to repurchase additional ADSs and/or Class A ordinary shares on the open market and/or through other means from time to time under the March 2025 Share Repurchase Plan.

    Business Outlook

    As macro-economic uncertainties persist, the Company intends to maintain a prudent approach in its business planning for 2025. Management will continue to focus on enhancing efficiency of the Company’s operations. As such, for the second quarter of 2025, the Company expects to generate a net income between RMB1.65 billion and RMB1.75 billion and a non-GAAP net income*13 between RMB1.75 billion and RMB1.85 billion, representing a year-on-year growth between 24% and 31%. This outlook reflects the Company’s current and preliminary views, which is subject to material changes.

    13 Non-GAAP net income represents net income excluding share-based compensation expenses.

    Conference Call Preregistration

    Qifu Technology’s management team will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time on Monday, May 19, 2025 (8:30 AM Beijing Time on Tuesday, May 20, 2025).

    All participants wishing to join the conference call must pre-register online using the link provided below.

    Registration Link: https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10047043-kj87y6.html

    Upon registration, each participant will receive details for the conference call, including dial-in numbers and a unique access PIN. Please dial in 10 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin.

    Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at https://ir.qifu.tech.

    About Qifu Technology

    Qifu Technology is a leading AI-empowered Credit-Tech platform in China. By leveraging its sophisticated machine learning models and data analytics capabilities, the Company provides a comprehensive suite of technology services to assist financial institutions and consumers and SMEs in the loan lifecycle, ranging from borrower acquisition, preliminary credit assessment, fund matching and post-facilitation services. The Company is dedicated to making credit services more accessible and personalized to consumers and SMEs through Credit-Tech services to financial institutions.

    For more information, please visit: https://ir.qifu.tech.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures Statement

    To supplement our financial results presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, we use Non-GAAP financial measure, which is adjusted from results based on U.S. GAAP to exclude share-based compensation expenses. Reconciliations of our Non-GAAP financial measures to our U.S. GAAP financial measures are set forth in tables at the end of this earnings release, which provide more details on the Non-GAAP financial measures.

    We use Non-GAAP income from operation, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP net income, Non-GAAP net income margin, Non-GAAP net income attributed to the Company and Non-GAAP net income per fully diluted ADS in evaluating our operating results and for financial and operational decision-making purposes. Non-GAAP income from operation represents income from operation excluding share-based compensation expenses. Non-GAAP operating margin is equal to Non-GAAP income from operation divided by total net revenue. Non-GAAP net income represents net income excluding share-based compensation expenses. Non-GAAP net income margin is equal to Non-GAAP net income divided by total net revenue. Non-GAAP net income attributed to the Company represents net income attributed to the Company excluding share-based compensation expenses. Non-GAAP net income per fully diluted ADS represents net income excluding share-based compensation expenses per fully diluted ADS. Such adjustments have no impact on income tax. We believe that Non-GAAP income from operation, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP net income, Non-GAAP net income margin, Non-GAAP net income attributed to the Company and Non-GAAP net income per fully diluted ADS help identify underlying trends in our business that could otherwise be distorted by the effect of certain expenses that we include in results based on U.S. GAAP. We believe that Non-GAAP income from operation and Non-GAAP net income provide useful information about our operating results, enhance the overall understanding of our past performance and future prospects and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by our management in its financial and operational decision-making. Our Non-GAAP financial information should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, but should not be considered a substitute for or superior to U.S. GAAP results. In addition, our calculation of Non-GAAP financial information may be different from the calculation used by other companies, and therefore comparability may be limited.

    Exchange Rate Information

    This announcement contains translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB 7.2567 to US$1.00, the exchange rate set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System as of March 31, 2025.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as the Company’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Qifu Technology may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), in announcements made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including the Company’s business outlook, beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, which factors include but not limited to the following: the Company’s growth strategies, changes in laws, rules and regulatory environments, the recognition of the Company’s brand, market acceptance of the Company’s products and services, trends and developments in the credit-tech industry, governmental policies relating to the credit-tech industry, general economic conditions in China and around the globe, and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is included in Qifu Technology’s filings with the SEC and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Qifu Technology does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:

    Qifu Technology
    E-mail: ir@360shuke.com

    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Amounts in thousands of Renminbi (“RMB”) and U.S. dollars (“USD”)
    except for number of shares and per share data, or otherwise noted)
           
      December 31, March 31, March 31,
      2024 2025 2025
      RMB RMB USD
    ASSETS      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents 4,452,416 8,578,822 1,182,193
    Restricted cash 2,353,384 3,236,427 445,992
    Short term investments 3,394,073 2,040,269 281,157
    Security deposit prepaid to third-party guarantee companies 162,617 173,437 23,900
    Funds receivable from third party payment service providers 462,112 347,416 47,875
    Accounts receivable and contract assets, net 2,214,530 2,316,593 319,235
    Financial assets receivable, net 1,553,912 1,530,084 210,851
    Amounts due from related parties 8,510 3,242 447
    Loans receivable, net 26,714,428 30,675,633 4,227,215
    Prepaid expenses and other assets 1,464,586 1,510,818 208,196
    Total current assets 42,780,568 50,412,741 6,947,061
    Non-current assets:      
    Accounts receivable and contract assets, net-noncurrent 27,132 20,004 2,757
    Financial assets receivable, net-noncurrent 170,779 189,379 26,097
    Amounts due from related parties 51 39 5
    Loans receivable, net-noncurrent 2,537,749 2,314,826 318,992
    Property and equipment, net 362,774 405,926 55,938
    Land use rights, net 956,738 951,557 131,128
    Intangible assets 11,818 11,420 1,574
    Goodwill 42,414 42,407 5,844
    Deferred tax assets 1,206,325 1,244,757 171,532
    Other non-current assets 36,270 34,112 4,701
    Total non-current assets 5,352,050 5,214,427 718,568
    TOTAL ASSETS 48,132,618 55,627,168 7,665,629
           
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY      
    Current liabilities:      
    Payable to investors of the consolidated trusts-current 8,188,454 6,541,069 901,383
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 2,492,921 3,337,707 459,948
    Amounts due to related parties 67,495 48,442 6,675
    Short term loans 1,369,939 1,219,431 168,042
    Guarantee liabilities-stand ready 2,383,202 2,377,408 327,616
    Guarantee liabilities-contingent 1,820,350 1,794,747 247,323
    Income tax payable 1,040,687 1,054,537 145,319
    Other tax payable 109,161 3,897 537
    Total current liabilities 17,472,209 16,377,238 2,256,843
    Non-current liabilities:      
    Deferred tax liabilities 439,435 569,734 78,511
    Payable to investors of the consolidated trusts-noncurrent 5,719,600 10,354,000 1,426,819
    Convertible senior notes – 4,912,524 676,964
    Other long-term liabilities 255,155 297,730 41,028
    Total non-current liabilities 6,414,190 16,133,988 2,223,322
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 23,886,399 32,511,226 4,480,165
    TOTAL QIFU TECHNOLOGY INC EQUITY 24,190,043 23,063,344 3,178,216
    Noncontrolling interests 56,176 52,598 7,248
    TOTAL EQUITY 24,246,219 23,115,942 3,185,464
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 48,132,618 55,627,168 7,665,629
           
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (Amounts in thousands of Renminbi (“RMB”) and U.S. dollars (“USD”)
    except for number of shares and per share data, or otherwise noted)
           
      Three months ended March 31,
      2024  2025  2025
      RMB RMB USD
    Credit driven services 3,016,282 3,110,866 428,690
    Loan facilitation and servicing fees-capital heavy 243,766 429,775 59,225
    Financing income 1,534,986 1,817,221 250,420
    Revenue from releasing of guarantee liabilities 1,166,018 778,222 107,242
    Other services fees 71,512 85,648 11,803
    Platform services 1,136,901 1,579,831 217,706
    Loan facilitation and servicing fees-capital light 502,715 373,709 51,498
    Referral services fees 548,824 1,004,622 138,441
    Other services fees 85,362 201,500 27,767
    Total net revenue 4,153,183 4,690,697 646,396
    Facilitation, origination and servicing 736,026 714,492 98,460
    Funding costs 155,963 122,657 16,903
    Sales and marketing 415,617 591,495 81,510
    General and administrative 106,415 196,482 27,076
    Provision for loans receivable 847,921 823,187 113,438
    Provision for financial assets receivable 99,003 39,863 5,493
    Provision for accounts receivable and contract assets 111,473 68,445 9,432
    Provision for contingent liabilities 316,664 159,343 21,958
    Total operating costs and expenses 2,789,082 2,715,964 374,270
    Income from operations 1,364,101 1,974,733 272,126
    Interest income, net 50,058 67,774 9,340
    Foreign exchange gain 82 2,123 293
    Other income, net 111,968 175,600 24,198
    Income before income tax expense 1,526,209 2,220,230 305,957
    Income taxes expense (366,065) (423,631) (58,378)
    Net income 1,160,144 1,796,599 247,579
    Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 4,143 3,576 493
    Net income attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company 1,164,287 1,800,175 248,072
    Net income per ordinary share attributable to ordinary shareholders of Qifu Technology, Inc.
    Basic 3.73 6.41 0.88
    Diluted 3.65 6.31 0.87
           
    Net income per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders of Qifu Technology, Inc.  
    Basic 7.46 12.82 1.76
    Diluted 7.30 12.62 1.74
           
    Weighted average shares used in calculating net income per ordinary share  
    Basic 312,027,192 280,958,513 280,958,513
    Diluted 318,915,157 285,237,588 285,237,588
           
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Amounts in thousands of Renminbi (“RMB”) and U.S. dollars (“USD”)
    except for number of shares and per share data, or otherwise noted)
         
      Three months ended March 31,
      2024  2025  2025 
      RMB RMB USD
    Net cash provided by operating activities 1,958,267 2,805,685 386,634
    Net cash used in investing activities (3,138,175) (3,240,186) (446,510)
    Net cash provided by financing activities 1,775,409 5,449,071 750,902
    Effect of foreign exchange rate changes 2,095 (5,121) (705)
    Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 597,596 5,009,449 690,321
    Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period 7,558,997 6,805,800 937,864
    Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period 8,156,593 11,815,249 1,628,185
           
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income/(Loss)
    (Amounts in thousands of Renminbi (“RMB”) and U.S. dollars (“USD”)
    except for number of shares and per share data, or otherwise noted)
       
      Three months ended March 31,
      2024 2025 2025
      RMB RMB USD
    Net income 1,160,144 1,796,599 247,579
    Other comprehensive income, net of tax of nil:      
    Foreign currency translation adjustment 2,010 (15,362) (2,117)
    Other comprehensive income (loss) 2,010 (15,362) (2,117)
    Total comprehensive income 1,162,154 1,781,237 245,462
    Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 4,143 3,576 493
    Comprehensive income attributable to ordinary shareholders 1,166,297 1,784,813 245,955
           
    Unaudited Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results
    (Amounts in thousands of Renminbi (“RMB”) and U.S. dollars (“USD”)
    except for number of shares and per share data, or otherwise noted)
           
      Three months ended March 31,
      2024 2025 2025
      RMB RMB USD
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Net Income to Net Income      
    Net income 1,160,144 1,796,599 247,579
    Add: Share-based compensation expenses 44,645 129,614 17,861
    Non-GAAP net income 1,204,789 1,926,213 265,440
    GAAP net income margin 27.9% 38.3%  
    Non-GAAP net income margin 29.0% 41.1%  
           
    Net income attributable to shareholders of Qifu Technology, Inc. 1,164,287 1,800,175 248,072
    Add: Share-based compensation expenses 44,645 129,614 17,861
    Non-GAAP net income attributable to shareholders of Qifu Technology, Inc. 1,208,932 1,929,789 265,933
    Weighted average ADS used in calculating net income per ordinary share for both GAAP and non-GAAP EPS – diluted 159,457,579 142,618,794 142,618,794
    Net income per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders of Qifu Technology, Inc. – diluted 7.30 12.62 1.74
    Non-GAAP net income per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders of Qifu Technology, Inc. – diluted 7.58 13.53 1.86
           
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Income from operations to Income from operations      
    Income from operations 1,364,101 1,974,733 272,126
    Add: Share-based compensation expenses 44,645 129,614 17,861
    Non-GAAP Income from operations 1,408,746 2,104,347 289,987
    GAAP operating margin 32.8% 42.1%  
    Non-GAAP operating margin 33.9% 44.9%  
           

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Washington, D.C. arrests illegal Guatemalan gang member with extensive criminal history

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    FAIRFAX, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested an illegally present Guatemalan gang member with an extensive history of criminal activity that includes a multitude of charges and convictions for assault and battery, burglary, credit card fraud, trespassing and drug crimes. Officers with ICE Washington, D.C. arrested Mykol Santos-Santos, 25, in Fairfax May 12, after the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center refused to honor ICE’s 16th immigration detainer lodged against him.

    Santos-Santos resisted the arrest heavily, resulting in the injury of an ICE officer.

    “Mykol Santos-Santos is a habitual offender. He is a documented member of a violent criminal gang with a lengthy criminal history and represents an egregious danger to our Virginia communities,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russell Hott. “While we are happy to have arrested him, we find it inexcusable that local law enforcement refused to honor 16 separate immigration detainers against Santos-Santos, forcing ICE officers to make an at large arrest where one of our officers was injured. We could have worked together with local law enforcement to arrange a safe transfer of custody. Instead, they decided to place politics ahead of public safety, and as a result one of our brave officers was injured. ICE Washington D.C. will continue to prioritize the safety of our public by arresting and removing criminal alien threats to our communities.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Santos-Santos July 11, 2014, after he illegally entered the United States near Hidalgo, Texas. Border Patrol officials issued him a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.

    ICE Washington, D.C. arrested Santos-Santos July 17, 2018, during a targeted enforcement operation in Annandale, Virginia.

    On Jan. 2, 2019, a Justice Department immigration judge granted him an $8,000 immigration bond.

    On June 30, 2023, a Justice Department immigration judge ordered Santos-Santos removed from the United States to Guatemala.

    Between Feb. 20, 2020, and May 8, 2025, Fairfax County Police arrested Santos-Santos at least 30 times and charged him with crimes including assault and battery, drug possession, drug possession with intent to distribute, burglary, theft, larceny, trespassing, property damage, obstruction of justice, attempting to flee police, failure to appear and violating court orders.

    Between June 17, 2022, and May 12, 2025, ICE Washington, D.C. lodged 16 separate immigration detainers against him with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. The facility ignored all 16 detainers and released Santos-Santos back into the community on each occasion.  

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @EROWashington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Contractor of USAID-Funded Program Extradited to the United States, Convicted and Sentenced for Conspiracy to Obtain Grant Money Through Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON— Stephen Paul Edmund Sutton, 53, a United Kingdom citizen, pleaded guilty and was sentenced today for his participation in a fraud scheme, perpetrated when he was employed by a  contracting firm that implemented a U.S. Agency for International Development-funded (USAID) power distribution program (PDP) in Pakistan, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Sean Bottary.

                Sutton pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit theft concerning a program receiving federal funds, which is a felony. In his role as a Logistics Operations Manager, Sutton took kickbacks of USAID-funds used to pay for the services rendered. After fighting extradition for more than two years, Sutton was extradited to the United States. District Court Judge Amit P. Mehta sentenced Sutton to time-served and ordered that Sutton be turned over to immigration authorities.

                He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit theft concerning a program receiving federal funds. He was sentenced to time-served and one day of supervised release.

                According to court documents, PDP was a component of U.S. government assistance to the government of Pakistan to support its energy sector. Launched in September 2010, the five-year program was designed to facilitate improvements in Pakistan’s government-owned electric power distribution companies through interventions and projects addressing governance issues, technical and non-technical losses, and low revenue collection. The main goal of the PDP was to improve the commercial performance of the participating distribution companies through technology upgrades and improvements in processes, procedures, and practices, as well as training and capacity building. Under the PDP contract, Sutton’s employer subcontracted through purchase orders with vendors in Pakistan for certain goods and services.

                From May through November 2015, Sutton and his co-conspirator, an employee supervised by Sutton, participated in a kickback scheme by creating two companies, obtaining PDP purchase orders for forklift and crane services for the companies, and distributing the profits to themselves. As part of the scheme, his co-conspirator arranged for low-grade local vendors to provide the services for at least half the contract rates, and Sutton ensured that the company paid the invoices despite suspicions raised by an accounts payable officer. U.S. government sentencing documents indicate the agency was defrauded of almost $100,000 and that for his part, Sutton received at least $21,000 in kickbacks.

                Sutton’s co-conspirator is also charged by indictment and his case is pending disposition. 

                This case was investigated by the USAID Office of Inspector General and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Miller and former Special Assistant United States Attorneys Scot Morris and Nicholas Coates of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Sutton from the UK.

    20-cr-252

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Stanford Medicine is orchestrating multiple agents to connect medical data, clinical trials and more – all with the goal of delivering more effective cancer care. Incredible to see in action. Learn more about our new healthcare agent orchestrator.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Stanford Medicine is orchestrating multiple agents to connect medical data, clinical trials and more – all with the goal of delivering more effective cancer care. Incredible to see in action. Learn more about our new healthcare agent orchestrator.

    Stanford Medicine is orchestrating multiple agents to connect medical data, clinical trials, and more – all with the goal of delivering more effective cancer care. Incredible to see in action. Learn more about our new healthcare agent orchestrator: https://lnkd.in/gGJd-uQG

    Like Comment

    Transcript

    Sanford Medicine is the at the forefront of Cancer Research in the context of treatment. Tumor boards are a really important meeting of many different clinicians who convene because a patient presents in a way that they’re not familiar with. You have to pull together information about medications, procedures, radiology, labs, a patients history and the medical literature. That information is fragmented in a bunch of different places. Those are things we do manually and we can’t do them 4000 times per year. Their health care agent Orchestrator is a way of bringing all this together at the beginning so that we can help make patient decisions more efficiently, faster, and perhaps more accurately. This is an agentic AI solution deployable through Azure AI Foundry. We’ve been able to build, customize, and deploy our own agents to provide a comprehensive report that brings together all of these disparate information sources. They’re already using Word to summarize things. They often make PowerPoint slides. This enables us. To put everything in an integrated setting into one summary, it took just a few lines of code to deploy these agents into teams so that we could start interacting with them directly. It’s being delivered as a platform on which we can build. We can package things to share with others. We wanted to develop tools that would help physicians all over the world. I think it’s going to be transformative.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Stanford Medicine is orchestrating multiple agents to connect medical data, clinical trials and more – all with the goal of delivering more effective cancer care. Incredible to see in action. Learn more about our new healthcare agent orchestrator.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Stanford Medicine is orchestrating multiple agents to connect medical data, clinical trials and more – all with the goal of delivering more effective cancer care. Incredible to see in action. Learn more about our new healthcare agent orchestrator.

    Stanford Medicine is orchestrating multiple agents to connect medical data, clinical trials, and more – all with the goal of delivering more effective cancer care. Incredible to see in action. Learn more about our new healthcare agent orchestrator: https://lnkd.in/gGJd-uQG

    Like Comment

    Transcript

    Sanford Medicine is the at the forefront of Cancer Research in the context of treatment. Tumor boards are a really important meeting of many different clinicians who convene because a patient presents in a way that they’re not familiar with. You have to pull together information about medications, procedures, radiology, labs, a patients history and the medical literature. That information is fragmented in a bunch of different places. Those are things we do manually and we can’t do them 4000 times per year. Their health care agent Orchestrator is a way of bringing all this together at the beginning so that we can help make patient decisions more efficiently, faster, and perhaps more accurately. This is an agentic AI solution deployable through Azure AI Foundry. We’ve been able to build, customize, and deploy our own agents to provide a comprehensive report that brings together all of these disparate information sources. They’re already using Word to summarize things. They often make PowerPoint slides. This enables us. To put everything in an integrated setting into one summary, it took just a few lines of code to deploy these agents into teams so that we could start interacting with them directly. It’s being delivered as a platform on which we can build. We can package things to share with others. We wanted to develop tools that would help physicians all over the world. I think it’s going to be transformative.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 296

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 296
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    345 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southern Iowa
    Northern Missouri

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 345 PM until
    1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Strong to severe thunderstorms over northern Missouri will
    spread northward across the watch this afternoon and evening. The
    strongest storms will pose a risk of large hail.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles north and south of a line from 65 miles west northwest
    of Lamoni IA to 25 miles south of Ottumwa IA. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 292…WW 293…WW
    294…WW 295…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    22030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW6
    WW 296 SEVERE TSTM IA MO 192045Z – 200300Z
    AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    65WNW LWD/LAMONI IA/ – 25S OTM/OTTUMWA IA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM N/S /32ESE OVR – 36N IRK/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 22030.

    LAT…LON 41699508 41469245 40009245 40249508

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

    Watch 296 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (10%)

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

    Low (5%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Aether Holdings to Present at the Aegis Capital Corp. 2025 Virtual Conference on May 22nd

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aether Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATHR) (“Aether” or the “Company”), an emerging financial technology platform company that offers proprietary research analytics, today announced that its management team is scheduled to present at the Aegis Capital Corp. 2025 Virtual Conference on Thursday, May 22nd, 2025.

    Presentation Details:
    Date: May 22nd, 2025
    Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
    Webcast Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/AfmnLxICTqmjEvoSG9-MMQ

    Frank Cid, VP of Business Development at Aether Holdings, will present the Company’s strategic vision, highlighting the recent launch of Alpha Edge Media, its digital-first content arm focused on expanding subscriber engagement through targeted newsletters and proprietary market insights.

    “We are excited to showcase Aether at the Aegis Virtual Conference following our recent initial public offering,” said Nicolas Lin, CEO of Aether Holdings. “This is a key moment to share how we’re scaling subscriber engagement through Alpha Edge Media, our content engine designed to grow a data-rich investor audience. By connecting media, behavior, and analytics, we’re creating a self-learning system that delivers smarter, faster insights and positions us to lead the next wave of fintech innovation.”

    About Aether Holdings, Inc.

    Aether Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATHR) is an emerging financial technology holding company focused on transforming the way investors navigate the markets. Leveraging decades of market expertise and cutting-edge technology, Aether delivers proprietary tools, data, and research to empower traders with actionable insights and enhanced decision-making capabilities.

    Aether’s flagship platform, SentimenTrader.com, is designed to serve both retail and institutional investors by offering advanced sentiment analysis through the use of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. With over 20 years of sentiment data integrated into its systems, Aether aims to provide its users with a powerful combination of technology and expertise, enabling them to make informed decisions to level up their trading in the markets.

    Aether is committed to building an ecosystem that supports smarter, data-driven trading strategies, reinforcing its mission to empower the investing community and redefine excellence in fintech. By integrating advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence tools with the critical thinking and analytical abilities of its team of evidence-based trading veterans, Aether aims to provide its users with a powerful combination of technology and expertise, enabling them to make informed decisions to level up their trading in the markets.

    Find out more about Aether Holdings at https://helloaether.com/

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of Aether’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements relate to the anticipated benefits to Aether of the launch and business plan for Alpha Edge Media as described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For Aether, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to Aether’s ability to adequately market its products and services, and to develop or acquire additional products and product offerings; (ii) risks related to intense competition in the fintech and financial newsletter sector; (iii) risk related to artificial intelligence and machine learning; (iv) the inability of Aether to maintain and protect its reputation for trustworthiness and independence; (v) the inability of Aether to attract new users and subscribers and convert free users to paying subscribers; (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with operating a relatively small business a rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and Aether therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://investor.helloaether.com/#sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Aether Holdings, Inc. Contact
    Nicolas Lin, CEO
    (347) 363-0886
    ir@helloaether.com

    Investor Relations Contact
    Matthew Abenante, IRC
    President, Strategic Investor Relations, LLC
    (347)-947-2093
    Email: matthew@strategic-ir.com

    Media Contact
    Jessica Starman, MBA
    media@helloaether.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: The federal government wants to boost productivity. Science can help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Deanna D’Alessandro, Professor & Director, Net Zero Institute, University of Sydney

    Daniel Sone/National Cancer Institute

    In the wake of Labor’s resounding victory in Australia’s federal election earlier this month, there has been much talk about flailing productivity in Australia.

    In fact, last week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers made clear that the priority for the government’s second term will be to boost productivity. This crucial measure of how much we produce for every hour we work rises a little every year. But growth has slowed over the past decade.

    As part of this, the federal government has tasked the Productivity Commission with a new strategy to enhance productivity. A draft report is expected in July or August, with implementable ideas across five key pillars.

    So far, however, one part of the solution to the productivity slump has received little public attention: boosting support for scientific research.

    Productivity relies on science

    Science can help boost national economic productivity in many ways.

    For one, scientific innovation and creativity can create high value goods and services for both Australian and international markets. And translating this research into real-world economic benefits builds a workforce that combines science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills with business skills.

    This is important because it fosters technological innovation and supports evidence-based decision making. It also empowers individuals to solve complex problems in the face of technological change. This ultimately drives productivity growth.

    Australian scientific solutions will also need to be at the fore if the Future Made in Australia agenda is to realise its goal of stronger public-private sector relationships and a more resilient economy.

    The so-called fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0, refers to the rapid digitisation and automation of manufacturing industry technologies and processes. It not only relies on science to realise the enormous opportunities of digital technologies, but also to ensure they are harnessed sustainably.

    For example, science can help address the serious concerns relating to the huge energy and resource cost of artificial intelligence.

    Recognising the role of science

    The government seems to recognise the role scientific research and innovation can play in boosting productivity.

    For example, in 2024 it fully launched the Australian Economic Accelerator, which was announced by the former Coalition government two years earlier. This scheme is designed to foster and build productivity by supporting university research in Australia that has the potential for commercialisation.

    Australia’s new national science and research priorities also highlight the crucial role of science in addressing Australia’s complex energy and environmental challenges.

    But there are still some fundamental problems in the world of science that are limiting productivity growth in Australia.

    A widening gap

    One of these problems relates to research and development – or R&D – funding.

    Australia’s investment in R&D as a percentage of gross domestic product has been declining for many years. It has dropped from 2.25% in 2008–9 to 1.68% in 2021–22. At the same time, other advanced economies have increased their R&D spending, leading to a widening gap. The OECD average is 2.7%.

    Multiple leading bodies have called out this decline as a threat to Australia’s long-term productivity. That’s because R&D spending in science fosters innovation and creativity – two major factors in productivity growth.

    Another problem is the declining support for fundamental science which isn’t done with any application in mind, but can be equally important in the long term to enhancing productivity.

    Consider the discovery of penicillin. Or of the double helix structure of DNA. These are just some scientific breakthroughs that were not initially focused on practical applications, but ultimately proved transformative.

    This kind of scientific research requires sustained support, allowing knowledge to grow. We have seen the results of this in action and its impact even more recently. Scientists had worked on mRNA vaccines for decades before the vaccine breakthrough achieved during the COVID pandemic.

    A nation at a crossroads

    Australia is at a crossroads. Simply increasing funding in the short term through measures such as Australia’s Economic Accelerator is, at best, a band-aid solution. What’s needed to properly tackle the problem is thoughtful reform and long-term, strategic planning to secure the nation’s prosperity for decades to come.

    There is some hope for this, thanks to the government’s comprehensive review of the R&D sector. This review aims to align R&D with national priorities, maximise the value of existing investments, harness public-private partnerships, and strengthen collaboration between research and industry.

    The review is engaging a wide range of stakeholders and is designed to deliver long-term transformation.

    Addressing productivity in these areas could yield substantial benefits. It could build Australia’s industrial and economic self-sufficiency. And it could broaden our field of view around productivity and how it can be boosted through long-term investment in science and R&D reforms.

    By implementing robust R&D reforms and driving productivity across all sectors, Australia can set itself up for sustained growth and international influence.

    Deanna D’Alessandro receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Kate Harrison Brennan was an Advisor to former Prime Minister Julia Gillard and is a member of the Australian Labor Party.

    – ref. The federal government wants to boost productivity. Science can help – https://theconversation.com/the-federal-government-wants-to-boost-productivity-science-can-help-256567

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume, Van Hollen, Members of Maryland Congressional Delegation Introduce Bill to Award Henrietta Lacks the Congressional Gold Medal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07) and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) are introducing the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act, in the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate. This legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her immortal “HeLa cells” which have made invaluable contributions to global health, scientific research, our quality of life, and patients’ rights. Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions.

    The bill receives support from Members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation, including Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Representatives Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), and Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-02). These lawmakers makeup 27 Members of the U.S. House who have signed on as original cosponsors. The legislation is also endorsed by HELA100: Henrietta Lacks Initiative and the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group (HLLG).

    “I am honored to introduce this legislation in the U.S. House to provide both the spirit of Mrs. Lacks and her descendants the gratitude and recognition this lineage deserves. Her ‘HeLa cells’ have altered the future of medical science, and the world continues to benefit from Mrs. Lacks’ contributions and sacrifice,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “During a time in our country where the Trump administration shamefully seeks to erase Black history from the American story, the legacies of Black historymakers like Mrs. Lacks must be uplifted, and we must continue to deliver our message back to President Trump: you erase it, we will replace it,” he concluded.

    “Without knowing it at the time of her cancer treatment, Henrietta Lacks would go on to change the course of modern medicine. Her cells unlocked a breakthrough in medical research, leading to treatments and cures that are bettering people’s lives to this day. But Mrs. Lacks never consented to the use of her cells – nor did she receive rightful credit for the monumental contributions she made. That’s why it’s all the more important that we recognize her with the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’ highest expression of appreciation,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen.

    “The Lacks Family is grateful to our friends Congressman Kweisi Mfume and Senator Chris Van Hollen for their leadership and continued commitment toward awarding a Congressional Gold Medal to my grandmother, Henrietta Lacks,” said Alfred Lacks Carter, Jr., grandson of Henrietta Lacks. “This Mother’s Day has even more meaning. I applaud the introduction of this Act in the spirit of my mother, Deborah Lacks, who worked tirelessly to ensure that her mother, Henrietta Lacks, was celebrated as the Mother of Modern Medicine,” he concluded.

    “Awarding Henrietta Lacks a Congressional Gold Medal as the world celebrates her 105th birthday this year is truly a fitting honor. Our Hennie’s contributions to science, medicine, and research have saved lives and created cures – here in the U.S. and worldwide. As my grandfather, Lawrence Lacks, Sr., Henrietta Lacks’ eldest son, often said, ‘We are proud of all the good that she has done for the world.’ As the next generation, we are reclaiming her story to make certain the world recognizes her impact,” said Veronica Robinson, Senior Advisor, HELA100: Henrietta Lacks Initiative, great granddaughter of Henrietta Lacks.

    “On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group (HLLG), it is our pleasure to write this letter of support for your bill that would award posthumously a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her immortal cells that have had a revolutionary effect on modern medicine and other scientific innovations,” wrote Dr. Adele Newson-Horst, Chair, HLLG Board of Directors and Servant Courtney Speed, Founder and President, HLLG.  

    In 1951, it was discovered that Mrs. Henrietta Lacks, of Baltimore, had a large, malignant tumor on her cervix. However, unbeknownst to Mrs. Lacks or her family, medical researchers took samples of her tumor during her treatment without her consent. Henrietta Lacks’ cells, now known as ‘‘HeLa cells,” doubled every 20 to 24 hours whereas other human cells died in the same time period.

    Lacks’ prolific cells continue to replicate to this day and contribute to remarkable advances in medicine resulting in several Nobel Prize award-winning discoveries and groundbreaking advancements. These scientific discoveries include the development of the polio vaccine and drugs used to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS, hemophilia, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Her cells were even sent into space to survey long-term effects on living cells and tissues.

    The bill text for the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act is available by clicking here.

    The Life of Henrietta Lacks

    • Henrietta Lacks was born in Roanoke, Virginia in 1920 and later moved to Baltimore, Maryland with her husband and family of 5 children.
       
    • At the age of 31, she sought treatment from The Johns Hopkins Hospital for prolonged bleeding.
       
    • At the time, the hospital was one of a few that would treat African Americans. Shortly after her admission to the hospital, she was diagnosed with an aggressive cervical cancer that would lead to her untimely death only 8 months later.
       
    • This tragedy left Henrietta Lacks’ husband and 5 children to go on without her.
       
    • Despite Mrs. Lacks’ passing, her life continued under unique circumstances. Researchers took cells from Henrietta Lacks without her consent or the consent of her relatives and discovered that they were unlike any other known cells before.
       
    • Mrs. Lacks’ cells, now referred to as, “HeLa cells,” were remarkably durable and prolific, which allowed them to be used extensively in scientific research.
       
    • The cells had the unparalleled capacity to reproduce and were deemed immortal; meaning, where other human cells would die, “HeLa cells” doubled every 20 to 24 hours.
       
    • Henrietta Lacks’ immortal cells have been used by researchers, resulting in several Nobel Prize award-winning discoveries and groundbreaking advancements.
       
    • These scientific discoveries include the development of the polio vaccine and drugs used to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS, hemophilia, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Her cells were even sent into space to survey long-term effects on living cells and tissues.
       
    • Henrietta Lacks’ story garnered the attention of the nation and was chronicled in a Primetime Emmy Award-nominated HBO film entitled, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.”   
       
    • In October of 2024, Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine broke ground on the Henrietta Lacks Building.
       
      • The new 34,000-square-foot building will be located on the East Baltimore campus and support multiple programs of the Berman Institute, Johns Hopkins University and the School of Medicine, and will house flexible program and classroom space for educational, research, and community use purposes.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: GraniteShares Announces Change in ETF Lineup

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GraniteShares announced today that it will close and liquidate the following ETF:

    Ticker Fund Name Commencement of investment operations
    TSLI GraniteShares 1x Short AMD Daily ETF 08/23/2023

    On May 09, 2025, the board of GraniteShares ETF Trust approved the liquidation of the GraniteShares 1x Short AMD Daily ETF (the “ETF”). The last day of trading for the ETF on NASDAQ Stock Market will be June 20, 2025. The last day creation orders will be accepted for the ETF will be June 18, 2025. Investors may sell their shares of the ETF until market close on June 20, 2025. Shares of the ETF will no longer trade on NASDAQ Stock Market after market close on June 20, 2025, and will be subsequently delisted. The final distribution to shareholders of the ETF is expected to occur on or about June 23, 2025.

    When the ETF commences the liquidation of its portfolio, it may hold cash and securities that may not be consistent with the ETF’s investment objectives and strategies.

    At the time the liquidation of the ETF is complete, the ETF shares will be individually redeemed. For shareholders that still hold shares of the ETF as of June 20, 2025, shares will be automatically redeemed for cash at the net asset value as of close of business on that date, which will reflect the costs of closing the ETF. Shareholders will generally recognize a capital gain or loss on the redemptions. The ETF may or may not pay one or more dividends or other distributions prior to or along with the redemption payments.

    About GraniteShares

    GraniteShares is an independent ETF issuer headquartered in New York City. GraniteShares will continue to offer the following leveraged single stock ETFs:

    ETF NAME TICKER UNDERLYING STOCK MANAGEMENT FEE/TOTAL EXPENSES
           
    GraniteShares 2x Long AAPL Daily ETF AAPB Apple 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long AMD Daily ETF AMDL AMD 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long AMZN Daily ETF AMZZ Amazon.com 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long BABA Daily ETF BABX Alibaba 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long COIN Daily ETF CONL Coinbase 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Short COIN Daily ETF CONI Coinbase 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long CRWD Daily ETF CRWL CrowdStrike 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long DELL Daily ETF DLLL Dell Technologies 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long INTC Daily ETF INTW Intel 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long IONQ Daily ETF IONL IONQ 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long LCID Daily ETF LCDL Lucid 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MARA Daily ETF MRAL MARA Holding 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long META Daily ETF FBL Meta Platform 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MRVL Daily ETF MVLL Marvell Technology 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MSFT Daily ETF MSFL Microsoft 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long MU Daily ETF MULL Micron Technology 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long NVDA Daily ETF NVDL NVIDIA 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Short NVDA Daily ETF NVD NVIDIA 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long PLTR Daily ETF PTIR Palantir 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long QCOM Daily ETF QCML Qualcomm 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long RDDT Daily ETF RDTL Reddit 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long RIVN Daily ETF RVNL Rivian 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long SMCI Daily ETF SMCL Super Micro Computer 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 1.25x Long TSLA Daily ETF TSL Tesla 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long TSLA Daily ETF TSLR Tesla 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Short TSLA Daily ETF TSDD Tesla 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long TSM Daily ETF TSML Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing 1.30%/1.50%
    GraniteShares 2x Long Uber Daily ETF UBRL Uber 0.99%/1.15%
    GraniteShares 2x Long VRT Daily ETF VRTL Vertiv 1.30%/1.50%
           

    In addition, GraniteShares’ ETF suite includes the following ETFs:

    Contact Information:
    William Rhind, CEO
    GraniteShares Inc
    +1 646 876 5049
    william.rhind@graniteshares.com

    Important Information

    Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the GraniteShares funds (the “Funds”) carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Funds, please call (844) 476 8747, or visit the website at www.graniteshares.com. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

    To obtain a prospectus for BAR, please visit
    https://www.graniteshares.com/Documents/25/Prospectus-GraniteShares-Gold-Trust.pdf
    To obtain a prospectus for PLTM, please visit
    https://graniteshares.com/media/gwrbh3ah/pltm_prospectus.pdf
    To obtain a prospectus for COMB, please visit
    https://graniteshares.com/media/4crf2x4e/graniteshares-etf-trust-comb-summary-prospectus.pdf

    Except as described above regarding the liquidation of the ETFs, shares of the Funds may be sold during trading hours on the exchange through any brokerage account, shares are not individually redeemable, and shares may only be redeemed directly from a Fund by Authorized Participants. There can be no assurance that an active trading market for shares in a Fund will develop or be maintained. Shares may trade above or below NAV. Brokerage commissions will apply.

    Fund Risks

    Multiple funds have a limited operating history of less than a year and risks associated with a new fund. The Leveraged and Daily Inverse Funds are not suitable for all investors. The investment program of the funds is speculative, entails substantial risks and include asset classes and investment techniques not employed by most ETFs and mutual funds. Investments in the ETFs are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) or daily inverse (-1X and -2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day. The funds do not directly invest in the underlying stock.

    The Funds seek daily inverse or leveraged investment results and are intended to be used as short-term trading vehicles. Each Fund with “Long” in its name attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the respective long leveraged multiple of the performance of an underlying stock (each a Leveraged Long Fund). Each Fund with “Short” in its name attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the inverse (or opposite) multiple of the performance of an underlying stock (each an Inverse Fund).

    Investors should note that the Long Leveraged Funds and the Daily Inverse Funds pursue daily leveraged investment objectives and daily inverse investment objectives (respectively), which means that the fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage and inverse strategies because the fund magnifies the performance of their underlying security. The volatility of the underlying security may affect a Funds’ return as much as, or more than, the return of the underlying security.

    For the Leveraged Long Funds because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day.

    For the Daily Inverse Funds because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from -100% and 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance decreases over a period longer than a single day.

    Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the ETF. There can be no guarantee that an active trading market for ETF shares will develop or be maintained, or that their listing will continue or remain unchanged. Buying or selling ETF shares on an exchange may require the payment of brokerage commissions and frequent trading may incur brokerage costs that detract significantly from investment returns.

    An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The Fund is non-diversified and includes risks associated with the Fund concentrating its investments in a particular industry, sector, or geographic region which can result in increased volatility. The use of derivatives such as futures contracts and swaps are subject to market risks that may cause their price to fluctuate over time. Risks of the Fund include Effects of Compounding and Market Volatility Risk, Inverse Risk, Market Risk, Counterparty Risk, Rebalancing Risk, Intra-Day Investment Risk, Daily Index Correlation Risk, Other Investment Companies (including ETFs) Risk, and risks specific to the securities of the Underlying Stock and the sector in which it operates. These and other risks can be found in the prospectus.

    Investing in physical commodities, including through commodity-linked derivative instruments such as Commodity Futures, Commodity Swaps, as well as other commodity-linked instruments, is speculative and can be extremely volatile and may not be suitable for all investors. Market prices of commodities may fluctuate rapidly based on numerous factors, including: changes in supply and demand relationships (whether actual, perceived, anticipated, unanticipated or unrealized); weather; agriculture; trade; domestic and foreign political and economic events and policies; diseases; pestilence; technological developments; currency exchange rate fluctuations; and monetary and other governmental policies, action and inaction.

    A liquid secondary market may not exist for the types of commodity-linked derivative instruments the Fund buys, which may make it difficult for the Fund to sell them at an acceptable price. The Fund is new with no operating history. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Fund will grow to or maintain an economically viable size, in which case it could ultimately liquidate.

    Derivatives may be more sensitive to changes in market conditions and may amplify risks and losses.

    This information is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of any Funds to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Please consult your tax advisor about the tax consequences of an investment in Fund shares, including the possible application of foreign, state, and local tax laws. You could lose money by investing in the ETFs. There can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Funds will be achieved. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program.

    The Fund is distributed by ALPS Distributors, Inc, which is not affiliated with GraniteShares or any of its affiliates ©2025 GraniteShares Inc. All rights reserved. GraniteShares, GraniteShares Trusts, and the GraniteShares logo are registered and unregistered trademarks of GraniteShares Inc., in the United States and elsewhere. All other marks are the property of their respective owners

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: BigCommerce to Present at Baird Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BigCommerce Holdings, Inc. (“BigCommerce”) (Nasdaq: BIGC), an open SaaS, composable ecommerce platform for fast-growing and established B2C and B2B brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors, today announced that Chief Financial Officer Daniel Lentz will present and host meetings with institutional investors at the Baird Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 10:50 a.m. Eastern Time (9:50 a.m. Central Time).

    A live webcast of the presentation will be accessible from the BigCommerce investor relations website at https://investors.bigcommerce.com. Following the event, a replay will be made available at the same location.

    About BigCommerce

    BigCommerce (Nasdaq: BIGC) is a leading open SaaS and composable ecommerce platform that empowers brands, retailers, manufacturers and distributors of all sizes to build, innovate and grow their businesses online. BigCommerce provides its customers sophisticated professional-grade functionality, customization and performance with simplicity and ease-of-use. Tens of thousands of B2C and B2B companies across 150 countries and numerous industries rely on BigCommerce, including Coldwater Creek, Harvey Nichols, King Arthur Baking Co., MKM Building Supplies, United Aqua Group and Uplift Desk. For more information, please visit www.bigcommerce.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    BigCommerce® is a registered trademark of BigCommerce Pty. Ltd. Third-party trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 271 272 273 274 275 … 735
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress