NewzIntel.com

Category: Machine Learning

  • MIL-OSI USA: Opening Remarks of Commissioner Kristin N. Johnson at GAIM Ops AI Summit: Using AI To Combat Cybersecurity and Fraud Risks

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Good afternoon. Thank you to the event organizers for the generous invitation to join you to kick off the AI Summit. The Summit will explore critical topics—data quality and security, good governance for AI, critical third-party service providers, and the integration of generative AI in operating infrastructure, trade execution, clearing, and settlement, and trade surveillance, among others.
    I’d like to highlight two risks implicated by the integration of AI in our markets—cybersecurity and fraud risks. 
    Cyber and fraud risks are ever-present in our markets. Sophisticated AI models have the potential to facilitate high-quality, near-flawless, synthetic content, enabling stunning heists. AI models train, test, and refine their functionality by aggregating and analyzing vast amounts of data, creating enticing targets for cyber intrusion campaigns.
    While the threats are well-documented, we have not yet fully explored the potential for AI to address cyberthreats and AI-driven fraud. In the least, carefully studying coordinated efforts to develop cyber resilience may teach us some important lessons regarding how to use AI to mitigate cyber and fraud threats in our markets. 
    We are witnessing an increasing number of cyber and fraud threats executed using AI technologies. In some instances, the technology that drives these cyber and fraud threats may be an important offensive and defensive tool. 
    Your agenda rightly aims to identify pathways to good AI governance and best practices for individual firms and the broader financial ecosystem.[1]  
    AI and Financial Markets 
    Over the last few years, markets have witnessed the increasing potential for AI to engender efficiencies, reduce costs, harness and analyze vast amounts of data, and enable personalized access to markets. Many firms quickly discovered the potential for AI to streamline trade reporting, anti-money laundering (AML), and other regulatory compliance obligations. Financial services firms have used AI tools for many years, but “maturity in utilization and deployment of AI systems varies by institution and continues to evolve.”[2] 
    In addition, financial services firms use AI tools in both cyber and fraud threat assessments. Integrating innovative AI into legacy systems may, however, create vulnerabilities. 
    In recent years, firms have discovered that AI may become a tool for addressing these vulnerabilities. Machine learning or generative AI may replace or enhance legacy tools for fraud and cyber detection and risk management strategies. AI is enabling firms to educate employees and customers and to identify gaps in their cybersecurity and fraud detection and prevention measures.[3]
    These issues are at the heart of the work of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and its mission[4] and resonate with my experiences as a lawyer in private practice, in-house, and my service as a Commissioner.[5] At the CFTC, I sponsor the Market Risk Advisory Committee (MRAC), a multi-stakeholder group of market participants that examines risk management issues and makes recommendations on how to improve market structure, mitigate risks, and enhance market integrity and stability for global derivatives markets.[6] MRAC has spent a significant amount of time considering cybersecurity and recommendations to enhance cyber resilience.[7] Fraud-related risks and applications are part of these conversations.
    We know that algorithmic models that may be accurately described as AI have long been employed in financial services markets[8] and that these applications include regulatory surveillance and compliance monitoring.[9] In recent years, however, the use and integration of predictive technologies has increased. 
    In January of 2024, the CFTC issued a request for comment seeking to learn more about the uses of AI in CFTC-regulated markets.[10] I applaud the Commission for issuing the RFC as a pathway to increase visibility and better understand the implications of AI use in our markets. This dialogue between the Commission and market participants aims to enable markets and the Commission to leverage the benefits of evolving AI models while mitigating risks.
    AI fraud and cyber threat prevention, detection, and mitigation represent common ground areas where the Commission and market participants are focused on the potential for AI to enhance market integrity.[11] 
    AI Fueled Cyber and Fraud Threats
    About a year ago, the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) released a report on Managing Artificial Intelligence-Specific Risks in the Financial Services Sector.[12] Several of the observations in the Treasury Report are unlikely to surprise this audience—cyber and fraud-related incidents continue to increase and, in parallel, the losses that firms experience as a result of these threats increase.[13]
    Surveyed market participants indicate that cyberthreat actors benefit from lower barriers to entry, increasingly sophisticated automation, and decreasing time-to-exploit.[14] Firms face cyberthreats from actors including opportunistic fraudsters with access to advanced AI tools to sophisticated nation-state hackers who deploy targeted attacks.
    AI-Driven Fraud
    Evidence suggests that hackers are repurposing AI-based tools previously used in cyber defense tactics to identify weaknesses in networks and cybersecurity applications.[15] These weaknesses open back doors for cyber attacks. Generative AI may enable sophisticated actors to execute more convincing phishing campaigns. Deep fakes and similar campaigns may be more difficult to identify. Generative AI may accelerate the creation of new malware variants, lowering the barrier to entry and empowering a greater number of less sophisticated threat actors.[16] As a result, time-to-exploit is shrinking and the overall risk level to financial organizations is climbing. Notwithstanding many AI developers’ efforts to prevent the adaptation of their models to facilitate fraud, there is a rising tide of misuse of AI technologies.
    Vulnerabilities of Technology
    In addition to cyber threats, the vulnerability of AI systems is equally concerning. Through data poisoning, model evasion, and model extractions, those seeking to adapt models may introduce false data, model weights, and similar tactics to corrupt the AI models to manipulate outputs to benefit their outcome and distort or steal from AI-driven processes.[17] These adaptations potentially undermine the reliability of the models as well as features designed to enable cybersecurity and fraud detection. Data privacy also presents a notable concern. 
    Synthetic Identities and Impersonation
    Identity impersonation and synthetic identity fraud are becoming ever more sophisticated. “Fraudsters can use AI to mimic voice, video, and other behavioral identity factors that financial institutions use to verify a customer’s identity.”[18] The ability to generate near-flawless fake credentials and believable digital appearances raises the stakes for banks, insurers, payment processors, and other financial entities that have traditionally relied on physical or behavioral markers for identification. Fraudsters posing as CEOs and CFOs have caused millions in losses by using AI to execute elaborate schemes to develop synthetic identities to convince company employees to make unauthorized transfers.[19] In response to these concerns, the Commission has issued customer education and outreach announcements to enhance market participants and customers’ awareness of these threats.[20]
    Third Party Risks
    Addressing these threats requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach to third-party risk management and data security. 
    According to the Treasury Report, “financial institutions should appropriately consider how to assess and manage the risks of an extended supply chain, including potentially heightened risks with data and data processing of a wide array of vendors, data brokers, and infrastructure providers.”[21] 
    In some instances, there may be high barriers to entry for providing third-party services. For example, few firms have the capability to offer globally accessible cloud-based services that demonstrate the requisite security protocols to enable financial services market participants to comply with substantial data security, integrity, and transfer standards. 
    As a result, only a few service providers may have the capability to deliver the quality of services needed or to respond to the vast amounts of data or information stored or processed by financial services firms. The limited competition for services may lead to a significant percentage of market participants relying on a handful of service providers.
    We may describe these concerns as concentration risks.[22] While CFTC-regulated entities must “assess the risks of using AI and update policies, procedures, controls, and systems, as appropriate, under applicable CFTC statutory and regulatory requirements,”[23] the Commission, as a regulator, should also take an active role in understanding these risks.
    Each of these links in the supply chain introduces potential vulnerabilities, especially with the increasing volume of data and the complexity of AI models. I have repeatedly raised these concerns.[24] It is important that all partners adhere to robust data protection, privacy guidelines, and contingency planning. These protocols are not only essential for safeguarding financial services firms, but also crucial for the resilience of the entire financial system.
    Next Steps 
    The Treasury Report suggested next steps that identify both challenges and opportunities. I’d like to highlight a few of them that resonate with me and some proposals that I have advocated for during my service at the CFTC.
    As I have intimated, as we study market participants’ use of AI, we are increasingly thoughtful about the Commission’s use of AI. As I’ve noted previously:
    The CFTC has on staff surveillance analysts, forensic economists, and futures trading investigators, each of whom identify and investigate potential violations. These groups use supervisory technology (SupTech) in support of their work. Over the past few years, the CFTC has transitioned much of its data intake and data analysis to a cloud-based architecture. This increases the flexibility and reliability of our data systems and allows us to scale them as necessary. This transition will allow the Commission to store, analyze, and ingest this data more cost-effectively and efficiently.[25]
    Coordination
    I have consistently encouraged both inter-agency and international coordination on issues related to AI.[26] 
    I have advocated for “the creation of an inter-agency task force composed of financial regulators…. [to develop] guidelines, tools, benchmarks, and best practices for the use and regulation of AI in the financial services industry.”[27]  As I have noted, “this approach promises efficiencies and a needed clarity for market participants trying to navigate diverse and sometimes divergent regulatory and compliance frameworks.”[28] 
    Financial services firms have indicated a desire to clarify regulatory approaches to innovative technologies. As reported to Treasury, “[s]ome financial institutions, however, expressed concern about the possibility of regulatory fragmentation as different financial sector regulators at both the state and federal level consider regulations around AI. This concern also extends to firms operating under different international jurisdictions.”[29] 
    Collaboration can help address significant issues and problems of scale, as well as some smaller changes that can help along the way. For example, the Treasury Report notes that “[a]s Generative AI increases in usage, there appears to be a significant gap in data available to financial institutions for training their models to prevent fraud….Ramifications of this data divide are especially apparent for anti-fraud use cases where larger institutions generally have much more internal data.”[30] This is not something that can be solved overnight, and will require thoughtful consideration and coordinated efforts.
    The Treasury Report also encourages clarifying how we understand AI by advocating for a common lexicon specific to AI. Developing an agreed upon definition  which would benefit financial institutions, regulators, and consumers alike, to “not only facilitate appropriate discussion with third parties and regulators but could help improve understanding of the capabilities AI systems may have to improve risk management or to amplify new risks,” and “may help address the current lack of clarity around measuring and identifying risks, especially with the rapid adoption of Generative AI. As noted in the introduction, terminology can have implications for the common understanding of AI technology and its associated risks as well.”[31]
    Conclusion
    I usually offer a standard disclaimer at the start of my remarks—something like, my thoughts are my own and do not reflect the perspectives of others. Today, however, I feel compelled to disclose that I used ChatGPT to draft this speech. Just kidding. 
    The research and development of this speech reflects weeks of effort by my staff and their patience with my not-so-gentle editing. However, as someone who spends significant amounts of time reading, studying, and processing data, I am tempted, at times, to defer to an increasingly capable generative AI model to serve as my speechwriter-in-chief. Assuming others will find tempting uses for AI as well, let’s figure out the best, responsible path for bringing this technology into our markets. 

    [1] The thoughts and perspectives that I share with you today are my own; they are not the views and perspectives of my fellow Commissioners, the Commission, or the staff of the CFTC.

    [3] Treasury Report at 12-15.

    [4] See, e.g., 7 U.S.C. § 5.

    [5] See, e.g., Keynote Remarks of Commissioner Johnson for Governing Data at Iowa Innovation and Business Law Center and Yale Law Journal of Law & Technology at Yale Law School: Twin Peaks – Emerging Technologies (AI) and Critical Third Parties (Apr. 4, 2025), https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/opajohnson16.

    [8] U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (Jan. 25, 2024), https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/PressReleases/8853-24 (citing Commissioner Kristin Johnson, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Financial Markets, Manuel F. Cohen Lecture, George Washington University Law School (Oct. 17, 2023) (describing the historic development and integration of increasingly complex algorithms including supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms in financial markets)).

    [11] For example, a joint letter from trade associations and exchanges referred to the use of AI for compliance processes and controls and the World Federation of Exchanges identified compliance as a use case, stating “AI can be used to reduce manual inputs for trade documentation and regulatory reporting, as well as reducing market manipulation….” See Letter from World Federation of Exchanges to CFTC, Regarding Response to Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (Apr. 24, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73447; Letter from Futures Industry Association, FIA Principal Traders Group, CME Group, Inc., and Intercontinental Exchange Inc. to CFTC, Regarding Release No. 8853-24 (Jan. 25, 2024) Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (Apr. 24, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73444. The Bank Policy Institute stated that “… AI models, including generative AI tools, are being evaluated or piloted [by banking organizations] to enhance operational efficiencies and risk mitigation in the cybersecurity and fraud prevention contexts.” See Letter from Bank Policy Institute to CFTC, Regarding Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (CFTC Release No. 8553-24) (Apr. 17, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73424.

    [12] See Treasury Report. 

    [13] Treasury Report at 10-11. Responses to the CFTC’s RFC also highlighted AI-driven fraud risk. For example, Letter from Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy to CFTC, Regarding Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC Regulated Markets (Apr. 24, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73457.

    [14] Treasury Report at 16.

    [15] See, e.g., id. at 17.

    [21] Treasury Report at 19.

    [29] Treasury Report at 35.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ukraine: Mine contamination is lethal legacy of Russia’s invasion

    Source: United Nations 2

    Peace and Security

    An estimated 100 million people in more than 60 countries and territories live under the threat of landmines and explosive ordnance – with war-torn Ukraine now the most heavily contaminated country in the world – the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) said on Monday.  

    Millions of mines have been scattered across the battlefields of Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion on 24 February 2022, making it the most dangerous place for unexploded weapons today.

    Rising toll

    And as armed violence escalates worldwide, the UN agency says that the number injured and killed by mines and other explosive ordnance rose by 22 per cent in 2024. That amounts to more than 1,000 extra victims compared to 2023, according to the specialized UN agency, which was established in 1997.

    Around 85 per cent of the victims of explosive ordnance worldwide are civilians and more than half are children.  

    Many of those at risk live in places where there is active conflict. But for some, the menace endures decades after the fighting ends.

    Force for good

    Mine action has existed for decades and has earned recognition as a key enabler for long-term peace and security, as well as development.

    “You can’t have full access to agriculture and food security if there are mines in the ground,” said James Staples, Chief for Policy, Advocacy, Donor Relations at UNMAS.

    “Children can’t go to school…You can’t create job…People can’t return to their homes, whether they’re IDPs or refugees,” Mr. Staples said, referring to internally displaced persons.

    Surging conflicts

    The surge in conflict is making the work of mine action specialists like UNMAS more difficult.  

    “We are seeing a number of conflicts growing both in terms of number in scope and in scale,” the UNMAS policy chief told journalists in Geneva, ahead of the mine action community’s annual conference in the Swiss city from 9 to 11 April.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed that message in his call to action on mine-clearance amid a “tragically surging” threat. “Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices continue to threaten lives, hinder humanitarian aid and peacekeeping and block rebuilding,” he said.

    In frontline regions of Ukraine, UN agencies also support awareness-building efforts to protect children from landmines. 

    Live-saving lessons

    “If we see one, we must call the police so they can remove it,” said Kira, a seven-year-old in the southeast city of Zaporizhzhia.

    Taking the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF)-partnered classes is Anna Popsui, Senior Inspector at the State Emergency Service, who says that she and her colleagues always give out stickers and colouring books once the lesson is over.

    “We also have lessons on what to do if they find themselves trapped under rubble,” adds Ms. Popsui.

    ‘Unimaginable horror’

    In a related development, a Russian strike on the city of Kryvyi Rih in central Ukraine on Friday killed at least 18 people and wounded another 75 including nine children. Most were playing at a park when the missile hit.

    The UN Human Rights Office in Ukraine called the attack the deadliest single strike harming children it has verified since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of the country in February 2022.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Telnyx builds momentum in Global Partner Motion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Austin, TX, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As part of its strategic expansion, Telnyx is launching a dedicated channel team to strengthen its global partner network. This initiative underscores Telnyx’s commitment to empowering solution providers, system integrators, MSPs, and distributors with the tools, support, and incentives needed for mutual success.

    Telnyx appointed Anwar Karzazi as VP of Global Partner Sales to lead its channel expansion. With extensive experience in scaling Partner Sales at Cloudflare, he will drive the channel team globally to accelerate growth and success. Additionally, Darren Laurie joined as Head of Partner Sales for EMEA from VMware, and Ron McNab is Head of Partner Sales for the Americas from Telarus, strengthening regional strategies to support partners in key markets.

    Empowering partners through a scalable program

    The new channel initiative will help Telnyx expand its presence in key markets by fostering strategic partnerships. Through a structured model, Telnyx will provide partners with increasing benefits, resources, and support to drive revenue and improve customer outcomes.

    “Our partners are at the core of our growth strategy. We’re committed to equipping them with the resources needed to succeed,” said Anwar Karzazi, VP of Global Partner Sales at Telnyx. “This initiative raises the bar by delivering top-tier benefits and rewarding excellence.”

    To support this effort, Telnyx is investing in dedicated channel resources and developing a scalable partnership framework that offers competitive incentives, seamless access to Telnyx solutions, and hands-on enablement.

    Aligning with Telnyx’s growth strategy

    “Expanding our partner network is a key driver of our long-term success,” said Ian Reither, COO at Telnyx. “By strengthening our global partnerships, we’re opening new paths for collaboration and innovation that will accelerate revenue growth and improve customer engagement.”

    This expansion aligns with Telnyx’s broader vision of scaling its business and reinforcing its position as a leader in connectivity and AI-driven solutions. Through its growing partner ecosystem, Telnyx aims to penetrate new markets, drive revenue, and deliver enhanced value to customers.

    About Telnyx

    Telnyx is a global connectivity and AI platform that powers voice, messaging, networking, and real-time AI solutions. Telnyx delivers ultra-low latency, enterprise-grade security, and unmatched reliability with a private IP network and direct carrier connections.

    For more information and updates, visit the Telnyx website and follow us on LinkedIn or X.

    Media contact

    Telnyx Media Relations
    press@telnyx.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AARP Endorses Sorensen, Ciscomani Bill to Crack Down on AI Robocalls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC – The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), representing more than 100 million Americans over the age of 50, recently endorsed Congressmen Eric Sorensen (IL-17) and Juan Ciscomani’s (AZ-6) Quashing Unwanted and Interruptive Electronic Telecommunications (QUIET) Act. The QUIET Act would require robocallers to disclose when they use artificial intelligence (AI) technology and increase penalties for scammers who use AI to impersonate individuals.  
    He reintroduced the legislation earlier this year with Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06). 

    “Endless robocalls are more than just annoying and frustrating, they can cause seniors to lose entire life savings when malicious scammers take advantage of new technology to impersonate their loved ones, their bank, or the government,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “I’m glad to have a partner in the AARP to help pass my bipartisan legislation that puts in place harsher penalties for scammers and protect our seniors from being unfairly targeted.” 

    “The advancement of technology combined with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) have transformed robocalls from an occasional nuisance into a powerful tool used by scammers and other bad actors to defraud Arizonans, particularly seniors, out of their hard-earned money,” said Congressman Juan Ciscomani. “I know my constituents are fed up, which is why I am proud to partner with the Rep. Sorensen and the AARP on this critical legislation to require robocallers to disclose the use of AI, cut down on fraudulent calls, and protect seniors in my district from malicious scams like these.” 

    “We appreciate your leadership in protecting consumers from the growing threat of AI-driven scams and in strengthening safeguards against fraudulent robocalls,” said Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at the AARP. “With AI’s growing ability to convincingly mimic voices and craft deceptive messages, the stakes have never been higher. The QUIET Act can help combat these deceptive tactics. The alarmingly high levels of fraud against older adults underscore that stronger protections are urgently needed.” 

    The QUIET Act increases penalties for violators who use AI to impersonate individuals or organizations with the intent to defraud, cause harm, or wrongfully obtain anything of value. This measure strengthens protections for seniors and vulnerable communities who are often the biggest targets of these scams.  

    Since coming to Congress, Sorensen has made fighting scam robocalls and robotexts a priority. Last Congress, he led a bipartisan effort urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to outline its plans to combat these scams, which disproportionately target older Americans.  

    Sorensen’s leadership on this issue underscores his commitment to keeping Illinois families safe from fraud and ensuring AI is not used as a tool to exploit hardworking people. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: A Colombian judge leads judicial transformation with Copilot 

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: A Colombian judge leads judicial transformation with Copilot 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Launches Bitget Onchain to Give CEX Users Early Access to Promising On-chain Assets 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, unveils Bitget Onchain — a groundbreaking innovation that bridges the best of CEX and DEX. By combining the speed, security, and simplicity of centralized platforms with direct access to emerging on-chain assets, Bitget Onchain redefines how users discover and trade the next wave of crypto opportunities.

    Bitget Onchain provides on-chain asset transactions directly on the Bitget App, for users utilizing a spot account with USDT or USDC. This integration will offer exchange-level trading experience without inherent complexity, simplifying the process of on-chain transactions for even new traders. The product will initially support Solana, BNB Smart Chain (BSC), and Base, featuring an initial batch of tokens including RFC, KTA, and 30 more.

    With security as the focus, Bitget Onchain incorporates centralized exchange-level protection to ensure a secure trading environment, even on-the-chain. Offering a broad selection of on-chain assets with real-time availability, Bitget Onchain provides access to early-stage tokens and emerging market opportunities. Continuous updates ensure users can navigate evolving trends efficiently, catering to both new and experienced traders.

    Leveraging AI, Bitget Onchain will introduce AI-driven smart screening to enhance investment precision by leveraging advanced algorithms to conduct real-time filtering of on-chain assets. This capability minimizes exposure to uninformed investments, enabling users to make strategic and data-driven decisions.

    “On-chain trading has long been riddled by complex set-ups, requiring users to navigate unfriendly interfaces and expose themselves to risks. Bitget Onchain was created to lower the barrier to entry, by providing a seamless and secure trading experience,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “Bitget Onchain will bridge the gap between centralized and decentralized trading, making web3 more accessible to all,” she added. 

    Bitget has consistently integrated AI into its ecosystem, enhancing trading precision, security, and user experience. Key AI-driven features include smart trading bots for automated strategies, AI-powered risk management tools, predictive analytics for market trends, and AI-enhanced copy trading to optimize investment decisions. With the launch of Bitget Onchain, AI-driven smart screening further refines asset selection, minimizing risk and improving trading efficiency.

    Bitget Onchain represents Bitget’s pursuit of innovative and smart solutions within the crypto exchange industry, integrating user experience with advanced security and market insights. By combining accessibility with highly advanced tools, Bitget Onchain aims to be the go-to platform for on-chain asset trading, bringing users even closer to Web3.

    To utilize Bitget On-chain’s features, please visit here.

    About Bitget

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

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

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

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b50d68bb-4077-4801-ac63-5f0df78ad8a4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MPUC TO HOLD PUBLIC WITNESS HEARING IN THE 10 PERSON COMPLAINT CONCERNING AN INCREASE IN RATES PERTAINING TO LORING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

    Source: US State of Maine

    April 7, 2025

    Hallowell, Maine– The Maine Public Utilities Commission will hold a public witness hearing in the 10 Person Complaint Concerning an Increase in Rates Pertaining to Loring Development Authority.

    Wednesday, April 16, 2025 6:00 p.m. Northern Maine Community College Edmund Conference Center Presque Isle, Maine Remote participation available

    Members of the public who are not a party to this case may present testimony or comments to the Commission on the issues in this proceeding. A sign language interpreter will be available. For more information regarding remote participation please email PUCPublicHearing@maine.gov

    All public documents in the case are available on the Commission’s Online Case Management System. Please reference Case #2024-00300.

    About the Commission The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers, while also helping achieve reductions in state greenhouse gas emissions. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service, gas safety and Dig Safe. Philip L. Bartlett, II serves as Chair, Patrick Scully and Carrie Gilbert serve as Commissioners.

    Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc

    Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc CONTACT: Susan Faloon, Media Liaison CELL: 207-557-3704 EMAIL: susan.faloon@maine.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: White House Releases New Policies on Federal Agency AI Use and Procurement

    Source: The White House

    WASHINGTON D.C — Today, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is delivering on President Trump’s decisive Executive Order to remove barriers to American leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI) by releasing two revised policies on Federal Agency Use of AI and Federal Procurement. These memos were revised at the direction of the Executive Order and in coordination with the Assistant to the President on Science and Technology and the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP).  

    Under President Trump’s leadership, America is well positioned to maintain our global dominance in AI. To better serve the public, the Federal Government must capitalize on the advantages of American innovation while maintaining strong protections for Americans’ privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties.

    “President Trump recognizes that AI is a technology that will define the future. This administration is focused on encouraging and promoting American AI innovation and global leadership, which starts with utilizing these emerging technologies within the Federal Government. Today’s revised memos offer much needed guidance on AI adoption and procurement that will remove unnecessary bureaucratic restrictions, allow agencies to be more efficient and cost-effective, and support a competitive American AI marketplace,” said Lynne Parker, Principal Deputy Director of the White House OSTP.

    The Office of the Federal Chief Information Officer’s Greg Barbaccia continued, stating that “Federal agencies have experienced a widening gap in adopting AI and modernizing government technology, largely due to unnecessary bureaucracy and outdated procurement processes. OMB’s new policies demonstrate that the government is committed to spending American taxpayer dollars efficiently and responsibly, while increasing public trust through the Federal use of AI.”

    Learn more:
    OMB Memorandum M-25-21, Accelerating Federal Use of AI through Innovation, Governance, and Public Trust
    OMB Memorandum M-25-22, Driving Efficient Acquisition of Artificial Intelligence in Government
    View the Fact Sheet  
     
    Questions? Contact MBX.OMB.Media@OMB.eop.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: World Health Day (7 Apr. 2025)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    On this World Health Day, France reiterates its support for a coordinated approach at the international level aimed at guaranteeing solid healthcare systems and universal access to care while resolutely combating inequality This is a prerequisite for collective health security.

    During this difficult international period, France reaffirms its full support for the World Health Organization (WHO) and the central role it plays in the global health architecture. It embodies international cooperation, scientific rigor and scrupulous standard-setting.

    France also reiterates its support for all international organizations that deal with global health. It is one of the main funders of such efforts and remains committed to the swift adoption of a pandemic agreement.

    In order to ensure global health security, France works in particular to advance the fight against epidemics; the promotion of maternal and child health; the One Health approach, which underscores the close ties between human health, animal health and ecosystems; universal health coverage; and the strengthening of healthcare systems. In this regard, the WHO Academy in Lyon, which opened its doors in December 2024, aims to become a global center of excellence for the training of healthcare workers.

    France reaffirms its commitment to global health and its conviction that health is a fundamental right for every human being. Since 2000, we have helped provide antiretroviral treatments to 25 million people with HIV/AIDS, treat more than 7 million tuberculosis patients, and distribute nearly 230 million mosquito nets. We have also participated in the vaccination of more than a billion children since 2000 and, through the Muskoka Fund, we funded care for more than 22 million women and children in 2023 to reduce maternal and child mortality.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at Jaguar Land Rover: 7 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    PM remarks at Jaguar Land Rover: 7 April 2025

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer gave remarks at Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing site in the West Midlands.

    Thank you Rachel and thank you Adrian.  

    And can I just say a big thank you to the entire workforce here. Some of you are here with us this afternoon. I just want to say thank you for showing us what you do. We have been able to see some of the skill and experience that you put into this incredible product, years and years in the making and the technology.

    But thank you also for making us proud to be British, because as each car rolls off here, that is rolling off your production line. That is your commitment, your toil, your work, your professionalism. But it is then a product which you should be rightly proud of, and we are really proud of as a country. 

    I know how much you put into that, and I want you to know just how much we appreciate what you do. 

    Thank you for everyone for joining us this afternoon. 

    Jaguar Land Rover, our leading exporter of goods, employing thousands of people across the West Midlands and beyond. 

    That proud symbol of British engineering brilliance. And brilliance is the right word. It is our industrial heritage, but also in my strongly held view, it is our industrial future, not just our heritage. 

    My message to you is simple: these are challenging times, but we have chosen to come here because we are going to back you to the hilt. 

    I think it’s really significant that after the announcement on Wednesday, we had Adrian with us in Downing Street at 7 o’clock the next morning, and here we are on Monday, so read into that a statement of intent because it is a statement of intent about how important this is for you, for us and for the country. 

    As Rachel has said, there is no doubt about the challenge, but this is a moment for cool heads.

    No one wins from a trade war. 

    But it is also a moment for urgency. 

    Because we have to rise, together as nation to the great challenge of our age, and it is the great challenge to renew Britain so that we are secure in this era of global instability. 

    Nobody is pretending that tariffs are good news. You know that better than anyone.  

    25% tariffs on automative exports. 10% on other goods. 

    That is a huge challenge to our future. The global economic consequences could be profound. But this moment has also made something very clear. 

    That this is not a passing phase. And just as we’ve seen with our national security and defence, particularly in relation to the war in Ukraine, now with our commerce and trade, 

    This is a changing and completely new world. 

    An era where old assumptions, long taken for granted, simply no longer apply. 

    Before the election – I called it an age of insecurity. And that is the right phrase. Insecurity. Because that’s how this is felt in the lives of working people. Insecurity and worry for builders, for carers, for nursers, for factory workers like people here in Coventry, working harder and harder for the pound in their pocket, yet watching this rising tide of insecurity threaten to sweep away the things we cherish in our communities. 

    Trust me – I know people will be feeling that right now. 

    But to those people, I say, we have your back. 

    This government will not just sit back and hope. 

    That is how politics has failed you in recent years. 

    Attempting to manage crises without fundamental change just leads to managed decline. 

    So no – we’re going to seize the possibilities. 

    Fight for the future. On defence spending, on AI, on clean British energy and on manufacturing, including car building.

    Make those forces work for Britain. Rewire our economy and our state so that once again they serve the interests of working people. 

    This is why we are rewiring the state completely.  

    Ripping up the regulation that stops it being a force for good. 

    Building new homes, new towns, new infrastructure. 

    Accelerating the investment that will finally unlock the potential of every community.  

    And let me be really clear as well. Our future is in our hands. 

    And so of course – we will keep calm and fight for the best deal with the US and we have been discussing that intensely in the last few days. 

    But we’re also going to work with our key partners to reduce barriers to trade across the globe. 

    Accelerate trade deals with the rest of the world and champion the cause of free and open trade – right across the globe. And just like car building, that has always been our heritage – and we won’t turn our backs on it now. 

    And look, when it comes to the US, I will only strike a deal if it is in the national interest. If it is the right thing to do for our security. If it protects the pound in the pocket that working people, across our country, work so hard to earn for their family. 

    That is my priority. That is always my priority. Strength abroad – security and renewal at home. 

    And on that journey of renewal we take another step today with our car industry. 

    You know, there are people in this country who love to talk down our manufacturing. They say – we don’t make anything important anymore. ‘That’s not Britain’. Well – I would invite anyone who thinks like that to come here and see what you do in this factory. 

    Anyone who is talking down manufacturing. Come here to Jaguar Land Rover and see what you are doing and they wouldn’t say that again. 

    Because just as I’ve said, when we were going around earlier, what I saw made me proud.

    And I hope that if I feel proud of what you are doing, you are entitled to feel proud of what you are doing. 

    This is British brilliance in the flesh. 

    You’re making cars here – but you’re also representing our country with each car as it departs. That’s the pride that always goes with making things. 

    And I’ve said it many times before, but I will say it again: my dad worked in a factory. He was an engineer. He made things with his hands. And he taught me as I was growing up, you should value the things that we make.

    And that’s what brilliant about manufacturing. And manufacturing shapes the identity of a place. This place, and of a community and a country. And that’s how it gets in your blood.  

    Which is why electric vehicles are so important. Yes – of course it’s about the climate and you won’t hear me undermining the urgency of that cause. 

    But it’s also about taking the pride, the heritage, the identity of places like this and securing it for the future. 

    That’s what the previous government never understood. The link between manufacturing and who we are as a country. 

    But those days are over. They are finished. This is a government of industrial renewal.

    Because my choice, in this volatile world is to back British brilliance. 

    I believe that British car companies should be at the forefront of the electric revolution. This is a race we belong in. 

    And so I think EV targets are a good thing. 

    They are good for the climate. Good for business certainty and investment. Good for British manufacturing. 

    But I accept – those targets have to work for British manufacturers.  

    And I don’t want British firms, like this one put in a position where you have to pay a hefty fine or buy credits from foreign EV companies. 

    So today – we’re going to introduce much more flexibility into EV mandates.  

    We’re going to help car companies based in Britain reach the targets in a way that supports growth. 

    We’re going to cut any fines – which I do not want or expect to see – by 20% and any money that is raised – would be invested directly back into support for the British car industry. 

    We’re also going to take action on hybrids because these cars make a massive difference to reducing emissions. 

    I mean, if you drive a Toyota Prius around town. Or, perhaps if you work here, a Range Rover you probably spend a lot of the time in electric mode. So I think for these vehicles a 2030 ban is too soon. So we’ll push that back to 2035 – for all hybrids. That’s a new step we are taking and a new announcement today. 

    And because we’re not ideological about how we cut carbon emissions, we’ll also make sure that cleaner, efficient, petrol cars sold before 2030 count towards your EV mandate. That will be good for British car manufacturers like this one. 

    As Rachel has said, we are also putting £2.3 billion pounds into the British car industry, giving people tax breaks worth hundreds of millions of pounds a year to help them switch to electric. 

    Improving charging infrastructure. That is a massive factor when people are thinking about switching and our approach means we are seeing a new public charging point popping up every half an hour.

    Because this is the moment when we back British business and charge up the electric revolution. 

    British electric cars running off clean British power, made by British workers. 

    British cars for British workers! 

    And as you know by the way switching to electric can also save you up to £1100 a year so if we get this right it can help the cost of living as well. 

    But look – it’s not just our car industry we need to back. 

    In the coming days and weeks, we are going to use industrial policy to shelter British business from the storm. 

    Take our life sciences sector, another shining example of British brilliance. An absolutely pivotal part of our export economy. We’re going to back them, as well. 

    We’re going to rip up the red tape. Cut the stifling bureaucracy that slows down clinical trials. Now Britain used to be better at this but we’ve taken our foot off the pedal.  

    The latest data says it takes over 250 days to set up a clinical trial. I’m going to slash that to 150.  

    And on top of that, I can also announce – a new investment up to £600 million in a new Health Data Research Service. A welcome partnership with the Wellcome Trust strengthening the genome cluster in Cambridge. 

    Making sure that patient data in our NHS is unlocked for the public good. An opportunity for growth – but more importantly to save lives with cutting edge medicine and Britain is so good at this. 

    We saw that in the pandemic. And we now need to pick up the pace again. This country has never waited around for history to shape us. We have shaped history – and we will do so again now. 

    Take our future into our hands. Do everything necessary to defend our national interest. 

    Strengthen our alliances, increase our defence power, support our businesses, jobs and workers. 

    Rebuild, in defiance of a volatile world, our industrial strength. 

    That is the purpose of this Government. Security and renewal. The world may be changing but we are driving forward securing our future with a clear Plan for Change.  

    Thank you. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Introducing the Llama 4 herd in Azure AI Foundry and Azure Databricks

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Introducing the Llama 4 herd in Azure AI Foundry and Azure Databricks

    We are excited to share the first models in the Llama 4 herd are available today in Azure AI Foundry and Azure Databricks, which enables people to build more personalized multimodal experiences. These models from Meta are designed to seamlessly integrate text and vision tokens into a unified model backbone. This innovative approach allows developers to leverage Llama 4 models in applications that demand vast amounts of unlabeled text, image, and video data, setting a new precedent in AI development.

    We are excited to share the first models in the Llama 4 herd are available today in Azure AI Foundry and Azure Databricks, which enables people to build more personalized multimodal experiences. These models from Meta are designed to seamlessly integrate text and vision tokens into a unified model backbone. This innovative approach allows developers to leverage Llama 4 models in applications that demand vast amounts of unlabeled text, image, and video data, setting a new precedent in AI development.

    Create with Azure AI Foundry

    Today, we are bringing Meta’s Llama 4 Scout and Maverick models into Azure AI Foundry as managed compute offerings:

    • Llama 4 Scout Models
      • Llama-4-Scout-17B-16E
      • Llama-4-Scout-17B-16E-Instruct
    • Llama 4 Maverick Models
      • Llama 4-Maverick-17B-128E-Instruct-FP8

    Azure AI Foundry is designed for multi-agent use cases, enabling seamless collaboration between different AI agents. This opens up new frontiers in AI applications, from complex problem-solving to dynamic task management. Imagine a team of AI agents working together to analyze vast datasets, generate creative content, and provide real-time insights across multiple domains. The possibilities are endless.

    To accommodate a range of use cases and developer needs, Llama 4 models come in both smaller and larger options. These models integrate mitigations at every layer of development, from pre-training to post-training. Tunable system-level mitigations shield developers from adversarial users, empowering them to create helpful, safe, and adaptable experiences for their Llama-supported applications.

    Llama 4 Scout models: Power and precision

    We’re sharing the first models in the Llama 4 herd, which will enable people to build more personalized multimodal experiences. According to Meta, Llama 4 Scout is one of the best multimodal models in its class and is more powerful than Meta’s Llama 3 models, while fitting in a single H100 GPU. And Llama4 Scout increases the supported context length from 128K in Llama 3 to an industry-leading 10 million tokens. This opens up a world of possibilities, including multi-document summarization, parsing extensive user activity for personalized tasks, and reasoning over vast codebases.

    Targeted use cases include summarization, personalization, and reasoning. Thanks to its long context and efficient size, Llama 4 Scout shines in tasks that require condensing or analyzing extensive information. It can generate summaries or reports from extremely lengthy inputs, personalize its responses using detailed user-specific data (without forgetting earlier details), and perform complex reasoning across large knowledge sets.

    For example, Scout could analyze all documents in an enterprise SharePoint library to answer a specific query or read a multi-thousand-page technical manual to provide troubleshooting advice. It’s designed to be a diligent “scout” that traverses vast information and returns the highlights or answers you need.

    Llama 4 Maverick models: Innovation at scale

    As a general-purpose LLM, Llama 4 Maverick contains 17 billion active parameters, 128 experts, and 400 billion total parameters, offering high quality at a lower price compared to Llama 3.3 70B. Maverick excels in image and text understanding with support for 12 languages, enabling the creation of sophisticated AI applications that bridge language barriers. Maverick is ideal for precise image understanding and creative writing, making it well-suited for general assistant and chat use cases. For developers, it offers state-of-the-art intelligence with high speed, optimized for best response quality and tone.

    Targeted use cases include optimized chat scenarios that require high-quality responses. Meta fine-tuned Llama 4 Maverick to be an excellent conversational agent. It is the flagship chat model of the Meta Llama 4 family—think of it as the multilingual, multimodal counterpart to a ChatGPT-like assistant.

    It’s particularly well-suited for interactive applications:

    • Customer support bots that need to understand images users upload.
    • AI creative partners that can discuss and generate content in various languages.
    • Internal enterprise assistants that can help employees by answering questions and handling rich media input.

    With Maverick, enterprises can build high-quality AI assistants that converse naturally (and politely) with a global user base and leverage visual context when needed.

    Architectural innovations in Llama 4: Multimodal early-fusion and MoE

    According to Meta, two key innovations set Llama 4 apart: native multimodal support with early fusion and a sparse Mixture of Experts (MoE) design for efficiency and scale.

    • Early-fusion multimodal transformer: Llama 4 uses an early fusion approach, treating text, images, and video frames as a single sequence of tokens from the start. This enables the model to understand and generate various media together. It excels at tasks involving multiple modalities, such as analyzing documents with diagrams or answering questions about a video’s transcript and visuals. For enterprises, this allows AI assistants to process full reports (text + graphics + video snippets) and provide integrated summaries or answers.
    • Cutting-edge Mixture of Experts (MoE) architecture: To achieve good performance without incurring prohibitive computing expenses, Llama 4 utilizes a sparse Mixture of Experts (MoE) architecture. Essentially, this means that the model comprises numerous expert sub-models, referred to as “experts,” with only a small subset active for any given input token. This design not only enhances training efficiency but also improves inference scalability. Consequently, the model can handle more queries simultaneously by distributing the computational load across various experts, enabling deployment in production environments without necessitating large single-instance GPUs. The MoE architecture allows Llama 4 to expand its capacity without escalating costs, offering a significant advantage for enterprise implementations.

    Commitment to safety and best practices

    Meta built Llama 4 with the best practices outlined in their Developer Use Guide: AI Protections. This includes integrating mitigations at each layer of model development from pre-training to post-training and tunable system-level mitigations that shield developers from adversarial attacks. And, by making these models available in Azure AI Foundry, they come with proven safety and security guardrails developers come to expect from Azure.

    We empower developers to create helpful, safe, and adaptable experiences for their Llama-supported applications. Explore the Llama 4 models now in the Azure AI Foundry Model Catalog and in Azure Databricks and start building with the latest in multimodal, MoE-powered AI—backed by Meta’s research and Azure’s platform strength.

    The availability of Meta Llama 4 on Azure AI Foundry and through Azure Databricks offers customers unparalleled flexibility in choosing the platform that best suits their needs. This seamless integration allows users to harness advanced AI capabilities, enhancing their applications with powerful, secure, and adaptable solutions. We are excited to see what you build next.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Penis Extender: Affiliate Credo Announces its Review of Quick Extender Pro

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Affiliate Credo, a globally recognized platform specializing in men’s wellness and performance enhancement, has officially published a new article discussing the Quick Extender Pro, a leading solution for non-invasive enhancement and curvature correction.

    The newly released publication focuses on answering key questions users may have about the device—its unique technology, the range of packages offered, how it is used, and how it compares to other traction-based systems. Instead of reviewing the product in depth, Affiliate Credo outlines what the article explores in detail: the patented Double Strap Support (DSS) system, user routines, medical insights, and frequently asked questions about safety, results, and pricing.

    Follow this link to read more about the article and access the full content

    Affiliate Credo Announces Why Quick Extender Pro Deserves Attention in 2025

    Affiliate Credo’s new penis extender review explores why Quick Extender Pro continues to gain recognition in 2025. It addresses what makes the DSS system different, how it improves traction consistency, and what types of users may benefit from choosing this penis traction device—particularly individuals managing Peyronie’s disease.

    The article also shares insights about the device’s compatibility with long-term routines and how it leverages clinically tested penile traction methods for progressive results.

    What Questions Are Covered in Affiliate Credo’s New Article

    The publication offers clarity on questions such as:

    • What are the main benefits of using Quick Extender Pro?
    • Which packages are available and who are they for?
    • How does the patented DSS technology differ from older systems?
    • What should new users expect in terms of comfort and use of this penis extender?
    • Are there real medical facts supporting the use of traction-based systems?

    Overview of Packages Discussed

    Readers will find a breakdown of the four key Quick Extender Pro packages, including pricing and the types of users each kit is intended for:

    • Value Edition for beginners ($119.93)
    • Deluxe Standard Edition for steady gains ($179.93)
    • Deluxe Limited Edition for full accessories ($349.93)
    • Peyronie’s & Curvature Edition for medical-grade correction ($179.99)

    Technology Overview: DSS Support System

    Affiliate Credo’s article covers the mechanics and innovation behind the DSS technology, explaining how it distributes pressure evenly and improves device stability, allowing extended wear time.

    Usage Guidelines & User Routines

    The review explains how users can begin using the best penis extender, including gradual tension increases, wear-time progression, and safety best practices. It emphasizes setting realistic expectations and maintaining consistency.

    Frequently Asked Questions Covered

    Affiliate Credo addresses the most common concerns users have, such as:

    • Is it safe?
    • Is it discreet?
    • Does it help with curvature?
    • What guarantee is offered?

    Exclusive Deal Shared

    Readers of the review are also informed about a limited-time 20% discount available through the website by using the promo code DEALDAY.

    About Affiliate Credo

    Affiliate Credo is a trusted platform for fitness and men’s health reviews. From testosterone supplements to traction devices, their expert analysis helps users make informed decisions.

    Kyiv, Ukraine, Berezhanska Street 18-91
    Email: hennadii.kamentsov@affiliatecredo.com
    Website: https://affiliatecredo.com/quickextenderpro

    Disclaimer

    Quick Extender Pro is not a medical device and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Consult your physician before starting traction therapy. Results will vary depending on individual use.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df3a26a0-11dc-4b14-9d4d-202e133f75f8

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/50826fc7-cab6-49c9-a02e-29c4357a9cb8

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI tutoring startup SigIQ.ai emerges from stealth with $9.5M to democratize elite education

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Berkeley, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — When SigIQ.ai’s AI tutor took India’s notoriously difficult UPSC civil service exam last June, it didn’t just pass – it achieved the highest score in the exam’s history, beating 1.3 million human candidates in under 7 minutes. Today, the Berkeley-based startup emerges from 18 months of stealth with $9.5 million funding to transform education through personalized AI tutoring that delivers elite-level instruction at the cost of computation, not hundreds of dollars per hour.

    The seed round was co-led by House Fund and GSV Ventures, with participation from Duolingo, General Catalyst India (Venture Highway), Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia India), Calibrate Ventures and angel investors, such as Andy Konwinski (Co-founder, Perplexity), Christian Storm (Co-founder & CTO, Turnitin), Prof. Trevor Darrell (Berkeley AI Research, UC Berkeley), Prof. Jitendra Malik (Berkeley AI Research, UC Berkeley), Prof. Srini Devadas (MIT), Prof. Sharad Malik (Princeton) and others. This investment will accelerate hiring top talent, enhancing AI models, and scaling platforms to educational systems worldwide.

    SigIQ.ai founders: Professor Kurt Keutzer and Dr. Karttikeya Mangalam. 

    SigIQ.ai’s technology directly addresses “Bloom’s Two-Sigma Problem” – the research finding that students receiving one-on-one tutoring perform two standard deviations better than those in traditional classrooms. This educational disparity has persisted for decades, with personalized tutoring remaining a luxury reserved for the privileged few. The company’s revolutionary approach shifts the cost of personalization from human labor to AI computation, making world-class instruction accessible at unprecedented scale.

    “We’re at a pivotal moment in education where modern GenAI can provide a personal 1:1 tutor to every student and reduce the cost of one-on-one learning from hundreds of dollars an hour to the cost of computation,” said Dr. Karttikeya Mangalam, CEO and co-founder of SigIQ.ai, a UC Berkeley AI PhD mentored by computer vision pioneer Prof. Jitendra Malik. “We’ve started by first creating a tutor that itself can ace the very exam students are preparing for. This is a necessary step to ensure accuracy and quality in teaching delivered. And will set a new benchmark in personalized education, making the highest-quality education accessible to everyone, regardless of geography or socioeconomic status, at a fraction of the traditional cost.”

    The company was founded in July 2023 by Dr. Karttikeya Mangalam and Professor Kurt Keutzer, a distinguished Professor in the Berkeley AI Research (BAIR) Lab who has published six books, over 250 refereed papers, and helped launch twelve startups. SigIQ.ai’s origin reflects its mission. Growing up in Muzaffarpur, Bihar – a region where educational opportunities are limited – Mangalam experienced firsthand the stark divide between small-town India and elite Western academic institutions. After completing his education at IIT Kanpur and then at UC Berkeley, he founded SigIQ.ai to democratize access to world-class education globally.

    SigIQ.ai latest product is EverTutor.ai, designed for GRE preparation in the US market, has already gained more than 10,000 users in just 3 of launch.

    In just 18 months, SigIQ.ai has launched two products with remarkable traction. PadhAI, focused on UPSC exam preparation in India, has attracted over 200,000 learners in just six months. On June 16, 2024, moments after the actual 2-hour UPSC Prelims exam had finished, PadhAI’s AI tutor solved the entire paper in a live demonstration in under 7 minutes at The Leela in Delhi. It achieved a score of 175/200 – not just the highest score in 2024, but the highest score ever achieved in UPSC prelims history, far exceeding the typical qualifying score of 100/200. This historic achievement was covered by over 70 news outlets across India, including The Hindu and The Times of India.

    The company’s newer offering, EverTutor.ai, designed for GRE preparation in the US market, has already gained more than 10,000 users since launching three months ago.

    Inside SigIQ.ai’s EverTutor product designed to support GRE preparation. 

    “SigIQ.ai isn’t just a regular EdTech startup — they’ve built an AI system that publicly demonstrated its ability to outperform both humans and leading commercial AI models on one of the world’s most challenging exams. This redefines what’s possible in personalized education,” said Jeremy Fiance, Managing Director of The House Fund.

    What differentiates SigIQ.ai from other educational AI tools is its approach to personalization. Unlike basic conversational AI that offers scripted or limited interactivity, SigIQ’s systems are highly interactive, responsive to follow-up questions, and capable of personalized instruction and feedback – not just chat. As a result, this technology replicates the behavior of a real tutor. Students using the platform report a 30-40% increase in effective study hours while improving performance by 18% in the first month, with over 75% feeling more confident tackling difficult topics within just three weeks.

    Looking ahead, SigIQ.ai plans to expand its reach with EverTutor, supporting more GRE takers in the upcoming spring and fall. The company will be present at ASU+GSV to demonstrate the newest developments in both platforms. Beyond standardized tests, SigIQ.ai envisions a future where their technology transforms education broadly, creating a new era where high-quality learning isn’t limited by geography, language, or economic status. Ultimately, the team is set on proving that elite education doesn’t have to be scarce – it can and must be universal.

    Ends 

    Media images can be found here. 

    About SigIQ.ai
    Founded in 2023 by Dr. Karttikeya Mangalam, SigIQ.ai builds AI-powered learning tools that deliver personalized education at scale. With offices in Berkeley and Gurgaon, the company’s flagship products PadhAI and EverTutor.ai serve hundreds of thousands of students globally. Recognized across India for its feat of achieving the top score on the UPSC 2024 live, SigIQ.ai is poised to transform the future of education.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Pax8 Names Craig Foster as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pax8, the leading cloud commerce marketplace, today announced the appointment of Craig Foster as its new Chief Financial Officer. In this role, Foster will set the financial course for Pax8 and oversee all aspects of the company’s financial strategy to ensure it continues driving sustainable growth and innovation. His leadership will be instrumental in guiding financial governance, optimizing growth opportunities and scaling the financial operations. Foster will report to Scott Chasin, Chief Executive Officer at Pax8.

    “With Craig’s extensive financial leadership in the tech industry and investment banking experience, he is the perfect fit for this role,” said Chasin. “We are thrilled to have Craig join Pax8 as part of the global leadership team. As Pax8 continues our rapid growth trajectory, we expect him to make a lasting impact on our future success.”

    Foster has 25 years of management experience in finance, operations and capital markets, having served as CFO of several public and private technology companies, including Ubiquiti, Bright Machines and Financial Engines. Before joining Pax8, he was the CFO of PicsArt, a consumer software company. Prior to his executive roles, Foster worked in the enterprise software investment banking groups of Credit Suisse, UBS and RBC Capital Markets. Mr. Foster holds an MBA in Finance from the Wharton School of Business and a BA in Economics from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD).

    “I am thrilled to join Pax8 at such an exciting time for the company and the industry,” said Foster. “My entire career has been spent working with software technology companies, sales channels and complex marketplaces, so I feel extremely fortunate to be joining an organization that unifies all of these into a single operating model.”

    To learn more about Pax8, please visit www.pax8.com.

    About Pax8
    Pax8 is the technology marketplace of the future, linking partners, vendors, and small to midsized businesses (SMBs) through AI-powered insights and comprehensive product support. With a global partner ecosystem of nearly 40,000 managed service providers, Pax8 empowers SMBs worldwide by providing software and services that unlock their growth potential and enhance their security. Committed to innovating cloud commerce at scale, Pax8 drives customer acquisition and solution consumption across its entire ecosystem.

    Follow Pax8 on Blog, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube

    Media Contact:
    Kristen Beatty
    Sr. Director of Public Relations
    kbeatty@pax8.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3dadf590-328b-43d2-b800-647fef658767

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches 100x Leverage Crypto Futures Trading with Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus – No KYC Required

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In the past 24 hours, most major cryptocurrencies have plunged more than 10%, with Bitcoin briefly falling below $75,000. The sharp sell-off was triggered by President Trump’s new tariff war, sparking panic across global markets. Analysts are warning: the bear market may have officially arrived.

    In a bear market, smart investors know that simply holding spot assets is not enough. 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred strategy to profit from both market rises and falls. BexBack Exchange is leading the way, empowering traders with the tools and bonuses needed to succeed.

    To help traders capture these new opportunities, BexBack is offering:

    • 100x Leverage: Trade up or down with maximum flexibility.
    • Double Deposit Bonus: Get 100% bonus on every deposit over 0.001 BTC or 100 USDT.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus: Complete your first trade and receive a $50 USDT bonus — usable for trading and loss protection (not withdrawable).
    • No KYC Required: Start trading immediately with no identity verification.

    Bonus Details

    • 100% Deposit Bonus:
      • The bonus itself cannot be withdrawn directly.
      • However, profits generated using the bonus can be freely withdrawn.
      • The bonus can also serve as extra margin, reducing the risk of liquidation.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus:
      • Acts as loss protection for trading.
      • It is not directly withdrawable but can be fully used for trading activities.

    Why Choose 100x Leverage Futures Trading Now?

    • Profit From Falling Markets: Short and earn even in a bear market.
    • Amplify Profits With Less Capital: Trade large positions with minimal investment.
    • Efficient Capital Management: Free up funds for broader strategies.
    • Flexible Leverage Options: Choose from 25x, 50x, 75x, or 100x.
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kenya’s courts are corruption hotspots – radical actions the chief justice must take

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Gedion Onyango, Research Fellow, Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, London School of Economics and Political Science

    Kenya’s chief justice, Martha Koome, announced a change of strategy in March 2025 to fight corruption in the judiciary. The country’s courts are some of the hotspots of corrupt practices, from bribery of judges to obstruction of justice. The judiciary will now partner with the national anti-corruption commission and the National Intelligence Service to identify patterns, hotspots and individuals for early intervention. Gedion Onyango, who researches public accountability, anti-corruption and whistleblowing reforms, examines the new multi-agency approach.

    What is the context in which this multi-agency strategy was announced?

    The Kenyan judiciary has been tainted by corruption for decades. More than half of Kenyans surveyed in 2024 believed some judges and magistrates were corrupt; 22.9% believed most were corrupt. In another national survey 10 years earlier, 35% of Kenyans regarded the judiciary as highly corrupt.

    The apparent improvement in public perceptions (from 35% to 22%) may stem from anti-corruption efforts in Kenyan courts. The positive changes could also result from robust judicial leadership in recent years.

    Most recently, there have been calls for the chief justice to resign for failing to act against corrupt judges and magistrates.

    The judicial anti-corruption initiative isn’t entirely new. It represents a will to implement the existing policy and laws that have evolved from previous initiatives.

    Anti-corruption policies in Kenya have shifted to multi-agency frameworks. This strategy acknowledges the intertwined nature of corruption. The approach has to be cohesive, unified and well coordinated, in the public and private sectors.

    Kenya’s lead anti-corruption agency is the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. Since 2015, the agency has sought to re-engineer the fight against corruption through collective action and partnerships with a range of public and private sector players.

    This strategy draws from lessons learned from failed approaches from the past. The Public Service Integrity Program, for instance, combined law enforcement and prevention approaches.

    Why the multi-agency approach against corruption?

    Multi-agency initiatives offer several advantages in the fight against corruption.

    First, they give those involved a sense of owning the policy and having responsibility. As a result, the responsibility for combating corruption is shared rather than resting solely with the national anti-corruption commission.

    This addresses a gap in the battle against corruption not just in Kenya but in other countries.

    Policy ownership ensures that anti-corruption measures are better integrated into the unique complexities and norms of each sector. It enhances policy awareness among key actors, communication through diverse engagements, research through shared studies and assessments, stakeholder engagements, and training across sectors.

    Second, the multi-agency approach creates interdependence. Each participating institution contributes distinct expertise. This approach is clear in the new strategy, where the National Intelligence Service uses intelligence to identify areas susceptible to corruption in the judiciary.

    Third, multi-agency initiatives are more likely to cultivate trust among diverse stakeholders. They engage and share responsibilities. Partners become familiar with each other’s strengths and challenges, as well as their own limitations.

    Read more: Kenya’s whistleblowers are key to fighting corruption: how a new law could protect them

    Multi-agency initiatives can turn into islands of performance, building a professional community united by a common purpose.

    My 2024 study of collaborative arrangements in Kenya shows that cultivating trust among partners is critical. It is the glue binding agencies in complex governance areas, such as security.

    I found that when trust is absent from a multi-agency initiative, its operations tend to be symbolic and inefficient.

    What are the obstacles to joint action?

    The potential obstacles to joint action may stem from lack of commitment, power play among actors, poor coordination and weak leadership.

    A combination of these factors will lead to ineffective communication, distrust, and even conflicts.

    Another critical factor is political interference. According to a 2023 survey, political elites have misused state power and resources. This has fostered a culture of corruption in public life.

    Another related obstacle is under-funding of anti-corruption agencies, the judiciary and other oversight institutions. This has a bearing on staff retention, and effective operations of the commission and other public institutions. Under these circumstances, it is no surprise that some institutions have been inhabited by individuals with questionable integrity.

    This suggests that some national anti-corruption institutions are ill-positioned to spearhead joint actions to tackle corruption.

    What are the chances of success for the new multi-agency approach?

    The Kenyan judiciary requires more than just a multi-agency strategy to combat corruption within its ranks. It has been a core member of the Kenya Leadership and Integrity Forum for years, but has yet to do some of the things that were required. The proposed court integrity committees do not differ much from the court performance committees outlined in the programme.

    The judiciary has been a partner in other multi-agency arrangements too. But the courts continue to be hotspots for corruption.

    Read more: Hotbed of corruption: Kenya’s elite have captured the state – unrest is inevitable

    What would success look like?

    Judicial corruption cannot be addressed in isolation. It reflects the overall state of corruption in the country. Effective solutions must involve reforms tailored to the sector, supported by genuine political will.

    Read more: The art of bribery: a closeup look at how traffic officers operate on Kenya’s roads

    The chief justice’s public acknowledgement of corruption within her own courts is a positive step. But she must take more radical actions. These include prosecuting and removing high court judges and other officials, establishing a system to compensate victims of court corruption, and actively engaging civil society groups.

    – Kenya’s courts are corruption hotspots – radical actions the chief justice must take
    – https://theconversation.com/kenyas-courts-are-corruption-hotspots-radical-actions-the-chief-justice-must-take-253753

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister turbocharges medical research

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Prime Minister turbocharges medical research

    Better and faster access to NHS data for researchers with gold standard security and privacy measures.

    • Latest in a series of pro-growth measures to build a strong, resilient economy with more well-paid jobs.     
    • Changes will help make Britain the best country in the world for medical research, driving growth that puts more money in people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.
    • Next step in delivering the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and unlocking the potential of the Oxford‑Cambridge Growth Corridor.

    The Prime Minister has today announced action to accelerate the discovery of life-saving drugs, improve patient care and make Britain the best place in the world for medical research.

    The Government and the Wellcome Trust will invest up to £600 million to create a new Health Data Research Service. This will transform the access to NHS data by providing a secure single access point to national-scale datasets, slashing red tape for researchers.

    Clinical trials will also be fast-tracked to accelerate the development of the medicines and therapies of the future, with the current time it takes to get a clinical trial set up cut to 150 days by March 2026 – where latest data collected in 2022 was over 250 days. This will be achieved by cutting bureaucracy and standardising contracts so time isn’t wasted on negotiating separate details across different NHS organisations, and ensuring transparency by publishing trust level data for the first time.

    Through this new drive, patients will have improved access to new treatments and technologies. We already saw the power of health data during the pandemic and this will allow the NHS to make huge strides in patient care.

    The changes are a major boost for the life sciences sector as the Government goes further and faster in delivering the Plan for Change and reshaping our economy in response to the new era of global insecurity.

    They follow key steps to support the British car industry and form part of our modern Industrial Strategy, which includes life sciences. Full plans will be published alongside the Spending Review later this year.

    Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said:

    The new era of global insecurity requires a Government that steps up, not stands aside.

    That is why we are going further and faster in reshaping our economy and delivering our Plan for Change.

    Life sciences, like our brilliant car industry, is a great British success story.

    The measures I am announcing today will turbo-charge medical research and deliver better patient care. I am determined to make Britain the best place in the world to invest in medical research.

    That is not just good for patients and their families. It means growth that puts more money in working people’s pockets with more, better paid jobs.

    Patient confidentiality will continue to be held to a gold standard with these changes – with rigorous security measures being in place, like anonymity and virtual locked rooms, to ensure no one’s health data is compromised.

    The Health Data Research Service brings access to data for medical research into one secure and easy-to-use location, meaning a researcher doesn’t have to navigate different systems or make multiple applications for information for the same project.

    This improvement – which will begin from the end of 2026 – will speed up the process and could set the UK on a path to cure cancer, dementia, and arthritis quicker, which will improve patient outcomes and help turbocharge the economy.

    It follows the recent decision to scrap NHS England to do away with unnecessary bureaucracy and make government work better for people, patients, and the economy.

    The new service will be housed at the Wellcome Genome Campus in Cambridgeshire, where Wellcome is building a range of new R&D lab and office spaces to expand the current campus’s capacity for innovative genomics and biodata companies.

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said:

    Our Plan for Change will unleash the unparalleled power of NHS data, catalysing our efforts to fix the broken health service.

    We will unblock the barriers preventing our greatest scientists from safely accessing what they need to save patients’ lives – while keeping data secure.

    This venture will drive vital investment into the UK and put us at the epicentre of breakthroughs in science.

    If we can combine the care of the NHS with the ingenuity of our world-leading scientists, our health service could truly become the envy of the world.

     Science Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Building an NHS fit for the future is central to this government’s Plan for Change. Ensuring our research community can access the data which will drive untold improvements for patients across the country is key to that ambition.

    This is a service which has truly transformative potential – giving health experts access to the insights they need to drive forward more research and more clinical trials quicker than ever before.

    Protecting the data and anonymity of patients is non-negotiable. That’s why we’re also putting robust protections in place to make sure the incredible benefits we will all receive from this service will never come at a personal cost.

    Professor Sir Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, said:

    Improving health for future patients and future generations depends on medical research, and that depends on data.

    Bringing health data together will allow scientists to understand diseases, to prevent them and to develop new treatments more quickly and more effectively to improve future health.

    John-Arne Røttingen, Chief Executive of Wellcome, said:

    There is so much more we could learn from health data in this country by joining it up better.

    The new service will give researchers a way to easily harness the data held across different parts of the NHS. The simpler it is to analyse data or identify patients to join clinical trials, the more quickly we can improve our understanding of illness and develop new treatments.

    Providing a single, secure service for approved researchers will take away the significant overhead associated of locating, accessing and comparing disparate datasets. It will create opportunities for patients to access new treatments through trials that would otherwise have been hard to arrange or conduct.

    We’re pleased to be providing our support to help establish the new service quickly. This public-philanthropic partnership will put public trust in the use of health data at the heart of its approach.

    Dr Vin Diwakar, National Director of Transformation at NHS England, said:

    We’ve seen over the past few years the vital role that research plays in improving healthcare – from the rollout of the Covid vaccine to the development of new cancer treatments – and this new service will transform how that research is carried out.

    The Health Data Research Service will remove the complexities of accessing data through multiple systems while making sure the very highest security and privacy measures remain in place, including using secure data environments to protect patient confidentiality and ensure NHS data doesn’t leave NHS IT systems.

    We’ll continue to seek feedback from the public as we develop the service and will only allow access to NHS data where there is likely to be a direct benefit to NHS patients – so that health researchers can get the data they need faster, and patients can benefit from advances in treatments much sooner.

    Executive director of policy at Cancer Research UK, Dr Ian Walker, said:

    This is a welcome and much-needed investment from the government. The information held within NHS data could help to improve our understanding of diseases like cancer and contribute to the creation of effective new treatments.

    Despite its huge potential, access to this data has long been a significant challenge for the research sector, and anything that unleashes the power of NHS data, whilst protecting the security and anonymity of patients, will help enormously.

    The UK can lead the world in data science for the benefits of patients both at home and abroad. It will be essential to consult with patients every step of the way.

    STAKEHOLDER REACTION

    Professor Cathie Sudlow, Former Chief Scientist and Strategic Advisor, Health Data Research UK, and author of the Sudlow Review: Uniting the UK’s Health Data: A Huge Opportunity for Society, said:

    Today’s announcement of a Health Data Research Service, a central recommendation of my recently published review of the UK’s health data landscape, is a major step forward for UK health research. It has the potential to be a game-changer, by accelerating secure, trustworthy, data-driven research to improve patient care and public health for the tens of millions of people in this country and beyond.

    The service should enable faster, more reliable access for approved researchers to the data needed to tackle society’s most pressing health research needs – to develop and test new approaches for preventing, diagnosing and treating health conditions such as cancer, dementia, heart disease, depression, arthritis and infectious outbreaks. It should support better studies, quicker answers for the health and care system and, ultimately, faster, better outcomes for patients and their families.

    Turning this investment from the UK Government and Wellcome into something that delivers will demand focus, cooperation across multiple organisations,  attention to detail and – crucially – ongoing, meaningful involvement of patients, public and health and care professionals. However, with the UK’s rich health data assets and strong life sciences and data science research capabilities, I am confident that we can make this work for everyone’s benefit.

    Nicola Perrin, Chief Executive of the Association of Medical Research Charities, said:

    The announcement of a Health Data Research Service is excellent news – for patients, for the NHS and for UK life sciences. Sustained, ringfenced funding – from the Government and Wellcome as a charitable funder – is the best way to unlock the power of NHS data to transform research and to improve health outcomes. 

    This partnership is exactly what is needed to help to ensure a trustworthy approach, and to build confidence among public, patients and healthcare professionals which will be so crucial for success. We look forward to engaging closely with the new HRDS as the plans develop, building on and consolidating the multiple initiatives that currently exist for data access.

    Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden, said:

    I’ve seen first-hand how harnessing NHS data can accelerate and improve cancer research – so today’s news is hugely welcome for cancer patients and researchers alike. 

    By offering our world leading researchers a centralised, convenient and highly secure central hub for medical research, innovative and potentially life changing developments could become more likely, helping to transform cancer patient lives.

    Emma Walmsley, Chief Executive Officer, GSK, said:

    We welcome the ambition and urgency of today’s announcements on health data and clinical trials. The UK has unique potential to bring health data securely together with an NHS system that recognises the value of innovation, to accelerate and deliver the next generation of medicines and vaccines for patients. This offers value to society and to the economy. What matters now is execution at pace and we stand ready to support.

    Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

    This is a game-changing initiative that could drive faster progress for people with dementia and bring us closer to a cure. Better access to high-quality NHS data will help researchers understand the diseases behind dementia in greater detail, spot those at risk sooner, and develop effective new treatments more quickly.

    The UK is home to some of the most detailed, nationwide, life-long health datasets in the world, with huge potential to transform how we prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat major health conditions. But right now, researchers face barriers that stop them unlocking this data’s full, life-saving power. By cutting red tape around data access and clinical trials, the UK can accelerate the development of new diagnostics and treatments, and become a magnet for global investment. Dementia is the nation’s biggest killer, and with no treatments currently available on the NHS that slow or stop the condition, this momentum couldn’t come at a more urgent time.

    To make the new Health Data Research Service work, people affected by dementia must be at the heart of how the system is designed. With the right safeguards in place, trusted access to NHS data can be a powerful force for good – helping the UK lead the world in life sciences and transform the outlook for everyone affected by dementia in the UK.

    Dr Samantha Walker, Director of Research and Innovation at Asthma + Lung UK, said:

    The new health data service has the potential to make a huge difference to the health of the nation. Improved access to such a wealth of data is fantastic news for health research, and will help researchers better understand lung disease, which will affect 12 million people in the UK during their lifetime.

    Decades-long underinvestment has left lung research on life support. But this new investment into data will help scientists better understand early development and progression of lung disease, ultimately leading to better diagnosis, treatment and management.

    Every five minutes, someone in the UK dies a from lung condition. ​Urgent action is needed to increase investment into lung research to give everyone fighting for breath a future. Because breakthroughs can happen and when they do, they save lives. Our vision is a world where everyone has healthy lungs.

    Professor James Leiper, Director of Research at the British Heart Foundation, said:

    This investment in the huge potential of data science is a welcome and farsighted move.

    Health data has the power to give us unparalleled insights into cardiovascular disease, and will supercharge research which promises to save lives in the years to come.

    Ensuring cardiovascular researchers have simplified access to the wealth of data the NHS holds, while also ensuring security and patient confidentiality, will place the UK at the cutting edge of data science for health. We look forward to hearing further detail on plans in the coming months.

    Jacob Lant, Chief Executive at National Voices, said: 

    As patients, our health records can fuel a revolution in medical research that will both help the NHS and ensure communities across the country get faster access to groundbreaking new treatments.

    The Government’s new partnership with the Wellcome Trust can unlock this potential by offering scientists easier access to data, but crucially also giving the public concrete guarantees around data security and anonymity. This is vital to building the public trust needed to move forward and realise the full benefits of modern medical research.

    Dr. Sam Barrell, CEO of LifeArc, said:

    Rapid, transparent, and secure access to high-quality linked health data is essential for translation of research into tangible patient benefit. This is especially crucial for those with rare diseases, where large-scale data and international collaboration are vital.

    Today’s funding announcement is a welcome signal to the sector that the UK is committed to making life science life changing, powered by health data.

    Kieran Winterburn, Alzheimer’s Society’s Head of National Influencing, said:

    Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. Research will beat dementia, but we need to make it a reality sooner – through more funding, more partnership working, better access to data and more people taking part in dementia research.

    That’s why Alzheimer’s Society welcomes the Prime Minister’s announcement today that red tape will be slashed for researchers, with a new secure, single access point to NHS data. Dementia researchers can face gridlock with a lengthy and complex process to access NHS data, navigating through various systems to gather the information they need for vital population and clinical studies.

    As well as improving access to existing data, we also need to see improvements in the recording, analysis and collation of health data generally. There’s a serious disconnect between the scale and urgency of dementia as a condition and the relative scarcity of existing data on it. Having more data on dementia published will be crucial to improving diagnosis, care, and service planning.

    We’re so proud that Alzheimer’s Society-funded research 30 years ago led to the breakthroughs in disease-modifying treatments we’ve seen recently.  Research we fund now, powered by better access to data, will be pivotal in unlocking more breakthroughs.

    Dr Jeanette Dickson, Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, said:

    We know the UK can deliver high quality international practice-changing research and this tremendous initiative will enable our scientists to perform at their best by providing safe access to essential data – which in turn will improve care, speed up innovation and drive economic growth.

    Anna Steere, Head of Understanding Patient Data, said:

    This is a really welcome step toward improving how health data is used to speed up research and deliver public benefit. Research shows that people are generally supportive of their data being used in this way — but they want to see transparency, strong governance and security at the heart. We are pleased to see a commitment to working with patient groups in shaping how the service is designed and run. Getting this right from the outset is key to building lasting public confidence.

    Professor Ford is also the Co-Founder and Director of the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank in Wales, said:

    I am really delighted to hear of this recent announcement, which will bring a very substantial and much needed investment into the UK’s data infrastructure. The SAIL Databank looks forward to playing its part in making the new exciting vision a reality.

    The National Data Guardian, Dr Nicola Byrne, said:

    Access to data is essential for researchers and innovators to transform great ideas into real health improvements. With the right safeguards in place, the public is eager to see data used to drive new treatments, improve services, and tackle health inequalities.

    To maintain the public’s trust, it’s crucial that data security, clear public benefits, and full transparency around data access and use remain at the forefront. I look forward to working with others to ensure the new Health Data Research Service meets these expectations, unlocking the power of data to benefit patients and the public alike.

    Professor Andrew Morris, Director of Health Data Research UK, said:

    As a doctor and researcher, the announcement of a Health Data Research Service is a day many of us have been waiting for. It is a big investment in the future health of the nation. 

    We have a rich abundance of health data in this country thanks to the NHS. The team at HDR UK demonstrated for the first time last year that UK wide studies harnessing data on 68M people is possible for public benefit. But the system remains slow and fragmented which means that safe and secure research using the data is delayed or prevented for months and years. This is stalling advances that could benefit millions of patients and is wasting taxpayers’ money and medical charity donations invested in research.

    A Health Data Research Service was the main recommendation of the Sudlow Review, which offered a set of solutions to tackle these problems and for which Health Data Research UK provided the secretariat. So I am delighted that within a few months of publication.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Kenya’s courts are corruption hotspots – radical actions the chief justice must take

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Gedion Onyango, Research Fellow, Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, London School of Economics and Political Science

    Kenya’s chief justice, Martha Koome, announced a change of strategy in March 2025 to fight corruption in the judiciary. The country’s courts are some of the hotspots of corrupt practices, from bribery of judges to obstruction of justice. The judiciary will now partner with the national anti-corruption commission and the National Intelligence Service to identify patterns, hotspots and individuals for early intervention. Gedion Onyango, who researches public accountability, anti-corruption and whistleblowing reforms, examines the new multi-agency approach.

    What is the context in which this multi-agency strategy was announced?

    The Kenyan judiciary has been tainted by corruption for decades. More than half of Kenyans surveyed in 2024 believed some judges and magistrates were corrupt; 22.9% believed most were corrupt. In another national survey 10 years earlier, 35% of Kenyans regarded the judiciary as highly corrupt.

    The apparent improvement in public perceptions (from 35% to 22%) may stem from anti-corruption efforts in Kenyan courts. The positive changes could also result from robust judicial leadership in recent years.

    Most recently, there have been calls for the chief justice to resign for failing to act against corrupt judges and magistrates.

    The judicial anti-corruption initiative isn’t entirely new. It represents a will to implement the existing policy and laws that have evolved from previous initiatives.

    Anti-corruption policies in Kenya have shifted to multi-agency frameworks. This strategy acknowledges the intertwined nature of corruption. The approach has to be cohesive, unified and well coordinated, in the public and private sectors.

    Kenya’s lead anti-corruption agency is the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. Since 2015, the agency has sought to re-engineer the fight against corruption through collective action and partnerships with a range of public and private sector players.

    This strategy draws from lessons learned from failed approaches from the past. The Public Service Integrity Program, for instance, combined law enforcement and prevention approaches.

    Why the multi-agency approach against corruption?

    Multi-agency initiatives offer several advantages in the fight against corruption.

    First, they give those involved a sense of owning the policy and having responsibility. As a result, the responsibility for combating corruption is shared rather than resting solely with the national anti-corruption commission.

    This addresses a gap in the battle against corruption not just in Kenya but in other countries.

    Policy ownership ensures that anti-corruption measures are better integrated into the unique complexities and norms of each sector. It enhances policy awareness among key actors, communication through diverse engagements, research through shared studies and assessments, stakeholder engagements, and training across sectors.

    Second, the multi-agency approach creates interdependence. Each participating institution contributes distinct expertise. This approach is clear in the new strategy, where the National Intelligence Service uses intelligence to identify areas susceptible to corruption in the judiciary.

    Third, multi-agency initiatives are more likely to cultivate trust among diverse stakeholders. They engage and share responsibilities. Partners become familiar with each other’s strengths and challenges, as well as their own limitations.



    Read more:
    Kenya’s whistleblowers are key to fighting corruption: how a new law could protect them

    Multi-agency initiatives can turn into islands of performance, building a professional community united by a common purpose.

    My 2024 study of collaborative arrangements in Kenya shows that cultivating trust among partners is critical. It is the glue binding agencies in complex governance areas, such as security.

    I found that when trust is absent from a multi-agency initiative, its operations tend to be symbolic and inefficient.

    What are the obstacles to joint action?

    The potential obstacles to joint action may stem from lack of commitment, power play among actors, poor coordination and weak leadership.

    A combination of these factors will lead to ineffective communication, distrust, and even conflicts.

    Another critical factor is political interference. According to a 2023 survey, political elites have misused state power and resources. This has fostered a culture of corruption in public life.

    Another related obstacle is under-funding of anti-corruption agencies, the judiciary and other oversight institutions. This has a bearing on staff retention, and effective operations of the commission and other public institutions. Under these circumstances, it is no surprise that some institutions have been inhabited by individuals with questionable integrity.

    This suggests that some national anti-corruption institutions are ill-positioned to spearhead joint actions to tackle corruption.

    What are the chances of success for the new multi-agency approach?

    The Kenyan judiciary requires more than just a multi-agency strategy to combat corruption within its ranks. It has been a core member of the Kenya Leadership and Integrity Forum for years, but has yet to do some of the things that were required. The proposed court integrity committees do not differ much from the court performance committees outlined in the programme.

    The judiciary has been a partner in other multi-agency arrangements too. But the courts continue to be hotspots for corruption.



    Read more:
    Hotbed of corruption: Kenya’s elite have captured the state – unrest is inevitable

    What would success look like?

    Judicial corruption cannot be addressed in isolation. It reflects the overall state of corruption in the country. Effective solutions must involve reforms tailored to the sector, supported by genuine political will.



    Read more:
    The art of bribery: a closeup look at how traffic officers operate on Kenya’s roads

    The chief justice’s public acknowledgement of corruption within her own courts is a positive step. But she must take more radical actions. These include prosecuting and removing high court judges and other officials, establishing a system to compensate victims of court corruption, and actively engaging civil society groups.

    Gedion Onyango receives funding from UKRI’s CPAID project. He is also a senior research associate at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

    – ref. Kenya’s courts are corruption hotspots – radical actions the chief justice must take – https://theconversation.com/kenyas-courts-are-corruption-hotspots-radical-actions-the-chief-justice-must-take-253753

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Check Point Recognized for #1 AI-Powered Cyber Security Platform by Miercom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif., April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a pioneer and global leader of cyber security solutions, today announced that its Infinity Platform has been named the top-ranked AI-powered cyber security platform in the 2025 Miercom Assessment. The report validates Check Point’s leadership across critical security categories, with the Infinity Platform outperforming all competitors in security efficacy, Zero Trust implementation, and ease of use — setting a new industry benchmark for AI-powered cyber defense across hybrid networks, endpoints, and the cloud.

    “We are thrilled to be recognized by Miercom as the #1 AI-powered cyber security platform,” said Nataly Kremer, Chief Product Officer at Check Point Software. “As Enterprises deal with complexity, having a tightly integrated, AI-powered platform with unified management serves as the easy button. We believe the hybrid mesh architecture with the Infinity platform, will help organizations globally stay ahead of the most sophisticated threats.”

    As cyber threats evolve in speed and sophistication, organizations must defend an ever-expanding attack surface — spanning cloud, endpoints, data centers, and everywhere in between. The 2025 Check Point Security Report revealed a 45% surge in cyber-attacks, underscoring the urgency of modernizing cyber defenses. Today, effective security requires more than point solutions — it demands a unified, AI-driven platform built for hybrid mesh environments, capable of delivering real-time protection, Zero Trust enforcement, and seamless visibility across distributed networks.

    Miercom’s comprehensive assessment evaluated leading cyber security platforms across ten critical domains — including AI-powered threat analysis, Zero Trust enforcement, SASE capabilities, email security, and mobile threat defense.

    “The Check Point Infinity platform demonstrated superior security efficacy, consistently outperforming its peers in the test category of comprehensive threat prevention and response, as well as excelling in the AI-powered testing scenarios,” said Rob Smithers, CEO at Miercom. Its AI-driven architecture, hybrid mesh deployment model, and unified security operations prove that Check Point is setting the pace for next-generation cyber security.”

    Key Findings from the Miercom 2025 Assessment:

    • Security Efficacy: Check Point Infinity demonstrated superior security efficacy, outperforming competitors in comprehensive threat prevention and response, excelling in the AI-driven testing scenarios.
    • Admin and User Experience: The platform’s straightforward user interface provides effortless management and precise decision-making for administrators, enhancing the overall ease of use.
    • Zero Trust Implementation: Check Point surpassed competitors in executing common Zero Trust implementation tasks, making it well suited for securing modern IT environments against persistent and evolving threats.

    This recognition follows Check Point’s success in Miercom’s 2025 Enterprise and Hybrid Mesh Firewall Security Report which found that Check Point offers the best protection against the latest generation of cyberattacks, with a block rate of 99.9% on new malware.

    Learn more or read the full report here.

    Follow Check Point via:
    X (Formerly known as Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/checkpointsw
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/checkpointsoftware
    Blog: https://blog.checkpoint.com
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPGlobal
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/check-point-software-technologies

    About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. 
    Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (www.checkpoint.com) is a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider protecting over 100,000 organizations worldwide. Check Point leverages the power of AI everywhere to enhance cyber security efficiency and accuracy through its Infinity Platform, with industry-leading catch rates enabling proactive threat anticipation and smarter, faster response times. The comprehensive platform includes cloud-delivered technologies consisting of Check Point Harmony to secure the workspace, Check Point CloudGuard to secure the cloud, Check Point Quantum to secure the network, and Check Point Infinity Platform Services for collaborative security operations and services.

    Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements related to our expectations regarding future growth, the expansion of Check Point’s industry leadership, the enhancement of shareholder value and the delivery of an industry-leading cyber security platform to customers worldwide. Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results or events in the future are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2024. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Check Point as of the date hereof, and Check Point disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS “Design You Can Feel” Exhibition Opens at Milan Design Week 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced the opening of its all-new “Design You Can Feel” exhibition at Milan Design Week. The show explores the themes of materiality, craftsmanship, and artificial intelligence (AI) to explain the design thinking behind ASUS products, including the latest ASUS Zenbook laptops.

    The event also features playful interactive exhibits that explore the latest ASUS products and the design stories behind them as well as a spectacular immersive installation by Studio INI, the experimental design and research studio founded by Nassia Inglessis.

    Taking place at Galleria Meravigli, a historic 1920s gallery in the heart of Milan, the exhibition will run from April 8 to 13. It is open to the public from 10:00AM to 6:00PM each day and is free to attend.

    An interactive sensory experience: “Willful Wonder”, a bespoke installation by Studio INI

    The themes of the Design You Can Feel exhibition will be encapsulated by a specially commissioned installation by Studio INI. Housed beneath the curved glass ceiling of Galleria Meravigli, the installation dynamically responds as visitors walk through it, their presence activating wing-like, semi-transparent panels that open and close behind them.

    The wings, composed of an aluminum honeycomb with elements made from the ASUS proprietary material Ceraluminum™, engage the senses by reflecting and absorbing light, inviting visitors to interact with the structure as they pass through it. The entire installation mirrors Zenbook’s slim silhouette by sculpting lightness and mimicking nature’s sensitive triggering mechanisms, creating a playful interplay of revealing and concealing movements.

    “At Studio INI, we seek to create what we call an embodied intelligence in our designs – we create a seamless connection between built architecture and the human element,” said Studio INI founder Nassia Inglessis.

    “As people walk through the installation and touch the Ceraluminum™, each touch will be recorded by the changes in its conductivity. So, people will be able to see a spatial representation of their behavior in the installation.”

    Building on Studio INI’s expertise in creating experiential public artworks, the installation draws inspiration from the ASUS Zenbook laptop, known for its innovative, lightweight design and Ceraluminum™ material, to create a kinetic, biomimetic sculpture. The installation measures changes in conductivity caused by visitors’ touch to create an AI-generated model representing their real-world interactions with the piece.

    In “Willful Wonder,” humans and technology unite in an interactive journey. This fusion of technology and aesthetics mirrors the ASUS commitment to innovation, cutting-edge engineering, nature-inspired materials, and meticulous design, resulting in high-performing, practical, dynamic, lightweight, and beautiful devices.

    ASUS Design Thinking: The Inside Story

    The Design You Can Feel exhibition will showcase the latest ASUS products and the design stories behind them through playful interactive exhibits. It will encourage users to feel the lightness, duality, slimness, and sleekness of the ASUS Zenbook, the fragrance of the Adol, the outdoor functionality of ProArt, and the unique style of ROG.

    This includes the “Design Thinking: The Inside Story” exhibit, which delves into the heart of ASUS design philosophy and allows visitors to experience the company’s latest innovations firsthand. At ASUS, design thinking is more than just a process; it’s ingrained in the company’s DNA. ASUS embraces a human-centered approach that prioritizes user needs and experiences. The designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also address real challenges, ensuring that innovation is intuitive, practical, and meaningful. By focusing on user-driven design, ASUS creates solutions that are both impactful and practical.

    Through hands-on demonstrations, visitors will discover how ASUS seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality, focusing on enhancing everyday life. From ultra-lightweight designs crafted with revolutionary materials to versatile devices that adapt to various workflows, and even explorations into new sensory experiences, this event will showcase how the ASUS commitment to excellence and user-driven innovation shapes the future of technology.

    Next, visitors can step into the world of “Ceraluminum™: A Tribute to Nature’s Wonder” and explore the revolutionary material that’s redefining laptop design. This showcases the unique qualities of Ceraluminum™, a patented ASUS material born from modern alchemy, blending exceptional durability with exquisite craftsmanship. Visitors can discover how plasma discharges transform aluminum into a ceramic-like layer, offering unparalleled wear, scratch, and shock resistance, all while maintaining a smudge-free elegance.

    An additional attraction will be the debut of the Ceraluminum™ Signature Edition, a collection of Zenbook laptops that pay homage to Earth’s breathtaking landscapes. Each of the four distinctive finishes—Obsidian Black, Pamukkale White, Terra Mocha, and Luminous Blue—tells a story of nature’s splendor, from volcanic terrains and cascading terraces to desert dunes and bioluminescent shores. Inspired by nature and designed for a sustainable future, Ceraluminum™ eliminates traditional chemical manufacturing processes, making it 100% recyclable and environmentally responsible. This is a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and the enduring beauty of our planet.

    “At our core, we believe in the power of sensory experiences to forge meaningful connections with design. It’s all about crafting products that allow each user to feel and make good use of our innovations,” said H.W. Wei, Associate VP of ASUS Design Center.

    ASUS Zenbook Ceraluminum™ Signature Edition

    ASUS will unveil a stunning limited-edition series, a tribute to the iconic Zenbook line and the revolutionary Ceraluminum™ material, a patented technology that merges the lightness of metal with the resilience of ceramics.

    The innovative Ceraluminum™, created via ceramization of aluminum, boasts a fracture toughness three times higher than anodized aluminum while remaining remarkably lightweight. This material revolution, showcased in the Zenbook Signature Editions, underscores the dedication ASUS has to both innovation and environmental responsibility. It elevates the celebrated Zenbook line’s legacy of cutting-edge engineering and sleek design into a tangible celebration of Ceraluminum and nature’s splendor.

    Each Signature Edition Zenbook showcases the artistry of Ceraluminum, featuring a unique finish inspired by the dynamic landscapes that shape our world. This collection transforms the Zenbook into a celebration of both premium technology and the organic beauty of nature, highlighting the sensory-rich experience that Ceraluminum enables. The laptops will be displayed alongside corresponding sleeves and packaging, providing a complete visual and tactile journey.

    The ASUS Zenbook Ceraluminum Signature Edition collection is a celebration of the Zenbook and the unique beauty of Ceraluminum, inspired by Earth’s most breathtaking landscapes, each representing the raw power and beauty that shape our world. Each finish is a reminder of the ASUS commitment – not just to design, but to a philosophy – to create tools that are as enduring as the landscapes that inspire them.

    Ceraluminum™ Signature Edition release date: To be announced. Please see here to learn more about ASUS Ceraluminum™: The making of Ceraluminum™

    Design You Can Feel

    Galleria Meravigli
    Via Gaetano Negri 6
    20123 Milano
    Italy
    April 8 to 13, 2025
    10:00AM to 6:00PM daily
    https://asus.click/mdw25_pr

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    More on ASUS at Milan Design Week: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/content/zenbook/
    About ASUS Zenbook Ceraluminum™ Signature Edition: https://youtu.be/OoOHFiBDu9g
    About the Making of Ceraluminum™: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1T3HgeX8qU
    ASUS Zenbook Design Why and How: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cypFEe7-Fg
    ASUS Zenbook: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/zenbook/
    ASUS ProArt: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/proart/
    ASUS Vivobook: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/vivobook/
    ASUS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asus/posts/
    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com
    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/
    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca
    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube
    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4da4f22-6ab8-47b5-8d8d-4818e6665a45

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Appoints New Country Manager in Japan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI and TOKYO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the leader in data security, today announced Toshi Namiki’s appointment as Country Manager for Japan.

    With more than 25 years of experience in software and cybersecurity, Toshi has led international high-value sales for Deep Instinct, Forescout Technologies, and global leaders Palo Alto Networks and VeriSign. He brought cutting-edge technology to Japan by working with regional partners, helping companies adopt state-of-the-art solutions, and driving innovation throughout the Japanese tech landscape.

    “I’m thrilled to join Varonis to help our customers stop breaches and protect what matters most — their data,” Toshi said. “Japan’s top industries, including manufacturing, technology, and automotive, possess vast amounts of data and must secure this information in the AI era. Varonis helps organizations ensure security before, during, and after AI deployment.”

    “With data generated at an unprecedented scale across many environments, complying with governance standards and protecting data is crucial,” said Scott Leach, Varonis Vice President of APAC. “Toshi’s proven ability to implement advanced solutions will be instrumental as we increase our local presence.”

    Varonis continues to expand its operations in the APAC region to help customers comply with local regulatory frameworks, including the Act on the Protection of Personal Information. This law requires companies to take security steps to protect personal data from unauthorized access, loss, or damage.

    Additional Resources

    About Varonis
    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com 

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Unveils Signature Edition Zenbook Series at “Design You Can Feel” Exhibition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced the global unveiling of a signature edition series of its iconic Zenbook at the “Design You Can Feel” exhibition in Milan. This exclusive release transforms the celebrated Zenbook into a narrative of nature’s splendor through four distinct, nature-inspired finishes, each a tribute to Earth’s dynamic landscapes. At the same time, it reinforces the Zenbook series’ legacy of combining high-performance technology with refined, functional aesthetics.

    Signature Edition Series: A tribute to nature’s elements

    In this unique series, each Zenbook is transformed into a narrative piece that echoes the beauty and complexity of nature. Crafted using the revolutionary ASUS Ceraluminum™ technology—a breakthrough material that merges the strength of aluminum with the durability of ceramic—each signature edition finish is created with a sustainable, one-of-a-kind manufacturing process:

    • Geldingadalir, Iceland – Obsidian Black: Inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, this finish masterfully balances matte and glossy textures. Precision laser sintering recreates the natural flow of cooling lava, evoking both the raw energy and the serene balance of fire-forged terrain.
    • Pamukkale, Turkey – Pamukkale White: Drawing on the tranquil beauty of cascading terraces and mineral-rich waters, this variant features dual golden sheens. Advanced CNC diamond cut precision milling refines every curve and shimmer, capturing the interplay between flowing water and solid stone.
    • Wadi Rum, Jordan – Terra Mocha: Reflecting the rugged elegance of sandstone cliffs and shifting dunes, this edition incorporates an intricate, rosette-like pattern achieved solely through the ASUS proprietary ceramization technology. The tactile finish celebrates the organic dialogue between nature’s unpredictability and the precision of modern engineering.
    • Vaadhoo Island, Maldives – Luminous Blue: Capturing the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent ocean shores, this finish uses calibrated laser-induced oxidation to create a dynamic interplay of light and texture. Its soft, natural luminescence evokes the enchanting magic of starlit waves.

    Each signature edition device is more than just a color variation—it is a testament to the commitment ASUS has to sustainability and innovative design, with every piece bearing a unique pattern that mirrors nature’s singular beauty. From the laptops to the sleeves and packaging, every part is created with eco-friendliness in mind. The sleeve bag, crafted from Kvadrat Febrik’s knitted upholstery textile Arda, embodies this philosophy by drawing inspiration from the intricate forms and textures of the natural world. Made primarily from wool and produced using an innovative technique that significantly reduces water consumption, Arda reflects a dedication to minimizing its impact on the natural environments that it mimics. Each finish is a reminder of the ASUS commitment—not just to design, but to a philosophy—to create tools that are as enduring as the landscapes that inspire them. 

    The release date of the ASUS Zenbook Ceraluminum™ Signature Edition will be announced at a later time.

    Ceraluminum™: Inspired by nature, engineered for a sustainable future

    At the heart of these signature editions lies the patented ASUS Ceraluminum technology—a material revolution that redefines durability and sustainability. This innovative material is used to build the Zenbook series laptops including the latest Zenbook A14. Ceraluminum is an innovative material that combines the lightness of aluminum with the resilience of ceramic. The process involves ceramizing aluminum, which results in a material that is lighter and has a fracture toughness 10 times higher than traditional ceramic. This process results in:

    • Unrivaled Durability: The ceramic-like finish delivers exceptional scratch resistance and long-lasting resilience.
    • Unique Aesthetics: Every device features its own distinctive pattern, celebrating nature’s inherent diversity.
    • Sustainable Manufacturing: By eliminating traditional chemical processes, Ceraluminum is 100% recyclable and environmentally responsible.

    This breakthrough not only enhances the Zenbook series’ premium look but also reinforces the commitment ASUS has to eco-friendly innovation.

    Zenbook: Where art meets advanced engineering

    Engineered to empower modern professionals, the Zenbook epitomizes the perfect blend of form and function. Built with the robust internals of the Zenbook S14 Copilot+ PC, it delivers tangible benefits designed to enhance everyday productivity:

    • Ultra-Thin, High-Performance Design: Crafted with state-of-the-art CNC milling, its ultra-slim chassis not only captivates with its aesthetic appeal but also provides exceptional portability. The integrated vapor chamber cooling system ensures peak performance, even during demanding tasks.
    • Intuitive, User-Centric Experience: Featuring a dedicated Windows Copilot key and an expansive 16:10 seamless touchpad with smart gesture support, the Zenbook streamlines user interaction and multitasking. The vibrant 3K 120Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display offers lifelike visuals, while the Harman Kardon-certified audio system delivers immersive, cinematic sound.
    • Next-Generation Power: Powered by the latest AI-enabled Intel® Core™ Ultra processor (Series 2) paired with Intel Arc™ graphics, along with up to 32GB of fast memory and a 1TB PCIe® 4.0 SSD, the Zenbook ensures swift performance, reliable multitasking, and enhanced efficiency—all in an ultra-quiet, cool operating environment.

    The result is a laptop that not only elevates productivity but also transforms everyday computing into an engaging, sensory-rich experience.

    An immersive journey into design and innovation

    The Design You Can Feel exhibition in Milan invites visitors to embark on an immersive journey where technology, craftsmanship, and nature converge. Alongside interactive installations by Studio INI, attendees can experience firsthand the tactile beauty of Ceraluminum and the refined elegance of the signature edition Zenbook series. This dynamic showcase reinforces the commitment ASUS has to crafting products that resonate emotionally, perform flawlessly, and set new standards for sustainable innovation.

    For more information about the Design You Can Feel exhibition during Milan Design Week 2025, please see: https://asus.click/mdw25_pr   

    For more information on the signature edition Zenbook series and to stay updated on future availability, please follow ASUS on social media and visit https://www.asus.com/

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    More on ASUS at Milan Design Week: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/content/zenbook/
    About ASUS Zenbook Ceraluminum™ Signature Edition: https://youtu.be/OoOHFiBDu9g
    About the Making of Ceraluminum™: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1T3HgeX8qU
    ASUS Zenbook Design Why and How: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cypFEe7-Fg
    ASUS Zenbook: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/zenbook/
    ASUS ProArt: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/proart/
    ASUS Vivobook: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/vivobook/
    ASUS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asus/posts/
    ASUS Zenbook A14: https://www.asus.com/ca-en/laptops/for-home/zenbook/asus-zenbook-a14-ux3407/
    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com
    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/
    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca
    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube
    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a2193bea-9d44-4772-81f5-b7f739717190

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SuRo Capital Corp. First Quarter 2025 Preliminary Investment Portfolio Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SuRo Capital Portfolio Investment CoreWeave Completes Largest Tech IPO Since 2021

    SuRo Capital Portfolio Investment OpenAI Closes Largest Venture Raise with $300 Billion Valuation

    Net Asset Value Anticipated to be $6.50 to $7.00 Per Share

    NEW YORK, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SuRo Capital Corp. (“SuRo Capital”, the “Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our”) (Nasdaq: SSSS) today provided the following preliminary update on its investment portfolio for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    “The past few months have been marked by some of the most volatile market conditions since the onset of COVID-19, culminating in the Nasdaq’s worst quarter since 2022, and its worst week since 2020. This turbulence has persisted and intensified into the second quarter. Despite these headwinds, we saw significant positive momentum across our portfolio: CoreWeave’s IPO was the largest technology IPO since 2021 and OpenAI closed a $40.0 billion financing at a $300.0 billion post-money valuation, establishing a new record for the largest private capital raise by a technology company,” said Mark Klein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SuRo Capital.

    “Beyond these high-profile capital raises, we remain committed to backing some of the world’s most innovative and sought-after private companies before they become publicly traded. We completed a new $5.0 million investment in Plaid (through a wholly owned SPV), a market-leading fintech platform that enables secure, seamless connectivity between financial applications and consumers—estimated to reach 1 in every 2 adults in the U.S. We also made a $1.0 million follow-on investment in WHOOP, a wearables technology company that tracks sleep, strain, recovery, stress, and health biometrics. Finally, Colombier Acquisition Corp. II announced a proposed merger with GrabAGun, further building on SuRo Capital’s SPAC sponsor strategy successes. While market conditions remain challenging, we are encouraged by the strong progress across our portfolio,” Mr. Klein concluded.

    As previously reported, SuRo Capital’s net assets totaled approximately $157.6 million, or $6.68 per share, at December 31, 2024, and approximately $181.7 million, or $7.17 per share at March 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, SuRo Capital’s net asset value is estimated to be between $6.50 to $7.00 per share.

    Investment Portfolio Update

    As of March 31, 2025, SuRo Capital held positions in 37 portfolio companies – 32 privately held and 5 publicly held, some of which may be subject to certain restrictions and/or lock-up provisions.

    During the three months ended March 31, 2025, SuRo Capital made the following follow-on investments:

    Portfolio Company Investment Transaction Date Amount(1)
    Orchard Technologies, Inc. Series 1 Senior Preferred 1/31/2025 $0.2 million
    Orchard Technologies, Inc. Simple Agreement for Future Equity 1/31/2025 $0.1 million
    Whoop, Inc. Simple Agreement for Future Equity 2/6/2025 $1.0 million

    ___________________
    (1)   Amount invested does not include any capitalized costs, if applicable.

    Subsequent to quarter-end through April 7, 2025, SuRo Capital made the following investments:

    Portfolio Company Investment Transaction Date Amount(1)
    Plaid Inc.(2) Class A Common Shares 4/4/2025 $5.0 million

    ___________________
    (1)   Amount invested does not include any capitalized costs, origination fees, or prepaid expenses, if applicable.
    (2)   SuRo Capital’s investment in the common shares of Plaid Inc. was made through 1789 Capital Nirvana II LP, an SPV in which SuRo Capital Corp. is the Sole Limited Partner. SuRo Capital paid a 7% origination fee at the time of investment.

    SuRo Capital’s liquid assets were approximately $18.1 million as of March 31, 2025, consisting of cash and securities of publicly traded portfolio companies not subject to certain restrictions at quarter-end.

    As of March 31, 2025, there were 23,551,859 shares of the Company’s common stock outstanding.

    Convertible Note Purchase Agreement

    On August 6, 2024, SuRo Capital entered into a Note Purchase Agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”), by and between the Company and the purchaser identified therein (the “Purchaser”), pursuant to which we may issue up to a maximum of $75.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.50% Convertible Notes due 2029 (the “Convertible Notes”). Pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, on August 14, 2024 we issued and sold, and the Purchaser purchased, $25.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes (the “Initial Notes”). Under the Note Purchase Agreement, upon mutual agreement between the Company and the Purchaser, we may issue additional Convertible Notes for sale in subsequent offerings to the Purchaser (the “Additional Notes”), or issue additional notes with modified pricing terms (the “New Notes”), in the aggregate for both the Additional Notes and the New Notes, up to a maximum of $50.0 million in one or more private offerings.

    Interest on the Convertible Notes will be paid quarterly in arrears on March 30, June 30, September 30, and December 30, at a rate of 6.50% per year. The Convertible Notes will mature on August 14, 2029, and may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time or from time to time at our option on or after August 6, 2027 upon the fulfillment of certain conditions. The Convertible Notes will be convertible into shares of our common stock at the Purchaser’s sole discretion at an initial conversion rate of 129.0323 shares of our common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the Convertible Notes, subject to adjustments and limitations as provided in the Note Purchase Agreement. The net proceeds from the offering of the Convertible Notes will be used to repay outstanding indebtedness, make investments in accordance with our investment objective and investment strategy, and for other general corporate purposes. The Note Purchase Agreement includes customary representations, warranties, and covenants by the Company.

    On October 9, 2024, pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, we issued and sold, and the Purchaser purchased, $5.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Additional Notes. Additionally, pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement, on January 16, 2025 we issued and sold, and the Purchaser purchased, $5.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Additional Notes. The Additional Notes are treated as a single series with the Initial Notes and have the same terms as the Initial Notes. The Additional Notes are fungible and rank equally with the Initial Notes. Upon issuance of the Additional Notes on January 16, 2025 and as of March 31, 2025, the outstanding aggregate principal amount of our Convertible Notes became $35.0 million.

    Note Repurchase Program

    On August 6, 2024, SuRo Capital’s Board of Directors approved a discretionary note repurchase program (the “Note Repurchase Program”) which allows the Company to repurchase up to $35.0 million of our 6.00% Notes due 2026, exclusive of any applicable fees, through open market purchases, including block purchases, in such manner as will comply with the provisions of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).

    During the quarter ended March 31, 2025, we repurchased an additional 199,990 of the 6.00% Notes due 2026 under the Note Repurchase Program. As of March 31, 2025, we had repurchased 1,413,294 of the 6.00% Notes due 2026 under the Note Repurchase Program. As of March 31, 2025, $35.3 million in aggregate principal dollar amount of the 6.00% Notes due 2026 have been repurchased, resulting in the total use of the authorized available funds.

    Share Repurchase Program

    Under the Share Repurchase Program, the Company may repurchase its outstanding common stock in the open market, provided it complies with the prohibitions under its insider trading policies and procedures and the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act and the Exchange Act.

    Since inception of the Share Repurchase Program in August 2017, SuRo Capital has repurchased over 6.0 million shares of its common stock for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $39.3 million. This does not include repurchases under various tender offers during this time period. As of March 31, 2025, the dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased by the Company under the Share Repurchase Program is approximately $25.0 million. The Share Repurchase Program is authorized through October 31, 2025.

    Preliminary Estimates and Guidance

    The preliminary financial estimates provided herein are unaudited and have been prepared by, and are the responsibility of, the management of SuRo Capital. Neither our independent registered public accounting firm, nor any other independent accountants, have audited, reviewed, compiled, or performed any procedures with respect to the preliminary financial data included herein. Actual results may differ materially.

    The Company expects to announce its first quarter ended March 31, 2025 results in May 2025.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements included herein, including statements regarding SuRo Capital’s beliefs, expectations, intentions, or strategies for the future, may constitute “forward-looking statements”. SuRo Capital cautions you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these statements. All forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the impact of any market volatility that may be detrimental to our business, our portfolio companies, our industry, and the global economy, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the plans, intentions, and expectations reflected in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Risk factors, cautionary statements, and other conditions which could cause SuRo Capital’s actual results to differ from management’s current expectations are contained in SuRo Capital’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. SuRo Capital undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this press release.

    About SuRo Capital Corp.

    SuRo Capital Corp. (Nasdaq: SSSS) is a publicly traded investment fund that seeks to invest in high-growth, venture-backed private companies. The fund seeks to create a portfolio of high-growth emerging private companies via a repeatable and disciplined investment approach, as well as to provide investors with access to such companies through its publicly traded common stock. Since inception, SuRo Capital has served as the public’s gateway to venture capital, offering unique access to some of the world’s most innovative and sought-after private companies before they become publicly traded. SuRo Capital’s diverse portfolio encompasses high-growth sectors including AI infrastructure, emerging consumer brands, and cutting-edge software solutions for both consumer and enterprise markets, among others. SuRo Capital is headquartered in New York, NY and has offices in San Francisco, CA. Connect with the company on X, LinkedIn, and at www.surocap.com.

    Contact
    SuRo Capital Corp.
    (212) 931-6331
    IR@surocap.com

    Media Contact
    Deborah Kostroun
    Zito Partners
    SuRoCapitalPR@zitopartners.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Altus Group Releases its 2024 Sustainability Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (“Altus” or “the Company”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate (“CRE”), today released its annual Sustainability Report, which highlights the Company’s sustainability initiatives and progress in 2024.

    “As we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year, sustainability continues to guide who we are and how we operate,” said Camilla Bartosiewicz, Chief Communications Officer at Altus Group. “This report brings our values to life – highlighting the tangible progress we made in 2024 in reducing emissions, investing in our people, and upholding strong corporate governance. These efforts are not only core to our identity as a responsible corporate citizen and employer of choice, but are critical to managing enterprise risk and creating long-term value for all stakeholders.”

    Key 2024 highlights:

    • Climate action: reduced Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 5% in 2024, benefitting from strategic right-sizing of office space, which resulted in a 12% reduction in office footprint.
    • Talent management: expanded people programs to foster career advancement and employee success, earning external recognition for an inclusive, high-trust and high-performance culture.
    • Cybersecurity and data responsibility: continued enhancement of cybersecurity and data standards to uphold data responsibility and maintain stakeholder trust.
    • Governance: welcomed new board members, adding diverse perspectives and skills that enhance board effectiveness.

    To download Altus Group’s 2024 Sustainability Report please visit https://www.altusgroup.com/about-us/sustainability/. More information on Altus Group’s corporate governance program is also detailed in the Company’s 2024 Management Information Circular dated March 26, 2025 which has been filed to SEDAR+ and is posted on Altus Group’s website under the Investors section.

    About Altus Group

    Altus Group is a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate. We deliver intelligence as a service to our global client base through a connected platform of industry-leading technology, advanced analytics, and advisory services. Trusted by the largest CRE leaders, our capabilities help commercial real estate investors, developers, lenders, and advisors manage risks and improve performance returns throughout the asset and fund lifecycle. Altus Group is a global company headquartered in Toronto with approximately 1,900 employees across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit altusgroup.com.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Elizabeth Lambe
    Director, Global Communications, Altus Group
    1 (416) 641-9787
    elizabeth.lambe@altusgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Audited results of INVL Technology of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The equity and the net asset value of INVL Technology amounted to EUR 51.43 million, which is 18.2% more than a year earlier. The per share value of its equity and NAV was EUR 4.2896 and grew 19%. 

    The company had a net profit last year of EUR 8.09 million.

    The annual information is published in the European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) in compliance with the requirements of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/815 of 17 December 2018 (xhtml file format is attached). This is the official format for the annual information that will be approved by the Ordinary General Shareholders‘ Meeting. The annual information (without the auditor‘s report) is additionally provided in pdf format as a copy of the published ESEF information.

    Additional information:

    INVL Technology, a company that invests in IT businesses, had an audited net profit of EUR 8.09 million in 2024, 56.5% more than in 2023 when the net profit was EUR 5.17 million.

    The company’s equity and net asset value were EUR 51.43 million at the end of December 2024, which is 18.2% more than a year earlier. The per share value of its equity and NAV was EUR 4.2896 and grew 19%.

    “INVL Technology’s portfolio companies working in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, supercomputing, and the development and deployment of information systems had good operating results. We are continuing work with potential investors on the process of selling the business,” says Kazimieras Tonkūnas, INVL Technology’s managing partner.

    In mid-March this year, the company announced that it had signed an agreement with the Zurich branch of M&A intermediation service provider Corum Group’s Luxembourg-based unit Corum Group International, to advise and serve as M&A intermediary on the sale of the company’s portfolio of businesses.

    Performance of INVL Technology’s business holdings

    In 2024, INVL Technology’s portfolio companies had aggregated revenues of EUR 66.23 million, which is 5.8 % more than in 2023. Their gross profit increased 9.7 % in the period of comparison to EUR 19.78 million, while their aggregated EBITDA grew 42.7 % to EUR 5.13 million.

    INVL Technology owns and manages the cybersecurity company NRD Cyber Security, the GovTech company NRD Companies, and the Baltic IT company Novian.

    The consolidated revenue of NRD Cyber Security, which also owns NRD Bangladesh, increased 37.6% in 2024 compared to 2023 to EUR 10.19 million. NRD Cyber Security’s gross profit grew 12.7% in the same period of comparison to EUR 4.50 million, while its EBITDA rose 6.9% during the year to EUR 1.22 million.

    NRD Companies had consolidated revenue of EUR 9.97 million last year, 9.3% less than in 2023. It had a gross profit of EUR 4.83 million in 2024, or 9.8% more than the previous year, while its group EBITDA decreased by 4.1% to EUR 1.30 million. Norway-based NRD Companies has the subsidiaries Norway Registers Development in Norway, with a branch in Lithuania, and NRD Systems and Etronika in Lithuania.

    Novian had consolidated revenues of EUR 38.90 million in 2024, 2.4% more than in 2023, while its gross profit of EUR 8.80 million was 14.4% larger than the year before. The Novian group’s EBITDA more than doubled last year to EUR 2.58 million. The group consists of Novian in Lithuania with the technology-area businesses Novian Technologies, Zissor in Norway, Novian Eesti in Estonia, Andmevara in Moldova, and Novian Rwanda (earlier Norway Registers Development Rwanda) in Rwanda, and the software services businesses Novian Systems and Novian Pro in Lithuania.

    INVL Technology, which is managed by INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltics, is a closed-end investment company which must exit its investments no later than mid-July 2026 and distribute the money to shareholders.

    The person authorized to provide additional information:
    Kazimieras Tonkūnas
    INVL Technology Managing Partner
    E-mail k.tonkunas@invltechnology.lt

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Presentation of INVL Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    INVL Technology announces a presentation that will be used for the meetings with investors.

    Additional information:

    INVL Technology, a company that invests in IT businesses, had an audited net profit of EUR 8.09 million in 2024, 56.5% more than in 2023 when the net profit was EUR 5.17 million.

    The company’s equity and net asset value were EUR 51.43 million at the end of December 2024, which is 18.2% more than a year earlier. The per share value of its equity and NAV was EUR 4.2896 and grew 19%.

    “INVL Technology’s portfolio companies working in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, supercomputing, and the development and deployment of information systems had good operating results. We are continuing work with potential investors on the process of selling the business,” says Kazimieras Tonkūnas, INVL Technology’s managing partner.

    In mid-March this year, the company announced that it had signed an agreement with the Zurich branch of M&A intermediation service provider Corum Group’s Luxembourg-based unit Corum Group International, to advise and serve as M&A intermediary on the sale of the company’s portfolio of businesses.

    Performance of INVL Technology’s business holdings

    In 2024, INVL Technology’s portfolio companies had aggregated revenues of EUR 66.23 million, which is 5.8 % more than in 2023. Their gross profit increased 9.7 % in the period of comparison to EUR 19.78 million, while their aggregated EBITDA grew 42.7 % to EUR 5.13 million.

    INVL Technology owns and manages the cybersecurity company NRD Cyber Security, the GovTech company NRD Companies, and the Baltic IT company Novian.

    The consolidated revenue of NRD Cyber Security, which also owns NRD Bangladesh, increased 37.6% in 2024 compared to 2023 to EUR 10.19 million. NRD Cyber Security’s gross profit grew 12.7% in the same period of comparison to EUR 4.50 million, while its EBITDA rose 6.9% during the year to EUR 1.22 million.

    NRD Companies had consolidated revenue of EUR 9.97 million last year, 9.3% less than in 2023. It had a gross profit of EUR 4.83 million in 2024, or 9.8% more than the previous year, while its group EBITDA decreased by 4.1% to EUR 1.30 million. Norway-based NRD Companies has the subsidiaries Norway Registers Development in Norway, with a branch in Lithuania, and NRD Systems and Etronika in Lithuania.

    Novian had consolidated revenues of EUR 38.90 million in 2024, 2.4% more than in 2023, while its gross profit of EUR 8.80 million was 14.4% larger than the year before. The Novian group’s EBITDA more than doubled last year to EUR 2.58 million. The group consists of Novian in Lithuania with the technology-area businesses Novian Technologies, Zissor in Norway, Novian Eesti in Estonia, Andmevara in Moldova, and Novian Rwanda (earlier Norway Registers Development Rwanda) in Rwanda, and the software services businesses Novian Systems and Novian Pro in Lithuania.

    INVL Technology, which is managed by INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltics, is a closed-end investment company which must exit its investments no later than mid-July 2026 and distribute the money to shareholders.

    The person authorized to provide additional information:
    Kazimieras Tonkūnas
    INVL Technology Managing Partner
    E-mail k.tonkunas@invltechnology.lt

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX $XPL Presale Selling Fast as XRP’s First AI-Powered DEX Fuels Investor Interest – Join $XPL Presale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XRP Ledger, A seismic shift is underway on the XRP Ledger as XploraDEX, the first AI-powered decentralized exchange (DEX) built natively on XRPL, ignites a wave of investor enthusiasm. In what’s being described as one of the most anticipated presales of 2025, the platform’s native token $XPL Presale is selling out rapidly, capturing the attention of retail investors and whales alike.

    XploraDEX is not just another decentralized exchange, it represents a complete evolution in how trading can function on-chain. By merging advanced artificial intelligence with XRPL’s lightning-fast and cost-effective infrastructure, XploraDEXolatform is introducing a smarter, more predictive trading experience to the DeFi space. And now, with the $XPL token presale in full swing, early backers are racing to claim their allocation before the next price tier is activated.

    PARTICIPATE IN $XPL PRESALE

    The appeal of XploraDEX lies in its cutting-edge AI engine that allows users to automate trading strategies, receive real-time market predictions, and manage risk dynamically based on live market conditions. From intelligent portfolio rebalancing to smart liquidity routing, XploraDEX gives users the ability to operate with a level of precision previously only accessible to hedge funds.

    As the XRP ecosystem evolves, it has long needed a DEX that delivers more than just basic token swaps. XploraDEX answers that call with AI-native features and a roadmap that includes auto-trade execution, sentiment-based signal alerts, and personalized strategy modeling—all powered by $XPL.

    The utility of $XPL goes far beyond standard DeFi tokens. It provides access to AI trading tools, unlocks staking and yield farming modules, grants platform-wide fee discounts, and confers voting rights within the platform’s decentralized governance model. This positions $XPL not just as a transactional token, but as the lifeblood of an intelligent financial ecosystem.

    JOIN $XPL PRESALE

    The $XPL Presale has already crossed major allocation milestones, with over half of the soft cap sold in record time. The XploraDEX community is growing rapidly, with Telegram and Twitter buzzing with activity. Whale wallets are also joining in, with several high-value purchases confirming that sophisticated investors are backing the platform early.

    $XPL PreSale Information

    Token Name: XploraDEX

    Total Supply: 500,000,000

    Presale Allocation: First Come, First Serve!

    DEX Listing: 25% Higher

    Liquidity Pools: Launching immediately after TGE!

    The XPL Token Presale is already attracting major interest, early investors will gain first-mover advantages!

    Buy $XPL Tokens Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

    The $XPL presale is more than a presale—it’s the beginning of a smarter trading era on XRPL. With institutional-level technology now available to individual traders, XploraDEX is poised to become one of the most important DeFi pillars in the XRP ecosystem.

    Investors looking to front-run the future of AI-integrated DeFi on XRPL should act now. The $XPL presale is open—but not for long.

    Join the $XPL Presale Today: https://xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d5ad8c5-dd3b-47ff-a87e-bb5feb5a95a0

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Partners with Schoolscape to Provide Innovative Education Solutions

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics continues its long-standing partnership with Schoolscape, a leading organisation dedicated to advancing education by connecting schools with innovative solutions and top-rated suppliers. As one of Schoolscape’s key partners, Samsung is actively contributing to the digital transformation of education by offering state-of-the-art products designed to enhance learning and teaching experiences.
     

     
    At recent Schoolscape exhibitions held in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, Samsung showcased its wide range of B2B education solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of educators and students in the digital age. Among the featured products were the Samsung WAD Interactive Display, Smart Signage, Monitors, Tablets, and the latest Galaxy S25 smartphones. These products are designed to facilitate interactive and engaging learning environments, allowing educators to deliver dynamic lesson plans while keeping students actively involved.
     
    As the world increasingly embraces digital learning, the integration of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) has made it essential for students to manage digital tools and navigate digital learning environments. Samsung’s education solutions provide schools with the necessary tools to foster these skills, helping students prepare for a future driven by technology. Samsung’s interactive displays, such as the Samsung WAD, are particularly critical for creating a connected classroom ecosystem, enabling seamless collaboration and enriching educational outcomes by linking ideas, concepts, and materials more effectively.
     
    Vincent Mahlangu, responsible for B2B Sales at Samsung Electronics, delivered an address at the Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban exhibitions, where he emphasised the impact of Samsung’s hardware and software solutions in the classroom to the school principals in attendance. He highlighted how products like the Samsung tablets, equipped with Samsung’s Knox security platform, offer an added layer of protection for both students and schools. “In the event a tablet is lost, Knox ensures all information is protected and traceable, providing peace of mind to both the students and the school,” Mahlangu explained. Samsung’s focus on security complements its overall mission to provide schools with reliable, durable, and secure products that elevate the teaching and learning experience.
     

     
    Samsung is committed to providing products that not only meet the immediate needs of the classroom but also support long-term learning goals. With Samsung’s range of digital solutions, schools can easily build an immersive, future-ready learning environment that keeps pace with the latest innovations in education technology.
     
    For more information on Samsung’s B2B education solutions and to explore the full range of products available, visit Samsung’s website.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AI-Powered Health Tracker on your Finger anium

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung recently launched the Galaxy Ring, a ground-breaking AI-powered healthcare device designed to seamlessly integrate into your daily routine and elevate your overall wellbeing[1]. As World Health Day approaches on 7 April 2025, the Galaxy Ring emerges as the perfect solution for individuals seeking to monitor and enhance both their physical and mental health1. Now available in South Africa, this wearable device blends state-of-the-art technology with sleek, stylish design for an all-encompassing wellness experience.
     
    Enhance Your Health and Wellbeing with the Galaxy Ring
    The Galaxy Ring is more than just a stylish accessory; it’s a personalised wellness tool that offers a wealth of health benefits. By continuously tracking your physical and mental health, it helps you take proactive steps toward a balanced lifestyle1. Whether it’s monitoring your heart rate, skin temperature, or stress levels, the Galaxy Ring provides real-time data that empowers you to make healthier choices every day.
     
    Samsung has always been exceptional in creating products that focus on the user experience, and the Galaxy Ring continues this legacy. From improving sleep quality to enhancing mental wellbeing, this device is designed to help you live a healthier, more informed life.
     
    Design and Comfort – A Device You’ll Want to Wear Every Day
    Designed with both functionality and style in mind, the Galaxy Ring features a sleek, curved titanium[2] body that’s as lightweight as it is durable. Available in silver, gold, and black, the ring can be worn on any finger, ensuring comfort without sacrificing aesthetics. Additionally, LED lights on the ring indicate its charging status, so you’ll always know when it’s time to power up.
     
    Advanced Technology for Precise Health Monitoring
    Packed with advanced sensors, the Galaxy Ring provides reliable health insights[3]. These include an Optical Bio-signal Sensor, Skin Temperature Sensor, and Accelerometer. These sensors track critical health metrics, such as heart rate, body temperature, and physical activity, giving you a comprehensive overview of your health in real-time. By continuously monitoring both your physical and mental wellbeing, the Galaxy Ring helps you stay ahead of potential health concerns and empowers you to make data-driven decisions that improve your overall quality of life.
     

     
    Long-lasting Battery and Seamless Experience
    With a seven-day battery life on a single charge[4], the Galaxy Ring ensures that you spend more time tracking and less time charging. It also features automatic or manual pairing with your smartphone, allowing you to control calls with simple gestures—such as answering or ending calls directly from the device.
     
    Size Matters – Find the Perfect Fit
    To ensure comfort and the perfect fit, a Sizing Kit will be shipped directly to your home. Try on a sample ring for more than a day to make sure it’s just right before confirming your order.
     
    Sleep Better with Personalised Insights
    Sleep plays a crucial role in your overall health, and the Galaxy Ring provides essential tools to improve your sleep quality. With the Sleep Time Guidance feature, it offers personalised suggestions, including the optimal bedtime tailored to your unique sleep patterns. Additionally, the Sleep Score provides in-depth analysis of your sleep quality, including snore detection and actionable tips for better rest. Improving your sleep has never been easier.
     
    Available in South Africa
    The Galaxy Ring is now available in South Africa to let you embrace a more personalised and stylish approach to health and wellness. It is available in Samsung stores, online, the Samsung Shop App, as well as participating retailers and operators, at a recommended retail price of R7,999[5].
     
    [1]Samsung Health tracking features are intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health related information accessed through the device and application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician.
    [2]Titanium is only applied on Galaxy Ring device frame.
    [3]For Samsung Health AI features, the health data tracked from Samsung Galaxy Ring must be synchronised with the Samsung Health app. Needs at least the previous day’s activity and sleep data, and heart rate data during sleep. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition.
    [4]Based on the battery life of a size 13 product. Battery life will vary depending on ring size.
    [5]Recommended Retail Price Only. Prices may vary per retailer.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Donald Trump’s decision to slash USAID is hurting American soft power and making the world less safe

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chase Johnson, PhD Candidate, University of Warwick

    The Trump administration’s foreign policy has raised alarms. It seems to have shifted America away from it traditional Nato allies, favouring instead a closer relationship with Russia. There has also been talk of plans to control Greenland, the Panama Canal – possibly even Canada. This has caused sleepless nights for political leaders, especially in Europe.

    However, in the developing world, the biggest concern is the US government’s suspension of development aid. For people in these regions, access to clean water, seeds for crops and vaccines is a matter of life or death.

    The suspension is presently the subject of a battle in the US Supreme Court, but at the end of February, the administration said it planned to cut 90% of all overseas aid contracts. With a single stroke of President Trump’s Sharpie pen, this has struck out US$60 billion (£39 billion) of US aid assistance, globally. Internal projections by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), published by the New York Times at the beginning of March, forecast dire consequences, including a massive increase in diseases such as malaria and polio as well as a rise in cases of malnutrition of up to a million children.

    USAID was founded in 1961 under John F. Kennedy’s administration. It operated with an annual budget of about US$58 billion – orders of magnitude larger than any other country’s development portfolio. It maintains a staff of diplomats, subject experts, and also employs local nationals around the world. It is a critical component of US soft power and works in close proximity to the country’s national security interests.

    USAID’s absence will be felt around the world. Perhaps the most consequential effect lies with the freezing of American food aid. Experts have already predicted that without this lifeline, Sudan could face a famine to compound the effects of the civil war that has raged there. The consequences of this will be very public, producing heartbreaking headlines and images.

    But there is another side to this that the Trump administration seems to be overlooking. USAID is one of the largest single customers of American farm products that constitute the country’s food aid packages – 1 million metric tonnes in 2024 alone.

    One of the most misunderstood concepts of foreign aid is the fact that large portions of its budget are spent domestically. A report may say that billions of dollars of food aid were given by the US to Sudan – but much of that represents payments to American farmers who are growing the food that is then donated to starving people – not just in Sudan, either.

    America’s farmers already exist on very tight margins, so an unexpected loss in revenue such as this, is likely to be a serious blow to them as well. It’s just one example of the effect this decision will have both at home and abroad.

    Pulling away the safety net

    Without USAID the world is less safe. There is a large body of research on how development assistance is a critical component of an effective national security strategy. In 2018, the then secretary of defense, Jim Mattis, who was appointed by Trump, said in an interview that his message to the world is: “Work with our diplomats because you do not want to fight the Department of Defense.”

    To illustrate Mattis’s point, consider the academic work done on the emergence of climate-driven conflicts driven by water and food shortages. One crisis simulation I use in my classrooms puts students in the role of solving a kinetic (shooting) war over water rights in the Horn of Africa. This particular crisis, while used as a game to teach national security, could very easily become a reality. It’s the sort of thing USAID helps to prevent.

    I have had the fortune to serve my country in several capacities. Before I started my doctorate in intelligence and national security, I spent four years working for the US government, both as a development worker and in the diplomatic and defence sectors. While diplomacy, defence and development work might look very different on the surface, I can attest that they are quite similar – and very closely linked.

    They operate in very different spheres – but the goal is ultimately the same: to help partner nations enhance their own safety and prosperity. Without this help they may turn to adversaries such as Russia and China to provide assistance and security. These adversaries then have an opportunity to expand their influence around the world, which can include supporting dictatorships and predatory lending, such as seen in the Chinese belt and road initiative.

    Peacekeeping through soft power

    As a US peace corps volunteer, I called on USAID funding to help the community I was assigned to. In Akhaltsikhe, Georgia I taught English and coordinated youth development programmes.

    The Akhaltsikhe region is one of the poorest in the country – and the school was in a sorry state of affairs. With a USAID grant, we were able to renovate part of the school and create an English language learning centre, which still thrives today, 12 years later. I can say first-hand that this project had a big impact on the image of the US among the Georgian people in my community.

    It should go without saying that the US has a chequered past when it comes to some of its foreign policy interventions. But the country’s wealth and resources offer it the unique position to help grow and enhance western values in parts of the world that deserve the same freedom that developed countries in the west take for granted. In my opinion, that is money well spent.

    Whatever value one might place on the US global footprint does not erase the truth of its existence. America is called upon to uphold democracy, to lift people out of poverty, and to respond to crises no matter where they are. Donald Trump, Elon Musk and his Doge staffers should have paid greater heed to USAID’s motto: “For the American people.”

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

    – ref. Why Donald Trump’s decision to slash USAID is hurting American soft power and making the world less safe – https://theconversation.com/why-donald-trumps-decision-to-slash-usaid-is-hurting-american-soft-power-and-making-the-world-less-safe-251062

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –