NewzIntel.com

Category: Technology

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Backing bold science with Endeavour funding

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has reinforced its commitment to science-led economic growth by funding 46 high-potential research projects, says Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti.
    The projects will be funded by the contestable Endeavour Fund, which invests in research that unlocks new knowledge, technologies, and capabilities. The Smart Ideas stream of the fund targets bold, high-risk projects by catalysing and rapidly testing promising, innovative research.
    “Our research institutions and firms deepen our talent pipeline and grow the value of our technology exports. Supporting early-stage, high-impact research is part of our plan to foster innovation and drive growth,” Dr Reti says.
    “The selected projects span a wide range of sectors, from MedTech and quantum computing to climate resilience and sustainable agriculture.
    “This year’s recipients include innovations in cardiac diagnostics, climate forecasting and AI-powered pest control.
    “These projects will deliver real-world impact. Each initiative is designed to tackle national challenges while unlocking new economic opportunities for New Zealand, building the foundations for a stronger, more resilient economy.
    “These investments are about more than just research. They grow capability, attract global partnerships, and create industries of the future,” Dr Reti says.
    Contracts typically last two to three years and the total value per contract is in the range of $400,000 to $1 million. The Endeavour Fund is managed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and is New Zealand’s largest contestable fund.
    Further information about the projects can be found on the MBIE website: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/currently-funded-smart-ideas

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Greece deepen tech cooperation at Athens innovation forum

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

    New agreements focusing on innovation were signed Tuesday between Chinese and Greek universities and institutes at a conference held in Athens, aiming to boost scientific and industrial cooperation.

    The Greece-Jiangsu Innovation and Industrial Cooperation Conference held at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) brought together more than 160 officials, academics, and industry experts from both countries. The forum focused on advancing joint research and commercialization in high-tech fields.

    NTUA Rector Ioannis K. Chatjigeorgiou noted his university’s strong ties with Chinese universities, saying, “We expect meaningful outcomes for science, education, and bilateral relations.”

    NTUA signed two partnership agreements: one with the China University of Mining and Technology (CUMT), and another jointly with the Jiangsu Industrial Technology Research Institute (JITRI) and the Shanghai Yangtze Delta Innovation Institute.

    The agreement between NTUA and CUMT builds on longstanding collaboration between their electrical engineering departments, said CUMT President Liu Bo.

    During the conference, experts from China and Greece exchanged views on cutting-edge topics, including RISC-V processor architecture, sustainable maritime technologies, and energy innovation. Researchers from both countries discussed ongoing projects and held talks to explore future collaboration opportunities during panel discussions and roundtables. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Array Technologies Announces Pricing of Upsized Offering of Convertible Senior Notes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Array Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARRY) (the “Company” or “ARRAY”) today announced that it has priced an upsized offering of $300 million in aggregate principal amount of 2.875% convertible senior notes due 2031 (the “Notes”) in a private placement (the “Offering”) to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). ARRAY has also granted the initial purchasers of the Notes an option to purchase, for settlement within a 13-day period from, and including the date on which the Notes are first issued, up to an additional $45 million in aggregate principal amount of Notes. The Offering is expected to close on June 27, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    The Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of ARRAY, and will accrue interest at a rate of 2.875% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on January 1 and July 1 of each year, beginning on January 1, 2026. The Notes will mature on July 1, 2031, unless earlier redeemed, repurchased or converted.

    ARRAY estimates that the net proceeds from the Offering will be approximately $290.4 million (or approximately $334.1 million if the initial purchasers exercise their option to purchase additional Notes in full), after deducting the initial purchasers’ discounts and estimated expenses payable by ARRAY. ARRAY intends to use (i) $150 million of the net proceeds to repay outstanding indebtedness under its term loan facility, (ii) approximately $30.5 million of the net proceeds to fund the cost of entering into the capped call transactions described below and (iii) a portion of the net proceeds to fund repurchases of approximately $100 million in aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 1.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2028 (the “Existing Convertible Notes”) for approximately $78.3 million in cash, plus accrued and unpaid interest. ARRAY intends to use any remaining net proceeds from the Offering for general corporate purposes, which may include additional repayments or repurchases of outstanding indebtedness. If the initial purchasers exercise their option to purchase additional Notes, ARRAY expects to use a portion of the net proceeds from the sale of the additional Notes to enter into additional capped call transactions.

    At any time prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding April 1, 2031, the Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders of the Notes only upon the satisfaction of specified conditions and during certain periods. On or after April 1, 2031, until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, the Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders of the Notes at any time regardless of these conditions. The initial conversion rate will be 123.1262 shares of ARRAY’s common stock per $1,000 principal amount of Notes (equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $8.12 per share of ARRAY’s common stock). The initial conversion price of the Notes represents a premium of approximately 27.5% over the last reported sale price of ARRAY’s common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market (the “Nasdaq”) on June 24, 2025.

    Upon conversion of the Notes, ARRAY will pay cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the Notes to be converted and pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of ARRAY’s common stock or a combination of cash and shares of ARRAY’s common stock, at ARRAY’s election, in respect of the remainder, if any, of ARRAY’s conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes being converted, based on the then applicable conversion rate.

    ARRAY may redeem for cash all or any portion of the Notes, at its option, on or after July 6, 2029 and prior to the 41st scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, if the last reported sale price of ARRAY’s common stock has been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during any 30 consecutive trading day period (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which ARRAY provides notice of redemption at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. No sinking fund is provided for the Notes.

    Subject to certain conditions, if ARRAY undergoes a “fundamental change” (as defined in the indenture that will govern the Notes), holders of the Notes may require ARRAY to repurchase for cash all or any portion of their Notes at a fundamental change repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be repurchased, plus any accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the fundamental change repurchase date. In addition, upon certain corporate events that occur prior to the maturity date or upon redemption, ARRAY will, under certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate for holders who elect to convert their Notes in connection with any such corporate event or convert their Notes called (or deemed called) for redemption during the related redemption period, as the case may be.

    In connection with the pricing of the Notes, ARRAY entered into privately negotiated capped call transactions with certain of the initial purchasers or their respective affiliates and certain other financial institutions (the “option counterparties”). The capped call transactions will cover, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, the number of shares of ARRAY’s common stock initially underlying the Notes sold in the Offering. The capped call transactions are expected generally to reduce potential dilution to ARRAY’s common stock upon conversion of any Notes and/or offset any cash payments ARRAY is required to make in excess of the principal amount of converted Notes, as the case may be, with such reduction and/or offset subject to a cap based on a cap price initially equal to $12.74 per share which represents a premium of 100% over the last reported sale price of ARRAY’s common stock on the Nasdaq on June 24, 2025.

    ARRAY has been advised that, in connection with establishing their initial hedges of the capped call transactions, the option counterparties or their respective affiliates expect to purchase shares of ARRAY’s common stock and/or enter into various derivative transactions with respect to ARRAY’s common stock concurrently with or shortly after the pricing of the Notes. This activity could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of ARRAY’s common stock or the Notes at that time. In addition, the option counterparties or their respective affiliates may modify their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivatives with respect to ARRAY’s common stock and/or purchasing or selling ARRAY’s common stock or other securities of ARRAY in secondary market transactions following the pricing of the Notes and prior to the maturity of the Notes (and are likely to do so (x) during any observation period related to a conversion of Notes or following any repurchase of Notes in connection with any “fundamental change” (as defined in the indenture for the Notes) and (y) following any other repurchase of Notes if ARRAY elects to unwind a portion of the capped call transactions in connection with such repurchase). This activity could also cause or avoid an increase or decrease in the market price of ARRAY’s common stock or the Notes, which could affect the ability of noteholders to convert the Notes and, to the extent the activity occurs during any observation period related to a conversion of Notes, it could affect the amount and value of the consideration that noteholders will receive upon conversion of the Notes.

    In connection with the pricing of the Notes, ARRAY entered into separate and individually negotiated transactions with certain holders of the Existing Convertible Notes to repurchase approximately $100 million in aggregate principal amount of the Existing Convertible Notes for approximately $78.3 million in cash, plus accrued and unpaid interest, using a portion of the net proceeds from the Offering (the “Existing Convertible Note Repurchases”). Holders of any Existing Convertible Notes that are repurchased as described above may enter into or unwind various derivatives with respect to ARRAY’s common stock (including entering into derivatives with one or more of the initial purchasers in the Offering or their respective affiliates) and/or purchase or sell shares of ARRAY’s common stock, which may occur concurrently with or shortly after the pricing of the Notes.

    The Existing Convertible Note Repurchases and the potential related market activities by holders of the Existing Convertible Notes that are repurchased by ARRAY could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) or decrease (or reduce the size of any increase in) the market price of ARRAY’s common stock, which may affect the trading price of the Notes at that time and the initial conversion price of the Notes. ARRAY cannot predict the magnitude of such market activity or the overall effect it will have on the price of the Notes or ARRAY’s common stock.

    Neither the Notes nor the shares of ARRAY’s common stock potentially issuable upon conversion of the Notes, if any, have been, or will be, registered under the Securities Act, the securities laws of any other jurisdiction or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state laws. The Notes will be offered and sold only to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers in the United States pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act. This news release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, the Notes, nor shall there be any sale of the Notes in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

    About Array Technologies, Inc.

    ARRAY Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARRY) is a leading global provider of solar tracking technology to utility-scale and distributed generation customers, who construct, develop, and operate solar PV sites. With solutions engineered to withstand the harshest weather conditions, ARRAY’s high-quality solar trackers, software platforms and field services combine to maximize energy production and deliver value to ARRAY’s customers for the entire lifecycle of a project. Founded and headquartered in the United States, ARRAY is rooted in manufacturing and driven by technology – relying on its domestic manufacturing, diversified global supply chain, and customer-centric approach to design, deliver, commission, train, and support solar energy deployment around the world.

    Media Contact:
    Nicole Stewart
    505-589-8257
    nicole.stewart@arraytechinc.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    ARRAY Technologies, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    investors@arraytechinc.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “shall,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict” or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the completion of the Offering, the expected amount and intended use of the net proceeds and the anticipated effects of entering into the capped call transactions and the Existing Convertible Note Repurchases. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and important factors (many of which are beyond the Company’s control) that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward looking statements, including risks and uncertainties associated with market conditions, including market interest rates, the trading price and volatility of ARRAY’s common stock, and risks relating to this Offering, the Company’s business and operations and results of financing efforts, including those described in more detail in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 and subsequent reports and other documents on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of such statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Beneficient Enters into $1.91 Million GP Primary Capital Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beneficient (NASDAQ: BENF) (“Ben” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled platform providing exit opportunities and primary capital solutions and related trust and custody services to holders of alternative assets through its proprietary online platform AltAccess, today announced it has closed on the financing of a $1.91 million primary capital commitment for Mendoza Ventures Growth Fund III, LP (“Fund”), a fund managed by Mendoza Ventures Growth GP III, L.L.C., LP (“Fund Manager”), an asset manager focused on investing in technology companies where there is an opportunity for innovation, modernization, and disruption.

    The transaction represents Ben’s third GP Primary transaction of the fiscal year and fourth since formally launching the program in late 2024. In exchange for an interest in the Fund, the Fund received approximately $1.91 million in stated value of shares of the Company’s Resettable Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Preferred Stock”), which is convertible at the election of the holder into shares of the Company’s Class A common stock, subject to the terms and conditions of the transaction documents. As a result of the transaction, the collateral for the Company’s ExAlt loan portfolio is expected to increase by approximately $1.91 million of interests in alternative assets. Concurrently, the Company also entered into a Preferred Liquidity Provider Program Agreement with the Fund, whereby the Company may facilitate ongoing liquidity solutions for the Fund and its limited partners.

    “We are excited to continue recent momentum by completing another GP primary capital transaction, our second transaction with a fund managed by the Fund Manager,” said Beneficient management. “We will continue to pursue additional opportunities that align with our strategic vision and growth objectives.”

    Beneficient’s GP Primary Commitment Program is focused on providing primary capital solutions and financing anchor commitments to general partners during their fundraising efforts while immediately deploying capital into our equity. Through the program, Beneficient seeks to help satisfy the up to $330 billion of potential demand for primary commitments to meet fundraising needs.

    About Beneficient 
    Beneficient (Nasdaq: BENF) – Ben, for short – is on a mission to democratize the global alternative asset investment market by providing traditionally underserved investors − mid-to-high net worth individuals, small-to-midsized institutions and General Partners seeking exit options, anchor commitments and valued-added services for their funds− with solutions that could help them unlock the value in their alternative assets. Ben’s AltQuote® tool provides customers with a range of potential exit options within minutes, while customers can log on to the AltAccess® portal to explore opportunities and receive proposals in a secure online environment.         
    Its subsidiary, Beneficient Fiduciary Financial, L.L.C., received its charter under the State of Kansas’ Technology-Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institution (TEFFI) Act and is subject to regulatory oversight by the Office of the State Bank Commissioner. 

    For more information, visit www.trustben.com or follow us on LinkedIn. 

    Contacts
    Matt Kreps: 214-597-8200, mkreps@darrowir.com
    Michael Wetherington: 214-284-1199, mwetherington@darrowir.com
    Investor Relations: investors@beneficient.com

    Important Information and Where You Can Find It
    This press release may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of a vote of stockholders to approve the issuance of the Company’s Class A common stock upon conversion of the Preferred Stock (the “Transactions”). In connection with the requisite stockholder approval, Ben will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a preliminary proxy statement and a definitive proxy statement, which will be sent to the stockholders of Ben, seeking such approvals related to the Transactions.

    INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF BEN AND THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES ARE URGED TO READ, WHEN AVAILABLE, THE PROXY STATEMENT AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE TRANSACTIONS, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BEN AND THE TRANSACTIONS. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain a free copy of the proxy statement, as well as other relevant documents filed with the SEC containing information about Ben, without charge, at the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov). Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Ben can also be obtained, without charge, by directing a request to Investor Relations, Beneficient, 325 North St. Paul Street, Suite 4850, Dallas, Texas 75201, or email investors@beneficient.com.

    Participants in the Solicitation of Proxies in Connection with Transactions
    Ben and certain of its directors, executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the requisite stockholder approvals under the rules of the SEC. Information regarding Ben’s directors and executive officers is available in its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on July 9, 2024 and certain current reports on Form 8-K filed by Ben. Other information regarding the participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the Transactions and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the proxy statement and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC. Free copies of these documents, when available, may be obtained as described in the preceding paragraph.

    Not an Offer of Securities
    The information in this communication is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute, or form a part of, an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. The securities that are the subject of the Transactions have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.

    Forward Looking Statements
    Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Transactions. The words ”anticipate,” “believe,” ”continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” ”plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, them. Because such statements are based on expectations as to future financial and operating results and are not statements of fact, actual results may differ materially from those projected.

    Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others: the ultimate outcome of the Transactions, including obtaining the requisite vote of securityholders, and the risks, uncertainties, and factors set forth under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, subsequent events, or circumstances or other changes affecting such statements except to the extent required by applicable law.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and, except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Downstate Residents Urged to Conserve Electricity

    Source: US State of New York

    Official websites use ny.gov

    A ny.gov website belongs to an official New York State government organization.

    Secure ny.gov websites use HTTPS

    A lock icon or https:// means you’ve safely connected to a ny.gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

    June 24, 2025

    Albany, NY

    “Since the beginning of this week’s extreme heat, we’ve been carefully monitoring our electrical grid to protect New Yorkers. Earlier this evening the New York Independent System Operator warned that we are approaching peak capacity in the downstate region and it is critical to conserve electricity between now and 10:00 PM. That means setting window air conditioning units to 76 degrees and avoiding unnecessary appliance use. At the same time, it’s critical to stay safe in this dangerous heat: find a cooling center near you, especially if you’re a senior citizen or have health concerns. Working together, we can easily get through this critical period.”

    You are leaving the official State of New York website.

    The State of New York does not imply approval of the listed destinations, warrant the accuracy of any information set out in those destinations, or endorse any opinions expressed therein. External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites.

    Visit Site

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 06/24/2025 Blackburn, Blumenthal, Lee, Klobuchar, and Durbin Introduce Bipartisan Antitrust Bill to Promote App Store Competition

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) introduced the bipartisan Open App Markets Act, which would set fair, clear, and enforceable rules to promote competition and strengthen consumer protections within the app market. Google and Apple currently have gatekeeper control of the two dominant mobile operating systems and their app stores that allow them to exclusively dictate the terms of the app market, inhibiting competition and restricting consumer choice.

    “The days of Big Tech’s anticompetitive, price-gouging business practices are over;” saidSenator Durbin. “Our bipartisan Open App Markets Act places important limits on dominant gatekeeping companies in the app store market, like Apple and Google. These clear, fair, and enforceable rules will open the app markets back up to competition and give consumers more choices. I look forward to working with Republicans and Democrats to make it law.”
    BACKGROUND
    Mobile devices are central to consumers’ economic, social, and civic lives, and the mobile app market is a significant part of the digital economy. In 2024 alone, consumers worldwide spent 92 billion U.S. dollars on the Apple App Store, and about 35.7 billion U.S. dollars on the Google Play Store.
    Both Apple and Google have appeared to use their powerful gatekeeper control to stifle competition in the app store market.
    Apple has prevented the creation of third-party app stores on iPhones, required that apps exclusively use their own expensive payment system, and penalized app developers for telling users about discounted offers.
    These strict terms close off avenues of competition and drive up prices for consumers.
    Startups also face serious challenges when Big Tech gatekeepers are able to prioritize their own apps to the disadvantage of others, make use of competitors’ confidential business information, and block developers from using features on a consumer’s phone.
    THE OPEN APP MARKETS ACT
    The Open App Markets Act would:
    Protect developers’ rights to tell consumers about lower prices and offer competitive pricing;
    Protect sideloading of apps;
    Promote competition by opening the market to third-party app stores, startup apps, and alternative payment systems;
    Make it possible for developers to offer new experiences that take advantage of consumer device features;
    Give consumers greater control over their devices;
    Prevent app stores from disadvantaging developers; and
    Establish safeguards to preserve consumer privacy, security, and safety.
    Click here for bill text.
    ENDORSEMENTS
    The Open App Markets Act is endorsed by numerous technology and consumer groups, including Spotify, the American Economic Liberties Project, the American Principles Project, Epic Games, the Bull Moose Project,  the Coalition for App Fairness, Consumer Action for a Strong Economy, the Digital First Project, the Digital Progress Institute, The Ethics and Public Policy Center, the Foundation for American Innovation, the Internet Accountability Project, the National Security Institute, Proton, Public Knowledge, Tech Oversight Project, and Y Combinator:

    “We applaud Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for reintroducing the Open App Markets Act, continuing the fight for a free and fair internet in the United States. This bill takes a targeted, strategic approach that will create more economic opportunity, unlock innovation, reduce barriers for businesses and creators, and give American consumers lower prices and more control over purchases made through their iPhones,” said Dustee Jenkins, Spotify Chief Public Affairs Officer.

    “Hundreds of billions of dollars pass through mobile app stores annually, and both Apple and Google have gone to extraordinary, illegal lengths to make sure they are the only stores in town, stealing untold billions from developers and consumers in the process. While Apple and Google drag out their appeals in federal court, the Open App Markets Act would tear down walled gardens, stimulate innovation, and protect developers and consumers from unfair app store taxes today,” said Lee Hepner, Senior Counsel, American Economic Liberties Project.

    “The American Principles Project strongly supports the Open App Markets Act as essential legislation to protect American families from Big Tech’s monopolistic control. Apple and Google’s stranglehold over the app marketplace has created a rigged system that stifles economic opportunity for small businesses and undermines free expression online. This legislation will restore free market principles while ensuring that families have access to diverse viewpoints and applications that reflect their values. The current 30 percent tax imposed by these gatekeepers amounts to corporate welfare for Big Tech at the expense of Main Street America, and it’s time for Congress to stand with American families and small businesses against Silicon Valley’s unchecked power,” stated the American Principles Project.

    “The Open App Markets Act is a must-pass bill that would force Apple and Google to end their anticompetitive mobile app store practices. Apple and Google’s unfair terms and exorbitant fees stifle competition and crush innovation, hurting developers and consumers alike. We look forward to swift passage of this bill and an open mobile app ecosystem in the U.S. with alternative app stores and in-app payment systems,” said Bakari Middleton, VP of Public Policy at Epic Games.

    “The future of digital innovation depends on fair access—not corporate gatekeeping. The Open App Markets Act is a crucial step towards breaking the stranglehold of Big Tech, levels the playing field, and puts power back where it belongs: with users and creators,” stated the Bull Moose Project.

    “CAF commends Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for introducing the Open App Markets Act and Senators Lee and Klobuchar for co-sponsoring the bill. This groundbreaking, bipartisan legislation will open up Apple and Google’s mobile walled gardens to long-overdue competition. By banning harmful and anti-competitive practices, the bill would lead to lower prices and more choice  in how apps are accessed and distributed. Thanks to a recent court decision, US consumers are already benefiting from app developers offering alternative ways to make purchases. But legislation is needed to fully unlock the potential of the mobile app economy and unleash a competitive marketplace that benefits users and developers alike. We are grateful to Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for their enduring leadership on these issues, and we encourage swift passage of this vital bill,” said Gene Burrus, Global Policy Counsel for the Coalition for App Fairness.

    “Imagine a fisherman sailing on a vast ocean yet having only two fishing poles from which to choose. This is our current mobile economy: vast seas of information, data, and innovation accessible only through the iron grip of the app-store duopoly of Google and Apple, who continue to game the rules in their favor. It’s time to open the digital high-seas for developers large and small, to spark more free-market innovation for America’s consumers and for our position as the global leader in digital technology,” stated Consumer Action for a Strong Economy.

    “Our team at Digital First Project is proud to support the reintroduction of the Open App Markets Act. This essential reform is a crucial step toward restoring competition and fairness in the digital marketplace by ending the gatekeeper control of dominant app store platforms such as Google and Apple. By promoting consumer choice and giving developers more freedom, this proposal fosters innovation among app developers and enables more choice for consumers,” stated theDigital First Project.

    “Apple and Google are the choke points of the mobile ecosystem and their Herculean control over app stores is at the heart of it. OAMA is a bipartisan, responsible approach to ensure the innovation economy can flourish and not be bridled by Big Tech. This is a welcomed and needed reform!” stated the Digital Progress Institute.

    “For years, Apple and Google have failed to protect children from harmful content on their app stores. Even worse, they have promoted inappropriate apps to children in their stores. But because of their market power, parents and children have no alternatives in the mobile ecosystem. The Open App Markets Act would enable different app stores and app distribution methods that cater to the specific needs of families. OAMA would critically allow for family-friendly and child-safe app stores to arise as competitors to give parents alternative options that better protect kids. I commend Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal for this effort and their continued leadership in protecting children from digital harms,” said Clare Morell, Fellow at The Ethics and Public Policy Center.

    “Apple and Google are the gatekeepers to the mobile ecosystem, and they have continually abused that power. Their app store monopoly rents are an effective tax on the entire app economy, and other anti-competitive practices have further limited choice and innovation. The Open App Markets Act would help lift the millstone that Apple and Google put on consumers and developers by bringing much-needed competition to mobile app stores and app distribution. I commend Senators Blackburn, Blumenthal, Lee, and Klobuchar for their leadership and urge all members of Congress to join this effort,” said Evan Swarztrauber, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for American Innovation.

    “The reintroduction of the Open App Markets Act is another crucial step in the battle to rein in the unchecked power of Big Tech. Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal deserve credit for their continued bipartisan leadership and commitment to restoring fairness and competition in the app marketplace. Apple and Google have operated as unaccountable, monopolistic gatekeepers on the app store market for far too long. This bill would finally give small businesses and entrepreneurs a real shot to compete. The Internet Accountability Project proudly supports this legislation that stands up for fairness and competition,” stated the Internet Accountability Project.

    “I have observed in my doctoral thesis of 2017 that there is a de facto app store duopoly between Apple and Google, controlling which apps are seen and under which conditions. Whether an app can even be found requires an investment in app store optimization (ASO). App developers have only two means to access end users, and there is limited competition on the conditions, leaving app developers as price takers. While there are benefits of centralization of app markets, there are tradeoffs in privacy and choice. In any event, the scale of such concentration would bring regulatory scrutiny in any other industry. The two app stores have enjoyed a relative regulatory free ride for a long time. Few policymakers have been interested in taking on this behemoth. Hence I applaud Senator Blackburn and Senator Blumenthal for their leadership,” said Roslyn Layton, PhD, Senior Fellow at the National Security Institute.

    “App stores are the lifeblood of all digital companies, including disruptors like Proton. Gatekeepers like Apple and Google have been consolidating market power in their app marketplaces for years, ultimately to the detriment of consumers. They have exploited their control to impose extortionate conditions on developers, like compelling use of their own payment systems and charging 30% transaction fees. This amounts to a massive tax on the Internet, one that often gets passed onto consumers through higher prices or reduced investment in competitive innovations. Ending these monopoly abuses on mobile payments would not only create fairer prices, but also promote competition while benefiting developers and consumers alike. Proton applauds Senators Blumenthal, Blackburn, and X for recognizing these realities, and drafting a bill that would unleash a seismic level of innovation,” said Andy Yen, Founder & CEO of Proton.

    “Too often, the tech giants have controlled the app marketplace, dictating who gets access and under what terms. The Open App Markets Act represents a much-needed shift toward a more competitive, open ecosystem where developers are empowered to innovate and users are the ultimate beneficiaries. We need policies that prioritize security, transparency, and choice, rather than allowing corporations to dictate the rules. It’s time for users, not Big Tech, to decide what apps thrive in the marketplace. This bill is a step toward restoring market fairness and putting users back in the driver’s seat,” stated Public Knowledge.

    “Google and Apple’s app store monopolies have not only artificially inflated prices, they’ve also blocked new and innovative products from hitting the market. Their gatekeeping has been a drag on our entire economy, and it’s time to make their monopolies illegal. The Open App Markets Act will help dislodge app store monopolies, lower prices, and build a better, more open internet,” said Sacha Haworth, Executive Director of the Tech Oversight Project.

    “This bipartisan legislation ends the practice of dominant app stores forcing their own payment systems and self-preferencing, while giving consumers the freedom to install and set third-party stores and payment options—common-sense rules already embraced in other markets. Enacting it will spur competition, lower prices, and unleash a new wave of American innovation that keeps our startup ecosystem the most dynamic in the world,” said Luther Lowe, Head of Public Policy for Y Combinator.
    RELATED

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Kenya holds forum to promote Sino-African agricultural, industrial cooperation

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

    Hamadi Boga, vice president of Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), delivers a speech during the inaugural Africa-China Forum on Agri-Tech and Industrial Cooperation in Nairobi, Kenya, on June 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The inaugural Africa-China Forum on Agri-Tech and Industrial Cooperation took place on Tuesday in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.

    The day-long conference was hosted by Nairobi-based Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Beijing Jingwa Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Center, the International Livestock Research Institute and the Finance Center for South-South Cooperation.

    Ibrahim Mayaki, African Union special envoy for food systems, said the continent stands to gain from emulating China’s model of agricultural transformation, driven by forward-looking policies, technology and innovations.

    “We can leverage China’s successes in agricultural modernization, rural transformation and poverty alleviation as reference points for Africa’s own agricultural renaissance, while recognizing the specificity of African ecosystems and cultures,” Mayaki said.

    Mayaki stressed that joint research between China and Africa in climate-smart farming practices, development of high-yielding crops, modern irrigation technologies and digital extension services could offer lasting solution to hunger, rural poverty and malnutrition affecting the world’s second-largest continent.

    Hamadi Boga, vice president of AGRA, noted that China has set the pace in technology- and innovation-led agricultural modernization, inspiring African nations to follow suit, feed their growing population and leapfrog into an industrial era.

    The Sino-African agricultural cooperation, according to Boga, has rapidly evolved as witnessed by technology transfer, establishment of demonstration zones, exchange visits and institutional collaboration, boosting crop yield, agro-processing and exports.

    Boga also called on African research institutions to forge long-term partnership with their Chinese counterparts to accelerate an inclusive food systems transformation, rooted in improved soil health, climate resilience, access to finance, technologies and markets.

    Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan said China is keen to share with Africa’s bilateral partners its home-grown technologies, innovations, experience and best practices, which could hasten the continent’s agricultural modernization to realize food security and boost export competitiveness.

    Guo noted that China-Africa agricultural cooperation has prioritized technology transfer, facilitating trade in agricultural commodities and upgrading value chains for farm produce.

    In addition, China has partnered with African countries to enhance response to crop pests and diseases, capacity building for extension workers and farmers, deployment of technologies for scaling up agro-processing and value addition, Guo added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UN chief calls for stronger global action to bridge digital divide

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

    A session is held during the 20th United Nations Internet Governance Forum in Lillestrom, Norway, on June 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday urged the international community to step up efforts to bridge the digital divide by expanding affordable and meaningful Internet access, close the digital skills gap, counter online hate speech, promote information integrity, tolerance and respect, address the concentration of digital power, and foster diversity, transparency, and trust in digital spaces.

    Guterres made the remarks in a video address at the opening ceremony of the 20th United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF), which opened Tuesday in Lillestrom, Norway.

    He praised the IGF’s two decades of efforts in advancing inclusive Internet public policy and underscored the importance of building an Internet rooted in dignity, opportunity, and human rights.

    “Two decades ago, the idea of digital cooperation was a bold aspiration. Today, it is an absolute necessity and a shared responsibility,” Guterres said. “Let us keep building a digital future that protects, empowers, and includes everyone, everywhere.”

    The 20th IGF, held until Friday under the theme “Building Digital Governance Together”, has attracted over 800 in-person participants and more than 8,000 online attendees.

    The forum will feature over 150 sessions covering key topics such as artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, digital trust and security, data protection, infrastructure development, universal access, and the role of digital technologies in promoting peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.

    Since its inception in 2006, the IGF has evolved into a vital platform for global dialogue on Internet governance and plays an essential role in shaping inclusive, transparent, and accountable digital policies worldwide. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 2025 Summer Davos sees sustainability and AI meet global collaboration

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

    Guests attend the parallel session “Checking In on the Energy Transition” during the 2025 Summer Davos Forum at the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin) in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, June 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A premier barometer of global economic trends and industrial transformation, the 2025 Summer Davos Forum has seen record attendance for recent years, with over 1,700 participants traveling from around the world.

    Its popularity is testament to both the convening power of the event, which is taking place from Tuesday to Thursday in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, and the unparalleled magnetism of China’s mega-scale market.

    Also called the 16th Annual Meeting of New Champions of the World Economic Forum (WEF), this year’s forum is themed “Entrepreneurship for a New Era.”

    “The theme, which builds on the DNA of this meeting since its inception, particularly focuses on how innovation, entrepreneurship and technological advancements can unlock growth, competitiveness and productivity,” Mirek Dusek, managing director of the WEF, said on Tuesday at the forum’s opening press conference.

    The event spotlights five key areas: deciphering the world economy, outlook on China, industries disrupted, investing in people and the planet, and new energy and materials.

    Unlike the annual meeting of the WEF held every January in Switzerland’s Davos, the Summer Davos Forum places greater emphasis on the future of business and technological advancement. This year’s edition not only demonstrates China’s achievements in high-quality economic development and its steadfast commitment to high-standard opening-up to the international community — it is also a platform for China to actively share the opportunities and dividends of its development with the world.

    Green transformation 

    On the rooftop of the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin), where the 2025 Summer Davos Forum is being held for the first time, solar panels supply continuous clean energy to power the venue during the event.

    According to the State Grid Corporation of China, this edition of the forum has achieved a 100 percent green power supply for its venues, utilizing a total of 800,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity — equivalent to saving about 300 tonnes of standard coal combustion and cutting approximately 600 tonnes of carbon emissions.

    The venue utilizes photovoltaic power generation and sponge city technologies, replacing conventional energy sources with renewables to reduce infrastructure carbon emissions, while significantly enhancing energy, water and material efficiency.

    Sustainability is at the core of WEF events, said Severin Podolak, head of event management and operations for WEF, adding that the sofas and other furniture used in the venues are recycled materials from 2023, and some of the paints used for decoration were derived from renewable resources such as fishing nets.

    Additionally, a fleet of hundreds of new energy vehicles (NEVs) from six leading carmakers, including Audi FAW, are facilitating eco-conscious transportation for forum participants, advancing the event’s carbon neutrality goals.

    The concept of sustainability has been integrated thoroughly — from venue design to the forum’s agenda, with key topics such as Asia’s carbon markets and the next steps for climate resilience becoming focal points of discussions, addressing sustainable development directly.

    Green nitrogen fixation has been named in the WEF’s Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025, alongside innovations like collaborative sensing and autonomous biochemical sensing, further solidifying sustainability as a global priority.

    Today, China stands as the global leader in renewable energy investment. The nation has pioneered transformative technologies in the fields of batteries and electric vehicles, creating millions of high-quality jobs in these future-oriented sectors, according to Gim Huay Neo, managing director of the WEF.

    “I think this is an area where there’s a lot of scope for us to learn from China’s experience, where there could actually be constructive partnerships between China and other parts of the world to also support the global energy transition,” Neo said. “The climate emergency and the planetary crisis cannot be resolved if we do not bring everybody along on this journey.”

    AI revolution

    A futuristic exhibition zone at the venue has become a major attraction, where cutting-edge AI products like humanoid robots, brain-computer interfaces and fully autonomous drone inspection systems are drawing large crowds of attendees. These innovations vividly showcase Chinese enterprises’ technological breakthroughs and pioneering applications of AI.

    “China may have found the key to restarting global economic growth — its ‘AI Plus’ strategy,” said Liu Gang, chief economist of the Chinese Institute of New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Strategies.

    He explained that integrating artificial intelligence with the real economy yields remarkable economic benefits. For example, research conducted by his team shows that applying AI to the development of new materials can improve efficiency 100-fold to 1,000-fold.

    Across various sessions at the 2025 Summer Davos, discussions on AI are unfolding with remarkable intensity, mirroring the fervent debates witnessed at other premier global forums. Notably, a dedicated session titled “Understanding China’s approach to AI” will be convened, underscoring the international community’s growing recognition of China’s pivotal role in the global AI development landscape.

    “It will be like the industrial revolution,” former British Prime Minister Tony Blair said when talking about new technologies at the forum. Countries that embrace it go up, and countries that don’t go down, he said.

    “I think how you understand, master and harness the technology revolution solution is the single biggest government challenge for the 21st century,” he noted.

    Global synergy 

    According to the WEF, the global growth outlook has reached its lowest point in decades. Reigniting the spirit of cooperation will require greater commitment and creativity than ever before.

    Professor Tong Jiadong at Nankai University, who has served as the long-term Chinese agenda research leader for the Tianjin Summer Davos Forum, observed that the event has evolved beyond a premier global thought leadership summit into a dynamic platform facilitating international exchange and cooperation.

    Zhao Yan, chairman and general manager of Chinese firm Bloomage Biotech, has been a regular participant at the Summer Davos Forum. Over the years, the company has established a comprehensive global supply chain network across over 70 countries and regions.

    “Despite navigating complex uncertainties, the enterprise has never resorted to isolationism, but instead strives to reshape global competition rules through open innovation,” Zhao said.

    In the first five months of this year, the total volume of China’s imports and exports of goods grew 2.5 percent year on year, and the consumption enthusiasm of foreign visitors surged significantly.

    “We value our cooperation with China very much. We’re seeing more and more interest and participation coming here,” said Borge Brende, president and CEO of the WEF. “I’m relatively optimistic for the Chinese economy, both in medium term and long term.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Building an Agentic Economy

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Building an Agentic Economy

    A new wave of start-ups is emerging, built around powerful AI agents capable of autonomous decision-making, dynamic collaboration and end-to-end task execution. These agents aren’t just supporting workflows – they’re becoming the digital workforce that runs entire business functions.

    How are business models evolving when AI agents take the lead in building, managing and scaling companies?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKbV-oXaDC4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Appointments – EWC Board Selects Celeste Connors as Next East-West Center President

    Source: East-West Center

    Recognized international leader in risk management, international affairs, and development policy will head EWC’s mission starting in July

    HONOLULU (June 24, 2025) — The East-West Center Board of Governors is pleased to announce the selection of Celeste A. Connors as the institution’s next President, effective July 1. A Hawai‘i-raised leader with over 25 years of global experience in risk management, diplomacy, national security, and development policy, Ms. Connors brings a deep understanding of both international affairs and regional priorities to the role.

    Her appointment concludes an extensive search to succeed outgoing Interim President James K. Scott, the former EWC Board chair who has been serving in the presidential post temporarily since the beginning of this year. The Board selected Connors following a robust process engaging a broad range of EWC stakeholders.

    Experience across sectors

    “Ms. Connors was selected from an impressive applicant pool of talented and experienced individuals,” said EWC Board of Governors Chairman John Waihe‘e. “We feel strongly that her breadth of leadership experience across government, civil society, academia, and business sectors is exactly what the Center requires to carry our mission and legacy forward to a bright new future at this pivotal time in our institution’s proud 65-year history.”

    “I’m deeply honored and excited to lead the East-West Center team in continuing to advance regional cooperation,” said Connors. “Strategically based in the Pacific Ocean, the EWC plays a critical role in supporting US engagement in the Indo-Pacific region through convening, expert dialogue, educational exchange, and people-to-people connections. In Hawai‘i and beyond, we seek to support security and prosperity by promoting leadership and partnerships around our shared interests and values.”

    “I am delighted with the Board’s selection,” said outgoing Interim President Scott, who will be returning to a fundraising position on the EWC Foundation board. “Celeste is already a close partner to the Center, as well as being one of our adjunct experts, and I know she will devote herself to East-West Center’s continued success with the same passion for our mission that inspires our dedicated staff and community. I look forward to working with her on a seamless transition.”

    Insight and inspiration

    “The role of leading the East-West Center demands a leader with profound insight into the complex interplay of global, regional, and national dynamics—particularly across Asia and the Pacific,” said Adm. Thomas Fargo (Ret.), former commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command and current Chairman of Hawaiian Electric Industries, where Connors is a board member. “Equally important is a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures, values, and relationships that shape this region. Celeste Connors brings to this position not only these essential qualities, but also a breadth of experience and vision that will serve the Center exceptionally well.”

    “Celeste has been an energetic, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and inspirational leader who has put Hawai‘i Green Growth on the local, national, and international map. She is indeed leaving us very large shoes to fill,” added Hawai‘i Green Growth Board Chair Randy Moore, former head of the University of Hawai‘i Board of Regents and a noted educator and business executive. “On the other hand, we cannot think of a better candidate to lead the East-West Center. Celeste has developed strong contacts with leaders of Pacific Island nations, and together with her prior experience in the US Department of State and the White House, she is plugged into a network that will enable the Center to productively serve Hawaiʻi, the nation, and the world. We wish her every success.”

    About Celeste Connors

    Celeste A. Connors, who was raised in Hawai‘i, is a recognized international leader with more than 25 years of risk management and national security experience. As a former Director on both the National Security Council and the National Economic Council under both Republican and Democratic administrations, she chaired complex interagency processes and advised White House leaders on energy, trade, environment, and technology strategies. She previously gained extensive foreign policy experience while serving as a US diplomat in Saudi Arabia, Greece, Germany, and the US Mission to the United Nations, and as Foreign Policy Adviser to the Mayor of New York City.

    In recent years, Connors has led the internationally recognized center of excellence Hawaii Green Growth, where she developed policy and investment solutions to help build resilient communities. She is also co-founder of c.dots development LLC, and the Co-Chair of the Local2030 Islands Network, a group of 45 island economies focused on building a safer, more resilient future.  

    Ms. Connors has an extensive background in corporate and nonprofit governance, including serving on the boards of Hawaiian Electric Industries, the state’s primary electricity provider, and the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau. She also co-chairs the Hawai‘i Sustainability Business Forum, which brings together the CEOs of the state’s top public and private companies.

    She has served in academia as well, as a faculty lecturer and practitioner with the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), where she led a practicum program focused on risk management. In addition, she has been an Adjunct Senior Fellow with the East-West Center since 2021, when Hawai‘i Green Growth entered a formal partnership with the Center to collaborate on sustainable development initiatives.  

    Ms. Connors holds a master’s degree in Development Studies from the University of London School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) and an undergraduate degree in International Relations from Tufts University. Her husband Paul is a former diplomat and teacher, and they have a son and daughter in their teens.

    The East-West Center promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the US Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Releases Smart Monitor M9 With AI-Powered QD-OLED Display

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced its latest Smart Monitor lineup, featuring the flagship Smart Monitor M9 (M90SF model) alongside the updated Smart Monitor M8 (M80F model) and M7 (M70F model). With the introduction of QD-OLED technology to the M9 and advanced AI features across the lineup, the new offerings provide a more personalized and connected screen for work and entertainment.
     
    “The Smart Monitor series continues to evolve based on how people work, watch and play,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the introduction of QD-OLED and AI-powered enhancements, the M9 delivers a more responsive and refined screen experience — all within a single, versatile display.”
     
     
    Smart Monitor M9: OLED Picture, Intelligent Performance

     
    The Smart Monitor M9 introduces QD-OLED technology to the Smart Monitor lineup for the first time. Its 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel delivers deep contrast and vibrant color, offering a more immersive visual experience across productivity, streaming and gaming. Samsung OLED Safeguard+ helps maintain screen integrity over time with a proprietary cooling system designed to reduce the risk of burn-in. The M9 also features a Glare-Free display to minimize reflections and ensure consistent visibility and comfort — even in bright lighting conditions.
     
    The M9 is powered by AI Picture Optimizer, 4K AI Upscaling Pro and Active Voice Amplifier (AVA) Pro, which work together to enhance picture and sound quality in real time based on content and surroundings. Whether users are watching, creating or multitasking, the display adapts automatically to deliver optimized performance.
     
    The M9 also serves as a smart entertainment hub with access to popular streaming apps, Samsung TV Plus and Samsung Gaming Hub — which enables cloud-based gaming without a connected console or PC. With a 165Hz refresh rate, a 0.03ms response time and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility, the M9 supports smooth, fast-moving visuals ideal for high-performance use.
     
    The M9 also features a slim metal design that blends premium aesthetics with functional form, creating a modern look that complements any workspace.
     
    Recognizing its precise and reliable color performance, the Smart Monitor M9 has achieved Pantone Validated certification. This certification assures users that the M9 has passed the rigorous standards of testing and can replicate over 2,100 colors and more than 110 SkinTone shades from Pantone’s library. Paired with its brilliant QD-OLED display, the monitor ensures visuals appear just as content creators intended, providing confidence and clarity for any application.
     
     
    Smart Monitor M8 and M7: Versatile Displays With AI Functionality and Enhanced Connectivity

     
    The new Smart Monitor M8 and Smart Monitor M7 extend Samsung’s smart monitor experience to a broader audience, offering 32-inch 4K UHD screens with vibrant picture quality and built-in AI features. Equipped with Samsung’s advanced VA panel technology, both models deliver sharp detail and rich contrast, making them ideal for everyday productivity, streaming and much more.
     
    Both displays support AI-powered discovery tools, including Click to Search.1 These features help users explore content, retrieve information and engage with their screen more intuitively, while Tizen OS Home personalizes recommendations and makes it easier to access frequently used services and inputs.
     
    Designed for flexibility, all three models integrate with SmartThings, support Multi Control between Samsung devices and offer Multi View for side-by-side working or entertainment. With Microsoft 365 access, users can create and edit documents directly from the monitor without a PC, making the lineup a practical solution for modern work setups.
     

     
     
    Ongoing Support and Availability
    The Smart Monitor M9, M8 and M7 are available in 32-inch screen sizes and will begin rolling out to markets worldwide starting this month.2
     
    To ensure long-term usability and support, Samsung offers up to seven years of One UI Tizen upgrades for the Smart Monitor lineup, allowing users to continue benefiting from the latest features and services over time.3
     
    For more information about Samsung’s Smart Monitor lineup, please visit www.samsung.com/.
     
     
    1 Feature available in certain regions and models only.
    2 Availability of models may vary by market.
    3 Free One UI Tizen upgrades are available for Smart Monitors models released in 2023 and onward.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks with Department of Defense Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) participated in a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing to consider the nominations of Vice Admiral Charles B. Cooper II, to be Commander for United States Central Command, and Lieutenant General Alexus G. Grynkewich to be Commander for United States European Command and Supreme Allied Commander of Europe. During the hearing, Senator Tuberville and Lt. General Grynkewich discussed the general’s relationship with NATO commanders as well as the conflict in Eastern Europe. Additionally, he spoke to Vice Admiral Cooper about preventing the Houthis from obstructing trade in the Middle East.

    Read Senator Tuberville’s remarks below or on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON NATO RELATIONSHIPS:

    TUBERVILLE: “Good morning. Thanks for both of your service and moving your families around. Kinda like a coach. You know, you don’t stay very long in one spot. Admiral, it’s good to see your family here. Auburn folks. Good Alabama folks. Living Montgomery, I think.
    Right? […]

    “General, let me ask you this. What’s your relationship with the NATO commanders in the bigger countries? That we have.”

    GRYNKEWICH: “Senator, I have worked with European partners around the world over the years in a variety of coalition environments, and I know many of the leaders across all of those countries. It’s a solid relationship, sir.”

    TUBERVILLE: “How about Turkey?”

    GRYNKEWICH: “Sir, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Türkiye several times over the course of my career and have great respect for the military capabilities that they can bring to bear.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Largest military in NATO. Is that right?”

    GRYNKEWICH: “Yes, sir.”

    ON LIKELIHOOD OF UKRAINE DEFEATING RUSSIA:

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Let me ask this question. This Ukraine-Russia war has been going on for a long time. A lot of people killed. We’ve spent a lot of money. Can Ukraine win?”

    GRYNKEWICH: “Senator, I think Ukraine can win. I think anytime your own homeland is threatened, you fight with a tenacity that’s difficult for us to conceive of if we haven’t found ourselves in that same situation.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. They’ve they have absolutely fought hard. You gotta give it to them.”

    ON WHO SUPPORTS HOUTHIS:

    TUBERVILLE: “Admiral, we hadn’t talked about the Houthis. I think we’ve bombed them for 30 straight days. Is that correct?”

    COOPER: “Sir, we bombed them for 51 straight days in conjunction with Operation Rough Rider.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Have we stopped?”

    COOPER: “Sir, the president gave the military a very precise mission, which was to restore the freedom of navigation, and that mission was successfully executed. We have freedom of navigation today. We agreed [to] a ceasefire several weeks ago. Now 40 days ago. If the Houthis didn’t shoot at us, we wouldn’t shoot at them. They have not shot at us. We have not shot at them. And we have multiple examples of destroyers going back and forth through the Bab al-Mandab.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Destroyers, but what about merchant ships?”

    COOPER: “There is merchant ships flowing through the Bab al-Mandab today. If we walk back to the fall of 2023 when the Houthis started their kinetic actions, it took several months for the flow of commerce to leave the Red Sea. I would expect it’s gonna take several months for it to fully come back.”

    TUBERVILLE: “My understanding is that the Houthis are one of the strongest groups that are backed by Iran. Is that correct?”

    COOPER: “Sir, they’ve been supported with arms, people, training, ISR for the better part of 10 years. They’re well supported.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. China support’s them too?”

    COOPER: “They do.”

    TUBERVILLE: “So, do you think this is going to be an on and off project with the Houthis over the years? Or are we going to be able to stabilize it?”

    COOPER: “I think we’re now 40 days into this; the ball is in the Houthis’ court. We’re prepared for a range of actions, but I think the policies associated with the ceasefire remain in place, and we’ll just be prepared, from a military perspective, for a wide range of contingencies as is our obligation to do so.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Do we actually know who the leadership is that controls the Houthis?”

    COOPER: “We do, sir.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. […] Do we talk to them? They talk back to us? How does that work?”

    COOPER: “Communications with the Houthis is done through diplomatic channels. And Houthis are a foreign terrorist organization. We don’t have a communication via the military.”

    TUBERVILLE: “So the president, when he works and tries to calm the situation down, who does he talk to?”

    COOPER: “Sir, he uses the Envoy for the Middle East, Ambassador Steve Witkoff, who helped enable the most recent ceasefire.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. They must be some tough rascals. I mean, we bombed them for 51 days and they’re still kicking. Right?”

    COOPER: “They’re extremely well supplied by the Iranians.”

    TUBERVILLE: “They’re supplied, but what? Are they dug in?”

    COOPER: “As we’ve seen throughout the region, groups are going underground, Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis. This is a serious issue that we will have to look at into the future.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. We do make a bomb in Huntsville called ‘MOAB.’ They do a lot of damage. I think we’ve seen that in Afghanistan. We got a few left. So, maybe in the future, [if] we can’t get them to reconcile…because we’re gonna have to have full passage in the Red Sea. If we’re going to get AI going, we’re going to get supply chains going, we can’t haphazardly wonder if they’re going to sink one of our ships but thank you. Good luck to both of you. Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pre-loved tech will help to bridge digital divide under new government charter 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Pre-loved tech will help to bridge digital divide under new government charter 

    Organisations can sign up to the IT Reuse for Good charter on GOV.UK and then work with their chosen charity partner to distribute devices.

    Pre-loved tech bridging digital divide under new government charter.

    Big names like Deloitte, Vodafone and Three alongside leading charity Good Things Foundation are uniting with government to encourage organisations to donate pre-loved tech to digital excluded Brits.

    Organisations can sign up to the IT Reuse for Good charter on gov.uk from today and then work with their chosen charity partner to distribute devices.  

    The Charter encourages organisations to change how they manage and dispose of IT assets, with the aim of increasing device donations to the 1.5 million people in the United Kingdom who lack access to a basic laptop, tablet and smartphone.  

    With technology transforming essential services like healthcare access, job applications and housing, government is doubling down on commitment to improve skills and technology access for all – breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of our Plan for Change.

    Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    Britain is leading the way when it comes to technological advancements with everyday essentials such as doctor’s appointments and job applications becoming increasingly digital. But to maximise the full potential of technology, we need to bring everyone along with us on this journey.  

    This Charter represents a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the digital divide and create a more sustainable approach to technology. By working together with industry and charity partners, we’re helping more people access the digital tools they need to improve their lives while reducing harmful electronic waste.

    Research also shows that digitally excluded people face higher costs for things like home insurance, train travel and food paying up to 25% more on average than consumers who are online.  

    The charter sets out principles for organisations to adhere to including ensuring devices are securely wiped, professionally refurbished and fit for purpose so they can be provided free of charge to those who need them.

    Ryan, a single father from Essex, struggled without access to a laptop. “Job searching felt impossible,” he said. “I couldn’t keep up and felt like I was falling behind.”

    Through a donation from Vodafone’s Great British Tech Appeal to the National Device Bank, an initiative led by Good Things Foundation, Ryan received a laptop that transformed his prospects. “This laptop isn’t just a piece of equipment – it’s a lifeline,” Ryan shares. Now, he can actively search for jobs, attend online training, and build a better future.

    “I want my kids to see what’s possible with determination and the right support,” Ryan says.

    Helen Milner OBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation, said:

    Alongside the government, Vodafone, Three and Deloitte, Good Things Foundation has developed the IT Reuse for Good Charter, tackling the UK’s digital divide and e-waste crisis head-on. With 1.5 million adults lacking essential devices and 1.45 million tons of e-waste discarded yearly, we’re proud to lead the charge for a more inclusive and sustainable future.  The Charter builds on the success of our National Device Bank and will be a game-changer, unlocking thousands of devices. We have also launched a Playbook to help businesses to navigate IT reuse for good, and bake it into their organisations.

    Richard Houston, Senior Partner and CEO Deloitte UK said:

    Since 2021, we’ve donated 20,000 devices to schools and charities through our network of social impact partners. I’m incredibly proud that we have been able to help thousands of people continue education, find employment, and connect with loved ones through technology. Yet I know there is so much more that can be done. I encourage all organisations, whatever size, to consider the role you can play, and together, we can bridge the digital divide.  

    Rich Marsh, Responsible Business Director at BT Group, said:

    As well as being a leader in sustainability for more than 30 years, at BT we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that digital inclusion projects are having across the UK – supported by our networks, social tariffs and digital skills programs.  

    We warmly welcome the ‘IT Re-Use for Good’ Charter, which brings these 2 things together and gives a second life to our devices. Now we’re committing to donate even more devices, helping play our part in providing people with the tech they need in today’s digital society.

    Notes to editors

    Signatories must donate their first device within 6 months of signing the charter. Progress will be monitored by self-reporting every 6 months.  

    Digital Inclusion Action Plan documents

    Paula Coughlan, Chief People, Communications and Sustainability Officer said:

    At Currys, everything we do is to help everyone enjoy amazing technology. Within that, we’re very aware that not everyone can afford or have access to the amazing tech we sell. Through our work to date, it’s clear to see the positive, transformative power of just one digital device for a child or for a family, and how isolating not having access to the digital world really is. That’s why we were founding members of the Digital Poverty Alliance, and why we’re committed to doing everything we can to help make digital poverty a thing of the past. It’s been wonderful to work with Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) on this important new Charter and we’re proud to be signatories. The more we can do as a society, as businesses, working together with government with solutions to bridge the digital divide, the more likely we are to really make a difference.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: JOYY Achieves Top Rankings in Extel’s 2025 Asia Executive Team Survey

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JOYY Inc. (NASDAQ: JOYY) (“JOYY” or the “Company”), a global technology company, has been acknowledged as a “Most Honored Company” by Extel, formerly known as Institutional Investor Research, in its 2025 Asia Companies’ Executive Team Survey.

    JOYY earned top positions in the Overall Asia (ex-Japan/ANZ) Executive Team Small & Mid-Cap category in the internet sector across all seven evaluated areas: Best CEO, Best CFO, Best ESG, Best Board of Directors, Best IR Team, Best IR Professional, and Best IR Program. This is the seventh consecutive year that JOYY has been featured in the rankings, demonstrating excellence in the Company’s executive leadership, corporate governance and investor relations.

    Ms. Li Ting, Chairperson and CEO of JOYY, was ranked No. 1 in Best CEO in the Small & Mid-Cap Internet sector. Mr. Alex Liu, the Vice President of Finance, secured top positions in the Best CFO category. JOYY achieved the highest ranking in Best IR Program, which is defined by nine key attributes including the quality of roadshows and meetings, comprehensive business and market knowledge, and timely and granular disclosure practices.

    The Extel Asia Executive Team survey is regarded as a trusted benchmark for excellence in investor relations and corporate governance. The 2025 rankings are based on feedback from 5,437 buy-side professionals and 863 sell-side analysts. A total of 1,668 companies across 18 sectors were evaluated.

    About JOYY Inc.
    JOYY is a leading global technology company with a mission to enrich lives through technology. With a diversified product portfolio spanning live streaming, short-form videos, casual games, instant messaging, and emerging initiatives like advertising, JOYY has evolved beyond social entertainment into a multifaceted ecosystem powered by AI and data-driven technologies. Headquartered in Singapore and operating across the globe, JOYY has fostered a vibrant user community through its localized strategies. JOYY’s ADSs have been listed on the NASDAQ since November 2012.

    Investor Relations Contact
    JOYY Inc.
    Investor Relations
    Email: joyy-ir@joyy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell on American Leadership; Standing with Israel and Ukraine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, delivered remarks on the Senate floor today regarding U.S. national security interests in standing with Israel, supporting Ukraine, and investing sufficiently in our own defense. Prepared text of his speech follows:

    “When Iran’s proxies launched a full-scale war on Israel on October 7th, 2023, President Biden pledged an ‘unwavering commitment to Israel’s security’. This was the right message in the moment. But as I warned publicly at the time, Israel needed more than rhetorical solidarity.

    “Like Ukraine, Israel needed precious time, space to maneuver, and material support to defeat a shared enemy. And yet, as in Ukraine, America’s commitment has indeed wavered. Our support has not been ironclad.

    “Instead, under the previous Administration, American support was delayed, restricted, and paired with attempts to micromanage Israeli operations and even interfere with Israeli politics. And at every turn, the progressive left and isolationist right hyperventilated about the specter of so-called forever war.

    “Fortunately, Israel held its ground. Israelis weren’t enthused about a ground war in Gaza. Their leaders knew that war would be difficult. But they knew it was unavoidable so long as Hamas terrorists still refused to release its hostages. They also knew lasting security meant changing Iran’s calculus…Not just responding to attacks from its proxies. So Israel decided to turn Iran’s terrorist assets into liabilities.

    “Despite the pearl-clutching here in Washington, our ally simultaneously decapitated Hizballah and crippled Hamas. Their bold operations created a new opportunity for Lebanon to claw back its sovereignty from a terrorist state within a state.

    “Meanwhile, the collapse of the brutal Assad regime in Syria brought down a Russian vassal and Iran’s favorite corridor of weapons and terrorist finance. These are the circumstances President Trump inherited. What to do with them has been the subject of some debate. Some of his advisors and supporters came with Obama-Biden-era talking points, ready to urge him to continue his predecessor’s policy of constraining Israel. Some had argued publicly that America had no vital or existential interests in the Middle East or claimed the region was a distraction from other priorities. They warned of forever war. Some seemed to push for nuclear negotiations with parameters eerily similar to the nuclear deal he withdrew from during his first term. They even proposed Iran could keep enriching uranium, until the President rightly quashed that idea.

    “These mixed messages emboldened Iran and its proxies. After all, why give up if Administration officials saw the Middle East as little more than a distraction?…or if they seem as fearful of restoring deterrence as the previous guys? So Hamas kept holding hostages. The Houthis kept targeting Israel and Red Sea commerce. And the Islamic Republic kept marching toward a nuclear weapon. And in response, Israel took the next logical step to restore deterrence.

    “Once again, innovative and decisive strikes destroyed Iran’s air defenses and imposed immediate costs on Tehran. And leaders from across Israel’s politics stood united behind the daring operations. But here in America, the same restrainers, anti-Israel progressives, and self-proclaimed realists warned again of regional conflagration if the President intervened alongside – or even supported – Israel’s strikes.

    “The President’s own Director of National Intelligence traveled to Hiroshima to record a bizarre video message – not as a warning against Tehran’s nuclear ambitions but, presumably, against American or Israeli operations to blunt them.

    “Fortunately, the President rejected the pleas of appeasers and isolationists. The strikes he ordered dealt a massive blow to Iran’s nuclear program, bolstered American credibility, and strengthened U.S. and Israeli leverage to end Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and its support for terrorism for good.

    “Thanks to Israel’s heroic efforts for more than a year and a half, Iran’s ability to threaten regional stability is massively degraded. Not since before the Islamic revolution has there been such an opportunity for America, Israel, and our Arab partners to reset regional dynamics on such favorable terms. Achieving it has required no large-scale deployment of U.S. ground forces. It required only supporting our friends. Israel is a close ally and a strategic asset. Not a liability. And the strategic return on our investment in assisting Israel is incalculable.

    “Standing with our Israeli friends offers a powerful lesson about American leadership, the value of alliances and partnerships, and the real nature of peace through strength. And this lesson extends far beyond the Middle East. If America refuses to apply it elsewhere – like Ukraine – we do so at grave risk to our own interests. But that’s exactly what some in Washington seem to be doing. Congress recently learned that a senior DoD official conducted a review of DoD security assistance efforts and concluded that the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), among other programs, was wasteful. This is a Republican Administration panning a program created by a Republican Congress in 2015 to counter President Obama’s toothless response to Russia’s initial invasion of Ukraine. I’d like to see the analysis behind the Administration’s decision to zero out USAI in its FY26 request. I’d like to hear them try to explain away the massive return on investment of America’s security assistance to Ukraine and the precious lessons we’ve learned from our Ukrainian partners.

    “The Secretary of the Army has rightly called Ukraine ‘the Silicon Valley of warfare’. Do his colleagues at the Pentagon think this assessment is wrong, or do they just not think access to the cutting edge of modern combat is valuable? Here’s the truth: USAI and other security assistance efforts have helped us measurably address shortcomings in strategy, capabilities, and production capacity that would have gone ignored until it was too late.

    “It’s an inconvenient reality for isolationists and restrainers, but – for a tiny percent of our defense budget – we helped a smaller military resist invasion by a vastly larger one and degrade a major U.S. adversary.

    “As with Israel, Ukraine is fighting an adversary of the United States. Our support does not entangle us in a far-off foreign conflict. For Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea, America is the main enemy – the great Satan. If these adversaries beat our friends, the threat to America become a thousand times greater. We should be grateful for friends so willing to defend our collective interests against common foes.

    “Partnership with Ukraine is teaching us what modern warfare could mean for U.S. forces when they do face direct conflict. It has tested our assumptions about munitions inventories, expenditure rates, electronic warfare, and the duration of conflict. Without Ukraine’s experience with U.S. weapons, we would have been surprised to find some advanced systems quickly rendered inoperable on future battlefields.

    “The money we invest in USAI on weapons for Ukraine expands our own production capacity in the process and will improve the quality of our own munitions. Supplemental appropriations on Ukraine and Israel, in turn, backfill our own stocks with brand-new capabilities – not just 155mm rounds, but air defenses and long-range fires, with specific investment in solid rocket motors. These investments help us prepare for conflict in the Indo-Pacific. And production would be slower in the absence of our partnership with Ukraine. Not doing more to address our growing defense needs isn’t a failure of foresight. It’s a failure of political will. Everyone wants to see an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine. But the price of peace matters. If we want enduring stability in Europe, we can’t fall for an illusory peace.

    “We should know enough history not to dismiss this as merely ‘a quarrel in a faraway country, between two people of whom we know nothing’. It’s a major war of conquest in Europe…The most significant since the days of Nazi Germany…And allies and adversaries half a world away are watching it closely for clues about America’s resolve. Certainly, Europe’s deepening commitments to collective defense will make real peace more enforceable. The President’s insistence has driven much of this progress; Putin’s brutality has reinforced it.

    “Since 2022, our European NATO allies have made historic investments in defense – often buying American. And many are preparing to make even larger commitments at this week’s NATO Summit. This is good news. But we can’t expect allies to continue signing up for 3.5% and 5% commitments if America insists on falling further behind. Likewise, we can’t expect Putin to end his aggression if he thinks America’s abandonment of Ukraine is only a matter of time. And we can’t expect anyone to take America’s threats and commitments seriously if we’re content to let our own strength atrophy.

    “A base budget request that cuts defense spending in real terms doesn’t show Moscow we’re serious – let alone Beijing. Leading from behind would be bad enough, but this is just plain falling behind. The strongest deterrence is denying an adversary’s objectives through military means. Israel is restoring this deterrence in the Middle East. Ukraine is achieving it by holding its own against Russia. But it needs help.

    “Recently, I’ve asked Administration officials simple questions, like: Who is the aggressor in this conflict? The answer is obvious. But a second, equally simple question seems to trip them up: Who do we want to win?

    “The President made the right call to stand with Israel. I hope he’ll also decide to stand with Ukraine, prevent Russian victory, and start reversing a dangerous, downward trend in our defense budgets. I hope he’ll recognize Russia’s attempt to ‘tap him along’ for what it is. Putin is getting mixed messages from Washington. He thinks he has time. He believes the West is weak and divided. But the President – at very little cost – can shatter this illusion. It’s time to impose sanctions, raise the price of Russia’s aggression, redouble security assistance to Ukraine, and drive the Kremlin to seek peace. It’s time for deterrence through denial.

    “There’s no surer path to just and enduring peace…No better way to demonstrate that peace through strength actually means something…No clearer sign to allies and adversaries watching closely from the Western Hemisphere to the Indo-Pacific that America still has the will to lead.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tampa-based companies signs with IMAGE program

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    TAMPA, Fla. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Tampa has signed an ICE Mutual Agreement Between Government and Employers, or IMAGE, program agreement with Ruri Software Technologies and Famous Technologies, Inc., as part of a voluntary collaborative program with America’s business community.

    These privately owned companies entered into IMAGE agreements as part of a mutually beneficial initiative that provides businesses enhanced security and a more stable workforce while minimizing the likelihood of hiring unauthorized workers. This Department of Homeland Security E-Verify employment eligibility program is free to employers and enables them to verify new hires’ eligibility to work in the U.S. Its internet-based system is available throughout the nation and provides an automated link to the Social Security Administration’s database and DHS immigration records.

    “These partnerships with businesses in our communities are an integral part of our commitment to providing national security, as well as the security of employees and customers,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge John Condon. “They are leading by example in how a legal workforce is a key component of responsible corporate citizenship.”

    As part of these agreements, Ruri Software Technologies and Famous Technologies have pledged to maintain secure and stable workforces and curtail the employment of unauthorized workers through outreach and education.

    To qualify for IMAGE certification, companies must:

    • Complete the IMAGE Self-Assessment Questionnaire
    • Enroll in the E-Verify program within 60 days
    • Establish a written hiring and employment eligibility verification policy that includes internal Form I-9 audits at least once per year
    • Submit to a Form I-9 inspection

    Ruri Software Technologies is a rapidly growing IT consulting company providing complete life cycle of software solutions to its clientele. Its companion company, Famous Technologies Inc., is also a rapidly expanding IT consulting firm that provides complete life cycle software solutions in a variety of domains across the U.S. Their basic processes aim to provide innovative, technology-enabled solutions that help provide their customers with leading products and services that endeavor to be on the cutting edge of technology.

    “We are proud to align ourselves with the values and standards that IMAGE represents, and we look forward to upholding the integrity and responsibility that comes with this designation,” said Ruri Software technologies director of operations Ram Arikatlal. “It is an honor to be part of this important partnership committed to fostering a lawful workforce while promoting best hiring practices.”

    Companies interested in more information about the IMAGE program can call 813-357-7137 or visit ICE.gov/image.

    To learn more about HSI Tampa, follow us on X at @HSITampa.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s vice premier urges high-quality development of manufacturing sector, workplace safety

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

    China’s vice premier urges high-quality development of manufacturing sector, workplace safety

    TAIYUAN, June 24 — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has called for efforts to promote the high-quality development of the manufacturing industry and continuously strengthen workplace safety.

    Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an inspection tour in north China’s Shanxi Province which began on Sunday and ended on Tuesday.

    The high-quality development of the manufacturing sector is a top priority in achieving high-quality economic growth, Zhang said, noting that efforts should be made to advance technological innovation and accelerate the establishment of a modern industrial system with the advanced manufacturing industry as its backbone.

    Zhang also called for the promotion of the high-end, digital, green transformation of the manufacturing industry.

    Work should be done to develop green and low-carbon industries, enhance the clean and efficient utilization of coal, and continuously promote the high-quality development of such industries as coal-to-oil and coal-to-gas production, fine chemicals, and new materials.

    The vice premier also urged strengthened workplace safety in coal mines, a crackdown on various acts of illegal production in mines, and the strict implementation of accountability rules for workplace safety.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads New Hampshire Delegation Letter Urging Labor Department to Reverse Decision to Close Manchester Job Corps Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), are urging U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to reverse the DOL’s decision to close Job Corps Centers nationwide, including the New Hampshire Job Corps Center in Manchester. The Manchester Job Corps Center, which Shaheen helped establish in 2013, serves up to 268 residential and 32 nonresidential students, providing vocational training, pathways to a high school diploma and college certifications and degrees through partnerships with Manchester Community College, Nashua Community College and the New Hampshire Technical Institute.

    In part the delegation wrote, “The New Hampshire Job Corps Center is essential to the state’s economy with an estimated economic impact of more than $21 million per year. The center’s closure would have a grave and lasting impact on the state’s economic growth and workforce pipeline.”

    The delegation continued, “Given the vital role that Job Corps plays in New Hampshire and throughout the country, we respectfully urge you to reconsider your pause of Job Corps operations and cease efforts to eliminate the program. We have a shared interest in improving outcomes for Job Corps students, prioritizing their safety, and preventing any waste that may exist in the Job Corps program, and we urge you to work with Congress to advance these goals.”

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    Last week, Shaheen joined a bipartisan group of Appropriations Committee members in sending a letter to Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, urging the DOL to reverse its decision to begin the closure of Job Corps Centers nationwide.

    Senator Shaheen has long championed funding to support the Manchester Job Corps Center. In 2013, Shaheen built on fifteen years of bipartisan work to break ground on the Manchester Job Corps Center in collaboration with federal and local officials. Job Corps students and graduates have gone on to work in high-need industries across New Hampshire, including advanced manufacturing and other businesses critical to the defense industrial base.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Delegation Sends Letter Urging Labor Department to Reverse Decision to Close Manchester Job Corps Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), are urging U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to reverse the DOL’s decision to close Job Corps Centers nationwide, including the New Hampshire Job Corps Center in Manchester. The Manchester Job Corps Center, which Shaheen helped establish in 2013, serves up to 268 residential and 32 nonresidential students, providing vocational training, pathways to a high school diploma and college certifications and degrees through partnerships with Manchester Community College, Nashua Community College and the New Hampshire Technical Institute.

    In part the delegation wrote, “The New Hampshire Job Corps Center is essential to the state’s economy with an estimated economic impact of more than $21 million per year. The center’s closure would have a grave and lasting impact on the state’s economic growth and workforce pipeline.”

    The delegation continued, “Given the vital role that Job Corps plays in New Hampshire and throughout the country, we respectfully urge you to reconsider your pause of Job Corps operations and cease efforts to eliminate the program. We have a shared interest in improving outcomes for Job Corps students, prioritizing their safety, and preventing any waste that may exist in the Job Corps program, and we urge you to work with Congress to advance these goals.”

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    Last week, Shaheen joined a bipartisan group of Appropriations Committee members in sending a letter to Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, urging the DOL to reverse its decision to begin the closure of Job Corps Centers nationwide.

    Senator Shaheen has long championed funding to support the Manchester Job Corps Center. In 2013, Shaheen built on fifteen years of bipartisan work to break ground on the Manchester Job Corps Center in collaboration with federal and local officials. Job Corps students and graduates have gone on to work in high-need industries across New Hampshire, including advanced manufacturing and other businesses critical to the defense industrial base.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: DRML Miner Unveils Zero-Cost XRP Cloud Mining Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, UK, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DRML Miner, a global leader in eco-conscious cryptocurrency mining, has officially launched its highly anticipated zero-cost XRP cloud mining platform, ushering in a new era of accessible, automated, and AI-enhanced digital asset earnings. Tailored for both seasoned investors and crypto newcomers, the platform provides users with daily XRP rewards, a $10 signup bonus, and the opportunity to grow passive income without any upfront hardware costs or technical know-how.

    This launch comes at a pivotal moment, with XRP currently in a price consolidation phase, offering a unique chance for investors to generate consistent returns while traditional markets remain uncertain.

    What Sets DRML Miner’s XRP Cloud Mining Apart

    With traditional mining often plagued by high costs and complex setups, DRML Miner breaks down these barriers through a user-friendly, cloud-based solution. Users simply register, select a mining contract, and start earning—no rigs, no maintenance, no hassle.

    Key features of the new XRP mining contracts include:

    • AI-Powered Yield Optimization: Smart allocation of hashrate ensures optimal returns, even during stagnant market conditions.
    • Daily XRP Payouts: Predictable earnings improve liquidity and minimize exposure to price volatility.
    • 100% Remote Participation: Start mining instantly from anywhere in the world.
    • Principal Security: All contracts guarantee a full return of principal at expiration.

    A Strategic Entry Point for XRP Investors

    According to the DRML Miner team, the launch of XRP-only mining contracts was strategically timed to coincide with the asset’s ongoing consolidation, allowing users to profit regardless of short-term price swings.

    “We see XRP’s current price range not as a plateau, but as potential,” said the CEO of DRML Miner. “Our new mining contracts unlock the value of XRP in a stable, low-risk, and fully automated way.”

    Real Returns Backed by Real Results

    The platform offers a range of contract tiers designed to suit various investment preferences. Verified performance metrics include:

    • 2-Day Plan: +7.0% return
    • 5-Day Plan: +1.3% return
    • 15-Day Plan: +1.45% return
    • 30-Day Plan: +1.55% return

    These figures reflect historical averages and highlight the consistency and transparency of DRML Miner’s operations.

    About DRML Miner

    Founded in 2018 and legally registered in the UK, DRML Miner operates more than 120 sustainable mining farms powered by renewable energy. With over 7 million users globally, the platform is committed to making crypto mining accessible, eco-friendly, and profitable for all.

    Whether you’re a long-term XRP holder or exploring crypto for the first time, DRML Miner offers a secure, smart, and sustainable way to earn.

    Start mining XRP today at https://drmlminers.com

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Navigating Utility-Scale Energy Procurement Just Got Easier

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    A New NREL Tool Can Help Public and Private Energy Buyers Make Informed, Cost-Effective Decisions

    For commercial, industrial, academic, and public-sector organizations, navigating large-scale electricity procurement has never been more complex—or more critical.

    Developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the Procurement Analysis Tool (PAT) can help energy buyers cut through the complexity with data-driven insights tailored to their needs.

    PAT is a web-based platform that supports early-stage planning and screening for off-site electricity procurement. The free tool empowers users to explore and compare utility-scale energy options across the United States. With its guided interface, users don’t need to be energy experts to get started.

    With NREL’s new Procurement Analysis Tool, energy buyers can explore customized, utility-scale electricity options. Graphic by NREL

    “Our goal with PAT is to make it easy for organizations to understand their options—whether they’re new to the process or have years of experience,” said NREL analyst Jeff Cook, who co-led the development of the tool. “Its easy-to-use interface walks users through a series of questions and identifies actionable, cost-informed energy procurement strategies that reflect their operational needs and priorities.”

    PAT’s key features include:

    • Scenario planning: Run simulations across multiple sites to compare energy solutions.
    • Procurement options: Explore procurement options based on preferred load-serving entities.
    • Technology insights: Access data on energy technologies and resource regions. PAT currently includes renewable energy technologies but has the ability to accommodate any energy technology in the future.
    • Personalized results: Fine-tune your energy procurement options with filter questions to match your specific goals.
    • Downloadable resources: Export resources with technology details for your next steps.

    A Planning Edge for Energy Buyers Across the Market

    Large-scale electricity procurement can be daunting. For many organizations—especially local governments, public institutions, and commercial buyers—without in-house expertise or technical support, it can be difficult to understand which options are available regionally, what technologies make sense locally, and how different procurement strategies compare.

    “While a variety of mature tools are available for analyzing on-site energy options, there are very few tools available to evaluate off-site procurement options,” said NREL analyst Sushmita Jena, who co-led the development of the tool. “We built PAT not only to fill this gap but also to be as user-friendly as possible—ensuring it’s easy to understand and navigate.”

    Through a secure, self-service interface, users enter basic information about their facilities and energy use, along with a few key preferences. In return, the tool delivers customized recommendations based on real-world market data and user-specific priorities.

    Following its beta release in 2022, the NREL team improved PAT’s features based on broad stakeholder input, and the tool is already used by 180+ early adopters across counties, cities, and corporations. Its flexible design supports a wide range of potential users, including:

    • Commercial and industrial buyers
    • Federal, state, and local governments
    • Colleges, universities, and campuses 
    • Electric service providers
    • Regulators and public utility commissions.

    Technical Foundation, Practical Results

    PAT integrates several of NREL’s best-in-class datasets and modeling platforms, including the Annual Technology Baseline, Renewable Energy Supply Curves, Cambium, and the System Advisor Model. These tools provide the backbone for PAT’s regional cost estimates, resource assessments, and performance modeling.

    With this technical foundation, PAT enables users to explore practical questions such as:

    • What energy procurement options are available in my region?

      PAT shows options like power purchase agreements (PPAs) or utility programs available in a user’s location based on utility service areas and market structure.

    • How do energy procurement options align with my objectives?

      The tool matches energy options to user priorities such as cost, targets, and technology preferences.

    • How do different procurement strategies compare in cost and impact?

      The tool compares costs across technologies and procurement models to support informed decisions.

    Try PAT Today—and Attend an Upcoming Webinar To Learn More

    PAT is ready to help organizations take their first step toward informed electricity procurement. Visit the PAT website and create a free account to get started.

    Register now

    A free NREL webinar at 10 a.m. MT on July 22, 2025, will provide an overview of PAT’s features, walk through common use cases, and offer live Q&A with the development team.

    Learn more about NREL’s energy analysis research, and sign up for NREL’s energy analysis newsletter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Video games can help trans players feel seen and safe. It all starts with design

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Toups Dugas, Associate Professor of Human-Centred Computing, Monash University

    Shano Liang

    There is a comfort in finding and being yourself. Video games offer opportunities for this comfort. They allow people to exist in safe spaces, to develop community, and to explore the self – as well as the potential self.

    Our recently published study explores how video games can elicit feelings of gender euphoria for transgender people. This could be a result of a player developing a connection with a character they feel represented by. Or, they may simply appreciate the experience of a world in which they exist as their actual gender.

    Far from just providing an escape, our research shows video games can play a major role in fostering inclusion for trans people, and in promoting the joy of being trans.

    Why gender euphoria matters

    Much of the discourse around transgender and gender diverse identities is damage-centred. People have come to understand transness through a medicalised lens that emphasises gender dysphoria.

    Gender “dysphoria” refers to a person’s feelings of disconnection and dissatisfaction with their experience of gender, whether it’s their body, how others treat them, or how they present themselves to the world. For further reading, we recommend The Gender Dysphoria Bible (an online community resource), or Susan Stryker’s book Transgender History.

    Gender “euphoria” refers to feelings of excitement, completeness and affirmation that come when someone truly experiences their gender identity. For cisgender people, gender euphoria is often unremarkable. But for transgender people, discovering this feeling – especially in a hostile world – can be profound and lifesaving.

    In Cyberpunk 2077, Claire’s car interior displays the trans pride flag, signalling to the player that her identity is not a secret, nor a source of shame.
    Michelle Cormier/Monash University, CC BY-SA

    While gender “euphoria” is an old term used by the trans community to understand the potential for happiness, researchers have only recently begun studying it.

    As a group of longtime gamers and trans people, we knew of many games that offered this experience to us. And as researchers and game designers, we had the tools to tease apart these games to understand what makes them meaningful.

    Our study contributes language and a framework for analysing gender euphoria in video games. We hope it will help with developing games that are more inclusive and meaningful for trans players.

    A reflexive thematic analysis

    We used a qualitative research method called reflexive thematic analysis, which involves drawing from one’s own experiences as a source of data that frames the analysis.

    We developed a list of games that were known for trans themes, and/or authored by trans designers, and/or which we had personally found comfort in playing. The list included both indie and mainstream games, such as Cyberpunk 2077, Anna Anthropy’s dys4ia, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Celeste.

    While analysing the games, we looked at the art, narratives, choices offered to players, and how characters were represented.

    We also identified various “themes” relating to trans experiences which were common among the games. We organised these themes into the categories of design, dynamics and experiences, building on prior design theory.

    A three-pronged framework

    Design elements are what the game maker creates, such as the main story, or how you can manipulate a character. Certain games can be designed in a way that normalises transgender people, such as by offering a range of gender expressions for players, or by allowing trans identity disclosure during play.

    In the game Celeste, the trans pride flag behind Madeline’s computer, and the pill bottle beside her bed, are intentional design choices that help the player understand Madeline’s identity.
    Michelle Cormier/Monash University, CC BY-SA

    The dynamics of a game refer to how it unfolds as a result of the design and players’ decisions. Dynamics, for instance, might address how players come to discover a trans character, or how they might encounter pain and healing through the story.

    And experiences are the emotions players feel as a result of playing, such as the excitement of finishing a level, or sadness over the loss of a beloved character. For trans players, gender euphoric experiences centre on the self and how it relates to the broader world.

    Although it has some issues with trans representation, the game Cyberpunk 2077 is a good example for understanding how we sorted our themes into these three categories.

    The character Claire Russel is designed as a woman street racer, whose trans identity is not made explicit. The player’s interactions with Claire create certain dynamics, after which her character confides she is transgender. This offers the player the experience of having comfortable interactions with a transgender character, and of understanding how the character relates to the larger game world.

    During an emotionally charged scene, Claire speaks candidly to the player about her past.
    Michelle Cormier/Monash University, CC BY-SA

    Unexpectedly, we found expressions of pain (including gender dysphoria) were an important aspect of some of the trans-inclusive games we analysed.

    The games created gender euphoric experiences for players by acknowledging the painful parts of the transgender experience, and then providing opportunities to resolve or live through them.

    Moving towards trans-inclusivity

    Of course, there is more to do. While our reflexive analysis centred trans-femme experiences, there is a range of gender identities out there. More work is needed to see what other designs, dynamics and experiences should be on offer for trans players.

    Gender euphoria is a salve to the unnecessary pain the world brings to trans people. It is therefore a worthy design goal – not just in video games, but in all kinds of interactive systems.

    If we want trans joy in the world, we will have to design for it.

    Phoebe Toups Dugas is affiliated with Monash University and is undertaking volunteer work with Transgender Victoria.

    Michelle Cormier is affiliated with Monash University and is managing a community project for Transgender Victoria as a volunteer.

    – ref. Video games can help trans players feel seen and safe. It all starts with design – https://theconversation.com/video-games-can-help-trans-players-feel-seen-and-safe-it-all-starts-with-design-257901

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business, delivering on the Plan for Change.

    UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Strategy developed in partnership with business, marking a new era of collaboration between government and high growth industries.
    • New Industrial Strategy to unlock billions in investment and support 1.1 million new well-paid jobs over the next decade. *New Global Talent Taskforce and £54m fund will attract world-class researchers, top talent and their teams to the UK.
    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%.

    The plan focuses on 8 high growth sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services and Life Sciences, where there is potential for faster growth.

    The modern Industrial Strategy unveiled today, Monday 23 June, sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business.

    It includes targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. The includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce. The Taskforce and a £54m Global Talent Fund will support top talent to relocate to the UK.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations, removing burdens on businesses as well as accelerating house building. 

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more.

    • Upskilling the nation with an extra £1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29, and delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses in relevant skills funded by the Growth and Skills Levy and skills packages targeted at defence digital and engineering.

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs. 

    Five sector plans have been published in tandem:

    Advanced Manufacturing

    Backing the Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    Clean Energy Industries

    Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    Creative Industries

    Maximizing the value of the UK’s Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    Digital and Technologies

    Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    Professional and Business Services

    Ensuring the UK’s Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long-term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Regarding the launch of the New Industrial Strategy, British Ambassador to Chile, Louise de Sousa, said:

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy is our ten-year plan to strengthen infrastructure, reduce costs for businesses and simplify regulation.

    With a highly skilled workforce and unrivalled global business connectivity, the UK provides an ideal location to scale, invest and grow business, by accessing the G7’s lowest corporation tax and a generous R&D tax.

    This being and internation strategy from the start, the plan will provide local businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators the stability and ease needed to make long-term investment decisions, which, in turn will help strengthening the already strong economic ties between UK and Chile.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on the UK Government’s Plan for Change.

    Further information

    If you want to know more about this matter, please contact the Communications Office.

    For more information about the activities of the British Embassy in Santiago, follow us on:

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. to Expand Southwest Presence and Enter Texas by Acquisition of Guaranty Bancshares, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont. and MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (“Glacier” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GBCI) and Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. (“Guaranty”) (NYSE: GNTY), the bank holding company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A., a leading community bank headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Texas, today jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement, pursuant to which Glacier will acquire Guaranty in an all-stock transaction. The acquisition marks Glacier’s 27th bank acquisition since 2000 and its 13th announced transaction in the past 10 years. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty had total assets of $3.2 billion, total gross loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    The boards of Glacier and Guaranty unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, Guaranty shareholder approval, and other customary conditions of closing. The definitive agreement provides that upon closing of the transaction, Guaranty shareholders are to receive 1.0000 share of Glacier stock for each Guaranty share (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances). Based on the closing price of $41.58 for Glacier shares on June 23, 2025, the transaction would result in aggregate consideration of $476.2 million (inclusive of the value to Guaranty stock options) and value of $41.58 per Guaranty share. Upon closing of the transaction, which is anticipated to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025, Guaranty Bank & Trust will operate as a new banking division under the name “Guaranty Bank & Trust, Division of Glacier Bank,” representing Glacier’s 18th separate bank division.

    “We are thrilled to add Guaranty Bank & Trust to the Glacier family of banks as a new banking Division,” said Randy Chesler, Glacier’s President and CEO. “This is a compelling opportunity to further expand our presence in the Southwest. Guaranty fits strategically and culturally within the unique Glacier business model and will allow us to enter a complementary state with an exceptional demographic profile, strong growth prospects, and a business-friendly operating environment. The Texas economy is estimated to be worth $2.7 trillion, and if Texas were an independent country, its economy would be the 8th largest in the world.” Chesler also noted that “This acquisition continues our long history of consistently adding high quality community banks to our proven banking model and we are very enthusiastic about the future opportunities this partnership will provide.”

    “Guaranty Bank & Trust has a 100+ year history of doing business in the State of Texas, and we are pleased to find a partner that emphasizes the relationship banking model that has been core to our success over many decades and through many business cycles,” said Ty Abston, Guaranty’s Chairman and CEO. “The opportunity to join Glacier Bancorp, which is a family of community banks that collectively share our banking philosophy, culture and character, was a perfect opportunity to position Guaranty Bank & Trust for the future. We will continue to grow and invest in our communities and our customers will be dealing with the same familiar faces, led by the same management team, in each of our markets. This partnership gives Guaranty added strength, with the support of a larger balance sheet and the resources to invest in the latest technologies and products to serve our existing and future customers. We are excited to join the Glacier family of banks and look forward to the opportunities and benefits this combination will bring to our clients, employees, communities and shareholders.”

    Glacier management will review additional information regarding the transaction on a conference call beginning at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

    Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIdfefa202793d4cf9b9b8d5068cef9318

    To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n3vugmow

    If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived on our website, www.glacierbancorp.com.

    A slide presentation to accompany management’s commentary may be accessed from Glacier’s June 24, 2025, Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or at https://www.glacierbancorp.com/news-market-information/annual-reports-presentations.

    Glacier was advised in the transaction by Stephens Inc. as financial advisor and Miller Nash LLP as legal counsel. Guaranty was advised by Keefe Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company as financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP as legal counsel.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).
    Visit Glacier’s website at www.glacierbancorp.com.

    About Guaranty Bancshares

    Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. is the parent company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A. and has 33 banking locations across 26 Texas communities located within the East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Central Texas regions of the state. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. had total assets of $3.2 billion, total loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    Visit Guaranty’s website at www.gnty.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “estimate,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the expected closing of the transaction and its timing and the potential benefits of the business combination transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts regarding either company or the proposed combination of the companies. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected, including but not limited to the following: risks that the proposed merger transaction will not close when expected or at all because required regulatory, shareholder or other approvals or conditions to closing are delayed or not received or satisfied on a timely basis or at all; risks that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Glacier and Guaranty operate; uncertainties regarding the ability of Glacier Bank and Guaranty Bank & Trust to promptly and effectively integrate their businesses, including into Glacier Bank’s existing division structure; changes in business and operational strategies that may occur between signing and closing; uncertainties regarding the reaction to the proposed transaction of the companies’ respective customers, employees, and contractual counterparties; and risks relating to the diversion of management time on merger-related issues. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Glacier undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report. For more information, see the risk factors described in Glacier’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC.

    Important Information and Where You Can Find It

    This communication relates to the proposed merger transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval.

    In connection with the proposed merger transaction, Glacier expects to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include a Preliminary Proxy Statement of Guaranty and a Preliminary Prospectus of Glacier, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Guaranty will mail a Definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or for any other document that Glacier or Guaranty may file with the SEC and send to Guaranty’s shareholders in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Shareholders of Guaranty are urged to read carefully the Registration Statement and accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus regarding the proposed merger transaction when it becomes available and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information.

    Free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement, as well as other filings containing information about Glacier, Guaranty, and the proposed transaction, may be obtained at the SEC’s Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). You will also be able to obtain these documents, free of charge, from Glacier at www.glacierbancorp.com under the tab “SEC Filings” and in the “Investors” section of GNTY’s website, www.gnty.com, under the heading “Financial Information – SEC Filings” or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Glacier at: Glacier Bancorp, Inc., 49 Commons Loop, Kalispell, Montana 59901, ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (406) 751-7706 or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Guaranty at: Guaranty Bancshares, Inc., 16475 Dallas Parkway, Suite 600, Addison, Texas 75001 ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (888) 572,9881.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    GBCI and GNTY and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of GNTY in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of GBCI is set forth in the proxy statement for GBCI’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 12, 2025. Information about the directors and executive officers of GNTY is set forth in the proxy statement for Guaranty’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 31, 2025. Additional information regarding the interests of those participants and other persons who may be deemed participants may be obtained by reading the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement and other relevant documents regarding the proposed merger transaction filed with the SEC when they become available. Copies of these documents may be obtained free of charge from the sources described above.

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. to Expand Southwest Presence and Enter Texas by Acquisition of Guaranty Bancshares, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont. and MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (“Glacier” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GBCI) and Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. (“Guaranty”) (NYSE: GNTY), the bank holding company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A., a leading community bank headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Texas, today jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement, pursuant to which Glacier will acquire Guaranty in an all-stock transaction. The acquisition marks Glacier’s 27th bank acquisition since 2000 and its 13th announced transaction in the past 10 years. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty had total assets of $3.2 billion, total gross loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    The boards of Glacier and Guaranty unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, Guaranty shareholder approval, and other customary conditions of closing. The definitive agreement provides that upon closing of the transaction, Guaranty shareholders are to receive 1.0000 share of Glacier stock for each Guaranty share (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances). Based on the closing price of $41.58 for Glacier shares on June 23, 2025, the transaction would result in aggregate consideration of $476.2 million (inclusive of the value to Guaranty stock options) and value of $41.58 per Guaranty share. Upon closing of the transaction, which is anticipated to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025, Guaranty Bank & Trust will operate as a new banking division under the name “Guaranty Bank & Trust, Division of Glacier Bank,” representing Glacier’s 18th separate bank division.

    “We are thrilled to add Guaranty Bank & Trust to the Glacier family of banks as a new banking Division,” said Randy Chesler, Glacier’s President and CEO. “This is a compelling opportunity to further expand our presence in the Southwest. Guaranty fits strategically and culturally within the unique Glacier business model and will allow us to enter a complementary state with an exceptional demographic profile, strong growth prospects, and a business-friendly operating environment. The Texas economy is estimated to be worth $2.7 trillion, and if Texas were an independent country, its economy would be the 8th largest in the world.” Chesler also noted that “This acquisition continues our long history of consistently adding high quality community banks to our proven banking model and we are very enthusiastic about the future opportunities this partnership will provide.”

    “Guaranty Bank & Trust has a 100+ year history of doing business in the State of Texas, and we are pleased to find a partner that emphasizes the relationship banking model that has been core to our success over many decades and through many business cycles,” said Ty Abston, Guaranty’s Chairman and CEO. “The opportunity to join Glacier Bancorp, which is a family of community banks that collectively share our banking philosophy, culture and character, was a perfect opportunity to position Guaranty Bank & Trust for the future. We will continue to grow and invest in our communities and our customers will be dealing with the same familiar faces, led by the same management team, in each of our markets. This partnership gives Guaranty added strength, with the support of a larger balance sheet and the resources to invest in the latest technologies and products to serve our existing and future customers. We are excited to join the Glacier family of banks and look forward to the opportunities and benefits this combination will bring to our clients, employees, communities and shareholders.”

    Glacier management will review additional information regarding the transaction on a conference call beginning at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

    Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIdfefa202793d4cf9b9b8d5068cef9318

    To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n3vugmow

    If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived on our website, www.glacierbancorp.com.

    A slide presentation to accompany management’s commentary may be accessed from Glacier’s June 24, 2025, Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or at https://www.glacierbancorp.com/news-market-information/annual-reports-presentations.

    Glacier was advised in the transaction by Stephens Inc. as financial advisor and Miller Nash LLP as legal counsel. Guaranty was advised by Keefe Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company as financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP as legal counsel.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).
    Visit Glacier’s website at www.glacierbancorp.com.

    About Guaranty Bancshares

    Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. is the parent company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A. and has 33 banking locations across 26 Texas communities located within the East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Central Texas regions of the state. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. had total assets of $3.2 billion, total loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    Visit Guaranty’s website at www.gnty.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “estimate,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the expected closing of the transaction and its timing and the potential benefits of the business combination transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts regarding either company or the proposed combination of the companies. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected, including but not limited to the following: risks that the proposed merger transaction will not close when expected or at all because required regulatory, shareholder or other approvals or conditions to closing are delayed or not received or satisfied on a timely basis or at all; risks that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Glacier and Guaranty operate; uncertainties regarding the ability of Glacier Bank and Guaranty Bank & Trust to promptly and effectively integrate their businesses, including into Glacier Bank’s existing division structure; changes in business and operational strategies that may occur between signing and closing; uncertainties regarding the reaction to the proposed transaction of the companies’ respective customers, employees, and contractual counterparties; and risks relating to the diversion of management time on merger-related issues. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Glacier undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report. For more information, see the risk factors described in Glacier’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC.

    Important Information and Where You Can Find It

    This communication relates to the proposed merger transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval.

    In connection with the proposed merger transaction, Glacier expects to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include a Preliminary Proxy Statement of Guaranty and a Preliminary Prospectus of Glacier, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Guaranty will mail a Definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or for any other document that Glacier or Guaranty may file with the SEC and send to Guaranty’s shareholders in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Shareholders of Guaranty are urged to read carefully the Registration Statement and accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus regarding the proposed merger transaction when it becomes available and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information.

    Free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement, as well as other filings containing information about Glacier, Guaranty, and the proposed transaction, may be obtained at the SEC’s Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). You will also be able to obtain these documents, free of charge, from Glacier at www.glacierbancorp.com under the tab “SEC Filings” and in the “Investors” section of GNTY’s website, www.gnty.com, under the heading “Financial Information – SEC Filings” or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Glacier at: Glacier Bancorp, Inc., 49 Commons Loop, Kalispell, Montana 59901, ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (406) 751-7706 or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Guaranty at: Guaranty Bancshares, Inc., 16475 Dallas Parkway, Suite 600, Addison, Texas 75001 ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (888) 572,9881.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    GBCI and GNTY and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of GNTY in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of GBCI is set forth in the proxy statement for GBCI’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 12, 2025. Information about the directors and executive officers of GNTY is set forth in the proxy statement for Guaranty’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 31, 2025. Additional information regarding the interests of those participants and other persons who may be deemed participants may be obtained by reading the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement and other relevant documents regarding the proposed merger transaction filed with the SEC when they become available. Copies of these documents may be obtained free of charge from the sources described above.

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 3D Systems Announces Significant Strengthening of Balance Sheet

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Transactions permanently retire approximately $88 million of debt, 41% of prior balance, at a meaningful discount to par
    • Refinancing extends maturity with issuance of $92 million Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2030
    • Repurchase of 8 million shares, representing approximately 6% of the Company’s outstanding common stock, in connection with the transaction reduces dilution for equity holders
    • Strong remaining cash reserves support completion of restructuring efforts while maintaining continuity in key growth initiatives

    ROCK HILL, S.C., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, 3D Systems (NYSE: DDD) announced the closing of a series of strategic transactions to retire/refinance its outstanding 2026 convertible notes and repurchase shares of its common stock. The Company completed separate, privately negotiated agreements with a limited number of qualified institutional buyers to:

    • Repurchase approximately $180 million in aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 0% Convertible Senior Notes due November 15, 2026 (the “Existing Notes”) at a price of 94.6% of par, and
    • Issue $92 million aggregate principal amount of new 5.875% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2030 (the “New Notes”).

    In connection with these transactions, the Company has repurchased approximately 8 million shares of its common stock concurrently with the closing of the New Notes issuance. The repurchase represents approximately 6% of 3D Systems’ 136.4 million shares outstanding as of May 2, 2025.

    Following closing of these transactions, the Company’s balance sheet will reflect:

    • Approximately $35 million principal amount of the Existing Notes, due in November, 2026;
    • Approximately $92 million principal amount of the New Notes due in 2030; and
    • Approximately $140 million of cash to support debt obligations, restructuring activities and ongoing investment in key growth initiatives.

    The New Notes will mature on June 15, 2030, unless earlier converted, redeemed, or repurchased, and will bear interest at a rate of 5.875% per annum, payable semi-annually. The New Notes are convertible into shares of 3D Systems common stock at an initial conversion price reflecting a 20% premium to the Company’s last reported closing price on the New York Stock Exchange as of June 17, 2025.

    In connection with the repurchase of the Existing Notes at a discount to par, the Company expects to recognize a gain of approximately $10 million in its financial statements for the second quarter.

    Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president and CEO of 3D Systems said, “We are pleased to announce the successful completion of these refinancing transactions, which mark an important step in the continued strengthening of our capital structure. Aided by our strong cash position, the transactions immediately reduce our overall outstanding debt at an attractive discount, significantly extending our debt maturity profile, while managing potential dilution through a simultaneous share repurchase. These transactions follow those of prior periods that have reduced our total debt by over 72% since 2021, with all of the transactions executed at opportunistic periods that have offered meaningful discounts to par value. We believe the transactions position 3D Systems with enhanced financial flexibility and a stronger foundation to continue executing our strategic initiatives and driving long-term value for our shareholders.”

    This announcement is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any of these securities (including the shares of common stock, if any, into which the notes are convertible in certain circumstances), nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under applicable securities laws.

    The offer and sale of the notes and any shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the notes have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or qualified under any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration or qualification requirements.

    Advisors

    Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. acted as Financial Advisor and Sole Placement Agent of the New Notes to 3D Systems.

    Goodwin Procter LLP served as legal counsel to Cantor Fitzgerald.

    McGuireWoods LLP served as legal counsel to 3D Systems.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements made in this release that are not statements of historical or current facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from historical results or from any future results or projections expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In many cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believes,” “belief,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based upon management’s beliefs, assumptions, and current expectations and may include comments as to the Company’s beliefs and expectations as to future events and trends affecting its business and are necessarily subject to uncertainties, many of which are outside the control of the Company. The factors described under the headings “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as other factors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected or predicted in forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of future performance or results, nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at which such performance or results will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included are made only as of the date of the statement. 3D Systems undertakes no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statements made by management or on its behalf, whether as a result of future developments, subsequent events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About 3D Systems
    Nearly 40 years ago, Chuck Hull’s curiosity and desire to improve the way products were designed and manufactured gave birth to 3D printing, 3D Systems, and the additive manufacturing industry. Since then, that same spark continues to ignite the 3D Systems team as we work side-by-side with our customers to change the way industries innovate. As a full-service solutions partner, we deliver industry-leading 3D printing technologies, materials and software to high-value markets such as medical and dental; aerospace, space and defense; transportation and motorsports; AI infrastructure; and durable goods. Each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise and passion of our employees who endeavor to achieve our shared goal of Transforming Manufacturing for a Better Future. More information on the Company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

    Investor Contact: investor.relations@3dsystems.com
    Media Contact: press@3dsystems.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Anterix Inc. Reports Full Fiscal Year 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WOODLAND PARK, N.J., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Anterix (NASDAQ: ATEX) today announced fiscal 2025 fourth quarter and full fiscal year financial results and filed its 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2025. The Company also issued an update on its Demonstrated Intent metric which can be found on Anterix’s website at https://investors.anterix.com/events-presentations.

    Full Year FY2025 Financial and Operational Highlights

    • Appointed Scott Lang as President and Chief Executive Officer effective October 8, 2024
    • Appointed Thomas Kuhn as Executive Chairman of the Board in January 2025
    • Executed new spectrum sale agreements with Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC (“Oncor”) for $102.5 million in June 2024 and Lower Colorado River Authority (“LCRA”) for $13.5 million in January 2025
    • Received milestone payments of $8.5 million from Ameren Corporation (“Ameren”) and $44.0 million from Oncor
    • Approximately $147 million of contracted proceeds outstanding with approximately $80 million to be received in fiscal 2026
    • Exchanged narrowband for broadband licenses in 67 counties and recorded a $22.8 million gain
    • Invested $18.1 million in spectrum clearing costs
    • Secured FCC approval of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to expand the current paired 3 x 3 MHz broadband segment to a paired 5 x 5 MHz broadband segment within the 900 MHz band in January 2025
    • Initiated a strategic review process after receiving inbound interest in the Company in February 2025 which remains ongoing
    • Launched the AnterixAccelerator™ industry engagement initiative in March 2025 to speed up utility adoption of private broadband networks; the program is now oversubscribed with utilities actively engaged in discussions and negotiations for $250 million in 900 MHz spectrum incentives
    • Approximately $3 billion pipeline of prospective contract opportunities across 60+ potential customers

    Fourth Quarter FY2025 Financial Highlights

    • Exchanged narrowband for broadband licenses in 47 counties and recorded a $2.0 million gain
    • Transferred four broadband licenses to Oncor and recorded an $18.3 million gain on the sale of intangible assets
    • Invested $5.5 million in spectrum clearing costs
    • Successfully identified and executed on several measures to reduce operating expenses, mainly through cuts in consulting fees and headcount costs

    Liquidity and Balance Sheet

    At March 31, 2025, the Company had no debt and cash and cash equivalents of $47.4 million. In addition, the Company had a restricted cash balance of $7.7 million in escrow deposits.

    The Company has an authorized share repurchase program for up to $250.0 million of the Company’s common stock on or before September 21, 2026. In the fiscal 2025 fourth quarter and full fiscal, Anterix had share repurchase activity of $2.0 million and $8.4 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2025, $227.7 million is remaining under the share repurchase program.

    Conference Call Information

    Anterix senior management will hold an analyst and investor conference call to provide a business update at 9:00 A.M. ET on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. Participants interested in joining the call’s live question and answer session are required to pre-register by clicking on the following link https://investors.anterix.com/events/event-details/q4-fy2025-anterix-earnings-conference-call to obtain a dial-in number and unique PIN. It is recommended that you join the call at least 10 minutes before the conference call begins. The call is also being webcast live and will be accessible on the Investor Relations section of Anterix’s website at https://investors.anterix.com/events-presentations. Following the event, a replay of the call will also be available on the Anterix website.

    About Anterix Inc.

    At Anterix, we work with leading utilities and technology companies to harness the power of 900 MHz broadband for modernized grid solutions. Leading an ecosystem of more than 125 members, we offer utility-first solutions to modernize the grid and solve the challenges that utilities are facing today. As the largest holder of licensed spectrum in the 900 MHz band (896-901/935-940 MHz) throughout the contiguous United States, plus Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, we are uniquely positioned to enable private wireless broadband solutions that support cutting-edge advanced communications capabilities for a cleaner, safer, and more secure energy future. To learn more and join the 900 MHz movement, please visit www.anterix.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future events or achievements such as statements in this press release related to Anterix’s business, financial results, outlook, or opportunities. Actual events or results may differ materially from those contemplated in this press release. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements, as they are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause Anterix’s actual future results to differ materially from results indicated in the forward-looking statement. Such statements are based on assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including: (i) the timing of payments under customer agreements; (ii) Anterix’s ability to clear the 900 MHz Broadband Spectrum on a timely basis and on commercially reasonable terms; (iii) Anterix’s ability to timely secure broadband licenses; (iv) Anterix’s ability to successfully commercialize its spectrum assets to its targeted utility customers in accordance with its plans and expectations; (v) Anterix’s ability to execute on its customer engagement initiatives; (vi) the timing and outcome of Anterix’s strategic review process; (vii) whether Anterix will be able to identify, develop or execute on any actions as a result of its strategic review process and (viii) competition in the market for spectrum and spectrum solutions offered by Anterix. Actual events or results may differ materially from those contemplated in this press release. Anterix’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which you may obtain for free at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov, discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect the Company’s financial outlook, business, results of operations and financial condition. Anterix undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein.

    Shareholder Contact

    Natasha Vecchiarelli
    Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications
    Anterix
    973-531-4397
    nvecchiarelli@anterix.com

     
     
    Anterix Inc.
    Earnings Release Tables
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in thousands, except share and per share data)
     
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024
    ASSETS
    Current assets      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 47,374     $ 60,578  
    Non-trade receivable   2,926       —  
    Spectrum receivable   7,107       8,521  
    Escrow deposits   547       —  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   2,801       3,912  
    Total current assets   60,755       73,011  
    Escrow deposits   7,103       7,546  
    Property and equipment, net   1,302       2,062  
    Right of use assets, net   4,829       4,432  
    Intangible assets   228,983       216,743  
    Deferred broadband costs   28,944       19,772  
    Other assets   1,188       1,328  
    Total assets $ 333,104     $ 324,894  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
    Current liabilities      
    Accounts payable and other accrued expenses $ 9,075     $ 8,631  
    Accrued severance and other related charges   2,265       —  
    Due to related parties   30       —  
    Operating lease liabilities   1,643       1,850  
    Contingent liability   8,093       1,000  
    Deferred revenue   6,095       6,470  
    Total current liabilities   27,201       17,951  
    Operating lease liabilities   3,747       3,446  
    Contingent liability   15,336       15,000  
    Deferred revenue   118,577       115,742  
    Deferred gain on sale of intangible assets   4,911       4,911  
    Deferred income tax   6,606       6,281  
    Other liabilities   125       531  
    Total liabilities   176,503       163,862  
    Commitments and contingencies      
    Stockholders’ equity      
    Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value per share, 10,000,000 shares authorized and no shares outstanding at March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024   —       —  
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized and 18,612,804 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and 18,452,892 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2024   2       2  
    Additional paid-in capital   548,542       533,203  
    Accumulated deficit   (391,943 )     (372,173 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   156,601       161,032  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 333,104     $ 324,894  
           
    Anterix Inc.
    Earnings Release Tables
    Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (in thousands, except share and per share data)
                   
      Three Months Ended March 31,   Year Ended March 31,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Spectrum revenue $ 1,389     $ 1,260     $ 6,031     $ 4,191  
                   
    Operating expenses              
    General and administrative   9,220       9,593       42,671       44,423  
    Sales and support   1,594       1,728       6,110       5,693  
    Product development   1,089       2,243       5,735       5,697  
    Severance and other related charges   258       —       3,771       —  
    Depreciation and amortization   76       191       548       844  
    Operating expenses   12,237       13,755       58,835       56,657  
    Gain on exchange of intangible assets, net   (1,953 )     (1,989 )     (22,799 )     (35,024 )
    Gain on sale of intangible assets, net   (18,294 )     —       (18,294 )     (7,364 )
    Loss from disposal of long-lived assets, net   3       5       3       44  
    Income (loss) from operations   9,396       (10,511 )     (11,714 )     (10,122 )
    Interest income   446       926       2,159       2,374  
    Other income   40       44       75       233  
    Income (loss) before income taxes   9,882       (9,541 )     (9,480 )     (7,515 )
    Income tax expense (benefit)   674       (130 )     1,892       1,613  
    Net income (loss) $ 9,208     $ (9,411 )   $ (11,372 )   $ (9,128 )
    Net income (loss) per common share basic $ 0.50     $ (0.51 )   $ (0.61 )   $ (0.49 )
    Net income (loss) per common share diluted $ 0.49     $ (0.51 )   $ (0.61 )   $ (0.49 )
    Weighted-average common shares used to compute basic net income (loss) per share   18,577,700       18,483,292       18,562,446       18,765,190  
    Weighted-average common shares used to compute diluted net income (loss) per share   18,709,205       18,483,292       18,562,446       18,765,190  
                   
    Anterix Inc.
    Earnings Release Tables
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (in thousands)
                   
      Three Months Ended March 31,   Year Ended March 31,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES              
    Net income (loss) $ 9,208     $ (9,411 )   $ (11,372 )   $ (9,128 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities              
    Depreciation and amortization   76       191       548       844  
    Stock compensation expense   2,912       3,483       13,531       15,507  
    Deferred income taxes   (130 )     (51 )     325       841  
    Rights of use assets   431       2,770       1,657       1,512  
    Gain on exchange of intangible assets, net   (1,953 )     (1,989 )     (22,799 )     (35,024 )
    Gain on sale of intangible assets, net   (18,294 )     —       (18,294 )     (7,364 )
    Loss from disposal of long-lived assets, net   3       5       3       44  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities              
    Non-trade receivable   (2,926 )     —       (2,926 )     —  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   (139 )     (1,493 )     1,126       (1,171 )
    Accounts payable and other accrued expenses   167       348       550       1,936  
    Accrued severance and other related charges   (25 )     —       2,265       —  
    Due to related parties   30       —       30       (533 )
    Operating lease liabilities   (507 )     (2,865 )     (1,960 )     (1,924 )
    Contingent liability   (4,001 )     —       5,999       15,000  
    Deferred revenue   (1,389 )     15,152       2,460       61,453  
    Other liabilities   (18 )     —       (406 )     —  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities   (16,555 )     6,140       (29,263 )     41,993  
    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES              
    Purchases of intangible assets, including refundable deposits, retuning costs and swaps   (5,474 )     (2,222 )     (18,095 )     (17,031 )
    Proceeds from sale of spectrum   40,935       —       40,935       25,427  
    Purchases of equipment   (46 )     (40 )     (87 )     (307 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   35,415       (2,262 )     22,753       8,089  
    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES              
    Proceeds from stock option exercises   1,691       770       3,651       777  
    Repurchase of common stock   (1,955 )     (5,970 )     (8,398 )     (24,676 )
    Payments of withholding tax on net issuance of restricted stock   —       (104 )     (1,843 )     (1,241 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (264 )     (5,304 )     (6,590 )     (25,140 )
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash   18,596       (1,426 )     (13,100 )     24,942  
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH              
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of the year   36,428       69,550       68,124       43,182  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of the year $ 55,024     $ 68,124     $ 55,024     $ 68,124  
                   

    The following tables provide a reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:

      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024   March 31, 2023
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 47,374     $ 60,578     $ 43,182  
    Escrow deposits   7,650       7,546       —  
    Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 55,024     $ 68,124     $ 43,182  
               
          December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Cash and cash equivalents     $ 28,797     $ 62,033  
    Escrow deposits       7,631       7,517  
    Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash     $ 36,428     $ 69,550  
               
    Anterix Inc.
    Earnings Release Tables
    Other Financial Information
    (in thousands except per share data)
                   
      Three Months Ended March 31,   Year Ended March 31,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Number of shares repurchased and retired   50       173       245       736  
    Average price paid per share* $ 38.63     $ 33.80     $ 33.71     $ 33.72  
    Total cost to repurchase $ 1,955     $ 5,970     $ 8,398     $ 24,676  
    * Average price paid per share includes costs associated with the repurchases, excluding excise taxes associated with the share repurchases.
       

    As of March 31, 2025, $227.7 million is remaining under the share repurchase program.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Issues Emergency Order to Secure Southeast Power Grid Amid Heat Wave

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON—The Department of Energy (DOE) today issued an emergency order authorized by Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act to address potential grid shortfall issues in the Southeast U.S. The order, issued amid surging power demand, will help mitigate the risk of blackouts brought on by high temperatures across the Southeast region. 

    “As electricity demand reaches its peak, Americans should not be forced to wonder if their power grid can support their homes and businesses. Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Energy will use all tools available to maintain a reliable, affordable, and secure energy system for the American people,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “This order ensures Duke Energy Carolinas can supply its customers with consistent and reliable power throughout peak summer demand.” 

    The Order authorizes Duke Energy Carolina to utilize specific electric generating units located within the Duke Energy Carolina area to operate at their maximum generation output levels due to ongoing extreme weather conditions and to preserve the reliability of bulk electric power system. 

    Orders such as this, issued by the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), are in accordance with President Trump’s Executive Order: Declaring a National Energy Emergency and will ensure the availability of generation needed to meet high electricity demand and minimize the risk of blackouts. The order is in effect from June 24 – June 25, 2025. 

    Background: 

    FPA Section 202(c) gives DOE the ability to support energy companies to serve their customers during times of emergencies when they would otherwise not be capable of supplying Americans with reliable, consistent power by providing a waiver of federal, state, or local environmental laws and regulations.   The waivers have limitations to ensure public safety and interest are prioritized.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Announces $26.5M for Local Transportation Projects

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) Board of Directors today announced the approval of a record $26.5 million in Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) loans and grants that will help fund 13 transportation infrastructure projects across the state. This round of GTIB awards is possible thanks to a $46 million budget enhancement allocated in the AFY 2025 state budget. These investments also mark two additional records for the bank that include the largest combined rural award, totaling $13.3 million, and the largest amount of loans, totaling $15.5 million.

    “Thanks to conservative budgeting and strategic funding of our priorities, Georgia is not only the No. 1 state for business we’re also the best state for reliable infrastructure,” said Governor Brian Kemp, Chairman of the SRTA Board. “With this year’s historic rural investment, we’re preserving our competitive edge and reaffirming our commitment to creating opportunity in all parts of our state, especially rural Georgia. I want to thank the General Assembly and the SRTA team for making these awards possible and I look forward to the generational impact they will have on our communities.”

    The Mount Vernon Roadway Connectivity project, one of the major rural investments included in this round of awards, will receive a $1.4 million GTIB grant for improvements and repairs to several local roads damaged by Hurricane Helene. Funds will also go toward the paving of a dirt road. This GTIB grant enables critical roadwork to advance more quickly, enhancing safety for this rural community.

    The largest GTIB investment for this round is a $4.9 million loan to the Cumberland CID for the Cumberland Sweep Segment C buildout – a 3+ mile path around the core of the Cumberland District. The project will enhance transportation for more than 80,000 office workers, residents and visitors in the Improvement District by constructing the first portion of the Cumberland Sweep, a 0.4-mile shared-use path that connects to the existing pedestrian bridge over I-285 and includes traffic signal upgrades at Galleria Drive and Galleria Parkway.

    Another significant loan of $2.4 million along with a $1 million grant was awarded to Barrow County for a new roundabout at State Route 53 (SR 53) at Mulberry Road. This portion of SR 53 connects the cities of Winder, Hoschton, and Braselton, with a combined population of over 40,000. The project will reduce vehicle collisions and improve freight movement. This GTIB investment also accelerates project delivery by three years, resulting in lower overall project costs.

    “SRTA is honored and excited to continue investing in Georgia’s transportation network, this year by infusing more state funds than ever into local projects,” said Jannine Miller, Executive Director of the State Road and Tollway Authority. “Rural communities made up 38% of GTIB applications this year, indicating transportation is important in every corner of our state. With the support of Governor Kemp and the General Assembly, GTIB is helping local governments accelerate project delivery and lower long-term costs for Georgia taxpayers.”

    Since its inception in 2010, GTIB has awarded $242 million in transformative grants and loans, investing in projects with a combined project value exceeding $1.2 billion, demonstrating the impact of the state’s investment and outstanding partnerships with local governments and community improvement districts over the past 15 years.

    From the very first award granted, GTIB has provided strategic state investments in critical transportation projects that enhance mobility in local communities throughout Georgia. Applications are evaluated on a competitive basis, and criteria include transportation, engineering, economic value, matching funds, and project specifics like project phase and feasibility.

    Loan applications are also evaluated for creditworthiness and overall project merits. An advisory committee comprised of representatives from state agencies and statewide associations evaluate SRTA staff recommendations and make final recommendations to the SRTA Board. Funds distributed by GTIB are used to support capital improvements.

    SRTA began accepting GTIB applications mid-November 2024 and closed the application window on January 14, 2025. Fiscal Year 2025 awardees, project descriptions, and funding amounts are as follows:

    Athens-Clarke County
    Roadway Reconfiguration

    This project will improve the intersection of Hawthorne and Oglethorpe Avenue by realigning it, reconfiguring lanes and adding multimodal options. The improvements will improve safety at the intersection and enhance the City’s sidewalk and bike network. 

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,700,000

    Barrow County
    State Route 53 at Mulberry Roundabout

    This project will construct a single lane roundabout at the intersection of State Route 53 and Mulberry Road and realign the intersection. The new intersection is expected to improve road safety and freight movement. GTIB investments accelerate this project by three years.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,468,241

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,000,000

     

    Cherokee County
    Airport Road Spur and Technology Ridge Parkway Project

    This project is the second phase of the Technology Ridge Parkway Project to receive funding from GTIB. This phase of the project will construct a new, two-lane roadway connecting the airport to the existing I-575 interchange. The new spur road will allow the County to move forward with plans to extend the runway to 6,000 feet, allowing aircraft to carry more fuel and make longer trips. The project also includes a segment of Technology Ridge Parkway Phase III which provides access to 86 acres owned by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development and adds a roundabout at the intersection of Wes Welker and Airport Drive.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,000,000

    City of LaGrange
    Project Eagle

    This project will construct a new two-lane road, Callaway South Parkway, from the intersection of Pegasus Parkway ending in a roundabout. This improvement provides access to undeveloped parcels in the Callaway South Industrial Park, enabling even greater private investment in the area. Funding for the project will come from GTIB, the City of LaGrange, Troup County, and the Calloway Foundation.

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,000,000

     

    City of Mount Vernon
    Mount Vernon Roadway Connectivity

    This project will pave Carver Street, which is currently a dirt road, and make drainage improvements and repairs on Broad Street, South Railroad Avenue, North Washington Street, and McKinnon Street. The dirt road paving will improve road safety and provide the opportunity to attract industry while the drainage improvements and road repairs will address significant damage caused by Hurricane Helene re-opening roads currently closed to traffic. This City of Mount Vernon is approximately four (4) square miles and home to 1,800 residents.

    GTIB Grant Award: $1,406,242

    City of Mount Zion
    2025 Street Repairs

    This project will repave several roads for approximately five miles and realign the intersection of Beaver Pond Road and Bowdon Junction Road to improve safety. This intersection is near the West Georgia Regional Airport which supports economic development providing air transportation to companies including SMI Inc., Honda Lock, and Southwire. The GTIB investment will accelerate the project by four (4) years reducing project costs.

    GTIB Loan Award: $487,500

    GTIB Grant Award: $162,500

     

    City of Twin City
    Paving Improvements

    This project will resurface 16 roads for a distance of approximately seven miles. The GTIB investment accelerates the project by several years reducing project costs. Located in Emanual County, City of Twin City is approximately four (4) sq miles and is home to 1,700 residents and George L. Smith, II State Park.

    GTIB Grant Award: $700,000

     

    Colquitt County
    Resurfacing Improvements

    This project will resurface ten roads for a distance of 11 miles in South Georgia’s Colquitt County. Full depth reclamation and replacement of existing culverts will occur where necessary. GTIB investment accelerates project delivery by three (3) years.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,567,430

    GTIB Grant Award: $2,000,000

     

    Cumberland CID
    Cumberland Sweep Segment C – Galleria Parkway Improvements

    This project will build the first section of the Cumberland Sweep project including a shared use path along Galleria Drive from Akers Mill Road to the existing bike/pedestrian bridge over I-285, a distance of just under half-a-mile. Pedestrian lighting will be included along the path and the traffic signal at Galleria Drive and Galleria Parkway will be upgraded. The project improves multimodal travel in one of Atlanta’s biggest activity centers and is funded in partnership with the Cumberland CID, an organization of over 190 commercial property owners fund key infrastructure projects throughout the Improvement District.

    GTIB Loan Award: $4,858,435

     

    Dodge County
    Dodge County Road Improvement Program

    This project will pave Bill Mullis Road from Roddy Highway to SR 87 (3.7 miles), perform full-depth reclamation on Milan Eastman Road from SR 117 to SR 280 (8.2 miles) to repair damage from increased freight traffic and resurface Zion Hill Church from Antioch Church Rd to Coody Road (4.5 miles). By combining these three segments into one project and obtaining GTIB funds, the project will reduce unit costs and accelerate the project timeline by approximately ten years providing substantial project savings.

    GTIB Loan Award: $2,429,108

    GTIB Grant Award: $2,000,000

     

    Dougherty County
    Road and Bridge Infrastructure Improvements

    This project will provide design funds to widen and increase the weight capacity of two bridges on Gravel Hill Road to better accommodate truck and agricultural equipment traffic as well as pave and widen four (4) dirt roads which are heavily affected by adverse weather.  

    GTIB Loan Award: $667,758

    GTIB Grant Award: $580,659

     

    Stewart County
    Moores Store Road Box Culvert Replacement

    This project will replace a double cell box culvert on Moores Store Road at Bussey Creek, resurface the area and improve roadway shoulders and slopes by the creek. These improvements will allow both lanes of the bridge to re-open to traffic and will help minimize damage from future large rain events.

    GTIB Grant Award: $250,000

    Town of Iron City
    Dunham and Broad

    This project is consistent with the Seminole County and Cities Comprehensive Plan and will jumpstart downtown revitalization efforts by repaving streets in downtown Iron City – Broad Street from Church Street to Williams Street and Dunham Street. Located in Seminole County, the Town of Iron City is farming community of approximately one (1) sq mile and home to 300 residents.

    GTIB Grant Award: $260,325

    For more information about the GTIB program, visit www.srta.ga.gov/gtib.

    About the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA)                                               

    SRTA is a state-level authority created to operate tolled transportation facilities within Georgia and act as the transportation financing arm for the state. SRTA manages the collection of tolls on Georgia’s Express Lanes System through the use of Peach Pass. Since 2010, the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) – a grant and low-interest loan program administered by SRTA – has provided funding for eligible local transportation projects across the state. In 2017, SRTA combined with the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) to jointly provide the services of both state authorities. The GRTA board continues to oversee developments of regional impact, air quality reporting and regional transportation plan approval.

    MIL OSI USA News –