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Category: Technology

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 9, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 9, 2025.

    Israeli forces intercept Gaza freedom aid boat Madleen – cut communications
    Pacific Media Watch Contact has been lost with the Gaza Freedom Flotilla humanitarian aid boat Madleen after Israeli commandos intercepted it in international waters. The commandos demanded that everyone on board turn off their phones, and the boat lost contact with Al Jazeera Mubasher journalist Omar Faiad as well as its live feed, reports the

    NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Tookey, Professor of Construction Management, Auckland University of Technology New Zealand has just been hit by the first big cold snap of 2025 and, like every year, many New Zealanders will be reaching for an extra jumper, slippers and maybe a blanket to try and keep

    2-million-year-old pitted teeth from our ancient relatives reveal secrets about human evolution
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Towle, Research Fellow in Biological Anthropology, Monash University Ian Towle / The Conversation The enamel that forms the outer layer of our teeth might seem like an unlikely place to find clues about evolution. But it tells us more than you’d think about the relationships between

    Curious Kids: Why do dolphins jump out of the water?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katharina J. Peters, Lecturer in Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong Will Falcon/Shutterstock Why do dolphins jump out of the water? Charlize, age 8, Melbourne Have you ever seen images of dolphins jumping out of the waves and performing impressive acrobatics in the air? Or maybe you’ve seen

    How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mona Mashhadi Rajabi, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Technology Sydney Jade Gao/Getty Images When US President Donald Trump introduced sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports the goal was to bring manufacturing back to American soil and protect local jobs. However, this process of re-shoring is complex and

    Can Israel still claim self-defence to justify its Gaza war? Here’s what the law says
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University On October 7 2023, more than 1,000 Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel and went on a killing spree, murdering 1,200 men, women and children and abducting another 250 people to take back to Gaza. It was the

    Measles cases are surging globally. Should children be vaccinated earlier?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meru Sheel, Associate Professor, Infectious Diseases, Immunisation and Emergencies (IDIE) Group, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Getty Images Measles has been rising globally in recent years. There were an estimated 10.3 million cases worldwide in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022. Outbreaks

    What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachael Murrihy, Director, The Kidman Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney Getty Images/ Wander Woman Collective Many parents will be familiar with this situation: your child has a good or even best friend, but you don’t like them. Perhaps the friend is bossy, has poor

    Immortality at a price: how the promise of delaying death has become a consumer marketing bonanza
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Errmann, Senior Lecturer, Marketing & International Business, Auckland University of Technology Living forever has become the wellness and marketing trend of the 2020s. But cheating death – or at least delaying it – will come at a price. What was once the domain of scientists and

    Why bystanders defend bad behaviour at work — even when they know it’s wrong
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zhanna Lyubykh, Assistant Professor, Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University Rather than intervening, supporting targets or reporting the misconduct, bystanders may downplay it, withdraw support or even blame the target, which ultimately reinforces the mistreatment. (Shutterstock) “You always mess things up. Why are you even on

    Phil Goff: Israel doesn’t care how many innocent people it’s killing in Gaza
    COMMENTARY: By Phil Goff “What we are doing in Gaza now is a war of devastation: indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians. It’s the result of government policy — knowingly, evilly, maliciously, irresponsibly dictated.” This statement was made not by a foreign or liberal critic of Israel but by the former Prime Minister

    New Zealand’s foreign policy stance on Palestine lacks transparency
    COMMENTARY: By John Hobbs It is difficult to understand what sits behind the New Zealand government’s unwillingness to sanction, or threaten to sanction, the Israeli government for its genocide against the Palestinian people. The United Nations, human rights groups, legal experts and now genocide experts have all agreed it really is “genocide” which is being

    The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney A no-holds-barred and very public blow-up between the world’s richest man and the president of the United States has had social media agog in recent days, with each making serious accusations against the

    Gaza plea: RSF, CPJ and 150+ media outlets call on Israel to open Strip to foreign journalists, protect Palestinian reporters
    Pacific Media Watch More than 150 press freedom advocacy groups and international newsrooms have joined Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) in issuing a public appeal demanding that Israel grant foreign journalists immediate, independent and unrestricted access to the Gaza Strip. The organisations are also calling for the full protection

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: MoneyHero Group Expands Digital Asset Wealth Product Offerings in Hong Kong in Strategic Collaboration with OSL

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) (“MoneyHero” or the “Company”), a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia, today announced a strategic collaboration with OSL Group Limited (HKEX: 863) (“OSL”), Asia’s leading regulated digital asset platform, to expand its digital asset wealth product offerings. This collaboration marks a key step as MoneyHero expands its wealth products offerings in Hong Kong to include digital asset-related services provided by Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (“SFC”)-licensed institutions, aiming to enhance financial wellbeing for consumers in Hong Kong.

    Through this collaboration, MoneyHero users can compare digital asset account products offered by leading SFC-licensed platforms like OSL, alongside insurance, stock, and bank account products, empowering them to make smarter and more informed financial decisions with a broader range of product choices. Hong Kong’s growing interest in digital assets reflects increasing demand for diversified financial solutions. According to data from Investor and Financial Education Council (IFEC)1, a subsidiary of the SFC, 8% of retail investors in Hong Kong invested in virtual assets and related products in 2023, up from just 1% in 2019, while 11% of retail investors showed intention to invest in these products – reflecting the growing direct participation and interest that MoneyHero and OSL are addressing.

    Rohith Murthy, CEO of MoneyHero, said: “We are thrilled to work with OSL, a recognised leader in the regulated digital asset space in Asia. This collaboration reflects our unique value proposition and position as the leading digital acquisition partner for the majority of banks across Greater Southeast Asia, which we are leveraging to extend our offerings into the digital asset space. We are committed to providing our users with comprehensive financial solutions and access to emerging asset classes in a responsible and informed manner. OSL’s strong regulatory compliance and institutional expertise provide valuable support for our expansion into the sector, where we also see significant potential to broaden our offerings in the future.”

    Jack Derong, CMO of OSL, said: “We are delighted to join forces with MoneyHero, an established and trusted platform across Southeast Asia. We believe that providing accessible and regulated pathways to digital assets is crucial for the industry’s sustainable growth. MoneyHero’s extensive user network and transparent and reliable comparison tools will empower a wider audience with the knowledge and access to participate in the digital asset economy with confidence.”​​​​

    About MoneyHero Group

    MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) is a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia. The Company operates in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Philippines. Its brand portfolio includes B2C platforms MoneyHero, SingSaver, Money101, Moneymax and Seedly, as well as the B2B platform Creatory. The Company also retains an equity stake in Malaysian fintech company, Jirnexu Pte. Ltd., parent company of Jirnexu Sdn. Bhd., the operator of RinggitPlus, Malaysia’s largest operating B2C platform. MoneyHero had over 290 commercial partner relationships as at 31 December 2024, and had approximately 6.2 million Monthly Unique Users across its platform for the three months ended 31 December 2024. The Company’s backers include Peter Thiel—co-founder of PayPal, Palantir Technologies, and the Founders Fund—and Hong Kong businessman, Richard Li, the founder and chairman of Pacific Century Group. To learn more about MoneyHero and how the innovative fintech company is driving APAC’s digital economy, please visit www.MoneyHeroGroup.com.

    About OSL Group
    OSL Group (HKEX: 863.HK) is a leading global financial infrastructure platform bridging traditional finance and the digital asset economy through blockchain technology. The Group is dedicated to providing efficient, seamless, and regulatory-compliant financial services to individuals and businesses worldwide.

    OSL delivers a comprehensive suite of regulated services through its licensed platforms, including 24/7 OTC brokerage with deep liquidity fiat gateways and competitive pricing; omnibus brokerage solutions enabling traditional financial institutions to integrate digital assets; SOC 2 Type 2-certified custody with up to US$1 billion insurance protection; and compliant retail trading channels; wealth management solutions, including scheduled launches on tokenised treasuries and RWAs; and in preparation for cross-border payment infrastructure via OSL Pay.

    “Open, Secure, Licensed” are the principles OSL lives by. OSL is expanding its compliant infrastructure across Japan, Australia, and Europe, potentially Southeast Asia, powering the next generation of global financial infrastructure.

    For more information, please visit group.osl.com.

    For MoneyHero inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    MoneyHero IR Team
    IR@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    Media Relations:
    MoneyHero PR Team
    Press@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    For OSL inquiries, please contact:
    OSL Media Team
    media@osl.com

    Disclaimer

    The Company and its subsidiaries do not hold any license issued by the SFC and do not engage in any regulated activities as defined under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong). This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to constitute, an offer or invitation to provide any securities, investment, or other regulated services to the public in Hong Kong.

    1Investor and Financial Education Council. (2023). Retail Investor Study 2023. Retrieved from https://www.ifec.org.hk/web/common/pdf/about-ifec/retail-investor-study-2023.pdf

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Legacy in action: How Beijing’s dual-Olympic venue powers sport, community

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

    From the fierce clashes of Olympic ice hockey to the roar of basketball fans and the graceful arcs of figure skating, Beijing’s National Indoor Stadium has become a model for sustainable Olympic venue use.

    17 years after hosting gymnastics, trampoline and wheelchair basketball events at the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, and three years after staging ice hockey competitions during the 2022 Winter Olympics, the venue is once again welcoming world-class athletes, with the FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) held at one of the city’s iconic “dual Olympic” venues.

    Martyna Lukasik (R) of Poland spikes the ball during the Pool 3 match between Poland and Thailand at the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Yuan)

    At the heart of the stadium’s success lies a simple yet powerful strategy: putting sports first and sharing it with the community. In doing so, it reflects a broader vision of how Olympic legacy can serve both elite performance and public engagement.

    “We’ve always believed that a world-class sports venue must serve athletes, spectators and the city alike,” National Indoor Stadium chairman Wang Yue told Xinhua.

    SMART OPERATIONS, OLYMPIC LEGACY

    Built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the National Indoor Stadium underwent major upgrades for the 2022 Winter Games, becoming one of the two ice hockey competition venues.

    During renovations, designers incorporated a dual-size ice rink system, allowing conversion between the standard 60m x 26m Olympic ice hockey field and a 60m x 30m configuration for figure skating and other events. This design foresight laid the foundation for versatile, long-term use.

    Following the Winter Olympics, the stadium returned to its sports-first mission under the Beijing Performing Arts Group, aligning with the city’s call to refocus Olympic venues on athletic development. Since then, it has hosted a growing portfolio of top-tier events and become home to Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) team the Beijing Royal Fighters.

    “Our post-Olympic mission has been to fully return to our core mission – sports. This venue is designed to host elite competitions, and also to welcome citizens in their everyday lives. We’re building a world-class stadium brand rooted in Olympic spirit and open access,” Wang explained.

    The venue’s reputation for professionalism has also been affirmed by visiting teams during the VNL.

    “This stadium has amazing lighting and atmosphere. It makes the players feel like they’re on one of the world’s biggest stages,” said Türkiye head coach Daniele Santarelli.

    China captain Gong Xiangyu echoed this sentiment: “It’s exciting to play here. You feel the energy of the crowd and the history of the place.”

    FROM OLYMPIC SPOTLIGHT TO DAILY USE

    Since its post-Winter Olympics reopening, the stadium has focused on optimizing space and schedule through precise planning. With an annual calendar packed with over 60 major events – spanning volleyball, basketball, ice hockey, concerts and exhibitions – the venue runs on what its operators call a “full-time, full-space” model.

    “We host around 30 professional sports events a year, and the same number of other commercial and cultural events,” said Wang.

    Behind these seamless transitions is a core operation team of fewer than 20 people, who oversee everything from scheduling to logistical coordination.

    “Our team is small but specialized,” Wang explained. “After a concert teardown at night, we can switch the space into basketball mode by the next morning.”

    Beyond major events, the stadium shifts gears on non-match days to serve everyday fitness and public engagement.

    “We offer rhythmic gymnastics and badminton classes in the main hall. The training hall becomes a hub for table tennis and balance-bike lessons,” Wang noted.

    A dedicated ice hockey rink built for the Winter Games now supports both Beijing’s men’s ice hockey team and public skating hours, while outdoor tennis and 3×3 basketball courts are fully booked on weekends.

    “Hosting events isn’t our only goal,” said Wang. “We want local residents to see this as their home stadium. Whether you’re watching volleyball or playing badminton with your children, this is the place for you.”

    “We are positioning ourselves as an Olympic legacy venue that delivers on both elite performance and daily vitality,” he added.

    BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE, PEOPLE-CENTERED MODEL

    With the goal of long-term sustainability, the stadium is developing a diversified revenue model that combines core sports events with concerts, exhibitions, themed retail and dining.

    “Our operations are now basically breaking even,” Wang noted. “We are pushing for a balance between economic return and public benefit.”

    To support this strategy, the stadium is building two flagship sports brands: basketball and ice hockey.

    “The Beijing Royal Fighters plays most of its home games here. We’re also the training base and competition site for Beijing’s city-level ice hockey team,” said Wang, adding these projects help drive identity and fan engagement.

    Wang also emphasized the stadium’s public-service function.

    “More than 1,000 amateur events are held here every year,” he said. “This isn’t a major profit center, but it’s about public value. As a state-owned venue, we must serve the community.”

    The five-day VNL competitions have drawn tens of thousands of fans and ignited a new wave of enthusiasm. Visitors can use match tickets for discounts at restaurants and shops nearby – part of a growing “ticket stub economy” that ties sport with city life.

    “Sport is more than a competition,” said Wang. “It’s a way to connect people, boost local business and enhance urban life. That’s the Olympic legacy we hope to continue.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC PDS Severe Thunderstorm Watch 399

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 399
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    830 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Southwest Arkansas
    Northwest Louisiana
    Southeast Oklahoma
    North-Central and Northeast Texas

    * Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 830 PM
    until 400 AM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds expected with scattered significant
    gusts to 100 mph likely
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense clusters and supercells are expected to
    track east-southeast over southern Oklahoma and north-central/
    northeast Texas this evening into the early overnight hours.
    Widespread severe/damaging winds are anticipated with this activity,
    with peak gusts potentially reaching up to 80-100 mph in the more
    intense bowing clusters. Scattered large to very large hail also
    remains possible with embedded supercells, along with a few
    tornadoes.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 80
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles west northwest
    of Mineral Wells TX to 10 miles north northeast of Shreveport LA.
    For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 392…WW 393…WW
    394…WW 395…WW 396…WW 397…WW 398…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 85 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    30035.

    …Gleason

    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 399
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    830 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Southwest Arkansas
    Northwest Louisiana
    Southeast Oklahoma
    North-Central and Northeast Texas

    * Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 830 PM
    until 400 AM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds expected with scattered significant
    gusts to 100 mph likely
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense clusters and supercells are expected to
    track east-southeast over southern Oklahoma and north-central/
    northeast Texas this evening into the early overnight hours.
    Widespread severe/damaging winds are anticipated with this activity,
    with peak gusts potentially reaching up to 80-100 mph in the more
    intense bowing clusters. Scattered large to very large hail also
    remains possible with embedded supercells, along with a few
    tornadoes.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 80
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles west northwest
    of Mineral Wells TX to 10 miles north northeast of Shreveport LA.
    For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 392…WW 393…WW
    394…WW 395…WW 396…WW 397…WW 398…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 85 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    30035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW9
    WW 399 SEVERE TSTM AR LA OK TX 090130Z – 090900Z
    AXIS..80 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    50WNW MWL/MINERAL WELLS TX/ – 10NNE SHV/SHREVEPORT LA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 70NM N/S /58SSW SPS – 11SSE EIC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..85 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30035.

    LAT…LON 34219887 33749376 31439376 31909887

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU9.

    Watch 399 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (>95%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    High (90%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (50%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Tookey, Professor of Construction Management, Auckland University of Technology

    New Zealand has just been hit by the first big cold snap of 2025 and, like every year, many New Zealanders will be reaching for an extra jumper, slippers and maybe a blanket to try and keep warm.

    New Zealand’s housing stock has long been criticised for being damp, cold and ill-suited to the climate.

    In the 2018 Census, households were asked about the state of their homes. According to Stats NZ, 318,891 homes in New Zealand (21.5%) were affected by dampness and 252,855 (16.9%) had visible mould larger than A4 size at least some of the time.

    While the World Health Organization recommends a minimum indoor temperature of 18˚C, many homes in New Zealand fall below these thresholds, with some experiencing temperatures less than 16°C.

    Even when homes are built to code, there can still be issues and health risks. A lot of New Zealand’s housing is not fit for purpose – particularly at this time of the year.

    While improving heating and standards is a homeowner choice, for landlords it is increasingly a requirement. Over recent years landlords have faced increasing costs to achieve legal heating, ventilation and insulation requirements within 90 days of a new or renewed tenancy.

    For everyone else, there are ways to make homes more efficient to heat and comfortable to live in. Here are four ways to keep heat in your home this winter – some simple and affordable, while others are more of an investment.

    Insulation is your friend

    Firstly, insulation is our friend in winter. Double glazing is excellent but expensive (between NZ$450/m2 and $1500/m2) and subject to restrictions in heritage buildings. There are other options.

    Secondary glazing with glass, acrylic or applique plastic sheets can be a significantly more cost-effective option.

    Where possible, home owners should be looking at ways to add to thermal efficiency by increasing insulation.

    Walls can be retrofitted with cavity fillers. If your budget can stretch to it, rigid insulation board is also effective. Under the floor and in the roof spaces are favourites for these upgrades. They are relatively cheap improvements to make and generally pay for themselves.

    Target draughts

    Secondly, a warm and dry home requires finding and eliminating draughts.

    For many years, building scientists have sought to achieve airtight homes. An airtight home substantially reduces heat loss in winter.

    Temporary and permanent improvements can be made by buying or making some draught excluders and door sweeps for doorways. But specialist products such as adhesive-backed foam tape or V-strip weatherstripping around door and window frames are also very effective.

    Even just using masking tape during winter to seal the gaps in unused windows can help keep warmth in the home.

    Windows and a compass

    Third, use your window orientation strategically. Invest in heavier curtains (or blinds) that insulate windows. Then use a compass (you probably have a compass app on your phone) to work out which way is north.

    North-facing windows catch the sun during the day, and contribute to thermal gain in a house. South-facing windows are in shadow all day and tend to act as a heat sink, losing energy throughout the day.

    During the day, ensure curtains and blinds are open on the north side and closed on the south side. As soon as night falls, close the curtains to retain maximum heat. Try to keep unused rooms closed off and stick to the naturally warmer spaces.

    Move heat around

    Fourth, use ceiling fans, heat pumps, and dehumidifiers to maximise the available heat in your house.

    Heat will stratify into layers in your house. It is always going to be warmer near the ceiling of each room. Usually, the loft space is the warmest of all through maximum thermal gain during the day.

    Using a ducted heat pump can recycle that heat to the living spaces. Similarly, if you set the ceiling fan to move air around the room you will make the most of what you have. Ideally, run the ceiling fan backwards (clockwise) if it has that option, to create an updraught rather than a downdraught to aid circulation.

    Dehumidifiers are extremely useful in increasing the feeling of warmth in a house. During operation, they release some latent heat while condensing water. Dry air is easier to heat, making your heating more efficient.

    Your home can make you sick

    Cold damp homes can have significant health impacts, including respiratory issues, rheumatic fever and skin infections – particularly for children and vulnerable people.

    Targeting heat loss and dampness can help improve conditions. Will it ensure every home is warm and toasty? No. But these steps can make their homes just a little bit warmer – and healthier – this winter.

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

    – ref. NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter – https://theconversation.com/nz-homes-are-notorious-for-being-cold-and-damp-here-are-4-ways-to-make-yours-feel-warmer-this-winter-257893

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government proposes to extend ban on destructive bottom trawling

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government proposes to extend ban on destructive bottom trawling

    Government proposals to ban bottom trawling in more vulnerable marine habitats aim to protect important and rare underwater life.

    Under the sea.

    Bottom trawling – a fishing method that involves dragging large nets along the sea floor – could be banned across more vulnerable areas of English seas. 

    The government is committed to protecting our oceans and today (Monday 9th June) has outlined plans to ban the destructive practice in more Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The measures would help protect rare marine animals, as well as the delicate seabeds on which they rely, from indiscriminate and potentially irreversible damage. 

    A consultation will invite marine and fisheries stakeholders to share their views and evidence on the prohibition of destructive bottom-towed fishing gear that could affect approximately 30,000km2 spanning 41 MPAs. 

    The measures would protect marine habitats ranging from subtidal sandbanks to gravels to muds, and support important marine species such as lobster, clams, soft corals and langoustines.  

    A ban on bottom trawling in these areas would help conserve valuable and rare marine life, and allow seabeds to recover from damage caused by destructive fishing practices. 

    Such regeneration will produce healthier marine ecosystems across English waters, supporting greater biodiversity in our seas for the enjoyment of everyone, as well as preserving vulnerable underwater life that is essential for nature to heal and thrive.

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:  

    Bottom trawling is damaging our precious marine wildlife and habitats. 

    Without urgent action, our oceans will be irreversibly destroyed – depriving us, and generations to come, of the sea life on which we all enjoy. 

    The Government is taking decisive action to ban destructive bottom trawling where appropriate.

    Director of Policy and Public Affairs at The Wildlife Trusts Joan Edwards said 

    For too long damaging activities have been allowed to continue within many of our Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) which are supposed to protect the seabed.  

    The Wildlife Trusts have been campaigning for a long time for better management of our MPAs and therefore welcome the news today of a consultation to ban bottom-towed trawling in over 40 offshore sites.  

    Removing this pressure is a great step forward towards protecting not only the wildlife and fish stocks within those sites, but also the carbon stored in the seabed muds beneath. Following this consultation, we hope that these measures will be put in place rapidly to enable recovery of these sites, a win-win for both nature and the climate.

    Executive Director of Oceana UK Hugo Tagholm said:  

    Destructive bottom trawling has no place in marine protected areas. These proposals provide a golden opportunity to safeguard these vital marine sanctuaries from the most damaging fishing practices. 

    If these whole-site bans are fully implemented, this could provide an invaluable and urgently needed lifeline for England’s seas, which are so crucial for wildlife and climate resilience.

    The proposed measures would add to the approximately 18,000 km2 of English seabed already protected from bottom-towed fishing gear, and form part of the government’s ambitious programme to protect all English MPAs from harmful activity where needed. 

    The design of the measures and choice of MPAs has been based on detailed assessments into the impacts of fishing on sensitive seabed habitats and species at risk of damage by bottom-towed fishing gear. 

    The consultation will be launched by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) in partnership with Defra, and run for 12 weeks from Monday 9th June to Monday 1st September.  

    Elsewhere at the United Nations Ocean Conference, the government pledged a further £4 million to the Global Fund for Coral Reefs to help protect this vital marine habitat, bringing the UK’s total contribution to the fund up to £40 million. 

    It also announced £2.8 million investment into the Outrigger Technical Assistance Fund to support sustainable blue economies in small island developing states, and reiterated its commitment to agree an ambitious, legally binding plastic pollution treaty when negotiations resume in Geneva this August.   

    This government is committed to protecting and restoring our ocean to good health, delivering on our commitment to protect 30 per cent of the ocean by 2030. 

    Last month, the government announced its £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund to modernise Britain’s fishing fleet and support the seafood sector in the face of changing global pressures.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM launches national skills drive to unlock opportunities for young people in tech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM launches national skills drive to unlock opportunities for young people in tech

    Pupils across the country will be given the skills and tools needed to get the AI-powered jobs of the future thanks to a new skills programme launched by the Prime Minister.

    • 1 million students in secondary school to be given an unprecedented chance to learn and develop their skills in tech and AI
    • £187 million investment in national skills programme to bring digital skills and AI learning into classrooms and communities
    • 7.5 million UK workers to gain essential AI skills by 2030 through industry partnership as major tech players including NVIDIA, Google and Microsoft back the Government’s skills drive
    • Skills drive to break down barriers to opportunity, drive growth and put more money in people’s pockets through skilled jobs as part of the Plan for Change and the forthcoming modern Industrial Strategy

    Pupils across the country will be given the skills and tools needed to get the AI-powered jobs of the future thanks to a new skills programme launched by the Prime Minister today (Monday 9 June).

    At the heart of the skills drive, and as part of the upcoming modern Industrial Strategy, is a new £187 million government “TechFirst” programme to bring digital skills and AI learning into classrooms and communities and train up people of all ages and backgrounds for the tech careers of the future.

    Today’s announcements show this government is laser focused on investing in the futures of young people across Britain, knocking down barriers to opportunities, regardless of where they grow up.  

    It comes as research commissioned by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) shows that by 2035, around 10 million workers will be in roles where AI will be part of their role or responsibilities in some form, with a further 3.9 million in roles directly in AI.

    The flagship strand of this programme “TechYouth” – backed by £24 million of government funding – will give 1 million students over three years across every secondary school in the UK the chance to learn about technology and gain access to new skills training and career opportunities.

    There will also be an online platform to inspire and educate students about the potential of computing and tech careers – building on CyberFirst’s Explorers which has access to most secondary schools in the UK with 100,000 students registered already. This will bring together learning tools and training opportunities in a streamlined accessible space.

    In each of the UK’s regions and nations, a local delivery partner will be selected by DSIT to run the programme and deliver activities to schools and colleges in local areas.

    The AI sector alone is valued at £72.3 billion and is projected to exceed £800 billion by 2035. It is growing 30 times faster than the rest of the economy, employing over 64,000 people across more than 3,700 companies.

    But despite these strengths, access to AI skills in the UK remains one of the biggest barriers to growth—especially for startups, scaleups, and regions outside London. According to a TechNation report released today, one in three UK tech founders say the availability of top talent is their biggest barrier to growth.

    That’s why the government is backing young people and investing in skills as an engine of economic growth—putting more money in people’s pockets and breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of the Plan for Change.

    This package underpins the upcoming industrial strategy and also delivers on the government’s manifesto commitment to create higher-quality training and employment paths by empowering local communities to develop the skills people need and putting employers at the heart of our skills system.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    “We are putting the power of AI into the hands of the next generation – so they can shape the future, not be shaped by it.

    “This training programme will unlock opportunity in every classroom – and lays the foundations for a new era of growth.

    “Too many children from working families like the one I grew up in are written off. I am determined to end that.

    “This programme is the Plan for Change in action – breaking down barriers, driving innovation, and giving every young person the chance of a good, well paid job and a bright future.”

    TechFirst will also support over 4,000 graduates, researchers, and innovators through three additional strands:

    • TechGrad (£96.8m) – will support 1,000 exceptional domestic students a year with undergraduate scholarships in areas like AI, cyber security, and computer science. This will also go towards 100 Research MSc places in key tech sectors, and 100 elite AI scholarships. Applicants will be able to apply to the scheme online and those successful will have their bursaries paid from a central fund.
    • TechExpert (£48.4m) – will give up to £10,000 in additional funding to 500 domestic PhD students conducting research in tech with the aim of accelerating cutting-edge innovation, strengthen the UK’s research pipeline in strategic technology sectors, and ensure that emerging talent is supported to contribute to national tech leadership.
    • TechLocal (£18m) – will offer seed funding to help regional innovators and small businesses develop new tech products and adopt AI. A panel made up of local tech businesses will be established in each region to decide which applications have merit, with the necessary checks then done centrally by Innovate UK.

    Major industry players including IBM, BAE Systems, QinetiQ, BT, Microsoft and the Careers & Enterprise Company – the national body for careers education – have backed the initiative.

    TechFirst builds on the success of the CyberFirst programme, which has already helped hundreds of thousands of young people gain cyber security skills.

    Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 

    “We are getting Brits ready for jobs of the future by helping millions across the country gain vital digital skills in AI and beyond.

    “Embedding these skills into our education system and local communities will help people of all backgrounds and ensure tech talent flourishes in every corner of our nation.

    “These partnerships with industry will translate skills into real jobs and economic growth, putting more money in people’s pockets and breaking down barriers to opportunity. This is our Plan for Change in action – investing in the skills that will power our economy and deliver prosperity for working people across the country.”

    David Hogan, Vice President Enterprise EMEA – NVIDIA said:

    “AI developers are the engine of the next industrial revolution. AI talent, skills and research are crucial ingredients in the UK’s mission to become an AI maker, not an AI taker.

    “So, we’re delighted to partner with the government to train the next generation of AI developers, capable of finding new cures for diseases, discovering new materials and building world-beating, British AI companies.”

    Google EMEA President, Debbie Weinstein, said: 

    “Our AI Works report revealed that £400bn worth of economic growth awaits the UK, but half of this depends on workers embracing and using AI. That’s precisely why we’re thrilled to join this crucial initiative, essential for supercharging AI upskilling, unlocking AI-powered growth and cementing the UK’s position as an AI leader.”

    Carolyn Dawson OBE, CEO of Founders Forum Group and Tech Nation, said: 

    “AI will transform every industry – but we can only unlock its full potential if we ensure the UK’s workforce has the skills to keep pace. This national upskilling programme is an ambitious and necessary step – not just to boost productivity, but to make sure we’re equipping the UK to participate in and benefit from the AI-driven economy. At Tech Nation, we’ve long championed the power of both homegrown talent and global expertise – whether that’s through supporting founders to scale or endorsing the UK’s Global Talent Visa. We’re proud to support initiatives that help the UK remain globally competitive”.

    Leon Butler Chief Executive of IBM UK and Ireland said:

    “Boosting technology skills across the economy is key to the UK maintaining its leadership position in AI. Having helped millions globally to develop new AI skills with our IBM SkillsBuild programme, we are delighted to partner with the UK government to help equip workers with vital tech skills. This complements our long-standing commitment to programmes such as CyberFirst, which we are excited to see expand. We look forward to continuing our support as the programme grows.”

    Darren Hardman CEO of Microsoft UK said:

    “Artificial Intelligence represents a generational opportunity, already transforming the way we live, work, and innovate. For the UK to remain globally competitive, we have to equip people with the skills they need to be successful in an AI-powered economy. Microsoft is proud to be playing its part, by training one million people with AI skills this year, and by supporting millions more through this new initiative.”

    Intuit EMEA General Manager Leigh Thomas said:

    “AI is a growth enabler for small and medium-sized businesses, levelling the playing field, by giving them the opportunity to access the sort of technology solutions that larger businesses have access to. The announcement today is a great step forward in improving their bottom line, and we look forward to collaborating with Government and other private sector partners to accelerate knowledge, understanding and adoption of AI tools by the businesses that need it most.”

    Jensen Huang, Founder and CEO, NVIDIA said:

    “AI developers power the next industrial revolution. AI talent, skills and research are crucial ingredients in the UK’s mission to become an AI maker, not an AI taker. We’re delighted to partner with the government to train the next generation of AI developers, capable of finding new cures for diseases, discovering new materials and building word-class AI companies.”

    Alongside TechFirst, the Prime Minister also announced a new government-industry partnership to train 7.5 million UK workers in essential skills to use AI by 2030—equivalent to around 20% of the UK workforce.

    Leading technology companies including Google, Microsoft, IBM, SAS, Accenture, Sage, Barclays, BT, Amazon, Intuit, and Salesforce have signed up to the partnership. They have committed to making high-quality training materials widely available to workers in businesses – large and small – up and down the country free of charge, over the next five years. 

    Training will focus on enabling workers to use and interact with AI systems such as chatbots and large language models to boost productivity across a wide range of roles. Sector-specific training will also be developed to meet the needs of industries from healthcare to finance to manufacturing.

    These companies will meet the Technology Secretary Peter Kyle this week to discuss how to meet the 2030 target, agree a terms of reference and will convene regularly to track progress.

    Following his speech, the Prime Minister will join NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang for an “in conversation” event to discuss the challenges of closing the AI skills gap and the potential of AI to transform public services and drive economic growth.

    This comes as the government and NVIDIA today signed two Memorandums of Understanding, supporting the development of a nationwide AI talent pipeline and accelerating critical university-led research into the role of AI in advanced connectivity technologies. In addition, NVIDIA will expand its AI lab in Bristol to other areas of the UK to accelerate UK research in AI.  

    Today’s package follows the Department for Education’s announcement of the board members for Skills England, a new body which will work with employers and local leaders to shape training policy and delivery. Skills England will identify and tackle skills shortage in key Industrial Strategy sectors such as digital, creating more opportunities for young people.

    Yesterday, the Prime Minister hosted a private reception at Chequers with leading tech CEOs and investors—including Eric Schmidt (Former CEO & Chairman of Google), Angie Ma (Faculty AI) Demis Hassabis (Google DeepMind), and Alex Wang (Scale) —to reaffirm the UK’s position as a global tech leader.

    Tomorrow, he will welcome business leaders and entrepreneurs to Downing Street, including 16-year-old AI entrepreneur Toby Brown, who recently secured $1 million in Silicon Valley funding for his startup, Beem.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC PDS Severe Thunderstorm Watch 396

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 396
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    400 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southwest Oklahoma
    Western North Texas and Low Rolling Plains

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 400 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds and scattered significant gusts to 105
    mph likely
    Widespread large hail likely with isolated very large hail
    events to 5 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes likely

    SUMMARY…Increasing intense severe storm development is expected
    through late afternoon into evening. This will include initial
    supercells capable of very large hail with a tornado risk, but a
    prominent potential for widespread damaging winds should evolve this
    evening.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
    statute miles north and south of a line from 10 miles northwest of
    Lubbock TX to 40 miles southeast of Chickasha OK. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 391…WW 392…WW
    393…WW 394…WW 395…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 90 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    29035.

    …Guyer

    SEL6

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 396
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    400 PM CDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southwest Oklahoma
    Western North Texas and Low Rolling Plains

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 400 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    …THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION…

    * Primary threats include…
    Widespread damaging winds and scattered significant gusts to 105
    mph likely
    Widespread large hail likely with isolated very large hail
    events to 5 inches in diameter possible
    A few tornadoes likely

    SUMMARY…Increasing intense severe storm development is expected
    through late afternoon into evening. This will include initial
    supercells capable of very large hail with a tornado risk, but a
    prominent potential for widespread damaging winds should evolve this
    evening.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 70
    statute miles north and south of a line from 10 miles northwest of
    Lubbock TX to 40 miles southeast of Chickasha OK. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU6).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 391…WW 392…WW
    393…WW 394…WW 395…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 90 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean storm motion vector
    29035.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW6
    WW 396 SEVERE TSTM OK TX 082100Z – 090400Z
    AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    10NW LBB/LUBBOCK TX/ – 40SE CHK/CHICKASHA OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM N/S /4NNW LBB – 32NNW ADM/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..90 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 29035.

    LAT…LON 34790194 35709747 33689747 32750194

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

    Watch 396 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (60%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (90%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    High (80%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (50%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mona Mashhadi Rajabi, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Technology Sydney

    Jade Gao/Getty Images

    When US President Donald Trump introduced sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports the goal was to bring manufacturing back to American soil and protect local jobs.

    However, this process of re-shoring is complex and requires years of investment and planning – far too slow for the world of ultra-fast fashion, where brands are used to reacting in weeks, not years.

    Many clothing companies started to move production out of China during Trump’s first term. They relocated to countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia when the initial China-specific tariffs hit.

    This trend accelerated with the newer “reciprocal” tariffs. Instead of re-shoring production, many fashion brands are simply sourcing from whichever country offers the lowest total cost after tariffs. The result? The ultra-fast fashion machine adapted quickly and became even more exploitative.

    From Guangzhou to your wardrobe in days

    Platforms such as Shein and Temu built their success by offering trend-driven clothing at shockingly low prices. A $5 dress or $3 top might seem like a bargain, but those prices hide a lot.

    Much of Shein’s production takes place in the so-called “Shein village” in Guangzhou, China, where workers often sew for 12–14 hours a day under poor conditions to keep pace with the demand for new items.

    When the US cracked down on Chinese imports, the intention was to make American-made goods more competitive. This included raising the tariff on Chinese goods as high as 145% (since paused), and closing the “de minimis” loophole, which had allowed imports under US$800 to enter tariff-free.

    But these tariffs did not halt ultra-fast fashion. They just rerouted production to countries with lower tariffs and even lower labour costs. The Philippines, with a comparatively low tariff rate of 17%, emerged as a surprising alternative. However, the country can’t provide the industrial scale and infrastructure to match what China can offer.

    So why does Australia matter?

    Much of the cheap fashion previously bound for the US is now flooding other markets, including Australia.

    Australia still allows most low-value imports to enter tax-free, and platforms such as Shein and Temu have taken full advantage. Australian consumers are among the most frequent Shein and Temu buyers per capita globally.

    Just 3% of clothing is made in Australia and most labels rely on offshore manufacturing. This makes Australia an ideal target market for ultra-fast fashion imports. We have high purchasing power, lenient import rules and strong demand for low-cost style, especially due to the cost-of-living crisis.

    The hidden costs of cheap clothes

    The environmental impact of fast fashion is well known. However, amid the chaos of Trump’s tariff announcements, far less attention has been paid to how these policies – together with the retreat from climate commitments – worsen environmental harms, including those linked to fast fashion.

    The irony is that the tariffs meant to protect American workers have, in some cases, worsened conditions for workers elsewhere. Meanwhile, consumers in Australia now benefit from faster delivery of even cheaper goods as Temu, Shein and others have improved their shipping capabilities to Australia.

    Australian consumers send more than 200,000 tonnes of clothing to landfill each year. But the deeper problem is structural. The entire business model is built on exploitation and environmental damage.

    Factory workers bear the brunt of cost-cutting. In the race to stay competitive, many manufacturers reduce wages and overlook hazardous working conditions.

    Will ethical fashion ever compete?

    Fixing these problems will require a global rethink of how fashion operates.
    Governments have a role in regulating disclosures about supply chains and enforcing labour standards.

    Brands need to take responsibility for the conditions in their factories, whether directly owned or outsourced. Transparency is essential.

    Alternatives to fast fashion are gaining traction. Clothing rentals are emerging as a promising business model that help build a more circular fashion economy. Charity-run op shops have long been a sustainable source of second-hand clothing.

    Australia’s new Seamless scheme seeks to make fashion brands responsible for the full life of the clothes they sell. The aim is to help people buy, wear and recycle clothes in a more sustainable way.

    Consumers also matter. If we continue to expect clothes to cost less than a cup of coffee, change will be slow. Recognising that a $5 t-shirt has hidden costs, borne by people on the factory floor and the environment, is a first step.

    Some ethical brands are already showing a better way and offer clothes made under fairer conditions and with sustainable materials. These clothes are not as cheap or fast, but they represent a more conscious alternative especially for consumers concerned about synthetic fibres, toxic chemicals and environmental harm.

    Trump reshuffled the deck, but did not change the game

    Trump’s trade rules aim to re-balance global trade in favour of American industry, yet have cost companies more than US$34 billion in lost sales and higher costs. This cost will eventually fall on US consumers. In ultra-fast fashion, it mostly exposed how fragile and exploitative the system already was.

    Today, brands such as Shein and Temu are thriving in Australia. But unless we address the systemic inequalities in fashion production and rethink the incentives that drive this market, the true cost of cheap clothing will continue to be paid by those least able to afford it.

    Mona Mashhadi Rajabi receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand (AFAANZ), and a Business Research Grant from the University of Technology Sydney.

    Lisa Lake previously received funding from NSW Department of Education Innovation and Collaboration grant to establish the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Fashion + Textiles.

    Martina Linnenluecke receives funding from The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Australian Research Council. Her work is also supported by a Strategic Research Accelerator Grant from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

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

    – ref. How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry – https://theconversation.com/how-trumps-trade-war-is-supercharging-the-fast-fashion-industry-257727

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: PFMCrypto Announces Free and Sustainable Cloud Mining Technology for Bitcoin Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Los Angeles, California, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PFMCrypto, the cloud mining service operated by UK-registered and FCA-regulated Precision Financial Management Ltd (Company No. 11719896), has officially launched a sustainable mining platform that combines user-friendly cloud contracts with renewable energy. The company’s service allows users to participate in Bitcoin mining without owning hardware, while its operations are powered by solar and wind energy—minimizing environmental impact and reducing operational costs.

    As technology continues to evolve, the global shift toward renewable energy is accelerating. PFMCrypto powers its cloud mining operations using renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. This significantly reduces mining costs while returning excess electricity to the grid. This approach not only conserves energy but also delivers sustainable returns to investors—highlighting the enormous potential of green-powered mining.

    In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrencies, simplicity and profitability are key. For beginners seeking a reliable source of income, PFMCrypto’s cloud mining service is an especially appealing option.

    What Is PFMCrypto Cloud Mining?

    PFMCrypto cloud mining is a remote cryptocurrency mining solution that supports a range of digital assets, including Bitcoin. Users leverage the mining company’s computational power to earn profits without investing in hardware or handling technical maintenance. Through access to high-powered mining farms, PFMCrypto enables users to benefit from ongoing crypto mining rewards as complex blockchain problems are solved in real time.

    Key Benefits of PFMCrypto Cloud Mining

    Easy Investment: Users can invest effortlessly without complicated procedures.

    No Hardware Required: There’s no need to buy expensive mining equipment, lowering the barrier to entry.

    No Technical Expertise Needed: Ideal for beginners, with minimal technical requirements.

    Zero Operational Costs: No electricity, maintenance, or other overhead expenses for the user.

    Flexible and Reliable: Users can adjust their investment strategy according to their individual goals.

    Instant Start: interested users can quickly start mining without cumbersome preparations.

    Why Choose PFMCrypto?

    PFMCrypto is committed to clean and efficient energy solutions. Founded in 2018 in the UK, the platform has grown to serve more than 9.2 million users globally. Since its inception, the company has focused exclusively on Bitcoin mining. Today, PFMCrypto operates more than 20 large-scale mining farms and reportedly accounts for approximately 6.2% of the global mining hash rate.

    Platform Advantages

    Cutting-Edge Equipment: PFMCrypto uses top-tier mining hardware from manufacturers like Bitmain, Antminer, and other energy-efficient rigs to ensure stable and high-yield mining performance.

    Legal and Globally Trusted: Operated by FCA-regulated Precision Financial Management (PFM) Ltd, PFMCrypto complies with all UK financial regulations and serves a global user base of over 9.2 million real users.

    User-Friendly Interface: Designed with intuitive navigation so even beginners can easily manage their accounts.

    Multi-Crypto Support: Supports settlement in various popular cryptocurrencies including USDT-TRC20, BTC, ETH, LTC, USDC, BNB, USDT-ERC20, BCH, DOGE, SOL (Solana), XRP, and more.

    Stable Daily Returns: Mining contracts yield daily returns, with principal automatically refunded upon contract expiration to protect investment security.

    Expert Team: PFMCrypto boasts a professional IT team and 24/7 live customer support to assist users at all times.

    Affiliate Program: Invite friends and earn referral bonuses of up to $18,999.

    How to Join PFMCrypto

    1.Register: Sign up today and receive a $10 welcome bonus (plus $0.60 daily check-in rewards).

    2.Choose a Contract: After registering, select a mining contract that suits your goals and budget. PFMCrypto offers a range of plans to fit both new and seasoned miners.

    3.Start Earning: Once your mining contract is activated, the platform’s advanced technology handles the rest—ensuring your operation runs efficiently and maximizes your potential profits.

    Sample Investment Plans

    Trial Contract: Investment: $100 | Net Profit: $106.6

    Classic Contract: Investment: $500 | Net Profit: $530.75

    Classic Contract: Investment: $3,000 | Net Profit: $3,888

    Prepaid Contract: Investment: $5,000 | Net Profit: $7,370

    Advanced Contract: Investment: $10,000 | Net Profit: $17,240

    As your mining activity progresses, your account will begin to accumulate earnings. You can track performance through your dashboard and withdraw profits whenever you’re ready.

    In Summary

    PFMCrypto is a legally registered UK company authorized and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), adhering strictly to local regulations. The platform offers a seamless, low-barrier entry into crypto mining for both beginners and experienced investors, aiming to help users maximize their earnings with minimal effort.

    Start your hassle-free cloud mining journey with PFMCrypto and boost your income today! New users can get a $10 bonus.

    For more information, visit the official PFMCrypto website: https://pfmcrypto.net/ 

    Or download the mobile app from Google Play and the Apple App Store.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachael Murrihy, Director, The Kidman Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney

    Getty Images/ Wander Woman Collective

    Many parents will be familiar with this situation: your child has a good or even best friend, but you don’t like them.

    Perhaps the friend is bossy, has poor manners or jumps on your furniture. Maybe you don’t like the way your child behaves when they are with this friend.

    For older children, your dislike might relate to the friend’s language, attitude towards school, or risk-taking behaviours. Maybe the friend is hot and cold and elicits more drama than Mean Girls.

    What can parents do?



    Read more:
    How can you help your child make friends?

    You will have a protective instinct

    If you see your child being treated poorly, this can ignite a protective instinct in parents that manifests in a bodily “fight or flight” response.

    This provides a rush of adrenaline, which can spur parents to take actions such as criticising the friend or even attempting to ban the friendship.

    However, this approach can do more harm than good, particularly for adolescents who are hardwired to push back on their parents.

    What can you do for younger kids?

    With younger children, clear boundaries can be set at the outset of a playdate. For example, “my bedroom is off limits for playing” or “we don’t jump on the couch”.

    If kids are using mean or rude language around each other, you can say “we don’t use that word in this house, be kind to each other”.

    Playdates can be moved outside, which can be particularly helpful if a child shows loud, destructive or rude behaviour. And if you can help it, organise fewer plays with that child.

    But parents may also want to reflect on why this child rubs them the wrong way. Is the reaction warranted, or does it comes from your own biases and opinions? Your child’s friends do not have to be the friends you would choose.

    Change your approach for older kids

    To become successful adults, teens need to move through developmental milestones of becoming autonomous and self-reliant. Intervening in their friendships interferes with this vital process of developing independence and identity, which ultimately disempowers them.

    In the 1960s, US psychologist Diana Baumrind published famous research on parenting. She found an authoritarian style – where the parent exerts complete control and does not listen to the child’s needs – results in a child with less confidence and independence than one brought up in a household that has rules but is also responsive to their needs.

    Adopting an authoritarian approach to friends or potential partners also risks the “Romeo and Juliet” effect, whereby disapproval makes the child more attracted to that person.

    So, for teenagers and their friends, the approach should be more nuanced. The primary goal is to encourage the child to see the parent as a person to come to when they have problems. If parents are tempted to be critical, they could ask themself: is it in the best interests of your child to be controlled?

    It is important to let children make mistakes so they can learn from them. Learning about what they do and don’t want in relationships is a crucial life skill.



    Read more:
    ‘How was school today?’ How to help kids open up and say more than ‘fine’

    How can you talk about friendship?

    Fostering an open dialogue about friends and relationships can allow parents to have influence in a subtle and developmentally appropriate way.

    For younger children, you could use a quiet moment to ask questions like “what can you say to Charlotte if you don’t want to play her game anymore?” or “what’s a good way to deal with it if she is being too bossy?”

    For older children, ideally wait until your teen wants to connect, rather than launching into questions. Ask gentle, non-judgmental questions about their friendship, like “what do you like to do together?” or “tell me about what you have in common”.

    If they seem upset or uncomfortable in some way, resist the urge to dismiss or solve the problem. Simply listening is the key to helping the child work it out, so they feel supported but not judged.

    And remember, not all friendships last. As children move through school and grow, most will naturally make new friends and move on from old ones.

    Clearly, one exception to adopting a teen-led approach is when safety is at risk. If they are being bullied or abused in any form – even if the child is opposed – parents should step in and speak to the school or other relevant authorities.



    Read more:
    What can you do if your child is being bullied?

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

    – ref. What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends? – https://theconversation.com/what-can-you-do-if-you-dont-like-your-childs-friends-257353

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Diaz and Pocahontas

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in the counties of Jackson and Randolph to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and tornadoes occurring March 14-15 and also for those impacted by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding occurring April 2-22.

    Beginning Monday, June 9, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Diaz and Pocahontas to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    JACKSON COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Diaz City Hall 
    3401 S. Main St.
    Diaz, AR  72112

    Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, June 9
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    Closes Friday, June 20 at 4 p.m.

    RANDOLPH COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Black River Technical College, Room 101
    1410 Hwy. 304 E.
    Pocahontas, AR  72455

    Opens at 9 a.m., Monday, June 9
    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Closes Friday, June 20 at 6.p.m.

    The following DLOC locations are also open and continue to serve survivors:

    SHARP COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    City Hall – Cave City
    Conference Room
    201 S. Main St.
    Cave City, AR  72521

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    SHARP COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center 
    Hardy Fire Station
    203 Church St.
    Hardy, AR  72542

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the March storms is July 14, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 9, 2026.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the April storms is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, Raising the Standard for Gaming Handhelds

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • All-day comfort: Redesigned chassis is purpose-built to fit the hands like a real gamepad
    • Seamless software experience: New Xbox® software offers the best of Xbox and Windows PC gaming in one handheld
    • Efficiency and performance: Two new processors offer incredible AAA and indie gaming experiences

    LOS ANGELES, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) is proud to announce an all-new series of Ally handhelds built from the ground up with improved ergonomics and a seamless player-first user experience.

    Developed in partnership with the incredible team at Xbox, the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X offer best-in-class ergonomics and a full-screen Xbox experience that marries the best of Xbox and PC gaming in one cohesive package.

    “We wanted to take our handheld to the next level, but we could not do it alone.” said Shawn Yen, Head of the Consumer product team at ASUS. “This revolutionary partnership with Microsoft allowed us to forge a brand new device with ROG muscle and the soul of Xbox.”

    The ROG Xbox Ally sports an AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor with incredible power efficiency, while the ROG Xbox Ally X offers the new AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor for next-level gaming performance. Both launch holiday 2025 in select markets, with additional markets to follow.

    All-day comfort

    The ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X feature a completely redesigned chassis. Gaming on handheld is a very personal experience, and comfort in the hand is a key pillar of a well-designed device. With years of feedback on the original Ally and Ally X, the ROG Xbox Ally series offers a more comfortable grip than ever, inspired by Xbox. With a redesigned palm rest and texturing patterns to keep gamers locked on target, the ROG Xbox Ally series truly raises the bar for comfort with a handheld gaming device.

    The ROG Xbox Ally X also features impulse triggers, improving the haptics in supported games. These triggers allow for more nuance and immersion and are a feature that Xbox gamers have come to expect with their controllers. These devices are the most comfortable and immersive handhelds ever built by ROG.

    Seamless software experience

    While the ROG Armoury Crate Special Edition software made the original Ally easy to use, ROG and Xbox aimed to make handheld gaming even more seamless on Windows 11. “We wanted to create an authentic Xbox experience in a handheld form factor,” explained Roanne Sones, CVP at Xbox. “With ROG, we made it happen on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X.”

    As soon as players power on the device, they enter the full screen Xbox experience. Powered by Windows 11 underneath, this software has been optimized for the ROG Xbox Ally, reducing system overhead and offering easy joystick and button navigation. Quick access to settings and customizable widgets are available via Game Bar with a single press of the Xbox button. But with the full freedom of Windows 11 running under the hood, games and mods from other sources are still easily accessible. The ROG Xbox Ally series offers the power of Xbox, the craftsmanship of ROG, and the versatility of Windows, all in one cohesive device.

    Efficiency and performance

    The ROG Xbox Ally X features the new top-of-stack AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor, giving it plenty of horsepower even in AAA games. Combined with software optimizations from the new Xbox experience, the ROG Xbox Ally X stands ready to provide gamers with next-gen handheld performance.

    “Battery life is paramount on handhelds like the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X,” said Jack Huynh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of AMD. “The Ryzen Z2 series improves efficiency over the previous generation while still offering excellent performance in modern games.”

    The ROG Xbox Ally offers console-caliber performance with its AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor. At the same time, its ultra-efficient design at low wattages and its 60Wh battery produce improved battery life. Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally X takes performance to greater heights, offering more room for graphical fidelity at higher framerates with the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor.

    Both chips are primed to take full advantage of AMD’s latest software suite for graphics and performance improvements, including AMD FidelityFX™ Super Resolution (FSR), Radeon Super Resolution (RSR), and AMD Fluid Motion Frames (AFMF) frame generation, the latter of which can offer better framerates for improved smoothness.

    In a nod to the future, the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme-equipped ROG Xbox Ally X features an NPU. With these next-generation chips, the ROG Xbox Ally X will be ready to power the latest AI features as they are introduced.

    At launch this holiday, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will be available in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with availability to follow for other markets where ROG Ally series products are sold today.  

    For more information, please visit https://rog.asus.com/content/rog-xbox-ally/. Users can also sign up on the page to get notified when pre-orders go live.

    SPECIFICATIONS

    ROG Xbox Ally X (2025)

    Operating System Windows 11 Home
    Comfort & input Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort, complete with impulse triggers for enhanced control

    ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R impulse triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU
    Processor AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor
    Display 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9
    120Hz refresh rate
    FreeSync Premium
    Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® + Corning DXC Anti-Reflection
    Memory 24GB LPDDR5X-8000
    Storage 1TB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade
    Network and Communication Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth® 5.4
    I/O Ports 1x USB4® with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0, Thunderbolt™ 4 compatible

    1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C® with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0

    1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC; UHS-I with DDR200 mode)

    1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
    Battery 80Wh
    Dimensions 290.8 (W) x 121.5 (D) x 50.7 (H) mm
    Weight 715 grams
    Included ROG Xbox Ally X

    65W charger

    Stand

    ROG Xbox Ally (2025)

    Operating System Windows 11 Home
    Comfort & input Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort

    ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R Hall Effect analog triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU
    Processor AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor
    Display 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9

    120Hz refresh rate

    FreeSync Premium

    Corning® Gorilla® Glass Vitus® + Corning DXC Anti-Reflection
    Memory 16GB LPDDR5X-6400
    Storage 512GB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade
    Network and Communication WiFi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth® 5.4
    I/O Ports 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C® with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0

    1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC)

    1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
    Battery 60Wh
    Dimensions 290.8 (W) x 121.5 (D) x 50.7 (H) mm
    Weight 670 grams
    Included ROG Xbox Ally

    65W charger

    Stand

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    ROG Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asusrog

    ROG X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus_rog

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global Twitter: https://www.x.com/asus

    About ROG

    Republic of Gamers (ROG) is an ASUS sub-brand dedicated to creating the world’s best gaming hardware and software. Formed in 2006, ROG offers a complete line of innovative products known for performance and quality, including motherboards, graphics cards, system components, laptops, desktops, monitors, smartphones, audio equipment, routers, peripherals and accessories. ROG participates in and sponsors major international gaming events. ROG gear has been used to set hundreds of overclocking records and it continues to be the preferred choice of gamers and enthusiasts around the world. To become one of those who dare, learn more about ROG at http://rog.asus.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/589e47e6-72cf-472f-b58a-2d4425432efb

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Insider Takes Us Inside Trump and Musk’s Quiet Plan to Reboot America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — New briefing reveals the creation of a secret AI system designed to reshape the country’s infrastructure, governance, and future — starting July 1.

    Bestselling author and longtime tech analyst James Altucher has released a stunning new report that pulls back the curtain on what he calls “the most important project in America today” — and it has nothing to do with Washington.

    According to Altucher, Elon Musk is building a system called Project Colossus — a privately operated supercomputer that’s now being quietly positioned as the technological foundation of a new, AI-driven America.

    It All Started on Day One

    Altucher points to Donald Trump’s very first executive action in office as the moment this project became possible.

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That single move, Altucher says, eliminated regulatory bottlenecks and opened the floodgates for full-speed development by private operators — especially Musk.

    Hidden in Plain Sight

    “Right here, inside this warehouse in Memphis, Tennessee… lies a massive supercomputer Musk calls ‘Project Colossus.’”

    Altucher reports that the machine is already live, powered by 200,000 of Nvidia’s most advanced AI chips — with a tenfold upgrade scheduled for rollout by July 1.

    “Making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    The Mission: Replace the System

    According to Altucher, Colossus isn’t just designed to speed up processes — it’s meant to replace outdated decision-making structures altogether.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    Altucher warns that while most Americans are focused on politics-as-usual, the real transformation is happening behind firewalls — with Musk writing the code, and Trump clearing the path.

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author who has worked in artificial intelligence for over four decades. A contributor to IBM’s Deep Blue and an early AI pioneer on Wall Street, his latest briefings reveal the hidden buildout of America’s post-industrial, AI-powered infrastructure — and the forces quietly driving it.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Immortality at a price: how the promise of delaying death has become a consumer marketing bonanza

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Errmann, Senior Lecturer, Marketing & International Business, Auckland University of Technology

    Living forever has become the wellness and marketing trend of the 2020s. But cheating death – or at least delaying it – will come at a price.

    What was once the domain of scientists and the uber rich is increasingly becoming a consumer product. Those pushing the idea, spearheaded by tech billionaire Bryan Johnson’s “Don’t Die” movement, believe death isn’t inevitable, but is a solvable problem.

    The global longevity market – spanning gene therapies, anti-ageing drugs, diagnostics and wellness plans – is projected to hit US$610 billion this year. At its core, the marketing of these products feeds off the age-old fear of mortality and the desire to stay young.

    But while the marketing is reaching the masses, this is still very much a luxury product. Immortality is being sold as exclusive, aspirational and symbolic. It’s not just about living longer – it’s about signalling status, controlling biology and being your “best future self”.

    Tapping into long-held fears

    What’s known as “terror management theory” puts forward the idea that humans and other animals have an instinctive drive for self-preservation. But humans are not only self-aware, they are also able to anticipate future outcomes – including the inevitability of death.

    The messaging behind the push to extend life taps into this internal tension between knowledge of our own mortality and the self-preservation instinct. And to be fair, it is not a new phenomenon.

    Cryonics – the preservation of bodies and brains at extremely low temperatures with the hope medical advancements will allow for their revival at some point in the future – was first popularised in Robert Ettinger’s 1962 book The Prospect of Immortality.

    Since then, the super-rich have invested in various companies promising to preserve their bodies for some unknown future date. It now costs US$200,000 to freeze your body, or $80,000 for just your brain.

    What’s truly new is how death is being marketed – not as fate, but as a flaw. Longevity isn’t just about living longer; it’s about turning mortality into a design problem, something to delay, manage and eventually solve.

    “Biohacking” sells the idea that with the right data, tools and discipline, you can upgrade your biology – and become your best, most future-proof self.

    This pitch targets high-income consumers aged 30 to 60, people already fluent in the language of optimisation – a mindset focused on maximising performance, productivity and longevity through data.

    The brands behind the living forever movement sell control, optimisation and elite identity. Ageing becomes a personal failure. Anti-ageing is self-discipline. Consumers are cast as CEOs of their own health – tracking sleep, fixing their gut and taking supplements.

    From biohacks to consumer branding

    There are now more than 700 companies working in the longevity market. Startups such as Elysium Health and Human Longevity Inc. offer DNA testing, supplements and personalised health plans.

    These aren’t medical treatments – they’re sold as tools to age “smarter” or “slower” and are pitched with the language of control over what once might have seemed uncontrollable.

    Don’t Die’s Bryan Johnson spends over US$2 million annually on his personal anti-ageing experiment.

    But the real pitch is to consumers: buy back time, one premium subscription at a time. Johnson’s company Blueprint offers diagnostics, supplements and exercise routines bundled into monthly plans starting at $333 and climbing to over $1,600.

    Longevity products promise more than health. They promise time, control and even immortality. But the quest to live forever, or at least a lot longer, raises moral and ethical questions about who benefits, and what kind of world is being created.

    Without thoughtful oversight, these technologies risk becoming tools of exclusion, not progress. Because if time becomes a product, not everyone will get to check out at the same counter.

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

    – ref. Immortality at a price: how the promise of delaying death has become a consumer marketing bonanza – https://theconversation.com/immortality-at-a-price-how-the-promise-of-delaying-death-has-become-a-consumer-marketing-bonanza-257009

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Reflects on History of the AIDS Crisis: “That’s Why I Came Here. I Came to Fight.”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – During World Pride celebrations in the nation’s capital, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi paid a solemn visit to the AIDS Memorial Quilt display at St. Thomas’ Parish in Dupont Circle. The exhibit honors members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C. who died of AIDS in the 1980s and ’90s.

    Pelosi, a lifelong champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS, viewed panels created in memory of more than 30 chorus members, many lovingly sewn by grieving friends and family during the height of the epidemic.

    “At first, I thought a quilt was a bad idea. But I was wrong,” Speaker Emerita Pelosi said. “The art became the most unifying thing. You see someone’s story laid out before you—their grief, their joy, their love—and suddenly, you understand. That is the power of this movement.”

    Pelosi reflected on her decades-long advocacy, recalling her first speech on the House Floor about HIV/AIDS and the initial resistance she faced. “People said, ‘Why would you lead with that?’ And I said, ‘Because that’s why I came here. I came to fight.’”

    Read coverage of the visit below:

    The Advocate: Nancy Pelosi visits AIDS Quilt exhibit during WorldPride

    [John Casey, 6/8/25]

    In the hushed sanctuary of St. Thomas’ Parish in Dupont Circle, there is a sacred memorial in fabric and thread. During WorldPride, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., in partnership with St. Thomas’ and the National AIDS Memorial, unveiled a deeply personal display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt that includes panels for chorus members who were lost to the epidemic in the 1980s and ’90s.

    The exhibit features full quilt blocks and a companion photo display, honoring dozens of chorus members who died of AIDS complications. Some panels are decades-old, sewn by grieving loved ones at the height of the crisis. One in particular, the first made by and for chorus members, holds special meaning.

    “For us, this is not just history. These are our people,” said Michael Hughes, the chorus’s outreach manager, who has sung with the group for more than 20 years. “We estimate that about 100 members of our chorus died of AIDS. A hundred voices silenced.”

    The idea for the exhibit was sparked earlier this year after chorus members visited a local high school class reading Angels in America. “The students had no context for what life was like in the ’80s and ’90s,” Hughes explained. “We told them about the fear, about watching friends die, and about the quilt.”

    After that visit, chorus member Larry Cohen emailed Hughes with an idea and a question: What if they searched for quilt panels made in honor of their fallen members?

    “So we spent two and a half months digging into the National AIDS Memorial database, the Names Project records, and the digitized archives in the Library of Congress,” Hughes said. “We were able to confirm 33 individual chorus members who had panels made. Some we remembered personally.”

    The setting of St. Thomas’ Parish is itself part of the story. “During the AIDS crisis, only two or three churches in the city would even hold funerals for someone who had died of AIDS,” Hughes said. “St. Thomas’ was one of them.”

    On Friday night, the exhibit drew a special guest, House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, a longtime and fierce advocate in the fight against AIDS. Pelosi spent time with chorus members and viewed the panels while the group performed two songs in honor of her visit under the direction of Artistic Director Thea Kano.

    Addressing the chorus members, Pelosi recalled her own early skepticism about the quilt’s power. “At first, I thought a quilt was a bad idea,” she said. “But I was wrong. The beauty was in the art. And the art became the most unifying thing.”

    “People who may not think they have anything in common suddenly find that they do through these panels,” Pelosi continued. “You see someone’s story laid out before you, and the love they had in their lives. The grief, the anger, the joy, all of it. And it moves you.”

    Pelosi also reflected on the political and cultural battles of the time, and how vital the LGBTQ+ community’s activism was to making change.

    “When I made my first speech in Congress about HIV/AIDS, people said, ‘Why would you talk about that? Why would you lead with that?’” Pelosi recounted. “I said, because that’s why I came here. I came to fight.”

    “Yes, we worked to change policies, pass laws, allocate resources,” she said. “But the real miracle was the outside mobilization of the LGBTQ+ community who refused to be silent. That’s what made the difference. That’s what changed the world.”

    As Pride Month unfolds, the quilt serves as a memorial, a call to action, and a loving and prophetic testament to the quilt’s ability to humanize loss, to transform mourning into music.

    The AIDS Memorial Quilt exhibit is open to the public through Sunday at St. Thomas’ Parish. Daily visiting hours and more information are available at GMCW.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 392

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 392
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    225 PM EDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    District Of Columbia
    Maryland
    Northern and Central Virginia
    Far Eastern West Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 225 PM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop and
    further increase through late afternoon and evening, with damaging
    winds, hail, and tornadoes possible, especially near a warm front.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 75 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 20 miles north of Martinsburg WV to 20
    miles southeast of Richmond VA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 390…WW 391…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 25025.

    …Guyer

    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 392
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    225 PM EDT Sun Jun 8 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    District Of Columbia
    Maryland
    Northern and Central Virginia
    Far Eastern West Virginia
    Coastal Waters

    * Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 225 PM until
    1000 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop and
    further increase through late afternoon and evening, with damaging
    winds, hail, and tornadoes possible, especially near a warm front.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 75 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 20 miles north of Martinsburg WV to 20
    miles southeast of Richmond VA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 390…WW 391…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 25025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 392 TORNADO DC MD VA WV CW 081825Z – 090200Z
    AXIS..75 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    20N MRB/MARTINSBURG WV/ – 20SE RIC/RICHMOND VA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 65NM E/W /48WNW EMI – 18SE RIC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25025.

    LAT…LON 39687657 37297569 37297842 39687939

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 392 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (30%)

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

    Low (10%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (10%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Marine Economy Development Index Up 2.3% in 2024

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HAIKOU, June 8 (Xinhua) — China’s marine economic development index, a key indicator of the country’s progress in the sector, increased 2.3 percent year on year to 125.2 in 2024, showing robust development of the maritime sector.

    The index was released by China’s Ministry of Natural Resources on Sunday to mark World Oceans Day.

    Data show that in 2024, China’s maritime sector structure was further optimized and technological innovation capability was improved. The sub-index of marine economy optimization and upgrading in 2024 was 131, up 1.8 percent year on year.

    The ministry’s statistics also show that the added value of emerging marine industries grew 7.2 percent year-on-year in 2024. Marine-related companies raised 11.4 billion yuan (US$1.58 billion) in IPOs, accounting for 17 percent of the total funding for all IPO companies in China, indicating strong capital market activity in the maritime sector. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI LEADS CA COLLEAGUES IN OPPOSING AI MORATORIUM IN RECONCILIATION BILL

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, led a group of her California colleagues in sending a letter to Senate leadership, strongly objecting to the section of H.R. 1 that would impose a ten-year moratorium on state and local enforcement of their own artificial intelligence laws and regulations. 

    “This moratorium’s assumption—that the United States will be unable to lead the world in AI if states identify and implement measures to protect their citizens from potential AI harms—is misguided,” wrote the lawmakers. “It wrongly accepts the premise that identifying and addressing AI-specific risks and harms and imposing guardrails is counterproductive to being the world’s AI leader. Nothing is further from the truth. Common sense AI guardrails can propel innovation by building trust with consumers and future users, while promoting a fair, open, and competitive playing field.” 

    In the absence of a federal AI regulatory framework, California and other states across the nation are embracing common-sense safeguards that ensure innovation and competition can continue to thrive. As AI tools grow more sophisticated and more widely deployed, these state measures are crucial to promote safety and trust with consumers. The House-passed moratorium, spearheaded by Republicans, would strip states of their authority to respond to new and evolving AI risks—freezing vital consumer protections for a full decade.

    “We should not place consumers in harm’s way by pausing for a decade the good work that states have done and will continue to do,” the lawmakers continued. “Instead, let us work together in a bicameral, bipartisan fashion to create smart, tailored, and consensus-driven legislative solutions that empower Americans’ use of AI and automated decision systems.”

    Full text of the letter can be found below or HERE. 

    Dear Majority Leader Thune, Minority Leader Schumer, Chairman Cruz, and Ranking Member Cantwell:

    We are writing to express our strong objections to the section of H.R. 1 that would impose a sweeping ten-year moratorium on state and local enforcement of their own artificial intelligence (AI) laws and regulations.  

    As part of being the global AI leader, the United States must take the lead on identifying and setting common sense guardrails for responsible and safe AI development and deployment. To prevent states, including our state of California, from enforcing state AI regulations that provide such guardrails—particularly without any meaningful federal alternative—is inconsistent with the goal of AI leadership. This moratorium’s assumption—that the United States will be unable to lead the world in AI if states identify and implement measures to protect their citizens from potential AI harms—is misguided.  It wrongly accepts the premise that identifying and addressing AI-specific risks and harms and imposing guardrails is counterproductive to being the world’s AI leader. Nothing is further from the truth. Common sense AI guardrails can propel innovation by building trust with consumers and future users, while promoting a fair, open, and competitive playing field. 

    California is the fourth largest economy in the world in part because innovative technology companies, including 32 of the world’s 50 leading AI companies, call the state home. As a hub of AI activity, our state has been a national leader in ensuring that innovation and competition thrive alongside common-sense safeguards, starting with transparency. In our increasingly digital world, AI and other emerging technologies are rapid disruptors. To place a ten-year hold on state and local enforcement of their own AI laws, especially without federal alternatives, exposes Americans to a growing list of harms as AI technologies are adopted across sectors from healthcare to education, housing, and transportation. The resulting regulatory gap created by the AI moratorium in H.R. 1 would decimate the good work that California and other states, led by both Democrats and Republicans, have done, such as:

    • requiring transparency regarding training data or the use of AI to communicate with patients in medical settings
    • giving performers and their families rights over digital replicas of their likenesses
    • protecting American artists’ voice and likeness from unauthorized AI impersonations,
    • requiring employers to ensure AI-enabled employment decisions comply with civil rights laws,  and
    • requiring mental health platforms to disclose to users that they are interacting with an AI mental health chatbot, not a human therapist. 

    These examples and other proposed state legislation exemplify the mounting desire among AI experts and the American public to provide guardrails to promote AI safety, trust, and transparency.  This is an extension of bipartisan concerns over online safety and manipulative algorithms—issues that, if left unchecked, leaves Americans vulnerable to harms impacting their health, their jobs, their education, and ultimately, their lives. Now is the time for Congress to work on bipartisan legislation to address these harms. The House Republican ten-year moratorium, by contrast, would gut protections for the very people we represent. 

    This bill provision isn’t limited to state laws and regulations of new and emerging AI. It imposes a ten-year moratorium on laws and regulations regulating “automated decision making systems” which arguably covers any computer processing.  

    Furthermore, the provision covers state and local regulations of their own use of AI and of automated decision making systems, which will mean states and localities cannot impose procurement requirements on AI and computer systems that are different than those imposed on other technologies. Under this provision, they would not be allowed, for example, to adopt regulations imposing safeguards on education technology to be used in public schools or on AI systems that they want to use to improve the provision of government services.  That makes no sense at all.

    Late in the process, House Republicans added an exception to the ten-year moratorium for state and local laws to the extent they impose criminal penalties.  But that exception only underscores the absurd breadth of the 10-year moratorium.  Why should the federal government incentivize states and localities to adopt criminal penalties to deal with harms from AI models and systems, and automated decision-making systems, in instances where a civil penalty, breach of contract claim, injunctive relief or some other non-criminal remedy is more appropriate to address the problem at hand?

    We have already seen an outpouring of opposition to this moratorium, including bipartisan opposition from state attorneys general, state legislators, voters, and over 140 consumer advocacy, online safety, and civil rights groups.  The House Bipartisan AI Taskforce last Congress acknowledged the “risks” of enacting an AI moratorium on state activity and, instead, recommended that Congress “commission a study to analyze the applicable federal and state regulations and laws that affect the development and use of AI systems across sectors.” We should not place consumers in harm’s way by pausing for a decade the good work that states have done and will continue to do. We must learn from them. After all, we have had the opportunity to learn from five years’ worth of several state efforts to criminalize the sharing of non-consensual intimate imagery, real and AI-generated, to produce the TAKE IT DOWN Act that President Trump recently signed into law. Now is not the time to deny Congress the critical insight our states provide as laboratories of democracy. 

    Additionally, this moratorium is procedurally deficient, as it bears no relationship to the federal budget. House Republicans stretch credulity beyond its breaking point when claiming this moratorium is necessary to effectuate their reconciliation bill’s $500 million for the Department of Commerce to update its IT and cybersecurity systems. Under the Supremacy Clause, states cannot pass laws that restrict or impose obligations on the federal government, including the Department of Commerce and federal procurement rules governing agency IT systems.  Consequently, the moratorium does not impact the federal budget and must fall out as an “extraneous matter” prohibited, under the Senate Byrd Rule, from inclusion in a reconciliation bill. 

     

    As you take up the House Republicans’ reconciliation bill for consideration, we urge you to remove the AI moratorium provision. Instead, let us work together in a bicameral, bipartisan fashion to create smart, tailored, and consensus-driven legislative solutions that empower Americans’ use of AI and automated decision systems. We can learn from what the states—like California, New York, Tennessee, Utah, and many others—are doing to leverage the benefits of AI technologies while protecting consumers from their harms.

                                                    

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI SLAMS NEW BEAD GUIDANCE FROM DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, released the following statement after the Department of Commerce released new guidance regarding the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. 

    “The result of today’s announcement is simple: the Trump administration is delaying once-in-a-generation investments, blocking states from closing the digital divide and getting Americans online,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Congress was thoughtful and bipartisan when hammering out the details for BEAD, because we realize the stakes for getting connectivity right are sky high. We empowered our states and local communities to use their on-the-ground knowledge to ensure BEAD dollars go where they’re most needed. We have worked hard to ensure access, affordability, and adoption go hand in hand. This is a matter of necessity for our constituents. Reliable, high speed internet access dictates who succeeds and who is left behind in the modern economy.”

    “These new changes undo the states’ hard work, punt the broadband deployment timeline further down the line, and ultimately, drive up costs for consumers,” Matsui continued. “This delay is unacceptable. Americans, especially those in rural and underserved areas, are counting on this funding. The Trump Administration is clearly willing to leave everyday Americans behind – but I will continue to fight to ensure we deliver on our promises to close the digital divide.”

    Background:

    The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program provides $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs in all 50 states. In California, the BEAD program is being implemented by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). California was allocated over $1.8 billion to deploy or upgrade high-speed internet networks and close the digital divide. California is currently selecting the service providers that would deploy last mile broadband infrastructure to unserved and underserved communities. 

    Today, the Department of Commerce released new guidelines that would substantially delay broadband projects and increase costs to states by forcing all states to conduct at least another round of applications, rescinding all their preliminary and provisional awards. The new guidelines also would impose burdensome scoring requirements that would hamstring states’ flexibility to choose the right mix of technologies to provide the most reliable, scalable, and future-proof internet service available to a location. Additionally, the Trump administration’s changes would weaken or eliminate protections for affordability, good-paying jobs, climate-resilient networks, and a free and open internet. These changes will drive up costs for consumers while driving down the quality of service.

    For a more detailed breakdown of the entire BEAD process in California, click HERE.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ocean-friendly changes on Chinese island bring double benefits – ecological and economic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HANGZHOU, June 8 (Xinhua) — On a beach in Taizhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, 68-year-old Wang Zhongfu bends down to pick up discarded plastic bottles and torn fishing nets.

    Wang Zhongfu is one of thousands of participants in the Blue Circle marine plastic recycling program, which launched in 2020 and uses blockchain and the Internet of Things to track the full life cycle of marine plastic waste, from collection to remanufacturing and resale.

    The Blue Circle program, developed by the Zhejiang Provincial Bureau of Ecology and Environment and Zhejiang Lanjing Technology Co., Ltd., is the largest of its kind in the country.

    In 2023, the program won the United Nations /UN/ Champions of the Earth 2023 Award for Entrepreneurial Vision for its efforts to combat marine plastic pollution. According to the UN Environment Programme, the award is the UN’s highest environmental honour.

    “We are reducing the amount of plastic waste in the ocean and helping people earn extra income from collecting trash,” said Kong Chen, who runs the Blue Circle plastic waste collection station, known as Little Blue Home, located on Dachen Island, about 29 nautical miles off the coast of Taizhou. He noted that the station has removed more than 20 tons of marine waste in 2024.

    Blue Circle pays 0.20 yuan (almost 3 US cents) for each plastic bottle collected, a price several times higher than the market average, in an effort to supplement the incomes of many local residents.

    “This initiative motivates people to participate in environmental protection and increase their income. People who fish can consciously collect plastic waste while working in the sea,” said Kong Chen, noting that participants like Wang Zhongfu can earn about 1,000 yuan a month this way.

    People can trace the path of recycled plastic by scanning QR codes on products such as car parts, suitcases and phone cases made from certified ocean-bound plastic. Plastic waste is cleaned and processed into pellets for industrial use at Veolia Huafei Polymer Technology /Zhejiang/ Co., Ltd.’s plant in Anji County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province.

    “Since 2022, we have recycled tens of millions of plastic bottles collected through the Blue Circle program,” said Fu Xianwei, the company’s chief operating officer. He added that certified marine plastic pellets can sell for more than 1.3 times the price of regular recycled plastic, and products made from these pellets have higher added value.

    “Once fishermen make a profit and businesses are motivated, marine plastic waste management enters a virtuous cycle,” said Ye Zongsen, an official with the Jiaojiang District branch of Taizhou City’s Ecology and Environment Bureau.

    The initiative has expanded to all coastal areas of Zhejiang, and to date, about 1,360 residents, 10,000 vessels and seven recycling companies have joined in. In Zhejiang alone, the program has collected 15,000 tons of marine waste, including more than 2,900 tons of plastic waste. It has also expanded to seven other provinces, including China’s southernmost island province of Hainan.

    Dachen Island in Jiaojiang District is a model of green development. Dozens of wind turbines on the island’s mountain ridge generate an average of 60 million kWh of electricity per year, five times the island’s consumption, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tons.

    Excess electricity is sent to the mainland via undersea power cables, according to Jiang Weijian, director of the Dachen power station of State Grid Zhejiang Power Co.

    Green energy has led to many changes, including all-electric buses, electric oxygen and ice production in fisheries, and the gradual introduction of electric stoves in guest houses on the island.

    In addition, thanks to Dachen’s low-carbon solid waste treatment plant and sewage treatment plant, the proportion of high-quality water in coastal areas has reached 98%.

    As the island’s environment improves, tourism is booming. Last year, Dachen welcomed 200,000 tourists and earned 170 million yuan in revenue.

    “As the situation improves, our hotel business is booming,” said Dachen resident Kong Qinglei, who opened his business on the island in 2020. In 2024, his revenue exceeded 1 million yuan.

    The island also benefits from its marine resources. The island, famous for its pink salmon plantations, has 14 pink salmon farms, and its output reached 10,005 tons last year, worth more than 1.1 billion yuan. The fishing industry has created jobs for nearly 300 people.

    Local authorities are currently encouraging the development of the sea travel and souvenir industry. Some guest house owners are even combining their business with yellow croaker farming.

    The island is also a pioneer in trading “blue carbon” and forest carbon. “The funds were channeled into a common prosperity fund to protect the marine environment, as well as for the island’s marine farmers and residents,” said Yang Haifei, a spokesman for the island’s administration. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trump Taps Musk to “Rebuild Government from the Ground Up,” Says One Tech Insider

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a newly surfaced public briefing, bestselling author and tech analyst James Altucher reveals what he calls a “massive transfer of control” inside the federal government — one that began on Day One of President Trump’s return to the White House.

    According to Altucher, Trump isn’t just slashing bureaucracy — he’s outsourcing innovation to Elon Musk. The result is Project Colossus: a 200,000-chip AI supercomputer hidden inside a Memphis warehouse and operated entirely outside the traditional system.

    A Silent Power Shift — Signed by Trump

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That reversal, Altucher says, stripped away Biden’s AI restrictions — immediately giving private operators like Musk the runway to build freely.

    Trump then revealed Stargate, a $500 billion AI infrastructure initiative that, according to Altucher, is “not about building government… it’s about replacing it.”

    Musk’s AI Is Already Online

    “Right here, inside this warehouse in Memphis, Tennessee… lies a massive supercomputer Musk calls ‘Project Colossus.’”

    “Making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    Altucher claims that the system is already operational — and is expected to expand dramatically before July 1, when a major upgrade could “10X its power overnight.”

    Not Reform. Replacement.

    According to Altucher, Musk and Trump aren’t just reforming the system — they’re replacing it with autonomous intelligence designed to streamline decisions, reduce costs, and eliminate delay.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    Altucher warns that what began as an infrastructure story is fast becoming one of control — and that the real question now is: who governs the machines?

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author with four decades of experience in artificial intelligence. He studied at Cornell and Carnegie Mellon, helped develop IBM’s Deep Blue, and has built AI-powered systems for use in finance and enterprise. His latest briefings focus on how AI is being deployed beyond the public’s view — and who’s behind it.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tracking apps monitor remote employees’ performance — and invade their privacy

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Danielle E. Thompson, PhD Candidate, Sociology and Legal Studies, University of Waterloo

    Business owners and managers claim that monitoring apps improve worker productivity. (Shutterstock)

    Digital monitoring is now a regular part of our working reality. From CCTV cameras to call recording, surveillance in the workplace is not new.

    But workers now face a more detailed and intrusive type of monitoring that is less understood, and at times even entirely unknown, by employees: employee monitoring applications (EMAs).

    It’s no longer just about being captured in the frame of a CCTV camera or having phone calls recorded. Workers now must be concerned about the collection of any and all activities that occur on their devices, and the use of this information to make decisions about their productivity, performance and risk to company security.

    Behaviour-monitoring software

    EMAs are a type of monitoring software that can be installed on worker devices to monitor their behaviours and activities. Common features include tracking time, keyboard strokes, email communications, websites visited, applications used and webcam video footage. Many of these apps also operate in an “invisible mode” that runs in the background, unknown to the employee.

    Amid the move to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada, employers faced the challenge of managing their employees while they worked from home. EMAs provided employers with a quick and easy solution.



    Read more:
    Remote work requires us to reconsider how to evaluate and pay employees

    My research focuses on surveillance and privacy. Working alongside surveillance scholar Adam Molnar of the University of Waterloo, we conducted a survey between January and February 2022 of 402 managers, supervisors and employers working in companies in Ontario (60 per cent), British Columbia (30 per cent) and Québec (10 per cent) to better understand the use of these apps during the pandemic.

    Both remote working and EMA use were found to have increased after the start of the pandemic. Many, but not all, companies turned to EMAs to monitor their remote workers.

    A comparison of remote work and use of EMA rates before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    (D.E. Thompson), CC BY

    Privacy concerns

    We asked participants about the specific EMA software their company uses. A variety of EMAs exist on the market and are advertised for uses from security to workforce analytics. The most frequently used apps in our sample were Kickidler (49.8 per cent), Spyera (49.5 per cent), Flexispy (49.3 per cent), and Teramind (48.4 per cent).

    We then took a deeper dive into their advertised features and found that all four apps collected data using at least two highly invasive features, such as video surveillance or keystroke logging.

    Table comparing features and uses for the top four employee monitoring applications.
    (D.E. Thompson), CC BY

    Collecting data in these ways can raise serious concerns for employee privacy, especially when they work at home — a space that is typically viewed as private and often contains personal information that employers should not be privy to.

    If we’re concerned about employee privacy, then we need to understand exactly what companies are using the data for.

    We know that employee monitoring apps were adopted by many Canadian companies to manage remote workers, but what does that mean exactly? What is the data actually telling employers and how are they using it?

    We asked employers, managers and supervisors how their company currently uses EMAs, and found the most common uses to be productivity (28.9 per cent), efficiency (20.1 per cent), remote workforce management (19.9 per cent) and company analytics (18.2 per cent).

    Privacy versus productivity

    Owners and managers appear to be aware of the harmful consequences of these applications: 87.1 per cent were at least somewhat concerned about the negative impacts of these apps on employee trust. More than two-thirds — 70.7 per cent — also reported that they would be more likely adopt an app if it did not use invasive features like keystroke logging and video surveillance.

    Are the gains in productivity and efficiency worth the losses to employee privacy and trust? For some companies, the answer appears to be yes. While most owners and managers reported concerns about the invasiveness of EMAs, 51.7 per cent were still using the applications.

    For other companies, the gains in productivity are not worth the risks to employee privacy. For example, 29.3 per cent of owners and managers stated that significant changes to app features would be necessary before they would consider using it in their company.

    Protecting employees

    As hybrid working arrangements remain a normal part of our working lives, employee monitoring apps appear to be here to stay.

    A public opinion poll by the Center for Democracy and Technology in the United States found that American workers wanted to know why and how they were being monitored by their employers.

    Workers also felt they should be able to review any and all data collected about them, and that employers should be prohibited from sharing worker data without their permission, monitoring workers while off the clock, tracking their locations and monitoring productivity in ways that are harmful to the mental or physical health of workers.

    In Canada, the protection of employee privacy falls under a patchwork of federal and provincial laws that is insufficient for the management of EMAs.

    Worker protections vary by province and territory. Ontario’s Bill 88, passed in April 2022, established the first notification law for electronic monitoring in Canada. While a step in the right direction, notification alone is insufficient for the protection of worker privacy and well-being.

    Restrictions must be placed on the types of data collected, how it is collected and what it can be used for.

    Companies that continue to use EMAs must respect the privacy of workers by limiting the use of invasive features and providing workers with transparency and agency in their monitoring.

    Business owners considering the use of EMAs should ask themselves if the software is necessary to reach their goals. Do they need to track the location and activity of workers or access their webcams to determine productivity? Or are there other less harmful ways to measure performance, such as the quality of outputs and whether tasks are completed on time?

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

    – ref. Tracking apps monitor remote employees’ performance — and invade their privacy – https://theconversation.com/tracking-apps-monitor-remote-employees-performance-and-invade-their-privacy-256261

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada must take action to prevent climate-related migration

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Christopher Campbell-Duruflé, Assistant Professor, Lincoln Alexander School of Law, Toronto Metropolitan University

    As wildfire season begins, the destructive impacts of climate change are being felt across Canada. Several communities in northern Saskatchewan have been issued evacuation orders due to wildfires. In Manitoba, Pimicikamak Cree Nation worked to evacuate hundreds of people as wildfires closed in, while smoke from those fires caused air-quality issues across the country.

    It isn’t just wildfires threatening people’s homes and livelihoods. In May, 1,600 residents from the Kashechewan Cree First Nation in Northern Ontario evacuated again due to flooding of the Albany River, which happens almost every year.

    The 2018 United Nations Climate Conference called on all states to adopt “laws, policies and strategies” meant “to avert, minimize and address displacement related to the adverse impacts of climate change.”

    The figures are disquieting. By 2050, more than 140 million people could become internal climate migrants in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America alone, especially if action towards reaching net-zero carbon emissions continues to be insufficient.

    Canada is not spared: 192,000 people were evacuated in 2023 due to disasters made more severe by climate change, including floods and wildfires. As climate change leads to more extreme weather, temporary climate displacement could become permanent migration.

    Climate migration

    The World Bank defines internal climate migration as having to relocate for at least a decade to a location 14 kilometres or more away from your community because of climate impacts.

    Research I presented at the 2025 Canadian Association for Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Conference at Toronto Metropolitan University analyzed how Canada addresses the climate migration challenge in its submissions under the Paris Agreement, which requires parties to adapt to climate change.

    The Canadian government understated the reality of internal climate migration in its submissions under the 2015 Paris Agreement, which obscure the gravity of this phenomenon.

    One of those submissions is the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the cornerstone report each state party must present every five years. Canada’s NDC from 2021 recognizes that climate change harms certain populations more than others, but does not address temporary displacement, let alone internal climate migration.

    The Fort McMurray wildfires displaced more than 80,000 people in 2016, with its population declining 11 per cent between 2015 and 2018. Similarly, the 2019 Québec spring floods displaced more than 10,000 people and, in Sainte-Marie, hundreds of low-income families abandoned the city because they could not afford the reconstructed homes.

    A clear definition of internal climate migrants in Canada, robust data and better co-ordination among Indigenous, municipal, provincial and federal governments is needed.

    This is something a National Adaptation Act could deliver, as a part of a comprehensive framework to bolster adaptation action across the country.

    Transparency lacking

    Canada submitted an adaptation communication in 2024. The communication discusses climate impacts but mentions internal displacement only once. It contains no data or discussion of when displacement becomes permanent, nor does it focus on the disproportionate impact on equity-deserving groups.

    The government submitted an updated NDC earlier this year. It noted “the devastating impact of wildfires, floods, drought and melting permafrost on communities across the country” but only briefly discusses adaptation, referring instead to the 2023 National Adaptation Strategy. The only mentions of displacement come in appended submissions by Indigenous Peoples, including Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation and Makivvik.

    Indigenous Peoples suffer from flawed adaptation policies and institutional barriers that prevent them from effectively responding to emergencies. As a result, First Nations evacuate 328 times more frequently than settler communities during climate disasters.

    In 2011, for example, officials in Manitoba diverted flood waters to Lake St. Martin to protect urban, cottage and agricultural properties. In the process, they flooded 17 First Nations and displaced 4,525 people. Return of the 1,400 residents of the Lake St. Martin First Nation to a new location only started in 2017, and as recently as 2020 displaced families were protesting on highways for their right to housing.

    A national adaptation act

    Canada should adopt a clear definition of internal climate migrants that captures displacement from climate disasters and slow-onset phenomena like sea-level rise, permafrost thaw and biodiversity loss.

    UN experts released a Technical Guide on Human Mobility in 2024, calling for “a sound evidence base on the patterns and trends, as well as on the drivers and outcomes” of climate-induced mobility. It also highlighted the need for adaptation efforts “that are informed by stakeholder consultations” and “existing (Indigenous) adaptation practices.”

    Defining internal climate migrants would allow Canada to gather robust data at last, and to act decisively on it.

    One first step is the federal government’s pledge of a National Recovery Strategy by 2028, which would set out “shorter time frames for displaced individuals to be able to return to their homes or resettle after climate change disaster events.” But a comprehensive approach is needed to go beyond the fragmented landscape of federal and provincial strategies.

    The Canadian government should work with all stakeholders toward the adoption of a National Adaptation Act, like Brazil, Germany and Japan.

    Such a law could remove barriers to Indigenous adaptation action, co-ordinate efforts across orders of governments to prevent displacements, define internal climate migration, ensure data collection and protect the rights of people temporarily displaced or internally migrating because of climate change.

    It should also aim for greater transparency and accountability than what Canada has so far achieved with its Paris Agreement submissions.

    Christopher Campbell-Duruflé receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada for his research. He serves on the Legal Committee of the Centre québécois du droit de l’environnement.

    – ref. Canada must take action to prevent climate-related migration – https://theconversation.com/canada-must-take-action-to-prevent-climate-related-migration-257607

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hainan launches South China Sea Tsunami Early Warning Center

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HAIKOU, June 8 (Xinhua) — The South China Sea Tsunami Early Warning Center began operation in south China’s Hainan Province on Sunday, aiming to provide early warning services on marine disasters to countries in the region.

    The center, headquartered in the coastal city of Sanya during its trial operation, was set up by the National Marine Environment Forecasting Center and the Hainan Provincial Ocean Administration. It aims to develop a comprehensive multi-functional early warning system for tsunamis, marine heat waves, harmful algal blooms and other natural disasters.

    The Centre also aims to become a platform for international cooperation in the field of marine forecasting and warning.

    In addition, on the same day, the National Deep-Sea Testing Site was launched in Sanya to support deep-sea fundamental scientific research, original deep-sea technological innovation and the development of related industries.

    The SCS region is prone to tsunamis and other marine hazards due to its complex tectonic background, including active fault lines and frequent underwater earthquakes in nearby areas. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: SkyCrest Capital Announces Completion of SAX-iCore Upgrade for AI Trading System SkyAlpha X, Secures $150 Million in Institutional Orders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, UT, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SkyCrest Capital officially announced today that its core AI trading system, SkyAlpha X, has successfully completed a comprehensive upgrade to its third-generation architecture, launching the institutional-grade version SAX-iCore (SkyAlpha X Institutional Core). This upgrade marks SkyAlpha X’s entry into a new era that balances high-frequency trading, cross-market arbitrage, and structured asset management, quickly drawing significant attention from international markets.

    According to SkyCrest Capital’s technical and business teams, SAX-iCore has so far secured procurement intentions and signed orders from global hedge funds, quantitative institutions, and crypto-financial platforms, totaling $150 million. These include:

     • A cross-asset hedge fund based in New York managing over $4.5 billion in assets, which has formally signed an integration agreement to deploy SAX-iCore for strategy automation in the U.S. equities and ETF options markets.

     • A digital asset market maker in Singapore, which has embedded SAX-iCore as the core execution module in its DEX liquidity engine, mainly for perpetual contract arbitrage and volatility trading.

     • An asset management firm in London that has signed a cooperation agreement for the AI-driven options volatility detection module, planning to integrate SAX-iCore into its global macro hedge strategies.

    Key highlights of the upgrade include:

     • Structured Volatility Engine (SVE): Detects breakout windows hidden within intraday price behavior, adaptable to index futures, tech stocks, and cryptocurrencies.

     • Cross-Market Signal Coordination System: Enables strategic integration across U.S. equities, crypto, and options markets for trend capture, volatility arbitrage, and macro alerts.

     • Smart Capital Flow Radar (SCF-Radar): Tracks institutional build-up and withdrawal paths to construct real-time capital behavior maps, enhancing trend confirmation efficiency.

     • Options Anomaly Volatility Alert Module: Combines implied volatility shifts with Gamma risk identification to significantly improve strategic responsiveness and defense ahead of market events.

    Dr. Ross, Founder and Chief Science Officer of SkyCrest Capital, stated:

    “SAX-iCore is not a mere upgrade of a traditional trading system, but a deep response to the increasingly interconnected multi-market environment. We’ve made breakthroughs not only at the algorithmic level but also ensured the system evolves in sync with real-world trading structures-this enables us to provide institutional investors with faster, more penetrative strategic decision engines amid globally intensifying asset volatility.”

    Since its initial launch in 2021, SkyAlpha X has delivered structured trading insights for stocks, futures, options, and crypto assets to SkyCrest’s strategy teams and institutional partners. As the flagship module of the platform’s 3.0 phase, SAX-iCore will serve as the core infrastructure for high-frequency trading, global asset allocation, and AI-driven execution system integration.

    SkyCrest Capital is currently offering early access to SAX-iCore for select strategic partners and is opening a whitelist application process for high-net-worth clients to access strategic modules. Retail-focused modules and tiered signal services for high-frequency trading are planned for phased rollout.

    For further information, please contact:

    Media Contact

    SkyCrest Capital PR Department

    Website: https://www.skyskinla.com/

    Contact: Audrey Sinclair

    Email: service@skyskinla.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Presale Surges Past $3.8M as Final $6 Phase Nears Close

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, June 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The crypto community is buzzing as Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S) crosses a major milestone, raising $3.8 million in its ongoing presale. With over 11,000 participants already onboard and the token price still at just $6, this marks one of the most rapid early-stage raises of 2025.

    Built with a clear focus on speed, decentralization, and developer-ready infrastructure, Bitcoin Solaris is more than just another token—it’s a full-stack blockchain ecosystem gearing up for mainnet launch. The current phase of the presale is expected to end within days, ahead of the next price jump to $7.

    Why Bitcoin Solaris Is Outpacing the Crypto Pack

    Bitcoin Solaris was built to take the best of each and leave the problems behind.

    Here’s how it does that:

    • Combines Proof-of-Work and Delegated Proof-of-Stake for a dual-consensus model.
    • Runs up to 100,000 TPS on the Solaris Layer, with 2-second finality.
    • Secures its Base Layer with SHA-256, keeping it compatible with existing mining rigs.
    • Includes 21 rotating validators, ensuring decentralization with performance.

    Why Everyone Is Talking About It

    From top Telegram groups to influencer channels, the buzz around Bitcoin Solaris is only growing. The detailed breakdown by Ben Crypto highlights why this project stands out in a sea of overpromises. With real use cases, deep audits, and a scalable structure, the hype isn’t artificial—it’s earned.

    What makes this even more incredible? The presale isn’t even over yet.

    • Current phase: 6 (last day)
    • Current price: $6
    • Next phase: $7
    • Launch price: $20
    • Potential return: 1,900%
    • Already raised: $3.8 million

    This is being hailed as one of the shortest and most explosive presales in recent memory, and the countdown has officially begun.

    Core Features That Power the Frenzy

    At the heart of Bitcoin Solaris is one idea: speed without compromise. Let’s break down why it’s different:

    • Hybrid PoW/DPoS Consensus: Maintains decentralization while enabling speed.
    • Validator Rotation: Every 24 hours, keeping the system agile and secure.
    • Energy Efficiency: Uses 99.95% less power than Bitcoin.
    • Cross-Chain Bridges: Built-in support for interoperability with Solana and others.
    • Rust-Based Smart Contracts: Initially leveraging Solana tools for dApps and DeFi expansion.
    • Audited Infrastructure: Smart contracts have been fully reviewed by Cyberscope and Freshcoins for trust and security.

    This Is How Bitcoin Solaris Will Make People Rich

    Wealth isn’t made by buying late. It’s built by spotting what’s early—but solid. Bitcoin Solaris isn’t a copycat. It’s a new layer of infrastructure designed to generate value for real participants.

    The reward distribution model ensures that every piece of the network feeds back into the community:

    • 40% of rewards go to miners
    • 25% go to validators
    • 20% go to stakers
    • 10% funds for long-term development
    • 5% support community initiatives

    Unlike many coins where wealth consolidates at the top, BTC-S is structured to empower long-term holders, contributors, and those who participate early.

    Real Vision, Real Roadmap

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t pitching hope—it’s executing a plan. Here’s the official roadmap:

    Bitcoin Solaris Roadmap Summary

    • Phase 1 (Q2–Q4 2025): Token generation, whitepaper, core devs, and presale launch
    • Phase 2 (Q1 2026): Testnet, wallet, bridge integration, architecture optimization
    • Phase 3 (Q2 2026): Final mainnet prep, dev tools, exchange listings
    • Phase 4 (Q3 2026): Mainnet launch, AI-powered app release, governance rollout
    • Phase 5 (Q4 2026): DApp accelerator, Mining Power Marketplace, hardware wallet integration
    • Phase 6 (Q1–Q2 2027): Layer-2 upgrades, DEX, and quantum security
    • Phase 7 (Q3–Q4 2027): Fortune 500 partnerships, institutional tools, Innovation Labs
    • Phase 8 (2028+): AI integration, government collaborations, long-term evolution

    That’s not just a vision board—it’s an execution framework already in motion.

    The Final Surge Is On

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just another token looking for attention. It’s a serious infrastructure play backed by smart tech, audited code, and a growing army of supporters. With $3.8 million raised and momentum accelerating, this is one of the few presales that feels like more than a hype train.

    And with the price still sitting at just $6 for a very short time—this might be the final opportunity to ride the wave before it takes off.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
     Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
     X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Bitcoin Solaris. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
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    The MIL Network –

  • Health Minister Nadda launches FSSAI’s ‘Stop Obesity’ campaign on World Food Safety Day 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda on Saturday addressed the World Food Safety Day 2025 event, themed “Stop Obesity by Eating Safe and Healthy,” held at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru. Organized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the event emphasized the critical role of food safety and nutrition in combating obesity and non-communicable diseases.

    The event saw the launch of FSSAI’s “Awareness Initiative to Stop Obesity” under the Eat Right India programme, aimed at raising nationwide awareness about the health risks of obesity. Nadda highlighted the alarming rise in obesity, citing the ICMR–India Diabetes (INDIAB) study, which reported a 39.6% increase in urban India and a 23.1% increase in rural areas between 2008 and 2020. He warned that by 2050, one-third of India’s population could be obese if current trends persist.

    “For a Viksit Bharat, a healthy India is necessary, and that can be ensured through the right types of food, healthy food habits, and lifestyle,” Nadda said. He urged stakeholders to support the Prime Minister’s call to reduce oil consumption by 10% and emphasized the need to revive traditional foods like millets. He also stressed the vulnerability of children to unhealthy food marketing and called for early awareness to foster better dietary habits.

    The campaign promotes inclusivity with communication materials in regional languages and sign language, alongside media outreach through FM radio, railway announcements, and digital platforms. A video featuring chef Ranveer Brar supporting the campaign was also released. Additionally, Nadda launched the Eat Right Activity Book – Your Guide to Eat Right at School, a resource under the Eat Right School initiative, designed to engage schoolchildren in learning about food safety, hygiene, and nutrition through age-appropriate activities.

    Nadda praised FSSAI’s innovative “Sugar and Oil Boards,” visual tools placed in schools, workplaces, and public spaces to highlight hidden sugars and fats in everyday foods. He suggested incorporating calorie intake information to enhance their impact and advocated for including food safety awareness in school curricula.

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese island’s ocean-friendly changes deliver dual gains in ecology, economy

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

    HANGZHOU, June 8 — On a stretch of beach in Taizhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Wang Zhongfu, 68, bends to pick up discarded plastic bottles and tattered fishing nets.

    Wang is one of thousands participating in Blue Circle, a marine plastic recycling program that, initiated in 2020, utilizes blockchain technology and the Internet of Things to track the full life cycle of marine plastic waste — from collection to remanufacturing and resale.

    Developed by Zhejiang Province’s Department of Ecology and Environment and Zhejiang Lanjing Technology Co., Ltd., Blue Circle is the country’s largest program of its kind.

    In 2023, it received the United Nations 2023 Champions of the Earth award in the category of Entrepreneurial Vision for its efforts to tackle marine plastic pollution. According to the UN Environment Programme, the award is the UN’s highest environmental honor.

    “We reduce plastic waste in the ocean and help people get additional income from waste collection,” said Kong Chen, who oversees a Blue Circle plastic waste station known as Little Blue Home, located on Dachen Island, some 29 nautical miles from Taizhou’s coast. He noted that the station transported over 20 tonnes of marine waste in 2024.

    Blue Circle pays 0.20 yuan (almost 3 U.S. cents) for every plastic bottle collected — a price several times higher than the market average. This is designed to supplement the incomes of many locals.

    “The initiative motivates people to join in on environmental protection and improve their incomes. People out fishing can consciously collect plastic waste while working on the sea,” Kong said, noting that participants like Wang can earn some 1,000 yuan this way each month.

    People can trace the journey of recycled plastic by scanning QR codes on goods, such as car parts, suitcases, and phone cases, made from certified plastic collected from the ocean. The plastic waste is cleaned and processed into granules for industrial use at Veolia Huafei Polymer Technology (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd. in Anji County, Zhejiang’s Huzhou City.

    “Since 2022, we have processed tens of millions of plastic bottles from Blue Circle,” said Fu Xianwei, the company’s operations director. Fu added that certified marine plastic granules can sell for over 1.3 times the price of regular recycled plastic, and products made from these granules have higher added value.

    “Once fishermen can profit and businesses are motivated, marine plastic waste management enters a virtuous cycle,” said Ye Zongsen, an official of the Jiaojiang district branch of the Taizhou Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau.

    The initiative has expanded across Zhejiang’s coastal areas, with approximately 1,360 residents, 10,000 vessels and seven recycling companies joining to date. In Zhejiang alone, the program has collected 15,000 tonnes of marine waste, including over 2,900 tonnes of plastic waste. It has also spread to seven other provinces, including China’s southernmost island province of Hainan.

    Dachen Island in Jiaojiang District is a model of marine-friendly development. Dozens of wind turbines atop the island’s ridge generate an average of 60 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, which is five times the amount the island consumes, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tonnes.

    Surplus electricity is delivered to the mainland via undersea power cables, according to Jiang Weijian, director of the Dachen Power Supply Station of State Grid Zhejiang Power Co., Ltd.

    Green power has spurred many changes, including all-electric buses, electric oxygen and ice production in fisheries, and the gradual use of electric stoves in guesthouses on the island.

    Additionally, Dachen’s low-carbon solid waste treatment station and wastewater treatment plant have increased the top water quality proportion in nearshore areas to 98 percent.

    As its environment improves, the island is seeing a tourism boom. Last year, Dachen welcomed 200,000 tourists and raked in 170 million yuan in related revenue.

    “As the scenery improves, our B&B business is thriving,” said Dachen resident Kong Qinglei, who started his B&B business on the island in 2020. Its revenue exceeded 1 million yuan in 2024.

    The island is also capitalizing on its marine resources. Famous for its yellow croaker, the island has 14 yellow croaker farming companies and its production hit 10,005 tonnes last year — an amount worth over 1.1 billion yuan. The industry has created fishing jobs for nearly 300 people.

    Local authorities are now encouraging the development of maritime leisure travel and souvenir industries. Some guesthouse owners are even combining their businesses with yellow croaker farming.

    The island is also pioneering the blue carbon and forest carbon trade. “Funds have been directed to a common prosperity fund for marine protection, and to marine farmers and island residents,” said Yang Haifei, a township official on the island.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Delving into deep sea: China joins global scientists in exploring hadal zone

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

    A pioneering international initiative for hadal zone exploration, led by Chinese scientists, has received official approval from the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).

    The Global Hadal Exploration Programme (GHEP), spearheaded by Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering (IDSSE) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), aims to transform fragmented hadal research into a coordinated global mission to explore, understand and protect the planet’s most inaccessible marine ecosystems.

    The hadal zone comprises primarily of ocean trenches, particularly from a depth of 6,000 meters to the bottom of the ocean up to about 11,000 meters. The hadal environment is characterized by extreme depths and pressures, darkness, low temperatures, frequent earthquakes, and peculiar living forms.

    For a long time, the hadal trenches have been among the most under-explored and mysterious areas on Earth due to technological limitations.

    China has been a key driver of deep-sea exploration over the past decade through sustained sci-tech advancements. In 2014, the CAS launched the Hadal Science and Technology Program, followed by a historic dive to the Mariana Trench’s 10,000-meter depths in 2016. By 2022, the CAS initiated the Global Trench Dive and Exploration Programme, leveraging its cutting-edge manned submersible Fendouzhe (Striver) and the Tansuo research vessels.

    “Venturing deeper is about understanding our ocean so we can coexist with it,” said Du Mengran, a lead researcher at IDSSE.

    “Global cooperation in these ‘untouched zones’ will redefine the boundaries of marine science and provide critical knowledge for deep-sea conservation and sustainable use,” she said.

    To date, Chinese scientists have collaborated with 145 researchers from 10 countries, exploring nine hadal trenches worldwide, including the Mariana, the Kermadec and Puysegur trenches.

    Starting from this year, GHEP will unify international research on extreme environments, life evolution, and geological processes in the hadal zone. The program will establish international research hubs, organize joint deep-diving expeditions, and host regular symposia while offering training and open access to samples, data, and facilities — particularly for young scientists, Du added.

    GHEP brings together research institutions from New Zealand, Denmark, Germany, Chile, France, Indonesia, Brazil, Russia, India, Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Portugal and other countries. 

    MIL OSI China News –