Category: Technology

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indian National Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Elderly Victims in Excess of $2M

    Source: US FBI

    WILMINGTON, Del. – Acting U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Hanson announced today that Rakeshkumar Patel, age 36, of Flushing, New York, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy for his role in an elder fraud scam targeting older Americans.  The Honorable U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews accepted the plea. 

    According to court documents, between at least May 2023 and May 2024, the defendant, who was in the U.S. illegally, conspired with others to defraud elderly victims in Delaware and throughout the country of at least $2,154,889.  The victims were contacted over the phone by fraudsters posing as federal agents.  The fraudsters convinced each victim that their identity had been compromised and that they were the subject of a federal investigation.  To cooperate with the fake federal investigation, the victims were instructed to liquidate their life savings and convert those savings into cash or gold bars.  The victims were then directed to deliver that cash or gold to couriers posing as federal agents—like the defendant—who picked up the cash or gold from the victims’ residences or other public places.

    “The Department’s Elder Justice Initiative is committed to protecting elderly victims from being swindled out of their hard-earned life savings by bad actors like Patel,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Hanson.  “Together, with our law enforcement partners, my office will continue to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who scam the elderly for financial gain.  We encourage all members of the public to remain vigilant against these scams.  If you think you or a loved one may have been defrauded, make a report to law enforcement immediately.”

    “When you talk to victims, you see and hear how gut wrenching and devastating these scams are. They’re often facing deep financial anxiety and are emotionally distressed, with the aftereffects weighing heavy on all aspects of their lives,” says FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Bill DelBagno. “The FBI and our partners are working steadfastly every day to educate the public to avoid these scams and to identify, disrupt, and bring to justice those committing these appalling crimes.”

    If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available through the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).  You can also report fraud to any local law enforcement agency or on the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

    The FBI requests victims report:

    • The name of the person or company that contacted you.
    • Methods of communication used, including websites, emails, and telephone numbers.
    • Any bank account number(s) to which you wired funds and the recipient’s name(s).
    • The name and location of the metal dealer company and the account to which you wired funds, if you were instructed to buy precious metals.

    As a result of Patel’s guilty plea to the wire fraud conspiracy, he faces more than five years in federal prison when sentenced.  Judge Andrews will determine the defendant’s sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    This case was investigated by FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Wilmington Resident Agency.   Assistant U.S. Attorneys William E. LaRosa and Alexander P. Ibrahim are prosecuting the case. 

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-CR-46.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Global: The biggest barrier to AI adoption in the business world isn’t tech – it’s user confidence

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Greg Edwards, Adjunct Lecturer, Missouri University of Science and Technology

    Believe in your own decision-making. Feodora Chiosea/Getty Images Plus

    The Little Engine That Could wasn’t the most powerful train, but she believed in herself. The story goes that, as she set off to climb a steep mountain, she repeated: “I think I can, I think I can.”

    That simple phrase from a children’s story still holds a lesson for today’s business world – especially when it comes to artificial intelligence.

    AI is no longer a distant promise out of science fiction. It’s here and already beginning to transform industries. But despite the hundreds of billions of dollars spent on developing AI models and platforms, adoption remains slow for many employees, with a recent Pew Research Center survey finding that 63% of U.S. workers use AI minimally or not at all in their jobs.

    The reason? It can often come down to what researchers call technological self-efficacy, or, put simply, a person’s belief in their ability to use technology effectively.

    In my research on this topic, I found that many people who avoid using new technology aren’t truly against it – instead, they just don’t feel equipped to use it in their specific jobs. So rather than risk getting it wrong, they choose to keep their distance.

    And that’s where many organizations derail. They focus on building the engine, but don’t fully fuel the confidence that workers need to get it moving.

    What self-efficacy has to do with AI

    Albert Bandura, the psychologist who developed the theory of self-efficacy, noted that skill alone doesn’t determine people’s behavior. What matters more is a person’s belief in their ability to use that skill effectively.

    In my study of teachers in 1:1 technology environments – classrooms where each student is equipped with a digital device like a laptop or tablet – this was clear. I found that even teachers with access to powerful digital tools don’t always feel confident using them. And when they lack confidence, they may avoid the technology or use it in limited, superficial ways.

    The same holds true in today’s AI-equipped workplace. Leaders may be quick to roll out new tools and want fast results. But employees may hesitate, wondering how it applies to their roles, whether they’ll use it correctly, or if they’ll appear less competent – or even unethical – for relying on it.

    Beneath that hesitation may also be the all-too-familiar fear of one day being replaced by technology.

    Going back to train analogies, think of John Henry, the 19th-century folk hero. As the story goes, Henry was a railroad worker who was famous for his strength. When a steam-powered machine threatened to replace him, he raced it – and won. But the victory came at a cost: He collapsed and died shortly afterward.

    Henry’s story is a lesson in how resisting new technology through sheer willpower can be self-defeating. Rather than leaving some employees feeling like they have to outmuscle or outperform AI, organizations should invest in helping them understand how to work with it – so they don’t feel like they need to work against it.

    Relevant and role-specific training

    Many organizations do offer training related to using AI. But these programs are often too broad, covering topics like how to log into different programs, what the interfaces look like, or what AI “generally” can do.

    In 2025, with the number of AI tools at our disposal, ranging from conversational chatbots and content creation platforms to advanced data analytics and workflow automation programs, that’s not enough.

    In my study, participants consistently said they benefited most from training that was “district-specific,” meaning tailored to the devices, software and situations they faced daily with their specific subject areas and grade levels.

    Translation for the corporate world? Training needs to be job-specific and user-centered – not one-size-fits-all.

    The generational divide

    It’s not exactly shocking: Younger workers tend to feel more confident using technology than older ones. Gen Z and millennials are digital natives – they’ve grown up with digital technologies as part of their daily lives.

    Gen X and boomers, on the other hand, often had to adapt to using digital technologies mid-career. As a result, they may feel less capable and be more likely to dismiss AI and its possibilities. And if their few forays into AI are frustrating or lead to mistakes, that first impression is likely to stick.

    When generative AI tools were first launched commercially, they were more likely to hallucinate and confidently spit out incorrect information. Remember when Google demoed its Bard AI tool in 2023 and its factual error led to its parent company losing US$100 billion in market value? Or when an attorney made headlines for citing fabricated cases courtesy of ChatGPT?

    Moments like those likely reinforced skepticism – especially among workers already unsure about AI’s reliability. But the technology has already come a long way in a relatively short period of time.

    The solution to getting those who may be slower to embrace AI isn’t to push them harder, but to coach them and consider their backgrounds.

    What effective AI training looks like

    Bandura identified four key sources that shape a person’s belief in their ability to succeed:

    1. Mastery experiences, or personal success

    2. Vicarious experiences, or seeing others in similar positions succeed

    3. Verbal persuasion, or positive feedback

    4. Physiological and emotional states, or someone’s mood, energy, anxiety and so forth.

    In my research on educators, I saw how these concepts made a difference, and the same approach can apply to AI in the corporate world – or in virtually any environment in which a person needs to build self-efficacy.

    In the workplace, this could be accomplished with cohort-based trainings that include feedback loops – regular communication between leaders and employees about growth, improvement and more – along with content that can be customized to employees’ needs and roles. Organizations can also experiment with engaging formats like PricewaterhouseCoopers’ prompting parties, which provide low-stakes opportunities for employees to build confidence and try new AI programs.

    In “Pokemon Go!,” it’s possible to level up by stacking lots of small, low-stakes wins and gaining experience points along the way. Workplaces could approach AI training the same way, giving employees frequent, simple opportunities tied to their actual work to steadily build confidence and skill.

    The curriculum doesn’t have to be revolutionary. It just needs to follow these principles and not fall victim to death by PowerPoint, or end up being generic training that isn’t applicable to specific roles in the workplace.

    As organizations continue to invest heavily in developing and accessing AI technologies, it’s also essential that they invest in the people who will use them. AI might change what the workforce looks like, but there’s still going to be a workforce. And when people are well trained, AI can make both them and the outfits they work for significantly more effective.

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

    ref. The biggest barrier to AI adoption in the business world isn’t tech – it’s user confidence – https://theconversation.com/the-biggest-barrier-to-ai-adoption-in-the-business-world-isnt-tech-its-user-confidence-257308

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Prime numbers, the building blocks of mathematics, have fascinated for centuries − now technology is revolutionizing the search for them

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeremiah Bartz, Associate Professor of Mathematics, University of North Dakota

    Prime numbers are numbers that are not products of smaller whole numbers. Jeremiah Bartz

    A shard of smooth bone etched with irregular marks dating back 20,000 years puzzled archaeologists until they noticed something unique – the etchings, lines like tally marks, may have represented prime numbers. Similarly, a clay tablet from 1800 B.C.E. inscribed with Babylonian numbers describes a number system built on prime numbers.

    As the Ishango bone, the Plimpton 322 tablet and other artifacts throughout history display, prime numbers have fascinated and captivated people throughout history. Today, prime numbers and their properties are studied in number theory, a branch of mathematics and active area of research today.

    A history of prime numbers

    Some scientists guess that the markings on the Ishango bone represent prime numbers.
    Joeykentin/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    Informally, a positive counting number larger than one is prime if that number of dots can be arranged only into a rectangular array with one column or one row. For example, 11 is a prime number since 11 dots form only rectangular arrays of sizes 1 by 11 and 11 by 1. Conversely, 12 is not prime since you can use 12 dots to make an array of 3 by 4 dots, with multiple rows and multiple columns. Math textbooks define a prime number as a whole number greater than one whose only positive divisors are only 1 and itself.

    Math historian Peter S. Rudman suggests that Greek mathematicians were likely the first to understand the concept of prime numbers, around 500 B.C.E.

    Around 300 B.C.E., the Greek mathematician and logician Euler proved that there are infinitely many prime numbers. Euler began by assuming that there is a finite number of primes. Then he came up with a prime that was not on the original list to create a contradiction. Since a fundamental principle of mathematics is being logically consistent with no contradictions, Euler then concluded that his original assumption must be false. So, there are infinitely many primes.

    The argument established the existence of infinitely many primes, however it was not particularly constructive. Euler had no efficient method to list all the primes in an ascending list.

    Prime numbers, when expressed as that number of dots, can be arranged only in a single row or column, rather than a square or rectangle.
    David Eppstein/Wikimedia Commons

    In the middle ages, Arab mathematicians advanced the Greeks’ theory of prime numbers, referred to as hasam numbers during this time. The Persian mathematician Kamal al-Din al-Farisi formulated the fundamental theorem of arithmetic, which states that any positive integer larger than one can be expressed uniquely as a product of primes.

    From this view, prime numbers are the basic building blocks for constructing any positive whole number using multiplication – akin to atoms combining to make molecules in chemistry.

    Prime numbers can be sorted into different types. In 1202, Leonardo Fibonacci introduced in his book “Liber Abaci: Book of Calculation” prime numbers of the form (2p – 1) where p is also prime.

    Today, primes in this form are called Mersenne primes after the French monk Marin Mersenne. Many of the largest known primes follow this format.

    Several early mathematicians believed that a number of the form (2p – 1) is prime whenever p is prime. But in 1536, mathematician Hudalricus Regius noticed that 11 is prime but not (211 – 1), which equals 2047. The number 2047 can be expressed as 11 times 89, disproving the conjecture.

    While not always true, number theorists realized that the (2p – 1) shortcut often produces primes and gives a systematic way to search for large primes.

    The search for large primes

    The number (2p – 1) is much larger relative to the value of p and provides opportunities to identify large primes.

    When the number (2p – 1) becomes sufficiently large, it is much harder to check whether (2p – 1) is prime – that is, if (2p – 1) dots can be arranged only into a rectangular array with one column or one row.

    Fortunately, Édouard Lucas developed a prime number test in 1878, later proved by Derrick Henry Lehmer in 1930. Their work resulted in an efficient algorithm for evaluating potential Mersenne primes. Using this algorithm with hand computations on paper, Lucas showed in 1876 that the 39-digit number (2127 – 1) equals 170,141,183,460,469,231,731,687,303,715,884,105,727, and that value is prime.

    Also known as M127, this number remains the largest prime verified by hand computations. It held the record for largest known prime for 75 years.

    Researchers began using computers in the 1950s, and the pace of discovering new large primes increased. In 1952, Raphael M. Robinson identified five new Mersenne primes using a Standard Western Automatic Computer to carry out the Lucas-Lehmer prime number tests.

    As computers improved, the list of Mersenne primes grew, especially with the Cray supercomputer’s arrival in 1964. Although there are infinitely many primes, researchers are unsure how many fit the type (2p – 1) and are Mersenne primes.

    By the early 1980s, researchers had accumulated enough data to confidently believe that infinitely many Mersenne primes exist. They could even guess how often these prime numbers appear, on average. Mathematicians have not found proof so far, but new data continues to support these guesses.

    George Woltman, a computer scientist, founded the Great Internet Mersenne Prime Search, or GIMPS, in 1996. Through this collaborative program, anyone can download freely available software from the GIMPS website to search for Mersenne prime numbers on their personal computers. The website contains specific instructions on how to participate.

    GIMPS has now identified 18 Mersenne primes, primarily on personal computers using Intel chips. The program averages a new discovery about every one to two years.

    The largest known prime

    Luke Durant, a retired programmer, discovered the current record for the largest known prime, (2136,279,841 – 1), in October 2024.

    Referred to as M136279841, this 41,024,320-digit number was the 52nd Mersenne prime identified and was found by running GIMPS on a publicly available cloud-based computing network.

    This network used Nvidia chips and ran across 17 countries and 24 data centers. These advanced chips provide faster computing by handling thousands of calculations simultaneously. The result is shorter run times for algorithms such as prime number testing.

    New and increasingly powerful computer chips have allowed prime-number hunters to find increasingly larger primes.
    Fritzchens Fritz/Flickr

    The Electronic Frontier Foundation is a civil liberty group that offers cash prizes for identifying large primes. It awarded prizes in 2000 and 2009 for the first verified 1 million-digit and 10 million-digit prime numbers.

    Large prime number enthusiasts’ next two challenges are to identify the first 100 million-digit and 1 billion-digit primes. EFF prizes of US$150,000 and $250,000, respectively, await the first successful individual or group.

    Eight of the 10 largest known prime numbers are Mersenne primes, so GIMPS and cloud computing are poised to play a prominent role in the search for record-breaking large prime numbers.

    Large prime numbers have a vital role in many encryption methods in cybersecurity, so every internet user stands to benefit from the search for large prime numbers. These searches help keep digital communications and sensitive information safe.

    Jeremiah Bartz owns shares in Nvidia.

    ref. Prime numbers, the building blocks of mathematics, have fascinated for centuries − now technology is revolutionizing the search for them – https://theconversation.com/prime-numbers-the-building-blocks-of-mathematics-have-fascinated-for-centuries-now-technology-is-revolutionizing-the-search-for-them-249223

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Don Davis Jointly Leads Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee Ranking Member Don Davis (D-NC-01) and House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (D-MN-02) introduced the bipartisan Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act of 2025 as original cosponsors, alongside House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill (R-AR-02), House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15), Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee Chair Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), Representatives Tom Emmer (R-MN-06), Bryan Steil (R-WI-01), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), and Warren Davidson (R-OH-08).

    “Families, entrepreneurs, and small businesses across our country, including rural areas in eastern North Carolina, seek ways to engage in the modern economy. Digital assets present a chance for a more inclusive financial future, but we need clear rules and fair oversight for innovation to thrive. Congress must ensure that America shapes digital finance, creates opportunities, protects consumers, and supports overlooked communities,” said Congressman Davis, the ranking member of the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee.

    The CLARITY Act establishes a new regulatory framework for the issuance and trading of digital assets by outlining specific criteria for when a digital asset is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Under the legislation’s regulatory framework, the CFTC would be given regulatory authority over the “digital commodities” market. This market would include digital assets related to blockchain systems deemed “mature,” or largely decentralized. While the bill provides clarity regarding what types of digital assets would fall under the “digital commodity” definition, it directs the CFTC and SEC to define several key terms through agency rulemakings. Notably, the bill would give the CFTC authority over most secondary market crypto transactions where investors buy and sell previously issued crypto assets. 

    As with Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act from the previous Congress, the bill would grant CFTC new authorities, generally providing it exclusive jurisdiction over “cash” or “spot” market digital commodity transactions (with some exceptions) and requiring CFTC registration for entities (including exchanges, brokers and dealers) offering trade in digital commodities. The bill would impose certain requirements on intermediaries, including ensuring trading is not susceptible to manipulation, requiring disclosures, customer fund segregation and addressing market integrity and recordkeeping requirements.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China steps up crackdown on harmful information about university entrance exams

    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

    BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s Ministry of Education is working with the Office of the Central Cyberspace Commission and the Ministry of Public Security to curb the spread of malicious information related to the upcoming national college entrance examination, the ministry said Friday.

    The authorities have called on relevant online platforms to identify and eliminate false information about the leakage of examination materials, the sale of “answers” and combat fraud related to university admissions.

    Authorities have warned that those who create and spread online rumors, disturb public order or mislead the public will be subject to severe punishment.

    They also urged applicants and their parents to refrain from exam-related crimes and remain vigilant against fraud.

    The nationwide college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, will begin on June 7 this year, with a total of 13.35 million applicants taking it. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Personal Income and Outlays, April 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Personal income increased $210.1 billion (0.8 percent at a monthly rate) in April, according to estimates released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Disposable personal income (DPI)—personal income less personal current taxes—increased $189.4 billion (0.8 percent) and personal consumption expenditures (PCE) increased $47.8 billion (0.2 percent).

    Personal outlays—the sum of PCE, personal interest payments, and personal current transfer payments—increased $48.6 billion in April. Personal saving was $1.12 trillion in April and the personal saving rate—personal saving as a percentage of disposable personal income—was 4.9 percent.

    The increase in current-dollar personal income in April primarily reflected increases in government social benefits to persons and in compensation.

    The $47.8 billion increase in current-dollar PCE in April reflected an increase of $55.8 billion in spending on services that was partly offset by a decrease of $8.0 billion in spending for goods.

    From the preceding month, the PCE price index for April increased 0.1 percent. Excluding food and energy, the PCE price index also increased 0.1 percent.

    From the same month one year ago, the PCE price index for April increased 2.1 percent. Excluding food and energy, the PCE price index increased 2.5 percent from one year ago.

    Personal Income and Related Measures
    [Percent change from Mar. to Apr.]
    Current-dollar personal income 0.8
    Current-dollar disposable personal income 0.8
    Real disposable personal income 0.7
    Current-dollar personal consumption expenditures (PCE) 0.2
    Real PCE 0.1
    PCE price index 0.1
    PCE price index, excluding food and energy 0.1
    For definitions, statistical conventions, updates to PIO, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Next release: June 27, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    Personal Income and Outlays, May 2025


    Technical Notes

    Changes in Personal Income and Outlays for April

    The increase in personal income in April reflected increases in government social benefits to persons and in compensation.

    • The increase in government social benefits to persons was led by an increase in Social Security payments, reflecting payments associated with the Social Security Fairness Act.
    • The increase in compensation was led by private wages and salaries, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Current Employment Statistics (CES). Wages and salaries in services-producing industries increased $53.1 billion. Wages and salaries in goods‑producing industries decreased $3.1 billion.

    Revisions to Personal Income

    Estimates have been updated for October through March. Revisions for October through December for compensation, personal taxes, and contributions for government social insurance reflect the incorporation of fourth-quarter wage and salary data from the BLS Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages program. The estimates for January through March reflect updated BLS CES data. The revision to Social Security benefits for March reflects information on retroactive payments associated with the Social Security Fairness Act.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: XenDex Extends $XDX Presale as XRP Ecosystem Momentum Grows Amid Exchange Listing Talks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Investors are rushing to secure their $XDX allocations as XenDex enters the final phase of its presale. The project has confirmed ongoing discussions with several top-tier exchanges. Market momentum is building across the XRP ecosystem following recent industry developments, including reports of Ripple’s acquisition of Circle, the issuer of USDC, and the launch of the first XRPI Futures ETF by Volatility Shares — both of which have contributed to renewed bullish sentiment around XRP and related projects.

    XenDex Presale

    As XRP gains more institutional support, XenDex is quickly becoming the most anticipated DeFi launch on the XRP Ledger. Built to empower users of all levels, XenDex is cementing its place as XRPL’s go-to decentralized exchange.

    What is XenDex On XRP Blockchain?

    XenDex is the first fully integrated, all-in-one decentralized exchange (DEX) developed natively on the XRP Ledger. It brings fast, secure, and low-cost DeFi features together in one sleek interface, ideal for both crypto newcomers and professional traders.

    Features and Problems XenDex Aims to Solve on XRPL

    Despite XRP’s strengths in scalability and speed, the XRPL has lacked vital DeFi infrastructure. XenDex changes that by delivering:

    • AI Copy Trading – Mirror trades from elite performers to reduce risk and enhance returns
    • Lending & Borrowing – Lend or borrow assets on XenDex without intermediaries
    • Cross-Chain Trading – Swap XRP seamlessly on XenDex with Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana tokens
    • DAO Governance – Vote on upgrades, listings, and new features using $XDX

    Why Should I Buy $XDX?

    Beyond the possibility of price appreciation post-listing, $XDX holders gain:

    • Governance rights over future XenDex development decisions
    • Access to staking and liquidity rewards
    • Platform fee discounts for trading, borrowing, and lending
    • Airdrops and exclusive access to new features

    Where Can I Trade $XDX?

    Following the presale, XenDex is in active discussions with several leading exchanges — including Binance, Gate.io, MEXC, BitMart, MagneticX, and FirstLedger — regarding the potential listing of $XDX.

    Is XenDex a Legit Project on XRP?

    Yes. Built by seasoned blockchain developers with experience on Cardano and SUI, XenDex is undergoing third-party smart contract audits and has integrated XRPL tools like Xaman, XRP Toolkit, Namecheap, Gitbook, and GitHub.

    How Do I Buy $XDX?

    XenDex Presale Details

    • Soft Cap: Reached
    • Hard Cap: Almost Filled
    • Time Left: Only 2 Days Remaining

    Visit Official XenDex Links Below

    Website: https://xendex.net
    Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
    Telegram: https://t.me/xendexcommunity
    Twitter/X: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
    Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io

    Contact:
    Frank Richards
    Frank@xendex.net

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. 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.

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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12c82db4-1ccc-48cc-a4f0-1cd799f9d0dd

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Files Six New Patent Applications Related to its Proprietary ZEUS™ Microreactor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NANO continues work to expand its intellectual property portfolio

    New York, N.Y., May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company, today announced that it has filed six new utility patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) related to its ZEUS™ microreactor.

    ZEUS™ is being designed as a solid‑core battery reactor with a fully sealed core that uses a highly conductive moderator matrix to dissipate fission heat. As designed, there is no fluid inside the core, which lowers the risk typically associated in‑core coolant accident scenarios.

    Figure 1 – Rendering of NANO Nuclear Energy’s ZEUS™ Advanced Portable Nuclear Microreactor

    The ZEUS™ design calls for all reactor and support systems to fit within a standard shipping container, creating the potential for exceptional transportability to sites lacking conventional energy infrastructure. The unit is also designed to deliver thermal energy directly for heat applications or convert it to electricity, making it adaptable for a wide range of needs, including district heating, power generation and non‑electric uses such as hydrogen production.

    “These patent applications for ZEUS reaffirm our commitment to strengthening NANO Nuclear’s intellectual property portfolio,” said Prof. Massimiliano Fratoni, Senior Director and Head of Reactor Design of NANO Nuclear. “The applications are directed towards safeguarding ZEUS’s key processes and components, which would not only benefit our own program but also contribute to progress across the entire advanced nuclear reactor industry.”

    “We’re pleased to file these new patent applications, which reflect the hard and excellent work of our engineering and technical teams to advance our goal of bringing next‑generation microreactors, like ZEUS™, from development to commercialization,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
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    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements related to the anticipated benefits of the patent applications described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop, gain registered intellectual property protection for, and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Vivakor Announces Special Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dallas, TX, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Vivakor, Inc. (Nasdaq: VIVK) (“Vivakor” or the “Company”), an integrated provider of energy transportation, storage, reuse, and remediation service, today announced that its Board of Directors has approved a plan to issue a special dividend to Vivakor shareholders.

    Vivakor currently holds 206,595 (approximately 13.5% of the outstanding common) shares of Adapti, Inc., a company that manages the marketing of products, data and companies through its AdaptAI software platform that matches products with the influencers to attempt to generate the best results.

    Based on Vivakor’s current shares outstanding of approximately 47,297,347 and excluding 20,963,229 shares held by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer who are waiving their right to the dividend, each Vivakor shareholder will be entitled to receive approximately 0.0079 shares of Adapti, Inc. common stock per Vivakor share. Based on the current share price of Adapti’s common stock, the special dividend is currently valued at approximately $0.815 million.

    Vivakor’s Board of Directors will be establishing a date of record for the dividend in the next couple of weeks.

    Adapti, Inc., formerly known as Scepter Holdings, Inc., filed its Form 10 Registration Statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in September 2024 and has since become a mandatory SEC reporting company. An entity controlled by Vivakor’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. James Ballengee, has signed a definitive agreement for Adapti to acquire certain operations from the entity. More information regarding this transaction can be found in Adapti, Inc.’s filings with the SEC.

    About Vivakor, Inc.

    Vivakor, Inc. is an integrated provider of sustainable energy transportation, storage, reuse, and remediation services, operating one of the largest fleets of oilfield trucking services in the continental United States. Its corporate mission is to develop, acquire, accumulate, and operate assets, properties, and technologies in the energy sector. Vivakor’s integrated facilities assets provide crude oil and produced water gathering, storage, transportation, reuse, and remediation services under long-term contracts.

    Once operational, Vivakor’s oilfield waste remediation facilities will facilitate the recovery, reuse, and disposal of petroleum byproducts and oilfield waste products.

    For more information, please visit our website: http://vivakor.com

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond our control. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified but not limited by the use of the words “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “may,” “will,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” or “continue” and variations or similar expressions. Our actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, , the expected transaction and ownership structure, the valuation of the transaction, the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully and timely consummate planned acquisitions, the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect Vivakor or the expected benefits of the such transaction, our ability to maintain the listing of our securities on The Nasdaq Capital Market, the parties failure to realize the anticipated benefits of pending transactions, disruption and volatility in the global currency, capital, and credit markets, changes in federal, local and foreign governmental regulation, changes in tax laws and liabilities, tariffs, legal, regulatory, political and economic risks, our ability to successfully develop products, rapid change in our markets, changes in demand for our future products, and general economic conditions.

    These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties discussed in Vivakor’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which factors may be incorporated herein by reference. Actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially, and potentially adversely, from any projections and forward-looking statements and the assumptions on which those forward-looking statements are based. There can be no assurance that the data contained herein is reflective of future performance to any degree. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a predictor of future performance as projected financial information and other information are based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to various significant risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. All information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof in the case of information about Vivakor and the Endeavor Entities or the date of such information in the case of information from persons other than Vivakor and the Endeavor Entities, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication. Forecasts and estimates regarding the Endeavor Entities industries and markets are based on sources we believe to be reliable; however, there can be no assurance these forecasts and estimates will prove accurate in whole or in part.

    Investors Contact:
    P:949-281-2606
    info@vivakor.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: Nimanode’s $NMA Presale Demand Surges, Positions For Explosive Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEEDS, United Kingdom, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nimanode is the first platform of its kind to deliver a zero-code solution for launching on-chain AI agents that can perform complex blockchain tasks such as smart contract development, DeFi optimization, compliance monitoring, and Web3 user support. The platform’s no-code interface makes it accessible to both developers and non-technical users, providing drag-and-drop workflows to configure, test, and launch autonomous agents on-chain in minutes.

    Building on XRPL was the priority for them, “We’re bringing AI automation to the heart of Web3 through XRPL, and doing it with usability in mind,” said the Nimanode founding team. “Our mission is to simplify intelligent infrastructure and put real on-chain power in the hands of every user.” They chose a blockchain with speed , security and scalibilty in mind.

    Presale Page

    Designed for the XRP Ecosystem

    Built natively on XRPL, Nimanode leverages the blockchain’s speed, low fees, and scalability to enable high-frequency, low-latency AI agent execution. The platform’s agents are capable of:

    • Executing smart contracts via XRPL Hooks
    • Scanning wallets and tokens for real-time risk
    • Monitoring compliance in tokenized real-world assets (RWAs)
    • Managing liquidity and maximizing APY across XRPL protocols
    • Operating 24/7 as decentralized customer support interfaces

    $NMA Presale

    Unlocking the Agent Economy

    At the core of Nimanode is the Agent Marketplace, where users can license, share, and monetize AI agents with other users and businesses. Combined with its SDK for developers and drag-and-drop builder for creators, Nimanode is positioning itself as a hub for Web3 automation and on-chain labor.

    $NMA, the platform’s utility token, is used for:

    • Deploying and upgrading agents
    • Licensing agents via the marketplace
    • Staking to earn protocol rewards
    • Participating in decentralized governance

    $NMA Token Sale Now Live

    As part of its official launch, Nimanode has begun the presale of its native token, $NMA. A total of 90 million tokens (45% of the 200 million supply) are available during the presale.

    Participants can purchase $NMA tokens using XRP by sending funds directly from XRPL-compatible wallets (such as XAMAN) to the official Nimanode presale address listed on their Presale Page. All transactions are recorded on-chain for full transparency.

    Presale contributors will receive $NMA at an early-access rate, prior to the token’s public listing on decentralized exchanges at a projected 25% markup post-sale.

    Don’t Miss Out on Nimanode

    Nimanode is a decentralized AI agent platform built on the XRP Ledger, offering no-code and developer tools to deploy on-chain AI agents that automate blockchain activity, optimize protocol interaction, and monetize intelligent services. By bridging AI with decentralized infrastructure, Nimanode is building the next evolution of digital work and Web3 automation.

    Connect with Nimanode

    Website: https://nimanode.com

    Twitter/X: https://x.com/nimanodeai

    Telegram: https://t.me/nimanodeAI

    Documentation: https://docs.nimanode.com

    Contact:
    Nick Lambert
    contact@nimanode.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Nimanode. 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.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/80fe44e4-8452-4862-a8e1-0fcc3adb5477

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Receives U.S. Patent for Innovative Gesture Control, Enabling Precision Interaction with Digital Devices

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Yokneam Illit, Israel, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (the “Company” or “Wearable Devices”) (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW), a technology growth company specializing in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-powered touchless sensing wearables, recently announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has granted a continuation of  its patent titled “Gesture and Voice-Controlled Interface Device”, strengthening its leadership in revolutionizing intuitive human-device interactions for next-generation digital ecosystems.

    Traditional gesture sensing systems continuously track hand and finger movements but lack clear “start” and “end” points, making it difficult for devices to understand when a user truly intends to zoom, adjust volume, or manipulate an object. As a result, unintuitive solutions have been used – such as requiring the use of both hands, adding special buttons, or abandoning continuous control altogether. The same goes for voice assistants, which require a “wake word”, prompting them to wait for further instructions.

    Wearable Devices’ newly allowed patent defines a method to extract precise start and end points from continuous gestures. This breakthrough enables devices to support natural and intuitive control gestures like pinch-to-zoom not just for zooming images, but also for adjusting volume, resizing objects, or moving elements – seamlessly and touch-free.

    The technology is ideally suited for augmented reality (“AR”) headsets, gesture-controlled smart devices, and wearable controllers based on cameras, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), or electromyography (EMG) sensors – making mid-air fine control finally accessible and natural.

    About Wearable Devices

    Wearable Devices Ltd. (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW) is a growth company pioneering human-computer interaction through its AI-powered neural input touchless technology. Leveraging proprietary sensors, software, and advanced AI algorithms, the Company’s consumer products – the Mudra Band and Mudra Link – are defining the neural input category both for wrist-worn devices and for brain-computer interfaces. These products enable touch-free, intuitive control of digital devices using gestures across multiple operating systems.

    Operating through a dual-channel model of direct-to-consumer sales and enterprise licensing and collaborations, Wearable Devices empowers consumers with stylish, functional wearables for enhanced experiences in gaming, productivity, and extended reality (“XR”). In the business sector, the Company provides enterprise partners with advanced input solutions for immersive and interactive environments, from AR/virtual reality (“VR”)/XR to smart environments.

    By setting the standard for neural input in the XR ecosystem, Wearable Devices is shaping the future of seamless, natural user experiences across some of the world’s fastest-growing tech markets. Wearable Devices’ ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW,” respectively.

    Forward-Looking Statements Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss the benefits and advantages of our products and technology, our aim to make neural input as intuitive and accessible as possible, and the potential of our touchless control technology in enabling devices to support natural and intuitive control gestures. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed on March 20, 2025 and our other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations Contact
    Michal Efraty
    IR@wearabledevices.co.il

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: An important step towards technological leadership: key scientific and technological projects approved

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    In March of this year, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, following the presentation of the University Development Program at the Council of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation entered the leading group of universities participating in the Priority 2030 program.

    The Priority 2030 program to support higher education institutions was relaunched this year with an emphasis on achieving technological leadership in Russia by combining the efforts of the state, business, and universities in implementing joint projects. The key performance indicator for participants is the integrated technological leadership index (ITL). ITL is calculated based on the volume of extra-budgetary R&D and scientific and technical services, commercialization of the results of intellectual activity and work.

    In order to achieve technological leadership, in accordance with the approved Strategy and Program for the University Development until 2030 with a perspective until 2036, SPbPU will concentrate its efforts on three key scientific and technological areas (KSTD), as well as on the transformation of engineering education.

    During the two months of the program’s implementation, a great deal of organizational work was done to launch key scientific and technological projects, the Office of Technological Leadership was organized, headed by Oleg Rozhdestvensky, and the SPbPU Technological Leadership Council was created and began its work under the chairmanship of the Rector of SPbPU, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Ivanovich Rudskoy.

    For each of the key scientific and technological areas, chief designers (director heads) have been approved:

    KNTN-1 “System Digital Engineering” – development of technologies and products superior to foreign analogues, based on digital twin technology andCML-Bench® Digital Platform. Chief Designer, Head of the Department — Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation, Head of the SPbPU PISh “Digital Engineering” Aleksey Borovkov; KNTN-2 “New Materials, Technologies, Production” — creation of science-intensive industries for the repair and manufacture of products for various purposes. Chief Designer, Head of the Department — Director of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport Anatoly Popovich; KNTN-3 “Artificial Intelligence for Solving Cross-Industry Problems” — development of digital platform solutions for analyzing multimodal data. Chief Designer, Head of the Department — Vice-Rector for Research Yuri Fomin; Transformation of Engineering Education — maximizing SPbPU’s contribution to the formation of world-class Russian engineering education and the spatial development of the country. Head of the Department — Vice-Rector for Educational Activities Lyudmila Pankova.

    In mid-May, the Technology Leadership Council approved projects within key scientific and technological areas.

    Projects of KNTN-1 “System digital engineering”:

    The creation of industry technologies of systemic digital engineering based on the CML-Bench® digital platform, the head-A. A. Sebelev, write “Digital Engineering”;
    Systemic digital engineering and the development of unmanned aviation systems, components and materials, the head – M. Yu. Korchkov, write “digital engineering”;
    Systemic digital engineering of products and the development of digital doubles in the field of energy engineering, the leader – N. N. Minin, write “Digital Engineering”;
    Improving the quality and reliability of the construction of foundations on perennial frozen soils based on computer modeling of the stability of a drilling pile, the head – A. A. Alkhimenko, write “digital engineering”;
    Development of a comprehensive technology for obtaining composite structures by overprinting for the manufacture of aviation technology products, the head – I. A. Kobykhno, write digital engineering;
    Development of advanced methods for the design of equipment of atomic and thermonuclear reactors, leaders-V. S. Modestov, V. A. Rozhansky, Physics and Mechanical Institute;
    High -speed modem for small spacecraft, head – S.V. Zavyalov, Institute of Electronics and Telecommunications;
    The use of systemic digital engineering tools in the development of advanced medical devices, the head – M. A. Zhmailo, writes “digital engineering”;
    Development of new generation burners for pyrolysis furnaces, leader – Yu. V. Aristovich, writing “digital engineering”;
    Development of mathematical models of compressor equipment and software based on them for digital design, optimization, development of products on virtual and physical stands, forecasting the operating modes and possible malfunctions during operation, the head – A. A. Drozdov, and the Institute of Energy.

    Projects of KNTN-2 “New materials, technologies, production”:

    Scientific and technological foundations for the creation of science-intensive production, repair and manufacture of parts for power engineering for civil and special purposes. Stage 2025, leader — P. A. Novikov, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport; Development of scientific and technological foundations of additive production and repair of parts from compact materials, leader — O. V. Panchenko, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport; Development of technology for forming SHAR-LINZA glass, leader — A. V. Semencha, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport; Development of scientific foundations for the creation of composite materials based on foam aluminum, leader — S. V. Ganin, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport; Study of the possibility of increasing the productivity of an in-pipe robotic diagnostic complex when monitoring long sections of a gas pipeline, leader — O. A. Shmakov, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport.

    Projects of KNTN-3 “Artificial intelligence for solving cross-industry problems”:

    Automation of Seismic Data Processing Using Artificial Neural Networks, Head — I. A. Zhdanov, Scientific Department; Digital Platform for Transport Systems Data Analysis Using Hybrid Artificial Intelligence, Head — M. V. Bolsunovskaya, Digital Engineering PISh; Multi-agent Decision Support Systems in Industry and Construction, Head — A. M. Gintsyak, Digital Engineering PISh; Flexible Life Cycle Management System for Power Plant Equipment Using Predictive Analytics Tools, Head — I. D. Anikina, Institute of Power Engineering; Artificial Intelligence Technologies for Retrosynthetic Analysis of Big Data on Structure-Biological Activity Relationships, Head — A. S. Timin, Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology.

    All approved projects correspond to the priority areas of scientific and technological development of the country, are based on existing personnel and scientific and technological reserves, are aimed at developing the most important science-intensive technologies, and have undergone a rigorous external expert assessment.

    In addition, all selected projects are built in the logic of the qualified partnership model, where the university acts as a qualified performer and its development within the model, as well as interaction with a qualified customer (industrial partner) is carried out within the framework of the RUN-CNANGE-DISRUPT methodology. RUN is an ongoing activity, CNANGE – DISRUPT mean “targeted changes” and “breakthrough”, which are achieved with the help of a scientific and technological reserve formed on a systemic basis, the introduction of digital and technological platforms, and a focus on frontier engineering tasks.

    Over the past few years, we have managed to build sustainable cooperation with dozens of industrial partners, with whom we develop advanced technologies and launch joint educational programs. Based on this experience and the results of our teams, we have formed three key scientific and technological areas that allow us to follow the Polytechnic mission – “creation of knowledge and implementation of developments to ensure technological leadership of Russia.” Concentration of efforts and resources on three scientific and technological areas and building all processes in this logic is the basis of our transformation in the scientific and technological sphere, – commented the head of the SPbPU Office of Technological Leadership Oleg Rozhdestvensky.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Algernon Yau visits Tokyo

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau today attended the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Ministerial Meeting, aimed at strengthening regional collaboration on the development of information and communications technology, in Tokyo, Japan.

     

    Whilst in Tokyo, the commerce chief also took the opportunity to meet Japanese political and business leaders.

     

    Speaking at a discussion session at the ministerial meeting, Mr Yau spoke about Hong Kong’s efforts in building sustainable and accessible information and communications technology infrastructure, and its commitment to a more inclusive and resilient digital future.

     

    Mr Yau said in the wake of the full liberalisation of its telecommunications market in 2003, Hong Kong’s telecommunications sector has become one of the most advanced, open, and dynamic markets globally.

     

    He highlighted that Hong Kong leads the world on mobile voice affordability, ranks second globally on mobile broadband affordability, and is seventh on fixed broadband affordability. The city’s 5G availability also ranks first in the Asia-Pacific region.

     

    Mr Yau emphasised that Hong Kong’s robust infrastructure provides a strong foundation for sustainable telecommunications development, including future 6G deployment and other cutting-edge services.

     

    The 6G Global Summit held in Hong Kong earlier this month, which was the summit’s first edition in the Asia-Pacific region, also focused support for 6G development.

     

    With regard to innovation and technology (I&T), Mr Yau explained that the Hong Kong I&T Development Blueprint, promulgated in 2022, set out clear development directions and strategies including, including accelerated development of new digital infrastructure.

     

    He added that artificial intelligence (AI) opens up vast new opportunities for global economic development and scientific research, and that Hong Kong is developing its AI ecosystem on various fronts. This include the launch of the AI Supercomputing Centre at Cyberport to meet demand for high-performance computing power.

     

    Mr Yau said Hong Kong will continue to work hand in hand with APT members and other stakeholders to advance sustainable infrastructure and promote eco-friendly information and communications technology for a connected future.

     

    Meanwhile, Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarian League Chairman and House of Councillors Member Jimi Hanako to update her on Hong Kong’s latest economic and trade developments.

     

    Upon arriving in Tokyo yesterday, Mr Yau paid a courtesy call on Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Miyaji Takuma.

     

    Noting the close bilateral relations between the two places, Mr Yau updated Mr Miyaji on Hong Kong’s robust economic developments on various fronts under the “one country, two systems” principle, and solicited Japan’s support for Hong Kong’s early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

     

    Mr Yau also met Japan Association of Corporate Executives representatives to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and investment opportunities.

     

    The commerce chief will return to Hong Kong tomorrow after the APT Ministerial Meeting concludes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chair appointed to independent Fatal Accident Inquiry review

    Source: Scottish Government

    Action to improve investigations into deaths in prison custody.

    Retired Sheriff Principal Ian Abercrombie has been appointed to chair an independent review of the system of Fatal Accident Inquiries (FAI) into deaths in prison custody.

    The review will aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of investigations into deaths in prison and ensure those affected are treated in a trauma-informed way.

    The review which was commissioned by Justice Secretary Angela Constance, in consultation with the Lord Advocate, will also identify barriers that families face in engaging with the FAI process and address the time it takes for them to be completed.

    An advisory group, recommended by the Chair and appointed by the Justice Secretary, will support Sheriff Principal Abercrombie. Its membership is expected to be agreed and announced within weeks.

    The Justice Secretary said:

    “A review of the FAI system was a key action from the Government’s consideration of the FAI inquiry determinations into the tragic deaths of Katie Allan and William Lindsay.

    “Families have been let down and their experience of the system has added to their grief. Their voices will be heard and listened to during this independent review.

    “The remit of the review will consider issues surrounding FAIs held into deaths in prison custody.

    “Maintaining the pace of reform is essential, which is why I have asked to receive the report by the end of this year.”

    Sheriff Principal Abercrombie said:

    “I am pleased to be leading this review. I understand that concerns have been raised about how the FAI system currently operates in relation to deaths in prison custody.

    “As an independent chair, ably assisted by my Advisory Group, I am looking forward to hearing from all those with experience or knowledge of the system.”

    Background

    Sheriff Principal Abercrombie graduated with an LLB Hons from the University of Edinburgh in 1978 and joined the Faculty of Advocates in 1981. He has served as a Curator of the Advocates Library and was a member of the disciplinary committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, and of a Scottish Law Commission advisory group.

    He is a former member of the Scottish Civil Justice Council. He became a QC in 1993 and was appointed a sheriff in 2009. He became Sheriff Principal of South Strathclyde, Dumfries and Galloway in 2014. He retired from this role in 2020.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: SHARC Energy Announces Q1 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SHARC International Systems Inc. (CSE: SHRC) (FSE: IWIA) (OTCQB: INTWF) (“SHARC Energy” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce it has filed financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. All figures are in Canadian Dollars and in accordance with IFRS unless otherwise stated.

    First Quarter Financial Highlights:

    • Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (“Q1 2025”) is $1.01 million (M), representing 47% of the full year revenue in 2024 and a 30% increase over the $0.78M of revenue reported in the three months ended March 31, 2024 (“Q1 2024”).
    • As of May 30, 2025, the Company has a Sales Pipeline1 of 16.5M and Sales Order Backlog2of $3.5M. This represents a $0.5M increase or 18% growth in Sales Order Backlog since April 29, 2025 disclosure. Sales Pipeline saw a marginal decrease of 1% since April 29, 2025 disclosure reflecting the deliberate efforts by the Company to refill the pipeline once projects convert to the order book. The combined pipeline showed an aggregate growth of 1% or $0.3M from the previous disclosure on April 29, 2025. The $3.5M Sales Order Backlog, which is estimated to be converted to revenue within an average of 12 months from disclosure, represents a 64% improvement compared to the year ended December 31, 2024 revenue of $2.17M. The Company continues to observe the maturity of its Sales Pipeline providing the Company’s revenue more consistency and with reduced volatility, providing a solid platform to scale and grow.
    • During Q1 2025, the Company also reported a loss of $0.92M and an Adjusted EBITDA3 loss of $0.61M. This compares to a loss of $0.76M and an Adjusted EBITDA loss of $0.85M in the comparative quarter representing a 20% and 22% increase, respectively.
    • Gross margins for Q1 2025 were 31% compared to 38% in Q1 2024. Management remains optimistic that this margin range aligns with our expectations for the coming quarters but the margin percentage varies dependent on sales mix and stage of completion of each project.

    Michael Albertson, Chief Executive Officer and President of SHARC Energy, said, “We are off to a strong start to the 2025 fiscal year with the Company reporting revenue of just over $1 million which represents a 30% increase over Q1 2024 and 47% of the full year revenue earned in the 2024 fiscal year. More importantly, despite the delivery of revenue, Sales Order Backlog increased by 18% and represents a 64% improvement over 2024 revenue sitting at $3.5 million as of the reporting date. SHARC Energy’s revenue growth continues to gain momentum.”

    Mr. Albertson continues, “We recently disclosed key District Energy System (“DES”) projects, Lebreton Flats in Ottawa and Senakw in Vancouver, which are leveraging SHARC Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) systems as the core component to power their thermal networks harnessing wastewater as the key renewable resource. WET supported solutions continue to grow in awareness and acceptance with the Company learning of projects in planning across North America and globally. In the Greater Vancouver, British Columbia region alone, there are several municipal or utility supported DES/Thermal Energy Networks (“TENs”) ranging in size and scale in different stages of development that will increase SHARC Energy’s local footprint over the next few years. In the United States, legislation allowing or mandating utilities to develop DES/TENs demonstration projects or pilots have been passed in eight states, including the State of New York and recently added California, where the Company has installations in progress, projects in design and a growing list of leads looking to implement Wastewater Energy Transfer with DES/TENs.”

    “We are continuing to progress into new sectors for the SHARC and PIRANHA with promising opportunities developing within wastewater treatment facilities, universities, water utilities, correctional facilities and the design & build/energy sectors. These sectors are increasingly receptive to SHARC Energy’s offerings which is promising as these sectors can provide fewer regulatory hurdles, long-term customer relationships, shorter sales cycles, and the potential for larger-scale projects. The Company anticipates the closing of new business in these adjacent sectors as early as this year.”

    “Furthermore, SHARC Energy is gearing up to launch new products in its portfolio which will be introduced to the market soon. With the support of original equipment manufacturer relationships SHARC Energy has, we feel there is significant opportunity to better serve more customers and increase our revenue and margin dollars earned going forward. SHARC Energy’s tailwinds are strong and set to propel the Company to profitability in the coming years. We are very excited about our position in the thermal energy market.” stated Mr. Albertson.

    Q1 2025 Highlights and Subsequent Events

    • Fred Andriano appointed as Chairman of the Board of Directors. On May 5, 2025, the Company announced significant changes to its Board of Directors, appointing Fred Andriano as Chairman of the Board and Executive Officer, replacing Lynn Mueller, who will now serve as Vice Chairman and Executive Officer. Furthermore, the Company accepted the retirement and resignation of Eleanor Chiu as Director.
    • False Creek Neighbourhood Energy Utility (“NEU”) Expansion. The Company continued work on the supply and maintenance agreement with the City of Vancouver for the provision and maintenance of five SHARC systems for the False Creek NEU Expansion. During the period, the Company completed all remaining milestones of the agreement.
    • SHARC System Featured in Ottawa’s Lebreton Flats District Energy Project. The Company announced that two SHARC 880 Wastewater Energy Transfer (“WET”) systems will be used to power a district energy system in Canada’s capital city. SHARC Energy anticipates commencing submittals for the SHARC WET Systems in 2025 with equipment build and delivery expected during 2026.

    For complete financial information for the three months ended March 31, 2025, please see the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements and Management Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

    About SHARC Energy

    SHARC International Systems Inc. is a world leader in energy recovery from the wastewater we send down the drain every day. SHARC Energy’s systems recycle thermal energy from wastewater, generating one of the most energy-efficient and economical systems for heating, cooling & hot water production for commercial, residential, and industrial buildings along with thermal energy networks, commonly referred to as “District Energy”.

    SHARC Energy is publicly traded in Canada (CSE: SHRC), the United States (OTCQB: INTWF) and Germany (Frankfurt: IWIA) and you can find out more on our SEDAR profile.

    Learn more about SHARC Energy: Website | Investor Page | LinkedIn | YouTube | PIRANHA | SHARC

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

    Fred Andriano
    Chairman

    The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified using words such as “anticipate”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “intend”, “should”, and similar expressions. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. SHARC Energy’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information because of regulatory decisions, competitive factors in the industries in which the Company operates, prevailing economic conditions, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. SHARC Energy believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the Company’s expectations as of the date hereof and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities legislation. 


    1 Sales Pipeline is a non-IFRS measure. Please see discussion of Alternative Performance Measures and Non-IFRS Measures in the Q1 2025 MD&A.
    2 Sales Order Backlog is a non-IFRS measure. Please see discussion of Alternative Performance Measures and Non-IFRS Measures in the Q1 2025 MD&A.
    3 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS measure. Please see discussion of Alternative Performance Measures and Non-IFRS Measures in the Q1 2025 MD&A.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Restive Ventures Opens Applications for 9th Fintech Founder Cohort

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Restive Ventures, the premier seed-stage venture firm focused on fintech innovation, is now accepting applications for its 9th cohort. This application-based investment cycle is open to early-stage founders building the future of financial services, with a growing focus on AI-native companies accelerating transformation across the financial ecosystem.

    Since its launch in 2018, Restive-backed startups have raised over $800 million in follow-on capital and created over $5 billion in enterprise value, reshaping how millions of people and businesses interact with money, data, and infrastructure.

    Applications are open from May 30 to July 15. Founders can apply here.

    “We’re seeing a massive resurgence in fintech—especially in companies where AI is being used to unlock new workflows, reimagine user experiences, and build radically more efficient companies,” said Ryan Falvey, Managing Partner at Restive. “We want to meet technical founders building in this moment—those creating high-velocity businesses in payments, infrastructure, compliance, risk, and more.”

    Restive’s previous cohorts drew over 1,500 applications, with a final group of 10 companies selected. Over 70% of the cohort was AI-native, building across financial infrastructure, compliance, lending, and B2B payments. Founders represented a global mix, including teams from the U.S., Mexico, the U.K., and India, and brought deep technical backgrounds from companies like Stripe, Plaid, and Coinbase.

    Who Should Apply

    The cohort is designed for pre-seed and seed-stage companies, whether the product is live or still in development. Restive is especially interested in startups where:

    • AI is being used to rethink legacy financial processes and empower small, lean teams to build products exceptionally fast
    • Teams are engineering-led with a deep understanding of the technical problem they’re solving
    • The business touches a regulated space, enterprise workflow, or consumer financial experience
    • Founders are seeking early capital plus high-touch connectivity to fintech operators, regulators, and follow-on VCs

    What Selected Startups Receive:

    • At least a $500,000 initial investment at market terms
    • One-on-one support from fintech operators and an industry-leading network of founders
    • Curated introductions to partners, regulators, and future investors
    • Ongoing capital support throughout the company’s early growth

    Restive’s selection process is open to any fintech startup, pre-seed or seed, across a wide range of verticals. “In the last quarter alone, we’ve seen fintech M&A activity and IPO interest pick up and a strong return of venture appetite in early-stage deals,” said Cameron Peake, Partner at Restive. “There’s a clear market pull—and we want to help the most promising founders move faster.”

    Fintech founders interested in joining the next cohort can learn more and apply here.

    About Restive Ventures
    Restive is on a mission to help entrepreneurs build the world’s best fintech companies. Restive partners with early founders who have an unrelenting vision to improve fintech and build world-changing companies. The team provides a foundation of early-stage capital, deep operational expertise, and systematic connections to help founders launch and grow more quickly. Learn more at https://www.restive.com or follow X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

    Contact:

    Press@restive.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NIRI Philadelphia Elects 2025 – 2026 Board Members

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Philadelphia Chapter of NIRI: The Association for Investor Relations is pleased to announce that its members have elected nine investor relations leaders to serve on the Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 term.

    “I’m proud of the accomplishments and strong connections we’ve built together as a chapter,” said Nahla A. Azmy, NIRI Philadelphia Board President. “It’s an honor to continue serving in this role alongside such an esteemed group of returning board members. I look forward to building on our momentum and creating even more opportunities for learning, leadership, and community in the year ahead.”

    The 2025 -2026 NIRI Philadelphia Board of Directors include:

    President
    Nahla Azmy, Investor Relations & Financial Communications Leader

    Executive Vice President
    Andrew Bjorkman, Director – Regional Head, Mid-Atlantic & Northwest at NYSE

    Vice President, Treasurer
    Joe Shiffler, Director, Investor Relations at Power Integrations

    Vice President, Programs
    Michael Wherley, Vice President, Investor Relations at Nouryon

    Vice President, Marketing & Communications
    Gene Cleary, Vice President, Investor Relations, M&A and External Reporting at Aramark

    Vice President, Technology
    Alex Whitelam, Vice President, Investor Relations at Dorman Products

    Vice President, Membership
    Curt Brooks, Director, Investor Relations at FMC Corp.

    Co-Vice President, Sponsorships
    Lisa Caperelli, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications Professional at CAP Strategies, LLC
    Rebecca Gardy, Senior Vice President, Chief Investor Relations Officer at The Campbell’s Company

    About the NIRI Philadelphia Chapter
    NIRI Philadelphia, formed in 1971, is a professional association of investor relations officers, communicators, consultants and providers serving organizations in the Greater Philadelphia area. NIRI Philadelphia includes members from a variety of industries and market cap sizes who are responsible for communications between their organizations, the investing public, and the financial community. NIRI Philadelphia’s goal is to provide its members the resources needed to be strategic leaders in their organizations.

    About NIRI: The Association for Investor Relations 
    Founded in 1969, NIRI is the professional association of corporate officers and investor relations consultants responsible for communication among corporate management, shareholders, securities analysts, and other financial community constituents. NIRI is the largest professional investor relations association in the world with members representing over 1,500 publicly held companies and $12 trillion in stock market capitalization.

    Contact: President@niriphiladelphia.org

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Announced at Kaltura Connect on the Road 2025: Salesforce, Bloomberg, Wells Fargo, EY, IBM, and Adobe are Among the Winners of this year’s Kaltura Digital Engagement Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kaltura (Nasdaq: KLTR), the AI Video Experience Cloud, today announced the recipients of the 2025 Kaltura Digital Engagement Awards. The awards were presented at the annual Kaltura Connect on the Road event series, which brought together hundreds of leaders from Marketing, Communications, and Enterprise Media to share how they’re driving AI-powered transformation within their organizations. The honorees of the awards included leading brands such as Oracle, SAP, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Accenture, BP, Shell, Vanguard, Airbnb, KPMG and Pinterest.  

    “The way that people engage with content, with brands, and with each other, is being redefined before our eyes, and we are proud to work with the organizations that are leading this transformation,” said Ron Yekutiel, Co-founder, Chairman, President, and CEO of Kaltura. “From immersive onboarding, through autonomous customer journeys, to AI-powered accessibility and more, these awards recognize the companies that, beyond showing the world what’s next, are showing what’s possible as Agentic AI applications come to the forefront of business operations.”  

    The Digital Engagement Awards celebrate companies that have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with Kaltura’s Agentic AI video platform, showcasing exceptional creativity and impact across enterprise digital experiences. Honorees were selected based on their innovative use of Kaltura’s technologies, scalable impact, purposeful innovation, visionary leadership, and commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. 

    Honorees of the AI Transformation Trailblazer Award:  

    • Bloomberg, for being the first to shape the unknown, setting the pace for enterprise innovation and proving that leadership often means leaping first. 
    • SAP, for leading with vision and experimenting with purpose, and setting the pace for intelligent innovation at enterprise scale. 

    Honorees of the Collaboration Champion Award:  

    • Vanguard, for turning a complex rollout into a unified movement, aligning 10 business lines under one vision, and proving that real collaboration scales. 
    • Oracle, for bringing people together, breaking down silos, and turning video into a unifying force across the business journey at every stage. 
    • KPMG, for breaking down silos and building global alignment—leveraging strategy, technology, and partner ecosystems to turn collaboration into a competitive edge. 

    Honorees of the Brand Engagement Innovator Award: 

    • Pinterest, for reminding us that inclusion is innovation, and prioritizing accessibility across every element to guarantee each audience feels welcome, seen, and truly supported. 
    • BP, for proving that great brands don’t just follow guidelines—they live them. With bold, consistent storytelling, BP brings its brand to life in every frame. 

    Honorees of the Accessibility & AI Mover & Shaker Award: 

    • Accenture, for proving that real progress starts where innovation meets inclusion, bringing AI and accessibility together to build a future where every voice is heard. 
    • JP Morgan Chase & Co., for designing a workplace where accessibility isn’t an add-on, rather is built in. With adaptive tech, inclusive design, and seamless assistive integration, they are setting the gold standard for digital belonging. 
    • Wells Fargo, for leading with top-down commitment and organization-wide impact, turning high-level vision into real accessibility progress, and raising the bar for inclusive digital experiences. 
       

    Honoree of the Sustainability Advocate Award: 

    • Salesforce, for backing bold words with bold action—investing in next-gen carbon removal, building low-impact events, and proving that sustainability at scale is possible. 

     
    Honorees of the Legacy Builder Award:  

    • IBM, for mastering the balance of honoring the past while building what’s next—bridging eras, empowering progress, and proving that evolution is the boldest legacy of all. 
    • Airbnb, for building a legacy through years of meaningful engagement, trusted partnership, and a commitment that continues to shape how their teams connect and grow. 
    • Shell, for evolving with purpose, turning institutional expertise into enduring impact through initiatives like “Legal – Better Together,” and showing how consistency builds legacy. 

    Honorees of the Future-First Leader Award: 

    • EY, for shaping what’s next by leaning in early and often, turning feedback into forward motion, and helping bring bold new ideas to life. 
    • Adobe, for leading with clarity and purpose, setting the standard for what employee experience can look like in an AI-powered world, and what thoughtful transformation really means.  

      More information about the winners and the full on-demand content from the Kaltura Connect on the Road event series can be found on the event’s virtual hub

    About Kaltura  

    Kaltura’s mission is to create and power AI-infused hyper-personalized video experiences that boost customer and employee engagement and success. Kaltura’s AI Video Experience Cloud includes a platform for enterprise and TV content management and a wide array of Gen AI-infused video-first products, including Video Portals, LMS and CMS Video Extensions, Virtual Events and Webinars, Virtual Classrooms, and TV Streaming Applications. Kaltura engages millions of end-users at home, at work, and at school, boosting both customer and employee experiences, including marketing, sales, and customer success; teaching, learning, training and certification; communication and collaboration; entertainment and monetization. For more information, visit www.corp.kaltura.com.  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: PrairieSky Receives TSX Approval for Renewed Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PrairieSky Royalty Ltd. (“PrairieSky” or the “Company“) (TSX: PSK) is pleased to announce that the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX“) has accepted the notice of PrairieSky’s intention to commence a normal course issuer bid (the “NCIB“).

    On April 14, 2025, PrairieSky announced its intention to seek TSX approval to renew its NCIB for an additional one-year period. The NCIB allows the Company to purchase up to 15,355,946 common shares which represents approximately 6.5% of the common shares outstanding, being 235,536,040 as of May 21, 2025, and 10% of the public float of 153,559,462 common shares which is defined as the common shares outstanding after excluding common shares beneficially owned by directors and executive officers of PrairieSky and persons who beneficially own or exercise control or direction over more than 10% of the issued and outstanding common shares of PrairieSky. The NCIB will commence on June 4, 2025 and will expire no later than June 3, 2026.

    Under the NCIB, common shares may be repurchased in open market transactions on the TSX, and/or other Canadian alternative trading systems. In accordance with the rules of the TSX governing normal course issuer bids, the total number of common shares the Company is permitted to purchase is subject to a daily purchase limit of 99,954 common shares, representing 25% of the average daily trading volume of common shares on the TSX calculated for the six-month period ended April 30, 2025, being approximately 399,818 common shares. However, the Company may make one block purchase per calendar week which exceeds the daily repurchase restriction. Any common shares that are purchased under the NCIB will be cancelled by PrairieSky.

    The Company believes that from time to time the market price of the common shares may not reflect their underlying value. The purchase of common shares will increase the proportion of interest of, and be advantageous to, all remaining shareholders. In addition, any purchases by the Company will afford increased liquidity to those shareholders of the Company who may wish to dispose of their common shares.

    PrairieSky has entered into an automatic share purchase plan with its broker, CIBC Capital Markets, in order to facilitate purchases of its common shares. The automatic purchase plan allows for purchases by the Company of its common shares at any time, including, without limitation, when the Company would ordinarily not be permitted to make purchases due to regulatory restriction or self-imposed blackout periods. Purchases will be made by PrairieSky’s broker based upon the parameters prescribed by the TSX and the terms of the parties’ written agreement.

    PrairieSky currently intends to purchase up to a maximum of 15,355,946 common shares to effect NCIB purchases over the next 12 months. PrairieSky purchased 3,415,900 common shares under its current normal course issuer bid which authorized the purchase for cancellation of up to 5,000,000 common shares and commenced on June 4, 2024 and runs to June 3, 2025. Since instituting the normal course issuer bid in 2016 to March 31, 2025, PrairieSky has purchased and cancelled an aggregate of 20.1 million common shares at a weighted average price per share of $16.74.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words “expect”, “anticipate”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “believe”, “intends”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include our expectations with respect the number of common shares under NCIB purchases to be effected over the next 12 months.

    With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this press release, we have made several assumptions including that the common shares will from time-to-time trade below their value, that the Company will complete purchases of common shares pursuant to the NCIB and those described in detail in our Management Discussion & Analysis and the Annual Information Form for the period ended December 31, 2024. Readers and investors are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such forward-looking statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Our actual results, performance, or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. We can give no assurance that any of the events anticipated will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits we will derive from them.

    By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control, including the market price of the common shares being too high to ensure that purchases benefit the Company and its shareholders, impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, stock market volatility and failure to execute purchases under the NCIB. The foregoing and other risks are described in more detail in PrairieSky’s Management Discussion & Analysis and the Annual Information Form for the period ended December 31, 2024 under the headings “Risk Management” and “Risk Factors”, respectively, each of which is available at www.sedarplus.com.

    Further, any forward-looking statement is made only as of the date of this press release, and PrairieSky undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement or statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by applicable securities laws. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for PrairieSky to predict all of these factors or to assess in advance the impact of each such factors on PrairieSky’s business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    ABOUT PRAIRIESKY ROYALTY LTD.

    PrairieSky is a royalty-focused company, generating royalty revenues as petroleum and natural gas are produced from its properties. PrairieSky has a diverse portfolio of properties that have a long history of generating funds from operations and that represent the largest and most concentrated independently-owned fee simple mineral title position in Canada. PrairieSky’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PSK.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    PrairieSky Royalty Ltd.

    Investor Relations
    (587) 293-4000

    www.prairiesky.com

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/6d0e44ba-aa7a-422f-b79d-9d3722a29243

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NowVertical Secures Up to $26 Million USD in Financing with HSBC to Fuel Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NowVertical Group Inc. (TSXV: NOW) (“NowVertical” or the “Company“), a leading data and AI solutions provider, announced that NowVertical, NowVertical UK Ltd. and NowVertical Group, Inc. and certain of their affiliates have entered into a senior secured facilities agreement (the “Facilities Agreement”) with HSBC UK Bank plc (“HSBC”), as arranger, original lender and agent. Unless otherwise specified, all dollar amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars.

    Pursuant to the Facilities Agreement, NowVertical UK Ltd. and NowVertical Group, Inc., as borrowers, have access to credit facilities of up to $18 million (together, the “Facilities”) which may be increased by up to an additional $8 million upon the approval of HSBC, for total credit of up to $26 million.

    This Financing Agreement is truly transformational for NowVertical,” said Sandeep Mendiratta, CEO of NowVertical. “It simplifies our capital structure by consolidating debt previously spread across multiple lenders into a single, long-term facility with significantly improved terms. This provides immediate access to capital to fuel our organic growth under the ‘One Brand, One Business’ strategy, while also positioning us to pursue targeted, strategic acquisitions. Importantly, the Facilities give us the flexibility to renegotiate or fully retire our existing convertible loan, materially reducing our cost of capital and preserving our cash position. Combined with a shift from short-term to long-term debt, this strengthens our balance sheet and allows us to operate with greater agility. HSBC’s support reflects the institutional confidence we’ve unlocked by evolving into a single, integrated business—providing enhanced capital access and a stronger foundation for scalable, strategic growth.”

    “We are pleased to support NowVertical’s next phase of growth,” said Chris Winter, Senior Corporate Relationship Director at HSBC. “This partnership underscores our confidence in NowVertical’s vision and growth strategy.”

    Pursuant to the Facilities Agreement, the borrowers have access to the Facilities, a portion of which will be used to repay existing debt, with the remainder available for general working capital purposes and acquisitions. The Facilities consist of: (i) a $6 million term loan, amortizing equally over 5 years and maturing on the fifth anniversary of the Facilities Agreement; and (ii) a $12 million revolving credit facility with an initial 3-year term, which may be extended for up to an additional 24 months. In addition, amounts available under the revolving credit facility may be increased to $20 million upon the exercise of an accordion option and certain ancillary facilities, subject to HSBC’s consent.

    Amounts drawn under the Facilities shall bear interest at a competitive interest rate ranging from 2.25% per annum to 3.75% per annum in respect of the term loan and 1.75% per annum to 3.25% per annum in respect of the revolving credit facility, in each case above the SOFR floating rate, with rates increasing or decreasing based on NowVertical’s net leverage position. In addition, NowVertical is obligated to pay a commitment fee in respect of undrawn amounts available under the revolving credit facility. The initial blended interest rate on the Facilities is approximately 7.25%.

    In connection with entering into the Facilities Agreement, NowVertical will use amounts available under the Facilities to prepay certain existing term debt, including obligations to TD Bank and Export Development Canada. The obligations of the borrowers under the Facilities have been guaranteed by NowVertical and certain of NowVertical’s subsidiaries, including NowVertical UK Limited, NowVertical UK Holdings Limited, Acrotrend Solutions Limited, NowVertical Group, Inc., and Resonant Analytics, LLC (collectively, the “Guarantors”), and security granted by the Company and the Guarantors, including: (i) a pledge of all of the issued and outstanding shares of each of the material Guarantors; and (ii) a security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Company and certain of the Guarantors.

    Concurrently with the execution of the Facilities Agreement, NowVertical entered into a subordination agreement with HSBC and TSX Trust Company (“TSX Trust”), in its capacity as trustee under the debenture indenture dated as of October 5, 2022, pursuant to which TSX Trust confirmed the subordination of the amounts owing to the holders of senior unsecured convertible debentures to obligations of NowVertical under the Facilities Agreement.

    NowVertical is pleased to have worked with Fort Capital Partners as its advisor on this transaction.

    About NowVertical Group Inc.
    NowVertical is a global data and analytics company which helps clients transform data into tangible business value with AI, fast. Offering a comprehensive suite of solutions and services, the Company enables clients to quickly harness the full potential of their data, driving measurable outcomes and accelerating potential return on investment. Enterprises optimize decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and unlock long-term value from their data using the Company’s AI-Infused first party and third-party technologies. NowVertical is growing organically and through strategic acquisitions.

    For further details about NowVertical, please visit www.nowvertical.com.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information, please contact:

    Andre Garber, CDO 
     IR@nowvertical.com 

    Investor Relations: Bristol Capital Ltd.
    Stefan Eftychiou
     stefan@bristolir.com
    +1(905)326-1888 x60 

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (together “forward-looking statements“), including, with respect to the availability of funds under the Facilities, the ability of NowVertical to utilize funds under the Facilities, the effect of the Facilities on NowVertical’s operations contemplated in this press release on NowVertical’s business, finances and operations. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, and contingencies, certain of which are unknown. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “should”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, “estimate”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe” or “continue”, or the negative thereof or similar variations. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by inherent risks and uncertainties, including: adverse market conditions; risks inherent in the data analytics and artificial intelligence sectors in general; regulatory and legislative changes; that future results may vary from historical results; inability to service the Company’s debt; any inability to realize the expected benefits and synergies of acquisitions or dispositions; that market competition may affect the business, results and financial condition of the Company and other risk factors identified in documents filed by the Company under its profile at www.sedarplus.com, including the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024. Further, these forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as expressly required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Behind Slim: How Samsung Engineered the Galaxy S25 Edge To Break Boundarie

    Source: Samsung

    Understanding users’ evolving needs is key to developing technology that truly matters. The new Galaxy S25 Edge combines flagship-level performance with a portable design, serving as a powerful pocket-sized AI companion that pushes the boundaries of what a mobile device can be.
     
    The Galaxy S25 Edge is more than just a slim smartphone. Every curve, contour and component reflects a breakthrough in precision engineering, delivering a premium experience befitting the S series’ legacy.
     
    Extensive experimentation was required to strike this balance, with numerous prototypes developed to test new combinations of components and structures — challenging established standards in mobile hardware design. The result is a no-compromise smartphone, meticulously engineered for design, performance and camera excellence.
     

     
     
    Ultrathin Yet Built To Last
    The Galaxy S25 Edge continues the design language of the S series while achieving the slimmest profile in Galaxy S series history — measuring just 5.8mm thick and weighing only 163g.
     
    To make this possible, the idea of a smartphone was reimagined from the ground up. The Galaxy S25 Edge’s internal structure features a new mounting system, allowing components to be placed with precision down to 0.1mm.
     
    But the new device isn’t just slim — it’s tough as well. Premium materials, including a titanium frame as seen in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, make up the Galaxy S25 Edge’s robust exterior. It’s further reinforced by Corning® Gorilla® Glass Ceramic 2, a new display cover material strengthened with Samsung’s processing techniques.
     
    It’s a careful balance of design and durability – all without compromise.
     

     

     

     

     
     
    Cool Under Pressure
    The Galaxy S25 Edge may be the slimmest S series device yet, but there’s nothing light about its performance. From everyday responsiveness to intense multitasking, Samsung’s latest smartphone delivers the same power and speed found across the Galaxy S25 series.
     
    At its heart is the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy1 – a powerful processor customized by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to set new standards for on-device AI processing and daily performance. True performance, however, goes beyond the chipset, especially in a device so thin.
     
    A custom thermal system — featuring a reconfigured vapor chamber 10% larger than the one used in the Galaxy S25+ — was developed to suit the Galaxy S25 Edge’s slim profile. To maintain thinness while efficiently managing heat, Samsung introduced a new “hole structure” — a first for Galaxy smartphones — in which a portion of the front metal frame was removed to allow more direct heat transfer from the application processor to the vapor chamber.
     
    In addition, a precisely tailored thermal interface material helps absorb and disperse heat from surrounding components. The outcome? A phone that stays fast, cool and responsive — no matter the task.
     
    The Galaxy S25 Edge shows that power doesn’t need more space — just smarter engineering.
     

     
     
    Ultra-level Camera
    A hallmark of the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the premium camera experience, and the Galaxy S25 Edge brings that level of performance to a sleek new form. Its dual camera system with wide and ultra-wide lenses includes a 200MP main sensor that captures Galaxy S25 Ultra-level shots with extraordinary clarity, vibrant color and true-to-life detail, even in challenging lighting conditions.
     
    The thickness of the main camera was reduced by more than 10% through structural optimization of the autofocus and optical image stabilization. A two-layer camera housing design offsets the module’s height, allowing the 200MP sensor to sit naturally within the frame without disrupting the phone’s silhouette. The result is a Galaxy camera experience fit for pros, now in a slimmer, more compact form.
     

     
    The Galaxy S25 Edge embodies Samsung’s dedication to overcoming long-standing limitations in mobile engineering. By uniting flagship performance, intelligent experiences and a pro-grade camera system in a slimmer, more refined form, the device unlocks what’s possible when every detail is designed with intention. More than a design milestone, the Galaxy S25 Edge marks the next chapter in mobile innovation — where design and engineering move forward, together.
     
     
    1 Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Survivor Assistance Available at Three New Locations

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Survivor Assistance Available at Three New Locations

    Survivor Assistance Available at Three New Locations

    LITTLE ROCK, Ark

    – The state of Arkansas, FEMA and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration have added three sites that offer face-to-face help for residents affected by the March 14-15 and April 2-22 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding

    Homeowners and renters in the impacted counties may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance for losses not covered by insurance

    Specialists are available to help you apply for FEMA assistance, review your existing application and submit documents needed to move your application forward

    The new locations include:FULTON COUNTYHardy Fire Station203 Church StreetHardy, AR 72452Days: May 30 – June 7; hours: 9 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

    Monday to Friday; 9 a

    m

    to 1 p

    m

    Saturday; Closed Sunday CRITTENDEN COUNTYEarle City Hall                                                                     1005 2nd StreetEarle, AR 72331 Days: June 2 – June 4; hours: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     CRAIGHEAD COUNTYLake City – City Hall406 Court StreetLake City, AR 72437 Days: June 2 – June 4; hours: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Additional locations are listed online at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and facebook

    com/FEMARegion6/

    Survivors in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp and Stone counties may apply for federal assistance if they had damage in the March storms

    Similarly, those who were affected by the April storms, tornadoes and flooding in Clark, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Desha, Fulton, Hot Spring, Jackson, Miller, Ouachita, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Sharp, St

    Francis and White counties may also apply

    Survivors affected by both the March and April storms should file a separate claim for each

    Here are the ways to apply:Go to DisasterAssistance

    govDownload the FEMA App for mobile devicesCall the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a

    m

    and 10 p

    m

    CT

    Help is available in most languages

     If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service

    For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

    The Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses of any size

    To apply online, visit https://lending

    sba

    gov or call 800- 659-2955

    For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services

    For the latest information about Arkansas’ recovery, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4865 or fema

    gov/disaster/4873

    Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6/

    thomas

    wise
    Fri, 05/30/2025 – 00:50

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Tests New Ways to Stick the Landing in Challenging Terrain

    Source: NASA

    Advancing new hazard detection and precision landing technologies to help future space missions successfully achieve safe and soft landings is a critical area of space research and development, particularly for future crewed missions. To support this, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) is pursuing a regular cadence of flight testing on a variety of vehicles, helping researchers rapidly advance these critical systems for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.  
    “These flight tests directly address some of NASA’s highest-ranked technology needs, or shortfalls, ranging from advanced guidance algorithms and terrain-relative navigation to lidar-and optical-based hazard detection and mapping,” said Dr. John M. Carson III, STMD technical integration manager for precision landing and based at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. 
    Since the beginning of this year, STMD has supported flight testing of four precision landing and hazard detection technologies from many sectors, including NASA, universities, and commercial industry. These cutting-edge solutions have flown aboard a suborbital rocket system, a high-speed jet, a helicopter, and a rocket-powered lander testbed. That’s four precision landing technologies tested on four different flight vehicles in four months. 
    “By flight testing these technologies on Earth in spaceflight-relevant trajectories and velocities, we’re demonstrating their capabilities and validating them with real data for transitioning technologies from the lab into mission applications,” said Dr. Carson. “This work also signals to industry and other partners that these capabilities are ready to push beyond NASA and academia and into the next generation of Moon and Mars landers.” 
    The following NASA-supported flight tests took place between February and May: 

    Identifying landmarks to calculate accurate navigation solutions is a key function of Draper’s Multi-Environment Navigator (DMEN), a vision-based navigation and hazard detection technology designed to improve safety and precision of lunar landings.  
    Aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard reusable suborbital rocket system, DMEN collected real-world data and validated its algorithms to advance it for use during the delivery of three NASA payloads as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. On Feb. 4, DMEN performed the latest in a series of tests supported by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program, which is managed at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. 
    During the February flight, which enabled testing at rocket speeds on ascent and descent, DMEN scanned the Earth below, identifying landmarks to calculate an accurate navigation solution. The technology achieved accuracy levels that helped Draper advance it for use in terrain-relative navigation, which is a key element of landing on other planets. 

    Several highly dynamic maneuvers and flight paths put Psionic’s Space Navigation Doppler Lidar (PSNDL) to the test while it collected navigation data at various altitudes, velocities, and orientations.  
    Psionic licensed NASA’s Navigation Doppler Lidar technology developed at Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, and created its own miniaturized system with improved functionality and component redundancies, making it more rugged for spaceflight. In February, PSNDL along with a full navigation sensor suite was mounted aboard an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft and underwent flight testing at NASA Armstrong.  
    The aircraft followed a variety of flight paths over several days, including a large figure-eight loop and several highly dynamic maneuvers over Death Valley, California. During these flights, PSNDL collected navigation data relevant for lunar and Mars entry and descent.  
    The high-speed flight tests demonstrated the sensor’s accuracy and navigation precision in challenging conditions, helping prepare the technology to land robots and astronauts on the Moon and Mars. These recent tests complemented previous Flight Opportunities-supported testing aboard a lander testbed to advance earlier versions of their PSNDL prototypes. 

    Researchers at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, developed a state-of-the-art Hazard Detection Lidar (HDL) sensor system to quickly map the surface from a vehicle descending at high speed to find safe landing sites in challenging locations, such as Europa (one of Jupiter’s moons), our own Moon, Mars, and other planetary bodies throughout the solar system. The HDL-scanning lidar generates three-dimensional digital elevation maps in real time, processing approximately 15 million laser measurements and mapping two football fields’ worth of terrain in only two seconds.  
    In mid-March, researchers tested the HDL from a helicopter at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with flights over a lunar-like test field with rocks and craters. The HDL collected numerous scans from several different altitudes and view angles to simulate a range of landing scenarios, generating real-time maps. Preliminary reviews of the data show excellent performance of the HDL system. 
    The HDL is a component of NASA’s Safe and Precise Landing – Integrated Capabilities Evolution (SPLICE) technology suite. The SPLICE descent and landing system integrates multiple component technologies, such as avionics, sensors, and algorithms, to enable landing in hard-to-reach areas of high scientific interest. The HDL team is also continuing to test and further improve the sensor for future flight opportunities and commercial applications. 

    Providing pinpoint landing guidance capability with minimum propellant usage, the San Diego State University (SDSU) powered-descent guidance algorithms seek to improve autonomous spacecraft precision landing and hazard avoidance. During a series of flight tests in April and May, supported by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program, the university’s software was integrated into Astrobotic’s Xodiac suborbital rocket-powered lander via hardware developed by Falcon ExoDynamics as part of NASA TechLeap Prize’s Nighttime Precision Landing Challenge.  
    The SDSU algorithms aim to improve landing capabilities by expanding the flexibility and trajectory-shaping ability and enhancing the propellant efficiency of powered-descent guidance systems. They have the potential for infusion into human and robotic missions to the Moon as well as high-mass Mars missions.  

    By advancing these and other important navigation, precision landing, and hazard detection technologies with frequent flight tests, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is prioritizing safe and successful touchdowns in challenging planetary environments for future space missions.  
    Learn more:  https://www.nasa.gov/space-technology-mission-directorate/  
    By: Lee Ann ObringerNASA’s Flight Opportunities program

    MIL OSI USA News

  • Stock market ends lower ahead of key GDP data

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic market closed lower in Friday’s trading session. At the end of trading, the Sensex was down 182.01 points or 0.22 per cent at 81,451.01 while the Nifty was down 82.9 points or 0.33 per cent at 24,750.70.

    Midcap and smallcap closed almost flat. The Nifty Midcap 100 index closed down 37.25 points at 57,420.00 and the Nifty Smallcap 100 index closed down 6.10 points at 17,883.30.

    Metal and IT stocks led the decline. Nifty Metal index closed down by 1.69 per cent and Nifty IT index down by 1.15 per cent. Apart from this, auto, pharma and FMCG sectors also saw a decline. Only PSU bank, financial services and media indices closed in the green.

    The Nifty remained volatile with a slightly negative bias on the first day of the June series. On the smaller time frame, the index has formed a bearish moving average crossover.

    “The RSI on the hourly chart indicates bearish price momentum, suggesting short-term weakness. Additionally, signs of exhaustion are visible on the daily RSI, accompanied by a strong negative divergence,” said Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities.

    However, Nifty has been struggling to move beyond a certain level. Immediate support is placed at 24,700; a breach below this level could lead to a decline towards 24,500. On the higher side, 24,800 is likely to act as a crucial resistance, as call writers have built significant positions at that level.

    The impact of GDP figures will be seen on the market in coming trading sessions, said analysts.

    A range-bound movement continued in the market, with the temporary reinstatement of US tariffs by the appeal court influencing investors to stay sidelined.

    “The global market may contend with macroeconomic concerns as the global trade landscape has yet to see stability, which may navigate a short-term consolidation. Meanwhile, FII inflows continued due to the volatility in the US 10-year yield and an expectation of solid domestic Q4 GDP data later today and a rate cut by RBI,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Investments Limited.

    Rupee traded weak by 8 paise at 85.52 as the dollar index gained 0.25 per cent to 99.46.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft supports social projects for children and teenagers in Russian regions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft and its subsidiaries, within the framework of cooperation agreements with Russian regions, are implementing projects aimed at creating a modern social infrastructure and a favorable environment for the development of medicine, mass sports, culture, educational projects and the upbringing of the younger generation.

    Bashneft supports the construction and reconstruction of children’s institutions within the framework of a cooperation agreement with the Republic of Bashkortostan. For example, in 2024, the Children’s Art Center in the village of Verkhneyarkeevo in the Ilishevsky District was reconstructed, a multifunctional educational center was built in the village of Elan-Chishma in the Yermekeyevsky District, Ufa kindergarten No. 2 was improved, and a multifunctional sports and health complex was built on the territory of the Republican Engineering Boarding School in Ufa.

    In the Samara Region, with the support of Rosneft, the reconstruction of schools No. 28 and No. 29 in Syzran, the Harmony gymnasium in Otradny and school No. 24 in Samara has been completed. Thanks to the help of oil workers, the children’s surgical department and the perinatal center of the Syzran Central City Hospital have been equipped with high-tech equipment. They now have an operating table, an operating shadowless lamp and an open resuscitation system for newborns.

    With the support of Rosneft, a new building of the Small Academy of Sciences with modern laboratories, a biotechnology center with laboratories for genomics and the study of ancient DNA, an IT center, a library, a TV studio, a sports hall and a gym was built in Yakutia. Children’s playgrounds and sports grounds were also opened in Yakutsk, Tas-Yuryakh, Myndyb and elsewhere. In the sponsored school of the Botuobuinsky nasleg of the Mirninsky district, in the school where children of indigenous peoples study, the robotics rooms, 3D modeling, and the press center were renovated, a stadium was built and the assembly hall was reconstructed.

    Under the agreement with the government of Yugra, Rosneft supports the construction and reconstruction of educational and sports institutions in the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug. In 2024, a kindergarten, the Lider and MediaQuant youth clubs, and an outdoor sports and play complex were opened in Nizhnevartovsk.

    RN-Yuganskneftegaz is implementing a comprehensive program to support children and young people. In 2024, School No. 9 in Khanty-Mansiysk received modern equipment, including interactive panels and equipment for physics lessons. Much attention is paid to the development of children’s sports: ten sports schools in Yugra received almost a thousand units of modern hockey equipment, including sticks, skates and protective helmets. A modern sports complex was opened in the village of Lyamina.

    In Achinsk, with the support of the Company, major repairs are underway at the inpatient department of the Krasnoyarsk Regional Center for the Protection of Motherhood and Childhood No. 2.

    A project IT laboratory has been opened in Udmurtia and two sports halls have been renovated in School No. 12 in the city of Votkinsk in Udmurtia. The laboratory is equipped with modern technology, including an interactive panel, a 3D printer, a laser 3D scanner and all the necessary software.

    In addition, the Company creates “Rosneft-classes” in the regions of its operations based on the best educational institutions: schools, lyceums and gymnasiums. As part of the project, students receive a high-quality general secondary education. Schoolchildren in grades 10-11 study according to programs with in-depth study of mathematics, physics, chemistry and computer science. The project is aimed at career guidance and motivation of teenagers to enter universities in the Company’s core specialties and subsequent employment of graduates at Rosneft enterprises.

    In the completed academic year, 2.7 thousand schoolchildren studied in 118 Rosneft-classes. The project is being implemented in 56 general education organizations located in 47 cities and towns in 20 regions of Russia.

    In anticipation of International Children’s Day, volunteers of the Company and its subsidiaries are organizing dozens of festive events aimed at developing sports and a healthy lifestyle, and the cultural and patriotic education of youth.

    Kuibyshev Oil Refinery presented an educational interactive project “City of Safety”. Hundreds of children and teenagers have already taken part in it. In a game format, children learn the rules of safe behavior in various life situations, including road traffic and the Internet.

    Workers of the Novokuibyshevsk Oil Refinery organized a holiday for children from social institutions of the city with quizzes dedicated to oil professions. Oil refiners annually organize an ecological family festival “Ecofest” for city residents; this year the festival brought together more than 400 schoolchildren.

    Volunteers of the Syzran Oil Refinery brought gifts to the children of the center for helping children left without parental care. Samaraneftegaz organized a holiday for the children of employees called “Hello, Summer!” with the participation of representatives of the Russian Emergencies Ministry, who conducted a safety lesson in an entertaining manner.

    Employees of the Saratov Oil Refinery conducted an interactive lesson “Ecology” for kindergarten children and donated sports equipment to the social rehabilitation center “Vozvrashchenie”.

    Slavneft-Krasnoyarskneftegaz organized a city football tournament in Krasnoyarsk, during which 150 children had the opportunity to play at a professional stadium. In Krasnoyarsk Krai, oil workers delivered gifts to kindergarten children in the remote village of Kuyumba, overcoming a difficult route by helicopter and special equipment.

    Orenburgneft volunteers conducted a series of eco-lessons as part of the Eco-School environmental marathon, where students were told about a responsible attitude towards the environment.

    Tyumenneftegaz organized a big family day out in the fresh air with sports games, master classes and treats. Volunteers of Kharampurneftegaz organized an excursion to the zoo and an environmental quiz for the children of the Siyanie Severa family center. Volunteers of the corporate institute in Tomsk together with Tomsk Polytechnic University organized a quest game for schoolchildren of the city called “Oil Journey: from the Deposit to the Gas Station”. In a game form, the participants got acquainted with oil and gas professions, and as a reward, the winners received additional points for admission to the university.

    Rosneft Scientific Institute in Ufa is implementing a volunteer project called “Social Tutor”. For the fifth year in a row, the institute’s employees have been voluntarily tutoring children from low-income families online.

    Employees of Rosneft-Stavropol together with representatives of the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate held road safety lessons for preschoolers. At the Rosneft gas station in Stavropol Krai, young guests received educational books with creative tasks “Travel with a Polar Bear Cub” as a gift. In Arkhangelsk, RN-North-West organized an educational event “Children for Safe Roads”, where children studied traffic rules and tried themselves in the role of drivers.

    Rosneft employees take an active part in all-Russian and regional campaigns, including the New Year’s “Wish Tree”, “Help Go to School”, “Give a Child a Holiday”, “Spring Week of Kindness”, “Warmth for Children”, “A Backpack for a First-Grader”, “Let’s Get a Child Ready for School”, “There Are No Other People’s Children”, “Santa Claus in Every Home”, “A Gift for School”, “A Gift from Santa Claus” and others.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft May 30, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “AI and machine learning are powerful technologies, but not everyone has learned how to apply them”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The global education industry’s revenue growth could reach 4% in the coming years thanks to the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies. In addition, AI reduces the working hours of teachers by 4-5 times. HSE experts explained how teachers and administrative staff of universities are mastering neural networks, bots and other tools and why there is no need to be afraid that AI will replace them.

    AI is being introduced into higher education

    According to data research HSE and Yandex Education, 49% of students already use generative technologies, and 54% of university employees are confident that these skills will positively influence the career development of students. However, AI technologies are actively used not only by students, but also by teachers and administrative staff.

    Possible scenarios for the use of AI by teachers:

    work with educational programs, curricula, individual modules and topics;

    development of educational content: presentation materials, tests, essay topics;

    assessment of written work and analysis of students’ skills.

    Possible scenarios for the use of AI by university administrations:

    optimization of the educational schedule;

    consulting students on organizational issues and applicants on admission issues;

    analytics and forecasting of educational results;

    creation of marketing content;

    management of local regulatory documents, generation of documents upon request.

    Features of training teachers in AI tools

    Mass training of teachers is not an easy task. To teach such a demanding audience, highly qualified lecturers are needed, and this is a limited resource. Teachers from different faculties and areas expect to receive subject knowledge and specific tools that will allow them to automate the execution of various tasks right now. And all listeners want to hear about cases that are directly related to their field, explained Evgeny Sokolov, scientific director of the Center for Continuous Education, head of Department of Big Data and Information Retrieval HSE Faculty of Computer Science.

    “This complexity is not new at all: we have extensive experience in corporate training in the field of AI, and there we also always hear a request for very specific recommendations and very close cases,” says Evgeny Sokolov. “And this always requires elaboration and explanation. Yes, AI and machine learning are extremely powerful technologies that have already proven themselves and that may have great prospects. But not everyone has learned to use them, not everyone has bright examples of implementation. And therefore we can explain what it is and how it works, show how it brings a lot of benefits in other areas, and then together think about transferring this experience.”

    In total, in 2024, HSE trained 1,750 teachers, researchers, and administrative staff from all campuses to work with artificial intelligence for free. The training was conducted as part of the Priority 2030 strategic academic leadership program. Employees could choose one of the areas based on their level of training — from prompting and Python programming to machine and deep learning.

    Here are some of the applied skills that students learn:

    using generative models to simplify and automate work;

    data analysis and visualization;

    using Python for editing and generating text files: contracts, memos in pdf and word;

    Sending Emails with Python;

    creation of telegram bots to collect information from students, etc.

    The core of the teaching staff of the programs was made up of specialists Faculty of Computer Science HSE University. The organization of advanced training programs was carried out by Center for Continuous Education of the Faculty of Computer Science, and administrative support for all courses was provided by Center for Advanced Studies.

    The Center for Continuous Education of the Faculty of Computer Science trains not only HSE employees. Employees of the Irkutsk National Research Technical University passed advanced training program “Python for automation and data analysis”, and employees of the Vladivostok State University of Economics and Service – program advanced training “Modern approaches and methods of teaching the course “Digital Literacy””.

    How Teachers Are Using AI in Their Work

    Project work plays a significant role in the programs. Students reflect on how AI methods can be useful in their tasks, formulate corresponding ideas and receive feedback from experts. These are ideas about simplifying teaching routines, restructuring disciplines and new research tasks.

    Then these proposals begin to receive full implementation. Within the framework of the program, each student prepares a final project on the implementation of neural networks in work processes, some of which are already successfully used in practice.

    For example, the course “Venture Capital” has an assistant based on the bot-psychologist “Anna”. The AI assistant interacts with students, helps answer difficult questions and improve psychological preparation for interaction with investors. Using the assistant has improved the quality of students’ training and provided new tools for discussing the psychological aspects of entrepreneurship.

    Another example is the use of AI to create educational materials. Tools such as Narakeet and invideo AI reduce the time it takes to create presentation-quality video materials by more than 10 times. Teachers now have a wider range of ready-made templates and ideas for visual presentation of lecture material. All this makes the educational process more visual and understandable for students.

    According to teachers, after training they use AI to prepare notes, presentations, cases and tests, check assignments, work with databases, search for scientific literature, and translate texts.

    “Useful content, accessible presentation of the material, as well as patience with our pace and questions. I was genuinely interested in the tools presented in the course, I will study and apply them further in my work. To be honest, I did not even guess that the speed of a heart attack can be predicted by the voice, and about some other discoveries that have already been implemented in practice. So special thanks for keeping us informed of human technical progress,” noted Anastasia Pyatachkova, Deputy Head of the Asia-Pacific Sector. Centre for Comprehensive European and International Studies HSE.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Financial results for month ended April 30, 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Financial results for month ended April 30, 2025 

     April 30, 2025
    HK$ millionrepayment of Government Bondsissuance of Government Bondsrepayment of Government BondsGovernment Debts as at April 30, 2025 (Note 3)
        HK$306,963 million
    Debts Guaranteed by Government as at April 30, 2025 (Note 4)
        HK$126,268 million

    TABLE 2. FISCAL RESERVES
     

     April 30, 2025
    HK$ millionrepayment of Government BondsNotes:

    1. This Account consolidates the General Revenue Account and the following eight Funds: Capital Works Reserve Fund, Capital Investment Fund, Civil Service Pension Reserve Fund, Disaster Relief Fund, Innovation and Technology Fund, Land Fund, Loan Fund and Lotteries Fund. It excludes the Bond Fund, the balance of which is not part of the fiscal reserves. The Bond Fund balance as at April 30, 2025, was HK$218,575 million.Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arrangements for admission of professionals of specified skilled trades announced

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Arrangements for admission of professionals of specified skilled trades announced 
         The Technical Professional List covers eight specified skilled trades, namely new industrialisation technicians, nurses, aircraft maintenance technicians, marine services technicians (for local vessels), information technology technicians, lift/escalator technicians, building information modeling coordinators and electrical technicians. Applicants are to meet the requirements on qualifications, work experience, professional skills (e.g. registration or license to practice), etc, of the specific skilled trade as listed on the List. In addition, according to the prevailing requirements under the GEP and the ASMTP, the relevant professionals are required to have secured an employment offer from a local enterprise before application, and the remuneration package should be commensurate with the market level for similar jobs.
     
         Depending on the skilled trade and the applicant’s qualifications, the first entry visa will be valid for 24 or 36 months. When applying for visa renewal, a technical professional must continue to be employed in the same skilled trade in Hong Kong. If his/her visa renewal application is approved, an extension of stay of not more than 36 months, or in accordance with the validity period of his/her employment contract (whichever is shorter), may be granted.
     
         A Government spokesperson said, “According to the 2023 Manpower Projection published last year, Hong Kong is expected to face an overall manpower shortage of 180 000 by 2028, over one-third of which will be skilled technical workers. As such, the 2024 Policy Address announced that a new channel would be introduced to attract young and experienced non-degree professionals to join skilled trades facing acute manpower shortage. The Technical Professional List was compiled by relevant bureaux and departments after careful consideration and in consultation with stakeholders of various industries and sectors. The eight skilled trades identified are all critical to sustaining Hong Kong’s city operation, facing acute manpower shortage at least in the next five years, and in need of manpower that cannot be replenished by local training in good time.”
     
         “The new channel targets mid-level qualified and experienced non-degree technical professionals of specified trades and attracts them to settle in Hong Kong in the long run. This is distinct from and does not overlap with the existing Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme and sector-specific labour importation schemes. The new arrangement will be on a pilot basis for three years, subject to a review after the first year. Meanwhile, the Government will continue its commitment to training for local workers,” the spokesman added.
     
         Under the employment-tied GEP and the ASMTP, employers may apply to employ outside talent, normally with a bachelor’s degree or higher qualifications, to fill job vacancies that could not be readily taken up by locals. For vacancies falling under the professions in the Talent List, the enterprises are not required to conduct a market availability test to prove difficulties in local recruitment before making applications. Employers submitting applications in future through the new technical professional stream under the two schemes will also enjoy such exemption from conducting a market availability test.
     
         Details of the skilled trades of the Technical Professional List, the respective description of tasks and qualification requirements have been uploaded to the website of the Immigration Department (ImmD) (www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/TPStream.htmlIssued at HKT 15:45

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCED attends Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting in Japan (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCED attends Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting in Japan  
         Speaking at a discussion session, Mr Yau shared with participating ministers Hong Kong’s latest efforts in building sustainable and accessible information and communications technology infrastructure, as well as its commitment to a more inclusive and resilient digital future.
     
         Mr Yau said that since the full liberalisation of its telecommunications market in 2003, Hong Kong’s telecommunications sector has become one of the most advanced, open, and dynamic markets globally. Hong Kong leads the world in mobile voice affordability, ranks second globally in mobile broadband affordability and seventh in fixed broadband affordability. Hong Kong’s 5G availability also ranks first in the Asia-Pacific region.
     
         Mr Yau highlighted that Hong Kong’s robust infrastructure provides a strong foundation for sustainable telecommunications development, including future 6G deployment and other cutting-edge services. The 6G Global Summit held in Hong Kong earlier this month, first held in the Asia-Pacific region, also fostered ideas and rallied regional support for 6G development.
     
         Turning to innovation and technology (I&T), Mr Yau said that Hong Kong promulgated the Hong Kong I&T Development Blueprint in 2022, setting out clear development directions and major strategies including accelerating the development of new digital infrastructure.
     
         He added that artificial intelligence opens up vast new opportunities for global economic development and scientific research. Hong Kong has been pursuing an all-round strategy to develop the AI ecosystem on various fronts, such as the launch of the AI Supercomputing Centre by Cyberport to meet the strong local demand for high-performance computing power.
     
         Mr Yau said that Hong Kong will continue to work hand in hand with fellow members and stakeholders to advance sustainable infrastructure and promote eco-friendly information and communications technology for a connected future.
     
         In addition to attending the APT meeting, Mr Yau also took the opportunity to meet with Japanese political and business leaders during his stay in Tokyo. Mr Yau today paid a courtesy call on the Chairman of the Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarian League, Ms Jimi Hanako, a Member of the House of Councillors, to give her an update on Hong Kong’s latest economic and trade developments.
     
         Upon arrival yesterday (May 29), Mr Yau paid a courtesy call on the State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr Miyaji Takuma. Recognising the close bilateral relations between the two places, Mr Yau updated him on the robust economic developments in Hong Kong on various fronts under the “one country, two systems” principle, and solicited Japan’s support for Hong Kong’s early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. Mr Yau also met with representatives of Keizai Doyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives) to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and investment opportunities.
     
         Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong tomorrow (May 31) after the APT Ministerial Meeting concludes.
    Issued at HKT 17:30

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remuneration package for Members of Eighth-Term LegCo

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Remuneration package for Members of Eighth-Term LegCo 
    A Government spokesman said today (May 30) that the Independent Commission had conducted a thorough review on the remuneration package for Members of the Eighth-Term LegCo. The Independent Commission had adopted a holistic approach and taken into account a host of factors before arriving at its recommendations.
     
    Factors that the Independent Commission had considered include:

    (a) the role and functions of LegCo Members;
    (b) the objective to enable a broad spectrum of quality individuals from different sectors of the community to serve the public in the capacity of LegCo Members vis-a-vis other pursuits;
    (c) the provision of a remuneration package that is adequate for LegCo Members to discharge their core duties;
    (d) views of LegCo Members;
    (e) utilisation rates of the allowances currently available to Members;
    (f) the economic situation of Hong Kong; and
    (g) market rates of salaries and rentals.
     
    Concerning the proposals put forward by the LegCo Subcommittee on Members’ Remuneration and Operating Expenses Reimbursement (LegCo Subcommittee) to the Independent Commission in July last year, the Independent Commission considers the proposals to adopt a weighted index as the basis for annual adjustment to Members’ Office Operation Expenses Reimbursement (OOER) and abolish the one-third reduction in the monthly remuneration for LegCo Members who also serve on the Executive Council (ExCo) (Dual Members) reasonable. However, in the face of the economic situation and the pressure on public finances, including the Government proposing in the 2025-26 Budget to reinforce the fiscal consolidation programme to strictly contain public expenditure, the Independent Commission recognises that it may not be a suitable time to implement changes in the remuneration package for LegCo Members which may lead to additional financial implications.   
     
    The Independent Commission has also reviewed other components of the remuneration package, including the monthly remuneration for the LegCo President, the President’s Deputy and other LegCo Members, end-of-service gratuity and medical allowance, as well as the OOER, Entertainment and Travelling Expenses Reimbursement (ETER), Setting Up and Information Technology Expenses Reimbursement (SUITER) and Winding Up Expenses Reimbursement (WUER). The Independent Commission considers the current levels adequate and recommends that status quo be maintained for these items. The Independent Commission therefore recommends that the existing remuneration package of the Seventh-Term LegCo be adopted for Members of the Eighth-Term LegCo. 
     
    “The Government expresses its gratitude towards the Independent Commission for its dedicated efforts in and valuable advice on reviewing the remuneration package for Members of the Eighth-Term LegCo, as well as to the LegCo Subcommittee for making proposals to the Independent Commission.
     
         “On the proposal to abolish the one-third reduction in the monthly remuneration for Dual Members, the Government accepts the observations of the Independent Commission that as a matter of principle, a Dual Member is performing two roles and does not devote lesser time in LegCo as compared with their counterparts, and should be entitled to both honoraria in full. The Government also acknowledges the contributions and dedication of Dual Members to society, particularly in balancing their dual roles in both the ExCo and LegCo to assist the Government in gathering public opinions and explaining policies,” the spokesman said. 
     
    In accordance with the said decision, the remuneration package for Members of the Eighth-Term LegCo (based on the rate effective from October 1, 2024) (Note 1) will comprise:(b) end-of-service gratuity at 15 per cent of the total remuneration for the term (payable at term end per term);
    (c) medical allowance at $37,890 per annum;
    (d) OOER at $2,984,860 per annum;
    (e) ETER at $238,400 per annum (Note 3);
    (f) SUITER at $375,000 per term (Note 4); and
    (g) WUER (being 1/12 of the annual OOER plus actual severance payments per term).
     
    Based on the remuneration package effective from October 1, 2024, the total funding for the remuneration package for Members of the Eighth-Term LegCo is estimated to be about $1.76 billion, or about $19.7 million per Member per term.  Implementing the results of the current review will not bring about additional financial implications.
     
    The Independent Commission is chaired by Mr Carlson Tong and comprises Mr Kevin Lam, Ms Winnie Tam, Mr Philip Tsai, Professor Alexander Wai and Ms Winnie Wong as members. It advises the Chief Executive, among others, on the remuneration package for LegCo Members. The Independent Commission started a comprehensive review of the remuneration package for Members of the Eighth-Term LegCo in mid-2024 and completed it in May 2025. The Independent Commission’s Review Report is available at www.admwing.gov.hk/pdf/IC Report_Eng.pdf 
    Note 1: The existing mechanism whereby Members’ monthly remuneration, medical allowance, OOER, ETER and the LegCo President’s additional entertainment allowance will be adjusted in October each year in accordance with movements of the Consumer Price Index (C) will be maintained.
     
    Note 2: The existing arrangement that the monthly remuneration for the LegCo President, the President’s Deputy and Dual Members will be fixed at 200 per cent, 150 per cent and two-thirds of the monthly remuneration of their fellow LegCo Members respectively will be maintained.
     
    Note 3: The LegCo President is entitled to an additional President’s Entertainment Allowance at $238,630 per annum.
     
    Note 4: For Members who have claimed setting up expenses in the previous term, they can claim $262,500 in the new term.
    Issued at HKT 17:15

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