Politics – Page 42 – NewzIntel.com

MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 25, 2025

ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 25, 2025.

Gangs are going global and so is the illegal gun trade – NZ can do more to fight it
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato According to the Global Organised Crime Index, international criminal activity has increased over the past two years. And the politically fractured post-pandemic world has made this even harder for nations to combat. New Zealand is far from immune. According

Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu
By Ezra Toara in Port Vila Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”. The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change. The

3 reasons young people are more likely to believe conspiracy theories – and how we can help them discover the truth
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jean-Nicolas Bordeleau, Research Fellow, Jeff Bleich Centre for Democracy and Disruptive Technologies, Flinders University Conspiracy theories are a widespread occurrence in today’s hyper connected and polarised world. Events such as Brexit, the 2016 and 2020 United States presidential elections, and the COVID pandemic serve as potent reminders

Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Santosh Tadakamadla, Professor and Head of Dentistry and Oral Health, La Trobe University Just over one-third of Australians are eligible for public dental services, which provide free or low cost dental treatment. Yet demand for these services continues to exceed supply. As a result, many Australian adults

Butter wars: ‘nothing cures high prices like high prices’ – but will market forces be enough?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Renwick, Professor of Agricultural Economics, Lincoln University, New Zealand RobynRoper/Getty Images The alarming rise of butter prices has become a real source of frustration for New Zealand consumers, as well as a topic of political recrimination. The issue has become so serious that Miles Hurrell, chief

Ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly has been certified as ‘sustainable’. Is that an oxymoron?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harriette Richards, Senior Lecturer, School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University Carol Yepes/Getty Images Last week, the ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly received B Corp certification. This certification is designed to accredit for-profit businesses that provide social impact and environmental benefit. Established on the Gold Coast in

AI will soon be able to audit all published research – what will that mean for public trust in science?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Kaurov, PhD Candidate in Science and Society, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Jamillah Knowles & Digit/Better Images of AI, CC BY-SA Self-correction is fundamental to science. One of its most important forms is peer review, when anonymous experts scrutinise research before it is

Columbia’s $200M deal with Trump administration sets a precedent for other universities to bend to the government’s will
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Cantwell, Associate Professor of Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, Michigan State University Students at Columbia University in New York City on April 14, 2025. Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images Columbia University agreed on July 23, 2025, to pay a US$200 million fine to the federal government

Miles Franklin 2025: Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities is a haunting comedy about tyranny. Is it the funniest winner ever?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joseph Steinberg, Forrest Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, English & Literary Studies, The University of Western Australia Siang Lu David Kelly/UQP The Miles Franklin judges described Siang Lu’s Ghost Cities, winner of the 2025 award, as “a grand farce and a haunting meditation on diaspora”. To my mind, it

Keep fighting for a nuclear-free Pacific, Helen Clark warns Greenpeace over global storm clouds
Asia Pacific Report Former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark warned activists and campaigners in a speech on the deck of the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior III last night to be wary of global “storm clouds” and the renewed existential threat of nuclear weapons. Speaking on her reflections on four decades after the bombing

Business coalition calls for 25% cut in the cost of red tape by 2030
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Business, universities, and investors have jointly urged the federal government to commit to cutting the cost of red tape by 25% by 2030, in a submission for next month’s Economic Reform Roundtable. The push to reduce regulation is in line

Grattan on Friday: net zero battle has net zero positives for Sussan Ley
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra There’s no other way of looking at it: Sussan Ley faces a diabolical situation with the debate over whether the Coalition should abandon the 2050 net zero emissions target. The issue is a microcosm of her wider problems. The Nationals,

The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed

Reserve Bank says unemployment rise was not a shock, inflation on track
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock has fleshed out the central bank’s thinking behind its surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold this month. In a speech today to the Anika Foundation, Bullock said there has been:

Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief
This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman. More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory. The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and

Historic ruling finds climate change ‘imperils all forms of life’ and puts laggard nations on notice
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacqueline Peel, Professor of Law and Director, Melbourne Climate Futures, The University of Melbourne Hilaire Bule/Getty Climate change “imperils all forms of life” and countries must tackle the problem or face consequences under international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has found. The court delivered its

Jet ski accidents are tragic but preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risk
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne Richard Hamilton Smith/Getty Two teenage boys were thrown from a jet ski during a ride on the Georges River in Sydney’s south this week. One died at the scene. The other

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 25, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: What makes a song ‘Australian’? Triple J’s Hottest 100 reignites a bigger question of national identity

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Strong, Associate Professor, Music Industry, RMIT University

On July 26, Triple J will broadcast the Hottest 100 Australian Songs, as voted by the public. While predictions for winners and even preemptive complaining about the shortlist are taking up column space and social media posts, there is an underlying question: what we mean when we talk about “Australian songs”?

Do these songs sound a particular way? Do they express something about what it means to be Australian? Or is it purely about where the artist was born?

Importantly, how will each of these factors influence voting?

Can a song sound Australian?

Musical cultures with their own unique sounds have existed on this continent for tens of thousands of years. The sound of the didgeridoo is often used as a shorthand to signify Australianness in films, television and, to a lesser extent, popular songs.

However, the history of dispossession and genocidal practices that have accompanied settlement in Australia means much has been lost from these musical traditions. Indigenous performers have been actively excluded from the same music-making spaces where other songs we think of as “Australian” have been created.

Since British colonisation in the late 18th century, Australian music has also been part of global music flows. Settlers arrived with songs and musical influences from their own cultures. Jazz, country, rock and pop inspired local versions of these genres.

But is there anything truly Australian about such music, or is it just imitation? And this conundrum connects to wider issues of Australia’s identity debated during the 20th century: was it a country, or still just a colony?

Back in the 1970s, this question was also on then prime minister Gough Whitlams’s mind. After his election in 1972, Whitlam gave a huge boost to funding for cultural and creative activities to “help establish and express an Australian identity through the arts”, as part of a suite of nation-building activities.

Building the pub rock canon

The dirty guitar sounds of the pub rock scene of the 1970s, with its associated subcultures, are sometimes said to be Australia’s first distinct offering in post-rock ‘n’ roll music.

This was followed by the rise of bands such as Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel, who found success not just by drawing on more local sounds, but also by referencing Australian places, politics and cultures.

The Whitlam government’s broadcasting reforms meant this music had homes on community radio and the new youth station 2JJ (now Triple J).

The bands from this era have come to make up what might be described as the Oz rock canon – a collection of works seen to make up the “best” of the art form. Canons exert a strong influence over how we assess music, meaning these bands will probably appear in the tomorrow’s countdown.

This idea of the rock canon is almost perfectly reflected in the ten entries by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to tomorrow’s countdown. His selection of almost 100% white male musicians encapsulates the exclusionary nature rock of this period.

The fact that our last two prime ministers, despite being from opposite sides of politics, produced very similar lists, gives us insight into the persistence of this canon, and what ideas about “Australian culture” circulate in the halls of power.

It’s questionable whether any of the bands or songs on Albanese’s list could be said to have a coherent “Australian” sound, yet they have come to hold a place in the national imagination.

Changing canons and new sounds

Triple J’s Hottest 100 of All Time in 2009 was seen as a surprising recapitulation of the (male) rock canon, especially given the station’s otherwise diverse playlists.

However, the highest-placed Australian song on the list was The Nosebleed Section by Hilltop Hoods, representing the recent and rapid rise of Aussie hip-hop.

The 2011 Hottest 100 Australian Albums of All Time (the closest forerunner to the current poll) further updated the canon, with Powderfinger’s Odyssey Number Five (2000) in the top spot, and other top ten entries by electronic groups The Presets and The Avalanches.

Nonetheless, the canon remained male dominated, with the highest woman-fronted album being Missy Higgins’s The Sound of White (2004) at number 29.

The past decade has seen a boom in Indigenous representation on Australian airwaves and stages, with artists such as Thelma Plum, Barkaa, A.B. Original and Baker Boy.

These artists use a range of genres and styles to express pride in their Indigeneity, and critique Australian identity. A.B. Original’s song January 26 was number 17 in 2016’s Hottest 100 countdown. This was also the last year Triple J chose this date for its annual broadcast, speaking to the power of music to reflect – and even inform – popular sentiment.

Given recent national debates, a strong contender for the upcoming poll is Treaty (Radio Mix) by Yothu Yindi (which ranked number 11 of all time in 1991). These shifts show how canons can be unsettled over time.

What if we don’t all agree?

Recently, Creative Australia came under fire for trying to stifle Khaled Sabsabi’s politically-informed art in the interests of “social cohesion”.

But others pointed out art provides crucial space for challenging prevailing ideas, and that social cohesion in a democracy is not about reaching complete agreement, but being able to handle disagreement.

A Hottest 100 that reflects the diversity and even the tensions in Australian society may provoke arguments, but it is in these spaces that we can reflect on what it means to live on these lands.

Ben Green receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Australasian Performing Right Association.

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

– ref. What makes a song ‘Australian’? Triple J’s Hottest 100 reignites a bigger question of national identity – https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-song-australian-triple-js-hottest-100-reignites-a-bigger-question-of-national-identity-261560

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: News 07/24/2025 Blackburn, Warner, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect American Taxpayers from Stolen Tax Refund Checks

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) introduced the bipartisan Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, which would allow American taxpayers who have their paper checks from the U.S. Department of Treasury lost or stolen in the mail to receive their payment by electronic deposit:

“An outdated IRS policy is leaving Tennesseans vulnerable to having their tax refund checks repeatedly lost or stolen in the mail,” said Senator Blackburn. “When those refunds don’t arrive on time, it puts real strain on hardworking families. The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act would allow taxpayers to receive a direct deposit from the Treasury Department rather than another check a criminal could intercept.”

“With check fraud costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, it makes no sense for the federal government to keep reissuing vulnerable paper checks after they have already been stolen or gone missing,” said Senator Warner. “This bipartisan bill offers a smart, secure fix by letting taxpayers opt for direct deposit so they can get their money faster and more safely.”

The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.).

This legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives and is sponsored by Representatives David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), and Terri Sewell (D-Ala.).

BACKGROUND

Tax refund theft is on the rise, with two postal workers charged in May in connection to a $63 million scheme to steal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) refund checks.

Criminals take stolen IRS refund checks and sell them on the dark web. One investigation found 4,000 to 5,000 stolen checks for sale every month.

The total loss for American taxpayers for stolen mail is hundreds of millions of dollars.

Currently, if an IRS refund check is stolen, a taxpayer can only be issued a replacement paper check. This leaves the taxpayer vulnerable to having their refund check stolen again.

THE RECOVERY OF STOLEN CHECKS ACT

The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act would require Department of the Treasury to establish a secure, streamlined process that allows eligible taxpayers to receive their replacement refunds electronically via direct deposit, helping reduce the risk of theft, delays, and fraud.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy introduces bill to open door to homeownership for American families

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, today introduced the Build Now Act, which would incentivize new home construction by tying federal funds to cities’ rates of homebuilding. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee, joined Kennedy in introducing the bill.

“In my book, homeownership shouldn’t be a pipe dream for the average American family. Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with me. Government overregulation has brought homebuilding to a grinding halt and left ordinary people twisting in the wind as existing home prices went through the roof. I’m proud to introduce the Build Now Act to discourage pointless roadblocks and incentivize cities to help make the American Dream possible again,” said Kennedy.

“Americans are suffering under sky-high housing prices caused by a worsening housing shortage. The Federal government should use the tools at our disposal to reward communities that are taking bold action to build more housing and reduce families’ biggest monthly expense. It’s time for Congress to act—and this bipartisan proposal is a call to action to communities across the country to build housing now,” said Warren.

The United States today faces a housing crisis. Since 2021, the annual income needed to qualify for a mortgage has increased by 60%, driving the median age of a first-time home buyer to a record-high 38 years old.

By May 2025, new home construction rates had collapsed to their lowest level since the pandemic. On an annual basis, new home construction has fallen nearly 5%.

Currently, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) provides annual grants to states, cities and counties irrespective of their rate of homebuilding.

The Build Now Act would:

Require HUD to remove 10% of CDBG funding from cities that fail to improve their rate of homebuilding above the national median.

Order HUD to proportionally reallocate those CDBG funds to cities that exceeded the national median rate of homebuilding. Under the Build Now Act, cities with the highest rates of growth would receive larger shares as funds are reallocated.

Allow metropolitan areas two years to start building homes before HUD determines their level of CDBG funding.

The bill would not apply to cities where the median home value is below the national median or cities that issued an emergency disaster declaration in the last year.

In his role on the Senate Banking Committee, Kennedy has championed the cause of making homeownership easier for families, raising the issue frequently during recent hearings:

In Jan. 2025, Kennedy questioned then-HUD Secretary nominee Scott Turner about the failures of previous affordable housing policies. During this hearing, he suggested an approach that would incentivize localities to allow more new home construction without affording excessive power to the federal government.

At a hearing one week later, Kennedy outlined a potential “carrot-and-stick” system that would spur new home construction while allowing local governments to determine their exact means of doing so.

In Feb. 2025, Kennedy questioned then-Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency nominee Bill Pulte on the consequences of Americans borrowing large amounts of money to buy homes, noting that “we’ve got a house of cards here.”

Full text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: Inter-civilizational dialogue among SCO countries highlights mutual trust

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

TIANJIN, July 24 — The Inter-Civilizational Dialogue among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Countries 2025 has been held in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, highlighting enhanced mutual understanding and trust.

Centered on the theme “Promoting the Global Civilization Initiative and Building a Beautiful Common Home of the SCO,” the event on Wednesday drew over 300 delegates from government departments, think tanks, and cultural, artistic, and educational sectors across 10 SCO countries.

Sohail Khan, deputy secretary-general of the SCO, said that people-to-people exchanges and civil diplomacy are important topics explicitly included in the organization’s founding documents, noting that this dialogue embodies the SCO’s commitment to providing Eurasian nations with a platform for mutual learning and respect.

Zainidin Kurmanov, vice-rector of the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan, said that against a backdrop of global turbulence, the Global Civilization Initiative’s principles — respecting civilizational diversity, championing shared human values, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening international exchanges — align closely with the “Shanghai Spirit,” and offer wisdom for addressing contemporary challenges through civilizational dialogue and are integral to building a community with a shared future for humanity.

Dmitry Novikov, first deputy chairman of the Russian State Duma Committee on International Affairs and deputy chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, expects to further practice new-model civilizational dialogue, promoting mutual learning, inspiration, and respect.

“As the SCO family continues to grow, we need to expand exchange platforms for media, think tanks, cultural circles, and youth communities. This will fully mobilize the enthusiasm and initiative of all sectors in contributing to SCO friendship initiatives, ensuring our bond endures across generations,” said Du Zhanyuan, president of China International Communications Group.

Parallel sessions focused on sustainable development, cultural heritage, and exchanges of diverse visual arts. The event also released a report titled “Building a Community with a Shared Digital Future: China’s Initiative and the Future of SCO,” and an initiative named “SCO Youth in Action: Tianjin Initiative for Upholding the Diversity of Civilizations.”

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: President Xi on China-EU relations

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

Editor’s note: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday met with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, calling for openness, cooperation and the proper managing of difference. With the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the 25th China-EU summit both taking place this year, China.org.cn presents a selection of President Xi’s key remarks on China-EU relations.

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MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: Cambodia, Thailand trade accusations

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

Cambodia and Thailand on Thursday traded accusations following the escalating situation along the border areas.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Thursday urged the United Nations Security Council to convene an urgent meeting to discuss the matter.

In a letter to Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, whose country assumed the rotating presidency of the Security Council for July, Hun Manet said that since early Thursday, Thai armed forces have launched attacks on Cambodian positions.

The attacks violated fundamental principles of international law, he said.

Hun Manet said Cambodia calls on Thailand to immediately cease all hostilities, withdraw its forces to its side of the border, and refrain from any further provocative actions which could escalate the situation.

On Thursday, Thailand’s foreign ministry said the Thai government called on Cambodia to take responsibility for the incidents, cease attacks against civilian and military targets, and stop all actions that violate Thailand’s sovereignty.

Otherwise, said the Thai foreign ministry in a statement, the Thai side is prepared to intensify self-defense measures in accordance with international law and relevant principles.

The Thai embassy in Cambodia has urged Thai nationals to leave Cambodia.

The situation escalated following skirmishes which began Thursday morning when Thai and Cambodian troops exchanged fire at a disputed area.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: China, EU leaders chart course for future cooperation amid global challenges

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

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who are in China for the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

As China and the European Union mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made new propositions on how the two sides can navigate a fast-changing and turbulent world through partnership, cooperation and multilateralism.

China-EU relations have come to another critical juncture in their history, Xi said on Thursday, calling on Chinese and European leaders to once again demonstrate vision and leadership, and to provide more stability and certainty for the world through sound, steady China-EU relations.

The Chinese leader made the remarks when meeting with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, both of whom are in Beijing to attend the 25th China-EU Summit.

For the future development of China-EU relations, Xi made three proposals: The two sides should uphold mutual respect and consolidate the positioning of China-EU relations as partnership; uphold openness and cooperation and properly manage differences; practice multilateralism and uphold international rules and order.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang co-chaired the summit with Costa and von der Leyen, with both sides pledging to promote cooperation on the economy, trade and investment.

After the summit, Li and von der Leyen attended the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium, at which some 60 business leaders were present.

UPHOLDING MUTUAL RESPECT

Xi said that China and the EU should uphold mutual respect and consolidate the positioning of China-EU relations as partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who are in China for the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

The current challenges facing the EU do not come from China, and there are no fundamental conflicts of interest or geopolitical contradictions between China and the EU, Xi said. The fundamentals and prevailing trend of China-EU relations featuring cooperation over competition and consensus over differences have remained constant.

China has regarded the EU as an important pole in a multipolar world, and consistently supported European integration and the strategic autonomy of the EU, he said, voicing hope that the EU will respect the path and system chosen by the Chinese people, respect China’s core interests and major concerns, and support its development and prosperity.

He called on both sides to deepen strategic communication, enhance understanding and mutual trust, and foster a correct perception of each other.

Echoing the Chinese leaders’ remarks, the EU side affirmed its commitment to deepening EU-China relations, managing differences in a constructive manner, and achieving more positive outcomes in bilateral cooperation that is balanced, reciprocal and mutually beneficial.

ADHERING TO OPENNESS, COOPERATION

China and the EU should uphold openness and cooperation, and properly manage differences and frictions, Xi said, adding that history and reality show that interdependency is not a risk, and convergent interests are not a threat.

He said that “reducing dependency” should not lead to reducing China-EU cooperation, and the bilateral economic and trade relationship, which is by nature complementary and mutually beneficial, can indeed achieve dynamic equilibrium through development.

China’s high-quality development and opening-up will provide new opportunities and potentials for China-EU cooperation, Xi noted.

It is hoped that the EU can remain open in trade and investment market, refrain from using restrictive economic and trade tools, and foster a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises investing and operating in the EU, he stressed.

China welcomes more European businesses to invest and pursue long-term operations in China, Premier Li said, calling on the EU to provide a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Europe.

Li said both sides can forge an “upgraded version” of the China-EU export control dialogue mechanism to ensure the stability of industrial and supply chains between China and Europe.

The EU side noted that the EU does not seek “decoupling and severing supply chains” and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Europe.

Feng Zhongping, director of the Institute of European Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that China-EU cooperation aligns with the fundamental interests of both sides, carries profound global significance, and will provide certainty and stability for the world.

PRACTICING MULTILATERALISM

Confronted with the critical choice between war and peace, competition and cooperation, or seclusion and openness, multilateralism and solidarity-based cooperation remain the only viable approach, Xi said.

He said that China and the EU should practice multilateralism, and uphold international rules and order.

Xi said China and the EU should jointly uphold the international rules and order established after World War II, advance a more just and equitable global governance system in keeping with the times, and work together to address global challenges such as climate change.

He said China stands ready to strengthen coordination with the EU to ensure the success of this year’s UN Climate Change Conference in Belem (COP30), and contribute more to global climate response and green transition.

The EU leaders called on the two sides, faced with a turbulent and uncertain world, to uphold multilateralism, safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, address global challenges such as climate change, facilitate resolutions to regional hotspot issues, and safeguard world peace and stability.

On the same day, leaders of China and the EU issued a joint statement on climate change, in which they recognized that strengthening China-EU cooperation on the issue will impact the well-being of people on both sides, and is of great and special significance to upholding multilateralism and advancing global climate governance.

Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China, said that China-EU relations go beyond mere bilateral ties and are of great importance to safeguarding international law and order, and to upholding the international system with the UN at its core.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Hip hip hooray – government finally updates antiquated funding formula – Genaro

Source: General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)

25 July 2025 – General practice owners are delighted that the Government is modernising the way it funds community doctors to better reflect the needs of patients.

Cabinet has broadened the range of factors which influence funding from just age and sex, to include deprivation, multi-morbidity, and rurality.

“The capitation system, which determines how general practices are funded, hasn’t been meaningfully updated since it was established in 2002,” says Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of the General Practice Owners Association (GenPro).

“Despite numerous reviews and the widely supported recommendations of the 2022 Sapere report, little progress had been made. This lack of action by successive governments perpetuates inequities and undermines the sustainability of primary care.”

“GenPro has been calling for a funding review for years, so hats off to Health Minister Simeon Brown for finally getting it done and implemented from July next year.

“In particular we support the addition of funding criteria such as deprivation – a marker of high health needs – and rurality, as rural areas have less access to health services under the current formula. GenPro also supports regular updates of capitation every five years, starting in 2028.

“GenPro also welcomes Minister Brown’s announcement of increased funding to support general practitioners in training, and putting more structure around feedback from the sector. We invite him to work with GenPro to design a health target so we can see patients as soon as we can.

“GenPro is also pleased with the announcement of a group to advise the minister on primary care. We believe that decisions made by successive ministers have suffered from poor advice from the Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand leading to the current workforce and funding crisis affecting General Practice. Better advice will be essential to a high performing system in the future.

“These are all positive signs and, along with recent funding increases announced in the Budget, indicate improvements that will make a real difference for patients.”

GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit www.genpro.org.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – PM must act to end tobacco industry interference in his Government – Health Coalition

Source: Health Coalition Aotearoa

Health Coalition Aotearoa is calling on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to show leadership and strip NZ First of the tobacco and vaping portfolio, following damning revelations of collusion between NZ First and tobacco giant Philip Morris.

A detailed RNZ investigation uncovered documents showing Philip Morris provided NZ First with a draft piece of regulation which the Deputy Prime Minister at the time Winston Peters supported.

Winston Peters was described by JUUL representatives as “industry friendly and highly geared towards commercial interests.” NZ First reportedly assured Philip Morris they would “put that draft into the policy mix.”

The World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which New Zealand signed in 2005, explicitly warns of the “irreconcilable conflict” between the goals of public health and the interests of the tobacco industry. Under this treaty, governments must protect health policy from tobacco industry interference.

“By allowing tobacco industry influence, this Government is breaching its obligations under the World Health Organization convention, says Professor Chris Bullen, Health Coalition Aotearoa tobacco spokesperson and University of Auckland professor.

“These documents confirm what many have long feared: tobacco companies are influencing health policy in Aotearoa. The Prime Minister must demonstrate he expects the highest standards of integrity from his Ministers and reallocate the tobacco and vaping portfolio,” says Professor Bullen.

Tobacco companies’ intensive and covert lobbying comes as no surprise. However, evidence NZ First MPs have been complicit in these arrangements will shock the public, who expect higher standards from politicians.

The evidence in the media today gives an explicit example of how officials are exposed to communications, meetings and relationships with a powerful industry on policy that is supposed to be protecting public health. And yet another example of this Government favouring commercial interests over people’s lives and health.

Winston Peters told reporters yesterday “I’ve always been industry friendly”. Matching rhetoric of NZ First Minister Shane Jones last year confirmed Philip Morris External Relations Manager Api Dawson was involved in ‘soundings’ about the party’s tobacco policy.

Professor Bullen says the revelations offer Luxon a clear opportunity to put New Zealanders’ health ahead of dirty politics.

“This is a test of leadership. He must reassign the tobacco and vaping portfolio to someone with no ties to the industry. New Zealanders expect transparency and a Government that acts with integrity.

“The Government has already damaged Aotearoa New Zealand’s international standing by repealing popular, widely acclaimed smokefree measures – a move that has seen a stall in the decline of smoking prevalence, while inequities persist.

“The RNZ revelations show serious lack of judgement by this Government. It must end now. We are spending billions treating preventable diseases caused by smoking, while politicians allow the industry to keep selling the products that cause these harms. It’s reckless and it’s wrong,” says Professor Bullen.

Health Coalition Aotearoa is calling for:

Immediate reassignment of the tobacco and vaping portfolio from NZ First to a politician free of any ties to the industry, and who will prioritise New Zealanders’ health over corporate profits.
The Ministry of Health to exclude the nicotine industry from policy processes, interact only when necessary, and document all interactions in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, to which Aotearoa is a Party.
Stronger rules on lobbying and conflicts of interest across government. Health Coalition Aotearoa is running a campaign to mitigate the harmful impact of industry involvement in public health policy.
The Government to prioritise the advice and expertise of those working to reduce tobacco and nicotine harm when changing tobacco policies.

“All the current Government’s coalition parties have links to the tobacco industry. That must end,” said Professor Bullen. “The Prime Minister has a choice: run a government based on integrity or stoop to a new level of dirty politics. He must act now.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Launches Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Watch8 Series Globally Starting Today

Source: Samsung

Samsung Electronics today announced the global availability of its latest foldable smartphones, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7, as well as its new Galaxy Watch8 series.

Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7: Ultra-Thin and Light With Intuitive Intelligence
Refined by years of breakthrough engineering and elevated with advanced intelligence, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 represent the next leap in smartphone innovation. Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are Samsung’s thinnest, lightest and most advanced Z series devices yet. Powered by cutting-edge performance and seamlessly integrated Galaxy AI,1 they are intelligent, adaptive companions that anticipate and respond to user needs in real time. With expansive, flexible displays, pro-grade cameras and context-aware intelligence, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 open up new realms of ultra experience with productivity, creativity and connection.

Galaxy Z Fold7 brings Galaxy advancements together and broadens their scope, delivering an ultra-level experience in the thinnest, lightest and most advanced Z series yet. It offers immersive, high-octane performance on an expansive screen, empowering users to game, stream, connect and create all at once. Galaxy’s true AI companion experience has also been optimized for the foldable format, enabling fluid interactions across more apps and the larger screen. And with camera and screen sharing with Gemini Live,2 users can talk naturally to Gemini about what they’re viewing. They can simply share a picture of a local delicacy while they’re exploring a new city and ask Gemini whether there is a nearby restaurant where they can try it. Plus, Galaxy Z Fold7’s ultra-grade 200 MP high-resolution camera gives the freedom to shoot at flexible angles, putting professional-quality content creation at users’ fingertips. For example, convenient editing features like Generative Edit3 now automatically detect passersby in the background of photos and proactively recommend what to remove, eliminating the need to make manual selections and edits. Apart from these features, Galaxy Z Fold7 brings familiarity and durability in a head-turning new design that unfolds into something extraordinary.

As for Galaxy Z Flip7, it distills flagship power, intelligence and personality into a compact and iconic form. With its edge-to-edge FlexWindow, users can express themselves, access key features at a glance and stay connected — all without opening the device. Built for dynamic lifestyles, Galaxy Z Flip7 transforms the way users capture and share content, from flawless selfies to cinematic video, all with the agility and creativity only Flip devices can offer. Now Bar4 delivers helpful information right on Galaxy Z Flip7’s FlexWindow to help users stay in control of their day, such as what song is playing, workout progress and even rideshare ETAs at a glance. Gemini Live also allows users to share what they see through their camera and chat with Gemini in real time directly on FlexWindow. So, they can ask for travel tips while road tripping with their dog or outfit suggestions based on the day’s weather. Users can also simply share the camera in Flex Mode and converse with Gemini hands-free. Galaxy Z Flip7’s FlexCam makes it easier than ever to capture the perfect selfie. Real-time filters on the FlexWindow instantly enhance users FlexCam selfies, so that they can be ready to post or share without the need for any extra editing. And with fun new features like Portrait Studio5 for pets, users can instantly transform any snapped or downloaded pet photo into a work of art. They can choose from styles that resemble artistic paintings, 3D cartoons, fisheye lens photos or professional-quality portraits and create frame-worthy masterpieces with one quick tap.

Years of breakthrough engineering have led foldables to become flexible canvases for the new AI experience. As a new class of smartphones designed to fit in with and elevate user lives, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 represent this achievement. Familiar yet transformative, they blend power, portability, style and substance, whether users seek a revolutionary, ultra-level experience or an AI powerhouse that fits in their pocket. As form factors evolve to look and think differently, this generation of foldables represents the next leap in smartphone innovation.

Galaxy Watch8 Series: Ultra-Comfort Meets Real-Time Health Motivation
Completing the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Watch8 series — including Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic — brings the same spirit of re-engineering found in the new phones to the wrist. Galaxy Watch8 features advanced sensor technology and creates an intuitive AI-powered experience to help users fulfill a healthier, more connected life, while its ultra-thin cushion design and Dynamic Lug system flex naturally for all-day comfort and more precise sensor contact. Leveraging Samsung’s BioActive Sensor for continuous health tracking, the watches deliver real-time insights and instant rewards or alerts across sleep, stress, nutrition and activity, turning healthy intentions into immediate, motivating feedback.6 Plus, for the first time in a smartwatch, Galaxy Watch8 has introduced the Antioxidant Index,7 enabling users to measure carotenoid levels in just five seconds and make informed lifestyle choices for healthy aging.

Hands-On With the Galaxy Z Series and the Watch8 Series at Galaxy Experience Spaces
After Unpacked, Samsung opened its Galaxy Experience Spaces in major cities including Dubai, London, New York, Paris and Seoul. Designed to offer consumers an early, hands-on experience of the newest Galaxy devices, these spaces featured interactive zones that highlighted the devices’ design, performance and Galaxy AI features. Samsung also partnered with local communities including running, photography and skateboarding groups to host various sessions, teaching visitors how they can get the most out of their new devices.

In addition, Samsung launched a new Experience Store locator feature on Samsung.com, making it easier for users to find nearby stores and try the newest devices in person.

Availability
Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic will be available for purchase at Samsung.com and in stores across 49 markets starting July 25, before being made available in over 110 markets worldwide. Galaxy Z Fold7 is offered in Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, Jetblack8 and an online-exclusive Mint.9 Galaxy Z Flip7 comes in Jetblack, Blue Shadow, Coralred10 and an online-exclusive Mint.11 Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, which brings the foldable experience to a wider audience, is available in Black or White.

So far, Blue Shadow has emerged as the most popular color globally for both Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, accounting for nearly 40% of pre-orders for both devices.

Galaxy Watch8 is available in two sizes — 44 mm and 40 mm — and comes in Graphite or Silver. Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes in 46 mm with Black or White options, while the new Galaxy Watch Ultra is offered in four titanium finishes, including the new Titanium Blue.

For greater peace of mind, Samsung Care+12 offers comprehensive coverage for accidental damage, repairs and replacements. Plus, for users who love having the latest technology, Samsung is introducing the New Galaxy Club.

Users can get expanded access to Google AI Pro and 2 TB of cloud storage for 6 months at no cost with Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE.

For more information about the Galaxy Z series and Galaxy Watch8 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, SamsungMobilePress.com and Samsung.com.

1 Samsung Account login may be required to use certain AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model and phone carrier. Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties. Galaxy AI service may be limited for minors in certain regions with age restrictions over AI usage.
2 Gemini Live feature requires internet connection and Google Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model. Features may differ depending on subscription and results may vary. Compatible with certain features and certain accounts. Only available to users 18 years or older. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.
3 Generative Edit feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit may result in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
4 Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login.
5 Portrait Studio feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Portrait Studio results in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
6 Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. The result is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice.
7 Antioxidant index available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (v6.30 or above). Samsung account login required. To measure, place the center of your finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Anti-oxidant index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to inaccurate results. Antioxidant index is for fitness and wellness only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult a medical professional for advice if you’re concerned about your antioxidant level. This is a Labs feature that you can preview before its official launch. If you don’t want to use this experimental feature, you can turn it off in Samsung Health settings.
8 Color availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier.
9 Online exclusive colors only available on Samsung.com.
10 Color availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier.
11 Online exclusive colors only available on Samsung.com.
12 Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefit, registration may be required. For detailed Samsung Care+ information, please visit https://www.samsung.com/samsung-care-plus/.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Case Opposes Foreign Affairs Funding Measure That Weakens National Security By Slashing Critical Foreign Assistance Efforts

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted in Committee against the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriations bill that would our nation’s foreign affairs programs and agencies by 22%

This measure funds (or should fund) U.S. foreign policy efforts, including the Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), U.S. contributions to the United Nations and its agencies and more.

The bill historically provides for international diplomatic presence and outreach as well as foreign assistance in public health, basic education, educational and cultural exchanges, climate change and more. The bill’s proposed FY 2026 discretionary funding level is $46.2 billion. This is a decrease of $13 billion (22 percent) from the FY 2025 enacted level.

“While this measure did fund many critical Hawai‘i and Indo-Pacific priorities I requested, I had to vote against it because on balance it weakens our global leadership when the world most needs our continued full engagement,” said Case.

Case spoke in Committee in opposition to the measure, saying it would “split our alliances, partnerships and friendships and cast our country as an unreliable partner”, allowing the People’s Republic of China to fill voids left by U.S. disengagement. His remarks are here.

The bill continues the Trump administration’s gutting of U.S. foreign assistance across a broad array of efforts, including:

· Codifying the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development.

· Cutting international humanitarian aid by 42% in activities previously funded under International Disaster Assistance and Migration and Refugee Affairs.

· Cutting U.S. bilateral economic assistance by 21% in activities previously funded under Development Assistance, Economic Support Fund and other accounts.

· Creating a $1.7 billion transactional slush fund for the Trump administration called the “America First Opportunity Fund” with no effective congressional oversight.

However, Case did welcome support in the bill for various of his requests related to Hawai‘i and the Indo-Pacific, especially $16.7 million for the East-West Center in Honolulu.

“As we continue to focus on the growing influence of the PRC in the Indo-Pacific, our national security interests must also include diplomatic engagement and assistance to promote peace and diplomacy in the region,” said Case. “Continued funding for our East-West Center and other world-leading institutions in Hawai‘i supports our country’s standing in an area widely seen as the most dynamic and critical on earth.”

“For all seven of my years on Appropriations, I have ranked full funding for the Center at the top of my annual requests to my committee because I believe not only in the Center’s invaluable work but in what it represents for Hawaii’s central role in the Asia-Pacific and in the broader benefits that bring high-quality … jobs to our overall economy,” he said.

“Though we still have a long way to go this appropriations year, I’m grateful that my House colleagues have again favorably considered my request, especially when the President’s budget proposed zero funding for the Center.”

Other bill provisions requested by Case include:

· $1.8 billion for the implementation of the Indo-Pacific Strategy, which promotes peace, prosperity and democracy in the region.

· $175 million for the Pacific Islands region, the same as FY 2025 enacted levels.

· $3 million for the Advancing Port Enhancement and Customs Security program in the Pacific Islands.

· Funding for Pacific Islands exchange programs, with a focus on partnering with universities in Pacific locations.

· Funding for small grants programs to assist local communities across the Pacific Islands.

· Funding for a Flexible Microfinance Facility for the Pacific Islands, launched by the Development Finance Corporation with the Department of State.

· Report language supporting funding for free and open media in the Pacific.

· Funding for trade capacity-building activities in the Pacific Islands.

· Report language supporting the Peace Corps’ expansion in the Pacific.

· Funding for a demand-driven initiative to diversify trade opportunities in the Pacific Islands.

· Language requiring a report on ways to strengthen U.S. trade and investment with the Pacific Islands.

· Funding for unexploded ordinance removal in the Pacific Islands, including Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

· Language requiring a strategy for faith-based engagement for assistance in the Pacific Islands.

The bill further includes funding for several foreign policy programs supported by Case, although some at unacceptably low levels. Among them are:

· $411 million for the Peace Corps, a decrease of $20 million from FY 2025.

· $411 million for peacekeeping operations, the same as FY 2025.

· $562.3 million to support international peacekeeping activities, a decrease of $838 million.

· $701 million for educational and cultural exchange programs, which include the Fulbright programs, a decrease of more than $40 million.

· $310 million for contributions to international organizations, a decrease of $1.2 billion.

· $1.5 billion for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, a decrease of $200 million.

· $915 million for maternal and child health programs.

A summary of the bill is available here.

This is the ninth of twelve separate bills developed and approved by the Appropriations Committee that would fund the federal government at some $1.6 trillion for FY 2026 commencing October 1^st of this year. The bill now moves on to the full House of Representatives for its consideration.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: Consultation on reforms to non-compete clauses to boost wages and productivity

Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

The Government is taking the next step in reforming non‑compete clauses that are holding back Australian workers from switching to better, higher‑paying jobs.

Today we are releasing a consultation paper to gather insights and feedback from workers, business and the broader community about how we ban non‑compete clauses to boost productivity and wages across the Australian economy.

Reforming non‑compete clauses is about encouraging aspiration, unlocking opportunity, lifting wages for working people, and making Australia’s economy more dynamic and competitive.

Right now, more than three million Australian workers are covered by these clauses, including childcare workers, construction workers, disability support workers and hairdressers.

Workers should not be handcuffed to their current job when there are better opportunities available for them and that’s what these reforms address.

Research suggests a ban on non‑competes could lift the wages of affected workers by up to four per cent, or about $2,500 per year for a worker on median wages.

Productivity Commission modelling suggests the changes could improve productivity and add $5 billion or 0.2 per cent to GDP annually, as well as reduce inflation.

The Government committed to consult on policy details to support these reforms and to seek views on whether further changes are required to other worker restraints and what these changes could look like.

The consultation paper also seeks views on complementary reforms to close loopholes in Australia’s competition laws that allow businesses to make anti‑competitive agreements that cap workers’ wages or block staff from being hired by competitors.

This important step is just one part of the government’s broad and ambitious competition agenda, including progressing a national licensing scheme for electrical trades people.

Both changes form part of a second tranche of reforms under the Government’s revitalised National Competition Policy.

They are part of the Albanese Government’s economic plan to help workers earn more and keep more of what they earn, and build a stronger and more productive economy.

The feedback we receive from this consultation will be used to inform legislation for these important reforms.

Submissions can be made online on the Treasury consultation hub until 5 September 2025.

MIL OSI News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Clayton

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in St. Louis County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and wildfires occurring March 14–15 and also for those affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring May 16.

Beginning Friday, July 25, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Clayton to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Disaster Loan Outreach Center

Mid-County Branch Library

7821 Maryland Ave.

Clayton, MO 63105

Opens at 9:00 a.m., Friday, July 25

Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Fridays – Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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

THE INDEPENDENT CITY OF ST. LOUIS

Business Recovery Center

St. Louis Community College

Harrison Education Center

3140 Cass Ave., Rm. #104

St. Louis, MO 63106

Mondays – Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Disaster Loan Outreach Center

St. Louis County Library

Florissant Vallet Branch

Quiet Room

195 S. New Florissant Rd.

Florissant, MO 63031

Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Fridays – Saturdays, 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

For SBA declaration MO 21094 for the March storms, interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.

For SBA declaration MO 21129 for the May storms, interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.

Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

Although the deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the March storms has passed, there is a grace period of 60 days the SBA will accept applications beyond the July 22 deadline. The grace period will end on Sept. 20, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the May storms is Aug. 11, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 9, 2026.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Available to New Mexico Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Severe Storms, Flooding and Landslides

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In response to a Presidential disaster declaration issued July 22, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to New Mexico small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, flooding and landslides beginning June 23.

The disaster declaration covers the New Mexico county of Lincoln which is eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Small businesses and PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Chaves, De Baca, Guadalupe, Otero, Sierra, Socorro and Torrance.

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

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

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

SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs including faith based impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

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

“One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

Interest rates can be as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

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

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ratepayers win in collaboration over Local Water

Source: New Zealand Government

Hamilton City and Waikato District Councils have delivered the first multi council water services delivery plan, an achievement that will be welcomed by all ratepayers, says Local Government Minister Simon Watts.

“We have been very clear that local government needs to focus on core business and I am delighted that these two councils are the first to embrace the benefits to ratepayers of collaboration under Local Water Done Well.

“Not only does this mean safe and reliable drinking and wastewater, it means cost increases necessary to fund vital infrastructure are more affordable for ratepayers.

“This collaboration means 280,000 New Zealanders served by the combined local organisation will be assured of the ongoing financial sustainability of their water services at affordable cost.

“Investing in infrastructure is critical for our communities’ success and critical for growth. This plan significantly boosts investment in Hamilton and Waikato District’s water services infrastructure over the next decade, supporting new housing, businesses and improved service quality.

“The cost of delivering water services has been a driver of higher rates across the country. By getting water services on a stable footing and making critical investment now, councils keep rate increases down.”

This increased investment is supported by better access to finance from the Local Government Funding Agency.

“Mayors Paula Southgate of Hamilton and Jacqui Church of Waikato District have done a great job in getting this result and I congratulate them on working in the best interests of their respective ratepayers to establish this new joint water services organization,” Mr Watts says.

“I am also pleased that both councils are willing to consider forming a larger regional model with other Waikato councils over time.

“I look forward to other councils following the example of Waikato and Hamilton in delivering excellent locally-directed services that benefit their communities.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: Tax Time 2025 update – 22 July

Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

Welcome and governance

The ATO Co-chair welcomed members and ATO attendees to the Tax Practitioner Stewardship Group (TPSG) Tax Time 2025 meeting.

ATO Updates

Frontline Services

We confirmed 2.8 million individual lodgments have been received. This is a 4% decrease from the same time last year. Lodgment numbers for self-preparers have decreased 4% and agent lodged returns are down 7% compared to this time last year. We reminded members these numbers are expected to level out as tax time progresses.

We’ve received on average 22,000 calls from agents each week, totalling 66,000 this tax time. This is 11% down from this time last year.

There were 15,000 returns for accounts with compromised indicators that were tax agent lodged without needing to call the ATO as part of the new process.

In response to a member query from the TPSG Tax Time 15 July meeting around the frequency of PAYGI correspondence to tax agents (which was a courtesy notification of what was sent to the client), we confirmed that notifications default to the existing preference of their client. If a tax agent would like to change the notifications for their client new to PAYGI, they can update the Communication preferences via Online Services for Agents at the client level.

IT system updates & maintenance

All Tax Time systems are currently operating well and reporting green across the board.

We recently experienced two issues causing a slight degradation to services.

One issue was reported on the evening of Sunday 20 July between 6 pm and 7 pm AEST impacting all online services. Users may have experienced slowness or possible error pages. This issue was resolved shortly after it was reported.

The second issue was reported on Monday 21 July. It related to our internal case management system, where the ability to provide advice over the phone may have been limited due to availability of internal systems used by call centre staff. This issue has also since been resolved and all systems are operating as intended.

ATO Digital services

We noted that this week there is nothing to report.

In response to a member query from the TPSG Tax Time 15 July meeting around reports of tax agents receiving correspondence for incorrect clients through Practice Mail in OSfA, we provided the following information:

Tax agents have been receiving emails which are part of a Tax Time campaign reminding people to use their myID if they log into ATO Online services. This is part of an online access strength fraud prevention initiative where individuals who create a digital identity and use it to log into ATO Online Services ‘lock in’ the strength of their digital identity so that a fraudster can’t then go in and create a lower-level credential with stolen identity information and access their ATO account.

Under the Digital Identity legislation, digital identity providers like myID are only able to disclose information about the user of a digital identity to government services under specific circumstances. Tax Time messaging doesn’t fall under those circumstances, so we are unable to access the email address the myID owner used when they signed up for their myID. We must rely on the information that it has on the client register for mail campaigns, and in some cases, client’s contact information, including their nominated email address, will be that of their agent.

This feedback has been passed onto the relevant area responsible for the campaign. They have been asked to include the intended recipient’s surname wherever possible.

ATO Communications

A key focus for ATO communications is the ATO app with a media release to be issued on Thursday 17 July. It will remind taxpayers to download the ATO app to protect against scammers and fraudsters. The ATO highlighted that the block functionality of the app is having significant outcomes preventing fraud attempts.

As most pre-filled data is now available, our upcoming media release and messaging is focused around ‘the go-ahead’ campaign for taxpayers and tax agents to start lodging their tax returns.

We continue to talk about the importance of getting work-related expenses right.

We are also continuing to develop content for diverse and First Nations communities, which outlines the support options available for these taxpayers, including Tax Help and Tax Clinic services.

Member comments

A member queried whether ATO communications relating to pre-fill includes references to engaging with a registered tax agent. We confirmed that the planned media release does refer to the use of a registered tax agent.

Member Insights and Experience

Member comments

Members are interested in receiving insights into employer obligations Single Touch Payroll (STP) finalisations and Taxable Payments Annual Reporting (TPAR), as well as any notable trends in common errors. We confirmed that they intend to share these insights at future meetings.

A member raised a query around whether it is possible for the ATO to include the number of days a taxpayer has had hospital cover in prefill to help taxpayers understand their liability to Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS). We confirmed they will investigate the feasibility for next year’s Tax Time.

Useful links

MIL OSI News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Transportation and Housing Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

July 24, 2025

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 27-1, provides $400 million in defense funding and $99.8 billion in nondefense funding.

“Strengthening local economies throughout Maine starts with prioritizing and improving our infrastructure and transportation network. This legislation would build on previous investments, providing funding to enhance safety, move people and products more safely and efficiently, and create jobs across the state. It would also maintain existing rental assistance for more than 4.6 million households throughout the United States and invest in programs aimed at tackling homelessness,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.

Bill Highlights:

Local Projects: Nearly $135 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine. This includes more than $46 million for six MaineDOT projects.

Department of Transportation:

Bridge Repair and Rehabilitation Funding: $350 million for a competitive rural bridge rehabilitation and replacement program, of which Maine is guaranteed to receive at least $32.5 million and is eligible for up to $55 million.
BUILD Grants: $250 million for BUILD grants, a program championed by Senator Collins to provide federal assistance for vital transportation projects across the country. Maine has received more than $393 million since the program, previously known as TIGER and RAISE, was established in 2009.

Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grants: $100 million for discretionary CRISI grants to support projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

State Maritime Academies (SMAs): $143 million for SMA Operations, which includes $115 for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessels program and associated SMA shore-side infrastructure improvements, benefitting Maine Maritime Academy.

Ports and Shipyards: $75 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program to support improvements to ports and $30 million for the Small Shipyard Grant program to support capital improvements and workforce training in shipbuilding, ship repair, and associated industries. Maine shipyards that have benefitted from the Small Shipyards Grant program include Rockland Marine Corporation, Washburn & Doughty, and Front Street Shipyard.

Aviation Improvement Program (AIP): $4 billion, which includes $25 million in discretionary supplemental AIP funding, which has benefited airports in Bangor, Presque Isle, Old Town, and Wiscasset in prior years. This also includes $25 million for a new discretionary rural airport grant program that targets those airports who have typically received a smaller amount of entitlement money based on their annual AIP formula amounts. Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport would be eligible to receive funds from this new rural airport program.
Essential Air Service (EAS): $513.6 million to support all existing EAS communities, including Augusta, Hancock County-Bar Harbor, Presque Isle, and Rockland.

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):

Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): $3.1 billion for the CDBG program, which helps state and local governments promote economic development and job creation.
HOME Investment Partnerships Program: $1.25 billion for the HOME program, which provides critical funding for the development of new affordable housing.

Youth Homelessness: $107 million for the Youth Homelessness Demonstration program and $25 million for Family Unification Program (FUP) vouchers for youth exiting foster care and at risk of homelessness.

Aging-in-Place Home Modifications for Seniors: $30 million for home modification grants to enable low-income seniors to “age in place” and remain in their own homes. The bill addresses several barriers to greater participation, including streamlining environmental reviews, adjusting the cost per property cap to account for increased labor and materials costs, and encouraging rather than requiring the use of occupational therapists.

Housing for the Elderly: $972 million for the Housing for the Elderly (Section 202) program, of which $122 million is for the development of new HUD-assisted senior housing properties.

Housing During Substance Abuse Recovery: $30 million for states to provide individuals in recovery with stable, temporary housing. This includes more than $1 million for transitional housing support for addiction recovery programs in Maine.
Lead Hazard Reduction Grants: $295.6 million to remediate lead-based paint hazards, helping communities protect children from the harmful effects of lead-based paint poisoning in homes.

This funding and language advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Warnock Leads Bipartisan Push to Address Physician Workforce Shortage

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Senator Reverend Warnock introduced the bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 with Senator Boozman to increase the number of physicians in communities across the country

The legislation would increase the number of Medicare funded residency positions by expanding the number of available slots

143 counties in Georgia are designated as a “Health Professional Shortage Area” by the federal government. 10 Georgia counties had no physicians in 2024

Over one third of practicing Georgia physicians said they completed their residency in Georgia, showing that increasing residency slots in Georgia will increase the number of doctors that practice in the state

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and John Boozman (R-AR) introduced the bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025. The legislation would help address the nation’s doctor shortage by increasing the number of Medicare funded residency positions by 14,000 over seven years. The legislation would also make progress toward providing the necessary primary care and specialty physicians necessary to meet the country’s workforce needs.

“Our state faces a critical shortage of primary care and specialty physicians, preventing many Georgians from accessing health care services in their community,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Where you live shouldn’t determine the type of medical care you receive, and I will not stop working to help our hospitals hire and retain the health care workforce that Georgians deserve.”

“There is an urgent, demonstrated need to strengthen our health care system by combating the alarming shortage of providers, particularly in rural areas,” said Senator Boozman. “Lifting the outdated cap on residency positions supported by Medicare can expand the supply of physicians while helping ensure access to quality care and treatment in more communities nationwide. I am proud to work in a bipartisan way on this important medical workforce solution that also supports better health outcomes.”

The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 will address the United States’ impending physician shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036. As a large portion of the physician workforce nears traditional retirement age, there is a critical need to educate and train more physicians to ensure there are enough medical professionals to care for patients across all communities. The legislation prioritizes increasing the number of graduate medical education (GME) positions in states with hospitals in rural and underserved areas, hospitals training physicians in excess of their cap, hospitals affiliated with a historically Black medical school, new or expanding medical schools, and hospitals that serve areas designated as health professional shortage areas.

As a lifelong advocate for public health, Senator Warnock has advocated tirelessly for greater investment in Geogia’s health care workforce. In 2022, Senator Warnock helped secure federal funding for GA-STRONG, a proposal that provides funds to teaching hospitals across Georgia to help hire, train, and retain more health care workers. In 2023, Senator Warnock secured $500,000 for Emory University’s Nursing Program through annual appropriations process. Most recently, Senator Warnock published a report, “Healthy People, Healthy Economy” that outlines the risk of placing bureaucratic red tape between working people and their healthcare.

The legislation is supported by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA). A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representatives Terri Sewell (D-AL-07) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

Read the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 HERE

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: Xu Huiyan shines at Aquatics Worlds, eyes Olympic future

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

At just 19 years old, Xu Huiyan has already emerged as one of China’s brightest stars in artistic swimming.

At the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, she delivered a standout performance, earning three gold medals and one silver – including China’s first-ever world title in the women’s solo technical event.

Ahead of the championships, Xu’s momentum had sparked speculation from World Aquatics about how many golds she might claim in Singapore. The answer, so far, is remarkable.

Xu Huiyan in action during the women’s solo technical preliminary at the 2025 World Aquatic Championships. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

Xu has competed in nine events over seven days, including preliminary rounds – a grueling schedule by any standard. Despite the demanding timeline, she continued to contribute to her team while excelling individually.

She helped China capture two gold medals in team events and also added a silver in the women’s solo free. On Thursday morning, she competed in the team acrobatic preliminaries, helping China secure the top spot heading into the final.

Reflecting on her solo technical gold, Xu said: “It feels pretty emotional, because something I hoped for but hadn’t dared to think about before is now a reality before me.”

Still, she sees room to improve. “In the solo free event, there are still things I can improve on, whether it’s in terms of completion or connectivity.”

Xu said competing in team events actually enhances her solo performances.

“Doing the team event helped me feel freer, move more freely,” she explained. “The depth of the field in the team event isn’t that much different from the solo event, so doing that did help.”

However, head coach Zhang Xiaohuan noted that some compromises were made to prioritize team success.

“In fact, the preparation and training for the solo events were geared toward supporting the team events,” Zhang said. “Sacrifices were made in the solo competitions. Coach Tu Jun and Xu worked very well together, utilizing their spare time for solo training.”

Even on days with back-to-back finals, Xu delivered high-caliber performances. Zhang praised her leadership and dedication.

“She takes the initiative on everything – from the music selection to the choreography and artistic impression… she does all of that,” Zhang said. “I’m very glad we’ve found an excellent swimmer to help the Chinese team.”

Xu’s rise has been rapid. She debuted at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha, earning bronze in the solo technical and placing fourth in the solo free. Two months later, she claimed three golds at the Artistic Swimming World Cup in Beijing, sweeping both solo events and the team technical.

Her success continued at the World Aquatics Artistic Swimming Junior Championships in Peru last August, where she won gold in the solo technical, team free, and team technical events.

In 2025, her winning streak showed no signs of slowing. She secured individual titles at the World Cup in Canada in May, and then at the Super Final in Xi’an in June, she took home five gold medals from six events.

“The past year has been a grueling one in training for me. It’s been a lot of growth,” Xu said.

“I needed to work on my artistic impression – that was something I was lacking last year. My growth is completely linked to my team and my coaches. I get a lot of support from so many people who work behind the scenes.”

“Competing in more events also means I got more opportunities to test myself,” she added.

Coach Zhang highlighted the magnitude of her progress.

“As a young athlete, Xu went from a bronze and a fourth place in Doha to the achievements she’s already had here in Singapore – all within just a year,” Zhang said. “She is only 19 years old and has already achieved a breakthrough here, doing something we’ve never achieved before. She’s already made one of our dreams come true.”

Looking ahead, Zhang sees even greater potential.

“As one of China’s top artistic swimmers, Xu can still elevate her performance – particularly in achieving more fluid extensions and refining the delicate precision of her leg movements. She has the potential to be even better.”

For Xu, there’s still much to strive for. This is only her second World Championships, and she has her sights set on the Olympic Games.

“I still need to work harder on my path of growth,” she said.

Xu will compete in her 10th and final event of the competition – the team acrobatic final – on Friday.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu

By Ezra Toara in Port Vila

Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”.

The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change.

The ruling marks a major shift in the global push for climate justice.

Vanuatu — one of the nations behind the campaign — has pledged to take the decision back to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to seek a resolution supporting its full implementation.

Climate Change Minister Regenvanu said in a statement: “We now have a common foundation based on the rule of law, releasing us from the limitations of individual nations’ political interests that have dominated climate action.

“This moment will drive stronger action and accountability to protect our planet and peoples.”

The ICJ confirmed that state responsibilities extend beyond voluntary commitments under the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.

It ruled that customary international law also requires states to prevent environmental and transboundary harm, protect human rights, and cooperate to address climate change impacts.

Duties apply to all states
These duties apply to all states, whether or not they have ratified specific climate treaties.

Violations of these obligations carry legal consequences. The ICJ clarified that climate damage can be scientifically traced to specific polluter states whose actions or inaction cause harm.

As a result, those states could be required to stop harmful activities, regulate private sector emissions, end fossil fuel subsidies, and provide reparations to affected states and individuals.

“The implementation of this decision will set a new status quo and the structural change required to give our current and future generations hope for a healthy planet and sustainable future,” Minister Regenvanu added.

He said high-emitting nations, especially those with a history of emissions, must be held accountable.

Despite continued fossil fuel expansion and weakening global ambition — compounded by the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement — Regenvanu said the ICJ ruling was a powerful tool for campaigners, lawyers, and governments.

“Vanuatu is proud and honoured to have spearheaded this initiative,” he said.

‘Powerful testament’
“The number of states and civil society actors that have joined this cause is a powerful testament to the leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and youth activists.”

The court’s decision follows a resolution adopted by consensus at the UNGA on 29 March 2023. That campaign was initiated by the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change and backed by the Vanuatu government, calling for greater accountability from high-emitting countries.

The ruling will now be taken to the UNGA in September and is expected to be a central topic at COP30 in Brazil this November.

Vanuatu has committed to working with other nations to turn this legal outcome into coordinated action through diplomacy, policy, litigation, and international cooperation.

“This is just the beginning,” Regenvanu said. “Success will depend on what happens next. We look forward to working with global partners to ensure this becomes a true turning point for climate justice.”

Republished from the Vanuatu Daily Post with permission.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivers its historic climate ruling in The Hague on Tuesday. Image: VDP

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds the Major Economic Benefits for South Carolinians from the One Big Beautiful Bill

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released a statement on the impact of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, on South Carolinians.

“The One Big Beautiful Bill is a game-changer for South Carolina families and businesses,” said Sen. Scott. “This historic legislation delivers real tax relief to hardworking South Carolinians while protecting jobs and strengthening our state’s manufacturing base. This unified government has once again proven our commitment to putting America First and making sure that our economy works for everyone so that every American has the opportunity to succeed.”

Background:

Analysis by the Council of Economic Advisers shows that the One Big Beautiful Bill will deliver substantial economic benefits to South Carolina, protecting nearly 97,000 jobs and increasing wages by $3,300 to $6,000 over the next four years.

The comprehensive legislation provides significant tax relief to South Carolina families and workers through multiple provisions. A typical family with two children can expect higher take-home pay of $6,900 to $9,800 compared to if the bill had not passed.

The bill eliminates taxes on tips, benefiting approximately 5 percent of South Carolina’s labor force employed in tip-eligible occupations. Additionally, about 1 million seniors in the state will benefit from the elimination of taxes on Social Security benefits.

South Carolina’s workforce will also see substantial relief through the bill’s overtime tax elimination provision. Roughly 26 percent of all state employees regularly work overtime and could benefit directly, while 66 percent of workers are in occupations likely eligible for overtime compensation.

The legislation particularly strengthens South Carolina’s manufacturing sector, which represents 4 percent of firms, 3 percent of establishments and 13 percent of employment statewide. The bill extends the Section 199A pass-through deduction for small businesses, potentially benefiting about 74,000 firms — 44 percent of all businesses in South Carolina.

The bill also makes permanent and enhances Opportunity Zones incentives, a program championed by Sen. Scott. South Carolina’s 135 Opportunity Zones created an estimated 18,000 jobs following passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act through 2021 and led to construction of approximately 3,900 housing units through the third quarter of 2024.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Makes Permanent Exclusions to Overreaching Obama-Era WOTUS Regulations

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

WASHINGTON – After recently scoring a major victory in her longstanding fight to overturn the harmful expansion of the “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is introducing legislation to prevent future overregulation. Her new bill would make permanent key exclusions clarifying that waste treatment systems, temporary streams from rain, and groundwater are not navigable waterways.
The Clarifying Legal Exclusions Around Regulated (CLEAR) Waters Act excludes covered water features that do not interact with navigable waters from being regulated under WOTUS.
“If you try and navigate a wastewater treatment pool, you will be up a creek without a paddle,” said Ernst. “WOTUS regulatory uncertainty has threatened the livelihoods of hardworking Iowa farmers, small businesses, and landowners for far too long, and I was thrilled to join EPA Administrator Zeldin in announcing that the Trump administration is revising this misguided and harmful regulatory expansion. After leading this fight for a decade, I am making it CLEAR that the federal government has no businesses regulating cooling ponds, municipal treatment plants, groundwater, and streams that only flow after rainfall under WOTUS.”
“Senator Ernst continues to be a champion for Iowa’s farmers and businesses, and her CLEAR Waters Act is another example of her leadership,” said Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture. “This legislation will provide much-needed clarity and consistency when it comes to WOTUS, helping end the constant policy whiplash that changes with each new administration. It’s a commonsense approach that brings certainty to those who are working every day to responsibly manage our land and water.”
“The CLEAR Waters Act would provide Iowa farmers regulatory certainty to ensure waste treatment systems are not treated as navigable waters,” said Brent Swart, Iowa Soybean Association President and farmer from Spencer, Iowa. “This commonsense exclusion allows farmers to continue being good stewards of the land without being overregulated.”
“Thank you, Sen. Joni Ernst, for introducing the CLEAR Waters Act and leading on this issue, which is critical to the aggregates industry,” said Michele Stanley, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association Interim CEO. “The definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) is often subject to change under different administrations. The CLEAR Waters Act will provide the clarity and certainty our association members have long sought by excluding waste treatment systems from WOTUS and Clean Water Act permitting programs. This exclusion has historically received bipartisan support from Republican and Democratic administrations. It was maintained under the definitions of WOTUS established by the past four administrations of Presidents Obama, Trump and Biden. Importantly, the bill codifies key parts of the Sackett decision.”
Click here to view the bill text.
Background:
After leading the fight against Obama’s WOTUS overreach for years, Ernst and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Zeldin recently announced a revision that adheres to the law, cuts red tape, and provides certainty for Iowans.
During her first year in the Senate, Senator Ernst led an effort against the harmful WOTUS rule to protect Iowans from burdensome regulations. Her effort was passed by both the Senate and the House, but President Obama vetoed it.
During Trump’s first term, Ernst commended his administration for successfully rolling back the harmful Obama-era WOTUS rule to help spur economic growth and called on Congress to codify a reasonable definition of WOTUS into law.
After Biden doubled down on Obama’s government overreach, Ernst supported a bipartisan effort, worked in 2023 to stop Biden’s out-of-touch WOTUS rule that aimed to repeal the Trump administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR), and applauded the Supreme Court’s ruling in Sackett v. EPA.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza: MSF finds 1 in 4 young children and pregnant women malnourished as Israel’s policy of starvation continues

Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

Gaza Strip: Israeli authorities’ deliberate use of starvation as a weapon in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, with patients and healthcare workers themselves now fighting to survive, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warns.

MSF staff are receiving an increasing number of malnourished patients at our clinics, while they themselves struggle to find sufficient food. Across screenings of children aged six months to five years old and pregnant and breastfeeding women, at MSF facilities last week, 25 per cent were malnourished. At the MSF clinic in Gaza City, the number of people enrolled for malnutrition has quadrupled since 18 May, while rates of severe malnutrition in children under five have tripled in the last two weeks alone.

This is not just hunger – it’s deliberate starvation, manufactured by the Israeli authorities. The weaponisation of food to exert pressure on a civilian population must not be normalised. Israeli authorities must allow food and aid supplies into Gaza at scale.

“We see the dire consequences of these shortages in Gaza on a daily basis in our clinic,” says Caroline Willemen, project coordinator at the MSF clinic in Gaza City. “We are now enrolling 25 new patients every single day for malnutrition. We see the exhaustion and the hunger in our own colleagues.”

Meanwhile, hundreds of people seeking desperately needed aid continue to be attacked by Israeli forces and private security contractors at food distribution sites run by the Israeli proxy, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

“What we are seeing is unconscionable; an entire population being deliberately cut off from food and water, all while the Israeli forces commit daily massacres as people scramble for scraps of food at distribution sites. Any shred of humanity in Gaza has been wiped out in the ongoing genocide,” says Amande Bazerolle, MSF head of emergency response in Gaza.

In the last two months, more than 1,000 people have been killed and over 7,200 injured, according to the Ministry of Health, as they attempted to collect aid, including a large proportion at the distribution sites of the GHF, which is backed and funded by the US government. Despite these sites being set up to avoid aid diversion, they have done nothing to reduce the existence of looting.

“These food distributions are not humanitarian aid, they are war crimes committed in broad
daylight and presented to the world with compassionate language. Those who go to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s food distributions know that they have the same chance of receiving a sack of flour as they do of leaving with a bullet in their head,” says Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, MSF deputy medical coordinator in Gaza.

In addition to people wounded at GHF sites, our teams have treated dozens of patients from recurrent massacres by Israeli forces as people wait for flour from trucks that pass by.

“In the emergency room of Sheikh Radwan clinic a few days ago, dozens of patients came in, both dead and wounded,” says Willeman. “These were people who had approached trucks for flour and were ruthlessly shot by Israeli forces.

That day MSF and Ministry of Health medical teams at the clinic, in north Gaza, treated 122 people with gunshot wounds who had been fired on while waiting for flour and additional 46 people were dead on arrival.

To make matters worse, in the last week, community kitchens who provide food to patients and medical staff in hospitals have struggled to do so, some shutting down for days at a time. Even if they can deliver, it is only one meal a day of plain rice for patients who need nutrient-rich food to heal properly, and often nothing for staff. This is no longer about what people can afford. There is barely any food available in most of the strip.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: TOMORROW: Governor Newsom to respond to Texas’ redistricting plan and provide update on fight to preserve American democracy

Source: US State of California Governor

Jul 24, 2025

SACRAMENTO COUNTY — Governor Gavin Newsom will hold a press availability tomorrow to discuss Texas’ latest redistricting maneuver aimed at tilting the outcome of the 2026 election — with serious implications for democracy nationwide.

WHEN: Friday, July 25 at approximately 2 p.m.

LIVESTREAM: Governor’s Twitter page, Governor’s Facebook page, and the Governor’s YouTube page. This event will also be available to TV stations on the LiveU Matrix under “California Governor.”

NOTE: This in-person press event will be open to credentialed media only. Media interested in attending must RSVP by clicking here no later than 12 p.m., July 25. Location information will be provided upon RSVP confirmation.

Media advisories, Recent news

Recent news

Jul 24, 2025

News Governor Newsom praises the State Water Board for incorporating the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program into the Bay-Delta Plan What you need to know: The Newsom Administration’s innovative Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program, which improves environmental…

Jul 24, 2025

News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today on a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit striking down California’s ammunition background check law, which was passed by voters in 2016: Strong…

Jul 23, 2025

News What you need to know: Through Governor Newsom’s support of local government efforts and state investments, California is reversing decades of inaction on homelessness. Last year’s 2024 point-in-time count showed California had outperformed the nation by slowing…

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: President Trump to visit Scotland

Source: Scottish Government

First Minister says United States remains one of Scotland’s closest partners.

Scotland will have “a platform to make its voice heard” during the visit of the President of the United States, First Minister John Swinney has said.

Speaking ahead of President Trump’s arrival, Mr Swinney said the global attention the visit will receive provides Scotland with an opportunity to respectfully demonstrate the principles of freedom and justice for all, while also promoting Scotland’s tourism sector and economic investment potential.

First Minister John Swinney said:

“Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that goes back centuries. That partnership remains steadfast through economic, cultural and ancestral links – including of course, with the President himself.

“As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter, including war and peace, justice and democracy.

“It also includes the millions of Americans – many of them potential future tourists or investors in Scotland – who will watch their elected President as he visits our country.

“As First Minister it is my responsibility to advance our interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government across the world. That is exactly what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time in Scotland.

“We are a proud democratic nation, a country that stands firm on the principles of equality and freedom for all, and a society that stands up for a fair and just world. The right to peaceful demonstration is something we cherish, and everyone has the democratic right to protect and express their views in a peaceful, and democratic manner. That is right and proper.

“I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should – peacefully and lawfully. I am also confident that Scotland’s police service can handle the challenge of keeping all our communities safe and, as they must, in maintaining the appropriate security any US President requires.

“This weekend is a landmark moment in our relationship with the United States, and I am certain it will be remembered for Scotland showing the world the very best of itself.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: First Savings Financial Group, Inc. Reports Financial Results for the Third Fiscal Quarter Ended June 30, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind., July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Savings Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSFG – news) (the “Company”), the holding company for First Savings Bank (the “Bank”), today reported net income of $6.2 million, or $0.88 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to net income of $4.1 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. Excluding nonrecurring items, the Company reported net income of $5.7 million (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ and net income per diluted share of $0.81 (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 compared to $3.5 million, or $0.52 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Commenting on the Company’s performance, Larry W. Myers, President and CEO, stated “We are pleased with the third fiscal quarter performance, including the continued improvement in the net interest margin, which has increased 32 basis points from June of 2024 to June of 2025, solid growth in deposits, expense containment, and meaningful efficiency ratio improvement. The SBA Lending segment posted its second consecutive profitable quarter, which included a solid level of loans originations and sales. Additionally, the SBA Lending pipeline for the fourth fiscal quarter remains robust. We are optimistic regarding the remainder of fiscal 2025 as we anticipate further expansion of the net interest margin, continued profitability from the SBA Lending segment, additional sales of home equity lines of credit, and stable and strong asset quality. We will continue our focus on customer deposit growth, select loan growth opportunities, preservation of asset quality, and prudent capital and liquidity management. We will also continue to evaluate options and strategies that we believe will maximize shareholder value.”

(1) Non-GAAP net income and net income per diluted share exclude certain nonrecurring items. A reconciliation to GAAP and discussion of the use of non-GAAP measures is included in the table at the end of this release.

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 and 2024

Net interest income increased $2.2 million, or 15.1%, to $16.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The tax equivalent net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 2.99% as compared to 2.67% for the same period in 2024. The increase in net interest income was due to an increase of $871,000 in interest income and a decrease of $1.3 million in interest expense. A table of average balance sheets, including average asset yields and average liability costs, is included at the end of this release.

The Company recognized a provision for credit losses for loans and unfunded lending commitments of $347,000 and $77,000, respectively, and a reversal of provision for credit losses on securities of $1,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to a provision for credit losses for loans, unfunded lending commitments and securities of $501,000, $158,000 and $84,000, respectively, for the same period in 2024. The Company recognized $309,000 in net charge-offs recognized during the three months ended June 30, 2025, of which $216,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans. During the three months ended June 30, 2024, the Company recognized net charge-offs of $105,000, of which $49,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans. Nonperforming loans, which consist of nonaccrual loans and loans over 90 days past due and still accruing interest, decreased $1.7 million from $16.9 million at September 30, 2024 to $15.2 million at June 30, 2025.

Noninterest income increased $1.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to increases in other income and net gain on sales of SBA loans of $565,000 and $351,000, respectively, and net gain on sales of home equity lines of credit (“HELOC”) of $617,000, partially offset by a $404,000 decrease in net unrealized gains on equity securities. The increase in other income was primarily due to a $487,000 gain recognized in connection with a lease termination. The was no gain on sales of HELOC in the 2024 period as the sale of this product commenced in fiscal 2025.

Noninterest expense increased $1.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to an increase in compensation and benefits of $904,000, which was due to routine salary increases and increases in bonus and incentive accruals in 2025 related to stronger Company performance.

The Company recognized income tax expense of $963,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $483,000 for the same period in 2024. The increase is due primarily to higher taxable income in 2025 as compared to 2024. The effective tax rate for 2025 was 13.5% compared to 10.6% for 2024. The effective tax rate is well below the statutory tax rate primarily due to the recognition of investment tax credits related to solar projects in both the 2025 and 2024 periods.

Results of Operations for the Nine Months Ended June 30, 2025 and 2024

The Company reported net income of $17.9 million, or $2.57 per diluted share, for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $9.9 million, or $1.45 per diluted share, for the nine months ended June 30, 2024. Excluding nonrecurring items, the Company reported net income of $15.1 million (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ and net income per diluted share of $2.16 (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $9.4 million and net income per diluted share of $1.37 for the nine months ended June 30, 2024. The core banking segment reported net income of $17.2 million, or $2.46 per diluted share for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $13.3 million and net income per diluted share of $1.92 for the nine months ended June 30, 2024. Excluding nonrecurring items, the core banking segment reported net income of $14.4 million (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾, or $2.05 per diluted share (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $12.9 million and net income per diluted share of $1.89 for the nine months ended June 30, 2024.

Net interest income increased $5.2 million, or 12.1%, to $48.2 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The tax equivalent net interest margin for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 was 2.89% as compared to 2.67% for the same period in 2024. The increase in net interest income was due to a $5.5 million increase in interest income, partially offset by a $279,000 increase in interest expense. A table of average balance sheets, including average asset yields and average liability costs, is included at the end of this release.

The Company recognized a reversal of provision for credit losses for loans and securities of $501,000 and $8,000, respectively, and a provision for unfunded lending commitments of $246,000 for the nine months ended June 30, 2025, compared to a provision for credit losses for loans and securities of $1.7 million and $107,000, respectively, and reversal of provision for unfunded lending commitments of $159,000 for the same period in 2024. The reversal of provisions during the 2025 period was due primarily to the bulk sale of approximately $87.2 million of HELOC during the period and a decrease in qualitative reserves. The Company recognized net charge-offs totaling $271,000 for the nine months ended June 30, 2025, of which $52,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans, compared to net charge-offs of $224,000 in 2024, of which $15,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans.

Noninterest income increased $4.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to a $3.1 million net gain on sales of HELOC, a $403,000 net gain on sales of equity securities in 2025, and the aforementioned $487,000 gain recognized in connection with a lease termination in the 2025 period with no corresponding gain amounts for the 2024 period.

Noninterest expense increased $2.1 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to increases in compensation and benefits and other operating expenses of $1.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively, partially offset by a decrease in professional fees of $412,000. The increase in compensation and benefits is primarily due to routine salary increases and increases in bonus and incentive accruals in 2025 related to stronger Company performance. The increase in other operating expenses was due primarily to a $721,000 reversal of accrued loss contingencies for SBA-guaranteed loans in the 2024 period with no corresponding amount for the 2025 period and a $405,000 accrued contingent liability associated with employee benefits recognized in the 2025 period with no corresponding amount in the 2024 period. The decrease in professional fees is primarily due to the cessation of national mortgage banking operations in the quarter ended December 31, 2023.

The Company recognized income tax expense of $2.4 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $873,000 for the same period in 2024. The increase is due primarily to higher taxable income in the 2025 period. The effective tax rate for 2025 was 11.8% compared to 8.1%. The effective tax rate is well below the statutory tax rate primarily due to the recognition of investment tax credits related to solar projects in both the 2025 and 2024 periods.

Comparison of Financial Condition at June 30, 2025 and September 30, 2024

Total assets decreased $33.7 million, from $2.45 billion at September 30, 2024 to $2.42 billion at June 30, 2025. Net loans held for investment decreased $68.0 million during the nine months ended June 30, 2025, due primarily to $109.1 million of sales of HELOC during the nine months ended June 30, 2025, and residential mortgage loans held for sale increased $42.1 million during the same period.

Total liabilities decreased $40.4 million due primarily to a decrease in total deposits and other borrowings of $144.7 and $19.9 million, respectively, partially offset by an increase in FHLB borrowings of $133.3 million. The decrease in total deposits was due to a decrease in brokered deposits of $229.1 million, which was due primarily to proceeds from the aforementioned sales of HELOC and greater utilization of FHLB borrowings, partially offset by an increase in customer deposits of $84.4 million. The decrease in other borrowings is due to the redemption of $20.0 million of subordinated notes during the quarter ended June 30, 2023. As of June 30, 2025, deposits exceeding the FDIC insurance limit of $250,000 per insured account were 35.0% of total deposits and 14.3% of total deposits when excluding public funds insured by the Indiana Public Deposit Insurance Fund.

Total stockholders’ equity increased $6.7 million, from $177.1 million at September 30, 2024 to $183.8 million at June 30, 2025, due primarily to a $14.6 million increase in retained net income, partially offset by a $8.9 million increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss. The increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss was due primarily to increasing long-term market interest rates during the nine months ended June 30, 2025, which resulted in a decrease in the fair value of securities available for sale. At June 30, 2025 and September 30, 2024, the Bank was considered “well-capitalized” under applicable regulatory capital guidelines.

First Savings Bank is an entrepreneurial community bank headquartered in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which is directly across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky, and operates fifteen depository branches within Southern Indiana. The Bank also has two national lending programs, including single-tenant net lease commercial real estate and SBA lending, with offices located predominately in the Midwest. The Bank is a recognized leader, both in its local communities and nationally for its lending programs. The employees of First Savings Bank strive daily to achieve the organization’s vision, We Expect To Be The BEST community BANK, which fuels our success. The Company’s common shares trade on The NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol “FSFG.”

This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are not historical facts; rather, they are statements based on the Company’s current expectations regarding its business strategies and their intended results and its future performance. Forward-looking statements are preceded by terms such as “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends” and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Numerous risks and uncertainties could cause or contribute to the Company’s actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause or contribute to these differences include, without limitation, changes in general economic conditions; changes in market interest rates; changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; legislative and regulatory changes; and other factors disclosed in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Because of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them, whether included in this release or made elsewhere from time to time by the Company or on its behalf. Except as may be required by applicable law or regulation, the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Tony A. Schoen, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
812-283-0724


FIRST SAVINGS FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
OPERATING DATA:	June 30,						June 30,
(In thousands, except share and per share data)		2025			2024			2025			2024

Total interest income	$	31,965		$	31,094		$	95,237		$	89,765
Total interest expense		15,240			16,560			47,059			46,780

Net interest income		16,725			14,534			48,178			42,985

Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		347			501			(501	)		1,684
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		77			158			246			(159	)
Provision (credit) for credit losses – securities		(1	)		84			(8	)		107

Total provision (credit) for credit losses		423			743			(263	)		1,632

Net interest income after provision (credit) for credit losses		16,302			13,791			48,441			41,353

Total noninterest income		4,520			3,196			14,183			9,688
Total noninterest expense		13,693			12,431			42,334			40,248

Income before income taxes		7,129			4,556			20,290			10,793
Income tax expense		963			483			2,400			873

Net income	$	6,166		$	4,073		$	17,890		$	9,920

Net income per share, basic	$	0.90		$	0.60		$	2.60		$	1.45
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		6,881,077			6,832,452			6,867,734			6,829,490

Net income per share, diluted	$	0.88		$	0.60		$	2.57		$	1.45
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted		6,977,674			6,834,784			6,967,742			6,851,145


Performance ratios (annualized)
Return on average assets		1.02	%		0.69	%		0.99	%		0.57	%
Return on average equity		13.66	%		9.86	%		13.32	%		8.23	%
Return on average common stockholders’ equity		13.66	%		9.86	%		13.32	%		8.23	%
Net interest margin (tax equivalent basis)		2.99	%		2.67	%		2.89	%		2.67	%
Efficiency ratio		64.45	%		70.11	%		67.89	%		76.41	%


							QTD						FYTD
FINANCIAL CONDITION DATA:	June 30,			March 31,			Increase			September 30,			Increase
(In thousands, except per share data)		2025			2025		(Decrease)				2024		(Decrease)

Total assets	$	2,416,675		$	2,376,230		$	40,445		$	2,450,368		$	(33,693	)
Cash and cash equivalents		52,123			28,683			23,440			52,142			(19	)
Investment securities		244,284			244,084			200			249,719			(5,435	)
Loans held for sale		60,970			61,239			(269	)		25,716			35,254
Gross loans		1,916,343			1,900,660			15,683			1,985,146			(68,803	)
Allowance for credit losses		20,522			20,484			38			21,294			(772	)
Interest earning assets		2,260,099			2,219,504			40,595			2,277,512			(17,413	)
Goodwill		9,848			9,848			–			9,848			–
Core deposit intangibles		275			316			(41	)		398			(123	)
Noninterest-bearing deposits		202,649			185,252			17,397			191,528			11,121
Interest-bearing deposits (customer)		1,253,525			1,207,159			46,366			1,180,196			73,329
Interest-bearing deposits (brokered)		280,020			396,770			(116,750	)		509,157			(229,137	)
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		434,924			325,310			109,614			301,640			133,284
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		28,722			48,682			(19,960	)		48,603			(19,881	)
Total liabilities		2,232,853			2,197,041			35,812			2,273,253			(40,400	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(20,061	)		(19,385	)		(676	)		(11,195	)		(8,866	)
Total stockholders’ equity		183,822			179,189			4,633			177,115			6,707

Book value per share	$	26.35		$	25.90			0.45		$	25.72			0.63
Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP) (1)		24.90			24.43			0.47			24.23			0.67

Non-performing assets:
Nonaccrual loans – SBA guaranteed	$	2,713		$	123		$	2,590		$	5,036		$	(2,323	)
Nonaccrual loans		12,502			12,597			(95	)		11,906			596
Total nonaccrual loans	$	15,215		$	12,720		$	2,495		$	16,942		$	(1,727	)
Accruing loans past due 90 days		–			–			–			–			–
Total non-performing loans		15,215			12,720			2,495			16,942			(1,727	)
Foreclosed real estate		1,113			444			669			444			669
Total non-performing assets	$	16,328		$	13,164		$	3,164		$	17,386		$	(1,058	)

Asset quality ratios:
Allowance for credit losses as a percent of total gross loans		1.07	%		1.08	%		(0.01	%)		1.07	%		(0.00	%)
Allowance for credit losses as a percent of nonperforming loans		134.88	%		161.04	%		(26.16	%)		125.69	%		9.19	%
Nonperforming loans as a percent of total gross loans		0.79	%		0.67	%		0.12	%		0.85	%		(0.06	%)
Nonperforming assets as a percent of total assets		0.68	%		0.55	%		0.13	%		0.71	%		(0.03	%)

(1) See reconciliation of GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures for additional information relating to calculation of this item.


RECONCILIATION OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (UNAUDITED):
The following non-GAAP financial measures used by the Company provide information useful to investors in understanding the Company’s performance. The Company believes the financial measures presented below are important because of their widespread use by investors as a means to evaluate capital adequacy and earnings. The following table summarizes the non-GAAP financial measures derived from amounts reported in the Company’s consolidated financial statements and reconciles those non-GAAP financial measures with the comparable GAAP financial measures.

	Three Months Ended						Fiscal Year Ended
Net Income	June 30,						June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2024			2025			2024

Net income attributable to the Company (non-GAAP)	$	5,691		$	3,534		$	15,057		$	9,381
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			1,869			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		110			–			110			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		365			–			365			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			302			–
Plus: Decrease in loss contingency for SBA-guaranteed loans, net of tax effect		–			212			–			212
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			186			–
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			327			–			327
Net income attributable to the Company (GAAP)	$	6,166		$	4,073		$	17,890		$	9,920

Net Income per Share, Diluted

Net income per share attributable to the Company, diluted (non-GAAP)	$	0.81		$	0.52		$	2.16		$	1.37
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			0.27			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		0.02			–			0.02			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		0.05			–			0.05			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			0.04			–
Plus: Decrease in loss contingency for SBA-guaranteed loans, net of tax effect		–			0.03			–			0.03
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			0.03			–
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			0.05			–			0.05
Net income per share, diluted (GAAP)	$	0.88		$	0.60		$	2.57		$	1.45

Core Bank Segment Net Income
(In thousands)

Net income attributable to the Core Bank (non-GAAP)	$	5,299		$	4,176		$	14,379		$	12,947
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			1,869			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		110			–			110			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		365			–			365			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			302			–
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			186			–
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			327			–			327
Net income attributable to the Core Bank (GAAP)	$	5,774		$	4,503		$	17,212		$	13,274

Core Bank Segment Net Income per Share, Diluted

Core Bank net income per share, diluted (non-GAAP)	$	0.75		$	0.64		$	2.05		$	1.89
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			0.27			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		0.02			–			0.02			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		0.05			–			0.05			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			0.04			–
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			–			0.03
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			0.05			0.03			–
Core Bank net income per share, diluted (GAAP)	$	0.82		$	0.69		$	2.46		$	1.92


RECONCILIATION OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended						Fiscal Year Ended
Efficiency Ratio	June 30,						June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2024			2025			2024

Net interest income (GAAP)	$	16,725		$	14,534		$	48,178		$	42,985

Noninterest income (GAAP)		4,520			3,196			14,183			9,688

Noninterest expense (GAAP)		13,693			12,431			42,334			40,248

Efficiency ratio (GAAP)		64.45	%		70.11	%		67.89	%		76.41	%

Noninterest income (GAAP)	$	4,520		$	3,196		$	14,183		$	9,688
Less: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit		–			–			(2,492	)		–
Less: Gain on life insurance		(147	)		–			(147	)		–
Less: Gain on lease termination		(487	)		–			(487	)		–
Less: Gain on sale of equity securities		–			–			(403	)		–
Less: Gain on sale of premises and equipment		–			–			(140	)		–
Less: Recording of Visa Class C shares		–			(245	)		–			(245	)
Noninterest income (Non-GAAP)		3,886			2,951			10,515			9,443

Noninterest expense (GAAP)	$	13,693		$	12,431		$	42,334		$	40,248
Plus: Decrease in loss contingency for SBA-guaranteed loans		–			283			–			283
Noninterest expense (Non-GAAP)	$	13,693		$	12,714		$	42,334		$	40,531

Efficiency ratio (excluding nonrecurring items) (non-GAAP)		66.44	%		72.71	%		72.13	%		77.31	%

							QTD						FYTD
Tangible Book Value Per Share	June 30,			March 31,			Increase			September 30,			Increase
(In thousands, except share and per share data)		2025			2025		(Decrease)				2024		(Decrease)

Stockholders’ equity (GAAP)	$	183,822		$	179,189		$	4,633		$	177,115		$	6,707
Less: goodwill and core deposit intangibles		(10,123	)		(10,164	)		41			(10,246	)		123
Tangible stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)	$	173,699		$	169,025		$	4,674		$	166,869		$	6,830

Outstanding common shares		6,976,558			6,919,136		$	57,422			6,887,106		$	89,452

Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)	$	24.90		$	24.43		$	0.47		$	24.23		$	0.67

Book value per share (GAAP)	$	26.35		$	25.90		$	0.45		$	25.72		$	0.63



SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED):	As of
Summarized Consolidated Balance Sheets	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except per share data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Total cash and cash equivalents	$	52,123		$	28,683		$	76,224		$	52,142		$	42,423
Total investment securities		244,284			244,084			242,634			249,719			238,785
Total loans held for sale		60,970			61,239			24,441			25,716			125,859
Total loans, net of allowance for credit losses		1,895,821			1,880,176			1,884,514			1,963,852			1,826,980
Loan servicing rights		2,869			2,744			2,661			2,754			2,860
Total assets		2,416,675			2,376,230			2,388,735			2,450,368			2,393,491

Customer deposits	$	1,456,174		$	1,392,411		$	1,395,766		$	1,371,724		$	1,312,997
Brokered deposits		280,020			396,770			437,008			509,157			399,151
Total deposits		1,736,194			1,789,181			1,832,774			1,880,881			1,712,148
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		434,924			325,310			295,000			301,640			425,000

Common stock and additional paid-in capital	$	30,090		$	28,650		$	28,382		$	27,725		$	27,592
Retained earnings – substantially restricted		187,969			182,918			178,526			173,337			170,688
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(20,061	)		(19,385	)		(17,789	)		(11,195	)		(17,415	)
Unearned stock compensation		(2,005	)		(862	)		(973	)		(901	)		(999	)
Less treasury stock, at cost		(12,171	)		(12,132	)		(12,119	)		(11,851	)		(11,866	)
Total stockholders’ equity		183,822			179,189			176,027			177,115			168,000

Outstanding common shares		6,976,558			6,919,136			6,909,173			6,887,106			6,883,656


	Three Months Ended
Summarized Consolidated Statements of Income	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except per share data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Total interest income	$	31,965		$	30,823		$	32,449		$	32,223		$	31,094
Total interest expense		15,240			14,832			16,987			17,146			16,560
Net interest income		16,725			15,991			15,462			15,077			14,534
Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		347			(357	)		(491	)		1,808			501
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		77			123			46			(262	)		158
Provision (credit) for credit losses – securities		(1	)		(1	)		(6	)		(86	)		84
Total provision (credit) for credit losses		423			(235	)		(451	)		1,460			743

Net interest income after provision for credit losses		16,302			16,226			15,913			13,617			13,791

Total noninterest income		4,520			3,560			6,103			2,842			3,196
Total noninterest expense		13,693			13,698			14,943			12,642			12,431
Income before income taxes		7,129			6,088			7,073			3,817			4,556
Income tax expense (benefit)		963			589			848			145			483
Net income		6,166			5,499			6,225			3,672			4,073


Net income per share, basic	$	0.90		$	0.80		$	0.91		$	0.54		$	0.60
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		6,881,077			6,875,826			6,851,153			6,832,626			6,832,452

Net income per share, diluted	$	0.88		$	0.79		$	0.89		$	0.53		$	0.60
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted		6,977,674			6,960,020			6,969,223			6,894,532			6,842,336


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Noninterest Income Detail	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Service charges on deposit accounts	$	537		$	541		$	567		$	552		$	538
ATM and interchange fees		648			632			665			642			593
Net unrealized gain on equity securities		15			47			78			28			419
Net gain on equity securities		–			–			403			–			–
Net gain on sales of loans, Small Business Administration		932			1,078			711			647			581
Net gain on sales of loans, home equity lines of credit		617			–			2,492			–			–
Mortgage banking income		96			104			78			6			49
Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance		358			380			361			363			353
Gain on life insurance		147			–			108			–			–
Commission income		184			255			210			294			220
Real estate lease income		132			122			121			122			154
Net gain (loss) on premises and equipment		–			–			45			(4	)		–
Other income		854			401			264			192			289
Total noninterest income	$	4,520		$	3,560		$	6,103		$	2,842		$	3,196


	Three Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
Consolidated Performance Ratios (Annualized)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Return on average assets		1.02	%		0.93	%		1.02	%		0.61	%		0.69	%
Return on average equity		13.66	%		12.24	%		14.07	%		8.52	%		9.86	%
Return on average common stockholders’ equity		13.66	%		12.34	%		14.07	%		8.52	%		9.86	%
Net interest margin (tax equivalent basis)		2.99	%		2.93	%		2.75	%		2.72	%		2.67	%
Efficiency ratio		64.45	%		70.06	%		69.29	%		70.55	%		70.11	%


	As of or for the Three Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
Consolidated Asset Quality Ratios		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans		0.79	%		0.67	%		0.87	%		0.85	%		0.91	%
Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets		0.68	%		0.55	%		0.71	%		0.71	%		0.72	%
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans		1.07	%		1.08	%		1.09	%		1.07	%		1.07	%
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans		134.88	%		161.04	%		124.85	%		125.69	%		118.12	%
Net charge-offs to average outstanding loans		0.02	%		-0.01	%		0.01	%		0.02	%		0.01	%


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Segmented Statements of Income Information	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Core Banking Segment:
Net interest income	$	15,086		$	14,259		$	13,756		$	14,083		$	13,590
Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		420			(540	)		(745	)		1,339			320
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		32			35			(75	)		78			64
Provision (credit) for credit losses – securities		(1	)		(1	)		(7	)		(86	)		84
Total provision (credit) for credit losses		451			(506	)		(827	)		1,331			468
Net interest income after provision (credit) for credit losses		14,635			14,765			14,583			12,752			13,122
Noninterest income		3,340			2,242			5,253			2,042			2,474
Noninterest expense		11,366			11,486			12,574			10,400			10,192
Income before income taxes		6,609			5,521			7,262			4,394			5,404
Income tax expense		835			452			893			301			689
Net income	$	5,774		$	5,069		$	6,369		$	4,093		$	4,715

SBA Lending Segment (Q2):
Net interest income	$	1,639		$	1,732		$	1,706		$	994		$	944
Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		(73	)		183			255			469			181
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		45			88			121			(340	)		94
Total provision (credit) for credit losses		(28	)		271			376			129			275
Net interest income after provision for credit losses		1,667			1,461			1,330			865			669
Noninterest income		1,180			1,318			850			800			722
Noninterest expense		2,327			2,212			2,369			2,242			2,239
Income (loss) before income taxes		520			567			(189	)		(577	)		(848	)
Income tax expense (benefit)		128			137			(45	)		(156	)		(206	)
Net income (loss)	$	392		$	430		$	(144	)	$	(421	)	$	(642	)


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Segmented Statements of Income Information	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except percentage data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Net Income (Loss) Per Share by Segment
Net income per share, basic – Core Banking	$	0.84		$	0.74		$	0.93		$	0.60		$	0.69
Net income (loss) per share, basic – SBA Lending (Q2)		0.06			0.06			(0.02	)		(0.06	)		(0.09	)
Total net income (loss) per share, basic	$	0.90		$	0.80		$	0.91		$	0.54		$	0.60

Net Income (Loss) Per Diluted Share by Segment
Net income per share, diluted – Core Banking	$	0.82		$	0.73		$	0.91		$	0.59		$	0.69
Net income (loss) per share, diluted – SBA Lending (Q2)		0.06			0.06			(0.02	)		(0.06	)		(0.09	)
Total net income per share, diluted	$	0.88		$	0.79		$	0.89		$	0.53		$	0.60

Return on Average Assets by Segment (annualized) (3)
Core Banking		1.01	%		0.90	%		1.09	%		0.71	%		0.83	%
SBA Lending		1.36	%		1.58	%		(0.55	%)		(1.71	%)		(2.91	%)

Efficiency Ratio by Segment (annualized) (3)
Core Banking		61.68	%		69.61	%		66.15	%		64.50	%		63.45	%
SBA Lending		82.55	%		72.52	%		92.68	%		124.97	%		134.39	%


	Three Months Ended
Noninterest Expense Detail by Segment	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Core Banking Segment:
Compensation	$	6,470		$	6,637		$	7,245		$	5,400		$	5,587
Occupancy		1,533			1,648			1,577			1,554			1,573
Advertising		437			429			338			399			253
Other		2,926			2,772			3,414			3,047			2,779
Total Noninterest Expense	$	11,366		$	11,486		$	12,574		$	10,400		$	10,192

SBA Lending Segment (Q2):
Compensation	$	1,914		$	1,892		$	1,931		$	1,854		$	1,893
Occupancy		92			50			59			55			51
Advertising		17			10			14			17			12
Other		304			260			365			316			283
Total Noninterest Expense	$	2,327		$	2,212		$	2,369		$	2,242		$	2,239


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
SBA Lending (Q2) Data	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except percentage data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Final funded loans guaranteed portion sold, SBA	$	18,019		$	15,716		$	10,785		$	10,880		$	7,515

Gross gain on sales of loans, SBA	$	1,548		$	1,508		$	1,141		$	1,029		$	811
Weighted average gross gain on sales of loans, SBA		8.59	%		9.60	%		10.58	%		9.46	%		10.79	%

Net gain on sales of loans, SBA (2)	$	932		$	1,078		$	711		$	647		$	581
Weighted average net gain on sales of loans, SBA		5.17	%		6.86	%		6.59	%		5.95	%		7.73	%


(2) Inclusive of gains on servicing assets and net of commissions, referral fees, SBA repair fees and discounts on unguaranteed portions held-for-investment.


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Summarized Consolidated Average Balance Sheets	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024
Interest-earning assets
Average balances:
Interest-bearing deposits with banks	$	15,889		$	11,851		$	21,102		$	16,841		$	26,100
Loans		1,992,567			1,946,338			2,010,082			1,988,997			1,943,716
Investment securities – taxable		104,169			102,744			101,960			99,834			101,350
Investment securities – nontaxable		162,017			161,579			160,929			158,917			157,991
FRB and FHLB stock		24,993			24,986			24,986			24,986			24,986
Total interest-earning assets	$	2,299,635		$	2,247,498		$	2,319,059		$	2,289,575		$	2,254,143

Interest income (tax equivalent basis):
Interest-bearing deposits with banks	$	145		$	168		$	210		$	209		$	324
Loans		29,214			27,998			29,617			29,450			28,155
Investment securities – taxable		947			921			914			910			918
Investment securities – nontaxable		1,733			1,719			1,715			1,685			1,665
FRB and FHLB stock		416			511			493			471			519
Total interest income (tax equivalent basis)	$	32,455		$	31,317		$	32,949		$	32,725		$	31,581

Weighted average yield (tax equivalent basis, annualized):
Interest-bearing deposits with banks		3.65	%		5.67	%		3.98	%		4.96	%		4.97	%
Loans		5.86	%		5.75	%		5.89	%		5.92	%		5.79	%
Investment securities – taxable		3.64	%		3.59	%		3.59	%		3.65	%		3.62	%
Investment securities – nontaxable		4.28	%		4.26	%		4.26	%		4.24	%		4.22	%
FRB and FHLB stock		6.66	%		8.18	%		7.89	%		7.54	%		8.31	%
Total interest-earning assets		5.65	%		5.57	%		5.68	%		5.72	%		5.60	%

Interest-bearing liabilities
Interest-bearing deposits	$	1,537,248		$	1,653,058		$	1,671,156		$	1,563,258		$	1,572,871
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		437,371			266,975			315,583			378,956			351,227
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		35,070			48,656			48,616			48,576			48,537
Total interest-bearing liabilities	$	2,009,689		$	1,968,689		$	2,035,355		$	1,990,790		$	1,972,635

Interest expense:
Interest-bearing deposits	$	10,601		$	12,069		$	13,606		$	12,825		$	12,740
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		4,149			2,001			2,617			3,521			3,021
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		489			762			764			800			799
Total interest expense	$	15,239		$	14,832		$	16,987		$	17,146		$	16,560

Weighted average cost (annualized):
Interest-bearing deposits		2.76	%		2.92	%		3.26	%		3.28	%		3.24	%
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		3.79	%		3.00	%		3.32	%		3.72	%		3.44	%
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		5.58	%		6.26	%		6.29	%		6.59	%		6.58	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		3.03	%		3.01	%		3.34	%		3.45	%		3.36	%

Net interest income (taxable equivalent basis)	$	17,216		$	16,485		$	15,962		$	15,579		$	15,021
Less: taxable equivalent adjustment		(491	)		(494	)		(500	)		(502	)		(487	)
Net interest income	$	16,725		$	15,991		$	15,462		$	15,077		$	14,534

Interest rate spread (tax equivalent basis, annualized)		2.62	%		2.56	%		2.34	%		2.27	%		2.24	%

Net interest margin (tax equivalent basis, annualized)		2.99	%		2.93	%		2.75	%		2.72	%		2.67	%

The MIL Network –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: Chinese women’s federations urged to advance institutional reform

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

BEIJING, July 24 — Chinese State Councilor and All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF) President Shen Yiqin on Thursday called for continued reform of women’s federations.

Speaking at an expanded meeting of the ACWF Standing Committee, Shen said advancing reform of women’s federations is both a key mandate from the third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee and essential to mobilizing women’s strength in advancing Chinese modernization.

Shen highlighted actions to strengthen political orientation and grassroots presence of women’s organizations, and maintain their progressive nature.

She urged the federations to reinforce organizational networks, expand diverse working teams, improve cadre competence, and facilitate a shift in working style.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: 9 Chinese cities accredited as int’l wetland cities

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

VICTORIA FALLS, Zimbabwe, July 24 — A total of nine Chinese cities were accredited as international wetland cities on Thursday during the opening of the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) held in Zimbabwe’s resort city of Victoria Falls, bringing the total number of such cities in China to 22, the highest in the world.

The nine newly accredited cities are Chongming in Shanghai, Dali in Yunnan Province, Fuzhou in Fujian Province, Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province, Jiujiang in Jiangxi Province, Lhasa in the Xizang Autonomous Region, Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province, and Yueyang in Hunan Province.

Johane Chenjekwa, mayor of Kasane in Botswana, commended China for promoting wetland conservation, noting that Africa can benefit from cooperation with China in wetland management.

“We will see, as we interact, what we can learn from them. They are also willing to learn from how we do things here, so it’s really a (great) experience to be mingling (together),” he said.

Chenjekwa added that as the world faces the common challenge of wetland degradation, joint efforts with China can help tackle its impacts.

In his opening remarks, Jay Aldous, deputy secretary-general of the Convention on Wetlands, noted that while urbanization brings tangible development progress, there is a need to ensure that it does not interfere with wetland preservation.

“Unplanned or poorly managed urban expansion has emerged as a global concern, contributing to the degradation of wetlands, loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecological balance, rising greenhouse gas emissions, worsening air and water pollution, and escalating the impacts of climate change,” he said.

In response to these challenges and recognizing the pivotal role of cities and urban wetlands, the Convention on Wetlands launched the Wetland City Accreditation scheme to encourage the protection of urban wetlands and their integration into sustainable urban planning, Aldous said.

“By embracing the convention’s principles of wise use, cities can harness the ecological, social, and economic benefits that wetlands provide, including climate adaptation and mitigation, flood regulation, cultural value, and improved human well-being,” he said.

Held under the theme of “Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future”, the COP15, which will conclude on July 31, has brought together contracting parties to strengthen international commitments to wetland protection.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Congressman Castro Testifies at Texas Capitol to Stand Against Governor Abbott’s Gerrymandering Efforts

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

July 24, 2025

AUSTIN, TX — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) testified before the Texas House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting to stand up to Governor Greg Abbott and President Trump for subverting the will of all Texans and disenfranchising the voting power of minority voters.

Congressman Castro Delivers 2 Minute Testimony

Congressman Castro’s testimony below:

Thank you, Chairman and Members of the Committee.

I am proud to represent my hometown of San Antonio, Texas, the 20^th Congressional District.

I was a freshman in 2003, when as Democrats, we left the state for Ardmore, Oklahoma, to stop mid-decade redistricting more than 20 years ago.

It was wrong then, and it’s wrong now.

And you all are being used. You’re being used by the White House and by Donald Trump. You’re being used because he doesn’t want Democrats to control the majority of the Congress so that there’ll be no investigations.

There has been no discussion in Congress about the floods that occurred in Kerr County and the loss of so many lives. There has been no discussion on the Epstein files, no discussions on the Iran leaks and all those messages by the Secretary of Defense and others.

There literally is no accountability right now in Congress and the people that are going to pay for this are the folks in Black and Brown communities in our cities. They’re going to have their districts cracked and packed and un-Blacked because of this effort.

That’s what’s at stake here, whether you all are going to work for the people of Texas, as we used to do, or try to do, or whether you’re going to take your commandments from Donald Trump and the White House.

I hope that you all will choose to do the business of the people of Texas as this body has a history of being independent from the federal government, not a stooge for it.

I yield back.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

Category: Politics

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Congressman Castro’s testimony below: