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Category: Politics

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is ‘cognitive shuffling’ and does it really help you get to sleep? Two sleep scientists explain

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Melinda Jackson, Associate Professor at Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University

    Ursula Ferrara/Shutterstock

    If you’ve been on social media lately – perhaps scrolling in the middle of the night, when you know you shouldn’t but you just can’t sleep – you might have seen those videos promoting a get-to-sleep technique called “cognitive shuffling”.

    The idea, proponents say, is to engage your mind with random ideas and images via a special formula:

    1. pick a random word (such as “cake”)
    2. focus on the first letter of the word (in this case, C) and list a bunch of words starting with that letter: cat, carrot, calendar and so on
    3. visualise each word as you go along
    4. when you feel ready, move onto the next letter (A) and repeat the process
    5. continue with each letter of the original word (so, in this case, K and then E) until you feel ready to switch to a new word or until you drift off to sleep.

    It’s popular on Instagram and TikTok, but does “cognitive shuffling” have any basis in science?

    Where did this idea come from?

    The cognitive shuffling technique was made famous by Canada-based researcher Luc P. Beaudoin more than a decade ago, when he published a paper about how what he called “serial diverse imagining” could help with sleep.

    One of Beaudoin’s hypothetical examples involved a woman thinking of the word “blanket”, then thinking bicycle (and imagining a bicycle), buying (imagining buying shoes), banana (visualising a banana tree) and so on.

    Soon, Beaudoin writes, she moves onto the letter L, thinking about her friend Larry, the word “like” (imagining her son hugging his dog). She soon transitions to the letter A, thinking of the word “Amsterdam”:

    and she might very vaguely imagine the large hand of a sailor gesturing for another order of fries in an Amsterdam pub while a rancid accordion plays in the background.

    Sleep soon ensues. The goal, according to Beaudoin, is to think briefly about:

    a neutral or pleasant target and frequently [switch] to unrelated targets (normally every 5-15 seconds).

    Don’t try to relate one word with another or find a link between the words; resist the mind’s natural tendency toward sense-making.

    While the research into this technique is still in its infancy, the idea is grounded in science. That’s because we know from other research good sleepers tend to have different kinds of thoughts in bed to bad sleepers.

    People with insomnia are more focused on worries, problems, or noises in the environment, and are often preoccupied with not sleeping.

    Good sleepers, on the other hand, typically have dream-like, hallucinatory, less ordered thoughts before nodding off.

    Good sleepers typically have dream-like, hallucinatory, less ordered thoughts before nodding off.
    fran_kie/Shutterstock

    Sorting the pro-somnolent wheat from the insomnolent chaff

    Cognitive shuffling attempts to mimic the thinking patterns of good sleepers by simulating the dream-like and random thought patterns they generally have before drifting off to sleep.

    In particular, Beaudoin’s research describes two types of sleep-related thoughts: insomnolent (or anti-sleep) and pro-somnolent (sleep-promoting) thoughts.

    Insomnolent thoughts include things such as worrying, planning, rehearsing, and ruminating on perceived problems or failings.

    Pro-somnolent thoughts on the other hand involve thoughts that can help you fall asleep, such as dream-like imagery or having a calm, relaxed state of mind.

    Cognitive shuffling aims to distract from or interfere with insomnolent thought. It offers a calm, neutral path for your racing mind, and can reduce the stress associated with not sleeping.

    Cognitive shuffling also helps tell your brain you are ready for sleep.

    In fact, the process of “shuffling” between different thoughts is similar to the way your brain naturally drifts off to sleep. During the transition to sleep, brain activity slows. Your brain starts to generate disconnected images and fleeting scenes, known as hypnagogic hallucinations, without a conscious effort to make sense of them.

    By mimicking these scattered, disconnected, and random thought patterns, cognitive shuffling may help you transition from wakefulness to sleep.

    And the preliminary research into this is promising. Beaudoin and his team have found serial diverse imagining helps to lower arousal before sleep, improve sleep quality and reduce the effort involved in falling asleep.

    However, with only a small number of research studies, more work is needed here.

    It didn’t work. Now what?

    As with every new strategy, however, practise makes perfect. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t see an improvement straight away; these things take time.

    Stay consistent and be kind to yourself.

    And what works for some won’t work for others. Different people benefit from different types of strategies depending on how they relate to and experience stress or stressful thoughts.

    Other strategies to help create the right conditions for sleep include:

    If, despite all your best efforts, night time thoughts continue to impact your sleep or overall wellbeing, consider seeking professional help from your doctor or a trained sleep specialist.

    Melinda Jackson has received funding from the Medical Research Future Fund, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) and Dementia Australia. She a board member of the Australasian Sleep Association.

    Eleni Kavaliotis has previously received funding from an Australian government Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship. She is a member of the Australasian Sleep Association’s Insomnia and Sleep Health Council.

    – ref. What is ‘cognitive shuffling’ and does it really help you get to sleep? Two sleep scientists explain – https://theconversation.com/what-is-cognitive-shuffling-and-does-it-really-help-you-get-to-sleep-two-sleep-scientists-explain-256444

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is ‘cognitive shuffling’ and does it really help you get to sleep? Two sleep scientists explain

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Melinda Jackson, Associate Professor at Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University

    Ursula Ferrara/Shutterstock

    If you’ve been on social media lately – perhaps scrolling in the middle of the night, when you know you shouldn’t but you just can’t sleep – you might have seen those videos promoting a get-to-sleep technique called “cognitive shuffling”.

    The idea, proponents say, is to engage your mind with random ideas and images via a special formula:

    1. pick a random word (such as “cake”)
    2. focus on the first letter of the word (in this case, C) and list a bunch of words starting with that letter: cat, carrot, calendar and so on
    3. visualise each word as you go along
    4. when you feel ready, move onto the next letter (A) and repeat the process
    5. continue with each letter of the original word (so, in this case, K and then E) until you feel ready to switch to a new word or until you drift off to sleep.

    It’s popular on Instagram and TikTok, but does “cognitive shuffling” have any basis in science?

    Where did this idea come from?

    The cognitive shuffling technique was made famous by Canada-based researcher Luc P. Beaudoin more than a decade ago, when he published a paper about how what he called “serial diverse imagining” could help with sleep.

    One of Beaudoin’s hypothetical examples involved a woman thinking of the word “blanket”, then thinking bicycle (and imagining a bicycle), buying (imagining buying shoes), banana (visualising a banana tree) and so on.

    Soon, Beaudoin writes, she moves onto the letter L, thinking about her friend Larry, the word “like” (imagining her son hugging his dog). She soon transitions to the letter A, thinking of the word “Amsterdam”:

    and she might very vaguely imagine the large hand of a sailor gesturing for another order of fries in an Amsterdam pub while a rancid accordion plays in the background.

    Sleep soon ensues. The goal, according to Beaudoin, is to think briefly about:

    a neutral or pleasant target and frequently [switch] to unrelated targets (normally every 5-15 seconds).

    Don’t try to relate one word with another or find a link between the words; resist the mind’s natural tendency toward sense-making.

    While the research into this technique is still in its infancy, the idea is grounded in science. That’s because we know from other research good sleepers tend to have different kinds of thoughts in bed to bad sleepers.

    People with insomnia are more focused on worries, problems, or noises in the environment, and are often preoccupied with not sleeping.

    Good sleepers, on the other hand, typically have dream-like, hallucinatory, less ordered thoughts before nodding off.

    Good sleepers typically have dream-like, hallucinatory, less ordered thoughts before nodding off.
    fran_kie/Shutterstock

    Sorting the pro-somnolent wheat from the insomnolent chaff

    Cognitive shuffling attempts to mimic the thinking patterns of good sleepers by simulating the dream-like and random thought patterns they generally have before drifting off to sleep.

    In particular, Beaudoin’s research describes two types of sleep-related thoughts: insomnolent (or anti-sleep) and pro-somnolent (sleep-promoting) thoughts.

    Insomnolent thoughts include things such as worrying, planning, rehearsing, and ruminating on perceived problems or failings.

    Pro-somnolent thoughts on the other hand involve thoughts that can help you fall asleep, such as dream-like imagery or having a calm, relaxed state of mind.

    Cognitive shuffling aims to distract from or interfere with insomnolent thought. It offers a calm, neutral path for your racing mind, and can reduce the stress associated with not sleeping.

    Cognitive shuffling also helps tell your brain you are ready for sleep.

    In fact, the process of “shuffling” between different thoughts is similar to the way your brain naturally drifts off to sleep. During the transition to sleep, brain activity slows. Your brain starts to generate disconnected images and fleeting scenes, known as hypnagogic hallucinations, without a conscious effort to make sense of them.

    By mimicking these scattered, disconnected, and random thought patterns, cognitive shuffling may help you transition from wakefulness to sleep.

    And the preliminary research into this is promising. Beaudoin and his team have found serial diverse imagining helps to lower arousal before sleep, improve sleep quality and reduce the effort involved in falling asleep.

    However, with only a small number of research studies, more work is needed here.

    It didn’t work. Now what?

    As with every new strategy, however, practise makes perfect. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t see an improvement straight away; these things take time.

    Stay consistent and be kind to yourself.

    And what works for some won’t work for others. Different people benefit from different types of strategies depending on how they relate to and experience stress or stressful thoughts.

    Other strategies to help create the right conditions for sleep include:

    If, despite all your best efforts, night time thoughts continue to impact your sleep or overall wellbeing, consider seeking professional help from your doctor or a trained sleep specialist.

    Melinda Jackson has received funding from the Medical Research Future Fund, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) and Dementia Australia. She a board member of the Australasian Sleep Association.

    Eleni Kavaliotis has previously received funding from an Australian government Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship. She is a member of the Australasian Sleep Association’s Insomnia and Sleep Health Council.

    – ref. What is ‘cognitive shuffling’ and does it really help you get to sleep? Two sleep scientists explain – https://theconversation.com/what-is-cognitive-shuffling-and-does-it-really-help-you-get-to-sleep-two-sleep-scientists-explain-256444

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Van Hollen, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Sanction Salvadoran Officials for Human Rights Abuses, Collusion with Trump Administration in Violation of Constitutional Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Van Hollen, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Sanction Salvadoran Officials for Human Rights Abuses, Collusion with Trump Administration in Violation of Constitutional Rights

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced new legislation in a continuation of their efforts to hold El Salvador accountable for its human rights abuses and its collusion with the Trump Administration to imprison people from the United States without due process. The Senators’ legislation would apply sanctions on Salvadoran officials and others who have engaged in international human rights violations or worked to deprive individuals residing in the United States of their rights under the U.S. Constitution.

    The legislation would additionally explicitly sanction Salvadoran President Bukele and Vice President Ulloa, as well as El Salvador’s Ministers of Foreign Relations, Defense, and Justice and Public Security, among others. In addition to its actions alongside the Trump Administration to imprison people from the United States, Bukele and his government have continued to jail and persecute innocent Salvadoran citizens, including journalists and human rights advocates such as Ruth López.

    “President Bukele and his regime are continuing to commit abhorrent human rights atrocities and eradicate due process,” said Senator Padilla. “We must hold Bukele and all responsible parties accountable for the suspension of constitutional rights and continued collusion with the Trump Administration to imprison people from the United States without due process. Imposing economic sanctions and visa restrictions on Bukele and his corrupt government is a necessary step to push El Salvador to finally uphold international human rights law and respect fundamental civil liberties.”

    “President Bukele and the Government of El Salvador are colluding with the Trump Administration, taking American taxpayer dollars to imprison people as part of a scheme to violate their constitutional rights. We must hold Bukele and his cronies accountable for these wrongful actions as well as for the gross violations of human rights they are committing in El Salvador. This legislation would do just that by placing sanctions on Bukele and those in his government who are responsible for these abuses. We must send a clear signal that these injustices are unacceptable and must end,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “Under President Bukele, tens of thousands of Salvadorans and even U.S. residents remain jammed in megaprisons without due process. President Bukele may think he has a friend in President Trump, but he should know that Americans will not tolerate his efforts to undermine the rule of law and democratic institutions—whether in El Salvador or here in the United States,” said Senator Kaine. “That’s why I’m introducing this legislation with my colleagues to sanction foreign nationals complicit in Bukele’s behavior and the Trump Administration’s illegal actions to deny due process to people living in the United States.”

    The Senators’ legislation is supported by the Latin America Working Group, the Washington Office on Latin America, Human Rights Watch, and Immigration Hub.

    Additional Background:

    • Sanctions: Imposes property-blocking and visa sanctions on President Bukele, key members of his cabinet, and other foreign persons working on behalf of the Salvadoran government that have:
      • engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights, including in connection with the ongoing “state of exception” in El Salvador;
      • engaged in the scheme, including by accepting U.S. taxpayer dollars, to deprive individuals residing in the United States of their Constitutional rights; or
      • provided material support to any person that has engaged in the above activities.
    • Termination/Snapback of Sanctions: Sanctions cannot be terminated until at least four years after the bill is enacted and unless the President certifies to Congress that the Government of El Salvador is no longer engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights and no longer engaged in the scheme, including by accepting U.S. taxpayer dollars, to deprive individuals residing in the United States of their Constitutional rights. If the President determines that either of those conditions resume, then sanctions shall be reimposed.
    • Reporting Requirements: Requires reports to Congress that provide transparency on Salvadoran officials subject to a variety of sanctions authorities, U.S. government assistance to El Salvador, bilateral written agreements between the United States and El Salvador, and compliance with U.S. laws including the Leahy Laws and the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. Also requires a report on the actions of Salvadoran officials, including President Bukele, to use cryptocurrency as a mechanism for gross corruption, graft, and sanctions evasion.
    • Blocking International Financial Assistance: Instructs the United States to use its voice and vote in international financial institutions to oppose financial assistance to the Government of El Salvador until the appropriate Presidential certification is transmitted to Congress.
    • Prohibiting U.S. Funds for El Salvador: Prohibits any U.S. funding for the Government of El Salvador until the appropriate Presidential certification is transmitted to Congress.

    “Senators Van Hollen, Kaine, and Padilla’s bill to impose sanctions on the regime of President Nayib Bukele is timely and importantly puts a spotlight on the gross violation of human rights that have occurred under President Bukele’s state of exception. Since March 2022, 85,000 people have been detained, constitutional guarantees have been suspended, and over 350 people have died while under state custody. Systemic torture and persecution are state policies. Significantly, the bill also addresses the pervasive corruption that has occurred since President Bukele took office and prevents the IMF and other international financial institutions not to lend support. Not one penny of our tax dollars should support this regime until there is an end to the human rights violations, and the rule of law, judicial independence, and government transparency are restored.  All Members of Congress should get behind this bill,” said Vicki Gass, Executive Director, Latin America Working Group.  

    “Targeted individual sanctions for gross human rights violations are a critical diplomatic tool the U.S. can use to push for change and hold authoritarian actors accountable; as El Salvador’s political and human rights crisis deepens, strong international action like this becomes essential,” said Ana María Méndez-Dardón, Director for Central America at the Washington Office on Latin America.

    “We are heartened to see Senators confronting the human rights abuses of government officials in El Salvador. This bill an important reminder that uncritical US government support to President Bukele will not last forever and a recognition that nobody should be deported to Salvadoran prisons,” said Juan Pappier, Deputy Director of the Americas division, Human Rights Watch.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Van Hollen, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Sanction Salvadoran Officials for Human Rights Abuses, Collusion with Trump Administration in Violation of Constitutional Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Van Hollen, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Sanction Salvadoran Officials for Human Rights Abuses, Collusion with Trump Administration in Violation of Constitutional Rights

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced new legislation in a continuation of their efforts to hold El Salvador accountable for its human rights abuses and its collusion with the Trump Administration to imprison people from the United States without due process. The Senators’ legislation would apply sanctions on Salvadoran officials and others who have engaged in international human rights violations or worked to deprive individuals residing in the United States of their rights under the U.S. Constitution.

    The legislation would additionally explicitly sanction Salvadoran President Bukele and Vice President Ulloa, as well as El Salvador’s Ministers of Foreign Relations, Defense, and Justice and Public Security, among others. In addition to its actions alongside the Trump Administration to imprison people from the United States, Bukele and his government have continued to jail and persecute innocent Salvadoran citizens, including journalists and human rights advocates such as Ruth López.

    “President Bukele and his regime are continuing to commit abhorrent human rights atrocities and eradicate due process,” said Senator Padilla. “We must hold Bukele and all responsible parties accountable for the suspension of constitutional rights and continued collusion with the Trump Administration to imprison people from the United States without due process. Imposing economic sanctions and visa restrictions on Bukele and his corrupt government is a necessary step to push El Salvador to finally uphold international human rights law and respect fundamental civil liberties.”

    “President Bukele and the Government of El Salvador are colluding with the Trump Administration, taking American taxpayer dollars to imprison people as part of a scheme to violate their constitutional rights. We must hold Bukele and his cronies accountable for these wrongful actions as well as for the gross violations of human rights they are committing in El Salvador. This legislation would do just that by placing sanctions on Bukele and those in his government who are responsible for these abuses. We must send a clear signal that these injustices are unacceptable and must end,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “Under President Bukele, tens of thousands of Salvadorans and even U.S. residents remain jammed in megaprisons without due process. President Bukele may think he has a friend in President Trump, but he should know that Americans will not tolerate his efforts to undermine the rule of law and democratic institutions—whether in El Salvador or here in the United States,” said Senator Kaine. “That’s why I’m introducing this legislation with my colleagues to sanction foreign nationals complicit in Bukele’s behavior and the Trump Administration’s illegal actions to deny due process to people living in the United States.”

    The Senators’ legislation is supported by the Latin America Working Group, the Washington Office on Latin America, Human Rights Watch, and Immigration Hub.

    Additional Background:

    • Sanctions: Imposes property-blocking and visa sanctions on President Bukele, key members of his cabinet, and other foreign persons working on behalf of the Salvadoran government that have:
      • engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights, including in connection with the ongoing “state of exception” in El Salvador;
      • engaged in the scheme, including by accepting U.S. taxpayer dollars, to deprive individuals residing in the United States of their Constitutional rights; or
      • provided material support to any person that has engaged in the above activities.
    • Termination/Snapback of Sanctions: Sanctions cannot be terminated until at least four years after the bill is enacted and unless the President certifies to Congress that the Government of El Salvador is no longer engaged in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights and no longer engaged in the scheme, including by accepting U.S. taxpayer dollars, to deprive individuals residing in the United States of their Constitutional rights. If the President determines that either of those conditions resume, then sanctions shall be reimposed.
    • Reporting Requirements: Requires reports to Congress that provide transparency on Salvadoran officials subject to a variety of sanctions authorities, U.S. government assistance to El Salvador, bilateral written agreements between the United States and El Salvador, and compliance with U.S. laws including the Leahy Laws and the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. Also requires a report on the actions of Salvadoran officials, including President Bukele, to use cryptocurrency as a mechanism for gross corruption, graft, and sanctions evasion.
    • Blocking International Financial Assistance: Instructs the United States to use its voice and vote in international financial institutions to oppose financial assistance to the Government of El Salvador until the appropriate Presidential certification is transmitted to Congress.
    • Prohibiting U.S. Funds for El Salvador: Prohibits any U.S. funding for the Government of El Salvador until the appropriate Presidential certification is transmitted to Congress.

    “Senators Van Hollen, Kaine, and Padilla’s bill to impose sanctions on the regime of President Nayib Bukele is timely and importantly puts a spotlight on the gross violation of human rights that have occurred under President Bukele’s state of exception. Since March 2022, 85,000 people have been detained, constitutional guarantees have been suspended, and over 350 people have died while under state custody. Systemic torture and persecution are state policies. Significantly, the bill also addresses the pervasive corruption that has occurred since President Bukele took office and prevents the IMF and other international financial institutions not to lend support. Not one penny of our tax dollars should support this regime until there is an end to the human rights violations, and the rule of law, judicial independence, and government transparency are restored.  All Members of Congress should get behind this bill,” said Vicki Gass, Executive Director, Latin America Working Group.  

    “Targeted individual sanctions for gross human rights violations are a critical diplomatic tool the U.S. can use to push for change and hold authoritarian actors accountable; as El Salvador’s political and human rights crisis deepens, strong international action like this becomes essential,” said Ana María Méndez-Dardón, Director for Central America at the Washington Office on Latin America.

    “We are heartened to see Senators confronting the human rights abuses of government officials in El Salvador. This bill an important reminder that uncritical US government support to President Bukele will not last forever and a recognition that nobody should be deported to Salvadoran prisons,” said Juan Pappier, Deputy Director of the Americas division, Human Rights Watch.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s cultural heritage workshops boost rural revitalization, employment

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

    BEIJING, June 16 — China’s intangible cultural heritage workshops are proving a powerful force for rural revitalization, with over 11,000 such workshops preserving traditional crafts, creating jobs and boosting local economies, official data shows.

    These workshops are distributed across 2,005 county-level regions, including 670 formerly impoverished counties and 135 key counties designated to receive rural revitalization assistance, and have generated employment for more than 1.2 million people in related industries.

    Notably, over 4,300 workshops operate directly in villages, providing flexible work arrangements particularly suited to elderly residents, women, and people with disabilities through home-based production and daily wage models.

    The Chinese government has actively promoted the role of intangible cultural heritage in cultural preservation and economic development. In December 2021, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and other central government departments issued a policy document specifically guiding the establishment and operation of these workshops, emphasizing talent cultivation, job creation and industrial support.

    At the local level, 18 provinces have introduced policies to certify and manage these workshops, offering funding, marketing assistance and resource coordination.

    In Zhejiang Province, for example, the Xiaoshan district has paired workshops with villages. The provincial-level Xiaoshan pickled radish intangible cultural heritage workshop has connected over 40,000 farmers through contract-based production, generating an output value of 300 million yuan (about 42 million U.S. dollars) in 2024.

    As of March this year, the number of national-level intangible cultural heritage inheritors has grown to nearly 4,000.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China urges US to stop coercing other countries into taking sides

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

    China has always supported Latin American and Caribbean countries, including Panama, in upholding their independence and autonomy and opposing hegemony, bullying and foreign interference, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday.

    Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks in response to reports that the U.S. Embassy in Panama stated the United States will work with Panama to install seven new communications towers with U.S. technology, replacing Chinese company Huawei’s equipment. Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has urged the U.S. embassy to refrain from making public declarations regarding decisions made solely by the Panamanian government.

    Addressing a regular press briefing, Guo said that the United States has long conducted surveillance and cyberattacks in Latin America and the Caribbean, causing adverse effects across the Western Hemisphere and leaving countries in the Americas feeling insecure.

    He added that while carrying out friendly cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries, China has always adhered to the principles of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, openness, inclusiveness and win-win collaboration. “China never seeks spheres of influence, nor does it engage in geopolitical competition, let alone coerce other countries into taking sides,” the spokesperson said.

    Noting that Latin America and the Caribbean are not anyone’s backyard, Guo urged the United States to stop politicizing economic, trade, and scientific and technological issues, stop interfering in other countries’ internal affairs and undermining their sovereignty and independence, stop coercing other countries into taking sides or restricting cooperation with China, and instead focus on promoting regional peace, stability, development and prosperity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese car brands double sales in Spain, gaining over 10% market share

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

    Chinese car brands accounted for 10.12 percent of total vehicle registrations in Spain during the first five months of 2025. The figure more than doubled the 23,235 units registered in the same period last year, the Spanish Association of Automobile and Truck Manufacturers (ANFAC) announced on Monday.

    Felix Garcia, ANFAC’s director of communications and marketing, described the May sales figures as “very positive.” “More than 112,000 units sold and the growth of over 18 percent show that it was the best May since 2019, before the pandemic began,” he said in a statement.

    ANFAC’s data includes not only Chinese carmakers such as Chery and BYD, but also European brands owned by Chinese automotive groups, such as Volvo under the Geely group and MG under SAIC Motor.

    According to a recent survey conducted by online car dealer Coches.net and the Spanish vehicle distributors’ association Ganvam, seven out of ten Spaniards expressed a favorable opinion of Chinese brand cars, saying they would consider buying one.

    BYD, the world’s largest plug-in car manufacturer, sold 7,788 units in Spain by the end of May, marking a dramatic rise from just 54 units sold two years ago. In May, BYD overtook Tesla as the best-selling electric car brand in the country.

    The rising popularity of Chinese vehicles aligns with the broader growth in electrified vehicle sales, including pure electric and plug-in hybrids, which have taken 20 percent of the Spanish market, according to ANFAC.

    “Pure electric vehicles went up to 8 percent, while other electrified vehicles now exceed 11 percent. Together, they account for around 19 percent of the market share. This is key to rejuvenating the country’s Motor Vehicle Fleet and reducing emissions,” Garcia added.

    The Spanish government’s MOVES incentive program also plays a role in encouraging electric vehicle purchases, offering subsidies of up to 7,000 euros for buyers. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US stocks rebound as investors brush off Middle East tensions

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

    U.S. stocks ended higher on Monday, recovering from Friday’s sharp losses as investors’ concerns over ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran eased somehow.

    Escalation of conflicts between Iran and Israel had briefly rattled markets — oil prices surged, the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) spiked, and gold prices rose as investors sought safe havens. However, Monday’s action suggested confidence remained intact. High-yield credit spreads widened by just 2 basis points.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 317.30 points, or 0.75 percent, to 42,515.09. The S&P 500 added 56.14 points, or 0.94 percent, to 6,033.11. The Nasdaq Composite Index increased by 294.39 points, or 1.52 percent, to 19,701.21.

    Seven of the 11 primary S&P 500 sectors ended in green, with communication services and technology leading the gainers by adding 1.53 percent and 1.52 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, utilities and health led the laggards by losing 0.50 percent and 0.40 percent, respectively.

    Market history supports the idea that geopolitical shocks are often short-lived in their market impact. According to Deutsche Bank analysts Parag Thatte and Binky Chadha, the S&P 500 typically drops around 6 percent in the three weeks following a geopolitical event, but usually recovers those losses in the next three weeks.

    Deutsche Bank’s Henry Allen added in a Monday note that geopolitical events tend to have lasting effects on equities only when they disrupt the real economy, either by slowing growth or driving inflation. So far, investors seem to be betting that neither scenario is likely in the near term.

    Despite lingering geopolitical concerns, historically low equity positioning and resilient fundamentals may be keeping a broader sell-off at bay, allowing risk appetite to return for now. “Focus will remain on geopolitical headlines, but as long as the conflict stays limited between Israel and Iran, it’s unlikely to materially impact the markets,” said Tom Essaye at the Sevens Report.

    Tesla rose more than 1 percent on Monday, while Meta Platforms climbed 2.9 percent, helping power the broader market. Palantir, often seen as a beneficiary of rising geopolitical instability due to its defense and AI ties, rose near 3 percent.

    The rising move comes ahead of a key week for monetary policy. Investors digested a weaker-than-expected manufacturing survey released Monday morning by the New York Fed, adding to signs of slowing momentum in the industrial sector. Still, the data did little to shift expectations ahead of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision on Wednesday.

    According to CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, futures markets are pricing in a 100 percent chance that the Fed will hold rates steady, despite renewed pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has called on Fed Chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates.

    However, elevated oil prices stemming from the conflict in the Middle East are expected to keep inflation risks on the Fed’s radar and reduce the likelihood of rate cuts in the near term. “Markets got a reminder that tariffs aren’t the only potential source of market volatility,” said Chris Larkin at E*Trade from Morgan Stanley. “Right now, markets are signaling they expect the situation in the Middle East will remain contained, but any surprises could have an oversized impact on sentiment.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eugene Man Accused of Damaging Federal Government Property

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EUGENE, Ore.— Kielan Robert Eugene Fitzsimonds, 33, of Eugene has been charged with willful depredation of government property for breaking the window of a federal government vehicle.

    According to court documents, on June 8, 2025, Fitzsimonds is alleged to have intentionally thrown rocks at a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) vehicle parked at a federal building in Eugene. The rocks shattered the vehicle’s back window and dented its trunk and hood.

    On June 10, 2025, a federal agent discovered the damaged vehicle and found a large rock in the back seat. Investigators obtained surveillance footage from the building which showed a man, later identified as Fitzsimonds, attempting to enter the building and throwing objects at vehicles in the parking lot.

    Fitzsimonds made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

    A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Kazakhstan to boost ties for regional, global peace, development

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hold talks at the presidential palace in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 16, 2025. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Monday that China stands ready to work with Kazakhstan to contribute more to regional and world peace and development with stability and positive energy of bilateral ties.

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ahead of the second China-Central Asia Summit.

    Xi pointed out that China-Kazakhstan relations have withstood the test of international changes and have consistently maintained a high level of development. This is due to the geographical proximity and the long-standing friendship between the two peoples, as well as the inevitable choice for the two countries to pursue development together, he said.

    In recent years under joint planning of the two leaders, Xi said, the China-Kazakhstan community with a shared future has become more substantial and richer in content, with tangible and people-centered outcomes continuously emerging, effectively enhancing the sense of fulfillment among the two peoples.

    China has always viewed and developed its relationship with Kazakhstan from a strategic and long-term perspective, and is willing to work together with Kazakhstan to unswervingly consolidate the friendship between the two countries, he said.

    Xi emphasized that both China and Kazakhstan are at crucial stages of their respective development and revitalization, and the two countries should work together to advance comprehensive cooperation.

    First, high-level strategic mutual trust should guide the development of bilateral relations, Xi said, urging both countries to continue to support each other on issues involving their core interests and major concerns, to promote synergy of their development strategies, to be strong supporters of each other amid the turbulent international situation, and to be helpful partners in their respective development and revitalization.

    Second, he said, high-quality Belt and Road cooperation should be used to improve bilateral cooperation. Efforts should be made to consolidate strengths of traditional cooperation in trade, investment and energy, advance the construction of cross-border railway projects and the upgrading of port infrastructure, promote connectivity, high-tech cooperation as well as green and sustainable development, Xi said.

    Third, he said, comprehensive security cooperation should be carried out to safeguard peace and stability of the two countries. This includes expanding law enforcement and defense exchanges, jointly combating terrorism, separatism and extremism, and deepening cooperation in emergency management as well as disaster prevention and mitigation, Xi said.

    Fourth, Xi noted, diversified people-to-people exchanges should be carried out to solidify the foundation of China-Kazakhstan friendship. He also called for organizing well the China tourism year in Kazakhstan and encouraging more exchanges among youth, media and think tanks as well as at the local level.

    Xi pointed out that in the face of the international situation intertwined with changes and chaos, China and Kazakhstan should firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order underpinned by international law, practice true multilateralism, and resolutely safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

    China commends Kazakhstan for the extensive preparatory work it has done for the second China-Central Asia Summit, and believes that this meeting will write a new chapter in cooperation between China and Central Asia, Xi said.

    Meanwhile, as the rotating presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), China is willing to work with all member states to take this year’s Tianjin summit as an opportunity to strengthen the organization and demonstrate new development, new breakthroughs and new looks.

    For his part, Tokayev said that China is a friendly neighbor, close friend and reliable partner of Kazakhstan.

    The Kazakhstan-China permanent comprehensive strategic partnership is entering a new golden age, driving the sustainable economic and social development of both countries, benefiting the two peoples, and serving as a model of relations between countries, he said.

    Noting that Kazakhstan and China share a strong political will to enhance cooperation, Tokayev said the two countries have always supported each other on issues concerning their core interests, such as sovereignty and security, regardless of changes in the international landscape.

    Under the wise leadership of President Xi, great achievements have been made in the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics for a new era, he said.

    Kazakhstan is sincerely glad for these achievements and firmly believes that China will continue to achieve greater development accomplishments, Tokayev said, adding that Kazakhstan is willing to deepen strategic mutual trust and all-round mutually beneficial cooperation with China and elevate bilateral relations to a new level.

    The two sides should jointly advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, expand cooperation in fields such as trade, investment, industry, agriculture, energy and transportation, and strengthen people-to-people exchanges in culture, education, sports and tourism, he added.

    The Kazakh side highly appreciates and actively supports China’s commitment and efforts to safeguard international fairness and justice, and is ready to continue close cooperation and mutual support with China within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the SCO, BRICS, the China-Central Asia mechanism, and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia, so as to push forward the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction.

    Following the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the exchange of more than 10 bilateral cooperation documents covering areas such as trade, investment, science and technology, customs, tourism, and media. 

    1   2   3   4   5   >  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New research shows Australians see influencers as major sources of misinformation

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sora Park, Professor of Communication, News & Media Research Centre, University of Canberra

    As consumption of traditional news continues to fall, audiences are turning to social media personalities and influencers for their information. These figures are increasingly shaping public debates.

    But Australian news audiences are sceptical. More Australians believe social media influencers are a major misinformation threat than other sources, according to new research.

    The Digital News Report: Australia 2025, released today, also reveals general news avoidance remains high, with 69% of people saying they try not to engage with it. This is particularly the case among women, young people and those in regional areas.

    So if people don’t want to engage with traditional news, but are suspicious of influencers, how can we ensure they get reliable information when they need it? There are some solutions.

    Suspicious of influencers

    The Digital News Report: Australia is part of a global annual survey of digital news consumption in 48 countries, commissioned by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford.

    The survey was conducted by YouGov in January and February 2025. The data are weighted for age, gender and region. Education and political quotas were also applied.

    For the 11th iteration of this study in Australia, we surveyed 2,006 online Australian adults. We asked people about sources and platforms they believe to be major misinformation threats.

    More than half of participants said online influencers/personalities are the major risk (57%), followed by activists (51%), foreign governments (49%), Australian political actors (48%), and the news media (43%).

    This is in stark contrast to the United States, where national politicians are seen as posing the biggest threat of misleading information (57%) and is ten percentage points higher than the global average of 42 countries in the survey (47%).

    Navigating truth online

    The report also finds Australians continue to be the most concerned about what is real or fake online, with 74% saying they are worried about it.

    This is especially true on social media, where Australians see Facebook (59%) and TikTok (57%) as the two platforms that are the biggest threat of spreading misinformation.

    Given the proportion of people using social media as their main source of news has increased (26%, up eight percentage points since 2016) and TikTok is the fastest growing social media platform for news (14%, up 13 percentage points since 2020), concern about misinformation will likely remain an issue in Australia.

    This problem is not necessarily with the platform itself, but who audiences pay attention to when they are on it.

    On TikTok, Australians are more likely to turn to information shared by influencers, particularly younger audiences.

    Less or more intervention?

    Deciding what is true or fake online is a complex issue. This was highlighted during the political debate over the federal government’s controversial Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation Bill, which was eventually withdrawn late last year.

    Much hinged on questions around who gets to decide what the truth is, and who might be responsible for tackling it. Is it the job of digital platforms to remove harmful and misleading content? Or do audiences need more media literacy education? Or both?

    As debate over how to reduce harm while balancing free speech continues, we asked people about the removal of harmful and offensive social media content.

    One third (33%) say social media and video networks like TikTok and YouTube are not removing enough harmful or offensive content.

    Fewer people (21%) think platforms are removing too much.

    This indicates Australians want more action from social media companies.

    Boosting media literacy

    The data also tell us improving news literacy across the community may be key to tackling the problem.

    We asked people what they do when they come across suspicious information. Thirty-nine percent said they fact-check using trusted news sources, official websites and search engines.

    But there were important differences in fact-checking behaviours between those who had received some kind of news literacy education and those who had not.

    People who had received training about how the news works were much more likely to use a reputable news source or go to an official website to verify information.

    However, few people have had such education, with only 24% of those surveyed saying they had received some.

    The data show not only are people with news literacy education more likely to fact-check, they also avoid news less, have higher interest in it, are more likely to trust the news, and more inclined to pay for it.

    This suggests increasing news literacy can help users navigate the complex online environment, and could also have both civic and economic benefits.

    While there is no single solution to reducing misinformation online, this year’s data points to two key areas for further action: increasing access to media literacy training for all Australians, and compelling digital platforms to remove more misleading and harmful content.

    Sora Park receives funding from the Australian Research Council, SBS, Creative Australia and Boundless Earth.

    Ashleigh Haw has received funding from the Australian National University’s Herbert and Valmae Freilich Project for the Study of Bigotry, and The Australian Sociological Association (TASA).

    Caroline Fisher has received funding from Australian Research Council, Google News Initiative, the Australian Communication and Media Authority, former Dept of Communication and Infrastructure, and Judith Neilsen Institute for Journalism and Ideas.

    Kieran McGuinness has received funding from Google News Initiative and the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

    – ref. New research shows Australians see influencers as major sources of misinformation – https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-australians-see-influencers-as-major-sources-of-misinformation-257803

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Whitehouse, Heinrich Statement on Trump Firing NRC Commissioner Hanson

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — After Trump fired Commissioner and former Chair Chris Hanson from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), an independent agency created by Congress that is charged with ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Energy and Water Development Subcommittee; Senator Whitehouse (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee; and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, issued the following statement.  The President can only remove Commissioners for cause—which is restricted to inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office—and the Trump Administration has provided no evidence of wrongdoing nor cited any cause in its termination of Commissioner Hanson.

    “Trump’s lawlessness threatens the Commission’s ability to ensure that nuclear power plants and nuclear materials are safe and free from political interference. In removing NRC Commissioner Hanson, Trump has overstepped his authority, jeopardizing U.S. nuclear leadership at a critical time. It’s hard to understand this when so much nuclear reform progress has been bipartisan.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Green’s fiscal strategy opportunity to debate new thinking on public investment – Better Taxes

    Source: Better Taxes for a Better Future

    The Better Taxes for a Better Future campaign welcomes the recognition in the Green Party’s Fiscal Strategy of the importance of government capability in building an economy and society that delivers what our communities need. Its fiscal strategy is a significant contribution towards moving thinking on from the fiscal conservatism and market fundamentalism that has dominated the conversation but has not delivered.

    “For the last 40 – 50 years governments in New Zealand have underinvested in public infrastructure and services which would support the kind of economic and social development that would enable our communities to thrive. We need to promote debate about different ways of doing things, about ‘economics as if people mattered’,” says Glenn Barclay, campaign spokesperson.

    “The Green’s discussion document is a serious starting point for that conversation.  We strongly support the recognition of the wider value of public expenditure to the economy. We need to be able to have a mature debate about growing tax revenue and the use of borrowing as sound economic strategies that are open to us.”

    “We have relatively low levels of public debt compared with other OECD countries – in 2024 the IMF ranked us as having the 6th lowest net debt as a proportion of GDP among advanced economies – and room to make wise decisions about borrowing more to invest in public infrastructure that will help to build a productive economy into the future. Government investment now would also help us get out of the current recession and relieve the pressure people are experiencing,” says Glenn Barclay.

    “But we cannot rely solely on debt to build government capability. We need to grow our tax revenue to provide the vital public services upon which people and the economy rely, and to alleviate poverty and inequality. The revenue must be raised in a way that ensures those who can afford to contribute more to the common good do, while addressing the impact of tax on the least well off.”

    “As the Green’s discussion document points out, underinvestment now in infrastructure, in our people and in responding to climate change, risks much more significant costs to address these challenges in the future. Underinvestment and deteriorating services may well create a greater risk than a moderate increase in the government’s debt level,” says Glenn Barclay.

    “Successive governments have made choices about fiscal management that have been driven by rigid thinking. That thinking has failed to support a productive economy that meets the needs of our people now and into the future. It is time that we made better choices, for a better future for New Zealanders.”

    The Better Taxes for a Better Future Campaign is a coalition of over 20 organisations led by Tax Justice Aotearoa.

    We believe that tax reform is the only solution to the current challenges facing Aotearoa NZ.  We need the tax system to:

    be transparent
    raise more revenue to enable us address the challenges we face
    make sure people who have more to contribute make that contribution: that we gather more revenue from wealth, gains from wealth, all forms of income, and corporates
    make greater use of fair taxes to promote good health and environmental health
    address the tax impact on the least well off in our society.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Swiss Government Fails to Act on “Nagorno-Karabakh Peace Forum” – CSI

    Source: Christian Solidarity International (CSI)

    CSI supports the Swiss sponsored peace negotiations between the Azerbaijani Government and representatives of the forcibly displaced Armenian Christian population of Nagorno Karabakh as required by the Swiss parliament. However, the Council of Ministers angered Swiss parliamentarians by tacitly accepting Azerbaijan’s ethno-religious cleansing of Nagorno Karabakh and refusing to communicate with representatives of the expelled population.

    Responding to questions by Lower House member Erich Vontobel (EDU), the Swiss Federal Council, headed this year by Karin Keller-Suter, stated on June 10 that “the Foreign Ministry is currently unable to plan the organization of a forum” as mandated by Parliamentary Motion 24.4259. The government cited Azerbaijan’s refusal to acknowledge the existence of the ethnically and religiously cleansed Nagorno-Karabakh and its rejection of a peace forum aimed at enabling the return of the 120,000 forcibly displaced Armenian Christians. Thus, the government made future Swiss monitoring and mediation efforts contingent on the consent of the very regime responsible for the expulsion.

    The response sparked strong criticism in Parliament. Lawmakers had explicitly tasked the government with “enabling open dialogue between Azerbaijan and representatives of the Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians” to negotiate conditions for the safe return of the displaced. The Federal Council is ignoring the core of Parliament’s mandate: giving those affected a voice in the peace process.

    At the end of May, 19 members of the Swiss Parliament established the cross-party Committee “Swiss Peace Initiative for Nagorno-Karabakh” for the purpose of supporting the Swiss government’s mandate to initiate a peace forum between Azerbaijan and the representatives of the displaces population of Nagorno Karabakh with a view to creating conditions for their safe an dignified return.

    Committee Co-Chair Stefan Müller Altermatt (Mitte) declared: The Council of Ministers must not be satisfied with a ‘no’ from Baku. Switzerland must now demonstrate that it is serious about its role as a neutral mediator.” Müller-Altermatt reminded the Swiss Foreign Ministry that Nagorno Karabakh remains on the agenda of the Organization for Security and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE) and offers proven mechanisms to support such a forum at the international level – mechanisms that it should actively use.

    The displacement of 120,000 Karabakh Armenians in autumn 2023 represents a clear violation of international humanitarian law. “Switzerland, as the depositary state of the Geneva Conventions, cannot turn a blind eye when an entire people is expelled from their homeland. Otherwise, we lose our credibility,” warns Committee Co-Chair Erich Vontobel, demanding: “The Federal Council must fulfil its parliamentary mandate!”

    “CSI cannot accept that a state that has committed religio-ethnic cleansing can place a veto on Switzerland or any other state engaging in peaceful dialogue with representatives of a forcibly displaced community”, stated CSI’s International President Dr. John Eibner. He furthermore pledged that CSI will continue to press for Azerbaijan to engage in constructive dialogue with representatives of the expelled Armenian Christian population about their return to Nagorno Karabakh with fundamental human rights guaranteed.

    Christian Solidarity International (CSI) is a Christian human rights organization promoting religious liberty and human dignity.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: DAWN Statement on Israel’s Escalating Attacks on Iran and U.S. Citizens Unable To Leave Israel and Iran

    Source: DAWN

    Washington, D.C. June 16, 2025 – In response to Israel’s escalating attacks on Iranian infrastructure and hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens unable to leave Israel and Iran, DAWN issued the following statements:

    “Israel’s targeted attacks against Iranian media and government infrastructure makes clear that this is war for regime change and Iran’s nuclear enrichment capability is just the pretext,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, DAWN’s Executive Director. 

    “President Trump campaigned on a promise not to get us entangled in another endless regime change war, but he’s now allowing Israel and its Washington backers to dictate the agenda for a dangerous, new war with Iran.”

    “The U.S. government has a moral and legal obligation to protect the hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens unable to leave Israel and Iran,” said Raed Jarrar, DAWN’s Advocacy Director. “The Trump administration should act immediately to evacuate all U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, from Israel and Iran before the situation worsens.”

    “The U.S. should immediately withdraw troops, military assets, and bases from the Middle East because their continued presence is not only a danger to U.S. forces there but to the civilians anywhere near them,” said Michael Schaeffer Omer-Man, Israel-Palestine Director at DAWN. “Maintaining a large military presence in the region unwisely turns them into unnecessary, opportunistic targets.”

    DAWN is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. Please refer to the organization’s name as “DAWN”.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Trump’s Truth Social enters crypto ETF race – deVere Group urges caution

    Source: deVere Group

    June 16 2025 – Donald Trump’s Truth Social has filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission to launch a dual Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF), sparking concern from one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory organizations.

    The proposed fund, the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF (ticker: B.T.), sponsored by Yorkville America Digital, LLC, would be the first attempt by a politically affiliated platform to offer a spot ETF with combined exposure to both Bitcoin and Ethereum.

    deVere Group is issuing a strong warning to investors to exercise caution and seek independent financial advice before engaging with this product.

    Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, comments: “We’re long-term advocates of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and digital assets.

    “We believe they are a crucial component of modern portfolios. But this filing is not just another step forward for crypto adoption, it’s an entry point that raises serious questions about alignment, influence, and investor risk.

    “When a politically connected media platform attempts to issue a financial product tied to volatile, high-profile assets, investors must scrutinize everything from the structure to the motive.”

    deVere warns that the convergence of politics and finance in this way could create an illusion of safety or legitimacy, particularly for retail investors.

    “Being SEC-filed doesn’t automatically mean a product is in an investor’s best interests,” says the deVere CEO.

    “It doesn’t insulate against poor governance or conflicts of interest. These are the considerations investors need to weigh carefully, with professional guidance.”

    The renewed appetite for crypto exposure is intensifying, especially following the previous approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs.

    The dual-asset proposal from Truth Social arrives at a moment of renewed enthusiasm.

    deVere Group continues to support the development of well-regulated digital asset investment vehicles and encourages innovation that promotes access, security, and transparency.

    “This fund filing will generate excitement. But excitement is not a strategy,” Nigel Green adds.

    “We urge investors: ask the hard questions, understand the mechanics, and consult advisors who are not part of the hype cycle.”

    deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Modernising Early Childhood Education funding

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Funding Review to ensure the funding system is simple, fair, and gets value for money. 
    Mr Seymour has established an ECE Funding Review Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG), chaired by Linda Meade to carry out this review. It will report on it’s findings this time next year. 
    “No money is being taken away and any findings by the MAG will be at least financially neutral,” Mr Seymour says.
    “ECE funding should be used effectively to keep costs for families down. Vote Education spends approximately $2.7 billion on ECE. We need to make sure this funding is going as far as it can and prioritising the right things.
    “The MAG members bring a range of early learning and business expertise which will be key to the review.”
    The group will be chaired by Linda Meade who has a mixture of economics and real experience in the sector. She is the perfect chair for this review. 
    “The ECE funding system should provide the best return on investment for taxpayers. This means providing families with accessible and affordable services which facilitate parents returning to the work force and give kids a great start in life,” Mr Seymour says.
    “There is huge demand for ECEs from families across New Zealand, however numbers show supply isn’t keeping up. That is why we are committed to making changes which will allow the industry to expand and provide more high-quality services for families and their children. 
    “The funding system is too complicated. It confuses families, providers struggle to forecast financial sustainability, and parents take time off work when they can’t access care. 
    “We want to be certain that taxpayer money is being used effectively. For example, we don’t know if the ‘one size fits all’ funding approach in ECE works for parents who don’t have traditional working arrangements or consistent patterns of child attendance. These parents are often the most disadvantaged.  
    “The review will be wide ranging, though some things are excluded. The policy benefits of 20 Hours ECE will and FamilyBoost will be preserved. Please find the review terms of reference attached.   
    “The review will compliment other work we are doing in the ECE sector. Changes made by the ECE Sector Review to modernise and simplify ECE are also underway. By the end of next year ECE providers will also be governed by a regulatory system which ensures regulations are focused on what matters, child safety. 
    “In the meantime, recent amendments to the pay parity opt-in scheme aim to provide some cost relief to ECE services.”
    Notes to editors: 
    Linda Meade (Chair): Brings a deep understanding of social sector infrastructure, particularly in Early Childhood Education as a co-founder of a family owned ECE centre since 2008. She brings expertise in investment strategy, governance and funding system design, developed through her work experience in New Zealand and overseas. Linda is a co-owner of Daisies Early Education & Care Centre and is the Managing Director of Kalimena Advisory, which she founded following almost three decades working at PwC and Deloitte, where she was the lead partner in New Zealand for Deloitte Access Economics.
    Simon Laube: Provides extensive knowledge of the early learning sector and brings skills and expertise in policy development, government engagement, and sector advocacy. He is the Chief Executive of the Early Childhood Council (ECC), a membership organisation of more than 1,500 ECE centres across New Zealand.
    Melissa Glew: Offers skills in strategic planning, property oversight, and resource optimisation, and brings understanding of financial and operational management in the ECE sector. She is the Chief Financial Officer at the Auckland Kindergarten Association, which educates approximately 10,000 children annually across 108 kindergartens and 4 KiNZ centres.
    Kelly Seaburg: Provides strong understanding of ECE and literacy, with skills in centre leadership and educational resource development. She is currently Director of New Shoots Children’s Centre (Sunnynook and Miniland) and is a member of the Ministry of Education’s Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC).
    Dr. Kane Meissel: Brings in-depth knowledge of educational research, with much of his work focusing on improving educational experiences from early childhood into early adulthood. He has made significant contributions to research in these areas. He is an Associate Professor in educational psychology at the University of Auckland, holding a Ph.D. in the same field.
    Dr. Michael Fletcher: Brings skills in the design and application of social policy and welfare systems, specifically in economic analysis, policy advice, and research on family and employment issues. He is an Adjunct Research Fellow in the School of Government, Victoria University of Wellington, has previously been a special advisor for the Welfare Expert Advisory Group and worked as a policy advisor for the Ministry of Social Development.
    Kylie Eagle: Brings extensive experience in business, people and performance, and communication. She is currently the Chief People Officer at Fletcher Building.
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The current state of housing in Aotearoa New Zealand – Stats NZ media release and report: Housing in Aotearoa New Zealand: 2025

    The current state of housing in Aotearoa New Zealand – media release

    17 June 2025

    Housing in New Zealand’s cities is changing, with an increase in housing density, and more multi-unit homes. Home ownership has increased, however housing affordability is still an issue for many households, according to a report released by Stats NZ today.

    Housing in Aotearoa New Zealand: 2025 brings together information from official and government administrative statistics to describe how housing intersects with people. It is an update of Housing in Aotearoa: 2020 and has updates to time series and new data sources, including aspects of housing not previously covered.

    In the June 2024 year, the average annual housing costs for a New Zealand household increased 31 percent, compared with the June 2020 year, while average disposable income increased 24 percent over the same period.

    Visit our website to read this news story and report:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expands departure tax refund policy to more regions

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

    BEIJING, June 16 — China will roll out its departure tax refund policy in Dalian, a coastal city in northeast China, and in Hubei Province in central China from July 1, the Ministry of Finance said on Monday.

    The policy allows overseas tourists to claim back value-added tax on eligible purchases made at designated tax refund stores before leaving China. Eligible regions can adopt the policy after filing with relevant government organs.

    China began implementing the departure tax refund policy for overseas travelers in 2015. Since then, the scale of departure tax refunds has grown year by year, benefiting an increasing number of overseas travelers.

    On April 27 this year, the country introduced a package of measures to optimize the policy, including measures lowering the minimum purchase threshold for refunds, raising the cash refund ceiling, expanding the network of participating stores, and broadening the range of products covered.

    The country is also promoting a refund-upon-purchase service model, allowing eligible tourists to receive tax refunds instantly at retail outlets rather than waiting until they leave the country.

    Official data shows that between April 27 and May 26, the number of departure tax refund transactions processed by the country’s tax authorities jumped 116 percent year on year, and sales at tax refund stores climbed 56 percent.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gordon Wilson Flats’ heritage protection goneburger

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The derelict and unsafe Gordon Wilson Flats in Wellington will lose its protected heritage status and become eligible for demolition through an amendment to the Resource Management Act (RMA) in the coming weeks, RMA Reform and Housing Minister Chris Bishop says.

    “The Gordon Wilson Flats were used as social housing until 2012, when an engineer’s report showed the building was so unsafe that large slabs of the concrete exterior could come off in an earthquake or even a strong wind. The building has sat vacant since then, becoming more dangerous and more of an eyesore every year,” Mr Bishop says.

    “The Gordon Wilson Flats are currently listed as heritage protected in the Wellington City District Plan, making it nearly impossible for anyone to get a resource consent to demolish them or alter them.

    “There has been attempt after attempt to deal with the Gordon Wilson Flats since 2012, all of which have failed. The Flats sit as an ugly scar on the Wellington skyline, emblematic of a failed planning system that prioritises preservation of heritage, no matter the economic cost.

    “Cities shouldn’t be museums. The Wellington City Council wants the Gordon Wilson flats demolished, the University (the current owner) wants them demolished, and the people of Wellington want them demolished too.

    “The Government is not prepared to let the situation continue any longer. 

    “Cabinet has agreed to enable the demolition of Gordon Wilson Flats by amending the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill, which has recently been reported back to Parliament. 

    “The amendment will remove the Flats’ protected heritage status and will make its demolition a permitted activity under the RMA. This means the building can finally be demolished, without a resource consent.

    “The amendments will not apply to any other heritage-protected buildings around the country. The Gordon Wilson Flats have been singled out because the building is owned by a public institution – Victoria University – and because that owner, the council and the community all want it gone. 

    “I know many Wellingtonians will be relieved to know the Gordon Wilson Flats’ days of heritage protection are numbered, and that it is unlikely to mar our beautiful city’s skyline for too much longer.

    The Amendment Paper to the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill will be introduced during the Bill’s Committee of the Whole House stage, between its second and third readings. The Bill is expected to pass into law in the middle of 2025.

    “The Bill also contains wider amendments to allow councils to de-list heritage buildings in their district plans faster and more easily. The wider issue of heritage protection is also being actively considered as part of the government’s replacement legislation for the Resource Management Act, expected to be introduced later in the year.”

    Note to Editor:

    Victoria University may choose to demolish the Gordon Wilson Flats following the enactment of the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill. While they would not need a resource consent for the demolition, they would still need a demolition consent under the Building Act 2004 to ensure appropriate management of matters such as handling and disposing of hazardous building materials and controlling silt runoff, excess noise and dust generated by the demolition. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rural voters fed up with rates rip-off – Federated Farmers

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Councils have a mountain to climb to win back the trust of rural ratepayers, Federated Farmers says – and that starts with cutting wasteful spending and sharing the burden more fairly.
    “At the same time, councils deserve an overhaul of their funding tools and other changes to central government policy,” Feds local government spokesperson Sandra Faulkner says.
    “Council rates hikes have climbed well above inflation for several decades, but the pressure on ratepayers has only worsened.
    “When elections happen this October, voters should back candidates who commit to capping general rate increases at inflation – unless there’s a genuinely extraordinary reason not to,” Faulkner says.
    She says rural ratepayers are fed up with footing the bill for urban-centric services they don’t use and aren’t connected to.
    “It’s time to scrap unfair rating differentials and shift towards targeted uniform charges and annual general charges to reduce reliance on property value-based rates.”
    Federated Farmers is also calling for legislation changes that would require binding referenda on any council commercial projects that cost more than $500 per rateable property.
    “We’re not talking about sewage treatment plants, bridges or other such essential infrastructure,” Faulkner says.
    “We’re meaning commercial ventures like stadiums, conference centres and marinas that are beyond core council purposes and can destroy balance sheets.
    “It’s not to say these projects can’t happen, but ratepayers should get to make the final call.”
    Councils could also save money by sticking to their lane and leaving climate policy to central government, Faulkner says.
    “Councils should stop duplicating effort – and wasting ratepayer dollars – by setting climate policies.
    “To do something positive for the environment, councils that haven’t already should bring in a rates remission policy for land under QEII covenants, Significant Natural Areas and Outstanding Natural Landscapes.
    “Given that public conservation values are protected by these mechanisms, farmers deserve rates relief,” Faulkner says.
    Federated Farmers supports RMA and local planning reform that reduces delays, costs and uncertainty, and utilises tools like farm plans rather than consents.
    Significant Natural Area and environmental rules must be science-based and farmer-friendly.
    Faulkner says central government also has a major role in the drive for council efficiency and fairness.
    Federated Farmers believes road users, rather than property owners, should be paying for local roads and bridges – as is the case for State Highways.
    “We’re calling for 90% of local roading maintenance and renewal costs to come from fuel excise tax and road user charges, rather than rates. Currently, the average is only 53%.
    “Property value rates are a particularly poor mechanism to fund roads for the same reason as general taxation: it doesn’t tie those who use roads with those who pay for roads.
    “This system also lacks logic. In areas with a lot of tourism or freight, for example, locals are left paying for roading networks that serve a wider regional or national purpose.”
    The 10% cost share left with ratepayers would lock in a district say on local road priorities.
    Other steps from central government are also needed to relieve cost pressures on council, Faulkner says.
    “Crown land should be rateable, the 30% cap on council uniform annual general charges should be scrapped, and the Beehive should stop unfunded mandates – piling extra responsibilities onto councils with no corresponding funding.”
    Faulkner says with council elections looming, now’s a great chance to ask some tough questions of councillors seeking re-election – and those challenging them for seats – on how they’ll lessen the rural rates burden. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Privatisation – Private health contracts advance Govt’s health privatisation agenda – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government’s directive to Health New Zealand to give 10-year contracts to private hospitals for elective surgeries is a further step towards privatisation of health care, the PSA says.
    Stripping money out of the public health system to pay private, for-profit providers will not solve the Government’s underfunding of health, Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons says.
    “The long-term result of outsourcing to private providers will continue to weaken the provision of public health care by starving it of funds, giving the Government a further excuse to privatise more and more healthcare.
    “The plan to contract to private hospital long-term is ushering in the privatisation of the health system, which will inevitably mean syphoning money off from providing health services for all to pay profits to private corporations. This will result in only those who can pay being able to access adequate health care and other vital services.
    “The Government wants to drive us towards a US-style health system where the private sector dominates and sick people without health insurance are left at hospital doors.
    “The Minister says he is unapologetic about his directive, but the directive was kept under wraps for months.
    “If you judge the Government by its actions not its words, it is clear this lack of transparency is cover for privatisation by stealth of public health care.
    “Public health services belong to all of us and are there to deliver for people not shareholders.
    “Privatisation will also mean that the workers who deliver quality public, health services will see their livelihoods threatened by redundancies and reduced pay and conditions,” Fitzsimons says.
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legislation – All workers will now be able to be fired at will – the Govt has no shame – PSA

    Source: PSA

    All workers will be in the firing line for instant dismissal regardless of circumstances under a law change now before Parliament.
    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brook van Velden has introduced the Employment Relations Amendment Bill which will make it harder for workers to bring personal grievance claims.
    “This is plainly and simply a fundamental erosion of workers’ rights to secure employment – the Minister is effectively giving employers the green light to fire workers at will,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “It will be virtually impossible for a worker to bring a successful personal grievance if unfairly sacked. This is a radical change for every workplace in New Zealand, again exposing the Government’s priority to make life easier for employers, harder for workers.
    “If a worker is dismissed unjustifiably, the only remedy is through a personal grievance. There is no problem here the Government is trying to solve. The current remedies are already very limited with reinstatement only being ordered in 16 cases at the Employment Relations Authority in 2024 according to their Annual Report.
    “But now the Bill will make it easier for employers to find a way to undermine any personal grievance claim by establishing some conduct by the worker that contributed to a dismissal.
    “Under the Bill, an employer will be able to amplify any conduct by the workers – it won’t be hard for some justification to be found to defend against the claim.
    “This is all about weakening any claim and discouraging a worker from bringing a claim in the first place. That will mean workers will find it much harder to be reinstated which is ultimately what most workers want or get compensation for hurt and humiliation.
    “The Minister trumpeted the changes as all about ‘labour market flexibility’. We heard the same thing in 1991 with the Employment Contracts Act which the Government then promised would increase productivity. That didn’t happen, it just stripped workers of rights and emboldened employers.
    “We are seeing the same playbook now with planned cuts to sick pay, pay equity, the 90-day fire at will law, weakening health and safety requirements for employers and the axing of Fair Pay Agreements.
    “That all amounts to less secure employment, lower wages and more dangerous workplaces.
    “The Government has no shame and workers across New Zealand will pay the price for that for years to come.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legislation – Radical employment bill threatens every NZ worker – CTU

    Source: Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi

    The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi is urging all political parties to vote against Brooke van Velden’s new Employment Relations Amendment Bill, as it will severely undermine workers’ rights.

    “This new Bill will legislate many of the attacks on workers’ rights signalled by Brooke van Velden, fundamentally undermining the rights of working people in New Zealand’s employment relations system,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff.

    “Following instruction from Uber’s corporate lobbyists, the Minister is wanting to prevent some of the most vulnerable and casualised workers who have been misclassified as contractors from being able to access their legal rights by taking cases to court. Government should not be blocking workers from court because corporates may not like the outcome.  

    “The personal grievance changes are also trying to tie the courts hands and prevent them from establishing justice for workers. They entrench power imbalances and leave workers facing unjustified dismissal with no statutory protection.

    “These changes threaten every single worker in Aotearoa. The right to seek remedies for unjustifiable and unlawful dismissal is a basic employment right and should not be diluted.

    “This Bill also legislates to remove the 30-day rule, which is another attempt undermine unions and protections that unions bring their members. Currently workers in a new role have the protection of any collective agreement in place for 30 days. Removing the rule will encourage employers to exploit workers when they are at their most vulnerable, and to lead a race to the bottom for wages and conditions.

    “The Bill heightens worker vulnerability to unjustifiable dismissal, shields employers from the consequences of mistreating workers, and drives people into insecure work. This is in the context of government policy that has caused largescale unemployment.

    “Parties across Parliament should vote down this radically unjust law and instead support working people and their families,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget 2025-26: Education equity support extended

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 16/06/2025 – Joint media release

    The ACT Government will continue to support Canberra families with the cost of education through the 2025–26 ACT Budget, expanding two key programs that ensure every student has access to a full and inclusive school experience.

    Minister for Education and Youth Affairs Yvette Berry said the Budget will extend funding for both the Future of Education Equity Fund and the Free School Camps at Birrigai program, helping to ease financial pressure on families.

    “The cost of living is affecting Canberra families, which is why the Future of Education Equity Fund and Free School Camps at Birrigai are so important,” Minister Berry said.

    “Equity is at the heart of everything we do in education because all children and young people, regardless of their circumstances, deserve the support they need to achieve a good education.”

    The Equity Fund will be boosted by $600,000 for the 2025 school year, enabling support for an additional 1,000 eligible students through one-off payments for school-related costs like uniforms, books, excursions and extracurricular activities.

    In addition, $3.3 million over four years will ensure all ACT public primary school students can continue to attend a free school camp at Birrigai each year, a program which began in Term 1 this year.

    Treasurer Chris Steel said the funding reflects the ACT Government’s commitment to practical support that helps families right now.

    “Extending these equity programs delivers on our election commitments to support thousands of Canberra families,” Minister Steel said.

    “This is about making sure every child, no matter their background, has the chance to take part in the full educational experience, from classroom learning to outdoor adventure.”

    The Future of Education Equity Fund supports students from preschool through to college. In 2024, the program helped thousands of students access the essentials they need to succeed at school.

    View more information about the Future of Education Equity Fund.

    – Statement ends –

    Yvette Berry, MLA | Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pennsylvania Man Charged with Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, and Identity Theft

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Adepoju Babatunde Salako, 32, of Pennsylvania, has been charged with six counts of wire fraud; one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering; and four counts of aggravated identity theft.

    According to the indictment, between July 2020 and July 2021, Salako allegedly participated in a money laundering conspiracy involving fraudulent applications for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans to the Small Business Administration (SBA) and for unemployment insurance benefits to more than 30 states that obtained more than $5.6 million in government benefits using over 1,000 stolen or fake identities. Salako and his co-conspirators allegedly moved fraud proceeds through several intermediate accounts using various methods, eventually spending the money or transferring it overseas as currency or in the form of goods such as cars or solar panels.

    The indictment further alleges that between January 4, 2021, and March 20, 2021, Salako submitted approximately 15 fraudulent applications for unemployment insurance benefits to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), using stolen or false identities. Salako allegedly used names and addresses of residents of Colorado, which he looked up on personal information search websites such as TruthFinder, to submit applications using the Colorado residents’ actual identifiers.  The CDLE paid one unemployment insurance claim submitted by Salako, in the amount of $649, and paid an additional $15,431 to bank accounts controlled by Salako based on claims submitted by a co-conspirator.

    The indictment further alleges that in addition to submitting fraudulent unemployment insurance claims to Colorado, Salako submitted and aided and abetted in the submission of fraudulent claims in other states using stolen or false identities, including Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, and New York,  at least 10 fraudulent applications for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans to the SBA, using stolen or false identities, and a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loan application in the name of Turn-Turn-Turn Woodturning, using the stolen identity of a Nevada resident.

    The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was enacted in March 2020 and was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans dealing with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The CARES Act created the PPP, a program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that provided loans to small businesses to retain workers, maintain payroll, and certain other expenses consistent with PPP rules. Additionally, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, several federal programs expanded eligibility for unemployment benefits.

    The defendant made his initial appearance in Colorado on June 13, 2025, before Magistrate Judge Scott T. Varholak.

    The charges contained in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is being investigated by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and CDLE.  The case is being prosecuted by the Economic Crime Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form

    Case Number: 25-cr-00162-CNS

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Wetland restoration is seen as sunk cost – but new research shows why it should be considered an investment

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wei Yang, Senior Scientist in Environmental Economics, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University

    Shutterstock/Wirestock Creators

    As extreme weather intensifies globally, governments are seeking nature-based solutions that deliver both climate and economic benefits.

    The restoration of wetlands is an often overlooked opportunity. As our recent study shows, wetlands have long been treated as environmental “add-ons” but are in fact rising economic assets, delivering more value as they mature.

    Restored coastal wetlands, particularly mangroves and saltmarshes, offer growing returns in the form of carbon sequestration, biodiversity protection and storm buffering. These benefits build up gradually, sometimes exponentially, over time.

    But planning frameworks treat restorations as static costs, rather than compounding investments.

    Using international data and economic modelling, we developed a framework to capture how wetland benefits evolve over decades. While we draw on global datasets, this approach can be applied in New Zealand to understand the value of local restoration projects.

    Timing matters for wetland investment

    Traditional cost-benefit analyses treat wetland restoration as a one-off expense with fixed returns. Our research shows this misses the bigger, long-term picture.

    For example, coastal mangroves initially store a modest amount of carbon while seedlings develop. But as root systems establish and capture sediment, there is a critical threshold when carbon sequestration accelerates dramatically. Mature restored mangroves can store three times more carbon annually than during early years.

    Saltmarshes follow a similar pattern. They develop from basic habitat into complex networks that buffer storm surges, filter nutrients and support productive fisheries.

    For New Zealand, where many wetlands were historically drained or degraded, the implication is clear. Early investment in restoration is critical and will deliver increasing returns over time.

    Our study highlights mangroves and saltmarshes as priority systems, but also points to peatlands and freshwater marshes as promising candidates.

    Early investment in wetland restoration can deliver long-term returns.
    Shutterstock/Wirestock Creators

    Risk from resource management reform

    As part of a major reform of the Resource Management Act, the government is reviewing the environmental rules governing the work of local and regional councils, including policies on freshwater.

    The law review and freshwater policy consultations present both opportunities and challenges for wetland valuation.

    The amendment to the Resource Management Act regarding freshwater proposes:

    quick, targeted changes which will reduce the regulatory burden on key sectors, including farming, mining and other primary industries.

    While this may reduce the regulatory burden, it highlight the need for robust valuation tools that can weigh long-term benefits against immediate development returns.

    The current consultation outlines specific changes, including clarifying the definition of a wetland. The amended definition would exclude wetlands “unintentionally created” through activities such as irrigation, while constructed wetlands would have a new set of objectives and consent pathways.

    Councils would also no longer need to map wetlands by 2030, while restrictions on non-intensive grazing of beef cattle and deer in wetlands would be removed.

    These definition changes could exclude wetlands that accumulate significant climate and biodiversity benefits over time, regardless of their origin. As our research suggests, the ecological and economic value of wetlands often increases substantially as systems mature.

    The valuation gap

    Despite growing international recognition of “blue carbon” initiatives (which store carbon in coastal and marine ecosystems), New Zealand lacks frameworks to capture the dynamic value of wetlands.

    Earlier research shows coastal ecosystems contribute about US$190 billion annually to global blue carbon wealth, with wetlands storing about half of all carbon buried in ocean sediments despite occupying less than 2% of the ocean.

    New Zealand has no wetland-specific financial instruments to attract private investment and wetlands are not integrated into the Emissions Trading Scheme, the government’s main tool for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    This creates a fundamental mismatch. Policy frameworks treat restoration as static costs while science reveals appreciating assets.

    Our modelling framework offers a pathway to bridge this gap. By tracking how different wetland types accumulate benefits over time, decision makers can better understand long-term returns on restoration investment.

    Australia is already developing wetland carbon markets. International blue carbon financial initiatives are emerging and recognising that today’s restoration investment delivers tomorrow’s climate benefits.

    For New Zealand, this could mean:

    • integrating wetland valuation into environmental assessments, moving beyond upfront costs to consider decades of accumulating benefits across different wetland types

    • aligning finance with restoration timelines and developing funding mechanisms that capture growing value rather than treating restoration as sunk costs

    • building regional datasets and generating location-specific data on how New Zealand’s diverse wetlands develop benefits over time, reducing investment uncertainty.

    With sea-level rise accelerating and extreme weather becoming more frequent, wetlands represent critical infrastructure for climate adaptation. Unlike built infrastructure (stop banks, for example) that depreciates, wetlands appreciate, becoming more valuable as they mature.

    The current policy consultation period offers an opportunity to embed this thinking into New Zealand’s environmental frameworks. Rather than viewing wetlands as regulatory constraints, dynamic valuation could reveal them as appreciating assets that increase resilience for coastal communities.

    Restoring coastal wetlands is not just about repairing nature. It’s about investing in a living, compounding asset that ameliorates climate impacts and protects our coasts and communities.

    Wei Yang was funded by a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment Endeavour grant.

    – ref. Wetland restoration is seen as sunk cost – but new research shows why it should be considered an investment – https://theconversation.com/wetland-restoration-is-seen-as-sunk-cost-but-new-research-shows-why-it-should-be-considered-an-investment-258281

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inward investment success

    Source: Scottish Government

    Record share of UK projects secured despite global instabilities.

    Nearly one in six inward investment projects in the UK last year were secured in Scotland, according to new data published by EY.

    The record share of the market cements the country’s position as the UK’s top destination outside of London – for the tenth year in a row – while Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow remain among the top 10 UK cities for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects outside of London.

    Although the total number of new projects in Scotland fell back slightly (4.9%) from record numbers in 2023, it compares to a drop of 13% in the UK, 14% in France and 17% in Germany.

    EY’s survey of global investors found that quarter of those planning to invest in the UK are targeting Scotland, maintaining the country’s long-standing position in investors’ eyes as the UK’s preferred FDI destination outside of London.

    To mark the results, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes visited the Glasgow offices of Canadian IT and business consulting services firm CGI Inc. which employs around 750 employees across its Glasgow, Edinburgh, Borders and Aberdeen offers.

    The Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

    “Given the geopolitical uncertainties clearly affecting investor confidence across the world, this is an incredible endorsement of Scotland’s proposition as a destination for global investment.

    “A huge amount of work, across both the private and public sectors, goes into securing these projects, which are vital for economic growth, job creation and bringing benefits across our towns and cities.

    “From the likes of green aircraft engine ZeroAvia to ticketing hub Humanatix, 2025 is bringing further significant investment and exciting projects to Scotland. The Scottish Government will continue to work with businesses and our “Team Scotland” partners to continue building the country’s reputation as a world class location for foreign investment.”

    Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise Adrian Gillespie said:

    “It’s fantastic to mark a decade of Scotland as the number one UK location for inward investment outside of London. Foreign direct investment unlocks innovation, creates jobs, and opens up new supply chain opportunities for Scottish companies.

    “Our staff in over 30 offices around the world are vital to building these trusted relationships with potential inward investors, which can often take years to cultivate. This work is complemented by colleagues at home working with Team Scotland partners to build a package of support to bring these companies to Scotland.

    “Scotland’s strengths in emerging technologies, including AI, are attracting new foreign investors, with US robotics and AI company LaunchPad Build opening an Edinburgh office last year. Together with Scotland’s historic reputation for financial services excellence, this is driving further investment, such as Australian fintech HALO opening its Glasgow operations centre last year.

    “The global energy transition, and Scotland’s growing reputation in this area, continues to be a catalyst for innovation, with US headquartered ZeroAvia locating its manufacturing facility for hydrogen aviation engines next to Glasgow airport and Japanese sub-sea cable manufacturer Sumitomo breaking ground on its factory in Port of Nigg.”

    CGI Senior Vice President, Scotland and Northern Ireland, said Lindsay McGranaghan:

    “CGI has been working in Scotland for more than 10 years, and we find it an outstanding place to do business and grow talent. We have established offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Tweedbank, and employ 750 staff – who we call partners – who support key sectors such as government, health, energy and higher education. 

    “Six years ago we expanded our presence with the opening of a new HQ in Glasgow, and we embrace the metro model of working – building a resource of Scottish-based partners who live and work in their local communities. We have also developed partnerships with a host of Scottish SMEs, helping small businesses grow while supporting regional economic development.

    “As the UK’s leading FDI location outside London for a decade, Scotland’s resilience and appeal are clear. We are proud to play our part in that success, and look forward continuing to grow our business in Scotland.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACCC to examine unsolicited selling and lead generation practices

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The ACCC has commenced a review into unsolicited selling and lead generation, including door-to-door selling and cold calling, in response to the Consumer Action Law Centre’s designated complaint.

    Unsolicited selling is when a salesperson approaches a consumer out of the blue to try and generate the sale of a good or service and the consumer has not invited the contact. It often occurs in the form of door-to-door selling, cold calling, or approaching a consumer in a shopping centre.  Unsolicited selling can be facilitated through ‘lead generation’, including social media advertising. Lead generation refers to the process of identifying people as potential sales targets.

    This is the first designated complaint received by the ACCC under the new designated complaints framework.

    The ACCC is satisfied that the conduct identified in the Consumer Action Law Centre’s complaint requires an in-depth review.

    “Unsolicited selling and lead generation has the potential to cause significant financial harm to consumers and it can often disproportionately impact consumers experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.

    “We consider that a review into these practices is necessary in order to better understand how the practices are used and their impacts across different cohorts of consumers. Gaining a better understanding of these practices will help determine if further action is needed to better protect consumers.”

    As part of its review, the ACCC will further examine the issues raised in the designated complaint, focussing on:

    • the consumer experience of unsolicited selling
    • sales structures and practices, including the role of incentives such as commission-based remuneration.
    • the role of lead generation, including the role of advertising on social media channels.
    • whether there are any issues with the application of the Australian Consumer Law, including the unsolicited consumer agreement provisions.

    The ACCC has opened consultation and published a consultation paper and is seeking stakeholder feedback on the benefits and detriments of unsolicited selling and lead generation. Consultation closes on 31 July 2025.

    “We want to hear the views from a broad range of stakeholders, including businesses that use unsolicited selling, industry associations, government, consumers groups and consumers, to help inform our review,” Ms Lowe said.

    After the completion of the review, the ACCC will publish a report on our findings.

    In the meantime, the ACCC will, as usual, continue to consider conduct by individual businesses involving unsolicited consumer agreements for potential compliance or enforcement action, including those raised in the designated complaint, consistent with our Compliance and Enforcement Policy.

    Our review and report may also lead to further actions, pending our findings.

    The ACCC’s response to CALC’s designated complaint is available on our website.

    We thank the Consumer Action Law Centre for the time and effort in preparing and submitting the designated complaint on this important consumer issue. We value the insights and concerns the Consumer Action Law Centre has shared with us over many years through various other forums. The designated complaint avenue provides another means of drawing focus to key issues impacting consumers

    ACCC’s response to further designated complaints

    In general, the ACCC may take a broad range of actions in response to a designated complaint. This may include conducting in-depth investigations into specific businesses’ practices, reviews into a specific sector or issue, advocacy activities, and/or undertaking research, education or engagement.

    The ACCC’s response to a designated complaint may also include advising that we won’t take any further action. We may do this when:

    • The designated complaint doesn’t meet the necessary criteria.
    • We consider the subject matter of the designated complaint is already the focus of certain types of existing inquiries, reviews, investigations or legal proceedings, and has been or is likely to be adequately addressed through those other processes.
    • We consider no further action would be appropriate, having regard to the nature of the issue, the nature and extent of the harm or potential harm, and the likely impact ACCC action may have.

    Background

    A new designated complaints framework in the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 came into effect on 1 May 2024.

    Under the law, 3 bodies can be designated by the Minister as designated complainants. Currently these are Australian Consumers’ Association (CHOICE), Consumer Action Law Centre, and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA).

    In March 2025 the Consumer Action Law Centre submitted the first designated complaint to the ACCC under the new framework.

    A designated complainant may only make one designated complaint within a 12-month period.

    Under the framework, designated complaints must meet certain criteria, including that they relate to a significant or systemic market issue affecting consumers or small business in Australia, and that they relate to a potential breach of the CCA or the ACCC’s powers or functions under the CCA.

    The ACCC is required to assess and publicly respond to the designated complaint within 90 days. The ACCC’s response must state what further action, if any, will be taken in response to the complaint.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Introduces No War Against Iran Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, June 16 – Following Israel’s military strikes against Iran, which threaten to further destabilize the Middle East and draw the United States into yet another military conflict, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today introduced the No War Against Iran Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Iran absent specific Congressional authorization. The bill contains an exception for self-defense as enshrined in the War Powers Act and applicable U.S. law.

    Joining Sanders on this legislation are Sens. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.). Sanders first introduced this legislation in January 2020 with Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and then-Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) as cosponsors.

    “Netanyahu’s reckless and illegal attacks violate international law and risk igniting a regional war. Congress must make it clear that the United States will not be dragged into Netanyahu’s war of choice,” Sanders said. “Our Founding Fathers entrusted the power of war and peace exclusively to the people’s elected representatives in Congress, and it is imperative that we make clear that the President has no authority to embark on another costly war without explicit authorization by Congress.”

    “Another war in the Middle East could cost countless lives, waste trillions more dollars and lead to even more deaths, more conflict, and more displacement,” Sanders continued. “I will do everything that I can as a Senator to defend the Constitution and prevent the U.S. from being drawn into another war.”

    “Our taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund another reckless, open-ended conflict instigated by Prime Minister Netanyahu,” Welch said. “War has badly damaged this region. Millions of civilians face acute hunger and need lifesaving aid in Gaza right now. Netanyahu just upended U.S.-led negotiations to limit Iran’s nuclear program in favor of recklessly escalating tensions. Congress needs to listen to the American people, as our founders intended, before getting involved.”

    “The Constitution is clear: Congress decides when our country goes to war, not the President or the Netanyahu government,” Warren said. “The Trump administration must prioritize de-escalation to prevent this spiraling into a war that jeopardizes U.S. troops and destabilizes the Middle East.”

    “As strikes between Israel and Iran continue, we need de-escalation and restraint from all sides. Trump’s reckless decision to abandon the JCPOA nuclear agreement, cheered on by Netanyahu, helped bring us to this dangerous moment. This bill makes clear: the President cannot launch another war in the Middle East without Congressional authorization. It’s long past time for Congress to reassert its constitutional role and prevent another disastrous conflict,” Merkley said.

    “Instead of bringing wars to an end, Trump is facilitating them — leading to civilian deaths and threatening American lives in the region. Only the Congress has the constitutional power to declare war, and President Trump must not drag us further into this conflict without Congressional approval,” Van Hollen said.

    “Our Constitution and laws give Congress, not the President, the exclusive powers to authorize military force and declare war. Congress must reassert that authority so that we are not drawn into a catastrophic regional war that would further imperil the safety of American citizens and forces, the stability of Middle East, and the lives of innocent civilians,” Markey said.

    Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –