Category: Sport

MIL-OSI USA: Neag School Class of 2025 Student Profile: Teddi Ferraro

Source: US State of Connecticut

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.

Major: BS, Sport Management with minor in Communication
Hometown: Bethel, Connecticut

Q: Why did you choose UConn?

A: Not only was UConn my top choice when looking into continuing my academic career, but it was close enough to my home in Connecticut yet still far enough away, and I heard amazing things about the Sport Management program. Since I graduated high school in 2021, I wasn’t able to get a real tour of the campus due to COVID restrictions, but when I drove through with my family, I knew it was the place for me! I fell in love with the campus very early on and couldn’t see myself going anywhere else. The athletics program here is also outstanding, and I knew that I wanted to be a part of that from early on in my college search. Plus, I have always been a UConn fan!

Q: What’s your major or ﬁeld of study, and what drew you to it?

A: I am a sport management major with a minor in communication. Despite being plus-sized for most of my life, I have always been drawn to sports. My time in high school consisted mostly of working with my town’s youth baseball association and youth football and competitive cheer program. From that point on, I knew I wanted to completely immerse myself in the realm of sport despite not technically fitting the “stereotypical” description of a woman in sport; this, in fact, continues to fuel my ambition. I fell in love with the creative side of it, whether it be photography or marketing, and I knew that this was the path I was meant to follow.

Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

A: All the professors in the Sport Management program have been absolutely amazing and helpful in so many diﬀerent ways. If I had to pick just one, though, Dr. Danielle DeRosa truly has been one of my favorite professors ever. Dr. DeRosa, while not only my professor but also my advisor and I would argue my friend, has pushed me to be the best version of myself, not only academically but professionally and personally. She is the true embodiment of what a professor should be and the kind of person I strive to be in the future.

Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

A: As a student I was the treasurer of the UConn Women in Sport club, a member of Sport Business Association, a UConn Athletics marketing intern, the communication specialist for the Department of Educational Leadership in the Neag School of Education, and a student youth outreach and educational assistant for UConn Husky Nutrition and Sport.

Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

A: Something that surprised me about UConn was how close everyone was. While UConn is such a big school with so many students, everybody knows somebody who knows somebody else. Coming from a smaller town, I knew I wanted to go to a bigger school, but I was nervous about making friends when I got here. In the end, everyone was in the same boat, and I met so many people who also knew each other. The close-knit community that UConn really has surprised me a lot.

Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

A: I think it’s okay to say that I am not completely sure what my plans are after graduating and receiving my degree. My plan for right now is to go home and work my summer job at the YMCA as a head teacher and then look for a job in sports marketing in June or August. I’m keeping an open mind to all possibilities!

Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

A: While not only helping me make some of my best friends, UConn really boosted my conﬁdence in myself. I wouldn’t have been able to get to this point without the people I have met along the way here. I know I am capable of being my own person no matter the path that I follow. If it weren’t for UConn, I don’t know where I would be in life right now.

While not only helping me make some of my best friends, UConn really boosted my conﬁdence in myself. &#8212 Teddi Ferraro

Q: Any advice for incoming students?

A: One of my internship supervisors once gave me some advice, a Carrie Fisher quote: “Stay afraid but do it anyway.” Life gets scary sometimes, and moving to UConn could be one of those things for you. However, living through the discomfort of a new place, while scary, might be so rewarding that you might end up loving it so much! Try new things, meet new people, be afraid, but do it regardless.

Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

A: In true sport management fashion, everyone should at least try to attend athletic events at UConn during their time here, especially basketball! There is nothing quite like the atmosphere in Gampel Pavilion. Get out there and support the Huskies!

Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

A: Not to sound like a broken record, but when I think of UConn, I think of basketball, the opportunities that I have been given, and the things that I have experienced, all because of the sports, programs, and people that I have met along the way. Working games and being in Gampel Pavilion will always have a place in my heart, and I will never be able to think of UConn without it.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Neag School Class of 2025 Student Profile: Rocco DeSantes

Source: US State of Connecticut

Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.

Major: BS, Sport Management
Hometown: Marshfield, Massachusetts

Q: Why did you choose UConn?

A: I chose UConn because the University provided me with the best opportunity to support my academic journey and career aspirations. UConn was highly recommended by some of my older friends who were undergraduate students at the time. They raved about the school’s student-driven culture and the number of opportunities and resources that the campus and different schools offered to its students. I would be lying, too, if the sports culture at the school wasn’t a top priority for me as I was looking to immerse myself in that type of environment. The recommendation, comfort of familiarity, and proximity to home drew me to the University, and upon admission, it was an easy and quick decision for me.

Q: What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

A: I am a sport management major at the Neag School of Education. Like most majors, my interest started at an early age with a passion for sports. When it came to furthering my academic journey and beginning to explore career interests, I was drawn to sport management. I discovered UConn’s Sport Management program and was immediately motivated to pursue this major and career.

Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

A: My favorite professor while at UConn is Dr. Danielle DeRosa in the Sport Management program. Dr. DeRosa teaches the career development course in the Sport Management program, and she is one of the first people you meet in the program to support you in your undergraduate studies. Dr. DeRosa puts the student first and provides immense support when navigating your academic and career aspirations. She provides students with many resources to be successful and cares about each student and their successes. Dr. DeRosa is an incredible professor at the University of Connecticut, but more importantly, she is an amazing person, and I am grateful to have met her during my undergraduate experience at UConn.

Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

A: As an undergraduate student, I had the opportunity to work for the UConn women’s basketball team as a student manager. This opportunity shaped my entire undergraduate experience. I was able to work for a prestigious program, gain valuable real-world experience, travel to new places all over the world, and further my academic journey and career aspirations while gaining internship credit for school. On top of this experience, I was involved in the UConn Sports Business Association and UConn’s TME Mentor program. These activities shaped my experience as a student at UConn.

Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

A: One thing that surprised me at UConn was the close-knit community feel that was driven by the student body. With over 20,000 students, I initially thought that the large state school UConn community was larger than one could imagine. Still, the students create a community on campus that feels extremely close, like a family. From the classroom to sporting events, the UConn community makes you feel like you’re a part of one big Husky family.

Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

A: Following graduation, I have accepted a position with the UConn women’s basketball team as a graduate assistant. I will be continuing my academic journey, pursuing a master’s degree in Sport Management from the University of Connecticut.

Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

A: UConn has prepared me for the next chapter in life by providing me with an unforgettable undergraduate experience. The resources and opportunities that the University offers its students prepare you for your next chapter in life. I have gained valuable real-world, hands-on experience as well as developed transferable skills needed to be successful in any field. I have networked and built strong relationships with both students and faculty that will last a lifetime.

UConn has prepared me for the next chapter in life by providing me with an unforgettable undergraduate experience. &#8212 Rocco DeSantes

Q: Any advice for incoming students?

A: My biggest piece of advice for incoming students is you will get what you put into your experience at UConn. You can’t wait for opportunities to fall into your lap; you have to go out, look for them, and jump on them. UConn offers students many opportunities, resources, and support to be successful, but it is on the individual student to put the most into their own experience.

Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

A: One thing everyone should do at UConn is attend a sporting event. UConn sports culture is unmatched. You will always have a place where you feel like you belong when it comes to UConn sports. The school spirit and the passion the students have for the sports team are an experience you cannot miss out on as a Husky.

Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

A: One thing that will always make me think of UConn is the Husky logo. This logo represents much more than just the University’s mascot and the school’s logo. The logo represents a community, a family, and a culture that no other university has. Whenever you see someone wearing the Husky logo, you can count on yelling out ‘UConn’ and hearing a Husky’s response. I will always bleed blue, and the Husky logo will remind me of UConn and my unforgettable undergraduate memories and experiences.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Fastest Payout Online Casinos: JACKBIT Ranked #1 for Instant Withdrawals with No Verification

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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Feature	Details
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Game Count	Over 6,000 titles from 90+ providers
Payment Methods	16+ cryptocurrencies, Visa, MasterCard, Google Pay, Apple Pay
Withdrawal Speed	Instant crypto withdrawals (under 10 minutes)
Customer Support	24/7 via live chat and email
License	Curacao Gaming Authority

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Pros and Cons of JACKBIT Casino

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Pros	Cons
Fastest payout online casino with instant crypto withdrawals	No dedicated mobile app (mobile-optimized site available)
Over 6,000 games from 90+ providers	Withdrawals are crypto-only, limiting fiat options
No KYC policy for crypto users	Some bonuses have specific wagering requirements
Supports 16+ cryptocurrencies and fiat deposits	Curacao license may not suit players seeking stricter regulation
24/7 multilingual customer support
Generous bonuses, including 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins

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How to Join JACKBIT Casino

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How We Selected JACKBIT as the Fast Paying Online Casino

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Casino Games

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Blackjack

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Live blackjack tables, powered by Evolution Gaming, add an immersive element, appealing to players at instant withdrawal casinos.

Roulette

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Live roulette tables enhance the experience with real-time interaction.

Poker

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Live Dealer Games

Live Blackjack: Multiple tables with varying stakes.
Live Roulette: European and French variants with professional dealers.
Game Shows: Titles like Crazy Time and Monopoly Live for casual fun.

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Craps

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Sportsbook

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Sports Welcome Bonus: 100% refund on a losing first bet (minimum $20).

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Specialty Games

JACKBIT also offers lottery, scratch cards, and instant win games for quick, casual play. These games provide a break from traditional casino offerings, enhancing the platform’s versatility.

Casino Game Providers

JACKBIT, fast payout online casino, collaborates with 90+ industry-leading providers to deliver its extensive game library:

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Fastest Payout Methods at JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s payment options are tailored for speed and flexibility, making it a standout fastest payout online casino.

Cryptocurrencies

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Ethereum (ETH)
Litecoin (LTC)
Tether (USDT)
Ripple (XRP)
Solana (SOL)
Cardano (ADA)
Dogecoin (DOGE)
Binance Coin (BNB)
Monero (XMR)
USD Coin (USDC)
TRON (TRX)
Polygon (MATIC)
DAI
SHIBA INU
Chainlink (LINK)

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Fiat Methods

For deposits, JACKBIT accepts:

Visa
MasterCard
Bank Transfer
Google Pay
Apple Pay

However, withdrawals are crypto-only, which may limit options for fiat users. Processing times for fiat deposits are instant, but withdrawals via crypto maintain JACKBIT’s same day withdrawal online casinos status.

Buy Crypto Option

JACKBIT offers a “Buy Crypto” feature, allowing players to purchase cryptocurrencies directly on the platform using fiat methods. This simplifies the process for newcomers, enhancing accessibility at this quick pay casino.

Limitations

Weekly withdrawal limits are €10,000, with monthly caps at €20,000, which may affect high rollers. The crypto-only withdrawal policy, while fast, may inconvenience players preferring fiat payouts. Despite these, JACKBIT’s payment system excels for those prioritizing speed and security.

Payment Method	Deposit Time	Withdrawal Time	Fees
Cryptocurrencies	Instant	<10 minutes	None
Visa/MasterCard	Instant	N/A (crypto-only)	Varies
Bank Transfer	1–3 days	N/A (crypto-only)	Varies
Google Pay/Apple Pay	Instant	N/A (crypto-only)	Varies

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Customer Support

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Responsible Gambling at JACKBIT

JACKBIT is committed to promoting responsible gambling, offering tools to help players manage their gaming habits:

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Loss Limits: Restrict losses over a specified period.
Wagering Limits: Limit total bets to maintain financial discipline.
Session Time Limits: Monitor and restrict gaming duration.
Cooling-Off Periods: Temporary account suspensions for short breaks.
Self-Exclusion: Permanent or temporary account closure for extended breaks.
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These tools, combined with access to support resources like the National Council on Problem Gambling, ensure JACKBIT remains a responsible fast payout casino by prioritizing player well-being.

Mobile Gaming Experience

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Full Game Access: Play slots, table games, live dealers, and bet on sports directly from mobile browsers.
Intuitive Interface: Touch-friendly controls and clear menus enhance usability.
Fast Transactions: Deposit and withdraw instantly using crypto, maintaining JACKBIT’s fastest paying online casino status.
Cross-Platform Consistency: The mobile experience mirrors the desktop version, with no loss of functionality.

This mobile compatibility makes JACKBIT a top choice for players seeking online casinos with instant payout on the go.

User Experience and Interface

JACKBIT’s website is designed for ease of use, featuring a sleek, modern interface with intuitive navigation. Key elements include:

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This user-centric design enhances the overall experience, positioning JACKBIT among new instant withdrawal casinos for accessibility and engagement.

Comparing JACKBIT to Other Fast Payout Casinos

Compared to competitors, JACKBIT excels in several areas:

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Game Variety: Over 6,000 games surpass most competitors’ offerings.
Privacy: The no-KYC policy is a unique advantage for crypto users.
Sportsbook: Comprehensive sports betting options add versatility, unlike many casino-only platforms.

While some casinos offer stricter regulatory oversight or broader fiat withdrawal options, JACKBIT’s focus on speed, privacy, and variety makes it a preferred instant withdrawal casino for 2025.

Sportsbook Excellence

JACKBIT’s sportsbook is a standout feature, offering betting on over 140 sports, including:

Popular Sports: Football, basketball, tennis, cricket, and rugby.
Esports: League of Legends, Dota 2, CS:GO, and more.
Virtual Sports: Simulated events for instant betting.
Niche Markets: Darts, snooker, and table tennis.

With over 82,000 live monthly events and 75,000 pre-match events, the sportsbook provides competitive odds and live betting options. Features include:

Live Streaming: Watch select events directly on the platform.
In-Play Betting: Place bets during matches for dynamic wagering.
Cash-Out Options: Secure profits or minimize losses before events conclude.
Sports Welcome Bonus: 100% refund on a losing first bet (minimum $20).

This comprehensive sportsbook enhances JACKBIT’s appeal as a fast payout casino, catering to sports betting enthusiasts alongside casino players.

Popular Games with Bonus Opportunities

JACKBIT ties promotions to popular games, offering extra incentives:

Tasty Bonanza (Pragmatic Play): 96.48% RTP, tumbling reels, and free spins, often featured in Drops & Wins.
Wolf Haven (Pragmatic Play): 96.01% RTP, Money Respin feature, popular in bonus campaigns.
Big Catch Bonanza (Reel Kingdom): 96.71% RTP, scatter-triggered free spins, tied to promotional offers.
Mega Ace (Microgaming): 88.12% RTP, progressive jackpot potential, eligible for free spins.

These games, available across devices, enhance JACKBIT’s status as a best online casinos that payout instantly destination, offering exciting gameplay and bonus potential.

JACKBIT Casino Conclusion: The Ultimate Fast Payout Casino

After evaluating numerous fast payout online casinos, JACKBIT emerges as the top choice for 2025. Its extensive game library, featuring over 6,000 titles, caters to every player preference, from slots to sports betting. The platform’s status as the fastest payout online casino, with instant crypto withdrawals, ensures players access their winnings without delay. Generous bonuses, including a 30% Rakeback welcome offer and 100 free spins, provide exceptional value, while the no-KYC policy enhances privacy for crypto users.

JACKBIT’s commitment to player satisfaction is evident in its 24/7 multilingual support, mobile-optimized design, and robust responsible gambling tools. The comprehensive sportsbook, covering 140+ sports with live betting and competitive odds, adds versatility, making JACKBIT a one-stop shop for gaming and betting. While the Curacao license and crypto-only withdrawals may not suit everyone, these are minor drawbacks compared to the platform’s strengths.

For players seeking a best fast payout casino with variety, speed, and security, JACKBIT is unmatched. Join today at JACKBIT and experience why it’s the fastest paying online casino for 2025.

Email: support@JACKBIT.com

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This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or gambling advice. Information is provided “as is,” with no warranties regarding accuracy or completeness. Readers must verify details and ensure compliance with local gambling laws. The publisher and authors are not liable for any losses or consequences from relying on this information.

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The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Best Crypto Casinos: JACKBIT Rated As Top Crypto Casino with BTC Bonuses & No KYC Policy

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the surge in popularity of cryptocurrency, the number of crypto gambling sites has skyrocketed, offering players a blend of anonymity, rapid transactions, and diverse gaming options. However, navigating this crowded market to find the best crypto casino can be challenging.

After an exhaustive review of numerous platforms, our team has identified JACKBIT as the top crypto casino for 2025. Renowned for its no KYC policy, extensive game library, and lightning-fast payouts, JACKBIT stands out among the best crypto casinos.

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Whether you’re spinning slots, betting on sports, or enjoying live dealer games, JACKBIT delivers an unparalleled experience that sets it apart from other crypto gambling sites. In this detailed review, we explore the factors that make JACKBIT the best crypto casino, including its bonuses, game variety, payment methods, and commitment to player satisfaction.

This article covers why JACKBIT is our favorite, its pros and cons, how to join, our selection process, available games, supported payment methods, and responsible gambling tools.

A Closer Look At The Best Crypto Casino: JACKBIT

JACKBIT has earned its place as the leading crypto casino through a combination of innovative features and player-focused services. Here’s why it’s the top choice among the best Bitcoin casinos:

No KYC Policy: JACKBIT allows players to register and play without identity verification, ensuring privacy and quick access.
Massive Game Library: With over 7,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer options, and a comprehensive sportsbook, JACKBIT caters to all preferences.
Instant Payouts: Cryptocurrency withdrawals are processed in under 10 minutes, making it a leader among top crypto casinos.
Generous Bonuses: New players receive 100 free spins with no wagering requirements, and existing users benefit from reload bonuses, rakeback, and tournaments.
Flexible Payments: Supports over 17 cryptocurrencies and fiat methods like Visa and Apple Pay, ensuring seamless transactions.
24/7 Support: Round-the-clock customer support via live chat and email ensures prompt assistance.

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These features make JACKBIT a standout in the realm of new crypto casinos, offering a seamless and rewarding experience.

JACKBIT Casino – Our Favorite Crypto Casino

JACKBIT tops our list of the best crypto casinos due to its exceptional offerings. The no KYC policy allows players to dive into gaming without delays, a significant advantage for those valuing privacy. The welcome bonus of 100 free spins on Book of Dead provides a risk-free way to explore the platform. Regular promotions, such as weekly giveaways and a VIP rakeback program, keep players engaged.

The game selection is a major draw, with thousands of slots, table games, and live dealer options from top providers like NetEnt and Evolution Gaming. The sportsbook covers over 140 sports, appealing to betting enthusiasts.

Payment flexibility, with support for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, ensures fast and secure transactions. Coupled with responsive customer support, JACKBIT delivers a comprehensive gaming experience.

Pros And Cons

Pros	Cons
Over 7,000 games from leading providers	Not regulated by the UKGC
Instant crypto withdrawals (under 10 minutes)	No dedicated mobile app (mobile-optimized site available)
No KYC for enhanced privacy	Limited fiat withdrawal options
Supports 17+ cryptocurrencies and fiat methods
24/7 multilingual customer support
Generous bonuses with no wagering requirements

While the lack of UKGC licensing may concern some, JACKBIT’s Curacao license ensures a regulated and fair environment, making it a compelling choice among crypto gambling sites.

How To Join JACKBIT Casino? Step By Step Guide

Joining JACKBIT is simple and designed for ease, especially for players new to crypto casinos:

Visit JACKBIT: Go to the JACKBIT sign-up page.
Create Account: Click “Register” and enter your email and password.
No KYC Required: Skip identity verification for instant setup.
Make First Deposit: Choose a payment method (crypto or fiat) and deposit at least $50 to claim the welcome bonus.
Claim Bonus: The 100 free spins are credited automatically for use on Book of Dead.
Start Playing: Explore the game library and sportsbook with your funds and bonus.

Ensure accurate details during registration to avoid issues. The no KYC policy makes JACKBIT one of the best no KYC casinos, ideal for quick access.

How We Selected JACKBIT as The Best Crypto Casino

Our team followed a rigorous evaluation process to identify the top crypto casino, focusing on:

License and Security: A valid license and robust encryption are essential. JACKBIT’s Curacao license and SSL encryption ensure safety.
Bonuses and Promotions: We prioritized casinos with fair and generous offers. JACKBIT’s no-wagering bonuses stood out.
Game Variety: A diverse library from reputable providers is key. JACKBIT’s 7,000+ games cover all categories.
Game Providers: Partnerships with top developers ensure quality. JACKBIT works with NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and others.
Banking Methods: Flexible and fast payment options are crucial. JACKBIT supports multiple cryptocurrencies and fiat methods.
Customer Support: 24/7 availability and responsiveness are vital. JACKBIT’s multilingual support excels.

JACKBIT met and exceeded these criteria, earning its place as the best crypto casino for 2025.

License and Security

JACKBIT operates under a Curacao Gaming License, ensuring compliance with fair gaming standards. Advanced SSL encryption protects player data and transactions. Provably fair games allow outcome verification, enhancing transparency. These measures make JACKBIT a trusted choice among new crypto casinos.

Bonuses and Promotions

JACKBIT offers a range of bonuses to maximize player value:

Best Bonus: 30% Rakeback + 100 Wager Free Spins + No KYC
Welcome Bonus: 100 free spins on Book of Dead with no wagering requirements ($50 minimum deposit).
Sports Welcome Bonus: 100% cashback on a losing first sports bet (minimum $20).
Weekly Giveaways: Compete for $10,000 cash and 10,000 free spins.
VIP Rakeback: Up to 30% rakeback through the Rakeback VIP Club.
Pragmatic Drops & Wins: Tournaments with a €2,000,000 prize pool.
Social Media Bonuses: Exclusive rewards via X engagement.

These promotions position JACKBIT among the best crypto casinos for rewarding experiences.

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Best Crypto Casino Games

JACKBIT’s game library is a cornerstone of its appeal, offering over 7,000 titles across multiple categories:

Online Slots

Slots dominate with thousands of options, from classic 3-reel games to modern video slots. Popular titles include:

Book of Dead (Play’n GO): High-volatility slot with up to 5,000x stake wins.
Starburst (NetEnt): Low-volatility slot with vibrant graphics and expanding wilds.
Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play): Features tumbling reels and multipliers up to 500x.
Mega Moolah (Microgaming): Progressive jackpot slot with massive payout potential.

Slots offer diverse themes, bonus rounds, and high RTPs, making them a favorite among players.

Blackjack

Blackjack combines skill and luck, with players aiming to beat the dealer by reaching 21. JACKBIT offers variants like:

Classic Blackjack
European Blackjack
Multi-hand Blackjack

These options cater to different strategies and preferences.

Roulette

Roulette is a classic game of chance where players bet on a spinning wheel’s outcome. JACKBIT provides:

European Roulette (2.7% house edge)
American Roulette
French Roulette (1.35% house edge with La Partage)

Each variant offers unique betting options and excitement.

Poker

Poker variants at JACKBIT include:

Texas Hold’em
Caribbean Stud
Three Card Poker
Video Poker (e.g., Jacks or Better)

These games appeal to strategic players seeking to outsmart the house.

Live Dealer Games

Live Blackjack: Multiple tables with varying limits.
Live Roulette: Interactive gameplay with real dealers.
Live Baccarat: Fast-paced action.
Game Shows: Crazy Time, Monopoly Live, and Deal or No Deal.

Live games stream in real-time, allowing player-dealer interaction.

Sportsbook

JACKBIT’s sportsbook covers over 140 sports, including:

Football: Major leagues and international tournaments.
Basketball: NBA, EuroLeague, and more.
Tennis: Grand Slams and ATP/WTA events.
eSports: Dota 2, League of Legends, CS:GO.
Live Betting: Real-time wagering with dynamic odds.

With over 82,000 live monthly events, the sportsbook is a major draw.

Specialty Games

For casual play, JACKBIT offers:

Lottery: Instant-result games.
Scratch Cards: Quick wins with simple mechanics.
Virtual Sports: Simulated events for continuous betting.

This diversity ensures JACKBIT remains a top crypto casino for all players.

Casino Game Providers

JACKBIT partners with 85 leading providers to deliver its extensive library:

NetEnt: Renowned for Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest.
Evolution Gaming: Leader in live dealer games.
Pragmatic Play: Offers Gates of Olympus and Drops & Wins.
Microgaming: Pioneer with Mega Moolah and more.
Play’n GO: Creator of Book of Dead.
Others: Yggdrasil, Betsoft, Red Tiger, and more.

These partnerships ensure high-quality, fair, and engaging games, reinforcing JACKBIT’s status among the best Bitcoin casinos.

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Best Crypto Casino Payment Methods

JACKBIT supports a wide array of payment methods, prioritizing speed and security:

Cryptocurrencies

Over 17 cryptocurrencies are accepted, including:

Bitcoin (BTC): Secure and widely used, with instant deposits.
Ethereum (ETH): Fast transactions via smart contracts.
Litecoin (LTC): Low fees and quick confirmations.
Ripple (XRP): Ideal for cross-border payments.
Tether (USDT): Stablecoin for reduced volatility.
Solana (SOL): High-speed blockchain with minimal fees.
Others: Dogecoin, Cardano, Binance Coin, and more.

Advantages Of Crypto:

Anonymity: No personal details required.
Speed: Instant deposits; withdrawals in under 10 minutes.
Low Fees: Minimal transaction costs.
Global Access: No geographic restrictions.

Debit Card / Credit Card

JACKBIT accepts Visa and MasterCard for secure deposits. These methods are familiar but may involve longer processing times for withdrawals.

E-Wallets

While PayPal is not supported, JACKBIT offers Google Pay and Apple Pay for quick, mobile-friendly deposits. These e-wallets provide convenience without sharing bank details.

Bank Transfer

Bank transfers are available for larger transactions, ideal for high rollers. However, they may incur higher fees and take several days to process.

Cryptocurrency vs. Fiat

Cryptocurrencies are the preferred choice at JACKBIT due to their speed and privacy. Fiat methods are reliable but slower, catering to players not yet using crypto.

This flexibility ensures JACKBIT meets the needs of all players, solidifying its place among top crypto casinos.

Customer Support at JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s customer support is a hallmark of its reliability:

Live Chat: Available 24/7, with agents fluent in English, Spanish, French, and more. Response times are typically under a minute.
Email Support: Contact support@jackbit.com for detailed inquiries, with replies within hours.
FAQ Section: Covers registration, payments, bonuses, and technical issues, allowing self-service solutions.
Multilingual Support: Caters to a global audience with multiple language options.

The support team’s professionalism and accessibility enhance the player experience, making JACKBIT a trusted crypto gambling site.

User Experience And Mobile Compatibility

JACKBIT’s website is designed for ease of use:

Intuitive Navigation: Clear menus for games, promotions, and support.
Search Functionality: Quickly find specific games or providers.
Game Filters: Sort by type, popularity, or provider.
Mobile Optimization: Fully responsive site works seamlessly on smartphones and tablets, no app required.
Fast Loading: Optimized for quick access, even for graphics-heavy games.
Language Options: Supports English, French, German, Japanese, and more.

This user-centric design ensures a smooth experience, whether on desktop or mobile, positioning JACKBIT among the best crypto casinos.

VIP Program And Loyalty Rewards

JACKBIT rewards loyalty through its Rakeback VIP Club:

Rakeback: Earn up to 30% rakeback based on wagering activity.
VIP Levels: Higher tiers unlock better rakeback and perks.
Exclusive Bonuses: Personalized offers, free spins, and cashback.
Priority Support: Dedicated account managers for top-tier players.
Tournaments: Events like the Grand Holidays Tournament ($500,000 prize pool).

Additional promotions include:

Weekly Giveaways: $10,000 cash and 10,000 free spins.
Drops & Wins: €2,000,000 prize pool.
Social Media Rewards: Bonuses via X engagement.

These incentives make JACKBIT a rewarding choice for long-term players.

Security Measures

JACKBIT prioritizes player safety:

Curacao License: Ensures regulatory compliance.
SSL Encryption: Protects data and transactions.
Provably Fair Games: Allows outcome verification.
Two-Factor Authentication: Optional for enhanced account security.
Responsible Gambling Tools: Deposit limits, session reminders, self-exclusion.

These measures create a secure environment, reinforcing JACKBIT’s credibility.

Responsible Gambling At Crypto Casinos

JACKBIT promotes responsible gambling with tools to manage gaming:

Deposit Limits: Cap spending to control budgets.
Loss Limits: Restrict losses over a period.
Wagering Limits: Set betting caps.
Session Time Limits: Monitor gaming duration.
Cooling-Off Periods: Temporary account suspension.
Reality Checks: Notifications about playtime.

These features align with industry standards, ensuring player well-being at one of the best crypto casinos.

JACKBIT Conclusion: The Best Crypto Casino

After evaluating numerous crypto gambling sites, JACKBIT emerges as the best crypto casino for 2025. Its vast game library, instant payouts, no KYC policy, and generous bonuses create an unmatched experience. The support for multiple cryptocurrencies and fiat methods ensures accessibility, while 24/7 customer support and robust security measures build trust. The mobile-optimized platform and rewarding VIP program further enhance its appeal.

Whether you’re a slot enthusiast, table game strategist, or sports bettor, JACKBIT delivers. Join today at JACKBIT to experience the future of crypto gambling.

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FAQs About The Best Crypto Casinos

Is JACKBIT safe to use?

JACKBIT’s Curacao license and SSL encryption ensure a secure environment. Provably fair games add transparency, making it a trusted crypto casino.

What cryptocurrencies does JACKBIT support?

JACKBIT accepts over 17 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, Tether, Solana, and Dogecoin, for instant deposits and withdrawals.

Does JACKBIT require KYC verification?

No, JACKBIT’s no KYC policy allows anonymous registration and play, enhancing privacy and speeding up the process for new crypto casino users.

What is JACKBIT’s welcome bonus?

New players get 100 free spins with no wagering requirements on a $50 minimum deposit, usable on Book of Dead.

How fast are withdrawals at JACKBIT?

Cryptocurrency withdrawals are processed in under 10 minutes, making JACKBIT a leader in payout speed among top crypto casinos.

Can I play on JACKBIT from my mobile?

Yes, JACKBIT’s mobile-optimized site offers seamless gameplay on smartphones and tablets via web browsers, no app needed.

What games are available at JACKBIT?

JACKBIT offers over 7,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer options, sports betting, and specialty games like lottery.

Is there a VIP program at JACKBIT?

Yes, the Rakeback VIP Club offers up to 30% rakeback, exclusive bonuses, and priority support for loyal players.

Can I use fiat currency at JACKBIT?

Yes, JACKBIT supports Visa, MasterCard, bank transfers, Google Pay, and Apple Pay for secure fiat transactions.

How do I contact JACKBIT support?

Support is available 24/7 via live chat or email at support@jackbit.com, with prompt, multilingual assistance.

EMAIL: support@jackbit.com

Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

General Disclaimer

This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. The content is based on research and user reviews, but no warranties are made. Players must verify all information before acting, as online gambling carries inherent risks. Ensure you meet your jurisdiction’s legal gambling age before participating.

Casino and Gambling Disclaimer

Online gambling involves risks and may not be suitable for everyone. Gambling laws vary by jurisdiction, and compliance is your responsibility. We do not promote gambling, and participation is at your own risk. JACKBIT is a third-party platform, and we are not liable for any losses or disputes arising from its use. Always gamble responsibly and seek professional advice if needed.

Affiliate Disclosure

This article may contain affiliate links, which earn us a commission at no additional cost to you for qualifying actions. These links help support our content creation. Our reviews remain unbiased, and we only recommend products and platforms we believe offer genuine value. Conduct your own research before signing up or making deposits to ensure JACKBIT meets your needs.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b39b2889-fe38-4424-8931-e5912e823686

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sotheby’s Hong Kong Postpones the Auction of Piprahwa Buddhist Relics Following Intervention by Ministry of Culture
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 3:45PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has successfully secured the postponement of the auction of the sacred Piprahwa Buddhist relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong, which was scheduled for May 7, 2025.

The Piprahwa Relics, comprising bone fragments of the Historical Buddha, along with soapstone and crystal caskets, a sandstone coffer, and offerings such as gold ornaments and gemstones, were excavated in 1898 by William Claxton Peppé. An inscription in Brahmi script on one of the caskets confirms these as relics of the Buddha, deposited by the Sakya clan. The majority of these relics were transferred to the Indian Museum, Kolkata, in 1899 and are classified as ‘AA’ antiquities under Indian law, prohibiting their removal or sale. A portion of the bone relics was gifted to the King of Siam, while a selection of funerary gems retained by W.C. Peppé’s great-grandson, Chris Peppé, was listed for auction.

Upon learning of the auction through media reports, the Ministry of Culture immediately initiated the following actions:
- On May 2, 2025, the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) wrote to the Consulate General of Hong Kong, requesting the immediate cessation of the auction.
- During a bilateral meeting on the same day, Culture Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat raised the matter with Rt Hon Lisa Nandy, UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, emphasizing the relics’ cultural and religious significance and urging immediate action.
- On May 5, 2025, the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, convened a review meeting to discuss next steps.
- A legal notice was issued to Sotheby’s (through representatives Ms. Ivy Wong and Julian King) and Chris Peppé on the same day, demanding the auction’s halt.
- The Ministry of External Affairs was requested to follow up through its Europe West and East Asia Divisions with embassies in the UK and Hong Kong to ensure the auction’s stoppage.
On May 5, 2025, Sotheby’s Hong Kong acknowledged the legal notice via email, assuring that the matter was under consideration and a written reply would be submitted.

On May 6, 2025, a high-level delegation led by the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, including the Joint Secretary (East Asia Division, MEA) and the Consul General of India to Hong Kong, held discussions with Sotheby’s representatives. The delegation highlighted that the relics were not ordinary artifacts but held sacred significance for millions of Buddhists worldwide. It was further emphasized that the relics rightfully belong to India, from where they were taken during the colonial era.

Late on May 6, 2025, Sotheby’s Hong Kong informed via email that the auction of the Piprahwa relics was being postponed and proposed further discussions. The auction page was subsequently removed from Sotheby’s website.

The Ministry’s efforts were supported by – The Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO, Krista Pikkat, Director, UNESCO, Buddhist organizations from India, Sri Lanka, and other countries, Prof. Naman Ahuja, who filed a representation with the Prime Minister’s portal and national and international media.

The Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the ASI and MEA, will now engage all stakeholders to advance discussions on the repatriation of the relics to India.

***

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2127516) Visitor Counter : 25

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Transportation and communications in remote scenic spots

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Lam So-wai and a reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

Question: It has been reported that earlier on, due to the severe inadequacy of ancillary transport facilities at the East Dam of the High Island Reservoir (East Dam), numerous visitors were left stranded there in the evening. Some taxi drivers even took advantage of this situation by overcharging. Furthermore, some members of the public have relayed insufficient mobile network coverage in the area, which has adversely affected public communications and their ability to seek assistance. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of park located east of Fan Kam Road

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced today (May 7) that the park located east of Fan Kam Road (i.e. area of holes 1-8 of the Old Course of the Fanling Golf Course) will be temporarily closed from May 12 to 15 and May 23 to 30 for organising golf competitions. The fee-charging carpark and the 5-a-side hard-surface soccer pitches in the park will not be affected and will remain open for public use.

Upon completion of the event, the LCSD will reopen the park facilities after inspection and maintenance. For enquiries, please contact the venue staff at 2295 3118.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Ticketing arrangements for large-scale stage performances

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Leung Man-kwong and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

Question:

It has been reported that recently, after admission tickets of a concert held in the Main Stadium of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) were put on sale through the ticket sales platform, there has been a spate of disputes involving the chaotic ticket exchange arrangements and obstructed views of some seats located in areas where the view was obstructed but the relevant platform had not marked prior to sale, etc., which have aroused strong dissatisfaction among the public. There are views that such situations may affect the confidence of the public and tourists in Hong Kong’s capability in hosting large-scale performances. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether the authorities have required organisers of commercial performances held at government venues to provide the relevant departments with clear ticketing plans in renting venues, such as information on the ticket-vending mechanisms, the number of tickets available for sale, the ticket collection arrangements, and the disclosure standards for seating information (including marking of areas with obstructed views); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) as it is learnt that ticket sales platforms collected handling charge from ticket buyers but failed to offer proper post-sale arrangements for those affected by the aforesaid situations, of the regulatory measures currently put in place by the Government on the platforms responsible for selling tickets of activities held at public venues, and how it would assist consumers in recovering loss;

(3) whether the authorities will study requiring ticket sale companies responsible for selling tickets of commercial performances held at government venues to adopt “identity-bound ticket limit” and “delayed ticket transfer mechanism” (e.g. ticket transfer must be processed through the official platforms), so as to curb the problem of ticket scalping; and

(4) whether consideration will be given to including a requirement of providing the electronic ticket exchange function in the new contract between government venues (such as the KTSP) and ticketing agencies, so as to ensure that members of the public are not required to go to the venues in person to exchange their tickets?

Reply:

President:

In consultation with the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Leung Man-kwong is as follows:

Hirers of performance venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) are required to obtain the LCSD’s approval on the ticket price scale, the seating plan and the ticketing system before the commencement of ticket sales. The seating plan shall indicate seats that are available for sale with prices specified, those with sightline problems or blocked due to technical reasons, and those for which complimentary tickets are to be issued.

The Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) has fully commissioned since March 2025, with the Kai Tak Sports Park Limited (KTSPL) being responsible for its daily operation under a “Design, Build and Operate” contract. The ticketing arrangements for events held at the various venues within the KTSP, including the choice of ticketing platform, are decided by individual event organisers. The KTSPL has already uploaded the seating plan of the three major venues to its website for public reference, and will maintain close liaison with event organisers regarding the arrangements of seats available for sale for individual events. As the stage design and venue usage of different events at the KTSP vary, event organisers will specify the seats with restricted view when selling tickets on the ticketing platform. These seats will also be marked as restricted view on the relevant tickets.

Subject to the requirements of event organisers, ticketing platforms offer different ticket collection arrangements, including the use of physical tickets and/or e-tickets. Some concerts/events held at the LCSD’s performance venues and the KTSP adopt the use of physical tickets, where audiences collect their tickets by such means as ticket delivery or at self-service ticketing kiosks, etc. after their purchase. E-ticket function is also available on URBTIX under the LCSD, events taking place at the KTSP could also use e-tickets as well. If an organiser chooses to adopt the use of e-tickets, their patrons could be admitted to the programmes by presenting either the e-ticket image in the confirmation email received, or the e-ticket QR code stored in the mobile app(s) to the venue staff for scanning and verification. At the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens recently held in the KTSP, the organiser opted to use e-tickets. Audiences had to download the relevant app on their smartphones to redeem their e-tickets and present such tickets upon entry by opening the app concerned.

Apart from ticket collection arrangements, ticketing platforms offer different ticketing proposals to cater to the needs of event organisers. For example, when handling ticketing for large-scale and popular events, URBTIX under the LCSD liaises with the organisers on ticketing proposals which cater to individual programmes (including adopting real-name ticketing arrangement); offering Internet, mobile app and telephone booking services only; setting a cap for the number of tickets each patron can purchase per transaction as well as imposing a limit on the number of tickets that can be purchased with the same credit card on the first day of ticket sales; increasing the transparency of ticketing information; implementing delayed ticket collection arrangement; and encouraging organisers to increase the ratio of tickets for public sale, etc. We note that other ticketing platforms also offer similar arrangements such as real-name ticketing arrangement and setting a cap for the number of tickets that can be purchased, etc.

Each ticketing platform has its own customer services arrangement, such as providing ticketing enquiries and after-sales supporting services. In addition, the Consumer Council (the Council) carries out its statutory functions in accordance with the Consumer Council Ordinance (Cap. 216), including the handling of complaints relating to goods and services of and the provision of advice to consumers, as well as conciliating disputes between consumers and traders. If consumers consider that the organisers and/or ticketing platforms have not handled the matters in relation to event tickets properly or have failed to reach a consensus with them, consumers may lodge a complaint with and seek assistance from the Council on conciliation.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ15: Promoting pop culture industry

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Kenneth Fok and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

Question:

The Government in the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (the Blueprint) published in November last year explicitly proposed that Hong Kong should be developed into a “capital of pop culture”. Measures include promoting the development of the pop culture industry, supporting the innovative development of pop culture, and promoting the organisation of more events such as concerts and music festivals. However, some members of the industry have relayed that the existing measures on venue provision, ancillary support and talent nurturing are not in line with the policy objectives, which affect the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s pop culture. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) of the details of the use of the venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) for organising pop culture activities in the past three years, including the venues involved, the number of sessions of the programmes held, the types of activities, the number of participants and the utilisation rates of seats (set out in a table);

(2) as some members of the industry have relayed that it is difficult for emerging artists and independent groups to be allocated time slots in LCSD venues, whether the Government will review the existing venue allocation mechanism and scoring criteria, so as to address the industry’s demand for small and medium-sized commercial performance venues; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(3) given that the 2022 Policy Address has proposed to increase the number of seats at performance venues by about 50 per cent, of the number of newly-built or converted venues and the number of additional seats at present, and whether it has reviewed if the progress of work in achieving this policy objective is in line with expectations;

(4) whether the authorities will comprehensively enhance the relevant measures to solve the problem of insufficient performance venues for the pop culture industry (including reviewing the Venue Partnership Scheme to increase the quota for small and medium-sized performing groups; enhancing the transparency of the scoring criteria for booking LCSD venues; relaxing the restriction on the use of some government venues (e.g. sports grounds and vacant school premises) for performances; and studying the provision of dedicated venues for pop culture); if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that; and

(5) given that the Blueprint has proposed to promote the private sector to organise more pop culture events in Hong Kong, of the authorities’ specific plans in place to encourage enterprises and investors to support the development of local pop culture, and whether it will provide incentives to attract more market resources, so as to assist the industry in exploring commercial performance opportunities and support the nurturing of talents for the industry?

Replyï¼š

Presidentï¼š

Hong Kong’s unique pop culture is an important brand of our culture. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government endeavours to promote the development of pop culture, with a view to developing Hong Kong into the “capital of pop culture”, in accordance with the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (the Blueprint), consolidating Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West Centre for international cultural exchange.

In consultation with the Development Bureau, my reply to the question raised by the Hon Kenneth Fok is as follows:

(1) The number of performances and attendance of pop culture activities held at the performance venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) in the past three years are tabulated as follows (with numbers of attendance in parenthesis):

Venue / Year 2022 (Note 3) 2023 2024

Stadia (Note 1) 90
(667 954) 114
(803 632) 117
(938 522)

Performing arts venues (Note 2) 420
(82 562) 607
(125 764) 721
(133 318)

Note 1: Stadia include the Hong Kong Coliseum and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium.
Note 2: Performing arts venues include the Hong Kong Culture Centre, the Hong Kong City Hall, the Sheung Wan Civic Centre, the Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre, the Ko Shan Theatre, the Ngau Chi Wan Civic Centre, the Sha Tin Town Hall, the North District Town Hall, the Tsuen Wan Town Hall, the Kwai Tsing Theatre, the Tuen Mun Town Hall and the Yuen Long Theatre. The Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre was closed for the renovation and improvement project since April 2022.
Note 3: Owing to COVID-19, all performance venues were closed for 104 days in 2022.

(2) to (4) The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), the LCSD and the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) etc., endeavour to provide venues for various arts and culture activities. We are aware that there has been a strong demand for performance venues from the public as well as the arts and culture sectors. Therefore, we have been building new performance venues and upgrading existing facilities over the past few years. The newly built East Kowloon Cultural Centre and the upgraded Tai Po Civic Centre and Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre are expected to open in full this year; The WestK Performing Arts Centre is expected to be completed in 2026; and we are also building the New Territories East Cultural Centre. A total of around 8 300 seats will be available at these performance venues. Besides, the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) officially commissioned on March 1, 2025, providing venues for hosting large-scale pop culture events.

Since its full commissioning in March 2025, the KTSP has provided an option of a brand-new and attractive venue for sports and cultural mega events in Hong Kong, including concerts and pop culture events. The KTSP features a 50 000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, a 10 000-seat Kai Tak Arena, a 5 000-seat Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground and other ancillary facilities. In the past two months, various large-scale concerts of various renowned international, Asian and local bands and singers took place at the Kai Tak Stadium and Kai Tak Arena.

The Government has also been supporting small and medium-sized arts groups and emerging artists through various measures, such as providing funding support for large-scale and cross-year arts and cultural initiatives/activities through the Arts Capacity Development Funding Scheme. Programme offices of the LCSD also provide support to local small and medium-sized arts groups and emerging artists through different modes of collaboration to promote continuous innovation and development of arts groups in Hong Kong.

We are reviewing the usage and hiring arrangements of our venues (including reviewing the Venue Partnership Scheme), with an aim to make more effective use of venues resources, offer more booking slots for use of different arts groups and cater for the needs of the arts and culture sectors, thereby building a vibrant, diverse and flourishing ecosystem. On setting up of a dedicated venue for pop culture, the LCSD is currently identifying a suitable site for the Pop Culture Centre, and will discuss with and consult various stakeholders and expert advisers on related matters, such as the long-term planning and facilities of the Pop Culture Centre etc., with a view to formulating appropriate plans for developing it into a cultural landmark and tourism hotspot.

The public pleasure grounds under the LCSD have all along been open to applications for non-designated uses, such as charitable activities or festive celebrations. When processing relevant applications, the LCSD will consider factors such as the proposed duration of hire, the area to be hired, as well as the purpose and nature of the activity. Given the very keen public demand for sports facilities, the LCSD will strive to strike a balance to meet the needs of different venue users.

On the use of school venues, the Government has launched the Pilot Scheme on the Use of School Venues by Arts Groups in 2024 to open up parts of school venues for rehearsals by arts groups after school hours on a pilot basis. Any organisation/institution that wishes to use vacant school premises (VSP) for long-term or short-term uses could liaise and seek support from the relevant policy bureau(s) for its application of using the VSP.

(5) On promoting the development of local pop culture and industries, LCSD has been collaborating with the sector to organise the annual Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival (PCF) since 2023. The first two editions of PCF attracted about 530 000 and over 640 000 participants respectively. The third edition of PCF is being held from April to July 2025 with the theme “More Than Joy” to promote Hong Kong’s unique comedy. PCF offers rich and diverse activities, supports local young artists and emerging art groups, and promotes cross-generation and cross-genre collaboration. We will step up the promotion of pop culture programmes to the Mainland and overseas facilitate Hong Kong’s pop culture to “go global”, thereby establishing overseas collaboration networks for local artists and the brand of PCF.

The CSTB has been supporting mega arts and cultural events organised by the private sector or non-governmental organisations in Hong Kong through the Mega Arts and Cultural Events (ACE) Fund, including mega events on pop culture such as ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025 and Hypefest Hong Kong 2024. The Mega ACE Fund has enhanced its operation since January 1, 2025. To enhance the level of participation of commercial organisations, matching grant has been introduced in the new application mechanism. The initiative aims to encourage the event organisers to solicit commercial sponsorship, thereby boosting the market feasibility and business potential of events and to follow the over-arching principle of industry building.

Besides, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) actively makes use of its museums, performing arts venues and public spaces to promote pop culture through various cultural and artistic programmes. For example, the WKCDA held “WestK POPFEST” in 2023 and 2024, which has been sponsored by private enterprises for two consecutive years, has brought together local young singers and groups, blending pop culture with artistic creation. The events were well-received by music fans, attracting over 60 000 participants in 2024, breaking the attendance record for different types of music festivals held in the WKCD over the years.

The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) continues supporting the co-production of television variety programmes by local television stations with their counterparts in the Mainland and Asia through the CreateSmart Initiative, so as to help the industry explore business showcasing opportunities in the Mainland and overseas, uplift the soft power of Hong Kong pop culture and enhance economic benefits. The scheme has so far accepted two rounds of applications. Eight project had been approved, among which five were broadcast.

On talent nurturing, sponsored by the CCIDA, the “Make Music Work – Music Creation and Production Talents Nurturing Scheme” was launched in 2019 to support the development of emerging local music talent. In the latest edition, 12 units each comprising a composer, lyric writer and arranger were matched with experienced music producers and singing units for a series of support and training to produce original songs, and were provided with a platform and live concert to release and perform their original songs, so as to promote local original music development.

We will continue to foster the industry to explore private market and investment actively, as well as exploring business showcasing opportunities and support talent nurturing of the industries, so as to align with the strategic directions of the Blueprint.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ11: Measures to revitalise industrial buildings

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Jimmy Ng and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

Question:

The 2024 Policy Address proposed to extend an array of measures to revitalise industrial buildings (IBs) until the end of 2027, including continuing to allow an increase in plot ratio of up to 20 per cent for IB redevelopment projects and exempting the restriction that 10 per cent of the gross floor area of IBs constructed before 1987 (pre-1987 IBs) be used for purposes designated by the Government after conversion. Moreover, at the end of 2023, the Government has extended the arrangement for charging land premium at standard rates for lease modifications to IBs for special industrial use. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) of the number of applications under the various IB revitalisation measures received, approved and rejected by the Government in the past three years, with a breakdown by individual measure; the average time required to vet and approve applications under the various IB revitalisation measures;

(2) given that the authorities currently allow an increase in plot ratio of up to 20 per cent for redevelopment projects of pre-1987 IBs, whether it will consider extending the scope of the relevant arrangement to include IBs constructed after 1987 (post-1987 IBs); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(3) of the number of applications received, approved and rejected by the Government to date under the arrangement for charging land premium at standard rates in respect of lease modifications involving IBs for special industrial use; whether it will study extending the scope of the arrangement to include post-1987 IBs; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(4) as the Government indicated last year that it would consider approving individual units on the lower floors of IBs to be used as eating places, whether any such cases have been approved to date; if so, of the details of such cases; whether it will consider allowing lower floor units in IBs that meet the relevant safety standards to be used for more purposes, e.g. retail and exhibition use; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(5) given that the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 proposes to encourage the trade to develop tourism products featuring the elements of Made in Hong Kong industries, whether the Government will introduce further IB revitalisation measures to support the aforesaid work, e.g. whether it will consider relaxing the policy on waivers of land lease restrictions to allow enterprises in the industrial tourism sector to operate in individual units within existing IBs without having to separately apply for waivers of land lease restrictions or pay the waiver fee; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(6) whether it will study extending the scope of the Youth Hostel Scheme and the student hostel pilot scheme to include IBs after wholesale conversion; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

(7) whether it will regularise all existing measures to revitalise IBs; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

The Government reactivated the Revitalisation Scheme for Industrial Buildings (Revitalisation Scheme) in 2018 which encourages redevelopment or wholesale conversion of aged industrial buildings (IB), mainly to make more effective use of the sites on which IBs are situated or the existing IBs per se to optimise the use of precious land resources, and to address fire safety and unauthorised use issues of aged IBs more effectively.

â€‹My reply to various parts of the question is as follows:

(1) On the redevelopment of IBs, the prevailing policy allows relaxation of the maximum permitted non-domestic plot ratio up to 20 per cent to provide incentives to private owners to redevelop IBs constructed before 1987 (pre-1987 IBs). In the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), excluding applications withdrawn by applicants, the Town Planning Board (TPB) received a total of 11 applications for relaxation of plot ratio for redevelopment of IBs, among which nine cases (involving eight sites) were approved, and the remaining two cases are being processed. Planning applications submitted in accordance with section 16 of the Town Planning Ordinance are to be considered by the TPB within two months upon receipt. Among the nine approved planning applications, six of them have applications made to the Lands Department (LandsD) for lease modification which shall be subject to payment of premium, among which two cases have been withdrawn by the applicants and four cases have been approved and are currently under land premium assessment. The owners of these four applications opted for conventional premium assessment (viz. not opting for standard rates arrangement for charging land premium). As for the remaining three cases among the aforesaid nine approved planning applications, the LandsD has yet to receive relevant application for lease modification.

For wholesale conversion of IBs, the prevailing policy exempts waiver fees so as to encourage private owners to convert IBs aged 15 years or above in “Commercial”, “Other Specified Uses” annotated “Business” and “Industrial” zones for uses permitted under the relevant Outline Zoning Plans. The condition is that for IBs constructed in or after 1987, not less than 10 per cent of the converted floor space must be used for purposes designated by the Government (such as arts and cultural studios, incubators for innovation and technology start-ups). Such requirement on 10 per cent floor space does not apply to pre-1987 IBs. In the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), excluding applications withdrawn by applicants, the LandsD received a total of two applications for wholesale conversion of IBs, with one case approved and the other one being processed. The processing time for the approved case was around 20 months. The relatively long time taken was mainly due to the negotiations regarding the specified use and the related arrangement for the 10 per cent designated floor space when the owner submitted the waiver application to the LandsD. It is worth noting that, under the first round of Revitalisation Scheme launched by the Government from 2010 to 2016, around 110 applications for wholesale conversion were received. We do not rule out the possibility that a significant portion of the IBs suitable for wholesale conversion in the market may have already undergone conversion works. After the Revitalisation Scheme was reactivated in 2018, the number of applications received and cases approved for redevelopment of IBs have been significantly higher than that of the first round, reflecting greater market interest in the redevelopment measure in the current round.

(2) The measure for encouraging redevelopment of IBs as mentioned in part (1) above targets pre-1987 IBs situated outside “Residential” zones in main urban areas and new towns. We have designated 1987 as the dividing line because the fire safety installations and equipment of pre-1987 IBs may not comply with the Code of Practice for Minimum Fire Service Installations and Equipment as revised by the Fire Services Department (FSD) in 1987, including the requirement of installing automatic sprinkler systems. From the perspective of public safety, there is a need to provide policy incentives to encourage foremost the redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs so as to meet modern standards of fire safety installation. As for post-1987 IBs, the Government currently has no plan to extend the measure concerning redevelopment to these IBs. Nevertheless, if owners wish to redevelop these IBs for non-industrial uses, they may still submit a planning application to the TPB for increasing the plot ratio. The TPB will consider the applications from a planning perspective based on the actual circumstances of each case.

(3) The Government provides a regularised standard rates arrangement for charging land premium for the redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs as an alternative to the conventional premium assessment mechanism. The policy objective is to continuously incentivise the redevelopment of aged IBs, giving IB owners greater certainty in planning redevelopment. This encourages the redevelopment of aged IBs for optimising land utilisation, expediting urban renewal and revitalisation of IBs to meet the current needs of the society.

The Government announced in December 2023 to expand the coverage of the standard rates arrangement for charging land premium to cover redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs for special industrial uses (e.g. leather tanning, garment manufacturing and food production). Regarding IBs for special industrial uses, in the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), the LandsD has received a total of four applications for lease modification for redevelopment of such pre-1987 IBs, among which one case is currently under land premium assessment with the applicant having opted for conventional premium assessment. The remaining three cases are being processed.

The policy objective as mentioned in part (2) above, viz. to encourage redevelopment of pre-1987 IBs, also applies to the lease modification of IBs for special industrial uses. Therefore, we currently have no plan to extend the standard rates arrangement for charging premium to post-1987 IBs for special industrial uses.

The Government will continue to closely monitor the implementation of standard rates arrangement for charging premium for redevelopment of IBs and make adjustments as and when necessary. The latest enhancement measure was rolled out last month, which separated the standard rates for the two uses under the previous “commercial/modern industrial” use after lease modification, into “modern industrial” and “commercial” uses respectively. Such separation can better reflect the land value of redeveloped IBs intended for modern industrial use and cope with the increasing demand for modern industrial sites.

(4) Having balanced the need for public safety and optimisation of IB floor space, the Government would also exercise discretion in allowing the co-existence of industrial and non-industrial uses. Under the Revitalisation Scheme, apart from the measures mentioned in part (1) above, the Government has since 2018 relaxed the waiver application policy for IBs with fragmented ownership and yet to undergo wholesale conversion, so as to allow individual units of existing IBs to be used for specified non-industrial uses other than those permitted under the relevant land leases. Specifically, owner of individual IB units may use the units, without having to apply for a short-term waiver from the LandsD and pay waiver fees, for five specified non-industrial uses, which include “Art Studio”, “Office (Design and Media Production)”, “Office (Audio-visual Recording Studio)”, “Office (used by “specific creative industries” including design and media production companies, printing and publishing, film companies and industry organisations related to the film industry), as well as “Research, Design and Development Centre”.

As IBs are supposed to be used for industrial purposes, and the risk of fire and other accidents involved in these industrial purposes is relatively higher, in view of public safety, the uses covered by the above relaxation measure do not include any uses or activities that directly provide services or goods to attract public visits. If IB owners intend to convert some units for industrial tourism uses (e.g. opening up production line for the public and tourists to visit), we will consult the FSD and relevant departments when we receive the waiver applications.

If there is a buffer floor within an IB which completely separates the lower floors from the upper portion with industrial uses, an owner may convert the premises on the lowest three floors of the IB to other non-industrial uses, including shops and services, restaurants, or arts and cultural activities, subject to payment of waiver fees and compliance with planning and other relevant requirements. Earlier, we have also broadened the permissible uses of buffer floors to cover “telecommunications exchange centres” and “computer/data processing centres”. In the past three years (viz. April 2022 to end-March 2025), the LandsD has not received any waiver application for partial conversion of the lowest three floors of IBs (including for eating place use).

(5) The Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 promulgated by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau in December 2024 puts forward four major development strategies covering product development, visitor source expansion, technological innovation and service enhancement, as well as 133 measures to be implemented between 2025 and 2029 to promote development, including promoting the development of tourism products related to “Made in Hong Kong” industrial elements. The Development Bureau (DEVB) will provide facilitation as and when necessary.

(6) As announced in the 2024 Policy Address, in order to strengthen the position of Hong Kong as an international hub for post-secondary education, the Education Bureau and the DEVB will launch a scheme in the first half of 2025 to streamline the processing of approvals in respect of planning, land administration and approval of building plans, so as to encourage the market to convert hotels and other commercial buildings into student hostels on a self-financing and privately-funded basis, thereby increasing the supply of student hostels. This scheme will apply to commercial buildings which are wholesale-converted from aged IBs.

On the other hand, in response to young people’s aspirations of having their own living space, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) will, as announced in the 2022 Policy Address and the Youth Development Blueprint, expand the Youth Hostel Scheme (YHS) and continue fully funding non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to construct youth hostels on under-utilised sites, and subsidise NGOs to rent suitable hotels and guesthouses for converting into youth hostels. The HYAB will also explore with the DEVB the launching of a site under the Land Sale Programme whereby developers will be required to reserve a certain number of flats to support the YHS on a pilot basis. So far, seven youth hostels have been launched for operation under the YHS, and the number of hostel places has increased substantially from 80 at the commencement of the current-term Government to about 3 000 at present.

(7) To continue encouraging redevelopment and wholesale conversion of aged IBs, the Government announced in the 2024 Policy Address the extension of the time-limited revitalisation measures for IBs up to December 2027, with enhancement of the measure on wholesale conversion. We will review the effectiveness of the Revitalisation Scheme in transforming industrial areas, and make reference to the results of a territory-wide Area Assessment on industrial land to be carried out by the Planning Department, with a view to announcing the way forward for the revitalisation measures before expiry in end-2027.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fresh Start for EIT’s Supported Learners as New Programme and Purpose-Built Facility Open

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

2 minutes ago

Students in EIT’s supported learning programme are celebrating a new beginning, returning to the Hawke’s Bay campus with a refreshed curriculum, a custom-designed learning space, and a teaching team made up entirely of EIT graduates.

The newly renamed New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Learning and Working (Level 1) replaces a previous qualification and reflects a significant shift in both content and delivery.

EIT graduates Mel Gregory, Pete McLachlan, Georgia Blair and Kelly Dickson are now working as Learning Facilitators for the New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Learning and Working (Level 1), while fellow graduate Janine Blamey is a lecturer on the programme.

Programme Coordinator Les Blair says it is a fresh start in every sense.

“It is a new programme, new space and new team – new, new, new.”

The return to EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale comes after more than two years based at Equippers Church Napier, where staff and students took refuge following Cyclone Gabrielle.

Students marked the end of their time at Equippers Church by crafting a commemorative tile plaque.

“We made great relationships in the community, but it’s good to be home,” Les said.

“We’re just so grateful that people took our advice about what the space needed. It’s a welcoming place for the students to be in,” Blair said.

“There’s now a real sense that we’re EIT students again.”

The new facility includes a homeroom and a flexible classroom setup, with digital tools that support collaborative learning – improving accessibility and allowing students to move more freely.

The transition from temporary facilities to a permanent home marks more than just a change of address. For Les and her team, it signals a reconnection with the wider EIT community — and a chance to reset expectations for students.

“That’s a really positive shift.”

The newly assembled teaching team includes five graduates from EIT’s School of Health and Sport Science, several of whom have transitioned from student placements to staff roles.

“They’ve brought not just their own journey but the skills and technologies from their training. It’s exciting to see former students come full circle.”

Dr Andrew Garrett, Head of School, Health and Sport Science, said: “Les and her team do an excellent job on the skills for living programme”.

“Providing a really valuable contribution to the community. It’s great to see they now have purpose built facilities on the campus with their students joining the vibrant student community.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Ads Reveals Interactive Ad Formats, the Samsung Television Network, and Full-Funnel Performance Solutions at NewFronts 2025

Source: Samsung

At IAB NewFronts 2025, Samsung Ads, the advanced advertising division of Samsung Electronics, is calling on brands to go beyond the status quo and unlock the full performance potential of connected TV (CTV).
Kicking off the suite of announcements at NewFronts is the debut of STN, the Samsung Television Network, the broad-FAST channel of the future available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, the #1 FAST app on Samsung Smart TVs. Offering an extensive slate of live sports, music, movies, and late-night programming, which will give brands unique opportunities to tap into the full power of the Samsung TV ecosystem at an unrivaled scale. Additionally, Samsung Ads is also unveiling a bold lineup of interactive and innovative, data-driven solutions including Optimal Reach, GameBreaks, Performance Conversion, and Data+, further transforming TV from a mass-reach channel into a powerful, performance-driven service built to achieve a multitude of advertiser KPIs.
At the nexus of hardware, software, and advertising, Samsung Ads is transforming how brands connect with consumers across every screen. As the world’s #1 Smart TV brand for 19 years running with an unmatched ecosystem that spans across mobile and the entire connected home, over one billion consumers trust Samsung to power the moments that matter most. From interactive experiences to custom content, Samsung Ads turns attention into action and connects brands with audiences in the most meaningful and measurable ways.
“It’s no longer enough for marketers to justify the status quo—they need breakthrough performance, and that’s exactly what Samsung Ads is built to deliver,” said Michael Scott, Vice President & Head of Ad Sales & Operations at Samsung Ads. “This year, we’re empowering our partners to go beyond the limits of traditional CTV with next-gen innovation, strategic partnerships, and tools that turn attention into action and media into measurable impact.”
Samsung TV Plus Introduces Samsung Television Network; Doubles Down on Top Content Creators and Exclusive Partnerships
Announced today, Samsung Television Network (STN) is a broad-FAST channel that brings viewers a curated selection of Samsung TV Plus’ most in-demand programming and A-list talent—from the Legends of Late Night David Letterman and Conan O’Brien to Emmy-winning series like Killing Eve—along with live sports and must-see events. Samsung Television Network will also serve as the live exclusive home for the Jonas Brothers’ upcoming tour. Advertisers can tap into the full power of Samsung’s TV ecosystem, elevating their brands around the network’s premier programming with touchpoints spanning the Samsung home screen, Samsung TV Plus UI, and interactive ads within commercial breaks.
“As the #1 streaming service on Samsung TVs, we’re not just following viewer trends—we’re shaping them,” said Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus. “Through deep insights and personalized curation, we’re delivering the content audiences love in an unbeatable format. We’re rewriting the rules of streaming and teaming up with A-list talent to bring exclusive entertainment to the biggest screen in the home. This strategy has fueled more than 30% viewership growth this year, and with our newly announced partnerships, we’re positioning Samsung TV Plus for even greater momentum and market leadership in the year ahead.”

Premium Programming and Exclusive Experiences
Samsung TV Plus is experiencing a banner year for growth, surpassing 88 million monthly active users, and now offers an industry-leading lineup of nearly 700 channels in addition to its extensive on-demand library. With 92% of first-time viewers continuing to watch beyond the three-month mark—Samsung TV Plus outperforms the competition when it comes to viewer value and stickiness.
Samsung TV Plus is a go-to partner for the biggest talent in the business—and to prove it, the ‘Legend of Late Night’ himself, David Letterman, joined Samsung on-stage during its NewFront presentation to discuss his award-winning, exclusive Samsung TV Plus channel, Letterman TV.
Samsung TV Plus announced it is expanding its live event lineup with the Living the Dream Tour, offering fans exclusive access to the Jonas Brothers’ tour kicking off at MET LIFE Stadium on August 10th. Viewers can experience exhilarating performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and their favorite songs performed live—all from the biggest screen in the home.
In another first, Samsung TV Plus is partnering with the global leader in podcasts, Spotify, to deliver a dedicated channel from ‘The Ringer,’ which is home to some of the most popular podcasts and most recognizable talent in sports and pop culture, exclusively to Samsung TV Plus. The channel will feature a curated lineup of video podcast episodes where fans can enjoy the best of their favorite shows such as Book of Basketball 2.0 with Bill Simmons, The Rewatchables, Higher Learning, and The Ringer-Verse, all in one place in a lean-back TV experience on the biggest screen in the house.
Building on this momentum, the service unveiled its commitment to bringing standout creators to audiences nationwide, announcing new partnerships with some of the country’s top talent—including former NASA engineer turned mega-creator Mark Rober, whose STEM programming inspires and excites tens of millions of viewers across all ages along with top content creator Dhar Mann whose uplifting and inspiring family-friendly dramas tackle universal human truths.
Additional content arriving on Samsung TV Plus:
A-list Top Content Creators Take Center Stage
Samsung TV Plus’s exclusive partnerships with Creators will feature new channels from top talent. Joining the service are Michelle Khare, Smosh, The Try Guys, Epic Gardening, The Sorry Girls, and Donut Media—bringing fan-favorite content that taps into passions from comedy, DIY, gardening, cars, and sustainability.

VIP Access to the Biggest Moments
Billboard: Launching this summer, through a new and exclusive partnership with Billboard, Samsung TV Plus is bringing the iconic brand to FAST. This new network will give fans VIP red carpet access to over 25 of the industry’s most iconic events, including live red carpets and coverage of tentpole cultural events, such as the Golden Globes and the Billboard Music Awards. Samsung TV Plus will also be the co-exclusive home for Billboard News, premiering new episodes weekly.

Free Sports Streaming Just Got Even Bigger
Samsung TV Plus now has one of the largest FAST sports offerings with over 50 channels and gives fans access to live local and national games from major and minor leagues with unparalleled sports coverage. New sports channels include Bally Sports Live with exclusive Minor League Baseball games and in-season NHL games from the Anaheim Ducks and the Dallas Stars with Victory+.

From the Stage to Your Screen
SMTOWN 2025: Samsung TV Plus is partnering with SM Entertainment to launch a dedicated SMTOWN channel, expanding its commitment to delivering the best-in-class K-Content to fans worldwide. The new channel will kick off with SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in L.A.—a star-studded 30th anniversary concert streaming live from Los Angeles on May 11, exclusively on Samsung TV Plus.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Best New Online Casinos: JACKBIT Voted #1 Online Casino for New Crypto Players
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- Superior Payment Flexibility: Supporting 17+ cryptocurrencies and fiat options like Google Pay and Apple Pay, JACKBIT provides faster, fee-free payouts compared to many other platforms. This flexibility enhances its appeal among the best new online casinos.
- Innovative Bonuses: JACKBIT’s 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins welcome offer, combined with unique promotions like social media bonuses and weekly giveaways, deliver more value than standard deposit matches found at other brand new online casinos.
- Robust Sportsbook: While many crypto casinos focus solely on casino games, JACKBIT’s sportsbook, with 82,000+ live events and 4,500+ betting types, caters to sports betting enthusiasts, adding a unique dimension to its offerings.
- Global Accessibility: Multilingual support in English, German, French, and Spanish, paired with a mobile-optimized platform, makes JACKBIT more inclusive than region-locked competitors, reinforcing its position in the best new online casinos.
JACKBIT’s ability to combine privacy, variety, and innovative rewards creates a gaming experience that’s hard to match. Its player-centric approach and global reach make it a top contender among the best crypto casinos, appealing to both casual players and seasoned gamblers.

What We Like and Don’t Like About JACKBIT Casino

Like any platform, JACKBIT has its strengths and areas for improvement. Here’s a balanced look at what makes it shine and where it could grow among the best new online casinos.

Advantages
- No KYC Requirement: JACKBIT’s no-KYC policy makes it the best anonymous online casino, offering unparalleled privacy for players who value discretion.
- Massive Game Library: With over 7,000 titles, including slots, table games, live dealers, and a comprehensive sportsbook, JACKBIT caters to every gaming preference.
- Diverse Payment Options: Supporting 17+ cryptocurrencies and fiat methods like Visa and Google Pay, JACKBIT ensures fast, secure, and fee-free transactions, rivaling top Pay ID casino platforms.
- Generous Bonuses: From a 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins welcome offer to weekly giveaways and a rewarding VIP program, JACKBIT keeps players engaged with valuable rewards.
- Instant Crypto Payouts: Players can access winnings quickly, thanks to fee-free, instant crypto withdrawals, a key feature of the best new online casinos.
- 24/7 Multilingual Support: Live chat in multiple languages ensures global players receive prompt, professional assistance at any time.
- Comprehensive Sportsbook: With 140+ sports and 82,000+ live events, JACKBIT’s sportsbook adds a dynamic layer to its casino offerings, appealing to sports betting fans.
Disadvantages
- Curacao License: While reputable, the Curacao Gaming License may be seen as less stringent than those from Malta or the UKGC, which could concern some players.
- Limited Game Category Details: Certain games, like craps, lack detailed information in some reviews, which could improve transparency for players exploring the best new online casinos.
- No Dedicated Mobile App: Although the mobile site is highly responsive, the absence of a dedicated app might disappoint some users who prefer app-based gaming.
Overall, JACKBIT’s strengths far outweigh its minor drawbacks, making it a top choice among the best new online casinos. Its focus on privacy, variety, and player rewards ensures a standout experience, even as it continues to refine its offerings.

How We Selected the Best New Online Casino

Selecting the best new online casinos involves a meticulous evaluation of critical factors to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience. Our process for choosing JACKBIT as a leader in this category is thorough and transparent. Here’s how we assessed it:
- License and Security: A valid license is non-negotiable for trust and compliance. JACKBIT’s Curacao Gaming License ensures legal operation and regular audits for fairness. Its no-KYC policy enhances privacy, making it a top anonymous online casino, while SSL encryption safeguards player data and transactions.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Competitive bonuses attract and retain players. JACKBIT’s 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins welcome offer, combined with weekly $10,000 giveaways, 10,000 free spins, and a VIP program, provide exceptional value compared to other new online casinos.
- Game Variety: A diverse game library is essential for player satisfaction. JACKBIT’s 7,000+ games, including slots, table games, live dealers, and a sportsbook with 140+ sports, cater to all preferences, setting it apart in the best new online casinos.
- Casino Game Providers: Partnerships with top providers guarantee quality and innovation. JACKBIT collaborates with industry leaders like NetEnt, Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, and Pragmatic Play, ensuring cutting-edge gameplay across all categories.
- Banking Methods: Flexible and secure payment options are vital. JACKBIT supports 17+ cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether) and fiat methods (Visa, Google Pay, Apple Pay), with instant, fee-free crypto transactions, making it a strong Pay ID casino alternative.
- Customer Support: Reliable support builds trust and enhances the user experience. JACKBIT’s 24/7 live chat in multiple languages, coupled with a comprehensive FAQ section, ensures players receive prompt, professional assistance.
- User Experience: An intuitive interface and mobile compatibility are key to accessibility. JACKBIT’s sleek design and fully optimized mobile platform deliver seamless gameplay on desktops, tablets, and smartphones, a hallmark of the best new online casinos.
This rigorous evaluation process confirms JACKBIT’s position as a leader in the best new online casinos, offering a secure, diverse, and player-focused experience that meets the needs of modern gamblers.

How We Chose JACKBIT as the Best Online Casino

Our methodology for selecting the best crypto casinos prioritizes player satisfaction, reliability, and innovation. JACKBIT emerged as a top contender among the best new online casinos due to its exceptional performance across these key criteria:
- User Experience: A seamless, intuitive platform is critical for player enjoyment. JACKBIT’s clean design, easy navigation, and mobile-friendly interface make it accessible to all users, from beginners to seasoned players, setting it apart from other brand-new online casinos.
- Game Quality and Innovation: High-quality games from trusted providers ensure fairness and engagement. JACKBIT’s partnerships with NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, and Pragmatic Play deliver top-tier experiences, with innovative features like provably fair games and immersive live dealer tables.
- Bonus Fairness: Promotions should offer genuine value with transparent terms. JACKBIT’s 30% Rakeback, 100 free spins, and weekly giveaways are player-friendly, providing more rewards than many competitors in the best new online casinos.
- Payment Speed and Security: Fast, secure transactions are essential for a modern casino. JACKBIT’s instant crypto payouts, fee-free withdrawals, and robust encryption set a high standard, making it a top choice for players seeking a Pay ID casino alternative.
- Reputation and Feedback: Player reviews and industry standing are critical indicators of credibility. Since its 2022 launch, JACKBIT has earned positive feedback on platforms like Trustpilot and AskGamblers, confirming its reliability among the best crypto casinos.
- Responsible Gambling: Tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks promote safe play. JACKBIT’s commitment to responsible gaming aligns with the standards of the best new online casinos, ensuring player well-being.
By excelling in these areas, JACKBIT proves itself as a leader in the best crypto casinos, delivering a reliable, innovative, and rewarding experience for players worldwide.

How to Join JACKBIT

Joining JACKBIT, one of the best new online casinos, is a quick and straightforward process, thanks to its streamlined, no-KYC registration. This makes it an ideal choice for players seeking an anonymous online casino. Follow these simple steps to get started:
1. Visit JACKBIT’s official website using a secure browser.
2. Locate and click the “Sign Up” or “Register” button in the top-right corner of the homepage.
3. Provide minimal details, such as an email address, password, and preferred currency, to maintain anonymity.
4. Choose a payment method from 17+ cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) or fiat options (e.g., Visa, Google Pay) and make your first deposit.
5. Claim the 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins welcome bonus to boost your gaming experience.
6. Start exploring the 7,000+ games or dive into the sportsbook for betting action.
The entire process takes less than five minutes, making JACKBIT one of the most accessible new online casinos. Before signing up, ensure you meet your jurisdiction’s legal gambling age, typically 18 or 19, to comply with regulations. JACKBIT’s user-friendly onboarding process reinforces its position as a top choice among the best new online casinos, offering instant access to a world of gaming excitement.

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The Selection Process: Defining Excellence in Online Gaming

Our selection process for identifying the best new online casinos is rigorous and transparent, focusing on measurable criteria that define excellence in online gaming. JACKBIT excels across these key areas, earning its place as a leader in the industry:
- Game Quality and Variety: A diverse, high-quality game library is essential for player satisfaction. JACKBIT’s 7,000+ titles, including slots, table games, live dealers, and a sportsbook with 140+ sports, set a benchmark for variety and quality in the best new online casinos.
- User Experience: Intuitive navigation and cross-device compatibility are critical for accessibility. JACKBIT’s responsive design ensures seamless gameplay on desktops, tablets, and smartphones, making it a standout among brand new online casinos.
- Bonuses and Fairness: Promotions should enhance gameplay without excessive restrictions. JACKBIT’s 30% Rakeback, 100 free spins, and weekly giveaways are generous and transparent, offering more value than many competitors in the best crypto casinos.
- Payment Flexibility: Secure, diverse payment methods cater to modern player needs. JACKBIT’s support for 17+ cryptocurrencies and fiat options like Apple Pay provides unmatched convenience, positioning it as a top Pay ID casino alternative.
- Security and Trust: Licensing, encryption, and fair play are paramount for player confidence. JACKBIT’s Curacao Gaming License, SSL encryption, and no-KYC policy build trust, making it a leading anonymous online casino.
- Innovation: Features like crypto integration and anonymous play set top casinos apart. JACKBIT’s no-KYC approach, extensive crypto support, and innovative promotions make it a pioneer in the best new online casinos.
This comprehensive process confirms JACKBIT’s excellence, redefining standards for online gaming and solidifying its position as a top choice among the best new online casinos in 2025.

Games Offered in JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s game library is a cornerstone of its appeal, offering over 7,000 titles across multiple categories. This extensive selection makes it a standout among the best new online casinos, catering to every type of player. Below is a detailed exploration of its offerings:

1. Slots

Slots dominate JACKBIT’s catalog, with over 5,000 titles, including 180+ Megaways and progressive jackpots. These games range from classic fruit machines to modern video slots with cinematic graphics and immersive storylines. Popular titles include:
- Gold Party: A high-volatility slot with massive payout potential, ideal for thrill-seekers.
- Chilli Heat: A vibrant, medium-variance slot with engaging free spins features, perfect for casual players.
- Wolf Gold: A fan-favorite with stacked wilds and jackpot opportunities, offering exciting gameplay.
Regular slot tournaments and free spins promotions enhance the experience, making JACKBIT a top destination for slot enthusiasts in the best new online casinos.

2. Table Games

JACKBIT offers a robust selection of table games for players who enjoy strategy and skill-based gaming:
- Craps: A thrilling dice game with multiple betting options, available in RNG format and possibly live dealer versions, appealing to risk-takers.
- Blackjack: Variants like Power Blackjack, Blackjack VIP, and Infinite Blackjack offer low house edges and strategic depth, catering to both novices and experts.
- Roulette: Options include European, American, and Lightning Roulette, each with unique gameplay and betting limits to suit different preferences.
- Poker: Titles like Texas Hold’em, Caribbean Stud, and video poker variants such as Jacks or Better provide diverse options for poker fans.
- Baccarat: Features Mini Baccarat, VIP Baccarat, and Speed Baccarat for quick-play enthusiasts seeking fast-paced action.
These table games combine skill and excitement, reinforcing JACKBIT’s position among the best new online casinos.

3. Live Dealer Games

JACKBIT’s live dealer section, powered by industry leaders like Evolution Gaming and Pragmatic Play, delivers an authentic casino experience:
- Live Blackjack: Multiple tables with low-stakes and VIP options, featuring real-time interaction with professional dealers.
- Live Roulette: Variants like Immersive Roulette and Auto Roulette provide dynamic gameplay with high-definition streaming.
- Live Baccarat: Includes No Commission Baccarat and Punto Banco, offering fast-paced action for baccarat fans.
- Game Shows: Titles like Dream Catcher, Mega Wheel, and Crazy Time add interactive fun with big win potential, appealing to players seeking entertainment.
High-definition streaming, professional dealers, and real-time chat create an immersive environment, making JACKBIT a top choice for live gaming fans in the best crypto casinos.

4. Sportsbook

JACKBIT’s sportsbook is a standout feature, offering:
- 140+ sports, including football, basketball, tennis, cricket, and e-sports like Dota 2 and Counter-Strike.
- 82,000+ live monthly events and 75,000+ pre-match events, ensuring constant betting opportunities.
- 4,500+ betting types, from moneylines to prop bets, with competitive odds and live streaming for select events.
The sportsbook’s depth and variety make it a go-to for sports betting enthusiasts, complementing JACKBIT’s casino offerings and reinforcing its status as a leader in the best new online casinos.

5. Specialty Games

JACKBIT also offers low-stakes, high-fun options for casual players:
- Bingo: Over 20 titles, such as Shamrock Bingo and Burning Pearl Bingo, provide quick, entertaining gameplay.
- Scratch Cards: Digital scratch games with instant-win mechanics, perfect for fast-paced fun.
- Mini-Games: Crypto-friendly options like Aviator and Plinko, known for their simplicity and high RTPs, appeal to players seeking unique experiences.
These specialty games add diversity to JACKBIT’s portfolio, catering to a wide audience in the best new online casinos.

6. Virtual Sports

JACKBIT’s virtual sports section includes simulated events like virtual football, horse racing, and greyhound racing. Powered by advanced algorithms, these games offer 24/7 betting opportunities with realistic graphics and quick results, making them a great addition for sports fans.

This extensive game variety ensures JACKBIT remains a top choice among the best new online casinos, offering something for every player, from slot enthusiasts to sports bettors.

Additional Gaming Features

JACKBIT enhances its gaming experience with several unique features that elevate it among the best new online casinos:
- Tournaments: Regular slot and table game tournaments offer cash prizes and free spins, adding a competitive edge for players seeking excitement.
- Progressive Jackpots: Slots like Mega Moolah and Divine Fortune provide the chance for life-changing payouts, attracting high-stakes players.
- Demo Mode: Many games offer free play, allowing players to test strategies or explore new titles without risking funds, a valuable feature for beginners.
- Multi-Language Support: Games are available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish, catering to a global audience and enhancing accessibility.
These features make JACKBIT a dynamic and engaging platform, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the best crypto casinos. By offering competitive tournaments, massive jackpots, and flexible play options, JACKBIT ensures players have a rewarding and personalized experience.

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Payment Options in JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s payment system is designed for flexibility, speed, and security, making it a top pick among the best new online casinos. It supports both cryptocurrencies and fiat methods, catering to a diverse player base. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

1. Cryptocurrencies

JACKBIT accepts over 17 cryptocurrencies, ensuring fast, secure, and fee-free transactions:
- Bitcoin (BTC): The most popular choice, offering instant deposits and withdrawals with full anonymity.
- Ethereum (ETH): Known for quick processing and low transaction costs, ideal for frequent players.
- Tether (USDT): A stablecoin that ensures value stability, perfect for consistent payouts.
- Solana (SOL): Offers ultra-fast transactions and minimal fees, appealing to tech-savvy players.
- Ripple (XRP): Provides rapid processing for seamless deposits and withdrawals.
- Additional Cryptos: Includes Litecoin (LTC), Cardano (ADA), Dogecoin (DOGE), and more, providing ample options.
Crypto transactions are processed instantly, with no fees, making JACKBIT a leader in the best crypto casinos for players seeking efficiency and privacy.

2. Fiat Methods

For players preferring traditional banking, JACKBIT offers:
- Visa/MasterCard: Secure credit/debit card deposits are processed instantly, though withdrawals may take 1-3 days, depending on the provider.
- Google Pay: A convenient option for mobile users, offering quick and secure deposits.
- Apple Pay: Provides instant, secure deposits for iOS users, enhancing accessibility.
- Bank Transfers: Reliable for larger transactions, though withdrawals may take 3-5 days and could incur minor fees.
While JACKBIT doesn’t explicitly mention Pay ID casino support, its fiat options provide similar convenience for traditional banking users, ensuring accessibility for all players.

Additional Notes
- Minimum Deposits: Typically $10-$20 (or crypto equivalent), making JACKBIT accessible to players with varying budgets.
- Withdrawal Limits: High limits, such as $10,000 weekly, cater to high rollers, with crypto withdrawals offering greater flexibility.
- Security: SSL encryption and blockchain technology ensure safe transactions across all methods, aligning with the standards of the best new online casinos.
JACKBIT’s diverse payment options, combined with its focus on speed and security, make it a top choice for players seeking a reliable and flexible gaming platform.

Regulation of the Best Online Casinos

Regulation is a cornerstone of trust in online gambling, and JACKBIT operates under a Curacao Gaming License, a common choice for crypto casinos due to its flexibility and global reach. This license ensures legal operation and regular audits for fairness, aligning with the standards of the best new online casinos. Key regulatory aspects include:
- Licensing: The Curacao license guarantees compliance with international gaming standards, providing players with a safe and fair environment.
- Data Protection: SSL encryption safeguards personal and financial data, ensuring secure transactions and privacy for all users.
- Fair Play: Random Number Generators (RNGs) and provably fair games ensure unbiased outcomes, giving players confidence in the integrity of JACKBIT’s offerings.
- Responsible Gambling: Tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks promote safe play, demonstrating JACKBIT’s commitment to player well-being.
- Age Verification: JACKBIT enforces legal gambling age requirements (18 or 19, depending on jurisdiction), ensuring compliance with local regulations.
While the Curacao license is reputable, some players may prefer casinos licensed by stricter authorities like the Malta Gaming Authority or UK Gambling Commission. However, JACKBIT’s no-KYC policy and robust security measures make it a trustworthy choice for those seeking an anonymous online casino. Its adherence to regulatory standards reinforces its position among the best crypto casinos.

The Most Popular Payout Methods at JACKBIT

JACKBIT’s payout methods are optimized for speed, convenience, and privacy, with cryptocurrencies leading the way due to their alignment with the platform’s no-KYC ethos. Here are the most popular options among players:
- Bitcoin (BTC): The fastest and most widely used method, offering instant, fee-free withdrawals with complete anonymity, making it ideal for players in the best new online casinos.
- Ethereum (ETH): Popular for its quick processing and low transaction costs, providing a seamless payout experience for frequent players.
- Tether (USDT): A stablecoin that ensures consistent payout values, perfect for players seeking stability in their withdrawals.
- Ripple (XRP): Known for ultra-fast transactions and minimal fees, offering a reliable option for quick payouts.
- Visa/MasterCard: A dependable choice for fiat users, though withdrawals take 1-3 days and may incur minor fees, depending on the provider.
Cryptocurrency payouts dominate due to their speed and privacy, aligning with JACKBIT’s status as a top anonymous online casino. Fiat options remain popular for players transitioning from traditional banking, offering flexibility similar to a Pay ID casino. JACKBIT’s focus on instant, secure payouts ensures players can access their winnings with ease, reinforcing its position among the best new online casinos.

Responsible Gambling at JACKBIT

JACKBIT prioritizes player well-being with a comprehensive suite of responsible gambling tools, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all users. These features align with the standards of the best new online casinos and demonstrate JACKBIT’s commitment to promoting healthy gaming habits:
- Deposit Limits: Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on their deposits to manage spending and maintain control over their gaming budget.
- Self-Exclusion: Options to temporarily or permanently suspend accounts allow players to take a break if needed, supporting long-term well-being.
- Reality Checks: Periodic reminders of playtime and spending help players stay aware of their gaming activity, encouraging mindful play.
- Support Resources: JACKBIT provides links to organizations like GamCare and Gambling Therapy, offering professional support for players seeking assistance.
These tools empower players to game responsibly, ensuring JACKBIT remains a safe and trusted platform. By prioritizing player well-being, JACKBIT reinforces its reputation as a leader in the best crypto casinos, catering to a global audience with care and integrity.

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Commonly Asked Questions
1. Why is JACKBIT considered one of the best new online casinos?
  JACKBIT’s no-KYC policy, 7,000+ games, instant crypto payouts, and generous bonuses make it a top choice for 2025, offering a seamless and rewarding experience.
2. What bonuses does JACKBIT offer?
  New players receive a 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins, plus weekly giveaways, VIP rewards, and Pragmatic Drops & Wins with a €2,000,000 prize pool.
3. Which payment methods are most popular at JACKBIT?
  Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, and Visa/MasterCard are widely used for their speed, security, and reliability, making JACKBIT a strong Pay ID casino alternative.
4. Is JACKBIT a brand-new online casino?
  Launched in 2022, JACKBIT is a relatively new online casino but has quickly gained prominence due to its innovative features and player-focused approach.
5. Does JACKBIT support Pay ID casino options?
  While not explicitly mentioned, JACKBIT’s fiat options like Visa, Google Pay, and Apple Pay offer similar convenience for traditional banking users.
EMAIL: support@jackbit.com

Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

General Disclaimer

This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. The content is based on research and user reviews, but no warranties are made. Players must verify all information before acting, as online gambling carries inherent risks. Ensure you meet your jurisdiction’s legal gambling age before participating.

Casino and Gambling Disclaimer

Online gambling involves risks and may not be suitable for everyone. Gambling laws vary by jurisdiction, and compliance is your responsibility. We do not promote gambling, and participation is at your own risk. JACKBIT is a third-party platform, and we are not liable for any losses or disputes arising from its use. Always gamble responsibly and seek professional advice if needed.

Affiliate Disclosure

This article may contain affiliate links, which earn us a commission at no additional cost to you for qualifying actions. These links help support our content creation. Our reviews remain unbiased, and we only recommend products and platforms we believe offer genuine value. Conduct your own research before signing up or making deposits to ensure JACKBIT meets your needs.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4f15aa58-806e-4a39-80fd-fcdaa1a6ef34

The MIL Network –
May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos UK: JACKBIT is Ranked the Most Trusted Online Casino of 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JACKBIT Casino is making a bold impact on the UK’s online casino scene for 2025, offering a distinctive mix of privacy, speed, and premium gameplay. Since its launch in 2022, it has become a top choice for UK players who value no KYC requirements, instant crypto withdrawals, and access to over 7,000 games. With a sleek, user-friendly interface and full cryptocurrency support, JACKBIT delivers a modern, secure, and rewarding experience for real-money casino enthusiasts.

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JACKBIT Casino Features for UK Players

JACKBIT ranks among the best online casinos UK for 2025, offering privacy-first gaming with no KYC requirements. Players enjoy access to 7,000+ games, including top online pokies, live dealer tables, and more, powered by 85+ leading providers.

It supports 20+ cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, plus fiat options such as Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. With instant withdrawals, zero fees, and 24/7 multilingual support, JACKBIT delivers secure, flexible, and seamless gaming, making it a top-rated choice for crypto and real money casino fans.

Our Favorite Overall Casino in the UK

JACKBIT stands out in the best Online Casinos UK for 2025, thanks to its blend of anonymity, fast payouts, and top-tier gaming. Licensed by Curacao eGaming, it’s a leading no KYC casino, ensuring privacy without sacrificing security.

UK players can claim 30% rakeback and 100 wager-free spins, plus enjoy a VIP program offering up to 30% rakeback. With a sleek interface, a sportsbook covering 140+ sports, and flexible crypto + fiat payment options, JACKBIT delivers a seamless, private, and high-reward casino experience.

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Benefits of JACKBIT:
- No KYC Policy: A true Anonymous Online Casino, ideal for privacy-conscious UK players.
- Instant Withdrawals: Crypto payouts processed in minutes, a hallmark of best Crypto Casinos.
- Vast Game Library: Over 7,000 titles, including best online pokies, table games, and live dealer options.
- Flexible Payments: Supports 20+ cryptocurrencies and fiat methods like Apple Pay and Visa.
- Generous Bonuses: 30% rakeback, 100 free spins, weekly $10,000 giveaways, and Pragmatic Drops & Wins (€2,000,000) in best Online Casinos UK.
- Robust Sportsbook: Covers 140+ sports with 82,000+ monthly live events.
- Multilingual Support: 24/7 live chat in English, German, French, and more.
Negatives of JACKBIT:
- No Dedicated Mobile App: Mobile play is browser-based, unlike some New Online Casinos.
- Limited Fiat Withdrawal Options: Crypto-focused withdrawals may inconvenience fiat users.
- Occasional Verification for Large Withdrawals: May delay big payouts, despite the best No KYC Casino status.
- Restricted in Some Regions: UK players must confirm eligibility due to licensing nuances.
How To Join JACKBIT Casino? Step By Step

Joining JACKBIT, a leader in best online casinos UK, is quick and straightforward:
1. Visit the Official Site: Navigate to JACKBIT’s website and click “Sign Up.”
2. Register Anonymously: Provide an email and password—no personal details required, aligning with its Anonymous Online Casino ethos.
3. Deposit Funds: Choose from 20+ cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) or fiat options like Visa or Apple Pay. The minimum deposit for the welcome bonus is $50.
4. Claim Your Bonus: 30% rakeback and 100 wager-free spins.
5. Start Playing: Dive into 7,000+ games, from best online pokies to sports betting, in best Crypto Casinos.
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How We Selected JACKBIT as the Best Online Casino in the UK

Our rigorous evaluation process ensures JACKBIT ranks among the best online casinos in the UK. We assessed critical factors to identify the top crypto casinos for UK players:

License and Security

JACKBIT operates under a Curacao eGaming license, guaranteeing legitimacy and fair play. Advanced SSL encryption and a no KYC policy make it a secure best No KYC Casino, safeguarding UK players’ data and transactions in best online casinos UK.

Bonuses and Promotions

JACKBIT’s welcome offer, 30% rakeback, and 100 wager-free spins set a high standard in the best online casinos. Weekly $10,000 tournaments, Daily 1000 free spins, and Pragmatic Drops & Wins. The VIP rakeback system (up to 30%) and social media bonuses reward loyalty, making it a favorite in New Online Casinos.

Casino Games

Boasting over 7,000 games, JACKBIT offers unmatched variety, from slots and table games to live dealer options and a sportsbook with 140+ sports. This diversity appeals to all UK players in best Online Casinos UK.

Casino Game Providers

JACKBIT collaborates with 85 industry-leading providers, including Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, Play’n GO, and Microgaming, ensuring top-quality online pokies and live games in best Crypto Casinos.

Banking Methods

JACKBIT supports 20+ cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, etc.) and fiat options (Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, bank transfer) tailored for UK players. Instant crypto deposits and withdrawals position it as a leader in Pay ID Casino and best online casinos UK.

Customer Support

Available 24/7 via live chat in multiple languages (English, German, French, etc.), JACKBIT’s responsive support enhances its reputation as a top no KYC casino. Email support ([email protected]) ensures reliable assistance for UK players.

How We Choose the Top-Rated Casino Sites in the UK

To rank the best online casinos UK, we evaluate licensing, game variety, payment speed, bonuses, customer support, and user experience. JACKBIT excels with its Curacao license, 7,000+ games, instant crypto payouts, and no KYC policy, making it a premier anonymous online casino.

Mobile compatibility, responsible gambling tools (self-exclusion, deposit limits), and player feedback from platforms like Trustpilot are also critical, cementing JACKBIT’s status in new online casinos and best crypto casinos in the UK.

The Selection Process: Defining Excellence in Online Gaming

Our selection process for the best online casinos UK is meticulous:
- Gameplay Testing: We played slots, poker, live dealer games, and sports betting to assess quality, fairness, and RTP rates.
- Payment Verification: Tested deposits and withdrawals for speed, reliability, and fees in Pay ID Casino options.
- Bonus Evaluation: Analyzed wagering requirements, bonus terms, and overall value.
- Security Checks: Confirmed licensing, encryption, and responsible gambling measures for best no KYC Casino standards.
- Player Feedback: Reviewed Trustpilot and forum insights for real user experiences in best crypto casinos.
JACKBIT’s instant payouts, vast game selection, and privacy-first approach made it the top choice for best online casinos UK.

A Gaming Paradise: 8,000+ Ways to Play

While JACKBIT’s library is closer to 7,000 games (not 8,000 as sometimes claimed), it remains a gaming paradise for UK players in best online casinos UK. From best online pokies to live dealer tables, digital scratch cards, and a comprehensive sportsbook, the platform caters to every taste. Its sportsbook, featuring 82,000+ monthly live events, 75,000+ pre-match events, 4,500+ betting types, and 140+ sports, adds unparalleled versatility, making JACKBIT a standout in best crypto casinos.

Craps

JACKBIT offers digital craps with provably fair outcomes, delivering fast-paced dice action. The intuitive interface and customizable betting options make it accessible for beginners and seasoned UK players in new online casinos.

Live Dealer Games

With over 250 live dealer games from Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and Ezugi, JACKBIT provides immersive experiences in blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and game shows like Dream Catcher and Crazy Time. High-definition streaming, multi-camera angles, and professional dealers make it a highlight of the best crypto casinos.

Poker

Poker fans enjoy variants like Casino Hold’em, Caribbean Stud, Three Card Poker, and Texas Hold’em, with daily tournaments offering cash prizes and leaderboards. JACKBIT’s poker offerings are a draw for strategic players in the best online casinos UK.

Roulette

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Blackjack

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Disclaimer

General Disclaimer

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A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6dcee7c9-acff-4da4-9755-f9e074d09ee1

The MIL Network –
May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Interim Financial Report, Q1 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- Earnings per share DKK 19.4 (Q1 2024: DKK 19.0)
- Core income DKK 3,229m (Q1 2024: DKK 3,430m)
- Core expenses DKK 1,533m (Q1 2024: DKK 1,557m)
- Loan impairment charges: DKK 66m (Q1 2024: DKK 82m)
- Post-model adjustments relating to loan impairment charges was up to DKK 1,869m (end of 2024: DKK 1,782m).
- Capital ratio at 20.9%, of which common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 15.7% (Q1 2024: 22.0% and 16.6%, respectively)
Summary

”Jyske Bank has got off to a good start to the year with continued progress. In addition, we have boosted customer satisfaction, among personal as well as corporate customers, over the past year. We are in a strong financial position and well-equipped to support our customers,” says Lars Mørch, CEO and Member of the Group Executive Board.

In Q1 2025, earnings per share rose by 2% compared with the year before despite the impact from considerably lower short-term interest rates. The business volumes showed sustained increase with increased momentum in the personal customer area.

The Danish economy continues to show high employment and a slightly increasing level of activity. The future development of the economy is affected by higher geopolitical uncertainty and the ongoing trade war.

Strategic progress
Jyske Bank’s strategy builds on the Group’s strengths and aims to pave the way for a strong future market position. The strategy involves tight operations combined with higher investments in selected customer segments and ensuring a solid, secure and attractive platform.

We have clear-cut targets for stronger customer focus, and it is our ambition to help customers in their sustainable transition and to use digitisation proactively to the benefit of customers and to raise efficiency in the Group.

In the first quarter of 2025, we further enhanced the customer experience by making all relevant information about meetings with Jyske Bank available at the online and mobile banking platforms. We introduced AI assistants and made artificial intelligence accessible to all employees.

Corporate customers have also gained new opportunities at online banking through modules for financial and risk management, which can help them make informed decisions and effectively manage their risks. We also held business-oriented webinars focusing on the future of construction and climate accounts.

Rising customer satisfaction
Jyske Bank’s customer satisfaction surged over the past twelve months. Personal customer satisfaction shows one of the largest increases among Danish banks and is higher than that of comparable financial institutions. Jyske Bank has the most satisfied private banking customers in the country, and in addition, satisfaction among corporate customers is on the rise. This is the result of targeted efforts where we have to an even higher extent held meetings with our customers.

New Executive Board member
After nearly 38 years with Jyske Bank – of these almost 16 years on the Group Executive Board, Niels Erik Jakobsen, Head of Personal Banking and Wealth Management and Member of the Group Executive Board, has as previously announced decided to retire on 1 June 2025.

At the same date, Ingjerd Blekeli Spiten will take office as Head of Personal Banking and Wealth Management and new member of the Group Executive Board. Ingjerd Blekeli Spiten was during the period 2018-2024 Group Executive Director of Retail Banking at DNB (Norway). Previously, she held leadership positions with responsibility for sales, development, and implementation at DNB and companies such as Ericsson, Microsoft and Telenor.

DKK 19.4 per share in Q1 2025
Jyske Bank’s earnings per share were up by 2% to DKK 19.4, supported by a positive development in activity and fewer shares in circulation.

Core income declined by 6% due to lower net interest income after Danmarks Nationalbank’s policy rate decreased to an average of 2.36% for the first quarter of 2025 from 3.60% a year before. Net fee and commission income, on the other hand, showed a continued positive development with an increase of 20%, driven by rising assets under management and customers’ adoption of our investment products.

Core expenses decreased by 2%, driven by fewer employees and lower contributions to the Resolution Fund, partially offset by contractual wage increases of 3.7% and inflation. Additionally, the effect of DKK 22m lower non-recurring items relating to the acquisitions of Handelsbanken Danmark and PFA Bank after completed integration processes.

Loan impairment charges remained at a low level of DKK 66m against DKK 82m in the preceding year. The continued low level includes the effect of an increase in management’s estimates regarding impairments by DKK 87m to DKK 1.9bn, in order to address the effects from higher macroeconomic uncertainty.

The capital base remains solid after the implementation of Basel IV. The common equity tier 1 capital ratio was 15.7% at the end of the first quarter of 2025, with a total capital ratio of 20.9% in line with the targeted intervals.

Webcast and conference call
Jyske Bank will host a conference call in English targeting investors and analysts today at 12:00 p.m. CET (link). Conference call and presentation will be available via www.jyskebank.dk/ir.

Yours faithfully,
Jyske Bank

Contact:
Lars Mørch, CEO and Member of the Executive Board, tel. +45 89 89 20 01
Birger Krøgh Nielsen, CFO, tel. +45 89 89 64 44

Attachments
- Interim Finanical Report Q1 2025
- Corporate announcement 20250507
The MIL Network –
May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Introduces Global Themes To Unite Student Innovators Worldwide

Source: Samsung

Samsung Electronics is unveiling global themes for its youth innovation program Samsung Solve for Tomorrow in a bold step to empower young people around the world to solve challenges together and drive positive social change.

Sustainability and Social Change Explored by Youth Around the World
Launched in the United States in 2010, Solve for Tomorrow is a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education competition that has reached more than 2.9 million students across 68 countries over the past 15 years. The program encourages students to propose creative solutions to social issues in their local communities, helping them build essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Starting in 2025 with the introduction of global themes, Solve for Tomorrow will go one step further to evolve into a platform for youth to collaborate and address universal problems that transcend local boundaries.

This year’s global themes are “Environmental Sustainability via Technology” and “Social Change through Sport & Technology with International Olympic Committee.”

“Environmental issues are among the most difficult challenges facing humanity today,” said Soojin Kim, Head of the Corporate Sustainability Center at Samsung Electronics. “We are pleased to join youth around the world on this journey to overcome these issues with technology.”

▲ A poster celebrating the 15th anniversary of Solve for Tomorrow and introducing the global themes

Global Themes Selected Through ‘Together for Tomorrow’ Olympic Partnership
As the Worldwide smartphone Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games last year, IOC and Samsung partnered to launch ‘Together for Tomorrow, Enabling People’ — a digital community created to complement Solve for Tomorrow. The platform aims to engage young people from across the globe with the Olympic Movement and harness the transformative power of technology and sport to drive meaningful change.

During the Olympic Games Paris 2024, 10 students from the winning teams of the previous year’s Solve for Tomorrow program served as ambassadors for “Together for Tomorrow, Enabling People.”

The theme “Social Change Through Sport & Technology” was voted on by the public in the Together for Tomorrow, Enabling People community. Samsung and IOC plan to appoint individuals who exemplify this theme as global ambassadors and collaborate with them to develop solutions.

“We are delighted to work with our Worldwide Olympic Partner Samsung on the creation of this new sport-driven theme,” said Ollie Dudfield, Associate Director of Olympism 365 at IOC. “It’s an exciting step forward in line with the ambitions of IOC’s Olympism 365 strategy — empowering young people around the world to think boldly about how sport and technology can drive positive change.’’

Leveraging Samsung’s Expertise To Strengthen Support for Participants
Samsung is leveraging its unique resources and expertise to strengthen Solve for Tomorrow. By integrating the Samsung Design Thinking methodology into the program, the company hopes to encourage the development of practical, user-centered solutions. Samsung also plans to expand employee mentoring to help participants further refine their ideas with guidance from experts with real-world experience.

IOC Young Leaders Programme will also have a role to play in helping students understand how sport and technology can mix to generate innovative solutions to social challenges. “Through Samsung Solve for Tomorrow, I’ve learned that even a small idea can spark big change,” said Solve for Tomorrow US ambassador Ngan Huu Kim Le.

“Working alongside friends from around the world motivates me to keep seeking creative solutions for a better future.”

Solve for Tomorrow 2025 recently kicked off in Vietnam and India, and will soon be launched in Indonesia, Türkiye, Singapore and other countries. Spanning months from the qualifiers to the finals, the program will award winning teams, depending on the country, with project incubation funding and support for establishing STEM labs.

“Samsung Solve for Tomorrow has been Samsung’s flagship corporate citizenship initiative for the past 15 years,” said Eddie Cho, Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Citizenship Office at Samsung Electronics. “We look forward to strengthening the role of the global platform to nurture even more young people into the leaders of tomorrow.”

▲ The 15th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow U.S. Pitch & Reveal Event took place in Samsung DC on April 28. (From left) U.S. National Winner Charter School of Wilmington from Delaware with Yoonie Joung, President of Samsung Electronics North America; Solve for Tomorrow U.S. ambassador Ngan Huu Kim Le

▲ The India Opening Ceremony took place in IIT Delhi on April 29. (From left) Shubham Mukherjee, Head of CSR & Corp Communication, Samsung SWA; Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & IT; JB Park, President & CEO, Samsung SWA; Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India; Prof. Rangan Banerjee, Director, IIT Delhi; Dr. Sapna Poti, Senior Director, Office of Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government

▲ The opening ceremony of Solve for Tomorrow 2025 Vietnam was held in Hanoi on March 28

MIL OSI Economics –

May 7, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: The Premier League champions have already been crowned but there’s still a lot on the line – mainly money

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ronnie Das, Associate Professor in Data Analytics, The University of Western Australia

The English Premier League (EPL) is one of the most prestigious and widely consumed soccer competitions in the world.

Yet it is also manifestly lopsided when it comes to competitive balance. Only a handful of teams are title contenders each season.

The rest mainly aim to avoid relegation to the second-tier Championship, or strive to qualify for lucrative Europe-wide competitions that run alongside the domestic season.

Despite the dominance of a handful of teams, and this year’s title race already being decided in Liverpool’s favour, there is still major fan interest, even among neutrals.

The reason why is prestige and the financial windfalls for the teams that qualify for European leagues.

Soccer’s uneven playing field

Competitiveness in the Premier League has significantly declined since 1997 due to growing overseas investments.

Super-wealthy investors such as Roman Abramovich and Sheikh Mansour have permanently changed the fortunes of Chelsea and Manchester City, respectively. Since foreign acquisitions, these clubs experienced meteoric rises and dominated the league, and in Manchester City’s case, have enjoyed a near-monopoly on the league title in recent years.

Superior financial backing provides unfair advantages in the player transfer market, wage affordability, and modernising training facilities that domestically funded clubs can’t match.

This is probably a major reason why in 33 years of the EPL’s existence, there have only ever been seven different winners.

This isn’t a unique feature of the English competition.

Among the major European leagues, Barcelona and Real Madrid have combined 18 Spanish La Liga titles since 2004, Bayern Munich has won 15 German Bundesliga championships, and in Italy’s Serie A, Juventus (nine), Inter Milan (seven) and AC Milan (two) have shared the vast majority of titles over the past two decades.

This is an illustration of what economists call industrial concentration – market domination by a small number of organisations.

Normally, a fundamental principle when designing a sports league is the idea that every team should have a chance of winning it.

In US sports, such as the National Basketball Association, this is enshrined within the sport’s rules and governance.

One can argue it has been a long time since there was any such equality in English football.

Despite the criticism, there is still major interest in the Premier League, due mainly to the jostling for European qualification.

Why it’s not all about the title

Liverpool and its fans are still celebrating their title win, which they clinched with four games to spare. The victory, the club’s 20th in top-tier English soccer, equals their arch-rival Manchester United’s record.

The league’s often thrilling relegation battle has also already been decided.

But interest in the league’s final few games is still high because many clubs are jostling for European qualification.

These European-wide competitions are, in descending order of prestige, the Champions League, Europa League and the recently launched Conference League.

Organised by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), these competitions bring together the top teams from each major European soccer league to compete against each other.

This year, the top five English clubs (instead of the usual top four) will be offered a confirmed Champions League position. This is due to the collective best performance of English clubs this season in the Champions League.

At the time of writing, there is only a seven-point spread between the six teams still vying for a top-five finish, with three games left to play.

The sixth team in the league table, and the FA Cup winner, also receives the opportunity to join Europe’s second-tier club league tournament, the Europa League.

And the Carabao Cup winner secures a spot in the third-tier Conference League.

With Newcastle United (Carabao Cup winner) and Manchester City (favourite for FA Cup final) likely to finish in the top five Premier League places, the race for Europe is getting more intense with mathematical permutations suggesting up to ten Premier League places may be open to European league qualification.

This means 12 EPL teams are still fighting for every single point.

European qualification delivers enormous financial incentives. For many of the smaller competing clubs, such as Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Fulham, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

Money matters

Champions League qualification offers the largest financial rewards, with a €2.467 billion prize pool (A$4.34 billion), and minimum €18.62 million (A$32.7 million) reward per club for participation.

Each victory during the tournament’s league stage also attracts a further €2.1 million (A$3.69 million) performance bonus, and bonuses for qualifying for the knockout stage range from €1 million to €18.5 million (A$1.75 million to $32.4 million) per club, depending on how far they progress.

For Europa League participation, the reward is €4.31 million (A$7.57 million) per team, and €3.17 million (A$5.57 million) for the Conference League.

This money is vital for clubs’ survival, especially as player wages and the transfer market have skyrocketed in recent years.

For example, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, the highest-paid Premier League player, earns £500,000 (A$1.028 million) per week.

So, having the financial means to purchase top-quality players and sustain a strong team is becoming incredibly difficult for clubs with limited investments and earnings.

For smaller clubs, qualifying for European competition can be a lifeline, which is why there’s still so much interest in the Premier League’s upper mid-table battles – despite Liverpool already being a week into the title celebrations.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. The Premier League champions have already been crowned but there’s still a lot on the line – mainly money – https://theconversation.com/the-premier-league-champions-have-already-been-crowned-but-theres-still-a-lot-on-the-line-mainly-money-254700

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Former CPPCC National Committee Bureau Member Gou Zhongwen Charged with Corruption, Abuse of Power

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) — Gou Zhongwen, a former member of the Bureau of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), has been charged with corruption and abuse of office, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate said Wednesday.

The indictment of the prosecutor’s office states that Gou Zhongwen, while holding the posts of vice-mayor of Beijing, secretary of the party group and head of the General Administration of State for Physical Culture and Sports, abused his official position for the benefit of third parties, for which he received financial and material assets on an especially large scale. In addition, his actions caused enormous damage to state property, as well as the interests of the country and the people.

The criminal case against him was filed by the Yancheng City People’s Procuratorate in Jiangsu Province, and the case will be tried by the Intermediate People’s Court in the same city. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Scalise’s 100 Days of Trump Recap: House Republicans Deliver America First Wins

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As we reach the first 100 days under President Trump’s leadership, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement highlighting the progress House Republicans have made in furthering President Trump’s America First agenda: “Just 100 days into his second term, President Trump has already taken historic action at a whirlwind pace to turn our country around, reversing so much damage done by the Biden Administration and following through on his promise to put America first. Illegal border crossings have drastically declined, criminal aliens are being deported en masse, consumer prices and inflation are dropping, companies are investing trillions of dollars back into America, domestic energy production is being unleashed, gas prices are dropping, and much more. “House Republicans are working hard to do our part to further President Trump’s America First agenda, passing legislation to secure our border, keep families safe, unleash American energy, support American job growth, and increase government efficiency. We passed legislation like the Laken Riley Act, the first piece of legislation signed into law by President Trump, to protect our citizens from criminal illegal aliens. We also passed the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act to prevent men from competing in women’s sports. To ensure only American citizens are voting in federal elections, we passed the SAVE Act, and to safeguard American energy, we passed legislation such as the Protecting American Energy Production Act.”Additionally, House Republicans have passed 10 CRAs overturning costly and unnecessary regulations from the Biden Administration that crush American businesses, raise costs, and take away consumer choice, as well as the Midnight Rules Relief Act to keep the administrative state out of our homes. When partisan judges attempted to hinder President Trump from carrying out the policy agenda he was elected to deliver, we passed the No Rogue Rulings Act to prevent them from issuing nationwide injunctions. “These are just a few things House Republicans have accomplished working with President Trump, but we are far from done. Congress has a critical role to play in helping the President renew the American dream and make our nation great again, particularly through the reconciliation process. We are currently drafting one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in history in one big, beautiful bill that will deliver on President Trump’s full agenda. Republicans won’t stop fighting to take President Trump’s great vision for our nation – an America that is safe, strong, free, and full of opportunity – and make it a reality, for Americans today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.”Make America Safe Again ✅Border

H.R. 29 (Collins) – Laken Riley Act: Holds the Biden Administration accountable for their role in these tragedies through their open border policies, requires detention of illegal aliens who commit theft and mandates ICE take them into custody, and allows a state to sue the Federal government on behalf of their citizens for not enforcing the border laws, particularly in the case of parole.

Passed 264-159

Republicans: 216-0
Democrats: 48-159

Senate version became law on 1/29/25

H.R. 30 (Mace) – Preventing Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act: Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to make illegal immigrants who are convicted of, who admit having committed, or who admit committing sex offenses or domestic violence inadmissible and deportable from the United States.

Passed 274-145

Republicans: 213-0
Democrats: 61-145

H.R. 27 (Griffith) – HALT Fentanyl Act: Permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances (FRS) in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, guarantees law enforcement has the resources to keep these drugs off the street, and allows for further research of FRS.

Passed 312-108

Republicans: 214-1
Democrats: 98-107

H.R. 35 (Ciscomani) – Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act: Creates new criminal offenses for operating a vehicle within 100 miles of the southern border while fleeing from Border Patrol agents, or any law enforcement officer assisting the U.S. Border Patrol, including serious jail time and prohibition from ever receiving legal status in the United States.

Passed 264-155

Republicans: 214-0
Democrats: 50-155

Online Safety

S. 146 (Sen. Cruz) – TAKE IT DOWN Act: Prohibits the nonconsensual online publication of intimate visual depictions of individuals, both authentic and computer-generated, and requires certain online platforms to promptly remove such depictions upon receiving notice of their existence.

Passed 409-2

Republicans: 207-2
Democrats: 202-0

Foreign Relations

H.R. 23 (Roy) – Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act: Imposes sanctions on the ICC or any foreign actor who supports their effort to arrest, detain, or prosecute protected persons of the United States and its allies, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant.

Passed 243-140-1

Republicans: 198-0-1
Democrats: 45-140

H.R. 1048 (Baumgartner) – DETERRENT Act: Protects our institutions of higher education from foreign interference by strengthening disclosure requirements for foreign gifts and contracts, and in some cases, banning contracts between these schools and certain foreign entities of concern.

Passed 241-169

Republicans: 210-1
Democrats: 31-168

H.R. 33 (Smith-MO) – United States-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act: Strengthens the U.S. economic alliance with Taiwan and enhances our competitive position by providing targeted and expedited relief from double taxation on cross-border investment between America and Taiwan through tax code changes and authorizing the President to broker and enter into a tax agreement relative to Taiwan.

Passed 423-1

Republicans: 213-1
Democrats: 210-0

Women’s Sports

H.R. 28 (Steube) – Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act: Prevents schools from allowing biological males to compete in school athletic programs for women or girls by stating that sex in an athletic competition must be defined by genetics at birth, and withholding federal funding from schools that facilitate athletic programs where biological men compete against biological women.

Passed 218-206-1

Republicans: 216-0
Democrats: 2-206-1

Life

H.R. 21 (Wagner) – Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act: Secures medical protections for babies that survive an attempted abortion, requiring health care providers to administer the same medical care they would to a fetus born prematurely at the same age, transport the child to the hospital, and report violations to law enforcement.

Passed 217-204

Republicans: 216-0
Democrats: 1-204

Make America Grow Again ✅Energy

H.R. 26 (Pfluger) – Protecting American Energy Production Act: Prevents a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) to protect American energy production, and expresses that states have primacy over energy production on state and private land.

Passed 226-188

Republicans: 210-0
Democrats: 16-188

S.J. Res. 11 (Sen. Kennedy) – Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources CRA: Disapproves the Biden BOEM’s rule requiring oil and gas lessees and operators to submit an archaeological report for certain exploration or development activities on the Outer Continental Shelf to protect marine archeological resources like shipwrecks and so-called “cultural resources,” blocking increases in domestic energy production, weakening energy independence, and raising costs for consumers.

Passed 221-202-1

Republicans: 212-1-1
Democrats: 9-201

Signed into law 3/14/25

H.J. Res. 35 (Pfluger) – Waste Emissions Charge CRA: Disapproves the Biden Environmental Protection Agency’s “Waste Emissions Charge for Petroleum and Natural Gas Systems,” rule that imposes a significant fee (WEC) on methane emissions from oil and natural gas facilities that exceed specific levels, preventing the rule from raising costs for consumers, reducing domestic energy production, and increasing reliance on foreign energy sources.

Passed 220-206

Republicans: 214-1
Democrats: 6-205

Signed into law 3/14/25

Budget

H.Con. Res. 14 (Arrington) – Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2025 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2026 through 2034: Establishes a congressional budget for the U.S. Government that delivers for Americans by cutting waste and government spending, reducing burdensome regulations, providing tax cuts that support families and small businesses, supporting domestic energy production and security, and securing the border.

Passed 217-215

Republicans: 217-1
Democrats: 0-214

Passed in Senate 4/5/25

Senate Amendment to H.Con. Res. 14 (Arrington) – Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2025 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2026 through 2034: Establishes a congressional budget for the U.S. Government that delivers for Americans by cutting waste and government spending, reducing burdensome regulations, providing tax cuts that support families and small businesses, supporting domestic energy production and security, and securing the border.

Passed 216-214

Republicans: 216-2
Democrats: 0-212

Crypto

H.J. Res. 25 (Carey) – Digital Asset Sales CRA: Overturns Biden’s rule that would require brokers to report gross proceeds from crypto sales and other digital asset transactions, including data about the taxpayers involved, increasing tax filing burdens, stifling innovation, and raising privacy concerns over the sharing of taxpayers’ personal information.

Passed 292-132-1

Republicans: 216-0
Democrats: 76-132-1

Signed into law 4/10/25

Consumer Financial Protection

S.J. Res. 28 (Sen. Ricketts) – Digital Wallets CRA: Reverses the Biden Administration CFPB’s rule “Defining Larger Participants of a Market for General-Use Digital Consumer Payment Applications,” that would allow the CFPB more oversight power over non-bank entities that complete 50 million digital transactions a year, providing no benefit to consumers or the market and placing significant burdens on businesses that use digital payments.

Passed 219-211

Republicans: 219-0
Democrats: 0-211

Passed Senate 3/5/25

S.J. Res. 18 (Sen. Scott-SC) – Overdraft Price Controls CRA: Nullifies the Biden CFPB’s final rule “Overdraft Lending: Very Large Financial Institutions,” preventing the price cap limitations on overdraft fees from taking effect, ensuring overdraft services remain accessible for American consumers.

Passed 217-211

Republicans: 217-1
Democrats: 0-210

Passed Senate 3/27/25

Make America Free Again ✅Consumer Choice

H.J. Res 20 (Palmer) – Gas Water Heaters CRA: Expresses congressional disapproval of the Biden Department of Energy’s “Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Gas-fired Instantaneous Water Heaters,” rule that effectively bans certain natural gas water heaters from the market, burdening consumers and threatening their choice.

Passed 221-198

Republicans: 210-0
Democrats: 11-198

Passed Senate 4/10/25

H.J. Res. 24 (Bice) – Walk-in Coolers & Freezers CRA: Overturns the Biden Administration’s “Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Walk-In Coolers and Walk-In Freezers” rule imposing new or amended energy efficiency standards for walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers that are not technologically feasible and economically justified.

Passed 203-182

Republicans: 197-0
Democrats: 6-182

Passed Senate 4/3/25

H.J. Res. 75 (Goldman-TX) – Commercial Fridges & Freezers CRA: Overturns the Biden Administration’s “Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Commercial Refrigerators, Freezers, and Refrigerator-Freezers” rule imposing new or amended energy efficiency standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers that are not technologically feasible and economically justified.

Passed 214-193

Republicans: 209-0
Democrats: 5-193

H.J. Res. 61 (Griffith) – Rubber Tire Manufacturing CRA: Overturns the Biden EPA’s harmful “NESHAP for Rubber Tire Manufacturing” rule that establishes new emissions standards for rubber tire manufacturing, preventing it from increasing compliance costs for the industry and placing a heavier financial burden on smaller businesses, which would result in higher prices for consumers.

Passed 216-202

Republicans: 209-1
Democrats: 7-201

H.J. Res. 42 (Clyde) – Energy Conservation Standards CRA: Disapproves the Biden DOE’s “Energy Conservation-Appliance Standards, Certification and Labeling” rule which expands certification and labeling for the Department of Energy’s conservation standards program and could slow the introduction of products to market, reduce options for consumers, and affect supply chains and inventories.

Passed 222-203

Republicans: 215-0
Democrats: 7-203

Make America Efficient Again ✅
Reining In Executive Actions

H.R. 77 (Biggs-AZ) – Midnight Rules Relief Act: Amends the Congressional Review Act to allow Congress to disapprove multiple rules through one joint resolution if those rules were issued during the last year of a President’s term in office.

Passed 212-208

Republicans: 211-1
Democrats: 1-207

Election Security

H.R. 22 (Roy) – SAVE Act: Amends the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, requiring individuals to provide proof of United States citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections.

Passed 220-208

Republicans: 216-0
Democrats: 4-208

Judicial Oversight

H.R. 1526 (Issa) – NORRA of 2025: Prevents partisan judges from abusing their authority and issuing politically motivated nationwide injunctions that inhibit the President from carrying out the policy agenda the American people elected him to implement by blocking federal judges from issuing injunctions that extend beyond specific parties involved in a case.

Passed 219-213

Republicans: 219-1
Democrats: 0-212

Fraud

H.R. 1156 (Smith-MO) – Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act: Extends the statute of limitations to ten years for fraudulent unemployment claims funded by federal pandemic unemployment programs by amending the CARES Act, allowing federal law enforcement to continue prosecuting fraudsters and criminals and recover billions of taxpayer dollars lost to fraud during COVID-19.

Passed 295-127

Republicans: 212-0
Democrats: 83-127

Public Lands

H.R. 471 (Westerman) – Fix Our Forests Act: Expedites and improves forest management activities on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands, tribal lands, and National Forest System lands, deters frivolous litigation that delays important projects, promotes collaboration across jurisdictions, prioritizes treatments in the forests with highest risk of wildfire, and encourages active forest management.

Passed 279-141

Republicans: 215-0
Democrats: 64-141

Appropriations

H.R. 1968 (Cole) – Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025: Extends government funding through September 30, 2025, keeping the government open and serving the American people while we fight to reduce wasteful government spending and lower our debt.

Passed 217-213

Republicans: 216-1
Democrats: 1-212

Signed into law 3/15/25

MIL OSI USA News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Couple’s historic wedding day is picture perfect

Source: City of Leeds

When happy couple Charlotte and Matthew Harrison tied the knot in Temple Newsam House’s stunning Picture Gallery, it was a love story more than a century in the making.

The historic ceremony saw the newlyweds become the first people to be married in the gallery’s beautiful surroundings in over a hundred years.

Originally designed centuries ago to act as an “indoor garden” for the house’s aristocratic residents, the room’s spectacular floral theme instead became the ideal backdrop for what was a dream wedding day.

The couple, who met five years ago, chose the house as a venue after falling in love with the colourful gallery, which has only recently been made available for ceremonies.

Charlotte said: “We spend a lot of our time at Temple Newsam both together and with friends and when we heard they did weddings, we thought we’d check it out before making a decision.

“We love visiting stately homes and historic sites and when we saw the picture gallery we immediately fell in love and immediately knew it was just us. The room is absolutely stunning and steeped in history and was the perfect backdrop for our wedding.”

She added: “The wedding day was everything I have ever dreamed of and more. All of our guests commented on what a beautiful venue it was and how much they enjoyed the wedding. It was genuinely a dream come true.”

The couple were joined on their special day by family, friends and 20-month-old son Blake.

After meeting online during the Covid pandemic, Charlotte and Matthew had their first date at The Red Kite in Wakefield, where Matthew’s difficulties parking his car followed by some takeaway donuts made for an evening that was both sweet and memorable.

Almost five years later, Matthew, 33, popped the question on Christmas Eve at their home in Apperley Bridge, with a custom-designed ring and specially made scratch card.

Charlotte said: “It’s our family Christmas tradition to get scratch cards so I didn’t think anything of it- it looked super realistic- and then it had three ring symbols and Matt got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.”

Now the couple’s romantic story has become part of Leeds history, entering the record books at the 500-year-old mansion as the first couple to be married in the Picture Gallery since the house passed into public ownership in 1922.

Matthew said: “We’re honoured to be the first couple to be married there in over a century. We didn’t realise what a historic moment it was not just for us, but for Temple Newsam too and to be a part of that just made our day even more special. Temple Newsam has always held a fond place in our lives but the fact we can now be a part of its history is truly humbling.”

Charlotte added: “On a personal note, as a bit of a history nerd I’m genuinely thrilled that I can be a part of the history of the house.”

A Grade I listed mansion house, Temple Newsam House is one of the country’s finest examples of its kind, seen as equally significant to Hampton Court, and was a family home for much of its history.

Owned by Leeds City Council since 1922, Temple Newsam has built one of the most significant decorative art collections in the UK.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have played our part in this special and historic occasion and to have made Charlotte and Matthew’s special day so memorable.

“Our museums and galleries really are a beautiful setting for a wedding and it’s wonderful to see couples tying the knot there and becoming part of the story of these amazing sites.”

To find out more about weddings at Temple Newsam, visit: Weddings at Temple Newsam | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

More details about wedding at other Leeds Museums and Galleries sites can be found at: Weddings | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

ENDS

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Statement on 2017 Congressional Baseball Shooting Report

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) issued a statement after the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence released their report on the FBI’s Conclusions on the 2017 Congressional Baseball Shooting. This follows FBI Director Kash Patel providing a review of the FBI case file to the Committee, after years of previous FBI leadership dodging transparency and accountability. “This report definitively shows the FBI completely mishandled the investigation into the Congressional baseball shooting of 2017 – ignoring crucial and obvious facts in order to sell a false narrative that the shooting was not politically motivated. I want to thank FBI Director Kash Patel, Chairman Rick Crawford, and the staff of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence for finally getting to the truth of the matter: this was a deliberate and planned act of domestic terrorism toward Republican Members of Congress.“I encourage Director Patel to adopt the recommendations of the Committee to ensure the intelligence community is rid of bias and to identify who was responsible for the misleading and incorrect conclusions and why, and ensure the FBI gets back to its mission of following the facts, wherever they may lead.” Click here to view the report.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: ‘New superstar’ makes snooker breakthrough

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

Millions of snooker fans in China witnessed history as 28-year-old Zhao Xintong became the first Chinese player, as well as the first Asian, to win the World Snooker Championship final.

Zhao, hailed as “a new superstar”, triumphed over Welsh player Mark Williams, a three-time champion, to win the trophy in the final in Sheffield, United Kingdom, with an 18-12 victory on Monday.

Chinese player Zhao Xintong celebrates on Monday after winning the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre in the United Kingdom. Zhao became the first Asian player to win the championship. ZHAI ZHENG / XINHUA

Zhao is the youngest world champion since Shaun Murphy, who won in 2005 at the age of 22.

Overwhelmed by his achievement, Zhao, draped in a Chinese flag, said: “I can’t believe what I’ve done. It’s like a dream. I was so nervous tonight — Mark is still a top player and put me under so much pressure. He’s the best. This is a very special moment for me, for Chinese snooker, for everyone.”

The victory ignited an outpouring of jubilation across social media, with fans celebrating the long-awaited breakthrough, including one netizen who said, “Chinese snooker has found its worthy successor.” Fans also said Zhao’s historic achievement will inspire future generations of young Chinese players.

Zhao’s success fulfilled a dream that had eluded his compatriot trailblazer Ding Junhui, who narrowly missed winning the title in 2016. That year, Ding became the first Asian player to reach the World Championship final, but he fell short against Mark Selby from the UK.

The sport’s popularity in China has grown exponentially over the past two decades, helped by the success of Ding, who served as an inspiration for Zhao.

Ding congratulated Zhao on Sina Weibo with a poignant post:

“It brings me such joy to see that the threshold I once struggled to break through has now become a runway for others — and today, someone finally sprinted all the way to the finish line,” Ding said.

“This glorious moment is the ultimate reward for Chinese snooker fans who’ve steadfastly supported us and waited for this day,” he added. “Zhao’s victory isn’t just his own — it’s the realization of a shared dream that generations of Chinese players have worked toward. I’m thrilled for him, and proud to witness the rise of China’s power on this stage.”

Zhao dominated Sunday’s first two sessions at 11-6 and improved his advantage to 17-8 after the third session on Monday.

With Zhao just one frame away from making history, the 50-year-old Williams launched a strong comeback, taking four frames in a row at the start of the final session.

But the three-time world champion couldn’t hold off Zhao any further, as the Chinese player wrapped up the contest by winning the 30th frame with a break of 87.

Williams offered high praise for Zhao.

“I’m glad I’ll be too old when he’s dominating the game,” Williams said. “I’ve got nothing but admiration for what he’s done, coming through the qualifiers. … There’s a new superstar of the game.”

Zhao will start next season at No 11 in the world rankings.

He has joined nine other Chinese players in the world’s top 32, with England the only nation with more players ranked in the top echelon.

MIL OSI China News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: New York Post: Trump Admin Probes NY School for Defying Federal Order Banning Transgender Athletes in Girls Sports

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

ICYMI: New York Post: Trump Admin Probes NY School for Defying Federal Order Banning Transgender Athletes in Girls Sports | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: F1: Chaos at Alpine as team boss resigns

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

The Alpine Formula 1 team has been plunged into chaos with news that Oliver Oakes has resigned as Team Principal just ten months after joining the team.

Alpine’s Pierre Gasly leaves the pit lane during the Chinese Grand Prix, March 23, 2025. (Photo by Qian Jun/Xinhua)

“BWT Alpine Formula One Team announces that Oliver Oakes has resigned from his role as Team Principal,” read a team statement.

“As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as Executive Advisor and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes.”

Oakes’ resignation comes one day after it was widely reported that driver Jack Doohan was to be replaced from the next Grand Prix onwards by reserve Franco Colapinto.

Briatore, 75, has long been associated with the Enstone-based team, serving as Team Principal during its Benetton and Renault eras. Under his leadership, the team captured three Constructors’ and four Drivers’ Championships.

However, his tenure ended in disgrace after the 2008 Crashgate scandal, in which driver Nelson Piquet was instructed to crash deliberately during the Singapore Grand Prix to help teammate Fernando Alonso win.

The fallout led to Briatore’s exit from Renault and a subsequent ban from FIA-sanctioned events, later overturned by a French court.

The Italian made a shock return to the F1 paddock in July 2024 – and was widely thought to wield considerably more power at Alpine than his title would suggest, with Oakes having little influence behind the scenes.

Oakes’ resignation is the latest in a series of senior management departures at Alpine, reflecting deep-rooted instability at the top of the organization.

Otmar Szafnauer took over as Team Principal in early 2022, but left in July 2023 as part of a sweeping leadership shakeup that also saw the exits of Chief Technical Officer Pat Fry and long-serving Sporting Director Alan Permane.

Bruno Famin briefly succeeded Szafnauer but stepped down in August 2024, making way for Oakes.

The upheaval at Alpine has also extended beyond the leadership tier. Technical Director Matt Harman and Head of Aerodynamics Dirk de Beer both resigned in early 2024, while Rob White, a veteran with over two decades at Renault and Alpine, stepped down as Operations Director in May 2024.

MIL OSI China News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Copa Sudamericana: Gimenez brace lifts Independiente to second in group

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

Matias Gimenez scored twice as Argentina’s Independiente recovered from a goal down to trounce Uruguayan side Boston River 5-1 in the Copa Sudamericana group stage on Tuesday.

Agustin Anello opened the scoring in Montevideo with a seventh-minute strike before goals from Gimenez and Giovanni Millan gave their side the lead at the interval.

Diego Tarzia, Gimenez and Santiago Hidalgo were on target in the second half as Independiente claimed its second win of the tournament.

The team from Avellaneda, south of Buenos Aires, is now second in Group A with six points, two behind leader Guarani. Boston River is fourth, two points further back.

Earlier in the day, Gaston Togni scored with a second-half free-kick as 2020 champion Defensa y Justicia earned a 1-1 draw at Vitoria.

Central defender Edu put the Brazilian side ahead by tapping home from point-blank range after goalkeeper Enrique Bologna fumbled what should have been a routine save from a set piece.

The Argentine outfit equalized just before the hour when Togni curled in a superb free-kick from a tight angle.

Defensa y Justicia remains last in Group B, behind Vitoria on goal difference. Both teams are still searching for their first victories of the tournament.

Elsewhere, Godoy Cruz won 1-0 at Sportivo Luqueno, Guarani drew 2-2 at Nacional Potosi, and Corinthians was held to a 1-1 home draw by America de Cali.

MIL OSI China News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Mizuho Names 2023 Mizuho Americas Open Junior Winner Yana Wilson as Brand Ambassador

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

The Epson Tour’s newest champion joins Legend Michelle Wie West and LPGA stars Rose Zhang and Ayaka Furue to form Team Mizuho

Wilson to compete in 2025 Mizuho Americas Open as sponsor exemption

NEW YORK, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mizuho Americas, the Americas arm of Mizuho Financial Group (NYSE: MFG), one of the largest financial institutions in the world and title sponsor of the Mizuho Americas Open, today announced Yana Wilson, 2023 American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Player of the Year and current rookie on the Epson Tour, as an official brand ambassador. Wilson – who earned her first professional victory on the Epson Tour this past Sunday in her hometown of Las Vegas – joins Michelle Wie West, Rose Zhang and Ayaka Furue in representing “Team Mizuho.”

After advancing to Qualifying in the LPGA Q-Series, Wilson secured guaranteed Epson Tour status for 2025 and ultimately decided to bet on herself and go pro. Prior to joining the Epson Tour, Wilson secured four AJGA victories, including winning the amateur tournament at the inaugural 2023 Mizuho Americas Open at Liberty National Golf Club.

“Watching Yana transition from a top-ranked amateur to a dedicated pro, has been an inspiring journey,” said Cheryl Gilberg, Chief Marketing Officer, Mizuho Americas. “Her win at the inaugural Mizuho Americas Open in 2023 and her impressive second-place finish in 2024 showcased not just her incredible talent, but also her unwavering determination and grace. We are thrilled to have her as part of Team Mizuho and look forward to supporting her every step of the way.”

As previously announced at the Mizuho Americas Open media day in April, Mizuho has extended a sponsor exemption for Wilson to compete in the 2025 Mizuho Americas Open May 8 – 11, at the iconic Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City. She will make history as the first player to win the tournament as a junior and return to compete as a professional.

“It’s an honor to join Team Mizuho alongside such inspiring women and accomplished golfers,” said Wilson. “Mizuho’s commitment to providing a championship experience for amateur and professional players alike is something I have been fortunate enough to experience through the Mizuho Americas Open. I am proud to represent Mizuho as they continue to help advance the next generation of talent and level the playing field for women.”

Mizuho recently renewed its title sponsor agreement for the Mizuho Americas Open through 2030 and will raise the purse to $3.25 million in 2026, one of the largest outside of the Major championships. The tournament will maintain its successful format where the AJGA’s future stars compete alongside the best women golfers in the world. The new five-year agreement will allow the marquee tournament to remain in the New York City Metro area, providing unmatched benefits to the LPGA players, AJGA junior golfers, and the local community.

The expanded ambassador program is a key component of Mizuho’s support of the LPGA. As the title sponsor of the Mizuho Americas Open, Mizuho is committed to enhancing the player experience while providing opportunity and mentorship through a new standard of competition with its pro/junior format, world-class golf course, player accommodations, and longstanding partnership with Girls Inc.

About Mizuho
Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. is one of the largest financial institutions in the world as measured by total assets of ~$2 trillion, according to S&P Global 2024. Mizuho’s 65,000 employees worldwide offer comprehensive financial services to clients in 36 countries and 850 offices throughout the Americas, EMEA, and Asia.

Mizuho Americas is a leading Corporate and Investment Bank (CIB) that provides a full spectrum of client-driven solutions across strategic advisory, capital markets, corporate banking, and fixed income and equities sales & trading to corporate, government, and institutional clients in the US, Canada, and Latin America. Through its acquisition of Greenhill, Mizuho enhanced its M&A, restructuring, and private capital advisory capabilities across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Mizuho Americas employs approximately 4,000 professionals. For more information, visit www.mizuhoamericas.com.

About the Mizuho Americas Open
The Mizuho Americas Open is a purpose-driven tournament on the LPGA Tour. As title sponsor, Mizuho Americas created and drove the vision for a distinctive and premium event that celebrates women and advances the next generation, with a charitable focus on providing leadership and life skills to young girls from underserved communities. Played at the prestigious Liberty National Golf Club, with LPGA icon Michelle Wie West as celebrity host, the tournament features an elevated purse and a unique junior component where the AJGA’s stars of tomorrow compete alongside the best women golfers in the world. The tournament is also home to the Mizuho Americas DrivHER Summit, an inspirational day of learning and activities for Girls Inc., the official charitable partner of the Mizuho Americas Open. The Summit leverages the game of golf and the LPGA to inspire the members of Girls Inc. to discover the confidence they need to become leaders in their communities.

Media Contacts

For Mizuho:
Laura London
Director, Media Relations, Mizuho
(917) 446-5226
laura.london@mizuhogroup.com

Jon Schwartz
Head of Sports, Prosek Partners
(347) 794-9633
jschwartz@prosek.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d4b7ec21-1e15-4b10-9012-601c7b5dec5a
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0a3bc026-d816-486f-9906-ade8df91f1f0
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/58b485e7-cef7-4f36-8957-b30ce9423d54
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1345499e-6536-41eb-887e-043748d4ca82

The MIL Network –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bin Collections & Recycling Centres to operate as normal over the Bank Holiday Weekend

Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

Bin Collections & Recycling Centres to operate as normal over the Bank Holiday Weekend

2 May 2025

Derry City and Strabane District Council is advising the public of service arrangements for the upcoming May Bank Holiday on Monday 5th May 2025.

Bin collections and Recycling Centres will operate as normal on Bank Holiday Monday. Residents are reminded to leave out their bins for collection as usual. The Council encourages everyone to continue recycling and to use Blue and Brown bins correctly to help reduce waste over the bank holiday weekend.

Council offices on Strand Road, Derry, and the Derry Road offices in Strabane, will be closed on Monday 5th May for the public holiday, and will resume normal service on Tuesday.

Registry Offices in both Derry and Strabane will also be closed on Monday 5th May, reopening on Tuesday 2^nd May.

The Guildhall and Tower Museum will both be open as normal and welcoming visitors over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Council-owned cemeteries will remain open and operational daily from 8:00am to 8:00pm throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.

The Council’s Out of Hours Service for ongoing dog attacks on persons or animals will be available across the holiday. To report an incident, contact 07734 128096. While there is no obligation for the Council to respond to other matters outside normal hours, the Dog Warden may assess and respond to serious voicemails left on this number.

All Council parks and greenways will be open over the Bank Holiday weekend, and the public is encouraged to enjoy the outdoor spaces responsibly, keeping areas clean and safe by using bins provided.

The Alley Theatre will be open over the Bank Holiday weekend with family-friendly activities and workshops.

Leisure Services – May Bank Holiday Schedule:

Open – Foyle Arena, Riversdale Leisure Centre, Melvin Arena, Derg Valley Leisure and Waterside Shared Village

Closed – Bishop’s Field, Brooke Park, City Baths and Templemore Sports Complex

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, encouraged everyone to enjoy the long weekend while making the most of the services available:

“I wish everyone in our community a safe and enjoyable May Bank Holiday and I hope everyone enjoys the beautiful weather we are experiencing at the minute. Please remember to recycle where possible and use our parks, greenways and leisure spaces respectfully. Let’s keep our city and district beautiful for everyone to enjoy this spring.”

For the most up-to-date information on services, visit the Council’s website:
https://www.derrystrabane.com/services/opening-hours

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – Conclave: More and more Cardinals from the countries entrusted to the Dicastery for Evangelization gather in the Sistine Chapel

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Tuesday, 6 May 2025

Foto d’archivio

by Fabio BerettaVatican City (Agenzia Fides) – With the image of Christ and the Last Judgment painted by Michelangelo on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel, the Cardinals are gathering in Conclave to elect the successor of Peter. An election in which an increasing number of cardinals from the countries under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization – Section for the First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches – are participating.To date, a total of 1,123 ecclesiastical districts (i.e., Archdioceses, Dioceses, Territorial Abbeys, Apostolic Vicariates, Apostolic Prefectures, Missions sui iuris, Apostolic Administrations, and Military Ordinariates) are subject to the Dicastery for Evangelization. Most of them are in Africa (525) and Asia (481), followed by the Americas (71) and Oceania (46).The Conclave of June 1963When John XXIII died on June 3, 1963, 82 Cardinals were still alive, all of whom had the right to participate in the election of the Successor of Peter. The rule that today prohibits Cardinals over the age of 80 from participating in the Conclave was introduced by Paul VI in 1970. Thus, the College of Cardinals that elected Pope Paul VI included Cardinals over the age of 80.Nevertheless, only 80 of them entered the Sistine Chapel. Two Cardinals did not come to Rome: the Hungarian József Mindszenty (the communist regime forbade him from leaving the country) and Carlos María Javier de la Torre, Archbishop of Quito, Ecuador (absent due to health reasons). A total of 29 nations were represented.A total of seven cardinals from the territories then under the jurisdiction of the Congregation Propaganda Fide participated in the Conclave that year: Peter Tatsuo Doi (Japan, Archbishop of Tokyo, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan), Valerian Gracias (India, Archbishop of Bombay, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India), Laurean Rugambwa (Tanzania, Bishop of Bukoba), Thomas Tien Ken-sin (China, Archbishop of Beijing, Apostolic Administrator of Taipei), and Norman Thomas Gilroy (Australia, Archbishop of Sydney, Primate of Australia, Grand Prior for Australia-New South Wales of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem).The Conclaves of 1978Paul VI was the first Pope to expand the boundaries of the College of Cardinals by appointing numerous non-European cardinals. After the death of the Pope (on August 6, 1978), who decided to exclude Cardinals over eighty from voting with the Motu Proprio “Ingravescentem Aetatem” of 21 November 1970 and modified some norms of the Conclave with the Apostolic Constitution “Romano Pontifici Eligendo” of 1 October 1975, a total of 111 cardinals were eligible to vote.At the conclave in August 1978, however, only 108 people entered the Sistine Chapel: Valerian Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, John Joseph Wright, Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, and Bolesław Filipiak, Dean Emeritus of the Roman Rota, were all absent from the Conclave for health reasons.A total of 18 cardinals from the so-called mission territories took part in the election of John Paul I, including one cardinal who works in the Roman Curia and one French cardinal who heads an archdiocese in North Africa: Bernardin Gantin (Benin, President of the Pontifical Council “Cor Unum”), Lawrence Trevor Picachy (India, Archbishop of Calcutta, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India), Justinus Darmojuwono (Indonesia, Archbishop of Semarang), Joseph Marie Anthony Cordeiro (Pakistan, Archbishop of Karachi), Stephen Kim Sou-hwan (South Korea, Archbishop of Seoul, Apostolic Administrator of Pyongyang), Thomas Benjamin Cooray (Sri Lanka, Archbishop of Colombo, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Sri Lanka), Joseph Marie Trinh-nhu-Khuê (Vietnam, Archbishop of Ha Noi), Maurice Michael Otunga (Kenya, Archbishop of Nairobi, President of the Episcopal Conference of Kenya, Military Vicar for Kenya), Victor Razafimahatratra (Madagascar, Archbishop of Antananarivo, President of the Episcopal Conference of Madagascar), Dominic Ekandem (Nigeria, Bishop of Ikot Ekpene, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria), Hyacinthe Thiandoum (Senegal, Archbishop of Dakar, President of the Episcopal Conference of Senegal, Mauritania, Cape Verde and Guinea Bissau), Owen McCann (South Africa, Archbishop of Cape Town), Laurean Rugambwa (Tanzania, Archbishop of Dar-es-Salaam) Emmanuel Kiwanuka Nsubuga (Uganda, Archbishop of Kampala), Paul Zoungrana (Burkina Faso, Archbishop of Ouagadougou), Joseph-Albert Malula (Democratic Republic of Congo, Archbishop of Kinshasa), Pio Taofinu’u (Samoa, Bishop of Samoa and Tokelau), Reginald John Delargey (New Zealand, Archbishop of Wellington, President of the New Zealand Bishops’ Conference).In 1978, a second Conclave took place just over a month after the first, as John Paul I died after only 33 days of pontificate. During this brief period, there were no Consistories, and when the cardinals met again in the Sistine Chapel in October of that year, the cardinals were the same ones who had met a few weeks earlier. They all held the same offices. Forty-six nations were represented in both Conclaves.The 2005 ConclaveThe first Conclave of the third millennium began with the reform of the conclave, which John Paul II initiated in 1996 with the Apostolic Constitution “Universi Dominici Gregis.” That year, the cardinals were accommodated for the first time in the new guesthouse Casa Santa Marta (instead of in the halls of the Apostolic Palace), which had been built specifically for this purpose. In the conclave that led to the election of Benedict XVI, 117 Cardinals were eligible to vote. A total of 115 entered the Sistine Chapel: Adolfo Antonio Suárez Rivera (Archbishop Emeritus of Monterrey, Mexico) and Jaime Lachica Sin (Archbishop Emeritus of Manila, Philippines) were unable to travel to Rome for health reasons.At the time of John Paul II’s death, the eligible Cardinals came from 52 nations on all continents. In total, there were seventeen cardinals from countries entrusted to the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, some of whom headed dicasteries and bodies of the Holy See: Wilfrid Fox Napier (South Africa, Archbishop of Durban), Gabriel Zubeir Wako (Sudan, Archbishop of Khartoum), Telesphore Placidus Toppo (India, Archbishop of Ranchi), Armand Gaétan Razafindratandra (Madagascar, Archbishop of Antananarivo), Bernard Agré (Ivory Coast, Archbishop of Abidjan), Emmanuel Wamala (Uganda, Archbishop of Kampala), Christian Wiyghan Tumi (Cameroon, Archbishop of Douala), Frédéric Etsou-Nzabi-Bamungwabi (Democratic Republic of Congo, Archbishop of Kinshasa), Francis Arinze (Nigeria, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments), Peter Seiichi Shirayanagi (Japan, Archbishop Emeritus of Tokyo), Michael Michai Kitbunchu (Thailand, Archbishop of Bangkok, President of the Thai Bishops’ Conference), Stephen Fumio Hamao (Japan, President of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People), Anthony Olubunmi Okogie (Nigeria, Archbishop of Lagos), Ivan Dias (India, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples), Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja (Indonesia, Archbishop of Jakarta, Military Bishop of Indonesia), Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Mân (Vietnam, Archbishop of Ho Chi Minh), Peter Turkson (Ghana, Archbishop of Cape Coast).The 2013 ConclaveWhen Benedict XVI announced to the world his resignation from the Petrine Ministry during a Consistory in February 2013, 117 eligible cardinals were present, but only 115 entered the Sistine Chapel. Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja (Archbishop Emeritus of Jakarta, Indonesia) and Keith Michael Patrick O’Brien (Archbishop Emeritus of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, Scotland) were absent for health reasons.During the conclave that led to the election of Pope Francis, 17 Cardinals from the territories entrusted to the Missionary Dicastery arrived in Rome. As in previous Conclaves, several of these cardinals served in the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia: Peter Turkson (Ghana, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace), Albert Malcolm Ranjith Patabendige Don (Sri Lanka, Archbishop of Colombo), Robert Sarah (Guinea, President of the Pontifical Council ‘Cor Unum’), George Alencherry (India, Archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly), Oswald Gracias (India, Archbishop of Bombay), Polycarp Pengo (Tanzania, Archbishop of Dar-es-Salaam), John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan (Nigeria, Archbishop of Abuja), John Njue (Kenya, Archbishop of Nairobi), Wilfrid Fox Napier (South Africa, Archbishop of Durban), Gabriel Zubeir Wako (Sudan, Archbishop of Khartoum), Telesphore Placidus Toppo (India, Archbishop of Ranchi), Laurent Monsengwo Pasinya (Democratic Republic of Congo, Archbishop of Kinshasa), John Tong Hon (China, Bishop of Hong Kong), Théodore-Adrien Sarr (Senegal, Archbishop of Dakar), Anthony Olubunmi Okogie (Nigeria, Archbishop of Lagos), Ivan Dias (India, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples), Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Mân (Vietnam, Archbishop of Hô Chí Minh).The 2025 ConclaveAt the time of Pope Francis’s death, there are 252 cardinals alive, of whom 135 arepotential electors for the Conclave that begins on May 7. Of these, 133 will enter the Sistine Chapel, as two of them, Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera, Archbishop Emeritus of Valencia, and Cardinal John Njue, Archbishop Emeritus of Nairobi, are absent for health reasons.It will be a Conclave with Cardinals from 66 nations. Among them are 34 from the territories under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization. Some of them come from other countries but exercise their ministry in these mission countries, just as some are active in the Roman Curia: Giorgio Marengo (Italy, Apostolic Prefect of Ulan Bator, Mongolia), Virgílio do Carmo da Silva (East Timor, Metropolitan Archbishop of Dili), Dieudonné Nzapalainga (Central African Republic, Metropolitan Archbishop of Bangui), Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla (South Sudan, Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba), Jean-Paul Vesco (France, Metropolitan Archbishop of Algiers), Soane Patita Paini Mafi (Tonga, Bishop of Tonga), Anthony Poola (India, Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad), Ignace Bessi Dogbo (Ivory Coast, Metropolitan Archbishop of Abidjan), Protase Rugambwa (Tanzania, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tabora), Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa), Stephen Chow Sau-yan (China, Bishop of Hong Kong), Antoine Kambanda (Rwanda, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kigali), Tarcisius Isao Kikuchi (Japan, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tokyo), William Goh Seng Chye (Singapore, Archbishop of Singapore), John Ribat (Papua New Guinea, Metropolitan Archbishop of Port Moresby), Stephen Brislin (South Africa, Metropolitan Archbishop of Johannesburg), Désiré Tsarahazana (Madagascar, Metropolitan Archbishop of Toamasina), Filipe Neri Ferrão (India, Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Damão), Cristóbal López Romero (Spain, Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco), Lazarus You Heung-sik (South Korea, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy), Sebastian Francis (Malaysia, Bishop of Penang), Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo (Indonesia, Metropolitan Archbishop of Jakarta), Arlindo Gomes Furtado (Cape Verde, Bishop of Santiago de Cabo Verde), Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij (Thailand, Archbishop Emeritus of Bangkok), Thomas Aquino Manyo Maeda (Japan, Metropolitan Archbishop of Osaka-Takamatsu), Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar, Metropolitan Archbishop of Yangon), Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson (Ghana, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences), John Atcherley Dew (New Zealand, Archbishop Emeritus of Wellington), Albert Malcolm Ranjith Patabendige Don (Sri Lanka, Metropolitan Archbishop of Colombo), Philippe Nakellentuba Ouédraogo (Burkina Faso, Archbishop Emeritus of Ouagadougou), Jean-Pierre Kutwa (Ivory Coast, Archbishop Emeritus of Abidjan), Joseph Coutts (Pakistan, Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi), Robert Sarah (Guinea, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments), Peter Ebere Okpaleke (Nigeria, Bishop of Ekwulobia). (Agenzia Fides, 6/5/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The winners of the term paper competition were awarded as part of the Architectural Seasons

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Yulia Kolmykova, “Historical Environment”

The SPbGASU summed up the results of the term paper competition, which took place within the framework of the International Creative Forum “Architectural Seasons”. This year, the Grand Prix went to the creative group consisting of: Ye Zijian, Zhao Yongkang, Wu Zongda and Tian Hongxu, under the direction of Chen and Lu Honggui (Zhengzhou University, China).

A total of 800 works were submitted to the competition. Students from the first to fifth years of the bachelor’s degree and the first year of the master’s degree participated. The winners were determined in two stages by voting, in which more than two thousand people took part.

200 people reached the final. 42 students were awarded the title of laureate in 14 nominations. We asked the laureates from SPbGASU to tell us about their works.

Religious building

Arina Tereshchenko, fourth-year student of the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the nomination “Religious Building” (supervised by Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage Elena Baulina and Senior Lecturer of this department Galina Fedotova):

– The project is a temple complex inspired by traditional Armenian church architecture. The project uses natural materials that are resistant to climatic conditions and time – stone, basalt, tuff, which emphasizes the connection with the historical context. In addition to the main temple, the complex includes a chapel, a church clergy house, an educational center, and a baptistery. All elements are combined into a harmonious composition with a single architectural style. The project seeks not only to recreate the architectural appearance of the Armenian church, but also to create a living spiritual space that is relevant to the modern parish and open to dialogue between cultures.

Blocked residential building

Anna Kasyanova, a third-year student of the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the nomination “Blocked Residential Building” (supervised by Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage Natalia Dubrovina, assistants of the department Gleb Bagayev and Ksenia Kakunets):

– My main task in this project is to create a clear, pleasant image of a residential building, without unnecessary details, which would organically fit into the natural environment. The image is the most difficult part of my project. I spent more than three months selecting analogs, coming up with and drawing different versions of the house, architectural details. Over time, my experience increased, and I managed to create the final image of the house.

Individual residential building

Veronika Merkul, a second-year student of the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the Individual Residential Building nomination (supervisors: Professor of the Department of Architectural Design Oleg Romanov; Deputy Dean for Academic Affairs, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural Design Elena Voitsehovskaya; Senior Lecturer of the Department of Architectural Design Varvara Khmeleva):

– In my project, I decided to follow such an architectural trend as dacha constructivism. It seemed to me that it could fully reflect the features of the design location, without claiming historicism. It was important to preserve the culture of the area, avoiding obvious remake. My decisions were influenced by the features of the site, which is located at the end of the street, due to which the house is visible from three sides and should form a dominant feature. Such elements as round or narrow rectangular windows, non-standard volumes on the roof (a reference to the surrounding pine trees) and other decor, according to my idea, should make each facade unique (so that you want to look at it), and spacious terraces encircling the main volume will allow you to fully enjoy the views of the Gulf of Finland. Under the roof, away from the household part of the building, there is an art studio, illuminated by two dormer windows. It was important that the style of the building reflect the creative interests of the owner.

Public interior

Gasan Abasov, fifth-year student of the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the nomination “Public Interior” (supervised by associate professors of the Department of Architectural Design Igor Ivanov and Maria Yakunenkova):

– The interior of the engineering center is a multifunctional space, including an entrance group with a cloakroom, a coffee shop, an exhibition space, an auditorium and a block with toilets, technical rooms and a warehouse. The dominant role in the interior of the main building of the engineering center is played by a reinforced concrete cube, as if hovering in the center of the space. It houses another exhibition area. The cube is crossed by a strip of ceiling, connecting the central building with the rest of the complex. The main source of natural light is a large-span wooden structure with stained glass glazing. Sunlight, passing through it, creates an interesting light and shadow pattern, which, in contrast to the minimalist interior, sets a bright rhythm.

Residential interior

Ekaterina Sokolova, third-year undergraduate student at the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the Residential Interior category (supervised by Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural Design Fyodor Perov, Associate Professor and Academic Secretary of the Department of Architectural Design Olga Kokorina):

– The main goal of the residential interior design project is to create functional and comfortable housing that is not only beautiful and convenient, but also meets the needs and preferences of its inhabitants. To do this, I studied the regulatory requirements for the design of residential buildings, as well as the expected life scenarios of people, their possible needs. When creating the project, I also took into account the features of the premises and its location.

Historical environment

Yulia Kolmykova, first-year student of the Master’s program at the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the Historical Environment nomination (supervised by Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage Evgeniya Shuvaeva and Senior Lecturer of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage Darya Bobrova):

– The cultural heritage site of regional significance – the Zapolye estate is located in the Luzhsky district of the Leningrad region. Before starting the work, I studied archival and bibliographic materials, identified the current problems of the territory. The objectives of the project were to increase the tourist potential of the territory, restore historical functions, and draw attention to the importance of preserving old Russian estates.

To solve the tasks set, it is proposed to adapt this territory for a children’s agronomic camp and restore the preserved historical buildings. It is also planned to restore the parterre garden and historical alleys according to archival drawings. It is supposed to locate housing for pupils and employees, as well as sports grounds and parking lots on the unguarded territory.

Hand-drawn graphics

Nadezhda Nikolaeva, a second-year undergraduate student at the Faculty of Architecture, first-degree laureate in the Hand-drawn Graphics category (supervised by senior lecturers from the Department of History and Theory of Architecture Igor Khramov and Leonid Krupnik):

– The Rostov Kremlin is depicted here, but despite its dominant position, it is not the main character. The Kremlin here is not just architecture: it is, first of all, an environment that creates an atmosphere and determines the laws of existence. The key characters are people and cows. Cows are a symbol of timelessness, well-being and tranquility, and people are the personification of progress and the change of eras. The essence of life is revealed in their interaction. Thus, the picture raises the question of the dialogue between architecture and time: something is eternal, and something changes, adapting to new realities.

Architectural photography

Artem Titov, a second-year master’s student at the Faculty of Architecture at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, and a first-degree laureate in the Architectural Photography category, spoke about his series of works, Bosnian Patches:

– Every year at the end of January, my friends and I go skiing. In search of ski resorts that we had not yet tried, we came across a little-known to Russian tourists complex in Bosnia and Herzegovina – the Jahorina ski resort, where the Winter Olympics were held in 1984. But going to another country with an interesting history just for skiing is pointless. So my friends and I put together a long route around the country, visiting several cities and architectural landmarks. Traditional wooden buildings, medieval stone structures and panel houses from the socialist period coexist here. I tried to capture all this diversity in my photos.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 7, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

The UK has secured the best deal India has ever agreed, providing businesses with security and confidence to trade with the fastest-growing economy in the G20.
Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds with Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal

Delivering Economic Growth

The core mission of this Government is to deliver economic growth that raises living standards and puts money in people’s pockets, and that is exactly what this deal will do. We estimate that it will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, add £4.8billion a year to our economy and boost wages by £2.2 billion every year in the long run. ^{footnote 1} This is the best deal India has ever agreed to. It delivers on our manifesto commitment to create trade relationships that unlock new opportunities for businesses across all our nations and regions.

Case study – Standard Chartered

Standard Chartered is a leading UK-based international banking group with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. It is the largest and oldest foreign bank in India, acting as a ‘super connector’ of cross-border trade and investment by driving commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity for more than 165 years.

Saif Malik, CEO, UK and Head of Coverage, UK, Standard Chartered, said:

The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor.

We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.

Case study – UPS

UPS is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2024 revenue of $91.1 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories, including connecting the United Kingdom and India.

Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, said:

We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network.

We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

Future-Proofing Our Economy

This deal gives UK businesses first-mover advantage with a new economic superpower. Currently the biggest country in the world by population, India is projected to move from its fifth-largest global economy to third in the next three years, thanks to the highest growth rate in the G20. ^{footnote 2} By the end of the decade, it will be home to an estimated 60 million middle-class consumers, whose numbers are projected to grow to a quarter of a billion by 2050. ^{footnote 3} And by 2035, their demand for imports is on course to top £1.4 trillion. ^{footnote 4} The enormous scope of this market, where British goods and services are already sought after, represents an equally huge opportunity for UK businesses in the decades to come.

Case study – John Smedley Ltd

Established in 1784 in Lea Mills, Derbyshire, John Smedley Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer and retailer of luxury knitwear.

Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said:

India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.

John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been finalised, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.

We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

Cutting costs for UK-India trade

From day one, this deal will support businesses across the United Kingdom by making it cheaper, easier, and quicker to trade with India. The deal will slash costs on UK exports, including whiskies and gin, cosmetics, medical devices, advanced machinery and lamb. Based on current trade alone, India’s tariff cuts amount to £400m in the first year, going up around £900m after 10 years. ^{footnote 5} And that’s before factoring in the savings from speedier and easier trade from improved customs and digital commitments. This immediate relief represents a major advantage our businesses will enjoy over their international competitors, helping them to invest, expand, and support more high-quality jobs.

Case study – Smith+Nephew

Smith+Nephew designs and manufactures technology that takes the limits off living. Smith+Nephew’s products include: Advanced Wound Management; orthopaedics and a robot assisted surgery system; and joint preservation and soft tissue orthopaedics.

Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said:

Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector.

We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

Delivering opportunities for High-Growth Sectors

This deal supports the UK’s world-leading high-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy, including:

Slashing tariffs for UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors, including for automotives, electrical machinery and high-end optical products.

Giving the clean energy industry brand new and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, as India makes the switch to renewable energy, alongside their growing energy demand.

Unlocking new opportunities for medical devices firms within the life sciences sector, with reduced tariffs and rules of origin that factor in the UK’s complex supply chains and ensure that businesses can reap the benefits.

Enshrining copyright protections for the creative sector, enabling our exporters to feel confident exporting to India with a commitment that works will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. India will also commit to engaging on aspects of Copyright and Related Rights. This deal addresses the interests of UK creators, rights holders, and consumers, including around Public Performance Rights and Artist Resale Rights, which acknowledge the importance of payment rights. India will also conduct an internal review of their copyright protection terms.

Guaranteeing access for the UK’s world-class financial and professional business services sectors to India’s growing market. This is on top of securing India’s foreign investment cap for the insurance sector, ensuring UK financial services companies are treated equally to domestic suppliers, and encouraging the recognition of professional qualifications.

Securing India’s best ever commitments on digital trade for our Digital and technology sectors, such as promoting digital systems and paperless trade, helping UK businesses of all sizes take the opportunities on offer in this huge and rapidly expanding market.

Case study – Premier League

The Premier League is the world’s most-watched football competition, reaching 1.6 billion viewers in 189 countries around the world. The global success of the Premier League makes it one of the UK’s most significant soft power assets, amplifying British cultural values and generating economic growth and inward investment.

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:

India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.

The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.

Case study – EY

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fuelled by sector insights, a globally connected, multidisciplinary network and a diverse ecosystem of partners, EY teams provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

Rohan Malik, EMEIA and UKI Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, EY, said:

This agreement is poised to accelerate an economic partnership that is already thriving, with the value of total trade between the UK and India having more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn over the last decade.

British businesses stand to benefit substantially from enhanced access to one of the world’s largest export markets and a skills pool that can fuel strategically important UK sectors, including professional services and emerging industries based around data and AI.

Case study – Concrete Canvas Ltd

Concrete Canvas Ltd is a Wales-based low-carbon concrete manufacturer.

William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said:

India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive.

This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

Case study – Biopanda

Biopanda is a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories.

Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, said:

Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years.

We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.

This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer.

Unlocking Opportunities Nationwide

Through our Plan for Change, this government will raise living standards in every part of the United Kingdom. This deal supports that goal, unlocking new opportunities in every region and nation.

This deal also opens a huge new market for iconic UK brands, securing India’s best ever tariff offer and providing access to India’s growing middle-class consumer base, which will give iconic UK brands the opportunity to expand their reach and influence. This access includes cutting tariffs on whiskies from 150% to 75% at entry into force, following to 40% after 10 years, as well as on other agri-food products such as soft drinks dropping from 33% to 0% after seven years, and lamb dropping from 33% to 0% at entry into force. Separately high-end cars will benefit from a drop from over 100% to 10% under a quota. We have also secured India’s best ever agreement on Rules of Origin, which enables UK businesses to take advantage of these new lower tariffs.

This deal will also support consumers as they benefit from the best of India and greater variety as our trading relationship grows, including clothing, footwear, and iconic food and drink. New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent.

Case study – Chivas Brothers Ltd

Chivas Brothers Ltd is part of the Pernod Ricard group of companies and exports over £2bn of Scotch whisky and gin every year, including brands like Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet and Beefeater. India is amongst Chivas Brothers’ largest export markets and the biggest consumer of whisky worldwide by volume. The UK-India trade agreement will help solidify and potentially expand on Pernod Ricard’s existing investments, which includes a €200m distillery construction in the Indian state of Maharashtra and £100m in bottling facilities in Dumbarton, Scotland.

Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

The announcement of a free trade agreement in principle between the UK and India is a welcome boost for Chivas Brothers during an uncertain global economic environment.

India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be a game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s. The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland, as well as help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade. Slàinte to the UK Ministers and officials who steered the deal though long negotiations.

Case study – Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with a collection of brands across spirits and beer categories sold in more than 180 countries around the world. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoﬀ, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a leading player in India’s beverage alcohol sector and is among the top 10 fast-moving consumer goods companies in India by market capitalisation. Diageo has 50 manufacturing facilities across India, employs over 3,300 people directly in market with a further 100,000 jobs supported throughout its value chain. India is one of Diageo’s largest markets globally and accounts for almost half of its total global spirits volume.

Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said:

The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a huge achievement by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer and Ministers Goyal and Reynolds, and all of us at Diageo toast their success. It will be transformational for Scotch and Scotland, while powering jobs and investment in both India and the UK.

The deal will also increase quality and choice for discerning consumers across India, the world’s largest and most exciting whisky market.

Enhancing Security through our partnership

The UK and India already enjoy a deep and broad partnership built on our shared principles as two democracies, our commitment to the rules-based international order, strong ties in areas including culture, education, food, and sport, and of course through our living bridge – with some 1.9 million people with Indian heritage calling the UK their home. ^{footnote 6}

This agreement encourages collaboration between our two complementary economies. It creates a framework to promote closer ties on innovation – including on new technologies in areas like agriculture, health, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. And our agreement on business mobility will help experts on both sides deliver their services, enabling us to capitalise on the economic transformation that technology will bring over the course of this century.

Through this deal, we are showing the world that we stand for free, fair, and open trade. In an increasingly unstable and volatile world, this provides businesses with the confidence that they need to grow and expand. And as India’s approach to global trade changes, so can this deal. We have agreed in numerous areas that, if India offer a better deal to a different country, we can come back to the table to renegotiate for the UK.

Case study – Coltraco Ultrasonics

Coltraco Ultrasonics are high-exporting advanced manufacturers of ultrasonic instrumentation and systems, exporting 90% manufactured output to 120 countries. Coltraco have twice won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade and have exported to India for 30 years. Since 2019, Coltraco have won the contract for nearly 200 ships of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard and support in-service use and maintenance of their ultrasonic watertight integrity instrumentation on board.

Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said:

Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.

The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.

It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

Unlocking Access to India’s Untapped Procurement Market

For the first time, UK businesses will have guaranteed and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, covering goods, services and construction. UK businesses will be granted brand new access to approximately 40,000 tenders with a value of at least £38 billion a year. ^{footnote 8} This will unlock significant opportunities spanning a range of sectors, including transport, healthcare and life sciences and green energy. Alongside this UK firms will, for the first time, have access to India’s procurement portal, connecting them to the information they need to make the best out of these opportunities – which will grow as India builds the infrastructure necessary for an economic superpower with the world’s largest population.

UK companies will also get exclusive treatment under the ‘Make in India’ policy, which currently provides preferential treatment for federal government procurement to businesses who manufacture or produce in India. However, this unprecedented treatment will mean that if at least 20% of a company’s product or service is from the UK, they will be treated as a ‘Class Two local supplier’– granting them the same status that is currently only ever given to Indian businesses.

Protecting Our Values

Throughout the negotiations, we have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, the environment, gender equality, and development. We have protected the NHS, defended the UK’s interests, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. This deal demonstrates our commitment to both workers and businesses, staying true to our values while driving economic growth.

1. DBT CGE modelling. See Technical Annex

2. World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024

3. Projections are calculated using the methodology described in DBT’s Global Trade Outlook, February 2023

4. Ibid.

5. The methodology for estimating the value of duties can be found in Annex 5 of the technical annexes accompanying the UK-India FTA Scoping assessment

6. 2021 England and Wales Census; 2021 NI Census; 2011 Scottish Census

7. DBT inward investment results 2023 to 2024 (HTML version) – GOV.UK; ; Grant Thornton, Britain meets India 2024; Grant Thornton, India meets Britain tracker: 2023.

8. This analysis utilises Top 200 Entity data from India’s e-procurement dashboard, for the financial years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23, which is not exhaustively used by all federal government agencies for all procurements. Therefore, several entities included within India’s market access schedule cannot be included within the analysis. This analysis does not take into account restrictions on access as a result of Make in India, the chapter thresholds and tenders for goods or services not covered by the government procurement chapter.

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Published 6 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 7, 2025

Venue / Year	2022 (Note 3)	2023	2024
Stadia (Note 1)	90 (667 954)	114 (803 632)	117 (938 522)
Performing arts venues (Note 2)	420 (82 562)	607 (125 764)	721 (133 318)

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Updates to this page