Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI: Best Bad Credit Lending Provider for Personal Loans with Low Credit Online

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In This Article, You’ll Discover:

    • The real reasons why individuals with poor credit face repeated loan rejections
    • How bad credit personal loans work and why online lending platforms are reshaping access
    • What makes MoneyMutual the best bad credit lending provider for 2025 borrowers
    • Step-by-step instructions for applying for a personal loan with low credit online
    • Common red flags and how to avoid predatory or risky loan providers
    • The exact features and benefits that set MoneyMutual apart from other platforms
    • Eligibility requirements, typical loan terms, and how fast approvals happen
    • Security, transparency, and the technology behind MoneyMutual’s loan-matching process
    • Key disclaimers about loan terms, interest rates, and always checking official pricing
    • Real-world borrower use cases, customer experiences, and how to get started confidently

    TL;DR Summary:

    For borrowers facing financial challenges and low credit scores, getting approved for a personal loan can feel impossible. This comprehensive guide reviews the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online in 2025—MoneyMutual. It outlines the pain points of traditional borrowing, the benefits of FinTech-powered platforms, and the step-by-step process to safely apply for quick, no-obligation loan offers from vetted lenders.

    Readers will gain insight into how MoneyMutual protects personal data, matches users with appropriate lenders, and provides access to emergency cash, without predatory fees or gimmicks. With a clear explanation of eligibility, loan types, approval timelines, and platform features, this article positions MoneyMutual as a trusted marketplace solution for consumers with bad or limited credit histories.

    Introduction

    In today’s fast-paced, digitally-driven world, financial uncertainty can strike anyone, especially those with less-than-perfect credit. Whether you’re facing an unexpected car repair, a sudden medical bill, or simply need help making ends meet until your next paycheck, having poor credit often feels like an inescapable trap. Traditional banks and lenders are quick to turn down applicants with low credit scores, leaving many Americans feeling powerless, overwhelmed, and alone.

    But that’s where online lending platforms are changing the game—and among them, one name consistently rises to the top: MoneyMutual.

    If you’ve been searching for the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online, this article is for you. We’ll explore why so many people struggle to get approved, how online platforms like MoneyMutual are creating real opportunities for financial freedom, and why this particular service may be the most trusted, accessible, and secure choice in 2025.

    You’ll walk away understanding:

    • Why your credit score impacts your loan eligibility
    • How personal loans for low credit really work
    • What makes MoneyMutual stand out from other lending providers
    • The risks to avoid when applying online
    • How to safely and effectively use the MoneyMutual platform
    • All the essential business details: pricing, terms, repayment, and customer support

    This guide was created to empower people with poor credit to make informed, safe borrowing decisions—without pressure, confusion, or risk.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide financial or legal advice. Always consult a licensed financial advisor before making borrowing decisions. Terms and loan offers vary by lender. MoneyMutual is a free platform and does not issue loans directly.

    The Bad Credit Borrower’s Dilemma: Why People Struggle to Get Approved

    For millions of Americans, having a low credit score isn’t just a number—it’s a daily obstacle. Whether you’ve experienced a job loss, struggled with medical bills, or simply missed a few payments during hard times, bad credit can feel like an invisible fence, constantly limiting your financial freedom.

    What Is Considered Bad Credit?

    In the eyes of most traditional lenders, a credit score below 580 is generally classified as poor. That number alone can disqualify you from most conventional personal loans or credit lines. The credit scoring model, developed by agencies like FICO and VantageScore, takes into account payment history, credit utilization, account age, and other financial behaviors. Unfortunately, even a few mistakes can trigger long-lasting effects.

    Common Reasons for Low Credit Scores

    Many people with low credit are not irresponsible—they’re simply dealing with difficult circumstances. Some of the most common triggers include:

    • Job loss or inconsistent income
    • Emergency medical expenses
    • Divorce or major life changes
    • Lack of access to financial education
    • Early misuse of credit cards or loans
    • Co-signing on someone else’s defaulted loan

    These situations often spiral. Once you miss a payment, fees and interest snowball. Over time, the damage compounds, and your borrowing power shrinks dramatically.

    How Bad Credit Impacts Borrowing Power

    Even if you find a lender willing to consider your application, the odds are stacked against you. You’ll likely face:

    • Higher interest rates
    • Lower loan amounts
    • Shorter repayment terms
    • Stricter income and employment requirements
    • Collateral demands, even for small loans

    This creates a frustrating loop: you need a loan to get back on your feet, but you can’t qualify for one without already being financially secure.

    The Psychological Toll of Loan Rejection

    Beyond financial barriers, the emotional toll of rejection cannot be overstated. Repeated denials lead to stress, shame, and in some cases, complete avoidance of financial planning. This isolation only increases reliance on payday lenders or predatory services—traps that make it harder to rebuild.

    Why Traditional Banks Often Say No

    Most traditional banks use automated systems to filter applications. If your credit report shows delinquencies, collections, or a score below a set threshold, you’re likely to be instantly rejected without further review.

    They may not take into account:

    • Your current income or job stability
    • Your personal story or financial turnaround efforts
    • Your willingness to commit to repayment

    This one-size-fits-all model excludes a large portion of the population—those with financial hardship but genuine repayment potential.

    Enter Online Lending Platforms

    Fortunately, alternative lending platforms have emerged to bridge this gap. These platforms—such as MoneyMutual—are designed with financial inclusion in mind. They consider a broader range of data points, prioritize user-friendly applications, and match borrowers to lenders willing to work with credit-challenged applicants.

    These new solutions are making it possible to find personal loans with low credit online, without the red tape of traditional institutions.

    Need fast cash but have bad credit? Get matched with real lenders in minutes through MoneyMutual—no fees, no pressure. Start your free request today!

    What Makes Personal Loans for Bad Credit Risky – and What to Watch Out For

    For borrowers with low credit scores, the search for emergency funds online can feel like navigating a minefield. While some platforms genuinely aim to help, others are built to exploit desperation. When you’re looking for the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online, it’s critical to understand where the dangers lie and how to protect yourself from predatory practices.

    The Rise of Predatory Lending

    Predatory lenders specialize in targeting people with limited financial options. They often advertise “guaranteed approval” or “no credit check loans,” but these offers come with strings attached—like excessively high interest rates, deceptive terms, and aggressive collection tactics.

    These companies rely on borrower vulnerability, offering fast cash but locking users into risky agreements that feature triple-digit APRs, balloon payments, short and rigid repayment terms, and penalty structures that can double or even triple the original debt. A small $500 loan, for example, can spiral into a $2,000 repayment burden in a matter of weeks.

    Disclaimer: If a loan offer sounds too good to be true, especially with bad credit, it likely is. Borrowers should always read the fine print and confirm lender credentials before signing anything.

    Payday Loans vs. Installment Loans: Know the Difference

    A common trap for consumers with low credit is the payday loan, which typically requires full repayment—plus steep fees—by your next paycheck. While these loans may seem like a quick fix, they are notoriously difficult to escape and often lead to multiple rollovers or refinancing cycles.

    Installment loans for bad credit, by comparison, are structured to be repaid in consistent, fixed amounts over a longer timeframe, typically ranging from three months to two years or more. These loans allow borrowers to better plan monthly payments, avoid hidden rollover charges, and gain more financial control.

    In general, payday loans come with extremely high interest rates (sometimes exceeding 300% APR) and very short repayment periods, making them difficult to manage. Installment loans, especially when obtained through trusted platforms like MoneyMutual, often offer significantly lower APRs and much more manageable terms.

    Hidden Fees and Red Flags to Watch For

    Many predatory lenders disguise fees in complex loan agreements or bury important terms in fine print. Here are several warning signs to be aware of:

    • Excessive origination fees that are above industry averages
    • Prepayment penalties that punish you for paying off early
    • Late fees that grow quickly and exponentially
    • Websites with no physical address, verified contact information, or customer service support
    • High-pressure tactics to make you commit quickly, like “limited-time approval” offers

    These practices are designed to trap borrowers into long-term debt, not help them escape it.

    The Importance of Loan Transparency

    Legitimate lending providers should always be upfront about their loan terms, including:

    • The full range of potential APRs
    • Monthly repayment expectations
    • Total cost of the loan
    • The duration and structure of repayment
    • The support resources available for customer questions

    MoneyMutual is a loan marketplace—not a direct lender—and its platform is designed to connect borrowers only with lenders that have been vetted for transparency and reliability. Users are under no obligation to accept any offer, and the service is free to use.

    Disclaimer: MoneyMutual does not guarantee loan approval. All lending terms are determined by the individual lender. It is the borrower’s responsibility to review all conditions carefully before accepting any loan offer.

    How to Spot a Legitimate Lender

    Before entering any personal information on a loan website, take a moment to verify its legitimacy. Make sure the site uses secure HTTPS encryption, clearly lists a privacy policy and terms of service, and offers real customer support through email, phone, or chat. Confirm that loan disclosures are visible before you agree to anything, and ensure the lender is legally licensed to operate in your state.

    Taking these steps helps protect your finances and your personal data.

    Don’t let a low credit score hold you back. Apply now on MoneyMutual and explore personal loan offers without affecting your credit. It’s fast and free!

    Why MoneyMutual Stands Out in 2025

    With countless online lending services vying for attention, it can be difficult to separate legitimate platforms from those that overpromise and underdeliver. Yet, among the many options for borrowers seeking personal loans with low credit online, MoneyMutual continues to emerge as one of the most reliable and accessible solutions available today.

    This section explores why MoneyMutual is widely regarded as the best bad credit lending provider for individuals navigating financial difficulty in 2025—and why its system is built to empower, not exploit, those with low credit scores.

    A Trusted Name With a Proven Track Record

    MoneyMutual has spent over a decade serving as a digital bridge between borrowers and lenders. Originally rising to national visibility through endorsements and educational campaigns, the platform has since become a trusted name in the online lending space, especially for those dealing with credit challenges.

    Rather than offering direct loans, MoneyMutual functions as a loan marketplace. This means that when you submit a request, you’re not applying to just one lender. Instead, you’re being matched with a network of verified lending partners who are willing to work with borrowers who have poor or limited credit histories.

    This approach allows for broader access, more choices, and a higher likelihood of finding a lender that fits your needs, all without damaging your credit score with multiple hard inquiries.

    How the Platform Works

    MoneyMutual’s process is designed to be quick, intuitive, and secure. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

    1. Submit a short form – You provide basic personal and financial details online.
    2. Get matched instantly – The system evaluates your info and matches you with eligible lenders.
    3. Review your offers – You receive potential loan offers in minutes or hours.
    4. Select and proceed – You can review terms in full and finalize your application with the lender directly.

    Importantly, there is no obligation to accept any offer. If you don’t find terms you’re comfortable with, you can walk away with no cost or consequence.

    This system empowers borrowers with control and transparency, qualities often missing from high-risk lending services.

    No Upfront Fees, No Gimmicks

    One of the biggest concerns for people with bad credit is being asked to pay money just to apply. MoneyMutual eliminates that risk completely. The service is 100% free for users. You are never charged an upfront fee to submit your information or to receive loan offers.

    All profits are made by the platform through partnerships with lenders, not by extracting fees from financially vulnerable applicants.

    Disclaimer: While MoneyMutual itself is free to use, individual lenders may include loan origination fees, late payment fees, or other charges. Be sure to carefully read and understand all terms before accepting any offer. Loan conditions and availability are set solely by the lender.

    Fast Approval and Funding Options

    Speed matters when you’re in a financial bind. That’s why many borrowers value MoneyMutual’s fast-turnaround process. Most users receive loan offers within minutes of submitting the application, and funding can often occur within 24 hours of acceptance, depending on the lender’s process and the borrower’s banking institution.

    This level of efficiency is a major advantage for those seeking emergency loans for bad credit or same-day personal loans without traditional red tape.

    User-Friendly and Safe to Use

    MoneyMutual’s website is mobile-friendly, secure, and built with user experience in mind. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use it. The interface guides you through every step and prioritizes privacy at all times.

    The platform also uses SSL encryption and follows strict data protection protocols to safeguard sensitive information like your Social Security number, employment history, and income.

    Disclaimer: MoneyMutual does not issue loans and cannot guarantee approval or specific rates. All loan terms are determined by participating lenders. Always verify a lender’s full offer before agreeing to any financial obligation.

    A Platform Designed for Financial Inclusion

    Above all, MoneyMutual has positioned itself as a leader in financial inclusion, making the borrowing process more accessible to those who have often been excluded by traditional banks.

    By using technology to connect borrowers with non-traditional lenders willing to consider more than just a credit score, the platform plays a critical role in reshaping how personal loans are issued and who gets access to them.

    For those searching online for the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit, this combination of speed, trust, security, and choice makes MoneyMutual a clear standout in 2025.

    Struggling with bad credit? MoneyMutual helps you find personal loans online quickly and safely. Take 3 minutes and apply now—your funds could arrive tomorrow

    How to Apply for a Personal Loan Through MoneyMutual

    Applying for a personal loan with bad credit doesn’t have to be complicated, intimidating, or time-consuming. With MoneyMutual, the entire process is streamlined to minimize friction and maximize accessibility, especially for those who’ve been rejected or discouraged by traditional financial institutions.

    This section walks you through the exact steps required to apply through MoneyMutual’s platform, what to expect, and how to get your money fast if you’re approved.

    Step-by-Step: How It Works

    1. Complete the Free Online Form

    Begin by visiting the MoneyMutual website and filling out a secure form with your basic details. You’ll be asked for:

    • Full name and contact information
    • Income source and employment status
    • Monthly income (must meet the minimum, usually $800/month)
    • Banking details (for potential direct deposit)

    The form typically takes about five minutes to complete and does not require a hard credit check at this stage.

    2. Get Matched With Lenders

    Once your information is submitted, the platform’s system goes to work. Using an algorithm that factors in your credit standing, income level, and other criteria, MoneyMutual matches you with lenders in their network that may be able to serve your unique financial profile.

    This network includes companies specializing in personal loans for low credit, installment loans for bad credit, and even emergency loan options for those in urgent need.

    3. Review Loan Offers in Minutes

    In many cases, pre-qualified offers appear within minutes. Each lender will present their terms, including:

    • Loan amount range
    • Estimated APR
    • Monthly repayment schedule
    • Total cost of the loan
    • Fees (if any)

    This is your opportunity to evaluate all your options carefully. You are under no obligation to proceed with any offer.

    Disclaimer: Terms and rates are presented by individual lenders and may vary. Always review the full loan agreement before accepting. MoneyMutual does not guarantee loan approval or specific conditions.

    4. Choose Your Lender and Finalize the Loan

    If you find an offer that suits your needs, you’ll proceed to the lender’s website to complete their application and provide any necessary documentation. This may include verification of income or banking details, depending on the lender’s requirements.

    Once finalized, funding can often occur within 24 hours.

    5. Receive Funds Directly Into Your Bank Account

    Approved borrowers generally receive their funds through direct deposit into their checking account. Depending on the time of approval and your bank’s processing speed, money may arrive as early as the next business day.

    Eligibility Requirements

    MoneyMutual is designed to be inclusive, but there are still basic eligibility rules you must meet before applying:

    • You must be at least 18 years old
    • You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
    • You must earn a verifiable income (typically $800 or more per month)
    • You must have an active checking account in your name

    These requirements help ensure that lenders can evaluate your repayment potential, even if your credit history isn’t perfect.

    No Impact on Credit Score to Check Offers

    One of the most borrower-friendly aspects of the MoneyMutual process is that the initial application does not trigger a hard credit inquiry. This means you can explore your loan options without risking a drop in your credit score—something especially important for people already trying to rebuild.

    Disclaimer: Final loan approval may involve a hard credit pull, but that process happens only after you choose to proceed with a specific lender.

    Safe, Secure, and Private

    MoneyMutual uses advanced security protocols, including data encryption, to protect your personal information at every step. The form is hosted on a secure server, and the platform does not sell your data to third-party marketers.

    This gives you the ability to search for personal loans with low credit online in a way that is private, protected, and respectful of your financial situation.

    Rejected elsewhere? MoneyMutual connects you with lenders who understand bad credit. Apply now and compare real offers—no obligation to accept!

    Features, Loan Terms, and Eligibility

    When considering a personal loan—especially one tailored for bad credit—transparency around loan terms and eligibility criteria is critical. Unlike traditional banks that often bury key details in fine print, the MoneyMutual platform gives borrowers the ability to compare offers upfront and select the loan structure that works best for their specific needs and financial circumstances.

    This section explores the loan features commonly available through the MoneyMutual network, typical repayment terms, who qualifies, and what to expect after acceptance.

    Typical Loan Amounts and Use Cases

    While individual lenders ultimately determine the loan amounts they offer, MoneyMutual borrowers can typically expect access to loans ranging from $200 to $5,000. The size of your loan offer depends on several factors, including:

    • Monthly income
    • Employment status
    • Existing debts
    • Banking history

    These loans are designed to cover a wide range of emergency or short-term needs, such as:

    • Car repairs or maintenance
    • Rent or utility bills
    • Medical expenses
    • Unexpected travel or family emergencies
    • Debt consolidation
    • Small business cash flow needs

    Whether you’re searching for same-day loans, emergency loans for bad credit, or installment loans for low credit scores, the MoneyMutual platform accommodates a variety of needs with fast matching and no unnecessary complications.

    Repayment Terms and Flexibility

    One of the benefits of using MoneyMutual is that you’re not locked into a single repayment structure. Because the platform connects you with multiple lenders, you can compare loan terms and select one that aligns with your financial plan.

    While terms vary by lender, common options include:

    • Repayment periods from 90 days to 24 months or longer
    • Fixed monthly payments that remain consistent throughout the loan
    • Clear visibility into total loan costs before acceptance
    • Option to repay early (in most cases) without penalties

    Disclaimer: Specific repayment terms, interest rates, and prepayment policies are determined by the lender. Always review the full loan agreement before proceeding.

    Interest Rates and Fee Structures

    APR rates offered through lenders in the MoneyMutual network vary widely based on credit profile, loan amount, and loan term. However, they typically fall within a broad range that may span from 5.99% to 35.99%, depending on the risk profile of the borrower and the lender’s policy.

    Other potential fees may include:

    • Loan origination fees
    • Late payment charges
    • Non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees
    • Optional add-on services (if offered)

    MoneyMutual does not charge users to access or use the platform, and there are no fees for submitting your initial loan request.

    Disclaimer on pricing: Always check the lender’s full terms before accepting any offer. Pricing, rates, and fees are subject to change at any time. Refer to the official MoneyMutual website and your selected lender for the most current and accurate information.

    Who Is Eligible?

    MoneyMutual’s lending partners aim to serve borrowers who may be overlooked by traditional institutions. While final loan decisions are made by lenders individually, general eligibility guidelines include:

    • Minimum age: 18 years
    • Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
    • Minimum monthly income requirement (commonly $800+)
    • Must have an active checking account for deposit and repayment purposes

    These inclusive criteria open the door for people with a wide range of credit scores to access funds quickly and without embarrassment.

    Designed for People With Bad Credit

    Unlike banks that prioritize high FICO scores, many of the lenders within MoneyMutual’s network place greater emphasis on income stability, repayment history on current accounts, and overall financial patterns rather than credit score alone.

    This makes the platform especially valuable for:

    • Individuals recovering from past financial hardship
    • Borrowers with recent delinquencies or limited credit history
    • Self-employed individuals or gig workers with variable income

    If you’re searching for the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online, this type of flexibility and responsiveness is exactly what sets MoneyMutual apart.

    Get peace of mind fast. Use MoneyMutual’s trusted platform to apply for bad credit personal loans online—no cost, no hassle, just options. Apply now!

    Is It Safe? Security, Transparency, and Customer Support

    When applying for personal loans online—especially with bad credit—it’s normal to feel skeptical or cautious. Many borrowers have heard horror stories of identity theft, phishing scams, or bait-and-switch loan offers that leave them in worse financial shape than when they started.

    That’s why it’s essential to use a platform that emphasizes transparency, trust, and secure technology at every step. MoneyMutual has structured its service to give borrowers the tools and peace of mind they need to apply with confidence.

    Built on Trust and Industry Longevity

    MoneyMutual has been operating for over a decade, connecting millions of users with lenders that provide personal loans for low credit profiles. Unlike newer platforms or unfamiliar lenders, it’s a name that many borrowers recognize and associate with safety, ease of use, and fast results.

    Its business model is also clear and consumer-first: MoneyMutual is a loan connection platform, not a direct lender. It does not make decisions about approval, rates, or loan terms. Instead, it acts as a bridge, bringing borrowers and lenders together in a single, secure location.

    Because of this structure, the company never pressures you into taking a loan, and it does not benefit from steering you toward any particular lender. Your options are entirely your own to evaluate.

    Encryption and Data Protection

    Security is a top priority for any financial application, and MoneyMutual has implemented multiple layers of protection to ensure your personal data is never compromised. The platform uses SSL encryption for all data transfers, which means your information is protected from third-party interception during the application process.

    In addition:

    • Sensitive information (like Social Security numbers and banking details) is never stored long-term
    • The site complies with federal data privacy standards
    • Information submitted is used solely to match you with lenders
    • User data is not sold to external marketers or spam networks

    This commitment to data protection makes MoneyMutual a trustworthy resource for people seeking personal loans with low credit online, especially when privacy is non-negotiable.

    Disclaimer: Although MoneyMutual follows strict security protocols, users should still exercise caution by verifying any lender communication and never providing login credentials to unsolicited sources.

    Transparent Terms and Zero Pressure

    One of the platform’s key benefits is the no-obligation structure it follows. When you submit a request through MoneyMutual, you’ll receive potential loan offers from vetted lenders, but you’re never required to accept one.

    Each offer clearly outlines the following details before you commit:

    • Loan amount
    • Repayment term and schedule
    • Interest rate or APR
    • All fees and the total repayment estimate
    • Contact information for the lender

    This upfront clarity allows you to compare multiple offers side by side and choose only what feels right for your budget.

    Disclaimer: Individual lenders may have varying disclosure practices. Be sure to request full loan documentation and carefully review all conditions before agreeing to any offer.

    Responsive Customer Support

    MoneyMutual offers multiple ways to get in touch if you need help navigating the platform, have concerns about a lender, or simply want to confirm information. While customer service policies and response times may vary slightly, typical support options include:

    • Email contact forms for general inquiries
    • A dedicated support section with FAQs
    • Guidance through the application process, if needed

    If your issue involves a specific lender, MoneyMutual will direct you to that provider for resolution, as it does not manage loans directly. However, the platform remains available as a point of contact for platform-related questions or concerns.

    A Marketplace Designed With Borrower Safety in Mind

    By offering fast access to a diverse network of lenders, without selling data or charging fees, MoneyMutual has built a reputation as one of the safest online marketplaces for people seeking personal loans for bad credit. From encryption to transparency and helpful customer service, the platform’s infrastructure is designed to reduce friction and protect borrowers from unnecessary risk.

    If you’ve been hesitant to apply for loans online because of safety concerns, MoneyMutual offers a path forward that’s structured for protection, not pressure.

    Don’t wait for banks to say no again. MoneyMutual connects you with lenders ready to help—apply today and see offers in just minutes!

    Real-World Use Cases & Testimonials

    One of the best ways to understand how a lending platform works is through the lens of those who’ve used it. While every financial situation is different, the flexibility and speed of MoneyMutual have made it a preferred option for thousands of borrowers seeking personal loans with low credit online.

    This section walks through several realistic borrower profiles that reflect common financial needs and how the MoneyMutual platform helped connect them with timely solutions. These use cases are illustrative and based on typical user experiences. They do not guarantee specific results.

    Disclaimer: Individual outcomes may vary. These are generalized examples provided for illustrative purposes only and do not represent endorsements or claims.

    Emergency Auto Repair – Jacob, 32, Delivery Driver

    Jacob relies on his car to work for multiple app-based delivery services. When his transmission failed unexpectedly, he needed $1,200 to cover repairs. With a credit score in the mid-500s and no access to credit cards, he turned to MoneyMutual.

    He completed the quick application form on a weekday morning and received several loan offers within the hour. He selected an installment loan with a 6-month repayment term and received the funds the next day. The platform’s speed and simplicity allowed him to get back to work without interruption.

    Medical Expenses – Liana, 26, Self-Employed Freelancer

    Liana works as a freelance graphic designer and doesn’t have traditional health insurance. After an emergency room visit left her with a medical bill she couldn’t afford up front, she explored bad credit personal loans online.

    MoneyMutual connected her with a lender offering a $2,500 loan over a 12-month term. The offer included full transparency on interest rate, fees, and repayment schedule—something she hadn’t found with other platforms. While she carefully reviewed the terms and sought guidance from a financial advisor before accepting, the flexible repayment structure helped her manage the expense without defaulting on other bills.

    Disclaimer: This example is for general educational purposes. Consult a licensed financial expert before accepting any loan to cover medical costs.

    Rent Shortfall – Tonya, 44, Recently Divorced

    After a sudden divorce disrupted Tonya’s finances, she found herself a few hundred dollars short on rent. With most of her emergency savings depleted and a credit score below 600 due to past credit card debt, she feared eviction was around the corner.

    MoneyMutual matched her with a short-term loan provider offering $750 with a 60-day repayment window. Though the interest rate was higher than a traditional bank loan, it was manageable, and the funds were deposited in her account within 24 hours. The process helped her maintain housing stability during a critical transition.

    Business Inventory Gap – Carlos, 38, Local Retailer

    Carlos owns a small online shop that experienced a surge in demand. He needed a few thousand dollars to restock inventory quickly but had been declined by his local bank due to a prior loan default from years ago.

    Through MoneyMutual, he found a lender willing to work with his current income and business documentation, even with past credit issues. The loan allowed him to bridge the cash flow gap and capitalize on seasonal demand without interrupting operations.

    Low credit? No problem. Submit your free loan request through MoneyMutual now and get matched with lenders who get it—money may arrive in 24 hours!

    How MoneyMutual Compares to Other Loan Services

    When searching for the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of platforms making similar promises. From payday loan companies to emerging FinTech apps, the space is filled with options, but not all are created equal.

    This section provides a clear side-by-side comparison of MoneyMutual with other commonly searched lending services, focusing on approval speed, credit requirements, transparency, and borrower experience.

    Traditional Banks and Credit Unions

    Most brick-and-mortar financial institutions prioritize high credit scores and long-standing banking history. If your FICO score is below 600, you’re likely to be denied a personal loan outright, regardless of your income or current financial stability.

    • Approval Time: Several days to weeks
    • Minimum Credit Score: Typically 650+
    • Requirements: Extensive documentation, sometimes collateral
    • Loan Terms: Rigid and less flexible for bad credit borrowers
    • Accessibility: Low for people with poor or no credit

    These institutions may offer low-interest rates, but they are largely inaccessible to individuals in financial transition or recovery.

    Payday and Title Loan Stores

    Payday lenders are often located in storefronts or operate online with offers that appear fast and hassle-free. However, these loans come with extremely short repayment timelines, high fees, and interest rates that can spiral into unmanageable debt.

    • Approval Time: Same day
    • Minimum Credit Score: Usually not required
    • Requirements: Proof of income and a post-dated check or bank access
    • Loan Terms: 2 to 4 weeks; full balance due immediately
    • Accessibility: Very high, but high risk

    Borrowers may receive money fast, but often fall into a cycle of rollover loans with ballooning costs.

    Peer-to-Peer Lending Platforms

    Newer digital platforms like peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplaces match borrowers with individual investors. These platforms offer moderate access for borrowers with fair credit but usually include higher rejection rates for those with bad or no credit history.

    • Approval Time: 1 to 5 days
    • Minimum Credit Score: Typically 600+
    • Requirements: Income verification, banking history
    • Loan Terms: Moderate flexibility
    • Accessibility: Moderate, limited for subprime credit

    P2P options are ideal for mid-tier borrowers but may not serve those facing urgent needs or low scores.

    How MoneyMutual Stands Apart

    MoneyMutual differentiates itself by prioritizing access, speed, and borrower safety—all while providing a no-pressure environment to explore options.

    • Approval Time: Offers may appear in minutes; funding often within 24 hours
    • Minimum Credit Score: Varies; many lenders accept bad or limited credit
    • Requirements: U.S. residency, 18+ years of age, minimum income (typically $800/month), active bank account
    • Loan Terms: Flexible repayment terms, including installment loan structures
    • Accessibility: High for borrowers with poor credit or limited credit history

    What makes MoneyMutual especially compelling is its marketplace model. Rather than acting as a lender, it gives you access to multiple providers, which improves your odds of approval and allows you to compare loan offers side by side, without harming your credit score just to explore your options.

    Disclaimer: MoneyMutual is not a direct lender and does not guarantee loan approval. Each lender establishes its own terms, credit evaluation process, and rate structure. Always confirm details with your selected lender before accepting any financial product.

    Summary

    Whether you’re navigating financial hardship or trying to rebuild after credit damage, most platforms either restrict your access or charge high fees for subpar loan terms. MoneyMutual stands out by offering a balance of accessibility, speed, and lender transparency, making it one of the best platforms for finding personal loans with low credit online.

    MoneyMutual makes it easy to apply for a personal loan—even with bad credit. No fees, no pressure, just fast matching with real lenders. Start now!

    Pricing Transparency, Refund Policy, and Contact Info

    When dealing with financial platforms—especially those offering access to personal loans with low credit—clear information about pricing, fees, and support channels is essential for building trust. MoneyMutual separates itself from many others in the space by offering a transparent and obligation-free experience for borrowers seeking emergency loans for bad credit online.

    This section outlines what users can expect regarding service fees, platform usage, lender charges, and how to get help if needed.

    Is MoneyMutual Really Free to Use?

    Yes, the MoneyMutual platform is entirely free for users. Borrowers pay no fees to:

    • Submit a loan request
    • Receive lender offers
    • Use the site or platform features

    There are no subscription costs, hidden charges, or application fees required to access the MoneyMutual network of lenders. This fee-free model makes it one of the most accessible tools available for individuals with poor credit searching for a legitimate loan provider online.

    Instead of charging consumers, MoneyMutual earns compensation from its network of lenders, which pay a referral fee when a connection results in a finalized loan agreement. This allows the company to offer a completely free service to borrowers while still maintaining operational support and security standards.

    Lender Fees and Loan Costs

    While MoneyMutual itself does not charge you, any lender you connect with through the platform may assess fees or interest charges depending on your selected loan. These may include:

    • Interest or APR (Annual Percentage Rate) — often based on credit risk
    • Origination or processing fees — occasionally deducted from the loan amount
    • Late payment penalties — charged for missed due dates
    • Optional service fees — sometimes offered with payment protection plans or customer service add-ons

    Disclaimer on pricing: Loan costs are set by the individual lenders, not MoneyMutual. Always read the loan agreement carefully before accepting. Final terms, including repayment amounts and due dates, must be verified directly with your lender. Pricing is subject to change at any time. Please consult the official MoneyMutual website or your lender for the most up-to-date details.

    Refunds or Loan Cancellations

    Because MoneyMutual is not a lender and does not issue or service loans directly, it does not offer a refund policy in the traditional sense. Any cancellations, term adjustments, or repayment disputes must be handled through the lender that issued the loan.

    However, if you feel you’ve received suspicious communications or need assistance in understanding the legitimacy of a lender within the MoneyMutual network, their support team may help guide you toward appropriate actions or refer you to the correct lender.

    If you suspect a loan agreement was made in error or under misleading conditions, it’s important to contact your lender immediately and document all communication.

    Note: MoneyMutual does not intervene in repayment negotiations. If you need assistance with loan modification or dispute resolution, consult your lender’s customer service department or a licensed financial advisor.

    How to Contact MoneyMutual

    For questions about the platform, your loan request status, or general support, MoneyMutual provides access to help through:

    • Official website contact form
    • Help center with frequently asked questions
    • Support resources for borrowers needing clarification on process steps

    If you’re unsure whether an email or phone call claiming to be from MoneyMutual is legitimate, you can verify communications through the contact options listed on the official website.

    At this time, MoneyMutual does not publish a direct phone line for borrower inquiries, and support is typically handled through secure web-based communication channels. For questions related to an active or finalized loan, you’ll need to reach out to the specific lender listed in your offer or agreement.

    Take control of your finances. Submit a free loan request on MoneyMutual today and explore trusted bad credit options—without risking your score!

    Final Thoughts – Should You Use MoneyMutual?

    For borrowers navigating financial uncertainty with a low credit score, access to reliable funding often feels out of reach. Traditional lenders impose high barriers, payday loan companies offer short-term fixes with long-term consequences, and many online platforms lack transparency. In contrast, MoneyMutual provides a structured, secure, and borrower-first approach to finding personal loans with low credit online.

    Why MoneyMutual Is a Smart Choice in 2025

    MoneyMutual offers more than just speed—it offers peace of mind. It’s a free, easy-to-use loan connection platform that helps individuals find emergency funds quickly without subjecting them to predatory terms or opaque fees.

    Key reasons borrowers continue to choose MoneyMutual include:

    • Fast application process that takes just minutes
    • No upfront fees to access loan options
    • Multiple loan offers from a network of vetted lenders
    • Soft credit inquiry only at the prequalification stage
    • Funding available as soon as the next business day
    • Clear visibility into loan terms, fees, and repayment timelines

    By focusing on borrower empowerment and financial inclusion, MoneyMutual addresses a critical market gap—helping people rebuild stability even when credit histories are imperfect.

    When MoneyMutual Might Be Right for You

    This platform is ideal for borrowers who:

    • Have a credit score below 600
    • Need $200 to $5,000 for an urgent or short-term need
    • Have a steady income but no access to credit cards or traditional loans
    • Are you looking for a loan provider that allows you to compare terms before committing
    • Want a process that is private, secure, and available online

    It’s also a good fit for people looking to avoid the pitfalls of payday loans, who value having repayment options spread out over time, and who want to avoid high-pressure tactics.

    Disclaimer: This article is not financial advice. Always consult with a licensed financial advisor before entering into any loan agreement. Terms and loan availability vary by lender, and final loan decisions rest entirely with the lending institution. Carefully review all documentation before signing.

    Ready to Take the Next Step?

    If you’ve been searching for the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online, MoneyMutual stands out in 2025 as a leading option. With its commitment to transparency, borrower safety, and fast access to real loan offers, it provides a path forward when other doors have closed.

    Take control of your financial future today.

    Start your free application at MoneyMutual.com

    Disclaimer on pricing: Always check the official website for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements. Pricing and conditions are subject to change at any time and may vary by lender.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is the best bad credit lending provider for personal loans with low credit online?

    MoneyMutual is widely considered one of the best platforms for connecting borrowers with personal loans for bad credit online. It offers a fast, secure, and free-to-use network that matches individuals with lenders willing to work with low credit scores. The platform allows borrowers to compare loan offers without hard credit inquiries and provides flexible repayment options.

    Can I get a personal loan online with a credit score under 600?

    Yes. Many of the lenders partnered with MoneyMutual specialize in installment loans for bad credit, even for individuals with scores below 600. These lenders often evaluate your income and banking history, not just your FICO score, making loan access more inclusive.

    Are personal loans for bad credit guaranteed through MoneyMutual?

    No legitimate lender can guarantee loan approval, and MoneyMutual does not make direct loans or promises of guaranteed funding. However, the platform significantly improves your chances by connecting you with a wide range of vetted lenders who offer emergency loans for bad credit and flexible underwriting.

    Disclaimer: Approval is based on individual lender criteria. Always read the loan agreement carefully before accepting.

    How fast can I get my money if I’m approved?

    In many cases, borrowers receive their funds within 24 hours after loan approval. Timing can vary depending on the lender’s process and your bank’s deposit policies, but MoneyMutual’s goal is to provide quick loans for bad credit with minimal delays.

    Is it safe to apply for a personal loan through MoneyMutual?

    Yes. MoneyMutual uses SSL encryption and privacy protections to secure your data during the loan request process. The platform does not sell your information and works only with licensed, reputable lenders.

    What types of loans can I get with bad credit?

    Through MoneyMutual’s lender network, borrowers can access:

    • Installment loans for bad credit
    • Emergency loans with fast approvals
    • Short-term personal loans for poor credit
    • Cash advance options for urgent expenses

    Loan amounts typically range from $200 to $5,000, depending on your income and lender policies.

    Does applying through MoneyMutual affect my credit score?

    Submitting your information through MoneyMutual does not trigger a hard credit check. Initial matching is done with soft inquiries only. If you proceed with a lender’s offer, that lender may run a hard credit pull during final approval.

    What are the minimum requirements to apply?

    To qualify for a loan through MoneyMutual, you generally must:

    • Be at least 18 years old
    • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
    • Have a steady income (often $800/month minimum)
    • Maintain an active checking account

    These requirements make MoneyMutual a strong option for borrowers with limited or poor credit history.

    What interest rates should I expect with a bad credit loan?

    Interest rates vary by lender and borrower profile. APRs typically range from 5.99% to 35.99%, depending on creditworthiness, income, and loan term. Always compare offers carefully and ensure you understand the total repayment cost before committing.

    Disclaimer on pricing: Always verify current terms and fees directly with your selected lender. Rates and pricing are subject to change. Refer to the official MoneyMutual website for the latest information.

    Can I repay the loan early without penalties?

    Most lenders in the MoneyMutual network allow early repayment with no prepayment penalties, but this varies by provider. Read your loan agreement carefully or contact the lender directly to confirm.

    Financial emergency? Get connected to lenders fast with MoneyMutual—no hidden fees, no hard credit pull, and funds as fast as 24 hours. Apply now!

    • Company: MoneyMutual
    • Address: 2510 E. Sunset Rd. Ste 6, #85 Las Vegas NV, 89120
    • Email: customerservice@moneymutual.com
    • Phone Support: 844-276-2063

    Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

    The information contained in this article is provided strictly for general informational and educational purposes and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information presented at the time of publication, no warranty or representation is made regarding the completeness, reliability, suitability, or accuracy of the content. The publisher, content creators, syndication partners, distribution platforms, and any affiliated parties expressly disclaim all liability for any errors, omissions, outdated information, inaccuracies, or misunderstandings that may arise from reliance on this content. Readers are solely responsible for verifying any and all details directly with the official source or provider before making financial decisions.

    All product descriptions, loan terms, eligibility criteria, rates, fees, and other specifications mentioned in this content are subject to change at any time without notice. Final loan terms, availability, interest rates, fees, and approval decisions are solely determined by the individual lender, not the publisher, platform, or any associated parties. The publisher and syndication partners do not issue loans, broker loans, or act as financial institutions or lending intermediaries.

    The operator of this website is not a lender, does not arrange, facilitate, or broker loans to lenders, and does not make short-term cash loans or credit decisions. It is not an agent, representative, arranger, facilitator, or broker of any lender and does not endorse any lender or charge consumers for any service or product. This website does not constitute an offer or solicitation to lend. This website allows consumers to submit information to a lender in order for a lender to determine if they may be able to offer a short-term loan. However, providing information on this website does not guarantee that a lender will be able to work with the consumer or that a consumer will be approved for a loan.

    Cash advances should only be used to address immediate short-term financial needs and are not intended as a long-term financial solution. Not all lenders can provide up to $5,000. Cash transfer times may vary between lenders and may depend on individual financial institutions. For specific details, questions, or concerns regarding a short-term cash loan, consumers must contact their lender directly. Lender services may not be available to residents of all states based on individual lender requirements. This service is not available in Connecticut. Furthermore, this service is not available in New York or to New York borrowers due to interest rate limits under New York law.

    Some lenders may obtain credit checks, consumer credit reports, or other personal data from credit reporting agencies such as Experian, Equifax, TransUnion, or alternative providers.

    Any mention of specific loan amounts, approval timelines, interest rates, or lender features is provided for illustrative purposes only and does not represent an endorsement, guarantee, or contractual offer. The publisher and syndication partners are not responsible for any agreements, contracts, disputes, or financial outcomes between consumers and any lender referenced in this content.

    The publisher, content creators, syndication partners, and all affiliated parties disclaim any liability for financial loss, reputational harm, damages, claims, or disputes arising from actions taken based on the information presented herein. Readers are strongly encouraged to perform independent research and consult with a licensed financial advisor, attorney, or other qualified professional before making financial decisions or entering into any loan agreement.

    This content may include affiliate links. If a reader clicks on an affiliate link and completes a qualifying action—such as submitting a loan request or securing a loan—one or more parties involved in the creation, publication, or distribution of this content may receive financial compensation from the financial service provider. This compensation does not increase the cost to the consumer and does not influence the editorial integrity or objectivity of the content.

    Inclusion or syndication of this article on any third-party website, platform, or media outlet does not constitute an endorsement by the publisher, syndication partners, or any affiliated party of the services or financial products referenced herein.

    Readers are advised to refer to the official website of any financial provider for the most up-to-date and complete product information, disclosures, loan terms, eligibility requirements, rates, fees, and customer service contact details prior to making any financial decisions.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: MAGA Minute, May 9, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    WINNING WEEK!!!

    ’27 NFL Draft
    PM Carney
    Military Moms
    UK Trade
    Gilead, Invenergy, Merck, LEGO, Hotpack, BMS invest
    Alcatraz
    Self-deport
    Yemen ceasefire
    NIH beagle tests ended
    Gulf of America
    Middle East next week

    Watch Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s MAGA Minute!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvaUihfho04

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Markey Hosts Virtual Discussion with Small Business Owners on the Impacts of Trump’s Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (May 8, 2025) – Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today held a virtual listening session with small business owners in Massachusetts and small business owners who serve the Commonwealth on the devastating impacts the Trump Tariffs are having on them.
    “Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, but to small business owners, Trump’s Tariffs are back breaking. Trump’s Tariffs have cost small businesses more than $9,000 every second since he announced his chaotic, reckless policy. This administration is only working to protect the interest of big businesses, telling small businesses to ‘wait it out.’ This is unacceptable. Small businesses live day to day, week to week, or even month to month. They cannot afford to wait and see what happens in Washington – their livelihoods and communities depend on their ability to operate. That is why I introduced the Small Business Liberation Act. This bill would provide small businesses with the relief they need. This should not be a partisan issue, and I will continue to fight to pass this legislation,” said Ranking Member Markey.
    “I operate a USA based manufacturing business where our raw materials – green coffee – literally cannot be produced in the US, yet we are still subject to tariffs. These additional taxes (which is effectively what they are) are sending shockwaves through an industry that was already facing record high prices. We have no other choice but to raise our prices and pass some of these costs to our consumers.  But of course there is a ceiling to what people can and will pay for coffee, so we risk alienating our customer base, driving them back to the bigger businesses, like Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts, and contributing to continued inflationary economy.  The choices are terrible,” said Shayna Ferullo, Owner of Snowy Owl Coffee Roasters.
    “These aren’t luxury items for us. They’re the foundation of what we do — and when prices double, so do the barriers to growth, opportunity, and community impact. When costs go up and margins shrink, it’s not just our business that feels it — it’s the people we’re training, the clients we serve, and the communities we’re trying to uplift. Before policies are passed, we’re simply asking for a seat at the table — because decisions made at the top are felt most by businesses at the street level,” said Steeve Louis-Charles, Co-founder of Boston Pro Sound.
    “I will run out of inventory in less than 2-3 months.  I can no longer afford to bring my products into the USA.  If I can’t figure something out quickly, I will have to shut down my business.  I will no longer have revenue to pay my employees, bills, vendors, and loans.  I will lose my home.  Small, American-owned businesses need immediate relief from tariffs,” said Beth Benike, Founder of Busy Baby.
    “My lease needs to be renewed and given the uncertainty around the new tariffs, I don’t know if I can afford to stay open unless I shift to an entirely new financial model. In less than two weeks we will have to make a decision on the future of our company that could lock at least 100 people back into a cycle of generational poverty,” said Brandale Randolph, Founder of 1854 Cycling Company.
    “As a small, fourth-generation, family-owned business founded on the ‘American Dream,’ we fully support bringing businesses back to the United States. However, handcuffing us with increased costs and decreased availability on products that are necessary for our success, is making us less competitive, not more competitive,” said Zack Rocheleau, Supply Chain Manager, Rocheleau Tool & Die.
    “Today, Main Street Alliance members Beth Benike of Busy Baby, Jen Faigel of the Commonwealth Kitchen, and Shayna Ferullo of Snowy Owl shared their personal stories with Sen. Markey about the impact of the Trump Tariffs. Without small business relief, shelves are going to go empty and entrepreneurs will go bankrupt. That’s why MSA strongly supports Sen. Markey’s ‘Small Business Liberation Act’ and urges members of the US Senate to co-sponsor this essential legislation,” said Shawn Phetteplace, National Campaigns Director, Main Street Alliance.
    “The Black Economic Council of Massachusetts (BECMA) is incredibly grateful to Senator Markey and his team for hosting a listening session that explored the impact federal trade policies are having on small businesses. Brandale Randolph of 1854 Cycling and Steeve Louis-Charles of Boston Professional Sound Inc., BECMA members, were able to share how detrimental tariffs and the subsequent supply chain challenges already have been to their businesses. Small business is the backbone of the Massachusetts economy, and we will continue to advocate for policies that will positively impact small business growth and sustainability,” said Nicole Obi, President & CEO of BECMA.
    “The tariffs are a nightmare for our small business community, including the farms, food trucks, caterers, product companies, and restaurants we represent and work with. Small businesses, unlike large businesses, don’t have teams of lobbyists nor safety nets underneath us. We are already seeing a domino effect on an awful lot of people that will be hurt: when our businesses go down, the insurance brokers go down, the drivers go down, the distributors go down, and the marketing teams go down,” said Jen Faigel, co-founder and Executive Director of CommonWealth Kitchen. 
    This week, Ranking Member Markey, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) introduced the Small Business Liberation Act, legislation that would exempt small businesses from the broad, global tariffs imposed as a result of the national emergency declared on April 2, 2025, by President Trump. The Small Business Liberation Act gives the more than 34 million U.S. small businesses needed relief from the overly broad, reckless Trump Tariffs that are wreaking havoc on their businesses.
    Ranking Member Markey recently wrote to Small Business Administrator Loeffler, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, calling on the Trump administration to exempt U.S. small businesses from the reckless Trump Tariffs, and afford them the same relief that the administration is giving billion-dollar tech giants such as Apple and Google.
    Previously, Ranking Member Markey, along with Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and all Democrats on the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee wrote to Administrator Loeffler, urging her to take immediate action to address the impacts of Trump’s reckless tariff policies on small businesses.
    In April 2025, Ranking Member Markey released a report, “The Trump Tariffs: A Small Business Crisis,” which details the disastrous impacts of Trump’s tariff policies on small businesses across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: During National Small Business Week, Ranking Member Markey Convenes Field Hearing, Releases Report Detailing Trump Assault on Small Businesses and the Clean Energy Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    REPORT: Pulling the Plug: How Trump’s Attacks on Clean Energy Could Turn out the Lights for Small Business
    Boston (May 9, 2025) – During National Small Business Week, Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today led a field hearing in Boston with Massachusetts clean energy leaders to examine the role that small businesses play in the clean energy economy, the importance of continuing federal investments that support the clean energy transition, and the impacts of tariffs from Trump’s chaotic trade war on small businesses.
    Ranking Member Markey also released a report titled “Pulling the Plug: How Trump’s Attacks on Clean Energy Could Turn out the Lights for Small Business,” which details how federal investments support clean energy small businesses, and how the Trump administration’s efforts to roll back federal clean energy investments, especially those created and expanded by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), will devastate small businesses in the clean energy economy.
    “Clean energy is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States, and Massachusetts is leading the way,” said Ranking Member Markey. “In our state, the clean energy economy supports more than 100,000 direct jobs. Our clean energy transition isn’t just about mitigating the devastating impacts of the climate crisis—it is about building an economy with accessible, good-paying jobs, and it is about centering justice. I convened today’s field hearing with Massachusetts clean energy leaders and released my report because our path to a just, livable future for all runs through small businesses.”
    Key findings from Ranking Member Markey’s report include:
    Small businesses account for a significant portion of clean energy jobs in the United States, with 75 percent of energy efficiency workers employed by companies with 20 or fewer employees. 
    In Massachusetts, there are more than 100,000 direct clean energy jobs. More than half of the 7,300 clean energy businesses in the Commonwealth are small firms with 10 or fewer employees; more than 80 percent have fewer than 50 employees.
    The Trump administration is undercutting programs critical for small businesses, including freezing Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding, and reinstating caps on Small Business Administration (SBA) 504 Loans which finance improvements that reduce small business energy costs.
    The April 2025 Trump Tariffs limit deployment of clean energy, including solar, driving up costs for small- and mid-sized installers and making it harder for them to compete.
    Thousands of rural businesses completed clean energy projects expecting reimbursement through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) program, only to have their funding withheld.
    Firms surveyed in 2024 reported concerns they would lose business or be forced to close as a direct result of an IRA repeal.
    Repealing federal clean energy tax credits and funding could threaten or eliminate thousands of jobs and could cost the U.S. $160 billion in lost GDP.
    The Massachusetts clean energy leaders who joined Ranking Member Markey at today’s field hearing emphasized the importance of investing in small businesses and growing the clean energy economy.
    “With over 115,000 workers driving the growth of our clean energy sector, Massachusetts is proving that clean energy and economic growth go hand-in-hand. Small businesses are at the heart of this transformation—creating jobs, improving lives, and building a cleaner, more secure future,” said Dr. Emily Reichert, CEO of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. “By investing in small businesses and workforce development, we can ensure that Massachusetts remains a leader in climate innovation and continues to offer meaningful opportunities for all of our residents.”
    “We are already witnessing significant solar project delays and cancelations as a result of the uncertainty brought on by talk of tariffs and the possible repeal of tax credits,” said Nick d’Arbeloff, President of the Solar Energy Business Association of New England (SEBANE). “If the [Investment Tax Credit] is, in fact, eliminated and the tariffs move ahead as planned, more than a few of our small business member companies have indicated they will be forced to significantly reduce their workforce or close their doors entirely.”
    “Franklin Cummings Tech prepares graduates for well-paying, in-demand jobs by aligning the skills we teach with the immediate needs of the job market and society. The Center for Energy Efficiency and the Trades (CEET) is a perfect example of this model in action, bringing a focus on sustainability and renewable energy across the college’s technical programs. Our efforts received a tremendous boost when Senator Markey and Senator Warren facilitated the $800,000 grant to Franklin Cummings Tech through the Department of Labor, bringing greater resources and structure to the CEET program,” said Dr. Aisha Francis, President and CEO of Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology.
    “Small businesses are the backbone of America’s clean energy transformation. For small businesses nationwide, consistent policy support is essential; without it, we risk stalling the remarkable progress we’ve made in building America’s clean energy future. At SparkCharge, we see firsthand how federal initiatives empower innovation, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth. Clear policies and stable federal support ensure that American small businesses can lead the world in clean energy solutions, strengthening both our local communities here in Massachusetts and the broader economy across the United States,” said Josh Aviv, Founder and CEO of SparkCharge.
    During National Small Business Week, Ranking Member Markey, along with members of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship and Senate Democrats participated in several media opportunities to highlight the urgency of supporting U.S. small business owners and entrepreneurs in the face of Trump’s reckless tariff policies and continued chaos and cuts at the SBA.
    Yesterday, Ranking Member Markey held a virtual listening session with small business owners in Massachusetts and owners who serve the Commonwealth on the devastating impacts of the Trump Tariffs.
    Earlier this week, Ranking Member Markey, alongside Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) introduced the Small Business Liberation Act, legislation that would exempt the more than 34 million U.S. small businesses from the reckless Trump Tariffs that are wreaking havoc on their businesses and the U.S. economy.
    Ranking Member Markey recently wrote to Small Business Administrator Loeffler, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, calling on the Trump administration to exempt U.S. small businesses from the reckless Trump Tariffs and afford them the same relief that the administration is giving billion-dollar tech giants such as Apple and Google.
    Previously, Ranking Member Markey, along with Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and all Democrats on the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee wrote to Administrator Loeffler, urging her to take immediate action to address the impacts of Trump’s reckless tariff policies on small businesses.
    Ranking Member Markey has been speaking out against Trump attacks to federal clean energy and climate funding and programs during Trump’s first 100 days in office. In February 2025, Ranking Member Markey was denied a meeting with EPA Administrator Zeldin and DOGE representatives, where the lawmakers planned to ask why funding to critical EPA programs was unconstitutionally cut off to communities. In March 2025, Ranking Member Markey and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) led a letter to Administrator Lee Zeldin to cease its attempts to claw back nearly $20 billion in congressionally appropriated and legally obligated funding. In April 2025, Ranking Member Markey released a report, “The Trump Tariffs: A Small Business Crisis,” which details the disastrous impacts of Trump’s tariff policies on small businesses across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan Applauds DOT Air Traffic Safety Overhaul with Critical Upgrades & 174 New Weather Stations for Alaska

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    05.09.25
    ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—U.S. Senator Sullivan (R-Alaska) today celebrated the announcement from the Department of Transportation (DOT) of a new effort to build a state-of-the-art air traffic control system to enhance safety in the sky, reduce delays, and provide air traffic controllers with modern, reliable equipment. This overhaul includes several Alaska-specific provisions, including the addition of 174 new weather stations for the state and a modernization of flight service systems. These upgrades follow Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy’s commitment to Sen. Sullivan to strongly support Alaska aviation safety, especially as Alaska faces an aviation accident rate 2.35 times higher than the national average.
    Sen. Sullivan spoke about this historic announcement today on Fox News Channel’s “America Reports.”
    “We need to keep our aviation system the safest in the world, but it is creaking and falling apart. No state is more aware of this challenge than Alaska, with dozens of communities off the road system and wholly reliant on aviation, and an air traffic control system responsible for the heavily-trafficked aviation routes between North America and Asia,” said Sen. Sullivan. “President Trump and Secretary Duffy have shown tremendous leadership, outlining bold, top-to-bottom reforms to our air traffic control system and marshalling the support of all stakeholders—the unions of our FAA and ATC employees, industry, and lawmakers. Importantly, the President and the Secretary announced their support for 174 new weather stations just for Alaska, which could be transformative for aviation safety in our great state. I’ll continue working closely with Secretary Duffy and my colleagues on securing the necessary funding for achieving this much-needed overhaul and prioritizing the unique needs of Alaska.”

    Click here or the image above to watch Sen. Sullivan’s interview.
    Below is a summary of DOT’s intended upgrades for air traffic control and safety infrastructure in Alaska and across the United States:
    Replacing antiquated telecommunications with new fiber, wireless and satellite technologies at over 4,600 sites, 25,000 new radios and 475 new voice switches. 
    Replacing 618 radars which have gone past their life cycle. 
    Addressing runway safety by increasing the number of airports with Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI) to 200. 
    Building six new air traffic control centers for the first time since the 1960s and replacing towers and TRACONs. 
    Installing new modern hardware and software for all air traffic facilities to create a common platform system throughout towers, TRACONs and centers.    
    Addressing the unique challenges that face Alaska by adding 174 new weather stations. 
    Below is a timeline of Sen. Sullivan’s recent work on aviation safety in Alaska and across the country:
    On April 9, 2025, The FAA announced a $25 million investment in Alaska aviation safety, a result of a Sullivan provision in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 authorizing $25 million annually for FAA Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative (FAASI) from FY 2025 through 2028. The FAA also announced it will be expanding the FAA’s use of satellites in Alaska—growing from four testing sites to 16—to help support connectivity at weather monitoring sites, particularly in the more remote parts of the state. Alaska has long had issues with reliable weather information for the aviation community. The 2024 reauthorization, of which Senator Sullivan was an author, required the FAA to fix telecommunications connections to address those needs.
    On February 11, 2025, Sen. Sullivan led a press conference with Senator Lisa Murkowski and Representative Nick Begich (both R-Alaska), Secretary Duffy, and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy regarding their shared focus on enhancing aviation safety in Alaska.
    On January 15, 2025, Sen. Sullivan received commitments from former Representative Sean Duffy (R-Wisc.), President Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of Transportation, regarding transportation challenges in Alaska and the vital need to expand critical infrastructure. Specifically, Sen. Sullivan received commitments from Duffy to visit Alaska, continue to fund the Essential Air Service Program, support the FAASI, and work toward much-needed permitting reform.
    On May 9, 2024, the Senate passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 with numerous Sullivan-authored provisions related to aviation safety in Alaska, including support for the FAASI and a requirement for FAA to improve maintenance of weather equipment. The bill was signed into law on May 16, 2024.
    In September of 2021, the FAA established the FAASI, an FAA effort to respond to the February 2020 NTSB Report and the Alaska Aviation Safety Summit. The FAASI identifies safety improvements and investments for the Alaska Region, and aims to make progress on the effort for FAA and DOT to take a holistic view of DOT programs to ensure that inherent bias no longer inhibits infrastructure investments in remote Alaska Native communities.
    On October 8, 2020, Sen. Sullivan worked with previous FAA Administrator Dickson to host the Alaska Safety Summit, which was focused solely on Alaska aviation issues. The Senator pressed the administration to take a holistic view to solve the problems presented in Alaska.
    The Senate passed the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act, including multiple Sullivan-authored provisions focused on Alaska aviation safety, including enabling the acquisition of new weather reporting and navigation infrastructure.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects three sea smuggling cases with goods worth about $120 million seized (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Hong Kong Customs on April 30 and May 1 detected three sea smuggling cases involving ocean-going vessels. A large batch of suspected smuggled electronic goods and parts with a total estimated market value of about $120 million was seized.

    Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs on April 30 and May 1 identified two ocean-going vessels preparing to depart from Hong Kong for Pakistan and Thailand respectively at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals for inspection. A large batch of suspected smuggled electronic goods and parts, including central processing units, computer desktops, servers, hard disks and computer accessories, was seized inside five containers.

    An investigation is ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

    Customs is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for tackling smuggling activities and has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to crack down on related crimes.

    Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

    Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – Global Barometers indicate a slowdown in world economy – KOF

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    The Coincident and Leading Barometers decrease for the third consecutive month. This time more markedly, reflecting rising uncertainty due to escalating trade tensions and the prospect of slower growth in several regions.

    In May, the Global Economic Coincident Barometer decreases by 3.6 points to 92.2 points, the lowest level since February 2023, when it recorded 89.0 points. The Leading Barometer, in turn, drops by 3.9 points to 95.9 points. The falls are mainly driven by the Asia, Pacific & Africa and Western Hemisphere regions.

    “Given the geopolitical tensions, it is probably not really surprising that both global barometers show a further decline this month. While it has been most pronounced in the Americas and Asia, led by the US and China, Europe has not been entirely immune. Here, hopes are pinned on the new German government to revive the German, and hence the European, economy and thus counteract the negative impact of trade tensions” comments KOF Director Jan-Egbert Sturm on the latest results of the Global Economic Barometers.

    Coincident Barometer – regions and sectors

    The 3.6-point decrease in the Coincident Barometer in May is primarily due to the negative contribution of 1.9 points from the Asia, Pacific & Africa region and 1.5 points from the Western Hemisphere. Europe contributes slightly, with -0.2 points, to the decrease in the aggregated indicator. This is the third consecutive decrease in the Western Hemisphere indicator, which accumulates losses of over 15 points during the period and reaches 87.2 points, the lowest level since June 2023 (86.8 pts.). The region shows the lowest level among the regional coincident indicators.

    All coincident sectoral indicators decrease in May, with the most noticeable declines in Industry and the Economy indicator (which is based on variables representing overall business and consumer evaluations). The Services sector continues to record the lowest level among the sectors.

    Leading Barometer – regions and sectors

    The regional contributions to the decrease in the Global Leading Barometer in May follow the same pattern observed in the Coincident indicator: the strongest contribution, of -2.6 points, comes from the Asia, Pacific & Africa region, followed by the Western Hemisphere, with -1.2 points. Europe contributes with -0.1 points to the aggregated result. The Western Hemisphere Leading Indicator diverges from the other regions and continues to record the lowest level among them. The Leading Global Barometer leads the world economic growth rate cycle by three to six months on average.

    Among the leading sectoral indicators, only the Services indicator rises slightly this month. The most marked decreases are seen in the Economy (which is based on variables representing overall business and consumer evaluations), Trade, and Industry indicators. As a result, the Trade indicator falls into the 80-point range, reaching its lowest level since October 2023 (87.5 pts.). The Economy indicator also returns to its lowest level since 2023.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Trade Minister travels to UK & Korea for trade talks

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Trade and Investment, and Agriculture Minister, Todd McClay travels to the United Kingdom today to participate in the first in-person joint NZ UK Ministerial Trade Committee and to mark the two-year anniversary of the entry into force of the New Zealand United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (FTA). 

    “Better access to overseas markets is an important part of the Government’s economic plan to grow the economy and create better paying jobs, Minister McClay says. 

    The NZ-UK FTA has seen a 21 per cent boost in Kiwi exports worth an additional $644.4 million over the two years since the deal came into force. This is delivering real benefits for Kiwi exporters.

    “The results speak for themselves —goods exports to the UK have risen by 20 per cent, and services exports are up over 22 per cent in just two years, Mr McClay says. 

    “And the primary sector is leading the way with big increases in food and fibre exports along with travel and tech.   

    • Meat exports are up 46% to nearly $500 million
    • Dairy exports are up a staggering 139% worth $198 million
    • Fruit and nuts are up 52% worth $54 million
    • Travel service exports are up 22% to nearly $1 billion
    • Tech-related services exports are up 50% to $221 million 

    While in the UK, Minister McClay will meet with his trade and agriculture counterparts, the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, as well as the UK Trade Envoy to New Zealand, Carolyn Harris.

    He will also engage with key partners and stakeholders, including Waitrose and the National Farmers Union, visit local farms, and connect with New Zealand businesses operating in London.

    The UK is New Zealand’s 7th largest trading partner, with two-way trade worth $7.27 billion. In 2024, New Zealand exported $3.69 billion in goods and services to the UK

    Minister McClay will then travel from the UK to Korea on Tuesday of next week to participate in the APEC Trade Ministers meeting where he will hold bilateral meetings with APEC and CPTPP trading partners.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Three in the Central District of Illinois

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    “Protecting our children from those who seek to exploit them and inflict harm is a top priority for our office,” said Acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois Gregory M. Gilmore. “We are grateful to our federal and local law enforcement partners whose dedicated work has made our community that much safer.”

    “There will be zero tolerance for those who commit crimes against our children,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “There will never be a lead we do not follow or door we do not knock on. We will not stand by – we will stand together. This operation shows that with every partner at the table, from law enforcement to community advocates, we are united in one mission, to protect our children.”


    The cases charged in the Central District of Illinois include the following:

    Mark Peterson, 41, of Pekin, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 25, 2025, with attempted enticement of a minor. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Peterson on May 6, 2025.

    According to the complaint affidavit, Peterson communicated via an internet-based social media platform with an individual whom he believed had access to a ten-year-old female, expressing multiple times that he wanted to engage in sexual activity with the child. Per the affidavit, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, Peterson drove to a location in Peoria to meet the child for the purpose of having sexual relations. Federal law enforcement agents arrested him upon his arrival.

    If convicted of attempted enticement of a minor, Peterson faces a minimum sentence of ten years to life imprisonment.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long ordered Peterson detained on April 29, 2025, and he remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa P. Ortiz is representing the government in the prosecution.

    Dalton Trader, 27, of Williamsville, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 29, 2025, with possession of child pornography.

    According to the complaint affidavit, law enforcement agents discovered multiple child pornography videos, including a video of a prepubescent minor, on Trader’s computer pursuant to a search warrant.

    If convicted of possession of child pornography, Trader faces a sentence of up to twenty years of imprisonment.

    Trader is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending a detention hearing that is set for May 8, 2025.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, with assistance from the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Williamsville Police Department, Illinois State Police, Springfield Police Department, the Illinois Secretary of State Police, the Sherman Police Department, and Sangamon County Animal Control. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs is representing the government in the prosecution.

    James Yeager, 51, of Springfield, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 29, 2025, with possession of child pornography.

    According to the complaint affidavit, law enforcement agents discovered multiple child pornography images, including photographs of prepubescent minors, on a micro-SD drive at Yeager’s residence, following the execution of a search warrant.

    U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless ordered Yeager detained on May 6, 2025, and he remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office; the Decatur Police Department; the Springfield Police Department; the Illinois State Police; the Illinois Attorney General’s Office Investigation Division, and the Illinois Secretary of State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs is representing the government in the prosecution.

    If convicted of possession of child pornography, Yeager faces a minimum sentence of ten years and maximum sentence of twenty years of imprisonment.


    The following agencies provided further assistance during Operation Restore Justice: the Charleston Police Department; the Bradley Police Department; the Manteno Police Department; the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Police Department; and the Eastern-Central Illinois Task Force.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

    A complaint or indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Applauds UK Trade Deal, Encourages Action on DSTs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Rep. Estes Applauds UK Trade Deal, Encourages Action on DSTs

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued a statement today following yesterday’s announcement of a trade agreement with the UK.
     
    “Greater free and fair trade with the UK benefits Kansas farmers, ranchers, manufacturers and workers,” said Rep. Estes. “President Trump’s agreement with our ally across the Atlantic is a positive step forward in leveling the playing field and expanding markets for American producers. The next step is to address the egregious digital services taxes that target American ingenuity and that should be ended immediately.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nigeria Unlocks Intra-African Trade with New Pan-African Payment & Settlement System (PAPSS) Policy Boost

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAIRO, Egypt, May 9, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Pan-African Payment & Settlement System (PAPSS) warmly welcomes the new circular from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), announcing a significant streamlining of documentation requirements for PAPSS transactions in Nigeria.

    This progressive policy, announced on 28 April 2025, sets the stage for faster, more cost-effective, and more inclusive participation by Nigerians and Nigerian businesses, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), involved in intra-African commerce under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    With the new announcement, individuals and businesses in Nigeria will now be able to make PAPSS transactions efficiently; with less delays occasioned by paperwork. Only basic KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) documents are required for clearance of payments under US$2,000 (for individuals) and US$5,000 (for corporates) per month. This makes it easier for Nigerian SMEs to trade across Africa under the AfCFTA, with fewer heavy documentation barriers than ever before.

    The announcement also empowers commercial banks to source foreign exchange for PAPSS through Nigeria’s Foreign Exchange market.

    As PAPSS continues to expand across Africa — with 16 countries, 14 payment switches, and more than 150 commercial banks now connected, including 22 banks in Nigeria — the streamlined requirements will eliminate barriers and encourage broader use of our secure, instant, local currency-based platform.

    Mike Ogbalu III, CEO of PAPSS, commented: “Today marks a transformational milestone for Nigerian commerce and for the larger vision of African economic integration. We are grateful to the Central Bank of Nigeria for its unwavering support and vision in propelling Nigeria towards seamless intra-African payments under the AfCFTA.

    “This bold policy move by the CBN will empower banks, businesses, and entrepreneurs to connect, trade, and pay more easily than ever before. The directive removes excess paperwork from a large number of transfers, empowering Nigerian businesses to participate more freely in the African Continental Free Trade Area by utilising our secure, local currency-based platform.

    “We also expect Nigerian banks to begin integrating PAPSS into their digital platforms such as mobile apps and online banking in the near future, promoting even wider adoption.

    “PAPSS is at the forefront of the African advancement towards a truly borderless African economy and achieving the ultimate goal of economic self-determination. We encourage all stakeholders across the continent to follow in Nigeria’s footsteps, embrace PAPSS, and become part of the transformation that will define the way Africa does payments and accelerate the realisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area goals.”

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phillips 66 Provides Statement of Critical Facts

    Source: Phillips

    Provides Clarity on Important Topics where Elliott Has Sought to Mislead Investors
    Reiterates Strength of Company’s Transformative Strategy and the Valuable Skills of Phillips 66’s Board and Nominees in Contrast to Elliott’s Risky, Misleading Analysis and Conflicted Nominees
    Phillips 66 Urges Shareholders to Vote “FOR” ONLY Phillips 66’s Nominees on the WHITE Proxy Card

    HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) today provided investors with important information to make fully informed voting decisions at the Phillips 66 Annual Meeting on May 21, 2025. This overview is intended to ensure investors understand the facts on these critical topics as they assess how to cast their upcoming vote.
    Reliable, Long-Term Value Creation
    Since Mark Lashier became President & CEO, Phillips 66 outperformed against relevant benchmarks,delivering total shareholder returns of 67%(compared to the S&P 500 Energy at 45%, and our Synthetic Proxy Peer Median1 at 42%).2
    In under 3 years, the Companyreturned over$14 billion to shareholdersthrough share repurchases and dividends. We grew our dividend at a 15% CAGR since the spinoff3in 2012, and our annual dividend paidincreased every year.
    While the Board recognizes the reliable returns we have provided for our shareholders,we are never satisfied and continuously review our portfolio with a sharp focus on long-term value creation.
    Investors and analysts recognize the long-term potential inherent in the execution of our transformational strategy, which is in its early innings:
    “PSX remains a Large Cap refining top pick. PSX’s management team is focused on delivering growth at attractive returns, and further diversification and improvements to refining uptime might combine to restore PSX’s premium positioning. We are Overweight rated.” (Wells Fargo (4/25/2025))4
    Effective Board Governance
    Elliott helped to select Bob Pease and he has proven to be a constructive challenger in the boardroom. As Bob has directly stated, he supports the Board because it is actively working to get to the right answer, not protecting any individual’s interests.
    The Phillips 66 Board has demonstrated an ability to consistently refresh the boardroom. To ensure fresh and independent viewpoints, we have added five new independent directors in the past four years and two new nominees stand for election at this year’s Annual Meeting.
    Our directors and nominees have unparallelled experience taking decisive and transformative action when it makes sense, and together they have overseen more than $300 B in breakup or major divestiture transactions.
    “[Mark Lashier] stressed that the board has taken a look at strategic options in the past and continues to do so regularly. As such, questions surrounding the makeup of the portfolio have been asked inside the boardroom. And answered. He also added there are plenty of folks in the boardroom who have been involved in spinoffs elsewhere and they’d be the kind of people who’d be raising their hand if they thought this one made sense. Lastly, he pointed out that “incredible dis-synergies” and “massive tax burdens” would come from midstream monetization. In today’s deck, PSX claims these costs could amount to $28/share.”(Gordon Haskett (4/28/2025))4
    Elliott’s Flawed Thesis to Separate Midstream and Sell CPChem
    The Board has absolutely evaluated a breakup of Midstream and sale of CPChem, and following meaningful consideration, came to the conclusion that neither action is in the best interest of long-term shareholders at this time.
    Simply put, Elliott’s analysis is based on speculative analysis and flawed assumptions:
    Elliott’s $50 billion Midstream analysis ignores or significantly underestimates tax leakage, dis-synergies, buying power of potential buyers, among other factors that would destroy value uplift in a sale and/or spin scenario.
    Elliott’s valuation of CPChem has appreciated by 50% to $15 billion since 2023, while Chemical peers have traded down 19%5during the same time frame.
    We have carefully evaluated and disclosed important details around Elliott’s flawed analysis in our recent investor presentation, which outlines the facts around the costs and risks of a CPChem sale or Midstream spin and the long-term value of the integrated business.

    We know the market recognizes Elliott’s analysis is based on speculative valuations and flawed assumptions:
    “Sale of companies may not work as: 1) buyers for these large assets are limited, 2) tax leakage could be high, 3) standalone Refining multiple may suffer (PSX is trading at a premium to MPC on standalone Refining).” (Citi (3/14/2025))4
    “We believe selling CPChem ahead of two large projects coming online and close to the bottom of the margin cycle may not be the right idea.” (Citi (2/13/2025)) 4
    Refining Performance
    Refining performance has been improving meaningfully, and we remain committed to continuously increasing margins in our Refining business.
    As a result of optimizing our integrated value chain and cost reduction efforts, our R&M EBITDA outperforms our core peer group by $2.80 per barrel6in the Central Corridor and is in-line globally.
    Between 2022 and 2024, Phillips 66 reduced refining adjusted controllable costs by $1.08 per barrel7, a 15% improvement and 44% above our original $0.75 per barrel target. These results surpassed both Marathon and Valero’s respective cost improvements over the same period.7
    By 2027, we aim to further reduce refining adjusted controllable costs from $5.90 to $5.50 per barrel.8We expect that every $0.50 per barrel of cost reduction will improve adjusted EBITDA by roughly $315 million.9
    We know the market sees the progress we are making:
    “[We] recently analyzed PSX refining EBITDA per barrel on a like-for-like basis with peers, adjusting for Marketing, Midstream, and turnaround accounting. We found that PSX performs in-line with peers based on our analysis … This is better than the consensus view that PSX refining earnings lags peers.” (TD Cowen (4/27/2025)) 4
    “Management highlighted the completion of its large turnaround program, which should support improved refining earnings through the remainder of the year. We note the company remains focused on improving operational execution and yields across its refining footprint though accretive capital investments.” (Goldman Sachs (5/1/2025)) 4
    The Risk of Elliott’s Nominees
    Elliott’s nominees, who have histories of value destruction, pose a risk to shareholders’ investments and have redundant experience relative to our more qualified nominees.
    Sigmund Cornelius and Brian Coffman both hold concerning and poorly disclosed ties to Elliott and Gregory Goff (CEO of Amber Energy, an Elliott portfolio company, who is pursuing an acquisition of CITGO, our direct competitor), creating serious questions about their ability to act in the best interests of all Phillips 66 shareholders.
    There are serious questions about Elliott’s expectation of director loyalty. Elliott’s attempt to replace Bob Pease while denying Phillips 66 access to interview and evaluate its nominees is a clear testament to the activist’s expectation of loyalty rather than true independence.
    Phillips 66 Has the Right Nominees
    John Lowe has over 30 years of experience in the energy sector and has created tangible value both in his executive and board positions at publicly traded energy companies.
    Bob Pease, who we appointed with support from Elliott, has extensive refining and commercial experience from his over 39-year career, and his leadership overseeing major corporate transformations has made him a highly effective Director.
    Nigel Hearne has substantial international upstream and downstream operating experience and will provide valuable refining operations and HS&E expertise.
    Howard Ungerleider holds over 30 years of chemicals leadership experience and oversaw the financial complexities of one of the largest and most complex mergers and spin-off transactions in recent history as CFO of DowDuPont.
    Your Vote Matters
    Phillips 66’s Board of Directors urges shareholders to use only the WHITE proxy card to vote:
    “FOR” all four of the candidates proposed by the Company and not Elliott’s four nominees;
    “FOR” management’s proposal to approve the declassification of the Board of Directors; and
    “AGAINST” Elliott’s proposal requiring annual director resignations, which implementing would violate Delaware law and put your Board at significant legal and reputational risk
    The Board strongly recommends that shareholders safeguard their investment in Phillips 66 by casting their vote as soon as possible, regardless of plans to attend the Annual Meeting virtually on May 21, 2025.
    Shareholders may receive materials from Elliott Management that say “gold proxy card” or “gold voting instructions” or similar. Phillips 66 recommends that shareholders DISCARD any Gold voting materials they may receive from Elliott. Shareholders may cancel out any vote made using a Gold proxy card by voting again TODAY using the Company’s WHITE proxy card. Only the latest-dated vote will count.
    About Phillips 66
    Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
    Additional Information
    On April 8, 2025, Phillips 66 filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”) and its solicitation of proxies for Phillips 66’s director nominees and for other matters to be voted on. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement or any other document that Phillips 66 has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with any solicitation by Phillips 66. PHILLIPS 66 SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SEC AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents (including the WHITE proxy card) filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC without charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Phillips 66’s investor relations website at https://investor.phillips66.com or upon written request sent to Phillips 66, 2331 CityWest Boulevard, Houston, TX 77042, Attention: Investor Relations.
    Certain Information Regarding Participants
    Phillips 66, its directors, its director nominees and certain of its executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from Phillips 66 shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the names of such persons and their respective interests in Phillips 66, by securities holdings or otherwise, is available in the Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC on April 8, 2025, including in the sections captioned “Beneficial Ownership of Phillips 66 Securities” and “Appendix C: Supplemental Information Regarding Participants in the Solicitation.” To the extent that Phillips 66’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation have acquired or disposed of securities holdings since the applicable “as of” date disclosed in the Proxy Statement, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Changes in Ownership of Securities on Form 4 or Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
    Non-GAAP Measures—This news release includes non-GAAP financial measures, including, “adjusted EBITDA” and “refining adjusted controllable costs.” These are non-GAAP financial measures that are included to help facilitate comparisons of operating performance across periods and to help facilitate comparisons with other companies in our industry. Where applicable, these measures exclude items that do not reflect the core operating results of our businesses in the current period or other adjustments to reflect how management analyzes results. Reconciliations to, or further discussion of, the most comparable GAAP financial measures can be found within or at the end of the news release materials.
    This news release also includes forward-looking non-GAAP financial measure estimates such as, but not limited to “adjusted EBITDA” and “refining adjusted controllable costs” which, as used in certain places herein, are forward looking non-GAAP financial measures. These forward-looking estimates or targets depend on future levels of revenues and/or expenses, including amounts that could be attributable to non-controlling interests or related joint ventures, which are not reasonably estimable at this time. Accordingly, reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the nearest GAAP financial measure cannot be provided without unreasonable effort. Below are definitions of these non-GAAP measures and identification of the most directly comparable GAAP measure.
    EBITDA is defined as estimated net income plus estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as estimated EBITDA plus the proportional share of selected equity affiliates’ estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization less the portion of estimated adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests. Net income is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for the consolidated company and income before income taxes is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for operating segments. Refining adjusted controllable cost is the sum of operating and SG&A expenses for our Refining segment, plus our proportional share of operating and SG&A expenses of two refining equity affiliates that are reflected in equity earnings of affiliates. The per barrel amounts are based on total processed inputs, including our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate, for the respective period.
    References in this news release to shareholder distributions and returns to shareholders refer to the sum of dividends paid to Phillips 66 stockholders and proceeds used by Phillips 66 to repurchase shares of its common stock. References in this news release to “synergies” or “dis-synergies” are supported by management’s estimates and assumptions. These estimates are derived from the Company’s internal projections and other relevant data. However, because these synergies or dis-synergies are not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), they cannot be directly reconciled to GAAP measures. The Company believes that these non-GAAP measures provide valuable insight into optimization benefits but cautions that such synergies or dis-synergies may not be realized in full or at all.
    Basis of News release—Effective April 1, 2024, we changed the internal financial information reviewed by our chief executive officer to evaluate performance and allocate resources to our operating segments. This included changes in the composition of our operating segments, as well as measurement changes for certain activities between our operating segments. The primary effects of this realignment included establishment of a Renewable Fuels operating segment, which includes renewable fuels activities and assets historically reported in our Refining, Marketing and Specialties (M&S), and Midstream segments; change in method of allocating results for certain Gulf Coast distillate export activities from our M&S segment to our Refining segment; reclassification of certain crude oil and international clean products trading activities between our M&S segment and our Refining segment; and change in reporting of our investment in NOVONIX from our Midstream segment to Corporate and Other. Accordingly, prior period results have been recast for comparability.
    Calculated as the weighted average of Refining (CVI, DINO, DK, MPC, PBF, VLO), Midstream (OKE, TRGP, WMB), and Chemicals (DOW, LYB, WLK) Performance Proxy Peers’ TSR based on the weighting of consensus NTM EBITDA estimates for PSX’s segments.
    Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) calculated from June 30, 2022 to March 31, 2025.
    Dividend CAGR calculated from initial dividend of $0.20 per share in 3Q 2012 to $1.15 per share in 4Q 2024.
    Permission to use quotations was neither sought nor obtained.
    Calculated as median of % change in price performance of Chemicals peers (DOW, LYB, WLK) between Elliott’s 2023 letter and Elliott’s 2025 letter.
    Last three-year average (2022-2024). “Core Peers” calculated as average of MPC and VLO. “Other Peers” calculated as average of CVI, DINO, DK and PBF. R&M EBITDA calculated as regional net operating margin plus adjustments to reconcile with stated Adjusted Worldwide R&M Adjusted EBITDA. “R&M” includes PSX Refining + PSX Marketing & Specialties segments and is most comparable to MPC and VLO, which report their Refining and Marketing operations as a single segment. A combined Refining and Marketing & Specialties presentation of Adjusted EBITDA is shown for peer comparison only and is not reflective of how the Phillips 66 chief operating decision maker evaluates performance; rather, Refining and Marketing & Specialties are reviewed as two separate operating segments.
    Excludes adjusted turnaround expenses; non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliation to the nearest GAAP measure can be found in slide 78 of the “Investor Presentation”here. PSX and peers exclude turnaround expense to be comparable; however, peer disclosure on other items e.g., corporate allocations and SG&A, varies and is not directly comparable to PSX methodology, which is inclusive of these items. For further details, refer to pages 16 and 17 of the “Investor Presentation” foundhere.
    Excluding adjusted turnaround expense, post-ceasing of operations at Los Angeles Refinery.
    Based on 2024 Adjusted Total Processed Inputs which include our proportional share of processed inputs of equity affiliates adjusted for projected impacts of cessation of operations of Los Angeles Refinery assuming throughput of 139 MBD at 2024 West Coast region utilization (94%) (~630 MMbbls).

    Source: Phillips 66

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Security: Inland Empire Man Sentenced for Possessing Trade Secrets Belonging to U.S. Employer to Build Business with China Company

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    A San Bernardino County man was sentenced Thursday for illegally possessing sensitive technologies that he downloaded from his Southern California-based employers and used to market his own competing company to a China-based company.

    Liming Li, 66, of Rancho Cucamonga, was sentenced to 12 months in prison by United States District Judge John A. Kronstadt, who also fined Li approximately $14,000 and ordered him to pay an additional $17,000 in restitution. LI was ordered to self-surrender by August 12, 2025.

    Li pleaded guilty to one count of possession of trade secrets in February.

    According to his plea agreement, from 1996 to 2013, Li worked for a Southern California-based business identified in court documents as “U.S. Company #1,” which specialized in precision measuring instruments and metrological technology and equipment. The company designed and sold a range of products such as micrometers, calipers, coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), and optical measurement systems.

    Li worked at U.S. Company #1 as a senior software engineer, then as a program manager. From 2013 to 2018, Li worked as chief technologist at a wholly owned subsidiary of U.S. Company #1. During his employment at U.S. Company #1 and its subsidiary, Li worked on the development of the source code for one of the company’s software programs, which was considered its proprietary information.

    In July 2013, Li signed an employee handbook and confidentiality agreement with U.S. Company #1 that required him to turn over all writings, records, files, technology, trade secrets or data containing any proprietary information belonging to the company. The agreement also prohibited Li from copying the company’s proprietary information without written permission.

    Li admitted in his plea agreement that he occasionally downloaded the company’s proprietary information onto his personal devices without permission. Li failed to return all the proprietary information belonging to U.S. Company #1 after its subsidiary terminated him in January 2018.

    In February 2018, Li operated a consulting company named JSL Innovations Inc. and in March 2020, he signed an employment agreement with Suzhou Universal Group Technology Co. Ltd., a China-based chain-and-bearing manufacturer. Li continued to work for Suzhou Universal until his arrest in May 2023. During this period, Li continued to knowingly possess U.S. Company #1’s proprietary information and – more than once – accessed this information without that company’s authorization.

    Li admitted that he used the proprietary information for his own economic benefit and that it would injure U.S. Company #1’s interests.

    The FBI investigated this matter with substantial assistance from the Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement, Bureau of Industry and Security.

    The case against Li was brought under the auspices of the Disruptive Technology Strike Force, which is co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce. The Strike Force seeks to counter efforts by hostile nation-states to illicitly acquire sensitive U.S. technology to advance their authoritarian regimes and facilitate human rights abuses.

    Assistant United States Attorney Aaron B. Frumkin of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section, Solomon D. Kim of the Major Frauds Section, and David T. Ryan, Chief of the National Security Division are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Getting Albertans back to work

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding skills training at Olds College

    [. To help address the increased demand for apprentices and skilled journeypersons, Alberta’s government is investing $25 million through Budget 2025 for the expansion and renovation of the W.J. Elliott building at Olds College, as part of a $63 million total investment over three years beginning in 2024.

    Upon completion, this project will add more than 440 new seats for trades programming, as well as 100 seats for dual-credit trades programs, including Agricultural Equipment Technician, Heavy Equipment Technician, Welder and Landscape Horticulturist.

    “The expansion of the W.J. Elliott building at Olds College will strengthen apprenticeship training and provide new learning opportunities in Alberta. By investing in apprenticeship education, we’re creating more career opportunities for Albertans, strengthening our workforce and growing our economy while meeting labour market demand.”

    Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education

    This expansion will increase apprenticeship learning opportunities for students by enhancing student spaces, ensuring more Albertans are equipped with the skills and training needed to meet the workforce demands of tomorrow.

    “Helping students find their passion through dual credit programs is key to their future success. We are proud to support a strong dual-credit program here in Alberta, and we will continue to work with education partners to find new ways to grow this important program for the benefit of Alberta’s students.”

    Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education

    Since 1971, the W.J. Elliott building has served as a home to trades programming at Olds College. The renovations will include new collaborative student and staff spaces as well as adding lifting equipment, such as overhead cranes and vehicle lifts equipped with highway tractor alignment systems and wheel dynamometers, to improve trades programming. Construction is set to begin early this summer and is expected to be complete by spring 2027.

    “The enhanced W.J. Elliott building will allow us to deliver a best-in-class experience for students and partners. With expanded classrooms, advanced labs and state-of-the-art equipment, Olds College will continue to meet the growing demand for skilled trades training while elevating the student experience and deepening industry collaboration.”

    Debbie Thompson, president and CEO, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology

    Alberta’s graduates are highly skilled and well-educated professionals; many go on to become leaders, innovators, business owners and educators in their industry. Targeted investment from Alberta’s government is expanding access for students and creating modern learning environments, supporting graduates in building their future.

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick facts

    • Alberta has 59 designated trades, 47 of which have associated apprenticeship education programs regulated under the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act.  
    • In Budget 2024, Alberta’s government committed to investing $63 million over three years in the expansion and renovation of the W.J. Elliot building at Olds College.
      • Of the total funding, 13 million was allocated in 2024.

    Related information

    • Olds College
    • Tradesecrets – Home
    • W.J. Elliott (Trades) Building

    Related news

    • New campaign promotes Alberta’s skilled trades | Nouvelle campagne de promotion des métiers spécialisés de l’Alberta | alberta.ca (Sept. 26, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thompsons Lecture: Employment law and the fundamental right to security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Thompsons Lecture: Employment law and the fundamental right to security

    On Thursday 8 May 2025, the Attorney General Lord Hermer KC delivered the Thompson Foundation Lecture on “Employment law and the fundamental right to security”

    Introduction

    Thank you very much for this opportunity to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Thompsons Solicitors, a firm that has been a beacon of justice for over a century.

    One of the features of my new life in government is that you are often give a very clear steer about what you have to talk about, so it was a particular pleasure to be invited to give a lecture with no title, and no particular ask as to what I should talk about at all – so let me thank you all for accepting an invitation to a lecture in which I suspect you have no idea at all about what I am about to say.

    In the first days of government, the Prime Minister, in an article entitled ‘Our Government of Service’, set out how the first obligation of government is to provide security to those that they serve. By security, Keir, was not limiting himself to the military defence of our country but also security in the wider sense – drawing on his own life experience, Keir described seeing the security that his parents derived from having their own home, a pebble-dashed semi in Oxted – the security and dignity that comes with a key to your own home. But Keir went on to say this “It’s not just security at home that matters, but security at work. That’s why we will level-up rights at work to deliver security and dignity for working people. It’s what they deserve.”

    The right to security is a fundamental human right, recognised in all the international human rights treaties which the UK has chosen to sign up to.

    It also underpins many of the Government’s missions in its Plan for Change, and that Plan for Change is premised on the central insight that effective protection of people’s right to security often requires positive state action to protect the vulnerable against the privately powerful. Security at work is a principle that the has been fought for by generations [Redacted political content] – they have time and time again taken on vested interests to secure basic rights for working people, often with the help of lawyers such as Thompsons.

    So, what I would like to do tonight is to seize this moment when the human right to security is central to the Government’s priorities and talk about the role that law can play in improving the security of working people in the workplace – how it plays a role as a standard setter for societal expectations of what is acceptable, what is not – what requires protection, and what does not.

    And I would also like to talk about the role of lawyers in ensuing that protective laws are applied effectively and consistently- as well as ensuring that those who break the law are held to account and those workers who suffer as a result are adequately compensated – and I want to exemplify this by taking as my central theme our current efforts to bring the Employment Rights Bill into law in the context of attempts by reforming governments of the past to bring in radical change for the benefit of the people of this country.

    This is, I hope both a timely theme and appropriate venue for such a talk.

    It’s timely because the Employment Rights Bill is currently winding its way through Parliament. This is I believe landmark legislation that will significantly advance the human right to security by fundamentally changing workers protections.

    Yet it is also legislation that faces sustained and alarmist criticism from sectors of society and our opponents in parliament who claim that (at best) it will curtail the UK’s competitiveness and (at worst) will bring the economy to a juddering halt. What I would like to do in part tonight is put these criticisms in their historical context – to show that these voices have always been present whenever reforming governments have sought to introduce progressive policies to make the lives of working people more secure but that these voices have consistently been shown to be misplaced.

    I also think that the Thompson’s lecture is the perfect venue to talk about how Government intends to change working life for the better. Founded in 1921 by the visionary civil rights lawyer, Harry Thompson (who also once lived in Oxted for which I thank Wikipedia), this firm has always championed the rights of the injured and mistreated. The firm is an inspiring illustration of how the law can be used as a powerful tool to protect and uplift working people.

    Driven by a profound commitment to social justice since its inception, Harry Thompson’s vision was clear: to create a legal practice that would serve as a shield for those who faced adversity and injustice. It has achieved this in large part through working in partnership with trade unions. The history of labour law in this country, the history of the establishment of the fundamental rights of labour to organise itself, the history of protections in the workplace and the history of the creation of employment rights, is the history of our trade union movement. That history is a source of immense national pride and Thompsons have realised a shared vision through partnership in tireless advocacy, groundbreaking legal victories, and unwavering dedication to the cause of justice and fairness.

    My own connections with Thompsons extend back decades to my early years at the Bar. When I started at the Bar, instructions from Thompsons were a form of golden ticket to not only legally interesting cases but ones that made real differences to people’s lives.

    To just pick two examples of cases that will always stay with me – Mick Antoniw, then a partner in the Cardiff office, now an Member of the Senedd and former Counsel General of Wales, instructed me to work with him on a tragic case of a 17 year old, Daniel Dennis, who on his very first day of work was sent up to work on a roof of a warehouse in Cwmbran without training or safety equipment. Daniel fell to his death and Thompsons worked tirelessly to ensure justice for his family, overcoming a deeply disappointing and unfair inquest result, successfully judicially reviewing a CPS decision not to prosecute his employer leading eventually to his conviction for manslaughter of that employer. Working in partnership with a bereaved family, Thompsons took on the company, took on the coronial system, took on the CPS in a successful fight for justice and it was a privilege to be part of it.

    In another case, I was instructed by Thompsons to represent the family of a young council workers, Ryan Preece and Robert Simpson, who had been sent down into the sewers in Crymlyn Burrows near Swansea to unblock drains only to be overcome and killed by fumes. A long inquest and subsequent civil claims including a group action showed that the cause of death was exposure to a covered-up spill from a nearby chemical factory – a coroner’s jury after many days returned an unlawful killing verdict and the company were forced to pay compensation, and Local Authority employers pleaded guilty to offences under the Health & Safety Act. It was a long, hard legal battle fought for the seemingly powerless against large vested interests who at one stage would have appeared invincible – the type of work for which Thompsons is famed and no doubt of which Harry Thomspon would have been proud. This was in the late 1990’s and I was instructed by a young, brilliant and utterly committed solicitor at Thompsons by the name of Jo Stevens, now a cabinet colleague and Secretary of State for Wales – applying those same qualities in her new job to the benefit of all of us.

    Enough of the reminiscing – let me turn to the substance of tonight’s talk.

    The Employment Rights Bill –

    As we know all too well, more than four million people in the UK are in precarious employment, with over one million employed on zero-hours contracts. Millions more lack access to proper sick pay schemes, leaving them vulnerable and unsupported in times of need.

    Wage growth under the previous government was worse than any other period since the 1920s. This stagnation has had a profound impact on our collective living standards, making it harder for working families to make ends meet.

    The government is now taking significant steps to address these issues through the introduction of new workers’ rights laws via the Employment Rights Bill, as I said, currently being debated in Parliament.

    This plan to make people’s lives less precarious, by making work pay, was developed in collaboration with both unions and business and as our Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said, on the Bill’s introduction, this is the biggest upgrade to rights at work for a generation, boosting pay and productivity with employment laws fit for a modern economy.

    It is a long, hugely ambitious Bill whose impact reaches across many aspects of working life and working conditions, so I will not dwell on every aspect but allow me to highlight some particular measures:

    As an aside, time and time again, there are some people saying we aren’t doing anything to help real people. As I was typing away at this speech, I reminded myself of how excellent this Bill is.

    First are a raft of measures designed to provide far greater guarantees for working people – addressing the scourge of the lack of security that so many in our society feel from zero hours contracts, lack of guaranteed hours, lack of day-one rights etc, standards that most would consider reflect basic decency. The Bill will:

    • introduce new rights to guaranteed hours, reasonable notice of shifts and compensation payments for shift cancellation, and for movement and curtailment at short notice for those on zero and other specified contracts
    • provide a right to request flexible working, remove the waiting period and lower earnings limit which apply in relation to statutory sick pay and strengthen protections in relation to tips and gratuities.

    Second the Bill will address the economic inequalities faced by women at work, manifested through higher levels of poverty and lack of financial independence, which evidence shows are linked to another area of government priority namely addressing violence against women and girls.

    The Bill:

    • provides a right to parental leave from day one of employment. It introduces provisions to require employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment at work and to prevent harassment at work by third parties.
    • It’ll make sure whistleblowing protections are extended to apply to disclosures relating to sexual harassment.
    • It introduces workplace support for women going through menopause

    Third, the Bill will modernise trade union legislation giving trade unions greater freedom to organise, represent and negotiate on behalf of their workers. This includes:

    • Repealing the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023, a punitive piece of legislation that set trade unionists’ rights back decades.
    • Strengthening trade unions’ right of access, including providing for digital access, allowing unions to operate more effectively.
    • Simplifying the trade union recognition process, including providing better access arrangements for unions and dealing more effectively with unfair practices.
    • Introducing new rights and protections for trade unions representatives.
    • And finally introducing a duty for employers to inform workers of their right to join a trade union. This is vital, because employers should not withhold information from workers that grants them greater protection- which joining a union does

    Fourth, is a point of critical importance – though under-reported – is the focus on enforcement of these new rights. The Bill will establish the Fair Work Agency, which will bring together the enforcement of domestic agency rules, the National Minimum Wage, licensing of gangmasters, and action against serious labour exploitation. It will also take on additional functions such as the enforcement of holiday pay. Its new powers will allow it to investigate, inspect and take action against businesses that are flouting the law. These include powers to investigate a wider range of cases of labour abuse, issue penalties, and bring cases to the employment tribunal on the behalf of workers.

    If delivered in full, this bill will benefit over 10 million workers, including many on low incomes. This is not just about improving individual lives; it’s about creating a fairer, more just society where all of us has the opportunity to thrive, and the privately powerful cannot exploit the vulnerable.

    The reaction to the Bill has been for the most part extremely positive. YouGov polling showed that 68% of the country were in favour of banning zero hours contract, 65% want to see the right to work flexible hours expanded and 62% are in favour of employment protections from day one. The reaction from business was also supportive – for example the Chief Executive of Centrica said this: “This isn’t just the right thing to do – its a foundation for the high growth, high skill economy the UK needs. While no one business has all the answers, our experience [at Centrica] show that our business thrives when our people thrive – so stronger rights for workers means stronger businesses, and that’s a win for everyone.”

    The Pushback

    Yet – although this Bill is self-evidently for the benefit of millions of working people, the reaction to it in some quarters has taken an often apocalyptic/feverish tone.

    A recent newspaper headline trivialised the significance of this Bill in ordinary workers’ lives, declaring that the Government believes a “Pub ‘banter ban’ is needed so anxious staff can feel safe at work […] and warned it could let workers ‘sue employers for hurt feelings’.”

    This, it turns out, refers to the Bill’s requirement that employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment of their staff by third parties.

    An opposition peer claimed that the “Workers’ rights bill will bring back ‘chaos of the 1970s’.” The Institute for Economic Affairs says that the Bill would stifle economic growth while hurting the very workers the Bill intends to protect. This is scaremongering, again seeking to distract from the benefits that workers stand to gain.

    There has been some concern about the costs involved and of course I recognise that is entirely legitimate for business leaders to seek detail on what changes mean for them.

    But the answer to this, as very many businesses big and small appreciate, is that improving worker well-being, reducing workplace conflict, and creating a more level playing field for good employers has the effect of increasing productivity – and we consider will lead to benefits worth billions of pounds a year. To give an insight on this, the Bill as I have described seeks to make work a safer and better place of work for women – obviously vitally important in itself but with huge potential impact on our growth agenda in the context of evidence showing that an increase in employment of women by 5% adds £125billion a year to the economy. That type of benefit is why as TUC research shows there’s strong backing among managers for better workers’ rights – a clear majority believe they will improve workforce retention, profits and productivity.

    But despite the values in this Bill, despite the evidence of positive impact on working people’s lives and on productivity –– there are those on the opposite benches in parliament who continue to claim that the Bill will be a drag on the economy.

    Then: resisting progressive legislation

    As a history graduate, I have a natural bias in believing that contemporary problems benefit from analysis in their historical context. Here, it is not simply interesting but instructive to see how the current criticisms of the Bill mirror attacks on earlier reforms to the improve the lives of working people. That is because it demonstrates that not simply were past reforms not nearly as damaging as the doomsayers predicted, not simply did they markedly improve the lives of millions of working people, but they were actually stimulants rather than drags on the economy.

    The history of social reform, legislation aiming to give ordinary people the most basic of rights, is littered with examples of doomsaying – that they would crash the economy or give rise to any number of social ills. Criticism in almost exactly the same terms as today and equally as misplaced.

    Let me start with an Act that predates the formation of the Labour Party, indeed was passed by the conservative government of Lord Salisbury, namely the Workmen’s Compensation Act 1897 a landmark British law that established the principle of employer liability for workplace injuries irrespective of fault and mandated insurance in place to pay for compensation.

    The 1897 Act covered industrial workers, including those in railways, mining, quarrying, factory work, and laundry work – work in which safety standards were minimal and the rate of injuries high – at a time in which injured workers and their families had no meaningful support from the state – indeed it was still 30 years still before the abolition of the poor house .

    And yet, the introduction of the legislation met opposition painting a dystopian picture of the consequences of compensating workers irrespective of fault – in particular an argument was advanced that it would lead to a massive drop in production because it was feared workers would deliberately chose to injure themselves in order to receive compensation. The Mining Association particularly objected to being, in their own words ‘selected for an experiment in legislation of the most novel and revolutionary character’.

    The argument made by one Geoffrey Drage MP, to understand the level of outrage in the House of Commons. Drage was a former secretary of the Royal Commission on Labour Relations and in the parliamentary debate listed issues that had arisen when a similar bill was passed in German. In short, Drage believed that to give a right of compensation would lead to endless false claims from workers and the massive reduction in productivity – in other words, workers were simply not to be trusted with basic rights.

    First, Drage said there had been “a remarkable increase in the number of industrial accidents in Germany” as “the working men showed increased carelessness, and, what was far more serious, an amount of negligence and malingering hitherto absent”.

    Second, he argued that “The workman in Germany had shown no scruples in preying on the [insurance] funds.” Drage suggested these new insurance schemes created an “extreme resentment” amongst the working classes if there were any delays or refusals for payouts, and in a lie echoed by the IEA today that “in the long run, the expense would be borne by the working classes, either as wage-earners, or as consumers, or as taxpayers.”

    Finally, Drage warned “that employers would not subscribe to charitable purposes so liberally as before” and that “a scheme of this kind would press heavily on the small employer, who was gradually being crushed out of existence.”

    In summary, the London Evening News (11/05/1897) recorded Geoffrey Drage’s views as denouncing the Bill “as a measure destructive of social peace in the industrial world.” All of this, scaremongering and hyperbole in response to the proposal that injured workers should have a right to compensation in an economy with no social safety nets beyond the Poor House.

    The Trade Boards Act 1909 represented a state-driven effort to control low pay, the first for virtually a century. It is a fitting Act to recall on VE day because it was introduced by the then President of the Board of Trade, Winston Churchill who when introducing the Bill said “it is a serious national evil that any class of His Majesty’s subjects should receive less than a living wage in return for their utmost exertions”. That’s 1909. The Bill established trade boards with the authority to set legally enforceable minimum wages.

    These boards consisted of representatives from workers, employers, and appointed government members – somewhat revolutionary when one considers that the Act came into force only a few decades after collective bargaining and strike action were finally decriminalised.

    So trenchant was the criticism of the Boards and the introduction of a power to set minimum wages that the Government set up the Cave Commission at which some employers argued that the Boards were the source of huge economic damage – as the Labour MP Rhys Davies noted in the House the arguments were akin to those where employers in the cotton mills of Lancashire used to say, nearly a century ago, that if you took away children of eight and ten years of age from the textile industry, that industry could not possibly be carried on at a profit, and the statements made by employers, particularly in the distributing and allied domestic trades, before this Cave Commission, are just of that type which are made from age to age by bad employers in all parts of the world

    By way of aside, then, as now, immigrants received much of the blame for stifling economic opportunities for domestic workers. In what was not, I suggest a high point for a trade union leader, John Burnett’s report on London’s East End, stated that Jewish immigrants, through their competition for work, reduced native labour to the verge of destitution. I pause to reflect that very few contemporary political moments do not have political and historical resonance.

    More surprising still for contemporary tastes is the opposition mounted to the Equal Pay Act 1970, ground-breaking legislation that I am sure for many of us here will be forever associated by the late, great Labour giant, Barbara Castle.

    It came into full effect in 1975, laying the groundwork for further advancements in gender equality and a precursor to the more comprehensive Equality Act 2010. The notion that women should receive equal rights in the workplace was not simply opposed by many, but was portrayed as a threat to very existence of ordered society.

    I quote directly from Martin Maddan MP in the Commons:

    If we invest highly in the training of all women, will there then be pressure on those women to continue their careers rather than to have children?” … “There is evidence that working mothers, especially those working full-time, may become less sensitive to the emotional and psychological, as well as the physical, needs of their children… Today’’s grandmothers are used to looking after children all day. What will be the position with tomorrow’’s grannies who have not devoted themselves to looking after children?

    Similarly, the implementation of minimum wage legislation in the 1990s was fiercely contested by employers who predicted economic ruin and job losses.

    A choice headline from the Daily Express in May 1998 shouted:

    Bosses wage war” – Jobs will be lost if a national minimum wage is brought in, bosses warned yesterday. Small firms groups said staff in pubs, petrol stations and the textile industry would face lay-offs. Industry chiefs and Tory MPs also warned that the figure of £3.60 an hour, proposed by the Low Pay Commission, could stoke inflation.

    The CBI argued until 1995 that a minimum wage – even if low – would create major problems for wage structures in a wide range of companies and destroy opportunities. That hasn’t aged well.

    [Redacted political content]

    So, despite dire warnings, the minimum wage has proven to be a success, raising living standards without the predicted negative impacts on employment. And it was a great moment last month to be part of a Government where we were able to raise the national minimum wage by £1,400 a year for a full-time eligible worker and a record cash increase for young workers and apprentices.

    Takeaways

    This is no more than a light touch review that can never aspire to even begin to do justice to the two hundred plus years of the modern struggle to establish basic labour rights in this country, the right to a union, the right to collective bargaining, the right to fair wages, the right to be safe in the workplace, the right not to be discriminated against in the workplace – and indeed the associated struggles to create, through law, the welfare state to support those unable to work through reasons of injury, infirmity, age or in times of economic hardship. At each turn these have been opposed, as now, by forces that sought to paint them, as existential threats to the economy and or our way of life, developments now accepted as having been of enormous benefit to the wealth as well as health of the nation.

    Let me then turn to this history of success in face of fierce opposition and seek to draw out five observations about the nature of law in the protection of working people, about the role of lawyers and finally to outline the political moral underpinnings of what the current Bill represents in the context of what has come before it.

    My first observation is how law, specifically in the form of legislation can radically change for the better what we as a society consider to be acceptable behaviour – it lifts us up and sets standards. Of course, there will always be a wide variety of reason why societal attitudes change over time but legislation is most certainly capable of playing its role. Here the struggles of the trade union movement, realised in the last 100 years most materially by Labour governments, has been to legislate in order to entrench into society standards of behaviour that at the time may have seen radical, indeed revolutionary but shortly thereafter were accepted as little more basic rights.

    The coming into force of these laws has of itself helped inform and change societies conception of what is right and what is wrong in the workplace. In the classroom this would be defined as a normative theory of law – how legal frameworks help set standards – it’s real world application has led to a fundamental change about how we perceive the nature of work and the value we attach to labour and the protections that working people must be afforded as part of their rights.

    My second observation is how this system of laws has brought enormous practical benefits to ordinary working people – drastically improving the quality of life for millions.

    It is at once inspiring and instructive to remind ourselves of the breadth of the ambition of those who brought in these fundamental transformations – the changes wrought by Unions, politicians and campaigners from fighting for the rights of their members, to ensure that people earned enough for their labour to live in dignity, to ensure equality in the workplace, to ensure that that workplaces were safe – these are measures that have had a profoundly positive impact on the quality of life for millions.

    To give one example, The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, was brought in the wake of the Aberfan disaster, introduced by Michael Foot. It’s success can be measured in a very simple metric, namely the lives and limbs saved: since 1974 occupational deaths and injuries have decreased by over 75%. Considering economic and occupational changes, fatalities at work have declined from 2.9 per 100,000 workers in 1974 to 0.42 per 100,000 workers in 2023-24. The simple fact is that legislation saved lives, limbs, sight and hearing.

    Of course there will always be push back – there will be those who argue that health and safety laws place an unnecessary burden on the economy. Yet, having acted for victims of the Grenfell Tower disaster I was struck how what seemed like a growing trend amongst some sectors of society to mock and ridicule ‘health & safety’ came to an abrupt stop on the night of 14 June 2017. It provides a cruel, stark but unanswerable example of the importance of compliance with health and safety laws and its measured by the converse – the tragic consequences measured in human life when we do not.

    My third observation is the essential role played by lawyers such as Thompsons and many others in the enforcement of this legislative framework and the work that they do to ensure accountability for victims of violations of those laws. A good legal framework is only half the battle – without legal professionals dedicated to ensuring through public law that laws are upheld and rights defended, without legal professionals ensuring through private law that those injured by failures to comply with obligations are adequately compensated then those laws risk becoming ineffective. A right without a remedy is no right at all – and the essential job of labour lawyers, employment lawyers and personal injury lawyers for generations has been to ensure that working people’s hard won legislative gains are capable of vindication and a determined effort to ensure that common law keeps step – the work of these lawyers is an essential part of the system.

    My fourth observation draws from the history of the struggle to secure rights for working people and the determination to deliver notwithstanding the opposition faced. That spirit of determination, to effect real positive change in the lives of millions of people in this country, is what drives this Government to place the Employment Rights Bill at the centre of our agenda of change. Of course we want to make the Bill as good as possible, of course we are not as arrogant to think that every criticism of the Bill during its passage through Parliament has to be dismissed out of hand – but nobody should underestimate on our single minded determination to deliver, borne out of a belief that the changes we seek to bring about will make a real difference to the lives of those we serve.

    None of this I stress should be taken in any sense as being anti-business. To the contrary, under Keir gone are the days in which there was a binary choice between labour and business.

    I passionately believe that good employers recognise, even as matter of enlightened self-interest, that laws which protect the fundamental rights of their workforce are a source of good and lead to greater not less economic productivity. Similarly, I think it is well understood in the labour movement that this country needs an environment in which business flourish, our economy grows and investment flows. Thus we are advancing this package of ambitious change in the Bill at the same time as, and complimentary to, the ongoing work of Rachel Reeves and Jonny Reynolds to boost economic growth and attract investment – in a week we got two trade deals and a Bank of England cut in interest rates. The country has an incredible offer to investors – we are a stable democracy at a time of global uncertainty, we have one of the most advanced economies in the world and are well placed to lead in a changing world not least in AI and green technology, whilst at the same time, as our intervention in Scunthorpe demonstrated, a will not hesitate to act to protect vital parts of our infrastructure.

    A workforce whose fundamental rights are protected by law is a boon to an economy – an economy in which people feel valued, in which legal protections reflect the values in which they are held, is far more likely to be a strong and resilient economy.

    My fifth and final observation is to reflect upon the motivation and principles that lie behind our determination to introduce this Bill which brings me back to the central importance for this Government of the fundamental right to security for the people of this country. The measures are of course about securing increased justice and equality in the workplace but underlying this is a profound belief in the dignity of every human being and an understanding that the role of the State is to ensure that each person is accorded dignity in all aspects of their lives, including where necessary by regulating private power, not least in the realm of employment.

    Our belief in the dignity of each person is also mirrored in our anger at how so many are mistreated in the workplace disdainfully, patronisingly, without respect, belittled and bullied. This belief in the dignity of all drives our determination to ensure that every person is afforded the opportunity to work, that we have the opportunity to realise our potential at work, that we are employed in decent, safe workplaces, that we are protected from exploitation and discrimination and that we are paid a fair wage. We go further – this Bill is designed to empower people to flourish in our workplaces. It recognises that the workplace is one of the most important domains in British citizens’ lives, where we will spend most of our time, and we should be able to flourish in this setting as we do with our families and in our communities.

    The promotion and protection of the dignity of all of us lies at the heart of what the labour and trade union movement fought for decade upon decade.

    As the ILO Constitution puts it, we have “a right to pursue our material well being and spiritual development in conditions of freedom and dignity, of economic security and equal opportunity.”

    [Redacted political content]

    So, to draw all these points together–- A belief in the dignity of all, a commitment to giving practical effect to the human right to security, a sense of boiling anger when those around us are not treated with dignity and respect – and a steely determination to do something about it.

    These are the qualities that no doubt inspired Harry Thompson to create this great firm, that inspired the Trade Union and labour movement to effect fundamental change in society and will continue to be a guiding force for this Labour government, this government of service, in creating the change that this country needs.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Charges Syracuse, N.Y., Man, His Firm with Fraud, Misappropriation

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today announced it filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York against Dean S. Dellas of Syracuse, New York, and his investment advisory company, DSD Capital Management, LLC, for fraud and misappropriation. 
    In its complaint, the CFTC seeks restitution, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, civil monetary penalties, permanent trading and registration bans, and a permanent injunction against further violations of the Commodity Exchange Act, as charged.
    Case Background
    The complaint alleges Dellas and DSD Capital acted as commodity trading advisors who, from at least February 2021 through November 2023, committed fraud through material misrepresentations and omissions and misappropriation of more than $690,000 from at least two clients — a 61-year-old man (Client A) and his 91-year-old mother (Client B) — who had entrusted the defendants to manage their entire lifesavings. 
    The complaint alleges the defendants, who had complete authority over Client A’s accounts, entered into tens of thousands of futures transactions without warning him of the inherent risks. These trades incurred more than $169,000 in trading losses and commissions. The defendants concealed these losses and commissions from Client A, assuring him his accounts were doing well. Although the defendants agreed and represented they would only charge fees equating to 10% of profits, they took considerably more than they were entitled. Indeed, despite the significant losses Client A had suffered, the defendants misappropriated more than $235,000 from Client A by secretly transferring to themselves large sums of Client A’s money and fraudulently charging excessive, unjustified fees.
    The complaint also alleges after succeeding in defrauding Client A, the defendants expanded their fraud to Client A’s elderly mother, Client B. Without her knowledge, the defendants bought or sold futures contracts through Client B’s account tens of thousands of times, causing her to incur more than $196,000 in trading losses and commissions. The defendants actively concealed these losses from Client B and misappropriated more than $459,000 from her by transferring to themselves large sums of her money and fraudulently charging fees that were excessive and unjustified given the defendants’ promise to only charge fees equating to 10% of profits.
    According to the complaint, to keep their fraud ongoing, the defendants took various steps to conceal and obfuscate their conduct. Among other things, Dellas concealed the substance of documents he directed Clients A and B to sign and impersonated them in dealings with futures commission merchants.   
    Parallel Criminal Action
    On May 6, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York unsealed an indictment charging Dean Dellas with wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with the same scheme alleged in the CFTC’s complaint. United States v. Dellas, No. 5:25-cr-184 (N.D.N.Y.), ECF No. 1 (indictment).
    The CFTC appreciates the assistance of the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this case are Chrystal Gonnella, Dmitriy Vilenskiy, Derek S. Hammond, Jonah E. McCarthy, A. Daniell Ullman II, and Paul G. Hayeck.
    CFTC Fraud Advisories
    The CFTC has issued several customer protection Fraud Advisories and Articles about how customers can detect, avoid, and report scams.
    The CFTC also strongly urges the public to verify a company’s registration with the CFTC at NFA BASIC before committing funds. If unregistered, a customer should be wary of providing funds to that entity.
    Suspicious activities or information, such as possible violations of commodity trading laws, can be reported to the Division of Enforcement via a toll-free hotline 866-FON-CFTC (866-366-2382) or file a tip or complaint online or contact the Whistleblower Office. Whistleblowers are eligible to receive between 10 and 30 percent of the monetary sanctions collected, paid from the Customer Protection Fund financed through monetary sanctions paid to the CFTC by violators of the CEA.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: India-Pakistan conflict over water reflects a region increasingly vulnerable to climate change

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Mehebub Sahana, Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Geography, University of Manchester

    Water from the Chandra Taal lake in Himachal Pradesh, India, ultimately flows into Pakistan and the Indus river. ImagesofIndia / shutterstock

    In an unprecedented move, India recently suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, citing cross-border terrorism. This was one of a series of escalations between the two countries which now find themselves on the brink of war.

    The treaty suspension reflects a growing regional trend: South Asian countries are increasingly treating water as a strategic asset rather than a shared resource amid rising mistrust, climate stress and geopolitical competition.

    The region is home to nearly a quarter of the global population, and relies on huge transboundary rivers fed by Himalayan glaciers – the so-called “Third Pole” of freshwater reserves. A breakdown in water diplomacy could trigger environmental collapse, humanitarian crises and geopolitical instability. The weaponisation of water must be urgently addressed as a global climate justice issue.

    A flashpoint occurred in August 2024 when devastating floods affected nearly 5.8 million people in Bangladesh. Some Bangladeshi officials accused India of releasing excess water from a large dam upstream without warning. India denied responsibility, citing extreme rainfall and standard dam operations. Nevertheless, the incident reignited longstanding tensions between the two countries.

    Complicating matters further is China recently approving the construction of the world’s largest hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet, which becomes the Brahmaputra in India. This massive project has raised alarm about China’s ability to exert control upstream, and the ecological risks for India and Bangladesh downstream.

    China hasn’t signed formal water-sharing agreements with its neighbours, but its growing presence in regional water infrastructure signals a dramatic shift in south and east Asian hydro-politics.

    Climate change is making things worse

    Recent climatic trends are making transboundary rivers an increasing focus of geopolitical friction. These trends include accelerated glacier melt, erratic monsoon patterns, and intensifying extreme weather.

    While melting glaciers will temporarily boost the flow of rivers, the long-term prognosis is bleak. If emissions and warming trends continue, many glacier-fed rivers – including the Indus, Ganges and Brahmaputra – could see dramatically reduced flows by the end of the century. This will directly affect hundreds of millions of people who depend on them.

    The crisis is being intensified by changes in the Himalayas. The region is warming faster than the global average, with a shift from snowfall to rainfall that disrupts the timing and volume of water that flows down from the mountains to the fields and cities below.

    At the same time, unsustainable groundwater extraction has pushed South Asia’s reserves of underground water toward collapse, threatening both food and water security.

    A dangerous precedent

    A collapse or suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty could set a dangerous precedent. Importantly, the threat is less about India cutting off water flows – an unlikely and technically challenging act – and more about the erosion of trust, transparency and data sharing.

    One of the treaty’s most valuable features has been the routine sharing of data on things like water levels, river flow and dam operations. Pakistan needs this data to forecast floods and droughts, plan its irrigation, generate hydropower effectively and manage its drinking water, yet India is indicating it will no longer honour these obligations.

    But India’s strained water relations are not limited to Pakistan. Bangladesh and Nepal have often felt sidelined or pressured in negotiations, and India’s indication that it may reconsider longstanding treaties raises concerns in both countries.

    This is especially the case as the Ganges Water Treaty nears its 2026 expiration: the vast Ganges river flows through India and irrigates much of Bangladesh – and the treaty guarantees Bangladesh a minimum river flow.

    Other key agreements, such as the Mahakali Treaty and Kosi river accord with Nepal, and the Teesta water-sharing deal with Bangladesh, remain largely unimplemented, breeding mistrust. These failures undermine confidence in regional water diplomacy and cast doubt on India’s commitment to equitable cooperation.

    None of this is helped by India, Pakistan and Bangladesh all continuing to rely on outdated irrigation methods that mean they use more water than necessary. As climate change intensifies floods, droughts and glacial melt, there is an urgent need to reform existing water treaties to reflect present-day climate, hydrological and geopolitical realities.

    Canals, like this one in Punjab, India, irrigate much of South Asia.
    Hussain Warraich / shutterstock

    The Indus Waters Treaty, negotiated in the 1960s before the emergence of modern climate science, no longer accounts for these transformations. Indeed, most water treaties in the region remain rooted in technocratic, engineering-centric frameworks which fail to address extreme climate variability and its cascading impacts.

    The upcoming expiration of the Ganges Water Treaty, and the pending negotiation of other basin agreements, present a critical opportunity to rethink water governance in South Asia.

    Though the Indus flows through India before Pakistan, in other basins, India is downstream. This is the case with the Brahmaputra, where it demands upstream cooperation from China.

    Undermining the Indus treaty could weaken India’s own position in future negotiations and strain its relations with Nepal and Bangladesh, while giving China more influence in South Asian hydro-politics. China is already expanding its footprint by offering billions in loans to Bangladesh and strengthening ties with Nepal, particularly around water infrastructure.

    Many of the world’s largest rivers begin in the Himalayas or the Tibetan Plateau.
    JudeMakesMaps, CC BY-SA

    Weaponising water is a perilous strategy that may backfire. The weakening of water diplomacy in South Asia is not just a regional threat; it endangers global climate security.

    In the face of escalating climate change impacts and recurring disasters, updating transboundary agreements like the Indus Waters Treaty, Ganga Water Treaty, and Kosi and Teesta accords is no longer optional – it is an urgent necessity with enormous consequences.

    Mehebub Sahana receives funding from the Leverhulme Trust, United Kingdom.

    ref. India-Pakistan conflict over water reflects a region increasingly vulnerable to climate change – https://theconversation.com/india-pakistan-conflict-over-water-reflects-a-region-increasingly-vulnerable-to-climate-change-256253

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI: 100x Leverage, No KYC, $50 Welcome Bonus, and Double Deposit Bonus — Trade Crypto Futures on BexBack

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin breaking past the $100,000 milestone and Ethereum surging over 20% in just 24 hours, many analysts agree that a new crypto bull market has officially begun. In this environment, smart investors are turning to high-leverage futures trading to amplify their gains with minimal capital.
    Recognizing this shift, BexBack is doubling down on its trader-first approach by offering powerful promotional incentives: a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and up to 100x leverage on over 50 major cryptocurrencies. These tools are designed to help traders capture the full potential of the bull cycle with precision and flexibility.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP,and 50+ others futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC and 1M USDT in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

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    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (available after making a deposit of at least 100 USDT or 0.001 BTC and completing one trade within one week of registration), giving you the edge to become a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
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    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d8756246-a0d7-43d5-8997-7ba914797447

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    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9303617e-2546-4ca1-8a3f-e7b2f0406d6a

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Fireweed Upsizes Financing to $60 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FIREWEED METALS CORP. (“Fireweed” or the “Company”) (TSXV: FWZ; OTCQX: FWEDF), is pleased to announce that, due to strong institutional investor demand, it has entered into an agreement with Ventum Financial Corp. as co-lead agent and bookrunner, alongside Haywood Securities Inc., as co-lead agent, on behalf of a syndicate of agents, to increase the Company’s previously announced brokered and non-brokered financing from $45 million to up to $60 million. See press release of the Company dated May 8, 2025.

    Pursuant to the amended terms of the financing, the brokered private placement (“Brokered Offering”) will now consist of:

    • 12,545,000 critical mineral charity flow-through common shares (“CM FT Shares”) of the Company at a price of $2.79 per CM FT Share for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $35,000,550.
    • 4,281,000 non-critical mineral charity flow-through common shares (“NCM FT Shares”) of the Company at a price of $2.57 per NCM FT Share for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $11,002,170.

    The Company has also decided to increase the size of the non-brokered private placement (“Non-Brokered Offering”) which will now consist of:

    • 7,777,800 common shares of the Company (“Shares”) at a price of $1.80 per Share, for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $14,000,040.

    In all other respects, the terms of the Brokered Offering and Non-Brokered Offering remain as previously disclosed in the original press release of the Company related to the financing dated May 8, 2025, a copy of which is available on the Company’s website at FireweedMetals.com and at www.sedarplus.com.

    The securities being offered have not, nor will they be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons in the absence of U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from the U.S. registration requirements. This release does not constitute an offer for sale of securities in the United States.

    About Fireweed Metals Corp.

    Fireweed is an exploration company focused on unlocking value in a new critical metals district located in Northern Canada. Fireweed is 100% owner of the Macpass District, a large and highly prospective 985 km2 land package. The Macpass District includes the Macpass zinc-lead-silver project and the Mactung tungsten project. A Lundin Group company, Fireweed is strongly positioned to create meaningful value.

    Fireweed trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbol “FWZ”, on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol “FWEDF”, and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “M0G”.

    Additional information about Fireweed and its projects can be found on the Company’s website at FireweedMetals.com and at www.sedarplus.com

    ON BEHALF OF FIREWEED METALS CORP.

    Ian Gibbs

    CEO

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

    Cautionary Statements

    Forward Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking” statements and information (“forward-looking statements”). All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included herein, including, without limitation, statements relating to the Brokered Offering and the Non-Brokered Offering, timing thereof, completion and use of proceeds thereof, statements relating to interpretation of drill results, targets for exploration, potential extensions of mineralized zones, geophysical anomalies, future work plans, and the potential of the Company’s projects, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “potential”, “possible”, and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results “will”, “may”, “could”, or “should” occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to Company management and reflect the beliefs, opinions, and projections on the date the statements are made. Forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties and accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include but are not limited to, exploration and development risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, expenditure and financing requirements, general economic conditions, changes in financial markets, the ability to properly and efficiently staff the Company’s operations, the sufficiency of working capital and funding for continued operations, title matters, First Nations relations, operating hazards, political and economic factors, competitive factors, metal prices, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulations and oversight, permitting, seasonality and weather, technological change, industry practices, uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drilling results and laboratory tests, and one-time events. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward‐looking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections or other factors, except as required by law.

    Contact: Alex Campbell

    Phone: +1 (604) 689-7842

    Email: info@fireweedmetals.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: HTX DeepThink: Liquidity Window Confirmed — Bitcoin Hits $100K Again, What’s Next?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX DeepThink is a flagship market insights column created by HTX, dedicated to exploring global macro trends, key economic indicators, and major developments across the crypto industry. In a world where volatility is the norm, HTX DeepThink aims to help readers “Find Order in Chaos.”

    Last week, Chloe (@ChloeTalk1) from HTX Research accurately predicted that a liquidity window could emerge in early May, driving capital back into crypto markets. On May 8, Bitcoin surged past $100,000 for the first time in three months—confirming her forecast. How long can this momentum last, and what are the implications of the latest U.S.-UK tariff deal? In this bonus update, Chloe provides fresh analysis of the evolving landscape.

    UK–U.S. Tariff Agreement Signals Reduced Risk and Policy Support

    On May 8, the United Kingdom and the United States reached a breakthrough trade agreement. The UK agreed to open its agricultural market for U.S. products in exchange for a reduction in U.S. tariffs on British automobile exports. Tariffs on British steel and aluminum exports to the U.S. were reduced to zero, while a 10% “reciprocal tariff” remains in place on U.S. imports.

    Although the UK already runs a trade deficit with the U.S. and the economic impact of the deal may be modest, it signals a willingness by the U.S. government to re-engage diplomatically and release policy tailwinds.

    U.S. Commerce Secretary Lutnick further indicated that the next major trade agreement could involve a large Asian economy, suggesting that the U.S. administration is preparing to offer structural trade incentives on a broader geopolitical scale.

    Bitcoin’s Market Structure Shifts From Speculative Trading to Institutional Capital Allocation

    Concurrently with these easing policy conditions, Bitcoin’s capital flow dynamics have undergone a fundamental shift. Over the past three weeks, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs have recorded substantial net inflows totaling $5.3 billion——the highest quarterly inflow since their launch.

    Notably, this increase has been driven by institutional participants, including the Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund, the Swiss National Bank (via MicroStrategy equity purchases), and increased allocations by BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF. This signals a structural transition in Bitcoin’s pricing logic—moving from short-term, volatility-driven speculation towards long-term capital allocation. BTC is evolving beyond a high-risk asset; it is gradually forming an independent capital ecosystem, increasingly viewed by institutional investors as a “supra-sovereign asset”—somewhere between gold and U.S. Treasuries.

    Bitcoin Volatility Remains Contained; Market Awaits Macroeconomic Catalysts

    Despite BTC’s recent rally to $100,000, the market has not yet exhibited signs of speculative exuberance. Implied volatility (IV) in Bitcoin options remains stable in the 50%–55% range, far below the extreme levels of 80%+ typically seen at the peak of past bull markets. CME Bitcoin futures open interest currently stands at $14.8 billion, well below the $20 billion peak observed during the 2020 U.S. presidential election period, indicating that leverage is still manageable. Meanwhile, the 10-year U.S. Treasury yield has repeatedly failed to break above 4.60%, now hovering around 4.40%, which remains a neutral-to-supportive zone for risk assets.

    Overall, as long as yields do not climb back above 4.8% and ETF inflows remain steady, Bitcoin is likely to consolidate in the $105,000–$115,000 range while awaiting the next breakout trigger.

    Hidden Risk: Breakdown in China–U.S. and EU–U.S. Trade Talks Could Reignite Tariff Battles

    Nevertheless, investors should remain vigilant about geopolitical risk. While U.S. negotiations with China and the EU are ongoing, significant unresolved tensions persist—particularly over tariffs, export controls, and industrial subsidies.

    President Trump has explicitly stated he has no intention of lowering the current 145% tariff on Chinese goods as a prerequisite for restarting trade negotiations. Meanwhile, EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warned that if discussions with the U.S. fail, the EU is prepared to launch retaliatory tariffs, potentially targeting up to €100 billion worth of American goods.

    A breakdown in these negotiations could lead to the re-imposition of aggressive tariffs, reigniting global trade friction. This would likely dampen investor sentiment and place renewed pressure on risk assets, including Bitcoin. As such, the hidden risk of renewed tariff wars remains a key macro variable that should be incorporated into all forward-looking risk assessments.

    *The above content is not investment advice and does not constitute any offer or solicitation to offer or recommendation of any investment product.

    About HTX Research

    HTX Research is the dedicated research arm of HTX Group, responsible for conducting in-depth analyses, producing comprehensive reports, and delivering expert evaluations across a broad spectrum of topics, including cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and emerging market trends.

    Connect with HTX Research Team: research@htx-inc.com

    Contact:
    Ruder Finn Asia
    glo-media@htx-inc.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a5c15cb3-3c1d-450c-9226-e9a09951388a

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Export bar placed on £10 million Botticelli painting

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Export bar placed on £10 million Botticelli painting

    A temporary export bar has been placed on a painting of the Virgin Mary by Italian painter, Sandro Botticelli

    • The work has been valued at £10.2 million 
    • The export bar will allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire the painting for the nation

    An export bar has been placed on a painting by Italian master, Sandro Botticelli, which is at risk of leaving the UK.

    Botticelli was one of the leading Florentine painters of the second half of the fifteenth century and one of the most recognisable names in art history. Botticelli became well-known for his mythological and religious paintings, often with a focus on beauty and harmony. His most famous works include The Birth of Venus and Primavera. 

    Valued at more than £10.2 million (£9,960,000 + £272,000 VAT) the painting depicts an image of the Virgin Mary enthroned with the Christ Child and is believed to have been painted in the 1470s, early in Botticelli’s career. If saved by a cultural institution, the painting would represent a significant addition to the body of work by Botticelli in UK collections. Very few early Botticelli’s remain in the UK and it would provide a richer and more detailed understanding of his work and the development of Florentine painting in the later fifteenth century.

    The Virgin and Child Enthroned exemplifies Botticelli’s ability to combine radiant humanity and powerful spirituality. The shape and angle of the Virgin’s face bear similarities to the central Venus in Botticelli’s celebrated Primavera, painted in the late 1470s or early 1480s. 

    The artist has also given exceptional attention to the Virgin’s features, with the light catching her upper eyelids, the tip of her nose and the cupid’s bow of her lips.

    Arts Minister, Sir Chris Bryant said: 

    This painting is a perfect example of Botticelli’s genius and a unique part of history. 

    I hope that a UK gallery is able to save this work so that it can be enjoyed by the public for generations to come.

    Christopher Baker, Committee member:

    Dating from the early 1470s, this affecting devotional work, demonstrates the sophistication of Botticelli’s painting early in his career in Florence. Probably intended to inspire private prayer in a domestic setting, it is an image that has a wider resonance as it delicately explores the power of maternal love.

    The cult of, or enthusiasm for Botticelli, of which it formed a part, had grown during the Victorian era and the painting arrived in Britain in 1904; it was acquired by Lady Wantage and entered the renowned Lloyd collection.

    Further research on the placement of Botticelli’s work in his career and the organisation of his workshop, as well as links with the wider context of Florentine Renaissance art would all be of enormous benefit. In view of these intriguing possibilities every effort should be made to try and secure this beguiling painting for a British collection.

    The Minister’s decision follows the advice of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest.

    The RCEWA Committee found that The Virgin and Child Enthroned painting met the third Waverley criterion for its outstanding significance for the study of western art and its reception in later periods, Botticelli, the process and practice of Florentine workshops, and the history of collecting in the UK. 

    The decision on the export licence application for the painting will be deferred for a period ending on 8 August 2025 inclusive. At the end of the first deferral period owners will have a consideration period of 15 business days to consider any offer(s) to purchase the painting at the recommended price of £9,960,000 (plus VAT of £272,000, which can be reclaimed by an eligible institution). The second deferral period will commence following the signing of an Option Agreement and will last for six months.

    Offers from public bodies for less than the recommended price through the private treaty sale arrangements, where appropriate, may also be considered by the Minister. Such purchases frequently offer substantial financial benefit to a public institution wishing to acquire the item.

    Notes to editors

    1. Organisations or individuals interested in purchasing the panel should contact the RCEWA on 02072680534 or rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk.
    2. Details of the item are as follows: Alessandro di Mariano Filipepi, called Sandro Botticelli (1444/5–1510) The Virgin and Child enthroned, early 1470s Tempera on panel, 83.3 x 44.9 cm
    3. Provenance: Oratorio of San Giuliano, in the Convent of San Giuliano, which was later bought and rebuilt by the Calasanzian order, via Faenza, Florence, by the early 19th century; Placed in the chapel of a convalescent home for the sick bretheren of the Calasanzian Order or Scuole Pie of Florence, Comezzano, near Vaggio, Figline Valdarno, Province of Florence; By inheritance with the property to the Graziani family, remaining in situ until about 1900; Giovanni Magherini Graziani (1852–1924), Poggitazzi, Terranove Bracciolini, near Arezzo, and via Pinti, Florence; By whom sold, in November 1903, to the dealer Elia Volpi, Florence; From whom bought by Harriet Sarah Jones Loyd, Lady Wantage (1837–1920), in May 1904; Thence by descent at Lockinge House, Wantage, and after 1944 at Betterton House, near Wantage, Berkshire.
    4. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest is an  independent body, serviced by Arts Council England (ACE), which advises the Secretary of State for  Culture, Media and Sport on whether a cultural object, intended for export, is of national importance under specified criteria.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Endeavor Bancorp Declares 2% Stock Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Endeavor Bancorp (OTCQX: EDVR) (the “Company,” or “Bancorp”), the holding company for Endeavor Bank (the “Bank”), today announced its Board of Directors has declared a 2% stock dividend to be distributed on May 22, 2025, to shareholders of record on May 9, 2025 (the “Record Date”).

    Shareholders will receive two additional shares of common stock for every 100 shares currently owned. A cash payment will be made in lieu of fractional shares in an amount equal to the product of (a) the fair value of a share of common stock on the Record Date, multiplied by (b) the applicable fraction of one share of common stock owned by the shareholder.

    “As our franchise continues to deliver strong earnings, we are pleased to be able to pay a stock dividend to our loyal shareholders,” said Dan Yates, CEO. “We view this stock dividend as a means of improving trading liquidity by increasing the number of shares available.”

    About Endeavor Bancorp 

    Endeavor Bancorp, the holding company for Endeavor Bank, is primarily owned and operated by Southern Californians for Southern California businesses and their owners. The bank’s focus is local: local decision-making, local board, local founders, local owners, and relationships with local clients in Southern California.

    Headquartered in downtown San Diego in the Symphony Towers building, the Bank also operates a loan production and executive administration office in Carlsbad, a branch office in La Mesa, and an office in LA/Inland Empire. Endeavor Bank provides traditional business banking services across a broad spectrum of industries and specialties. Unique to the bank is its consultative banking approach that partners our business clients with Endeavor Bank’s senior management. Together, we build strategies and provide resources that solve problems, plan for the future, and help clients’ efforts to grow revenues and profits. Endeavor Bancorp trades on the OTCQX® Best Market under the symbol “EDVR.” Visit www.endeavor.bank for more information.

    Endeavor Bank is rated by Bauer Financial as Five-Star “Superior” for strong financial performance, the top rating given by the independent bank rating firm. DepositAccounts.com awarded Endeavor Bank an A rating.

    EDVR Shareholders 

    With many of our shareholders transferring their EDVR shares to their brokerage companies, along with ongoing trading taking place, Endeavor Bancorp may not have the most current shareholder contact information. If you are an EDVR shareholder and would like to receive information via a more timely method, please complete the Shareholder Communication Preference Form on our website: https://www.bankendeavor.com/investor-relations so we can keep you updated on EDVR news, and invite you to various shareholder networking events throughout the year. 

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements,” as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of the Company’s directors and executive officers (collectively, “Management”), as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company’s Management. All statements regarding the Company’s business strategy and plans and objectives of Management of the Company for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect” and “intend” and words or phrases of similar meaning, as they relate to the Company or the Company’s Management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations (“cautionary statements”) are loan losses, rapid and unanticipated deposit withdrawals, unavailability of sources of liquidity, additional regulatory requirements that may be imposed on community banks or banks generally, changes in interest rates, loss of key personnel, lower lending limits and capital than competitors, regulatory restrictions and oversight of the Company, the secure and effective implementation of technology, risks related to the local and national economy, the effect on customers, collateral value and property insurance markets of the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and similar events in the future, changes in real estate values, the Company’s implementation of its business plans and management of growth, loan performance, interest rates, and regulatory matters, the effects of trade, monetary and fiscal policies, inflation, and changes in accounting policies and practices. Based upon changing conditions, if any one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, or intended. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

    Endeavor Bancorp Contact Information:
    (858) 230.5185
    Dan Yates, CEO
    dyates@bankendeavor.com

    (858) 230.4243
    Steve Sefton, President
    ssefton@bankendeavor.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Jakarta ETO supports Zuni Icosahedron’s Asia tour to promote cultural exchange (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Jakarta (HKETO Jakarta) supported the Asia tour of Hong Kong theatre group Zuni Icosahedron in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to promote cultural and artistic exchange between Hong Kong and Malaysia.

         The featured programme of the Asia tour, titled “Left Unsaid”, is a Cantonese dark drama adapted from the original play by the Artistic Director of the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre, Nick Yu. The play starred Hong Kong veteran actors Cecilia Yip and Kenny Wong and featured the adaptation, direction, and stage design by Co-Artistic Director of the theatre group Mathias Woo. The performance integrated theatre with art technology, showcasing a blend of theatrical aesthetics and multimedia innovation.

         Speaking at the opening ceremony today (May 9), the Director-General of the HKETO Jakarta, Miss Libera Cheng, said that under the National 14th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong is strategically positioned as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been promoting cultural and arts development. The Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development promulgated last year sets out a clear vision, principles and strategic directions for the future development of the arts, culture and creative industries in Hong Kong.

         “Zuni Icosahedron has actively fostered cross-city, cross-field, and cross-culture exchanges. ‘Left Unsaid’ premiered in Hong Kong in November last year and has received enthusiastic reception. The Kuala Lumpur stop marks its first overseas performance, and next week it will take part in the 5th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Chinese Theatre Cultural Festival in Guangzhou, further promoting regional cultural exchange,” she said.

         Miss Cheng added that the HKETO Jakarta will continue to support Hong Kong performing arts groups and local cultural and creative industries in showcasing their work on the international stage, with a view to exploring wider development opportunities.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DHSC appoints business leaders to manage strategic suppliers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    DHSC appoints business leaders to manage strategic suppliers

    Four experienced executive business leaders have been appointed to strengthen partnerships with strategic suppliers to health.

    Four experienced executive business leaders have been appointed to strengthen partnerships with strategic suppliers to health.

    The four Health Crown Representatives will support the implementation of a new National Strategic Supplier Relationship Management (SSRM) programme, with 15 strategic suppliers.

    The National SSRM programme is a joint undertaking between DHSC, NHS England and Cabinet Office and aims to use the NHS’s significant scale and influence to strengthen partnerships with the most strategic suppliers to deliver additional value and unlock opportunities.

    This programme represents a shift in the collaboration with suppliers across health organisations and supports the government’s mission objectives in healthcare and economic growth.

    Health Minister Karin Smyth said:

    “Our healthcare system can’t function without its suppliers. They play critical role in driving innovation, ensuring better value for taxpayers and putting more money in people’s pockets through long-term growth. The new Health Crown Representatives bring a wealth of experience from the private sector to the table, and they will help us work with our strategic suppliers in the best way.

    “As we bring forward our 10-year health plan, aligning the government’s objectives with our suppliers’ capabilities and innovations will be crucial to deliver the NHS fit for the future that we all want to see.”

    Building on the success of Crown Representatives across government, four part-time dedicated Health Crown Representatives have been recruited to work directly with the health strategic suppliers. Crown Representatives act as a conduit between government and the most strategic suppliers, supporting with challenges, opportunities and risks.

    The four new Health Crown Representatives are:

    Deb Steane

    Deb is an accomplished executive with 27 years of leadership experience in the MedTech sector at Johnson & Johnson, where she held a range of executive, statutory director, and board-level roles. She has led a global drug-device business, driving commercial growth across international markets while spearheading global supply chain strategies to support business expansion and ensure operational resilience. Deb has also worked closely with healthcare systems and suppliers to foster innovation, developing new services and solutions that add value across the healthcare ecosystem.

    A passionate advocate for the UK Life Sciences sector, Deb has led government-backed initiatives focused on skills development and apprenticeships and played a key role in securing investments in UK manufacturing and R&D. She also served for seven years as a trustee director of a major UK pension fund. Before her corporate career, Deb spent 10 years in the NHS as a medical microbiologist, working as part of the Pathology team at Bradford Royal Infirmary.

    Keith Nurcombe

    Keith has had a 30-year executive career in healthcare. He has played a key role in supporting and delivering NHS services, including founding Doctorlink in 2016 to enhance primary care. Specialising in digital transformation, Keith has led initiatives such as the roll-out of Shared Care Record systems and, more recently, Electronic Patient Record (EPR) programs within the NHS.

    He serves as a non-executive director for Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Trust, Humber Teaching Hospital NHS, and WM5G, part of the Combined Authority in the West Midlands. He is also the chair of The Avalon Group, which supports individuals with learning disabilities across Yorkshire and the North. More recently, he was appointed chair of Derbyshire Health United, a Community Interest Company (CIC) that delivers 111 and urgent and emergency care (UEC) services across the Midlands and Home Counties on behalf of the NHS.

    Oliver Cofler

    With an engineering background, Oliver began his career in manufacturing before moving into consultancy with PwC, where he worked across manufacturing, IT, and supply chain. In 2003, he joined Cadbury Schweppes, taking on various supply chain leadership roles across Europe before becoming Supply Chain Director for the UK, Ireland, and Nordics.

    He later held senior operational leadership positions at Alliance Healthcare and Millbrook Healthcare and has served in non-executive roles, including at the British Healthcare Trade Association and as Chair of the Bath and Wells Multi Academy Schools Trust. Oliver is currently a non-executive director at South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust.

    Paul Richards

    Paul has built a successful career in international healthcare, bringing extensive experience in global board leadership, strategic partnerships, and commercial initiatives with both suppliers and customers. He has led businesses across healthcare, life sciences, health technology, and digital transformation, driving innovation and sustainable growth. Skilled in product and service development, Paul has played a key role in fostering international adoption and forging long term partnerships across industries, sectors, and geographies.

    He serves as a non-executive director and senior independent director at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, providing strategic guidance to improve outcomes. He also chairs the One Devon NHS EPR Implementation Board, leading collaboration across three NHS Trusts to advance digital transformation. Beyond healthcare, Paul is the Chair of the Board of Trustees for a charity dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse.

    15 strategic suppliers

    Following a comprehensive process to identify the most strategic suppliers to health, the NHS, DHSC and wider Health Family will work collaboratively with the 15 strategic suppliers to develop joint strategies that will deliver additional value, unlock opportunities and manage risks.

    The 15 strategic suppliers included in the programme are:

    • Abbott
    • AstraZeneca
    • Circle Health Group
    • GSK
    • ISS*
    • Johnson & Johnson
    • Olympus Keymed
    • Optum (formerly EMIS)
    • Medtronic
    • Pfizer
    • Roche
    • Sandoz
    • Sodexo*
    • Spire Healthcare
    • Teva

    *ISS and Sodexo will retain their Cabinet Office Crown Representatives but are also strategic to health

    Background on Cabinet Office Crown Representatives programme 

    The Cabinet Office introduced the ‘Crown Representative’ network to act as a focal point for particular groups of providers looking to supply to the public sector.

    Crown Representatives help the government to act as a single customer. They work across departments to:

    · ensure a single and strategic view of the government’s needs is communicated to the market.

    · identify areas for cost savings.

    · act as a point of focus for cross-cutting supplier-related issues.

    Find more information about Crown Representatives and the strategic suppliers they work with.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Best Sugar Baby Websites [2025] Top Sugar Daddy Sites for Sugar Babies And Sugar Daddies to Meet!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, Nevada, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Find the best sugar baby websites and top-rated sugar daddy sites trusted by millions of attractive sugar babies and affluent sugar daddies to connect safely, chat instantly, and meet on your terms.

    Las Vegas, Nevada, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Sugar dating is becoming more mainstream and sophisticated than ever before. More young women and ambitious individuals are turning to sugar baby websites to build meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships with generous benefactors. These platforms, ranging from full-featured websites to mobile-friendly sugar baby apps, make it easier to find compatibility, luxury, and opportunity all in one.

    ⇒ Why Wait? Trusted, safe, and elegant – the best sugar baby site awaits!

    Whether you’re new to the scene or looking for better options, knowing which sugar baby websites are trustworthy and effective can make all the difference. In this guide, we explore how to identify the best platforms, what features to look for, and why even free sugar baby sites can sometimes offer surprising value.

    Among all the platforms available, SugarDaddy.com stands out as the best sugar daddy website with free access, offering unmatched features, verified profiles, and a safe space for sugar babies and sugar daddies alike.

    ⇒ Don’t miss your chance to meet real sugar daddies and babies – join free now!

    What Are Sugar Baby Websites?

    Sugar baby websites are online platforms where younger individuals, often college students, entrepreneurs, or lifestyle seekers, connect with financially successful and often older partners, commonly referred to as sugar daddies or sugar mommies.

    These relationships are built on open communication and mutual benefit, which may include financial support, mentorship, travel, and luxury experiences in exchange for companionship, attention, or emotional connection.

    Unlike typical dating platforms, sugar baby sites are designed with these unique expectations in mind, offering more structured and transparent arrangements.

    ⇒ Get VIP access to the best free sugar baby site – sign up now!

    Why Sugar Baby Sites Are More Popular Than Ever

    Sugar dating isn’t new, but in 2025 it’s more normalized than ever. Here’s why more sugar babies and benefactors are turning to sugar baby websites:

    • Economic Pressures: With rising tuition and living costs, many young adults are turning to sugar dating to support their goals.
    • Empowerment: Sugar babies have more control over the kind of relationships they want, setting their terms from the start.
    • Convenience: Modern sugar baby sites offer safe, fast, and discreet ways to meet high-quality matches online.

    ⇒ Your sugar daddy is waiting – join the best sugar baby site today!

    What Makes the Best Sugar Baby Websites?

    With dozens of platforms out there, it’s crucial to distinguish between reputable sugar baby websites and low-quality or scammy ones. Here are the most important features to look for:

    1. User Verification

    The best sugar baby sites require ID or photo verification to ensure all users are real. This reduces fake profiles and improves trust.

    2. Safety & Privacy Tools

    Reliable sugar baby websites offer profile visibility settings, anonymous browsing, and tools to block or report users.

    ⇒ Start dating successful partners on the best free sugar baby website today!

    3. Advanced Matching Algorithms

    Modern platforms use intelligent match-making based on preferences, arrangement types, age, income, and lifestyle compatibility.

    4. Free Signup Options

    Some of the top free sugar baby websites and sugar daddy websites offer valuable features even without a paid membership. Look for platforms that allow browsing, messaging, or profile visibility for free users.

    5. Mobile Accessibility

    With mobile-first dating on the rise, the best sugar baby websites are responsive or offer dedicated apps for both iOS and Android.

    ⇒ Join the hottest sugar baby website of 2025 – it’s free and easy!

    The Role of Free Sugar Baby Websites and Apps

    A growing number of platforms now offer free sugar baby websites, which allow users to create accounts, browse profiles, and sometimes even message potential matches without paying.

    However, not all free sugar baby sites deliver quality. The best platforms offer a freemium model—free access to essential features with optional upgrades for premium tools.

    SugarDaddy.com offers one of the best free options on the market, giving new sugar babies an excellent opportunity to get started without financial commitment.

    ⇒ Discover premium sugar dating without premium costs – join free now!

    SugarDaddy.com: The Best Sugar Baby Website in 2025

    Among all sugar baby sites in 2025, SugarDaddy.com takes the crown. With a loyal user base, top-tier features, and a reputation for excellence, it’s no surprise that this site continues to lead the industry.

    What Makes SugarDaddy.com the Best Sugar Baby Site?

    Verified Profiles Only

    All users go through a verification process, ensuring sugar babies and daddies are who they say they are.

    Real Connections, Not Scams

    SugarDaddy.com has powerful anti-fraud systems in place to detect suspicious behavior and fake profiles.

    ⇒ Free to join, easy to connect – Try sugardaddy.com today!

    Elite User Base

    The platform attracts serious benefactors and high-quality sugar babies. Many members are professionals, entrepreneurs, and influencers looking for real, respectful relationships.

    Powerful Search and Match Tools

    You can filter by income, age, appearance, location, lifestyle goals, and more to find the perfect match.

    Free Sugar Baby Website Access

    While premium features are available, SugarDaddy.com gives new users free access to create a profile, explore members, and begin connecting.

    Excellent Mobile Experience

    The mobile version of SugarDaddy.com functions like a smooth sugar baby app, ideal for users on the go.

    ⇒ Trusted by millions, sugardaddy.com is the #1 sugar baby site!

    Safety Tips for Sugar Baby Sites and Apps

    Even on trustworthy sugar baby websites like SugarDaddy.com, it’s essential to prioritize your safety:

    • Don’t Share Personal Info Too Soon
    • Always Meet in Public for the First Time
    • Use the Site’s Messaging System
    • Report Suspicious Users
    • Block Users Who Make You Uncomfortable

    SugarDaddy.com makes it easy to report or block anyone, giving you full control over your interactions.

    ⇒ Want the best sugar dating experience? Try sugardaddy.com today!

    How to Succeed on Sugar Baby Sites

    If you want to stand out and make the most of your sugar dating experience, follow these tips when using sugar baby websites:

    Optimize Your Profile

    Use high-quality photos and write a compelling, honest bio. Show off your personality and clearly state your expectations.

    Be Upfront About Your Goals

    Transparency helps both parties determine if the relationship is a fit. Be confident in what you’re looking for—whether it’s mentorship, support, companionship, or lifestyle upgrades.

    Stay Active

    Frequent activity increases your profile’s visibility on most sugar baby sites. Respond to messages promptly and keep your profile fresh.

    ⇒ Find your perfect arrangement today on the best free sugar baby site!

    Practice Online Safety

    Even on the best platforms, it’s important to:

    • Use in-platform messaging
    • Avoid sharing personal contact info early on
    • Verify profiles before meeting
    • Meet in public spaces first

    ⇒ Connect now with real sugar babies and daddies – it’s free to start!

    Top Benefits of Using Sugar Baby Websites in 2025

    Still wondering if sugar baby websites are right for you? Here are the benefits that keep users coming back:

    1. Financial Empowerment – Sugar babies can receive financial support for education, lifestyle, or goals.
    2. Emotional Fulfillment – Many sugar babies enjoy attention, support, and even romantic partnerships.
    3. Luxury Opportunities – Travel, fine dining, and upscale experiences are common in sugar dating.
    4. Mentorship & Guidance – Benefactors often provide life and career mentorship.

    Keep reading to learn how sugar baby websites work, how to find a sugar baby, and what makes these sites so effective when done right.

    ⇒ Elite sugar dating starts here – click to join the best sugar baby site!

    What Is a Sugar Baby?

    The sugar baby is normally younger and engages in a relationship with an older, more financially successful partner. Such relationships are founded on respect, clarity, and reciprocal terms. It is mostly the case that the sugar baby gets money, mentorship, or lifestyle benefits and, in turn, provides time, emotional connection, or companionship.

    Then, what is a sugar baby now? Not the kind who would ask for money. A modern sugar baby would be self-conscious, self-assured, and particular about company. It is about finding something where both parties know that they’re both contributing to and expecting something out of it.

    It is a matter of understanding the real definition of sugar baby beyond worn-out clichés. These are not unequal relationships. They are grounded in real connections established on honesty and equity.

    ⇒ Real people, real connections – join the best sugar baby website today!

    Why People Choose the Sugar Baby Lifestyle

    There are many reasons someone might choose to become a sugar baby. Some are students dealing with rising tuition costs. Others are entrepreneurs, creatives, or single parents who want more financial flexibility. A few are just tired of the stress that comes with traditional dating.

    One key motivation is mentorship. A sugar baby might be drawn to someone who has real-world experience and wisdom to share. On the flip side, sugar daddies and mommies often enjoy the energy, perspective, and companionship that younger partners bring to the relationship.

    Whether financial support or lifestyle upgrades, sugar baby dating arrangements are built on direct communication and shared goals.

    ⇒ Find elite sugar daddies on the best sugar baby site!

    Who Can Be a Sugar Baby?

    There’s no official mold for who qualifies as a sugar baby. While many are in their 20s or 30s, age isn’t the main factor. Confidence, emotional maturity, and strong communication matter far more. People from all backgrounds become sugar babies—artists, professionals, students, and even travelers looking to expand their horizons.

    How Sugar Baby Websites Help Foster Genuine Interactions

    These types of arrangements were harder to find in the past. These sugar baby websites and apps make it all easy and secure. These websites are designed for people searching for this type of arrangement and feature filters, privacy settings, and upfront profile elements where you can indicate exactly what you are looking for.

    Unlike casual dating sites, sugar baby sites attract people yearning for transparency. You’ll notice members dedicated to mutual respect and gain on a good sugar baby site—no games or confusion.

    One of the top sugar baby websites even has safety advice, verification processes, and built-in messaging systems to keep everything safe.

    ⇒ Meet your match, upgrade your life – all on the best sugar baby site!

    How to Become a Sugar Baby

    If you’re wondering how to become a sugar baby, it’s not as hard as you think. It starts by finding a good sugar baby website and making a genuine, appealing profile. Post some nice pictures, state your expectations, and be honest about what you have to offer and what you’re looking for.

    A proper sugar baby dating site allows you to connect with like-minded people. And once settled, the experience can be empowering. You dictate the boundaries, pace, and expectations.

    So, if you’re interested or even half-serious about a sugar lifestyle, here’s the thing: there’s nothing wrong with knowing your worth and choosing a relationship that fits into your life.

    ⇒ Meet generous singles on the best free sugar baby website!

    Understanding Sugar Baby Websites

    If you’ve wondered about sugar dating, you’ve probably heard of sugar baby websites. These sites aim to match sugar babies—people searching for lifestyle assistance, mentorship, or true companionship—with successful individuals open to offering money, experience, and something honest in exchange.

    Unlike conventional dating sites, sugar baby websites are based on open communication and honest intentions. There is no beating around the bush. Both parties are open about their intentions from the beginning, which leads to more solid, respectful relationships.

    ⇒ Want results? Use the best sugar baby websites trusted by millions!

    What Are Sugar Baby Sites All About?

    A sugar baby site is not your average dating site. The sites are designed to cater to mutually beneficial arrangements. Sugar babies usually provide companionship, emotional support, or even good conversation. Their partners, in return, might provide financial support, gifts, career guidance, or access to a better lifestyle.

    What is so refreshing about these sites is that they are so open about the transaction. There’s no expectation of fitting into old dating norms or games of guessing. Individuals join these communities because they want adult discussions regarding what they need and can give.

    The best sugar baby websites provide a more streamlined opportunity to meet like-minded individuals willing to accept this arrangement. There’s a huge range of users, from students and entrepreneurs to established professionals, but everyone is looking for a real partnership with clear objectives.

    ⇒ No fake profiles – just real matches on the best sugar baby site!

    The Core Principles: Privacy, Consent, and Clarity

    One of the greatest advantages of sugar baby dating websites is how they emphasize privacy and respect. Users control how much information about themselves is made available, who can reach out to them, and how they want to be contacted.

    These platforms take consent seriously. Every step in the relationship-building process is based on mutual agreement. No assumptions. No blurred lines. Just clear communication from start to finish.

    Individuals who are interested in this kind of relationship enjoy the boundaries and individual autonomy that sugar baby websites enable. You establish the parameters, set your requirements, and connect with individuals who accept your lifestyle. This method contributes to safer, more comfortable experiences for all parties involved.

    ⇒ sugardaddy.com is the #1 sugar baby site – try it for free today!

    How Sugar Baby Sites Differ From Traditional Dating Apps

    The difference between sugar baby sites and other dating sites is honesty and format. Traditional dating is always a guessing game. What are they looking for? Serious or casual? Will they be honest about what they want?

    All of those questions have been answered on a sugar baby website. Every person on the site knows they’re there and why and what type of arrangement they’re seeking. That mutual understanding eliminates the guesswork that too often accompanies conventional dating apps.

    The second main difference is in user intent. Most users of sugar baby sites aren’t here to fool around. They’re direct, normally successful, and anticipatory. That applies to sugar babies as well—they’re confident, educated, and clear about the type of life they’d wish to live.

    Thanks to this framework, sugar baby websites are respectful and safe environments. As moderation and privacy are integrated, members can communicate without worrying about harassment or misinterpretation.

    ⇒ Don’t miss your chance to meet real sugar daddies – join free now!

    Why More Individuals Are Relying on Sugar Baby Sites in 2025

    As attitudes toward relationships and dating evolve, increasing numbers of individuals look for relationships that are clear-cut and rewarding. The growth of sugar baby websites is indicative of a trend for what individuals desire—greater openness, choice, and less judgment.

    As public perception shifts, so does the popularity of the sugar lifestyle. People embrace the idea that there’s more than one method of forming meaningful connections. Sugar baby websites provide the venue for people looking for more customized, upfront relationships, with often long-lasting impact.

    Looking to experiment with something different or prepared to fully embrace the sugar lifestyle, the correct website can help open the door.

    ⇒ Try the sugar baby site that actually works – sugardaddy.com is live!

    How to Find a Sugar Baby

    Finding the ideal sugar baby is not about appearance or luxury but compatibility, integrity, and shared expectations. Most sugar mommies and daddies these days begin browsing through sugar baby websites, but offline encounters are still part of the package. Let’s break down finding a sugar baby online and offline.

    ⇒ Find serious sugar daddies on the best sugar baby sites online now!

    Steps to Find a Sugar Baby Online

    Finding a sugar baby online is easier than ever before, with numerous websites popping up that connect like-minded adults. But blind diving can lead to missed opportunities or miscommunications. Here’s how to do it the right way—step by step.

    1. Select a Reputable Sugar Baby Website

    Start by selecting a credible platform. The best sugar baby websites are designed with transparency, privacy, and user safety in mind. A good sugar baby site will offer you active profiles, filters to narrow down your options, and communication tools.

    Avoid general dating sites that aren’t meant for sugar dating. Look for sites specifically created for that kind of arrangement instead. Sites created for the sugar lifestyle attract more serious and respectful people.

    ⇒ Why settle? Join the best free sugar baby website for real rewards!

    2. Create an Honest and Appealing Profile

    Once you have chosen the right sugar baby website, take the time to develop your profile. It is your first impression. Upload a recent, good-quality photo and include a short but honest description of yourself and what you are looking for.

    Be clear about expectations. Sugar babies like someone who knows their boundaries and speaks up sooner rather than later. Being upfront also attracts people whose goals are aligned with yours.

    3. Apply Filters and Read Profiles Carefully

    Most sugar baby sites offer search functions to filter your options. Set preferences based on age, location, lifestyle, and interests. Read each profile carefully. Look for consistency in photographs, grammar, and tone—it is most likely an indication of a person serious about their profile on the site.

    4. Start Conversations with Respect and Sincerity

    When reaching out, skip the generic greetings. Be polite and personalized. Ask questions that show you have read their profile and be inquisitive. Be professional and never rush the conversation.

    A good start leads to more matches. Most people on sugar baby dating sites are looking for more than small talk—they desire connection, respect, and understanding.

    ⇒ Don’t pay to connect – the best sugar baby site lets you chat for free!

    5. Set Expectations Early

    Before anything progresses, discuss what you’re both looking for. This is the key to any successful sugar baby dating arrangement. Defining roles, boundaries, and desires upfront helps avoid confusion later.

    Be specific about your boundaries and what you’re providing. The most successful connections are made through openness and respect for one another—two cornerstones that characterize contemporary sugar dating. When both parties understand what they can expect, things usually go more smoothly and last longer.

    ⇒ The best sugar baby site is trending – don’t get left behind!

    How to Build the Perfect Sugar Baby Profile

    Creating a great profile on sugar baby sites like SugarDaddy.com can make or break your success. Here’s how to do it right:

    • Use Real, High-Quality Photos: Avoid heavy filters. Authenticity attracts more genuine offers.
    • Describe What You Want: Be upfront about your ideal arrangement and lifestyle expectations.
    • Highlight Personality and Interests: Talk about your hobbies, career goals, and values.
    • Stay Active: Update your profile regularly and log in often to show you’re engaged.

    A good sugar baby website facilitates finding matches that are present for the sake of everything, not just money. Be realistic in your expectations, and find someone who brings you true value, not merely a person searching for a free ride.

    ⇒ Click here to find real success on the best sugar baby website!

    Benefits of Sugar Baby Sites

    Sugar baby sites are designed to enable actual relationships between people who have common goals, and they do this with convenience and discretion in mind.

    Let us take a closer glance at why using sugar baby sites is typically the most secure and smartest choice.

    1. Clearly Defined Format for Meaningful Dating

    Unlike traditional apps where a lot is left to assumption, sugar baby websites offer a platform where people are open about what they require. There is no speculation or concealed agendas. Profiles typically contain open statements of expectations, lifestyle, and what the person wants to gain in the relationship. This arrangement spares both sugar daddies and sugar babies from time-wasting relationships.

    Some sites even permit people to select their preferred arrangement type—mentorship, companionship, travel, or financial support. This openness is especially useful for those wondering how to be a sugar baby or how to locate someone who truly understands the lifestyle.

    ⇒ Find what you’re looking for on the best sugar baby websites – join free!

    2. Enhanced Safety and Privacy

    Privacy is a big concern for most in the sugar baby dating scene. The best websites take this seriously. Top sugar baby websites use encryption, discreet billing, and internal messaging systems so that users are not required to divulge personal information right away.

    Some even provide reporting tools, profile verification, and photo screening to reduce scams or fake profiles. That kind of online protection is hard to come by outside the niche world of sugar baby dating sites.

    3. Better Screening and Matchmaking

    Not every match will be a connection—and that’s okay. But filtering options on most sugar baby websites get you one step closer to what you’re looking for. You can filter based on age, location, lifestyle habits, and more.

    This is a big reason why most consider these to be the best sugar baby websites—they eliminate the guessing and make it easier.

    ⇒ The best free sugar baby website is just one step away – join free!

    4. Tools of Working Communication

    Most sugar baby sites have instant messaging features, icebreakers, and filters for chat. These allow you to build more respectful, meaningful conversations from the start. They also allow you to control the pace, especially when you’re exploring the possibility of a sugar relationship.

    5. Lifestyle Compatibility

    These websites appeal to a broad audience: young professionals, students, entrepreneurs, travelers, and retirees. Regardless of where you are in life, you can locate someone whose pace and ambitions match yours.

    Some of those sites let you connect to social profiles and interests or share your ideal date with us, making it more enjoyable and intimate to find a match.

    ⇒ Join the sugar baby site everyone’s talking about – it’s 100% free!

    Sugar Baby Etiquette and Best Practices

    Navigating the space comes with its own set of social expectations. Those who understand and respect the etiquette involved in sugar dating tend to build longer-lasting, drama-free arrangements. Whether you’re new to the scene or looking to refine your approach, a few best practices go a long way when using sugar baby sites or meeting someone in person.

    Start With Respect and Honesty

    The foundation of any successful sugar baby dating connection is mutual respect. This begins with being honest about your intentions. If you’re looking for companionship, mentorship, or a financial arrangement, state it clearly—but respectfully.

    People on sugar baby websites are quite open about what they desire, so there is no use beating around the bush. Respect for the other person’s time and boundaries is a simple yet often overlooked sign of class and seriousness.

    ⇒ This is where sugar babies and daddies connect – join now!

    Communicate Clearly and Consistently

    Open communication sets expectations and keeps misunderstandings at bay. Once you’ve connected on a sugar baby site, make the first move to discuss what you want and listen to what they want. Clearly define boundaries from the start: how often you will meet, what relationship is convenient for both of you, and how you will communicate.

    If something does, tell them. This sort of honesty is what will differentiate a considerate partner from someone who just wants to exploit the arrangement.

    Be Considerate With Gifts and Compensation

    Gift-giving is generally a component of sugar dating, but it should never be coerced or come off as a transaction. It isn’t about showing off—it’s about appreciation. Give thoughtful gifts that apply to your sugar baby’s aspirations or hobbies. Some will enjoy designer gifts, while others will appreciate tuition help or the ability to travel.

    Sugar baby websites can help set the tone for those expectations because most websites allow users to specify what they are willing to accept. That openness saves confusion or embarrassment later.

    ⇒ Want luxury and love? Start with the best sugar baby websites here!

    Always Prioritize Consent

    Consent is not just physical boundaries. It’s emotional and financial boundaries, too. If you’re offering support or expecting certain things in return, those terms must be discussed and mutually agreed upon—never assumed. Healthy sugar baby dating starts and ends with enthusiastic, ongoing consent.

    Stay Wary of and Avoid Scams

    As with all online interactions, it’s best to stay cautious on sugar baby dating sites. Be cautious of members who ask for money first, avoid video chat, or refuse to meet in public. A reputable sugar baby website will have reporting features for suspicious behavior—don’t be afraid to use them if something doesn’t feel quite right.

    Go with your gut and do not be hasty. Scammers oftentimes rely on urgency and emotional manipulation, and ongoing open communication keeps you secure.

    ⇒ Find elite sugar daddies on the best sugar baby site!

    Final Thought

    Choosing the right platform can make all the difference in your sugar dating experience. With so many sugar baby websites and sugar baby sites online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the best outcomes come from using a verified, secure, and transparent sugar baby website—one that values consent, communication, and connection.

    A quality sugar baby site goes beyond flashy designs and bold promises. It provides safety features, identity verification, privacy options, and filtering tools to help users find real compatibility. These aren’t just platforms—they’re spaces where clear expectations, respectful conversations, and mature arrangements can thrive.

    The best sugar baby websites attract people who are serious about the lifestyle. This includes both experienced sugar babies and those still learning how to become a sugar baby. From profile design to personalized matches, a trusted site supports your goals without compromising safety or authenticity.

    For anyone exploring this lifestyle seriously, choosing the right sugar babies website isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

    FAQs

    This FAQ section addresses the most common questions about sugar baby sites, including details on free sugar baby websites, safety, and what makes a site the best.

    What are sugar baby websites?

    Sugar baby websites are platforms where individuals can find mutually beneficial relationships involving companionship and lifestyle support.

    What’s the best sugar baby site in 2025?

    SugarDaddy.com is considered the best sugar baby site in 2025 due to its safety features, verified profiles, and high-quality user base.

    Are sugar baby sites legal?

    Yes, sugar baby sites are fully legal and function within the bounds of consensual adult relationships.

    Can I join sugar baby sites for free?

    Yes, free sugar baby websites like SugarDaddy.com allow users to sign up and use basic features without cost.

    Is SugarDaddy.com a real sugar baby website?

    Absolutely. SugarDaddy.com is one of the most reputable sugar baby sites in the world.

    Are there legit free sugar baby websites?

    While many claim to be free, SugarDaddy.com is one of the few legitimate platforms offering functional free access.

    How do sugar baby apps work?

    Sugar baby apps are mobile-optimized versions of dating platforms that let users message, browse, and match on their phones.

    How do I stay safe on sugar baby websites?

    Use the platform’s messaging system, don’t share financial info, and always meet in public places.

    What should I write in my sugar baby profile?

    Include your lifestyle preferences, relationship expectations, and a few personal interests to stand out.

    Is SugarDaddy.com good for beginners?

    Yes, SugarDaddy.com is beginner-friendly and provides tools and guidance for new users.

    Can I use SugarDaddy.com without paying?

    Yes, the site offers a free tier that includes essential features like profile browsing and messaging.

    Are sugar baby relationships real relationships?

    Yes, many sugar relationships lead to lasting emotional connections and long-term arrangements.

    How old do you have to be to join sugar baby sites?

    You must be 18 years or older to use sugar baby websites like SugarDaddy.com.

    Do sugar baby apps offer real matches?

    Yes, especially on vetted platforms like SugarDaddy.com, where verified users are active and engaged.

    What is the difference between sugar dating and traditional dating?

    Sugar dating is based on clear, upfront expectations involving support and companionship, unlike traditional romance-based dating.

    Are sugar baby websites safe for women?

    Yes, when using trusted platforms like SugarDaddy.com that provide safety features and verification tools.

    Can I find international sugar daddies on sugar baby websites?

    Yes, SugarDaddy.com allows international connections across various countries and cities.

    What is expected from sugar babies?

    Clear communication, companionship, and respect are the most commonly expected attributes in sugar relationships.

    Is SugarDaddy.com a sugar baby app?

    While not a standalone app, SugarDaddy.com offers full mobile functionality that works like an app.

    Can I remain anonymous on sugar baby websites?

    Yes, SugarDaddy.com provides privacy settings to control what others see on your profile.

    Media Contact

    Company: Sugar Daddy

    Contact Person: Christopher A. Waldo

    Email: support@sugardaddy.com

    Address: 29 Roseburn Place, Highland Park, Manukau 2010, New Zealand

    URL: https://www.sugardaddy.com/

    Phone: +64-29-4659-632

    Content Accuracy Disclaimer
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    It is the responsibility of the reader to verify product information directly through the official website or manufacturer prior to making a purchasing decision. Any reliance placed on the information in this article is done strictly at your own risk.
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    The publisher only promotes products that have been independently evaluated and deemed potentially beneficial to readers. However, this compensation may influence the content, topics, or products discussed in this article. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliate partner or product provider.
    All product reviews and descriptions reflect the author’s honest opinion based on available public data, user feedback, and scientific references at the time of writing. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence the objectivity or integrity of the content. However, readers are encouraged to independently verify product information and consult with healthcare professionals prior to purchase or use.
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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to the debate on hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken, following the announcement of a UK-US trade deal.

    Beef

    Prof Chris Elliott, Chair of Food Safety, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), said:

    “There are a number of hormones, mainly anabolic steroids that are classified as growth promoters. They were banned in the EU back in the 1980’s on the grounds they were a food safety risk. This has been hotly disputed by the US and other countries that use the hormones in livestock production.

    “The bulk of the scientific evidence suggests they are safe if used correctly. However incorrect use (as can happen accidently or deliberately) could pose health issues.  

    “The big issue is that use of such hormones is not ‘natural’ – but again this is widely disputed as livestock have many things added to their diets to enhance growth rates.

    “Testing for the presence of the hormones can be done but it’s extremely difficult and requires very expensive equipment and the cost per test would runs into many hundreds of pounds. There has previously been evidence that meat claimed as ‘hormone free’ was in fact treated with anabolic steroids.”

     

    Chicken

    Prof Paul Wigley, Professor in Animal Microbial Ecosystems, University of Bristol, said:

    “The use of high-concentration chlorine washes applied in the USA and other countries is adopted as a relatively simple and low-cost method to reduce foodborne bacterial pathogens such as Salmonella from chicken carcasses. Its efficacy is questionable. Rates of human Salmonella infection in the USA are around double the European average and around five times greater than in the UK.

    “The UK approach is to control on the farm with the use of vaccines, good biosecurity and hygiene together with regular testing for Salmonella, accompanied by far greater levels of animal welfare that were set down by EU legislation and still adopted in the UK.  Salmonella is in effect eradicated in UK Lion Mark eggs and is uncommon in UK-produced poultry meat.

    “An analogy is going out for a walk as seeing a pile of dog muck. The UK/EU approach is to avoid getting it on your shoes. The American approach is wiping it off when you get home but we all know that some will remain trapped in the tread.

    “The ban on US produced chicken on public health grounds is justified when simply looking at the figures of public health impact. Human Salmonella infection often leads to hospitalisation and most recent figures indicate there were 33 deaths resulting from Salmonella in the UK in 2013. We cannot ban on welfare grounds but there is a clear public health reason to do so.”

     

    Beef and chicken

    Prof Guy Poppy, PVC Research and Innovation, University of Bristol, said:

    On chlorine-washed chicken:

    “The use of chlorine washes to ensure chickens are safe to eat is a difference between how the USA and the EU/UK regulate food.  The USA uses product-based approach while the EU and UK use a process-based one – i.e. consideration of the process we use to ensure safety rather than the end outcome. If done correctly the end product, chicken, is equally safe, but the system we currently use involves several steps in how chickens are produced throughout the rearing and preparation of the chicken for sale – as opposed to the USA system which uses chlorine to ‘disinfect’ the chicken prior to retail.  Both systems are used to reduce/eliminate the number of microorganisms in the chicken which can make us ill.

    “Many of the biosecurity processes used in the UK can also enhance welfare, such as practices to reduce the levels of pathogens in chickens – as opposed to being reliant on a system of using chlorine to reduce the pathogens after slaughter.”

     

    On hormone-treated beef:

    “There are significant disagreements between the EU and the US on the health issues of hormone treated beef. Whilst the EU claim that one of the regularly used hormones is carcinogenic,  the US and Canada claim to the WTO that the EU risk assessment is flawed. And several of the hormones used do not have any health claims against them. However, the rearing practice which is involved in accelerating growth can be seen as an animal welfare issue as weight gain and the feedlots and other practices to reduce feed requirements and accelerate growth result in much lower animal welfare than rearing systems not involving hormones or feedlots.

    “Both of these types of animal food production illustrate different rearing systems and methods to control risk. If done correctly and with checks in place, they both result in a safe product but there are differences in the animal welfare outcomes of the production systems used in the US compared to the UK/EU. The US style production systems can lead to reduced costs and increased profits and thus I can see why UK farmers are concerned about the effects this may have on the current UK meat system. It is clear that the current UK food system needs transforming to improve human and environmental health, but I am not sure this is a direction of travel which will help that.”

     

     

     

    Declared interests

    Paul Wigley: I have and continue to receive funding from UKRI around this area but no current or recent work with industry in these areas

    Chris Elliott: No interests to declare

    Guy Poppy: CSA at the FSA 2014-2020, Exec Chair at BBSRC 2023-2024

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Another boost for British car industry as £1 billion secured for new Sunderland gigafactory

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Another boost for British car industry as £1 billion secured for new Sunderland gigafactory

    New state-of-the-art gigafactory ignites growth in industrial heartlands, supporting 1,000 jobs and powering up 100,000 electric vehicles a year

    • Chancellor visited Sunderland today following landmark economic deal with the US that saved thousands of auto jobs and slashed tariffs on car exports
    • Latest action in the Government’s Plan for Change to strengthen our industrial heartlands, make Britain a clean energy superpower and put more money in people’s pockets through good jobs

    Working people will benefit from 1,000 jobs at a new state-of-the-art gigafactory in Sunderland in a £1 billion auto deal to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and boost growth.

    This investment is another boost for the British car industry after yesterday’s landmark economic deal with the United States saved thousands of jobs by slashing tariffs on British exports.

    The new AESC gigafactory will manufacture batteries for electric vehicles, powering up to 100,000 EVs each year – a six-fold increase on the country’s current capacity – making the UK globally competitive selling more British EVs at home and abroad and helping to achieve our net zero target.

    In the landmark transaction, the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance will provide financial guarantees which unlock £680 million in financing from banks including Standard Chartered, HSBC, SMBC Group, Societe Generale and BBVA. This will cover construction and operation of the new plant. The remaining £320 million has been secured through private financing in addition to new equity provided by AESC.

    In addition to this £1 billion investment, the Government’s Automotive Transformation Fund is also investing £150 million in grant funding.

    This is the Government’s Plan for Change in action, making us more competitive on the world stage, helping Britain on its way to becoming a clean energy superpower through innovation in the automotive sector, and delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets through high skilled jobs.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    We are going further and faster to boost our industries’ resilience and encourage their growth as part of our Plan for Change, and this investment follows hot on the heels of yesterday’s landmark economic deal with the US which will save thousands of jobs in the industry.

    This investment in Sunderland will not only further innovation and accelerate our move to more sustainable transport, but it will also deliver much-needed high quality, well-paid jobs to the North East, putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said:

    We’re backing our world-class car industry, and this investment is yet another vote of confidence in the North East’s thriving auto manufacturing hub which will secure a thousand well-paid jobs and boost prosperity across the region.

    Our modern Industrial Strategy will drive this growth even further, powering our high-potential sectors like advanced manufacturing so we can deliver jobs and investment in every corner of the UK and make our Plan for Change a reality.

    The Chancellor visited AESC in Sunderland today (Friday 9 May) where she met staff and local leaders to discuss how the investment will bring jobs and prosperity to the North East, and how the landmark economic deal secured with the US will secure the industry for years to come.

    The deal slashes car export tariffs from 27.5% to 10% and will apply to a quota of 100,000 UK cars – almost the total exported last year.

    This will save some car companies hundreds of millions of pounds, making high skilled jobs in industrial heartlands like Sunderland more secure.

    Shoichi Matsumoto, CEO of Japanese headquartered AESC, said:

    This investment marks a key milestone in AESC’s ongoing efforts to support the UK’s path towards decarbonisation and the expansion of its EV market.

    Through close collaboration with strategic partners, we strive to accelerate this transition while creating high-quality local jobs and building resilient, sustainable supply chain.

    We are honoured to contribute to the development of low-carbon economy with our advanced battery technologies.

    John Flint, National Wealth Fund CEO, said:

    AESC’s gigafactory will not only help to retool our car industry for net zero it will also support jobs, growth, and prosperity in the Northeast.

    This investment further demonstrates the significant role NWF is playing to crowd private capital into the industries and regions where its most needed, boosting government’s growth and clean energy missions.

    UKEF CEO, Tim Reid, said:

    This hugely exciting project is a prime example of how export financing is a powerful tool for unlocking growth opportunities for British exporters and strengthening local economies.

    We’re proud to join forces with partners to back this pioneering gigafactory that will help cement the UK’s prowess as an EV battery-making force for years to come.

    More information

    • The government continues to unlock private investment in UK automotive design, development, and manufacturing as the sector transitions to zero emission technology.
    • To date, the Automotive Transformation Fund and Advanced Propulsion Centre funding programmes have leveraged over £6 billion of investment from the private sector.
    • Last year’s Autumn Budget also confirmed over £2 billion for capital and research and development funding over five years for zero emission vehicle manufacturing and their supply chains – a vote of confidence in the UK’s automotive industry, supporting investment and productivity growth.

    Additional quotes

    Ian Stuart, UK CEO for HSBC who were joint ECA Coordinator & Structuring Bank (alongside SCB) as well as Underwriting Bank and Mandated Lead Arranger, said:

    We’re extremely proud to have played a leading role in this complex and significant deal, including as underwriter, structuring bank and joint ECA co-ordinator.

    Once operational, the gigafactory will unlock a huge increase in the UK’s EV battery production, supporting the electrification of vehicles and the wider green transition. The inward investment involved in the project will also deliver highly-skilled jobs and economic growth to North East England.

    Hideo Kawafune, CEO, Head of EMEA, SMBC Banking International plc said:

    SMBC Group is delighted to participate in the successful financing of this landmark Gigafactory project. As a lending partner we’re proud to work alongside partners such as National Wealth Fund, UK Export Finance and Sinosure, as well as existing client AESC, in order to support projects which power the energy transition.” 

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

    We are proud to support this transformative UK project. The development of AESC’s new gigafactory will deliver significant economic benefits locally while supporting the development of zero-emission technology. This is more than an investment in infrastructure, it’s a commitment to innovation, UK economic growth and sustainability. Supporting the transition to net zero is deeply embedded in how we operate as a Bank, and this project reflects how we bring that to life by supporting clients on their own sustainability journeys.

    Lenaig Trenaux, Societe Generale’s Global Head of Batteries, Mining and Industries, said:

    We are proud to have worked with AESC to deliver the first gigafactory project financing in the UK, which has benefitted from strong support from the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance.

    Societe Generale’s deep understanding of the EV value chain, coupled with our experience working with AESC, were instrumental in delivering the project financing.

    This is another demonstration of SG’s commitment to the green mobility and another step towards the energy transition.

    Beatriz Roa, Global Sectoral Head of Industrials at BBVA, states:

    BBVA is proudly supporting AESC in this landmark project in the UK. This gigafactory will help foster the transition to electric vehicles while supporting the buildup of an entire ecosystem around battery manufacturing in Sunderland. These are key objectives in BBVA’s efforts to support the transition to a more sustainable economy and to the auto and energy industries in particular.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Russia pledge to join forces against bullying, power politics

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

    MOSCOW, May 9 — China will work with Russia to shoulder the special responsibilities entrusted by the times, Chinese President Xi Jinping told his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, during their talks here on Thursday, as global uncertainties are exerting more pressure on the global economy.

    Today, in the face of unilateralist countercurrents, bullying and acts of power politics, China is working with Russia to shoulder the special responsibilities of major countries and permanent members of the UN Security Council, Xi said.

    Putin, for his part, criticized the imposition of high tariffs, saying it defies common sense, has no legal basis, and will only backfire.

    In early April, the United States rolled out so-called “reciprocal” tariffs against almost all of its trading partners worldwide, triggering widespread opposition and concerns over a possible global economic recession. Many countries have vowed to retaliate.

    On Thursday, the European Commission launched a public consultation targeting U.S. imports worth 95 billion euros (107.2 billion U.S. dollars), warning that retaliatory measures could take effect if ongoing negotiations with the United States over the so-called “reciprocal” tariffs fail to yield an agreement.

    A meeting on economic and trade affairs between Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will take place at the request of the U.S. side, during He’s May 9-12 visit to Switzerland. China’s Commerce Ministry stressed that China will not seek to reach any agreement at the expense of sacrificing its principles or the cause of international fairness and justice.

    Following their Thursday talks, Xi and Putin signed a joint statement on further deepening the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. In the document, China and Russia voice firm opposition against unilateral and unlawful restrictive measures such as trade and financial restrictions.

    The statement said that certain countries, under various pretexts, have arbitrarily imposed tariffs on their trading partners, seriously infringing upon the legitimate rights and interests of other countries, gravely violating WTO rules, severely undermining the rules-based multilateral trading system, and profoundly disrupting the stability of the global economic order.

    The two countries condemned acts of bypassing the UN Security Council to implement measures that violate the UN Charter and international law, obstruct justice and violate the rules of the WTO.

    They also pledged to continue to jointly deal with the downward pressure on the world economy, and facilitate the participation of more Global South countries in international and regional trade.

    In today’s world, China and Russia collaborate to establish a more just, sustainable and multipolar world order, said Vladimir Petrovskiy, chief researcher at the Institute of China and Contemporary Asia at the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    To this end, China and Russia have been working closely in mechanisms like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which are vital platforms for Global South countries to address development challenges and promote universal peace, he said.

    Xi is in Moscow for a state visit to Russia and celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. He and Putin have met over 40 times on various occasions.

    On Thursday, Xi and Putin held back-to-back small-group and large-group talks, and also had a chat over tea at the presidential office in the Kremlin.

    When the two presidents met the press following their talks, Xi described his talks with Putin as “in-depth, cordial and fruitful,” adding that they reached many important new consensuses. Putin said Xi’s visit is of great significance, and will inject strong momentum into the development of bilateral ties.

    The two presidents also witnessed the exchange of over 20 bilateral cooperation documents, covering areas such as global strategic stability, upholding the authority of international law, investment protection, digital economy, quarantine and film cooperation.

    In 2024, trade between China and Russia reached 244.8 billion dollars. China has remained Russia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years.

    Russia-China relations are built on equality and mutual respect, Putin said during talks with Xi. It is neither directed against any third party nor swayed by any transient matters, Putin noted.

    The political trust between Russia and China is unparalleled in the world, said Alexander V. Lomanov, a researcher at the Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences.

    In this context, there is vast potential to further facilitate the movement not only of tourists, but also of experts, scientists and cultural figures between the two countries, he noted.

    “There is much more we can do to deepen our exchanges,” he said. “The more frequent these interactions become, the stronger our mutual understanding will grow.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Press Conference: European Commission President von der Leyen with German Chancellor Merz

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    “We had an excellent exchange. We both agreed that whatever we are addressing right now needs to have an urgency mindset.” – European Commission President von der Leyen

    On 9 May 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a press conference with the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

    Key topics discussed:
    Competitiveness
    Trade
    Support to Ukraine
    Defence
    Migration

    For the full transcript of President von der Leyen’s statement, see here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_25_1173

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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hK_-cSY8tuQ

    MIL OSI Video