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Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI: Maris-Tech Announces Full Year 2024 Financial Results and Reports Record 51% Revenue Growth for 2024 with Improved Profitability

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Revenues Increased by 51%, Gross Profit Increased by 82% and Net Loss Reduced by 54% for the Year Ended December 31, 2024

    Rehovot, Israel, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Maris-Tech Ltd. (Nasdaq: MTEK, MTEKW) (“Maris-Tech” or the “Company”), a global leader in video and artificial intelligence (“AI”)- based edge computing technology, today announced its financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2024. The Company reported record revenues of approximately $6.1 million, an increase of 51% compared to approximately $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024, grew by 82%, reaching approximately $3.5 million compared to approximately $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    Mr. Israel Bar, Chief Executive Officer of Maris-Tech, said, “In 2024, we focused on new developments, strategic partnerships and expanding our presence in key markets. We strengthened our position in the defense sector, particularly in the miniature drone and unmanned aerial vehicles industry, and in armored vehicles and tanks. Among our key achievements, we launched the Uranus Drones – a miniature codec tailored for the drone industry – and introduced the Diamond System, which is already deployed in the battlefield, providing comprehensive protection for thousands of vehicles. We also increased our investment in marketing and business development in the United States, which has contributed to our accelerated growth.”

    Financial Highlights

    ●    Revenues: Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024, were approximately $6.1 million, an increase of 51% compared to approximately $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Gross Profit: Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately $3.5 million, an increase of 82% compared to approximately $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Net Loss: Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately $1.2 million, a decrease of 54% compared to approximately $2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Net Loss per Ordinary Share: Net loss per ordinary share for the year ended December 31, 2024, was approximately $0.16, a decrease of 53% compared to approximately $0.34 for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    ●    Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Bank Deposits: Cash and cash equivalents and short-term bank deposits as of December 31, 2024, were approximately $2.3 million, compared to approximately $5.2 million as of December 31, 2023.

    ●    Trade Receivables Balance: Increased to approximately $3.5 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to approximately $3.0 million as of December 31, 2023.

    We expect that our existing cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024, along with anticipated revenue from existing customers pursuant to existing orders and the availability of a $4 million line of credit, will be sufficient to fund our operations and meet our obligations for the next twelve months.

    Year Ended 2024 Highlights

    We strengthened our position in the defense and homeland security (“HLS”) markets, and accelerated revenue growth:

    ●    In January 2024, we secured a new purchase order for approximately $590,000 for an AI-based HLS and Defense Surveillance Application based on the Jupiter AI platform;

    ●    In February 2024, we received a purchase order for approximately $190,000 for a miniature low-power solution to enhance gun sight capabilities in tactical applications;

    ●    In February 2024, we received a repeat purchase order for approximately $600,000 with an option to increase the purchase order to approximately $730,000 to provide armored and autonomous vehicles with enhanced situational awareness;

    ●    In April 2024, we secured a new purchase order for $415,800 for a defense solution based on our Jupiter Nano platform;

    ●    In April 2024, we received a new purchase order for approximately $110,000 for a novel miniature intelligence-gathering product based on the Maris platform technology;

    ●    In June 2024, we received a new purchase order for $225,000 from Aero Sol military drone manufacturer for our Uranus-Drones solution;

    ●    In June 2024, we secured a repeat purchase order for approximately $957,000 for our situational awareness solution for Armored Vehicles;

    ●    In August 2024, we secured a $700,000 purchase order for innovative AI-Based Video Distribution Solution; and

    ●    In December 2024, we secured a $1 million purchase order from a U.S. repeat customer in the HLS industry for our advanced Jupiter-based video solution.

    Strategic Partnerships

    ●    In March 2024, we entered into a collaboration agreement with Renesas Electronics Corporation, one of the world’s largest semiconductor manufacturers, and we were accepted into the Renesas’ Preferred Partner Program; and

    ●    In June 2024, we entered into a collaboration agreement with LightPath Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: LPTH) (“LightPath”) for AI-Ready Infrared Cameras, providing AI accelerated hardware, software and algorithms for LightPath’s infrared cameras.

    New Products & Developments

    ●    In February 2024, we launched Emerald, a Jupiter-based multiple-channel high-definition and standard-definition raw video recording platform especially designed for defense armored vehicles;

    ●    In July 2024, we unveiled Diamond – a revolutionary defense 360° 3D Situational Awareness Solution for armored fighting vehicles;

    ●    In September 2024, we announced that our Amethyst Edge Computing video solution now supports 5G, enabling ultra-speed and high data transfer;

    ●    In September 2024, we enhanced our Diamond platform ability to combat airborne threats with Diamond Ultra; and

    ●    In December 2024, we completed the development of Uranus-Drones technology, which is now available for large-scale delivery.

    Expanded Global Awareness

    Maris-Tech strengthened our presence in the U.S. with the engagement of new sales representatives and increased participation in international defense and technology exhibitions, showcasing the Company’s cutting-edge solutions to a global audience.

    Backlog and Outlook

    Our backlog as of January 1, 2025, was approximately $9.8 million, which represents an increase from our backlog as of January 1, 2024, of approximately $9.76 million. Our backlog, as of March 28, 2025, was approximately $9.9 million.

    We define backlog as the accumulation of all pending orders with a later fulfillment date for which revenue has not been recognized, and we consider valid. The backlog consists of executed purchase orders from new customers and existing customers with which we have had long standing relationships and from governmental agencies.

    Mr. Bar concluded, “We remain committed to driving long-term growth by focusing on strategic innovation, expanding our market presence, and strengthening our relationships with global defense and homeland security customers. We believe that our pipeline of opportunities and strong order backlog position us well for continued growth in 2025 and beyond.”

    About Maris-Tech Ltd.

    Maris-Tech is a global leader in video and AI-based edge computing technology, pioneering intelligent video transmission solutions that conquer complex encoding-decoding challenges. Our miniature, lightweight, and low-power products deliver high-performance capabilities, including raw data processing, seamless transfer, advanced image processing, and AI-driven analytics. Founded by Israeli technology sector veterans, Maris-Tech serves leading manufacturers worldwide in defense, aerospace, Intelligence gathering, homeland security (HLS), and communication industries. We’re pushing the boundaries of video transmission and edge computing, driving innovation in mission-critical applications across commercial and defense sectors.

    For more information, visit https://www.maris-tech.com/

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the Company’s future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect”,” “may”, “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, the Company is using forward-looking statements when it is discussing: its growth in 2025 and beyond; expanding its market presence; strengthening its relationships with global defense and homeland security customers; future pipeline and opportunities; its backlog and the anticipated fulfillment of that backlog; the demand for its defense and AI-powered solutions; expanding its  presence in key markets; and its position in the defense sector, particularly in the miniature drone and unmanned aerial vehicles industry, and in armored vehicles and tanks. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the Company’s ability to successfully market its products and services, including in the United States; the acceptance of its products and services by customers; its continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for its products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; its ability to successfully develop new products and services; its success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; its ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2025, and its other filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations:

    Nir Bussy, CFO
    Tel: +972-72-2424022
    Nir@maris-tech.com

    The MIL Network –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Aegon announces changes to its Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Hague, March 31, 2025 – Aegon today announces the nomination of David Herzog, Lori Fouché and Jay Ralph as new members of its Board of Directors at the company’s Annual General Meeting of shareholders (AGM) which will be held on June 12, 2025. 

    The Board intends to appoint David Herzog as Chair in the second half of 2025. Mr. Herzog will succeed William Connelly. To ensure a smooth transition, the Board will propose the reappointment of Mr. Connelly as a member for an additional year. Subsequently, Mr. Connelly will retire as Chair and member of the Board in the second half of 2025. 

    Mark Ellman, who joined Aegon’s Board in 2017 and whose second term will end in 2025, along with Jack McGarry, who joined the Board in 2021 and whose first term will end in 2025, will be nominated for reappointment at the AGM. Meanwhile, Dona Young, who joined Aegon’s Board in 2013 and whose third term concludes in 2025, will retire. 

    William Connelly commented: “We are delighted to propose David Herzog, Lori Fouché and Jay Ralph as new members of Aegon’s Board. We believe their expertise in insurance and asset management will strengthen the Board’s composition and support the company as we continue to execute our strategy and deliver value to our stakeholders. I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dona Young for her many contributions to Aegon. With her commitment, valuable insights and pragmatic approach, Dona has played an important role in Aegon’s transformation.” 

    David Herzog brings over forty years of life insurance and financial services experience to the Board. Currently serving as a member of the Board of Directors at MetLife, and as Chairman of the Board at DXC Technology, David’s extensive career includes key roles such as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President at American International Group (AIG) from 2008 to 2016. Prior to this, Mr. Herzog was the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at American General Life, following its acquisition by AIG. He also held various executive positions at GenAmerica Corporation and Family Guardian Life, a Citicorp company, adding to his profound insight into the financial services industry.

    Lori Fouché brings over two decades of experience in the financial services industry and has extensive expertise in driving transformation and innovation. Most recently, Ms. Fouché served as Senior Executive Vice President and Advisor to the CEO of TIAA, a US-based provider of retirement and investment solutions, and as CEO of TIAA Financial Solutions. Prior to joining TIAA in 2018, she held several senior positions at Prudential Financial, including Group Head of Individual Solutions, President of Individual Annuities, and CEO of Group Insurance businesses. In addition to her executive roles, Ms. Fouché currently serves on the Board of The Kraft Heinz Company, a global food and beverage company, and Hippo Holdings, a property insurance provider and she is member of the Princeton University Board of Trustees.

    Jay Ralph has had a distinguished career in insurance and asset management including almost 20 years in leadership roles at Allianz SE, a global insurance and asset management company. Mr. Ralph was most recently a member of the Board of Management of Allianz SE and Chairman of both Allianz Asset Management and Allianz Life Insurance Company North America. He has also served on various boards of Allianz SE’s global subsidiaries across Europe and the Americas. Prior to this, he held several senior roles in the financial industry. Mr. Ralph currently sits on the Board of Swiss Re Group and the Siemens Pension Advisory Board. 

    The appointments are subject to shareholder approval and will be included in the agenda of the 2025 AGM, which will be published in May. Once elected by Aegon’s AGM, the appointments will be effective as of the end of that meeting. 

    Contacts

    About Aegon

    Aegon is an international financial services holding company. Aegon’s ambition is to build leading businesses that offer their customers investment, protection, and retirement solutions. Aegon’s portfolio of businesses includes fully owned businesses in the United States and United Kingdom, and a global asset manager. Aegon also creates value by combining its international expertise with strong local partners via insurance joint-ventures in Spain & Portugal, China, and Brazil, and via asset management partnerships in France and China. In addition, Aegon owns a Bermuda-based life insurer and generates value via a strategic shareholding in a market leading Dutch insurance and pensions company.

    Aegon’s purpose of helping people live their best lives runs through all its activities. As a leading global investor and employer, Aegon seeks to have a positive impact by addressing critical environmental and societal issues, with a focus on climate change and inclusion & diversity. Aegon is headquartered in The Hague, the Netherlands, domiciled in Bermuda, and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the New York Stock Exchange. More information can be found at aegon.com.

    Forward-looking statements
    The statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The following are words that identify such forward-looking statements: aim, believe, estimate, target, intend, may, expect, anticipate, predict, project, counting on, plan, continue, want, forecast, goal, should, would, could, is confident, will, and similar expressions as they relate to Aegon. These statements may contain information about financial prospects, economic conditions and trends and involve risks and uncertainties. In addition, any statements that refer to sustainability, environmental and social targets, commitments, goals, efforts and expectations and other events or circumstances that are partially dependent on future events are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Aegon undertakes no obligation, and expressly disclaims any duty, to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which merely reflect company expectations at the time of writing. Actual results may differ materially and adversely from expectations conveyed in forward-looking statements due to changes caused by various risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to the following:

    • Unexpected delays, difficulties, and expenses in executing against Aegon’s environmental, climate, diversity and inclusion or other “ESG” targets, goals and commitments, and changes in laws or regulations affecting us, such as changes in data privacy, environmental, health and safety laws;
    • Changes in general economic and/or governmental conditions, particularly in Bermuda, the United States, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom;
    • Civil unrest, (geo-) political tensions, military action or other instability in a country or geographic region;
    • Changes in the performance of financial markets, including emerging markets, such as with regard to:         
      • The frequency and severity of defaults by issuers in Aegon’s fixed income investment portfolios;
      • The effects of corporate bankruptcies and/or accounting restatements on the financial markets and the resulting decline in the value of equity and debt securities Aegon holds;
      • The effects of declining creditworthiness of certain public sector securities and the resulting decline in the value of government exposure that Aegon holds;
      • The impact from volatility in credit, equity, and interest rates;
    • Changes in the performance of Aegon’s investment portfolio and decline in ratings of Aegon’s counterparties;
    • Lowering of one or more of Aegon’s debt ratings issued by recognized rating organizations and the adverse impact such action may have on Aegon’s ability to raise capital and on its liquidity and financial condition;
    • Lowering of one or more of insurer financial strength ratings of Aegon’s insurance subsidiaries and the adverse impact such action may have on the written premium, policy retention, profitability and liquidity of its insurance subsidiaries;
    • The effect of applicable Bermuda solvency requirements, the European Union’s Solvency II requirements, and applicable equivalent solvency requirements and other regulations in other jurisdictions affecting the capital Aegon is required to maintain;
    • Changes in the European Commissions’ or European regulator’s position on the equivalence of the supervisory regime for insurance and reinsurance undertakings in force in Bermuda;
    • Changes affecting interest rate levels and low or rapidly changing interest rate levels;
    • Changes affecting currency exchange rates, in particular the EUR/USD and EUR/GBP exchange rates;
    • Changes affecting inflation levels, particularly in the United States, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom;
    • Changes in the availability of, and costs associated with, liquidity sources such as bank and capital markets funding, as well as conditions in the credit markets in general such as changes in borrower and counterparty creditworthiness;
    • Increasing levels of competition, particularly in the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and emerging markets;
    • Catastrophic events, either manmade or by nature, including by way of example acts of God, acts of terrorism, acts of war and pandemics, could result in material losses and significantly interrupt Aegon’s business;
    • The frequency and severity of insured loss events;
    • Changes affecting longevity, mortality, morbidity, persistence and other factors that may impact the profitability of Aegon’s insurance products and management of derivatives;
    • Aegon’s projected results are highly sensitive to complex mathematical models of financial markets, mortality, longevity, and other dynamic systems subject to shocks and unpredictable volatility. Should assumptions to these models later prove incorrect, or should errors in those models escape the controls in place to detect them, future performance will vary from projected results;
    • Reinsurers to whom Aegon has ceded significant underwriting risks may fail to meet their obligations;
    • Changes in customer behavior and public opinion in general related to, among other things, the type of products Aegon sells, including legal, regulatory or commercial necessity to meet changing customer expectations;
    • Customer responsiveness to both new products and distribution channels;
    • Third-party information used by us may prove to be inaccurate and change over time as methodologies and data availability and quality continue to evolve impacting our results and disclosures;
    • As Aegon’s operations support complex transactions and are highly dependent on the proper functioning of information technology, operational risks such as system disruptions or failures, security or data privacy breaches, cyberattacks, human error, failure to safeguard personally identifiable information, changes in operational practices or inadequate controls including with respect to third parties with which Aegon does business, may disrupt Aegon’s business, damage its reputation and adversely affect its results of operations, financial condition and cash flows, and Aegon may be unable to adopt to and apply new technologies;
    • The impact of acquisitions and divestitures, restructurings, product withdrawals and other unusual items, including Aegon’s ability to complete, or obtain regulatory approval for, acquisitions and divestitures, integrate acquisitions, and realize anticipated results, and its ability to separate businesses as part of divestitures;
    • Aegon’s failure to achieve anticipated levels of earnings or operational efficiencies, as well as other management initiatives related to cost savings, Cash Capital at Holding, gross financial leverage and free cash flow;
    • Changes in the policies of central banks and/or governments;
    • Litigation or regulatory action that could require Aegon to pay significant damages or change the way Aegon does business;
    • Competitive, legal, regulatory, or tax changes that affect profitability, the distribution cost of or demand for Aegon’s products;
    • Consequences of an actual or potential break-up of the European Monetary Union in whole or in part, or further consequences of the exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union and potential consequences if other European Union countries leave the European Union;
    • Changes in laws and regulations, or the interpretation thereof by regulators and courts, including as a result of comprehensive reform or shifts away from multilateral approaches to regulation of global or national operations, particularly regarding those laws and regulations related to ESG matters, those affecting Aegon’s operations’ ability to hire and retain key personnel, taxation of Aegon companies, the products Aegon sells, the attractiveness of certain products to its consumers and Aegon’s intellectual property;
    • Regulatory changes relating to the pensions, investment, insurance industries and enforcing adjustments in the jurisdictions in which Aegon operates;
    • Standard setting initiatives of supranational standard setting bodies such as the Financial Stability Board and the International Association of Insurance Supervisors or changes to such standards that may have an impact on regional (such as EU), national or US federal or state level financial regulation or the application thereof to Aegon, including the designation of Aegon by the Financial Stability Board as a Global Systemically Important Insurer (G-SII);
    • Changes in accounting regulations and policies or a change by Aegon in applying such regulations and policies, voluntarily or otherwise, which may affect Aegon’s reported results, shareholders’ equity or regulatory capital adequacy levels;
    • Changes in ESG standards and requirements, including assumptions, methodology and materiality, or a change by Aegon in applying such standards and requirements, voluntarily or otherwise, may affect Aegon’s ability to meet evolving standards and requirements, or Aegon’s ability to meet its sustainability and ESG-related goals, or related public expectations, which may also negatively affect Aegon’s reputation or the reputation of its board of directors or its management; and
    • Other risks and uncertainties identified in the Form 20-F and in other documents filed or to be filed by Aegon with the SEC.
    • Reliance on third-party information in certain of Aegon’s disclosures, which may change over time as methodologies and data availability and quality continue to evolve. These factors, as well as any inaccuracies in third-party information used by Aegon, including in estimates or assumptions, may cause results to differ materially and adversely from statements, estimates, and beliefs made by Aegon or third-parties. Moreover, Aegon’s disclosures based on any standards may change due to revisions in framework requirements, availability of information, changes in its business or applicable governmental policies, or other factors, some of which may be beyond Aegon’s control. Additionally, Aegon’s discussion of various ESG and other sustainability issues in this document or in other locations, including on our corporate website, may be informed by the interests of various stakeholders, as well as various ESG standards, frameworks, and regulations (including for the measurement and assessment of underlying data). As such, our disclosures on such issues, including climate-related disclosures, may include information that is not necessarily “material” under US securities laws for SEC reporting purposes, even if we use words such as “material” or “materiality” in relation to those statements. ESG expectations continue to evolve, often quickly, including for matters outside of our control; our disclosures are inherently dependent on the methodology (including any related assumptions or estimates) and data used, and there can be no guarantee that such disclosures will necessarily reflect or be consistent with the preferred practices or interpretations of particular stakeholders, either currently or in future.

    This document contains information that qualifies, or may qualify, as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation (596/2014). Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting Aegon are described in its filings with the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including the 2023 Integrated Annual Report. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this document. Except as required by any applicable law or regulation, Aegon expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Aegon’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Attachment

    • 31032025_PR_Aegon announces changes to its Board of Directors

    The MIL Network –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Virtune AB (Publ) is launching Virtune Litecoin ETP on Nasdaq Stockholm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stockholm, 31st of March 2025 – Virtune, a Swedish regulated digital asset manager, is announcing the launch of Virtune Litecoin ETP on Nasdaq Stockholm, the largest stock exchange in the Nordic region. 

    About Virtune Litecoin ETP
    Virtune Litecoin ETP provides exposure to Litecoin. Like all of Virtune’s exchange-traded products, Virtune Litecoin ETP is 100% physically backed and fully collateralized, is denominated in SEK for the Nordic audience and is available through brokers and banks including Avanza and Nordnet.

    Key Information about Virtune Litecoin ETP:

    • 1:1 exposure to Litecoin (LTC)
    • 100% physically backed by LTC
    • 1.95% annual management fee

    Virtune Litecoin ETP

    • Full name: Virtune Litecoin ETP 
    • Short name: Virtune Litecoin
    • Ticker: VIRLTC
    • Trading currency: SEK
    • First day of trading: Monday 31st of March 2025
    • ISIN: SE0023951082
    • Stock exchange: Nasdaq Stockholm

    About Litecoin
    Litecoin is a fast, low-cost, and reliable crypto asset that was founded in 2011 and designed for everyday transactions. Built on a decentralized network with strong security and high liquidity, Litecoin offers faster transactions and lower fees than Bitcoin.

    Christopher Kock, CEO of Virtune: 
    “After an eventful start to 2025 for Virtune, during which we have made significant progress related to expansion and distribution, we are excited to announce the launch of the first Litecoin ETP listed in the Nordics. This innovative product is 100% physically backed, with Litecoin securely stored by our custodian Coinbase, and is available to both institutional and retail investors through various brokers and banks. This marks an important step in the continued expansion of our innovative ETP offering.”

    If you are an institutional investor interested in exploring the potential of our current and upcoming ETPs for your discretionary asset management or wish to learn more about Virtune and our product offering, please feel free to contact us. Visit www.virtune.com for more information, and register your email address on our website to receive updates on upcoming ETP launches and other news related to crypto assets.

    Press contact

    Christopher Kock, CEO Virtune AB (Publ)
    christopher@virtune.com
    +46 70 073 45 64

    Virtune with its headquarters in Stockholm is a regulated Swedish digital asset manager and issuer of crypto exchange traded products on regulated European exchanges. With regulatory compliance, strategic collaborations with industry leaders and our proficient team, we empower investors on a global level to access innovative and sophisticated investment products that are aligned with the evolving landscape of the global crypto market.

    Crypto investments are associated with high risk. Virtune does not provide investment advice; investments are made at your own risk. Securities may increase or decrease in value, there is no guarantee of getting back invested capital. Read the prospectus, KID, terms at virtune.com.

    The MIL Network –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD CONSUMER RIGHTS DAY 2025

    Source:

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    KEYNOTE ADDRESS by the Minister of Commerce Industry and Labour, Honourable Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua (14th March 2025)

    Reverend Misipati Afutiti,

    Distinguished guests,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to all participants representing various organizations, school principals, teachers and students who are gathered here today for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Labour (Ministry) Awareness Day.

    TALOFA LAVA

    Today’s programme marks the commemoration of the World Consumer Rights Day, an important occasion dedicated to celebrating consumer rights and standing in solidarity with the global consumer movement.

    The Ministry commemorated the World Consumer Rights Day on March 14th, 2025, in advance of the internationally recognized date of March 15th, which falls on a Saturday. The World Consumer Rights Day is an annual event that provides an opportunity to advocate for the protection and respect of consumer rights while addressing market abuses and social injustices that undermine those rights. The World Consumer Rights Day was inspired by President John F Kennedy, who, on March 15, 1962, delivered a special message to the US Congress that formally acknowledged the importance of consumer rights. The day was first observed by Consumer International (CI) on 15 March 1983 and continues to be commemorated each year on this date, driving action on key issues and campaigns. This year marks the 27th celebration of World Consumer Rights Day in Samoa.

    In June 1998, the Samoan Government enacted the Fair Trading Act, aimed at protecting consumer rights and establishing conduct standards for businesses operating in Samoa. This legislation was later refined and strengthened by the Competition and Consumer Act of 2016.

    In honour of this special day, the Ministry sets aside the universal theme “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles” but chooses to proceed raising commitment in engaging consumers and businesses to interact in a solid and competitive trading environment by conducting an outreach program.

    The eight fundamental Consumer Rights include:

    1. Right to satisfaction of basic needs

    2. Right to safety

    3. Right to information

    4. Right to choose

    5. Right to representation

    6. Right to redress

    7. Right to a healthy environment

    8. Right to consumer education

    It is our hope that by the conclusion of today’s activities, all attendees will have a comprehensive understanding of their consumer rights and obligations, the Ministry’s services and its integral role within our community. We also eagerly anticipate receiving your valuable feedback to further improve our services.

    On that note, I wish you all a successful and enriching day.

    I HEREBY DECLARE THIS AWARENESS DAY OFFICIALLY OPENED.

    Soifua.

    FAAMANATUINA O LE ASO FAAPITOA MO AIA TATAU A TAGATA FAATAU 2025

    SAUNOAGA AUTU a le Minisita o le Matagaluega o Pisinisi Alamanuia ma Laipa le afioga Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua, (14 Mati 2025)

    E manatu o lea ua pale i galutu’u seegapapa a le tupu e pei o le fetalaiga i le malae o le Tea Malosi . Ua o tatou fesilafai foi i pu’e o manu ae le o mala i le alofa ma le agalelei o le Tapaau Sili i le Lagi. Ae e’e ia i vaatapu ou paia sausaugatā Samoa auā o paia lava mai le vavau seia o’o i le faavavau.

    Lau Susūga i le Ta’ita’i o le sauniga ma le pa’ia maualuga o le valaaulia. Mālo le soifua manuia ma le lagi e mamā. O lea ua māe’a ona asa uta mamao ma uta lalata, ua uma foi ona paniniu pa’ia o le taeao ma le aso e pei ona saunoa i ai le fofoga o le aso. Ae o le a salatonu ia lau o le fō ma vili tonu le ifi a Māina e tusa ai ma le faamoemoe o lenei aso.

    O le faamoemoe ua taunuu, o le la’au lea o le soifua. Faafetai tele mo le taliaina o le vala’au atu a le Matagaluega ina ia tatou auai faatasi I lenei faamoemoe.

    O lenei faamoemoe ua faapitoa lea mo le faailogaina o le Aso Faapitoa mo le Puipuia o Aia Tatau a Tagata Faatau.

    O le aso 15 o Mati i tausaga taitasi e faamanatuina ai i le lalolagi atoa le Aso Faapitoa mo le Faalauiloaina o Aia Tatau a Tagata Faatau o le Lalolagi (World Consumer Rights Day). Talu ai o le aso 15 e pāu i le Aso Toonai, o lea ua faailogaina ai i le asō le aso faapitoa i lenei tausaga.

    O lenei Aso Faapitoa sa ulua’i faamamaluina mai le tausaga e 1983 e se tasi o Peresetene ta’uta’ua o le malo o Amerika, o John F Kennedy. O le tausaga e 1998 na amata faamamaluina ai i Samoa lenei aso faapitoa ina ua pasiaina le Tulafono o Fefaatauaiga Talafeagai lea ua suia nei i le Tulafono o Faiga Faatauvaga mo Fefaatauaiga ma le Puipuia o Tagata e Fa’aaogaina Oloa ma Auaunaga 2016. O se tasi o sini autu o lenei Tulafono o le puipuia lea o aia tatau a tagata faatau i le atunuu.

    O le luasefulu fitu (27) ai lenei o tausaga talu ona faamamaluina i Samoa lenei aso faapitoa ma ua avea ai lava le aso 15 o Mati o tausaga taitasi ma aso faapitoa mo lenei faamoemoe taua. O se faailoga foi lea o le faatauaina tele o aia tatau a tagata faatau uma.

    O ia Aia Tatau e 8 e aofia ai:

    1. Aia Tatau i oloa ma auaunaga saogalemu

    2. Aia Tatau i faamatalaga o oloa ma auaunaga

    3. Aia Tatau e filifili ai i oloa lelei ma auaunaga talafeagai ma lou mana’o

    4. Aia Tatau faa-le-tulafono

    5. Aia Tatau mo le faamalieina o manaoga masani

    6. Aia Tatau e toe faaleleia ai se oloa, toe sui se oloa, poo le toe totogi foi o se oloa poo se auaunaga ua lē talafeagai

    7. Aia Tatau i se si’osi’omaga mama

    8. Aia Tatau ia A’oa’oina

    Ua filifili le Matagaluega e faataatia le Sini Autu Faavaomalo mo lenei Tausaga “O se suiga tonu i se olaga gafataulimaina” ae faatautaia polokalame faalauiloa e saga unaia atili ai le silafia o tagata faatau i a latou matafaioi poo aia tatau.

    O se faamanatu taua tele mo tagata faatau, ia fa’aaogaina a latou aia tatau ma le tatau i taimi o fefaatauaiga ma fesoasoani tele ia ausia se si’osi’omaga maloloina ma talafeagai i maketi o fefaatauaiga.

    E i ai le manatu maualuga o le a fa’aaogaina lenei avanoa tatou te talatalanoa ai ma fefa’asoa’i i mataupu uma o loo mafai ona tuuina atu ai se fesoasoani, fautuaga ma se auaunaga a lenei Matagaluega. E le gata i lea o ni auaunaga e tatau ona faaleleia atili a le Matagaluega.

    Ia manūteleina lenei aso i le alofa o le Atua, ma ou te faamalosi ‘au atu ina ia fa’aaoga lenei avanoa lelei ma le tāua tatou te fefaasoaa’i ai ma fetufaa’i ai. Ia tatala le tofā ma le faautautaga sasa’a i finagalo o le tatou mafutaga ina ia tofu le gogo ma si ana i’a auā lava le sini autu o lenei aso. Ia agalelei mai le Alii ma tulituliloaina pea i tatou i lona alofa tunoa ma lona filemu ma taitaiina atu i tatou uma i le faaiuga o lenei faamoemoe.

    UA TATALA ALOAIA LE TATOU FAAMOEMOE I LE ASŌ.

    SOIFUA MA IA MANUIA.

    Ata Pueina – Malo o Samoa (Taunuuga Toatasi)

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    March 31, 2025

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS FOR THE AMBASSADOR – DESIGNATE OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES TO SAMOA

    Source:

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    [PRESS RELEASE – Wednesday 19th March 2025] The newly accredited Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Independent State of Samoa, H.E. Ms. Kira Christianne D. Azucena presented her Letter of Credence to the Head of State of Samoa at the credential ceremony held yesterday afternoon, on 19 March 2025.

    On the occasion, Ambassador Azucena in her remarks conveyed greetings and best wishes from the President of the Philippines, His Excellency Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr to the Head of State and to the Government and People of Samoa. The Ambassador also highlighted the remarkable parallels and similarities between both Samoa and Filipino cultures, attributing these commonalities to the very relations that both nations enjoy today. Ambassador Azucena reaffirmed the Philippines commitment to strengthening the diplomatic ties and cooperation between the two countries for a better and prosperous future for all.

    Afioga Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II acknowledged the Government of the Philippines continued support for Samoa through their Technical Cooperation programme and expressed his gratitude for the latter’s assistance through the Trainers training on diplomatic protocol and conference management workshop conducted in March 2024 to assist Samoa with its preparations in hosting the 2024 CHOGM. The Head of State also expressed his confidence that the appointment of H.E Azucena as the new Ambassador of the Philippines to Samoa will yield more opportunities in promoting cooperation and enhancing relations between the two countries.

    Her Excellency Ms. Kira Christianne Danganan Azucena is a career diplomat and has served in various capacities to include, Director for the Central Europe at the Office of European Affairs, Special Assistant to the Secretary General of the National Organizing Committee in 2006. In Cebu, she served as Executive Director of the Office of the UN and other International Organizations, Assistant Secretary of the Office of American Affairs, Chief Coordinator of the Office of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Chief of Staff of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. She was also on various diplomatic postings including as First Secretary and Consul and Alternate Permanent Representative to the FAO at the Philippines Embassy in Rome and served as the Deputy Consul at the Philippines Consulate General in Hong Kong. She continued her career as Deputy Consul General at the Philippines Consulate in New York and later became Deputy Permanent Representative and Chargé d’ffaires a.i at the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the United Nations. H.E Azucena is currently the Ambassador of the Philippines to New Zealand with concurrent accreditation to the Pacific countries including Samoa with residence in Wellington, New Zealand.

    END

    SOURCE – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

    Photos by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)

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    March 31, 2025

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Geopolitical Risks and Trade Conflicts: How Resilient is the Swiss Economy? – KOF

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    Since the new U.S. administration took office, geopolitical risks and international trade conflicts have significantly intensified. KOF has examined the risks and possible consequences for the Swiss economy. The findings show: trade conflicts can lead to declines in Swiss gross domestic product (GDP), ranging from fractions of a percent to over one percent per year on a sustained basis. In the case of severe and prolonged trade conflicts, the economy could fall into a recession.

    In their KOF Working Paper “Resilience of Small Open Economies to Geopolitical Shocks: The Case of Switzerland,” Hans Gersbach, Paul Maxence Maunoir, and Kieran James Walsh examine various scenarios concerning the risks to the Swiss economy arising from trade conflicts and its consequences. “The Swiss economy is both resilient and vulnerable,” summarizes Hans Gersbach, Co-Director of KOF Swiss Economic Institute, reflecting on the study’s findings.

    Although the Swiss economy is relatively resilient to the effects of geopolitical shocks, it is also quite vulnerable in the event of intense and prolonged trade conflicts. In such cases, permanent losses of around one percent of GDP per year are possible. In some scenarios, additional effects (so-called “second-layer” effects) can further amplify these losses. If severe trade conflicts were to arise between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, as well as between the U.S. and Europe, there would be a clear risk of recession for several countries, including Switzerland.

    Two-Stage Process for Analysis

    To examine the resilience of the Swiss economy, the authors employed a two-step approach. The impact of geopolitical disruptions on international trade in goods and services for Switzerland and other countries is analyzed using the new “KOF Trade Model”. This model is a modern quantitative general equilibrium model of global trade networks. It captures the effects of relative price and demand changes resulting from tariffs, how companies respond in their production of goods and services, and feedback effects on all market participants.

    However, a number of further effects—such as downward amplification, structural changes in investment activity, further nominal exchange rate fluctuations, or product-specific supply chain disruptions—are not included in the model. Depending on the scenario, these second-layer effects may have minor, significant, or major implications. They must therefore be considered for a comprehensive assessment.

    In (Almost) All Scenarios, the Economy Suffers Losses

    The Swiss economy is particularly vulnerable if the U.S. administration imposes tariffs on imports from all countries, including key sectors of the Swiss economy. These sectors would include the pharmaceutical industry, mechanical engineering, and precision instruments for instance. If this scenario were to occur, the Swiss economy would be the most affected of all countries on the European mainland. If the European Union (EU) responded to broad U.S. import tariffs with comprehensive countermeasures, also against Switzerland, significant losses could arise—potentially exceeding 1% of GDP.

    However, in both scenarios, the economies of the U.S. and major countries in the EU would suffer similarly or even more. Therefore, such comprehensive tariff wars are difficult for these countries to sustain in the long term and are not considered the most likely scenario. Should critical raw materials or computer chips become unavailable due to geopolitical tensions, or if there were a rapid policy-driven decoupling between a Western sphere (including Switzerland) and a sphere centered around China, major disruptions would be expected. Such a decoupling could even lead to a global economic crisis.

    Conclusion

    Our results provide a foundation for discussion on how the economic resilience of Switzerland can be strengthened and what role the state should play in this process. Key policy levers include free trade agreements to promote diversification and risk mitigation, conditions to ensure supply security, and the government’s contribution to a resilient innovation system.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NITI Aayog organises National Workshop on “Internationalisation of Higher Education in India: Challenges, Best Practices, and Policy Interventions” at IIT Madras, Chennai on March 29, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 7:16PM by PIB Delhi

    A one-day National Workshop on ‘Internationalisation of Higher Education in India’, was organised by the Education Division of NITI Aayog, as a part of the NITI–State workshop series, an initiative under the State Support Mission, and in collaboration with its knowledge partners, IIT Madras, Association of Indian Universities (AIU), and Acumen at the IIT Madras campus in Chennai on Saturday, 29th March 2025.

    The workshop brought together officers from the Centre, State and UT Governments, Institutions of National Importance, Central Universities, State Public Universities, Private Universities, Deemed Universities, International Universities, and representatives from several countries to deliberate on challenges, best practices and policy interventions for implementing internationalisation initiatives in Indian higher education at the systemic and institutional levels as envisioned in the National Education Policy 2020.

    Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul, Hon’ble Member (Education), NITI Aayog delivered the Keynote Address and the Concluding Address and chaired the entire workshop’s proceedings. Prof. Kamakoti Veezhinathan, Director, IIT Madras, delivered the Inaugural Address. Dr. Sonia Pant, Programme Director (Education), NITI Aayog welcomed the 140-strong audience. Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean – Global Engagement, IIT Madras, Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, Association of Indian Universities, and Shri Adrian Mutton, Executive Chairman, Acumen addressed the gathering on behalf of the knowledge partners’ consortium.

    The workshop featured 40 speakers across 4 technical sessions on: (i) Internationalisation of Higher Education in India (in retrospect and future prospects), (ii) Academic Mobility for Learning and Research, (iii) Internationalisation of Curricula & Programmes, and (iv) Expanding Global Presence of Indian universities through Offshore Campuses and beyond. Special case studies on successes of Indian and international universities were presented including Indian universities setting up overseas campuses and international universities establishing campuses in India including at the GIFT City. Several country case studies including those of Australia, France, New Zealand, UK, USA, among others were also presented at the workshop.

    As discussions proceeded, participants emphasized actionable strategies such as enhancing infrastructure, streamlining regulations, and promoting India as a destination for academic collaboration, research, and learning on a global scale.

    This workshop marked a significant milestone in India’s journey towards internationalisation of higher education. The insights generated will feed into the ongoing NITI policy research study that aims to position Indian higher education institutions at the forefront of global academic excellence, ensuring India-centric internationalisation, and creating world class and world ready talent to enable India to play an influential role as a knowledge economy and achieve its vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2116875) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CFS urges public not to consume a kind of imported double cream detected with total bacterial count exceeding legal limit

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (March 29) that a sample of prepackaged pasteurised double cream imported from the United Kingdom (UK) was detected with total bacterial count exceeding the legal limit. The CFS urged the public not to consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should stop using or selling the batch of the product concerned immediately if they possess it.

    Product details are as follows:

    Product name: British Double Cream 300ml
    Brand: Marks & Spencer
    Place of origin: UK
    Importer: Alf Retail Hong Kong Limited
    Packing: 300ml per pack
    Use-by date: March 29, 2025

    A spokesman for the CFS said, “The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample at the import level for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the total bacterial count for the sample was 394 800 per millilitre. According to the Milk Regulation (Cap. 132AQ), milk after heat treatment by means of pasteurisation should not contain more than 30 000 bacteria per millilitre.”

    The CFS has informed the importer concerned of the irregularity, and has temporarily suspended the permission to import for sale of the product concerned granted earlier to the importer. The importer concerned has stopped selling and removed from shelves the affected batch of the product upon the CFS’s instructions and has initiated a recall. Enquiries about the recall can be made to the importer’s hotline at 3656 2253 during office hours. 

    The spokesman said that the total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean it would lead to food poisoning.

    The CFS will inform the British authorities of the incident, and will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and safety reforms allow small business to focus on what matters most

    Source: Business Central

    Changes to health and safety laws announced today will allow small businesses to focus on the most critical risks, says Business Central CEO Simon Arcus.
    “Safety is essential to every workplace, but our current health and safety laws don’t reflect levels of actual risk.
    “A retail shop or small office is a very different environment to a construction site, yet our current laws require small business to address their risks in similar ways.
    “Small businesses can easily be overwhelmed by the breadth of our health and safety laws, which add unnecessary complexity and cost.
    “This change will not only reduce costs to business – it will make low-risk environments safer by focusing on the most critical risks.
    “It also frees up the regulator, WorkSafe, to focus on areas where it can have the most impact on reducing harm.
    “Today’s announcement is the first in a series of changes designed to reduce red tape for business. 
    “Reducing compliance for small, low risk businesses is a proportionate, sensible step.”
    Business Central is the largest business membership organisation in Central New Zealand, representing more than 3500 businesses across the lower North Island and Nelson and providing a voice to many thousands of stakeholders in business. It is part of the BusinessNZ Network, alongside the EMA, Business Canterbury and Business South.
    The organisation supports a number of regional business membership groups – Business Central, Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Porirua Chamber of Commerce and ExportNZ (Central, Hawke’s Bay, and Wellington).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Safety changes driven by ACT party ideology – CTU

    Source: Council of Trade Unions (CTU)

    Health and Safety changes driven by ACT party ideology, not evidence, said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Richard Wagstaff.

    Changes to health and safety legislation proposed by the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden today comply with ACT party ideology, ignores the evidence, and will compound New Zealand’s dismal health and safety performance.

    “It’s disappointing to see the Minister has ignored the widespread consensus on what New Zealand needs to do to improve its poor track record and instead has chosen to carve out small businesses from good health and safety practices,” Wagstaff said.

    “Exempting small businesses from best practice health and safety makes no sense when we know that small business are riskier and need more support.

    “The Government seems to think the biggest obstacle to our poor productivity and health and safety outcomes is too many road cones. It’s no wonder New Zealand can’t get ahead when our leaders in Government seem so out of touch, and have no credible responses to these challenges.

    “Given the massive challenge we have as a country to improve our health and safety performance, it’s astounding the Minister would target the use of road cones and expect WorkSafe to focus its scarce time and energy on creating a hotline.

    “The Minister has been quick to cut support for important issues like modern slavery, and sat on her hands on other important health and safety concerns, like banning engineered stone. It would seem that this Government is more concerned about road cones than either of these issues.

    “What’s worse is that these changes are being justified on the basis of cutting red tape for economic growth. Good business know that proper health and safety is not a compliance cost.

    “On average there is a workplace fatality every week, another 20 are killed from occupational disease, and thousands more are incapacitated by injuries. Nothing in these proposals signals an intent to improve these numbers,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Markus Wagner, Professor of Law and Director of the UOW Transnational Law and Policy Centre, University of Wollongong

    Since returning to office in January, US President Donald Trump has doubled down on using trade measures – mostly tariffs – to reshape global trade. He plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on what he has labelled “Liberation Day”, April 2.

    The Trump administration claims US producers face higher tariffs and more restrictions abroad than foreign producers when they export to the US.

    The administration also examined tax systems such as Europe’s Value Added Tax and Australia’s GST, import regulations and other factors. It believes – mostly wrongly – these unfairly disadvantage American businesses and contribute to the US trade deficit.

    As with many Trump initiatives, actual tariffs often change significantly between announcement and implementation, if they are implemented at all.

    His reciprocal tariffs have been narrowed to imports from the US’ largest trading partners instead of imports from all countries. There may also be tariffs on specific sectors. Last week, Trump announced 25% tariffs on cars from overseas. At the weekend said he “couldn’t care less” if this made cars more expensive for US consumers.

    Coercive control, revenue and re-shoring

    President Trump has raised a myriad of puzzling arguments in favour of tariffs. They largely fall into three categories:

    The first is the use of tariffs as a coercion tool against other countries. In the first Trump presidency, trading partners were pressured to renegotiate trade agreements such as the renamed but largely identical US-Mexico-Canada agreement.

    Similarly, the Trump administration used the threat of tariffs to gain market access, elicit better trade terms or as a form of weaponised trade to achieve unrelated foreign policy goals.

    Last week, Trump suggested he would consider a reduction in tariffs on China in exchange for a sale of TikTok by its Chinese owner.

    The second category is the use of tariffs as a source of revenue. The Trump administration envisions tariffs to be collected by a yet-to-be-created External Revenue Service. This would form the flip side of the powerful and much-maligned Internal Revenue Service.

    Trump claims tariffs will be paid by the exporting country. This would be in theory to finance future tax cuts. In practice, tariffs are almost always paid by the importer of goods and usually get passed on to consumers.

    There is a potential contradiction between these two rationales. It appears the Trump administration wants to make at least some tariffs permanent. But doing so would almost nullify the use of tariffs as a bargaining chip and coercion tool.

    The final category is to encourage companies to “re-shore” production to the US to avoid tariffs and to support US jobs.

    This would signal a reversal of what 1994 presidential candidate Ross Perot, speaking of the North American Free Trade Agreement, called the “giant sucking sound going south”. Some manufacturing may return to the US. But the high costs of building new factories, re-routing supply chains and uncompetitive US labour costs will hinder large-scale re-shoring efforts.

    A long-term plan?

    The Trump administration’s trade moves can be seen as part of a larger strategy to reshape the US domestic and the global economic system.

    In a recent speech, US Vice-President JD Vance argued for a structural reshaping of the US economy, to increase domestic innovation capacity.

    Vance warned “deindustrialisation poses risks both to our national security and our workforce”. Vance himself sums up this approach by characterising tariffs as a “necessary tool to protect our jobs and our industries”.

    This line of argument overlooks a number of critical factors. Tariffs lead to higher prices for consumers. Unless currencies adjust, the inflationary impact could disadvantage the very people that can least afford it.

    The same is true if other countries respond to US trade measures by responding in kind, as Canada and the European Union already have.

    American farmers and other export-oriented industries will be hard hit. From a strategic perspective, the US position as global leader has suffered a severe blow. Some countries are openly pivoting to its geopolitical and economic rival, China.

    If this scenario comes to pass, the US pullback – an outright withdrawal is unlikely – from the highly integrated international trading system might end up a more chaotic version of the UK’s pursuit of Brexit.

    A step back in time

    The world of liberalised trade that followed the end of the Cold War in 1990 is ending. Countries will turn inwards, prioritising their economic security and resilience. The costs of this turn away from multilateralism and international institutions, however, are not just economic.

    The close economic integration we have witnessed post-1990 has led to reduced uncertainty in international economic relations, increased international security and greater prosperity.

    A return of the “beggar thy neighbour” policies of the 1930s would be a dangerous path, with the world inching closer to the abyss. “Liberation Day” might push the world over the edge.




    Read more:
    What are non-tariff barriers – and why is agriculture so exposed?


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

    – ref. These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars – https://theconversation.com/these-3-arguments-are-part-of-the-long-game-in-trumps-trade-wars-252516

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: ForexEKO Revolutionizes Classic Candlestick Trading with AI Automation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LIMASSOL, CYPRUS, March 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avenix Fzco announces the launch of ForexEKO, an AI-powered trading system that modernizes candlestick pattern analysis for precision trading. The trading world often talks about innovation, but some of the most effective strategies come from pairing old-school insights with modern technology. One of the clearest examples of this today is the revival of candlestick pattern trading, an age-old technique now getting a serious upgrade through automation and intelligent systems. At the center of this shift is ForexEKO, developed by Avenix Fzco, a trading system that brings new life to classic techniques using AI-driven pattern recognition and smart automation.

    Why Candlestick Patterns Still Matter

    Candlestick formations like the Hammer, Doji, and Engulfing have helped traders read market sentiment for decades. They tell a story about price movement – helping identify potential reversals or breakouts. But manually spotting these patterns takes time and experience, and even then, interpretation can vary. That’s where automated systems step in.

    Modern Tech, Classic Strategy

    ForexEKO enhances candlestick analysis by detecting and evaluating these formations using automated logic. This removes the guesswork, offering cleaner signals backed by historical data. By processing large datasets and eliminating inconsistencies in pattern recognition, ForexEKO helps traders make faster, more confident decisions.

    What Makes ForexEKO Stand Out

    • Multi-Layered Trading Logic: ForexEKO doesn’t rely on candlesticks alone. It blends price action with indicators like Moving Averages and Oscillators to validate patterns and reduce false entries.
    • Clear Risk Parameters: Every trade is secured with predefined Stop Loss and Take Profit levels. A global stop-loss mechanism adds extra protection, while a cautious martingale feature can assist in recovery without reckless exposure.
    • Backed by Real Data: ForexEKO has been optimized using high-quality tick data from Thinkberry SRL’s Tick Data Suite. This ensures the system is based on real conditions – not assumptions. The result is a track record of stable performance, with simulations showing potential returns of up to 100% yearly from a $10,000 deposit, all while maintaining low drawdowns.

    Looking Ahead

    The integration of AI into traditional trading strategies like candlestick analysis signifies a broader shift towards more sophisticated and reliable trading tools. As AI continues to evolve, its ability to process vast amounts of data and identify subtle patterns will further enhance the precision of trading strategies, benefiting both novice and experienced traders.​

    About ForexEKO

    ForexEKO is an Expert Advisor for MetaTrader 4, optimizing XAU/USD trading with advanced analysis and risk management. Designed for precision and consistency, it balances profitability with low drawdowns. Learn more at https://forexeko.com/.

    Media contact

    Brand: ForexEKO

    Contact: media team

    Email: support@forexeko.com

    Website: https://forexeko.com/

    The MIL Network –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Completing your April 2022 SDR

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 30 March 2022
    Last updated 30 March 2022

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    This section provides information to help you submit your April 2022 Single Data Return (SDR). It also contains a summary of changes for the April 2022 SDR.
    This section provides information to help you submit your April 2022 Single Data Return (SDR). It also contains a summary of changes for the April 2022 SDR.

    Dates for submitting your April 2022 SDR

    You can submit your April 2022 return anytime between 16 April 2022 and 29 April 2022.

    15 April 2022

    Extract date for the April 2022 SDR

    16 April 2022

    SDR Round opens

    29 April 2022

    SDR Round closes

    Resources and support
    When completing your return please refer to the latest version of the 2022 SDR manual, noting the ‘summary of changes for 2022’ page.

    For general assistance and help with course, qualification and delivery site approvals contact the TEC Customer Contact Group on 0800 601 301 or at customerservice@tec.govt.nz.
    For help accessing the STEO website and validation errors, contact the Ministry of Education Service Desk on 0800 422 599 or at service.desk@education.govt.nz.
    For those new to submitting SDRs there is a user guide that takes you through the process – step by step.
    We also recommend you check out the Funding Conditions app available via Ngā Kete. It will allow you to monitor your enrolment conditions for Youth Guarantee and SAC levels 1 and 2.

    Important points to note for your April 2022 SDR
    2022 changes to the SDR are now live. They are described in the latest SDR manual. In brief the changes are:

    Amended the Compulsory Course Costs (CCCOSTS) Fee description
    Added and updated codes for the Fees Assessment for International Students (ASSIST) field
    Updated the Maxima Exempt Fees’ description
    New Fees Free Eligibility code
    Updated Source of Funding error code descriptions

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Completing your December 2021 SDR

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 17 December 2021
    Last updated 17 December 2021

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    Share

    This section provides information to help you submit your December 2021 Single Data Return (SDR). It also contains a summary of changes for the April 2022 SDR.
    This section provides information to help you submit your December 2021 Single Data Return (SDR). It also contains a summary of changes for the April 2022 SDR.

    Dates for submitting your December 2021 SDR

    You can submit your December 2021 return anytime between 1 January 2022 and 31 January 2022.
    If you have already uploaded your SDR files for validation, please ensure you upload them again after 1 January 2022.

    31 December 2021

    Extract date for the December 2021 SDR

    1 January 2022

    SDR Round opens

    31 January 2022

    SDR Round closes

    Resources and support
    When completing your return please refer to the latest version of the 2021 SDR manual, noting the ‘summary of changes for 2021’ page.

    For general assistance and help with course, qualification and delivery site approvals contact the TEC Customer Contact Group on 0800 601 301 or at customerservice@tec.govt.nz. Please note the Customer Contact Group will be closed for the Christmas break from 12pm Wednesday 22 December and will reopen at 8.30am Monday 10 January 2022.
    For help accessing the STEO website and validation errors, contact the Ministry of Education Service Desk on 0800 422 599 or at service.desk@education.govt.nz. Please note the Service Desk will be closed for the Christmas break from Friday 24 December and will reopen at 7.30am Wednesday 5 January 2022.
    For those new to submitting SDRs there is a user guide that takes you through the process – step by step.
    We also recommend you check out the Funding Conditions app available via Ngā Kete. It will allow you to monitor your enrolment conditions for Youth Guarantee and SAC levels 1 and 2.

    Important points to note for your December 2021 SDR
    Upload your workforce questionnaire (Staff return) before you submit your December 2021 SDR. Please upload the new 2021 workforce questionnaire, or Staff return, to the STEO website before you submit your December 2021 SDR. Any old files will not work. Your December 2021 SDR will not be accepted without a processed workforce questionnaire. You may need to source this information from a different person or team in your organisation prior to the Christmas break, so this does not hold up your January submission. Find more information about workforce questionnaires on the education website.
    Fees Free. Please ensure all learners reported in your monthly ‘Fees Free All Enrolments and Costs Actuals’ are included in your December 2021 SDR, enrolment information should match between the two returns.
    Reminder about SAC 3+ Limits and Source of Funding (SoF) codes. As we have previously communicated, Student Achievement Component level 3 and above (SAC 3+) delivery must not exceed 105 percent. If you are forecasting your delivery will exceed 105 percent, please inform your relationship manager or advisor as soon as possible.
    Courses that have been approved for SAC 3+ funding should usually be reported in the SDR under SoF 01 as explained on the TEC website. 
    Changes for the April 2022 SDR
    The 2022 SDR manual has been released and the following changes have been made:

    Amended the Compulsory Course Costs (CCCOSTS) Fee description
    Added and updated codes for the Fees Assessment for International Students (ASSIST) field
    Updated the Maxima Exempt Fees’ description
    New Fees Free Eligibility code

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: China, Japan, ROK economic, trade ministers pledge to deepen trilateral cooperation

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China is committed to high-quality development and expanding high-level openness, vowing to share opportunities with all nations, including the Republic of Korea (ROK) and Japan, said Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao on Sunday.

    Amid the downward pressure on the global economy, China, Japan and ROK, as major regional and global economies, have to make joint efforts to safeguard free trade and multilateral trading system, oppose unilateralism and protectionism, and advance regional economic integration, said Wang at the 13th China-Japan-ROK Trilateral Economic and Trade Ministers’ Meeting held in Seoul on Sunday.

    The trilateral meeting, focused on topics such as strengthening trade and investment collaboration and advancing regional and multilateral cooperation, was co-chaired by Wang Wentao, ROK’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Duk-geun, and Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yoji Muto.

    At the meeting, the economic and trade departments of the three countries agreed to discuss accelerating negotiations on the trilateral free trade agreement, strengthen supply chain cooperation and dialogue on export control, deepen collaboration in digital and green economies, enhance local cooperation, and jointly foster a favorable environment for business collaboration.

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign business leaders reaffirm China as oasis of certainty

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Participants attend the China Development Forum 2025 in Beijing, capital of China, March 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    In a world haunted by growing protectionism, China has continuously expanded opening up, injecting stability into the global economy, and has become an oasis of certainty and a hot spot for investment and entrepreneurship.

    This is the belief shared by more than 40 representatives of the international business community who met in Beijing on Friday with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    From the China Development Forum 2025 in Beijing to the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 in south China’s Hainan Province, foreign executives have reaffirmed their commitment to China as a key market for investment and collaboration. They noted China’s complete industrial system, rich application scenarios, vast market scale and large talent pool, which combine to offer extensive collaboration opportunities for international industrial and technological innovation.

    Investing in China, investing in future

    China’s reform and opening up continue to draw global attention. Riding the wave created by China’s high-level opening-up endeavors, foreign companies are leveraging the advantages of the world’s second-largest economy and participating in its innovation pursuit, aiming at win-win cooperation.

    “We have been very proud to play a role in China’s development, enabling and connecting China to the world,” said Sean Stein, president of the U.S.-China Business Council, adding that China has grown into the world’s second-largest consumer market, presenting vast opportunities for multinational operators to invest and expand their businesses.

    Foreign business operations and investments in China have driven economic growth and employment, boosted technological and managerial progress, and facilitated reform and opening up. In this process, foreign businesses have thrived and generally enjoyed handsome returns, achieved win-win results, and forged profound friendship with the Chinese people.

    In 2024, a total of 59,080 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in China, up 9.9 percent year on year. Over the past five years, the return rate of foreign direct investment in the country has remained at approximately 9 percent, ranking among the highest in the world.

    “We invest in infrastructure that supports domestic consumption. A prosperous Chinese consumer is good for our business,” said Hamid R. Moghadam, chairman and CEO of Prologis.

    “We are more than 30 years now in China, and we have several production hubs. For us, it’s a very large market. China also is a very attractive market with a lot of opportunities today, in the past, but also in the future — and that’s why we’re here,” said Christian Hartel, president & CEO of Wacker Chemie AG.

    “So we keep investing, and we have very great people here on the ground in China, who are very innovative. We develop and produce products for the Chinese market, and also feel very positive for the outlook in the future,” he added.

    Merchants visit the “Invest in China” area of the 24th China International Fair for Investment and Trade in Xiamen, southeast China’s Fujian Province, Sept. 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    All eyes on new quality productive forces

    Foreign investment plays a significant role in fostering new quality productive forces, and China supports the participation of foreign enterprises in its new industrialization, with a focus on high-tech fields, according to an action plan to stabilize foreign investment in 2025, which was approved by a State Council executive meeting in February.

    The nation’s emphasis on innovation as a driver for high-quality growth resonated strongly with the foreign business representatives.

    They said that from “Made in China” to “new quality productive forces,” China has empowered industrial transformation and upgrading through innovation, and is set to realize higher-quality and more sustainable development. These foreign business representatives have reached the consensus that the outlook of the Chinese economy is strong.

    “Today there are multiple signs of investment on optimism,” said Jean-Pascal Tricoire, chairman of Schneider Electric, adding that China’s promotion of green development aligns with Schneider’s goal of pursuing sustainability, instilling confidence in enterprises to advance investment, research and development in China.

    This photo taken on Nov. 9, 2024 shows the booth of Schneider Electric during the 7th China International Import Expo in east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

    “We remain committed to the country, not only as a market, but as a strategic hub for innovation, investment and collaboration,” said Geoff Martha, chairman and CEO of Medtronic. He emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation collaboration in China and expressed the hope of jointly promoting the innovative development of global healthcare via continued investments in China.

    Beijing Benz, the joint venture between Beijing Automotive Group Co., Ltd. and Mercedes-Benz, in March 2024 marked the milestone of producing its 5 millionth vehicle. Later, in September 2024, Mercedes-Benz and its Chinese partners announced an additional 14 billion yuan (about 1.92 billion U.S. dollars) investment to expand their product offerings in the region.

    Ola Kallenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, also praised China’s innovation-driven market. “China’s competitive advantage lies in its passion for innovation,” he said. “That is why Mercedes-Benz continues to deepen its presence in China.”

    A Mercedes-Benz G-Class electric off-road vehicle is pictured during an unveiling ceremony at the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in Beijing, capital of China, April 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Open collaboration for shared future

    Against the backdrop of rising unilateralism and protectionism in the world economy, China has vowed to expand high-standard opening up, while keeping foreign trade and foreign investment stable.

    China is an oasis of certainty, according to Aramco President and CEO Amin H. Nasser. “What we see today in the global environment is uncertainty. We are seeing unpredictability, and we need China’s stability, certainty and predictability that we are seeing,” Nasser explained.

    “I think for us exactly in these times of uncertainties, having the commitment from President Xi and from the Chinese government in general to show consistency in their approach, to continue with their focus on multilateralism, on providing a level playing field, and on opening up… these are very powerful messages of stability in a world that really needs stability at this time,” said Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk.

    “We have been in China for a little bit more than 60 years, and we are now planning for our next 60 years, for Inter IKEA here in China. We are very confident in China, and in how China and IKEA can grow together,” said Jon Abrahamsson Ring, CEO of Inter IKEA Group.

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Step length, a devastating finish and ‘springs in his spikes’: the science behind Gout Gout’s speed

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dylan Hicks, Lecturer & Movement Scientist / PhD Sports Biomechanics, Flinders University

    2024 Chemist Warehouse Australian All Schools Championships live stream, Australian Athletics

    Every now and then an athlete comes along who makes people wonder, “how are they so fast?”

    Let me introduce you to Gout Gout.

    Gout is a 17-year-old sprint sensation from Australia, whose blistering 100m and 200m times have drawn comparison to none other than Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt.

    While he was edged out over 200 metres in Melbourne last weekend by 21-year-old Lachlan Kennedy – recent 60-metre world indoor silver medallist who is a rising sprinter poised to break the ten-second barrier for 100 metres – Gout’s performances continue to signal a bright future on the track.

    In a seven-month period since last August, Gout has:

    • won silver in the 200m at the World Junior Championships (20.60 seconds, -0.7 metres/second wind)
    • broken Peter Norman’s long-standing Australian 200m record (20.04 seconds, +1.5m/s)
    • two weeks ago in Brisbane, smashed through the magical 20-second barrier for the 200m, recording a world-leading 19.98 seconds (+3.6m/s), albeit wind-aided (anything greater than 2.0 metres/second is considered wind-aided).

    But what makes Gout so fast?

    Is it his explosive start, long stride, top speed or smooth technique?

    The answer, as with all athletic outliers, is likely a combination of several unique attributes.

    Let’s dive into the science.

    The science of sprinting

    Sprinting is an ongoing battle of force and mass.

    Gravity is pulling the athlete’s body mass down. Meanwhile, the athlete must apply muscular force into the track to keep the body upright.

    Research suggests the world’s fastest sprinters generate the highest ground reaction force relative to their body mass and apply it in the shortest period, in the right direction (more horizontally in acceleration and more vertically at top speed).

    At 5’11” (180cm) and 66kg, Gout does not display the muscular physiques of past champion sprinters including Asafa Powell (Jamaica), Justin Gatlin (the USA), or Australia’s own Matt Shirvington. Yet his performances suggest is he redefining the archetype of elite sprinting.

    For anyone who has run at school, you know the difficulty of holding your top speed for the duration of a 200-metre race.

    But Gout defies logic. His speed endurance (maintaining speed) sets him apart from nearly all athletes.

    And not just compared to his age group, although he currently sits second on the all-time under-18 200-metre list behind US runner Erriyon Knighton.

    Gout’s speed endurance is up there with the best in 200-metre history: Bolt, Michael Johnson or Noah Lyles. Each of them has won multiple Olympic medals.

    The fastest official 100-200 metre segment (the final 100 metres of the race) ever run in a 200-metre event is 9.16 seconds by American Lyles, on his way to winning the 2022 world athletics championships in Oregon (19.31 seconds overall).

    In Gout’s recent performance in Brisbane, he completed this segment of the race in 9.31 seconds. Bolt and Johnson’s best 100-200 metre segment is 9.27 and 9.20 seconds respectively.

    This statistic puts Gout in elite company.

    The magic of Gout

    Closer analysis of Gout’s performance highlights some sprinting anomalies.

    He covers the first 100m of the race in 10.67 seconds, which is quite slow relative to his finishing time of 19.98.

    For comparison, when Bolt broke the 200-metre world record in 2009 (19.19 seconds), he ran 9.92 seconds on the curve (and 9.27 seconds on the straight).

    But once Gout enters the straight, his magic is on full display.

    Gout has an average step length of 2.60 metres. Bolt’s average step length in his 100-metre world record performance was 2.45m, with Lyles displaying a similar result, 2.35m, in his 100-metre win in Paris.

    This allows Gout to take between 3.75-4 steps for each ten-metre segment, which he covers at an average speed of 10.8m/s (or 38.8km/h). Like Bolt, his step length is a huge advantage over his competitors.

    However, there is a trade-off with step length and step frequency.

    Gout’s longer-than-average step length reduces his average step frequency to 4.15Hz (steps per second), much lower than Bolt who averaged 4.47Hz when at his best.

    However, research highlights elite sprinters are reliant on either step length or frequency, and athletes should train to their strengths, rather than fixing their weaknesses.

    So this may not be an area of concern for the teenager.

    Gout also displays a unique coordination pattern in how he interacts with the ground: the way he strikes the track with his feet almost makes it look like he has springs in his spikes.

    Well, we all do in a sense.

    Elastic energy is stored and released in our Achilles tendon which acts as a muscle power amplifier during running.

    Longer Achilles tendon length and stiffness play a huge role in sprint efficiency. This allows athletes to move at faster speeds for longer periods at a reduced energy cost, and may be another one’s of Gout advantages over his contemporaries.

    A bright future

    At 17, Gout’s performances are out of this world.

    The way he generates and maintains speed challenges some conventional paradigms in sprinting – namely that raw power and muscle mass are the primary determinants of speed.

    With most elite sprinters peaking in their mid-20s, Gout’s performances at this stage of his career are even more noteworthy.

    His success likely highlights the role of his unique coordination patterns, biomechanics, technical efficiency, hard work and great coaching all bundled together.

    Gout has already rewritten Australian sprinting history. Next up, he’s taking on the world.

    Just don’t blink – he’s that fast, you might miss him.

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

    – ref. Step length, a devastating finish and ‘springs in his spikes’: the science behind Gout Gout’s speed – https://theconversation.com/step-length-a-devastating-finish-and-springs-in-his-spikes-the-science-behind-gout-gouts-speed-252629

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – RBNZ outlines work to support competition

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    31 March 2025 – Today the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Te Pūtea Matua appeared before the Finance and Expenditure Committee (FEC) for their banking inquiry and discussed the wide range of initiatives underway to support and improve competition in the banking sector.

    Chair Neil Quigley, Acting Governor Christian Hawkesby, Director Prudential Policy Jess Rowe, and Financial Stability Adviser Charles Lilly appeared before the committee.

    The RBNZ’s statutory purpose is to promote prosperity and wellbeing for all New Zealanders. This is achieved through its three core objectives: price stability, financial stability and central banking, which includes managing monetary policy, overseeing payment systems and ensuring access to cash. Competition is important across all these objectives.

    “We have never had more focus on competition across our functions, including addressing the recommendations of the Commerce Commission’s market study,” Mr Hawkesby said.

    Key initiatives likely to support competition include developing proportionate prudential standards, launching the depositor compensation scheme, expanding access to the payments system, investigating a digital currency and working with CoFR partners on system-wide issues such as a payments vision for New Zealand.

    “Advancing competition and innovation in the financial sector is a team effort across government agencies, regulators and the industry itself,” Mr Hawkesby said.

    The RBNZ’s submission to the FEC outlines that the greatest gains to be made are through advancing open banking, customer data rights, digital identity, and the retail payments infrastructure to deliver an eco-system where competition can flourish.

    “Through our consultation on the new Deposit Takers Act and submissions to the FEC, we have heard the claims that our bank capital regime is unreasonably conservative, and that it is undermining competition and growth in the New Zealand economy. We think that some of those claims are incorrect, but most of the claims can be tested empirically and we consider that it is important that we respond by undertaking this assessment,” Professor Quigley said.

    “The Reserve Bank Board has agreed to an evidence-based review of key aspects of our deposit takers capital settings, utilising international experts and assessing it against the regimes in other countries,” Professor Quigley said.

    The full opening statements from Mr Hawkesby and Professor Quigley can be read below.

    What is capital?
    Capital is the buffer that allows a bank to absorb losses while still being able to pay its depositors and other creditors in full

    What will the review cover?
    The Reserve Bank intends to conduct a reassessment of key capital settings. We intend to engage independent international experts to support this process.
    The review will build on work currently underway to review more granular risk weights for residential mortgages and corporate (including rural) lending, community housing and whenua Māori lending, as well as development of a new crisis management framework. The review will expand the work programme to include consideration of additional evidence and the calibration of other foundational aspects of the regime including:

    • Reviewing submissions or statements made at the FEC banking enquiry regarding our prudential capital framework
    • An assessment of how our capital settings compare internationally
    • A reassessment of the appropriate risk appetite for capital settings in New Zealand
    • Reviewing the degree of proportionality in the framework and considering changes
    • Considering the balance between going concern and gone concern capital and the role of ‘Additional Tier 1’ capital.  

    What does this mean for the planned increase in capital requirements on 1 July?

    • Following a review over 2017-2019, the Reserve Bank announced higher capital requirements, a long transition period to 2028. For Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs), total requirements are scheduled to go from 10.5% to 18%. Current requirements are 13.5%.
    • Requirements for smaller banks are scheduled to go from 10.5% to 16%, and current requirements are 11.5%.
    • There is a scheduled increase in capital requirements on 1 July 2025 of a 1% of risk weighted assets increase in the Prudential Capital Buffer (PCB) for all banks.
    • Banks are well advanced in their plans to meet the new requirements. On average, banks’ total capital levels are currently above 16%.
    • Accordingly, we intend to proceed with the 1 July increase, taking total requirements for D-SIBs to 14.5% and other banks to 12.5%.
    • The review will be conducted promptly to allow for any changes to be well signalled ahead of next year’s scheduled increase and to minimise the impact on the implementation of the Deposit Takers Act.

    More information

    Opening remarks to Finance and Expenditure Committee : https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=af07ace568&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Championing Alberta wood products in Texas

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. tech companies will be on display at world’s largest tech show

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Twenty-two B.C. companies and universities will promote the province’s unique technology products and services in Germany at Hannover Messe 2025, the world’s largest tradeshow for industrial and energy technologies.

    “As we expand our trade diversification globally, we’re proud to showcase B.C.’s solutions to the challenges of advancing AI, improving energy efficiency and the impacts of climate change worldwide,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “This is the largest number of B.C. companies that have chosen to travel to this event. Advancing our trade and investment opportunities on this global stage will open new markets for B.C.’s economy to grow and prosper.”

    B.C. companies in attendance represent key sectors, including energy transition and critical minerals, clean technology, information and communications technology, creating more opportunities for B.C. businesses to export and attract investment, driving sustainable and innovative growth. B.C. will host a number of activations, events and panels.

    “B.C.’s reputation as a reliable trading partner with innovative solutions, a highly skilled workforce, and strong environmental, social and governance credentials will be a focal point during Hannover Messe 2025,” said Rick Glumac, Minister of State for Trade. “The companies participating at this tradeshow are just a sample of the breadth of innovation and investment opportunities available in B.C.”

    Canada is the partner country for Hannover Messe 2025, taking place in Hannover, Germany, from Monday, March 31, 2025, until Friday, April 4, 2025. More than 250 exhibitors and 260 delegates from Canada will showcase their industrial technology solutions and share their expertise in six pavilions, highlighting Canada’s strengths in artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital solutions, quantum technologies, robotics, advanced materials and clean-energy technologies.

    “The spotlight will definitely be on Team Canada at Hannover this year,” said Jayson Myers, chief executive officer of Next Generation Manufacturing Canada, the organization leading Canada’s industrial presence at the fair. “And it couldn’t come at a better time. The Hannover fair attracts close to 200,000 buyers, suppliers and investors from more than 150 countries. There’s no better place to showcase the leading-edge industrial technologies that Canada has to offer the world.”

    B.C.’s deputy minister of jobs, economic development and innovation will lead the mainstage panel on Energy Transition – Innovation & the Bottom Line. This panel will showcase B.C.’s leadership in robotics, automation and advancing hydrogen technology, and will outline the important role governments play in leading and fostering innovation.

    In addition to the activities at Hannover Messe 2025, the deputy minister will have meetings with international investors and clients to strengthen B. C.’s economy in key sectors, particularly energy transition and critical minerals, clean technology, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

    Quick Facts:

    • Hannover Messe 2025 brings representatives together from more than 150 countries.
    • It offers the opportunity to discover new industrial and energy technologies and learn about the latest innovations and trends in advanced manufacturing.
    • Hannover Messe 2025 brings together decision-makers from government and global businesses, providing a platform to discuss industrial trends and transformations.
    • The week-long event typically attracts 6,000 exhibitors and more than 200,000 attendees.

    Learn More:

    For more information about trade and investment in B.C., visit: https://britishcolumbia.ca

    To read the Trade Diversification Strategy, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/international-investment-and-trade/trade-diversification-strategy

    For more information about the companies attending the Hannover Messe 2025 tradeshow, visit: https://www.britishcolumbia.ca/wp-content/uploads/Company-Directory_Hannover_Messe.pdf

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: SIU to probe National Skills Fund, DPWI, among others

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed five proclamations – two new and three amendments – authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of the National Skills Fund and the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.  

    In addition, the President has amended existing proclamations to expand the scope of investigations into the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Eskom, PetroSA, Transnet, South African Airways (SAA), the Department of Human Settlements, Alexkor, and the South African Council for Educators (SACE). 

    In a statement on Friday, the SIU said these investigations aim to recover financial losses suffered by the State. 

    National Skills Fund 

    “Proclamation 253 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of the Department of Higher Education and Training, and the possible mismanagement of funds allocated to the National Skills Fund (NSF),” the SIU said. 

    The investigation will focus on procurement and contracting for the implementation of skills development programmes, training projects, and the appointment of implementing agents for the following projects: 

    • Yikhonolakho Woman and Youth Primary Co-operative Limited (NSF 16/1/3/21)
    • Dithipe Development Institute (Pty) Limited
    • Dzunde Farming Co-operative Limited – Rural Development
    • Dual System Apprenticeship Pilot Project – Port Elizabeth TVET College (NSF10/3/8/2/9)
    • Rubicon Communication CC
    • Centre for Education Policy Development (Fruitless & Wasteful Expenditure) — NSF 16/2/1/2 & NSF 10/4/4/3
    • Emanzini Staffing Solutions (Pty) Limited (NSF16/1/4/55 and/or 2016-NSFWIL — 0174)
    • ADA Holdings (NSF16/1/4/5, Ingewe TVET College — NSF/16/3/2/2 & Lusikisiki/ Bizana — NSF/16/1/2/3)
    • Ekurhuleni West TVET College (NSF16/1/2/39)
    • Passionate about People (Pty) Limited (NSF/16/1/3/12&16). 

    Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure by the NSF or the department. 

    The scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 January 2013 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period.

    National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure 

    Proclamation 256 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) relating to the appointment of travel agents in 2017 for the rendering of travel agency services, including flights, accommodation, and vehicle hire. 

    “The investigation will determine whether these appointments and related payments were conducted in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective; contrary to applicable legislation; or inconsistent with Treasury instructions, departmental manuals, policies, procedures, or other applicable prescripts. 

    “The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the Department and any unlawful or improper conduct by officials, employees, service providers, or any other parties involved in the procurement of these services,” the SIU said. 

    The SIU added that the scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 March 2017 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period. 

    Amendment of Proclamation No. R.206 of 2024 

    Proclamation 252 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.206 of 2024 to reflect the full scope of the SIU’s investigation into several state institutions. 

    The amendment corrects and clarifies the entities under investigation, which include the South African Broadcasting Corporation SOC Limited (SABC), Eskom Holdings SOC Limited, the Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (PetroSA), Transnet SOC Limited, South African Airways SOC Limited (SAA), and the National Department of Human Settlements (formerly known as the National Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation). 

    The amendment substitutes the heading and paragraph 1 of the original Proclamation to formally add South African Airways as a state institution which will be subjected to an investigation of allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, and unlawful conduct in the affairs of these state institutions. 

    Amendment of Alexkor investigation to include additional institutions and broader scope 

    Proclamation 254 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.45 of 2021 to broaden the scope of the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) investigation beyond Alexkor SOC Limited. 

    The amendment now includes the Alexkor Richtersveld Mining Company Pooling and Sharing Joint Venture and the State Diamond Trader—collectively referred to as “the Institutions.” The amendment updates several references throughout the original Proclamation to reflect this expanded scope. 

    “The amended Proclamation authorises the SIU to investigate the procurement of and contracting for goods or services by or on behalf of the Institutions in relation to the marketing, valuation, sale (including decisions not to buy), and beneficiation of diamonds, and any income generated or lost, or payments made in respect thereof. 

    “The investigation will consider whether such conduct was contrary to applicable legislation, Treasury instructions, or the Institutions’ own policies and procedures,” the SIU said. 

    The SIU will also probe serious maladministration in the affairs of Alexkor SOC Limited in respect of contracts concluded with, and fees paid to, Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited. 

    The SIU will also investigate any related unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the Institutions, as well as fraudulent, irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by Board members, officials, employees, agents, service providers, traders, auctioneers, bidders, or buyers—particularly where such conduct resulted in undue benefit or concealed interests. 

    In addition, the Proclamation authorises the SIU to probe serious maladministration in the affairs of the institutions in respect of agreements or contracts with service providers and other diamond trade actors and specifically empowers the SIU to investigate contracts concluded with and fees paid to Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited by Alexkor SOC Limited. 

    The amended scope covers conduct occurring between 1 January 2014 (previously 1 October 2016) and the date of publication of this Proclamation and includes related matters outside this period if they are relevant to the investigation. 

    “Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.” 

    In accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during these investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. 

    The SIU is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to recover financial losses to the State resulting from acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    March 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Cambodia-China economic, trade cooperation provides mutual benefit, win-win results: official

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

    Cambodia-China economic, trade cooperation provides mutual benefit, win-win results: official

    PHNOM PENH, March 30 — Cambodia-China economic and trade cooperation has provided tremendous benefits and win-win results, a senior commerce official said on Friday.

    The Cambodian Ministry of Commerce’s Secretary of State and spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said key achievements under this cooperation included the Sihanoukville Special Economy Zone, the Phnom Penh Sihanoukville Expressway, and the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.

    “These mega-projects are prime examples of practical cooperation in economics and trade between Cambodia and China and are also the fruits of cooperation between the two countries under the Belt and Road Initiative,” he told Xinhua.

    “These projects have importantly contributed to boosting Cambodia’s economy, trade, manufacturing industry, connectivity infrastructure, tourism, and logistics,” he added.

    Sovicheat said that the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and the Techo International Airport, which is scheduled to open to commercial operations in July 2025, will play a vital role in handling the remarkably growing number of tourists.

    “Moreover, the simultaneous entry into force of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement on Jan. 1, 2022, have also laid a strong foundation for Cambodia and China to enhance their trade and investment relations,” Sovicheat said.

    Under these trade pacts, a number of Cambodian products, especially high-quality agricultural produce such as milled rice, yellow bananas, mangoes, longans, and peppercorn, as well as some wild aquatic products have been exported to China with preferential tariffs, he added.

    The spokesperson said China is a huge market for made-in-Cambodia products and the two countries enjoy steady and positive trade growth every year.

    He said both countries have also enjoyed good cooperation in e-commerce as many types of made-in-Cambodia products have been put up for sale on Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Alibaba.

    “China is a trustworthy partner for Cambodia,” he said. “Looking forward, our two-way trade volume will continue to rise, undoubtedly.”

    Sovicheat said since 2023, the two countries have also worked together to develop an “Industrial Development Corridor” and a “Fish and Rice Corridor.”

    “The Industrial Development Corridor is crucial to support the transformation of coastal Sihanoukville into a model multipurpose special economic zone, while the Fish and Rice Corridor is vital to develop modern ecological agriculture near the Tonle Sap Lake,” he said.

    In conclusion, he said, all these cooperation mechanisms will inject stronger momentum into broadening bilateral economic, trade, and investment relations for mutual greater benefits towards building a high-quality, high-level, and high-standard Cambodia-China community with a shared future in the new era.

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day of Zero Waste [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video: 
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+Intl+Day+of+Zero+Waste+7+Feb+25/3336952_MSG+SG+INTL+DAY+OF+ZERO+WASTE+07+FEB+25.mp4

    This year’s International Day of Zero Waste puts the focus on fashion and textiles.

    And rightly so.

    Earth is a fashion victim.

    Textile production often uses thousands of chemicals – many of them harmful to people and the environment. 

    It devours resources, like land and water.

    And it belches out greenhouse gases – inflaming the climate crisis.

    Yet clothes are being produced at a staggering rate.

    And textile wastage is huge: every second, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of clothing is incinerated or sent to landfill. 

    We need a different approach:

    One that delivers on the commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable production and consumption.

    There are signs of hope.

    Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability.

    Important initiatives are bringing together business, industry associations, civil society, and more to drive sustainability across the sector.

    They include the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action – convened by the United Nations – and the Fashion Pact, launched by the Government of France.

    And the United Nations Advisory Board on Zero Waste is uniting partners to end waste – including from textiles – and to help meet the SDGs.

    But we must do more to secure change:

    Consumers through their choices;

    Young people and civil society through advocacy;

    Governments through regulations promoting sustainability and decent jobs;

    And businesses through embracing circularity, waste reduction and resource efficiency across their supply chains.

    On this International Day for Zero Waste, let’s all commit to ensure fashion sense makes good sense for people and planet.

    ***

    Cette année, la Journée internationale du zéro déchet est consacrée à la mode et aux textiles.

    Et pour cause !

    La Terre est victime de la mode.

    La fabrication des textiles fait souvent appel à des milliers de substances chimiques, dont beaucoup sont nocives pour les êtres humains et l’environnement.

    Elle dévore les ressources telles que la terre et l’eau.

    Et émet des gaz à effet de serre, aggravant la crise climatique.

    Pourtant, on produit des vêtements à un rythme effréné.

    Le gaspillage textile est énorme : chaque seconde, l’équivalent d’un camion à ordures rempli de vêtements est incinéré ou mis en décharge.

    Nous devons adopter une approche différente,

    qui permette de tenir les promesses des objectifs de développement durable en matière de production et de consommation.

    Il y a des lueurs d’espoir.

    Les consommateurs exigent de plus en plus des pratiques durables.

    D’importantes initiatives rassemblent les entreprises, les associations industrielles, les acteurs de la société civile et d’autres acteurs afin de promouvoir la durabilité dans l’ensemble du secteur.

    Il s’agit notamment de la Charte de l’industrie de la mode pour l’action climatique, établie par l’ONU, et du Fashion Pact, lancé par le Gouvernement français.

    À l’ONU, le Conseil consultatif pour le zéro déchet réunit actuellement des partenaires pour mettre fin à la production de déchets, notamment textiles, et contribuer à la réalisation des objectifs de développement durable.

    Mais nous devons faire plus pour ancrer le changement :

    les consommateurs, par leurs choix ;

    les jeunes et la société civile, grâce à des activités de sensibilisation ;

    les gouvernements, au moyen de réglementations favorisant la durabilité et les emplois décents ;

    les entreprises, en embrassant l’économie circulaire, la réduction des déchets et l’emploi efficace des ressources dans leurs chaînes d’approvisionnement.

    En cette Journée internationale du zéro déchet, engageons-nous à faire en sorte que la mode ait du sens pour les populations et pour la planète.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day of Zero Waste [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video: 
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+Intl+Day+of+Zero+Waste+7+Feb+25/3336952_MSG+SG+INTL+DAY+OF+ZERO+WASTE+07+FEB+25.mp4

    This year’s International Day of Zero Waste puts the focus on fashion and textiles.

    And rightly so.

    Earth is a fashion victim.

    Textile production often uses thousands of chemicals – many of them harmful to people and the environment. 

    It devours resources, like land and water.

    And it belches out greenhouse gases – inflaming the climate crisis.

    Yet clothes are being produced at a staggering rate.

    And textile wastage is huge: every second, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of clothing is incinerated or sent to landfill. 

    We need a different approach:

    One that delivers on the commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable production and consumption.

    There are signs of hope.

    Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability.

    Important initiatives are bringing together business, industry associations, civil society, and more to drive sustainability across the sector.

    They include the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action – convened by the United Nations – and the Fashion Pact, launched by the Government of France.

    And the United Nations Advisory Board on Zero Waste is uniting partners to end waste – including from textiles – and to help meet the SDGs.

    But we must do more to secure change:

    Consumers through their choices;

    Young people and civil society through advocacy;

    Governments through regulations promoting sustainability and decent jobs;

    And businesses through embracing circularity, waste reduction and resource efficiency across their supply chains.

    On this International Day for Zero Waste, let’s all commit to ensure fashion sense makes good sense for people and planet.

    ***

    Cette année, la Journée internationale du zéro déchet est consacrée à la mode et aux textiles.

    Et pour cause !

    La Terre est victime de la mode.

    La fabrication des textiles fait souvent appel à des milliers de substances chimiques, dont beaucoup sont nocives pour les êtres humains et l’environnement.

    Elle dévore les ressources telles que la terre et l’eau.

    Et émet des gaz à effet de serre, aggravant la crise climatique.

    Pourtant, on produit des vêtements à un rythme effréné.

    Le gaspillage textile est énorme : chaque seconde, l’équivalent d’un camion à ordures rempli de vêtements est incinéré ou mis en décharge.

    Nous devons adopter une approche différente,

    qui permette de tenir les promesses des objectifs de développement durable en matière de production et de consommation.

    Il y a des lueurs d’espoir.

    Les consommateurs exigent de plus en plus des pratiques durables.

    D’importantes initiatives rassemblent les entreprises, les associations industrielles, les acteurs de la société civile et d’autres acteurs afin de promouvoir la durabilité dans l’ensemble du secteur.

    Il s’agit notamment de la Charte de l’industrie de la mode pour l’action climatique, établie par l’ONU, et du Fashion Pact, lancé par le Gouvernement français.

    À l’ONU, le Conseil consultatif pour le zéro déchet réunit actuellement des partenaires pour mettre fin à la production de déchets, notamment textiles, et contribuer à la réalisation des objectifs de développement durable.

    Mais nous devons faire plus pour ancrer le changement :

    les consommateurs, par leurs choix ;

    les jeunes et la société civile, grâce à des activités de sensibilisation ;

    les gouvernements, au moyen de réglementations favorisant la durabilité et les emplois décents ;

    les entreprises, en embrassant l’économie circulaire, la réduction des déchets et l’emploi efficace des ressources dans leurs chaînes d’approvisionnement.

    En cette Journée internationale du zéro déchet, engageons-nous à faire en sorte que la mode ait du sens pour les populations et pour la planète.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: India-US trade talks held in New Delhi

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Trade officials from India and the United States concluded their four-day parleys on Saturday, with both sides resolving to deepen bilateral cooperation in priority areas, including increasing market access, said a statement issued by India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

    The officials decided to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, and deepen supply chain integration in a mutually beneficial manner, added the statement.

    The trade talks were held as a follow-up to the February India-U.S. Joint Statement, in which the two sides agreed to expand bilateral trade to reach 500 billion U.S. dollars by 2030, including through the conclusion of a Bilateral Trade Agreement.

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Crackdown on illegal working and rogue employers in ‘gig economy’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Crackdown on illegal working and rogue employers in ‘gig economy’

    In the latest move to restore order to the asylum and immigration system, the government will introduce tough new laws to clamp down on illegal working.

    Companies hiring people in the gig economy will now be legally required to carry out checks confirming that anyone working in their name is eligible to work in the UK, bringing them in line with other employers. These vital checks, which take just minutes to complete, confirm someone’s immigration status and allow them to legally work in the UK.

    This means that for the very first time, employment checks will be extended to cover businesses hiring gig economy and zero-hours workers in sectors like construction, food delivery, beauty salons and courier services.

    Currently, thousands of companies using these flexible arrangements are not legally required to check the status of these workers. This changes now.

    Where businesses fail to carry out these checks, they will face hefty penalties already in place for those hiring illegal workers in traditional roles, including fines of up to £60,000 per worker, business closures, director disqualifications and potential prison sentences of up to 5 years.

    Expanding illegal working checks will help level the playing field for the majority of honest companies who do the right thing. For example, Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats already voluntarily carry out checks to ensure their delivery riders are eligible to work.

    Clamping down on illegal working forms a critical part of the government’s plan to strengthen the entire immigration system, restoring tough enforcement of the rules and undermine people smugglers using the false promise of jobs for migrants.

    The announcement comes a day before the UK holds the first ever Organised Immigration Crime Summit, bringing together over 40 countries to agree unprecedented new international action to take down every aspect of criminal smuggling gangs’ tactics.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 

    Under our Plan for Change, we are restoring order to the asylum and immigration system by introducing tougher laws and bolstering enforcement action to tackle illegal working and stopping rogue employers in their tracks.

    Turning a blind eye to illegal working plays into the hands of callous people smugglers trying to sell spaces on flimsy, overcrowded boats with the promise of work and a life in the UK.

    These exploitative practices are often an attempt to undercut competitors who are doing the right thing. But we are clear that the rules need to be respected and enforced.

    These new laws build on significant efforts to stop organised immigration crime and protect the integrity of our borders, including increasing raids and arrests  for illegal working and getting returns of people who have no right to be here to their highest rate in half a decade.

    Claire Pointon, Managing Director, Just Eat UK and Ireland said:

    Just Eat is committed to supporting high streets and communities by ensuring a fair and well-regulated rapid delivery sector. Preventing unauthorised work is key to this, which is why we’re strengthening our measures by introducing biometric checks to swiftly remove those without the correct authorisation to work in the UK. We welcome this decision from the Home Office to expand these requirements to other sectors.

    A Deliveroo spokesperson said:

    Deliveroo has led the industry in taking action to secure our platform against illegal working, developing our approach in close collaboration with the Home Office. We were the first to roll out direct right to work checks, a registration process, daily identity verification and now additional device checks for riders, including substitutes. We take our responsibilities extremely seriously and will continue to strengthen our controls to prevent misuse of our platform. We welcome the government taking action to ensure all businesses and sectors adopt the same standards.

    An Uber Eats spokesperson said:

    Uber Eats is fully committed to fighting illegal work and the criminal networks who are often behind it, including by introducing state of the art identity and document video verification technology and mandatory substitute registration. We welcome efforts to enable and enforce further controls, and create a level playing field across the sector.

    The checks take minutes to complete, and the Home Office provide this free of charge, with businesses able to utilise digital ID verification technology to support the process. There is also support in place for employers with enquiries about the process.

    The new laws further build on measures announced in November to equip Immigration Enforcement teams with new technology. From May, body worn cameras will be rolled out to officers on the front line tackling illegal working and organised immigration crime. Backed by £5 milllion, this will help officers collect evidence to support prosecutions and make sure exploitative businesses undermining our immigration system are held to account.

    The new measures go alongside a ramp-up of operational action by Immigration Enforcement teams, who since July have carried out 6,784 illegal working visits to premises and made 4,779 arrests – an increase of 40% and 42% compared to the same period 12 months ago. In that time, 1,508 civil penalty notices have been issued.

    This also follows wider measures within the legislation announced earlier this month to impose tougher restrictions on foreign criminals whose removal we are pursuing but we are presently unable to deport. This includes the use of electronic tags, night time curfews and exclusion zones. Breaching these conditions would be grounds for arrest and the individual could face imprisonment.

    The measures will help ensure the Home Office maintains close contact with individuals and makes it very clear that they should not become established in the UK, as the intention remains to remove them when possible.  

    Tomorrow (31 March 2025), the Home Secretary will convene key government and law enforcement leads at the UK’s 2 day landmark international Organised Immigration Crime Summit.

    This will include Immigration Enforcement, the Department for Business and Trade, the Gangmasters Labour Abuse Authority and the National Crime Agency, holding a roundtable to discuss the importance of shutting down illegal working and government’s ongoing surge in operational activity.

    The summit will bring together leaders from across the globe, with the aim of securing international commitments to intensify efforts against organised immigration crime gangs.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 30 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai observes 2025 Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee field exercises

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai observes 2025 Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee field exercises
    At noon on March 27, President Lai Ching-te observed 2025 Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee field exercises incorporating expanded emergency medical facilities at the Yuping Post Office in Tainan. In remarks, President Lai thanked all the participants and everyone who helped with the preparations. He expressed hope that we can contribute to future exercises through building on collaboration between the central and local governments, participation by reliable civilian forces, cross-regional integration of resources, and self-initiative of communities and private-sector entities. The president said that to ensure Taiwan’s security, we hope to rely not just on the armed forces, but also on the forces of defense resilience throughout our society, and that in that way we can achieve peace through strength.
    After arriving at the venue, the president first listened to a report on “expanded emergency medical facilities.” He then observed the work done at various operational areas, including a medical command center, a district-level coordination center, a mobile police station, an emergency (including disease prevention) triage station, a moderate-to-severe trauma treatment area, a forward surgical operating area, and a disaster-related mental healthcare work area, for first-hand understanding of the field exercises. 
    A translation of the president’s remarks follows:
    I am very happy to be back in Tainan to take part in the first field exercises of the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee. These exercises had scenarios but no scripts. This was also our first time conducting exercises that incorporated expanded emergency medical facilities. Over 1,500 people from the central and local governments as well as private-sector entities took part in the exercises. Just moments ago, I observed all the various activities taking place and saw the well-trained participants fully applying their expertise in a sudden emergency.
    The success of today’s exercises demonstrated the full commitment and professionalism of the participants, while also highlighting several important principles that can be promoted in the future. The first is coordination among authorities at the central and local levels. The Office of the President, the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee, and the Tainan City Government team worked together closely, from planning and design to implementation of the exercises. The second is participation by reliable civilian forces, including the Tzu Chi Charity Foundation, the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, the Mustard Seed Mission, and SHOWBA Store.
    The third is cross-regional integration of resources. The exercises in Tainan had participants from other counties and cities such as Chiayi and Kaohsiung. The fourth is where communities and private-sector entities take action on their own initiative. Examples include the involvement of the Huweiliao residents’ rescue team, Songan independent flood disaster prevention community, Xinan resilience community, Kainan Community, and Anping District. In the future, whether it is collaboration between the central and local governments, participation by reliable civilian forces, cross-regional integration of resources, or participation of communities and private-sector entities, all parties can act together in concert and conduct comprehensive exercises.
    I want to thank Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) for leading his team and for coming here yesterday to personally inspect the preparations, Minister of the Interior Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) and Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan Chi Lien-cheng (季連成) for their support in directing the exercises, and Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) for leading his Tainan City Government team. Everyone gave it their all to make sure the event went smoothly.
    I also want to thank the civil society organizations and self-initiating community forces I mentioned earlier, as well as the Tainan City medical organizations that took part, including Chi Mei Medical Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan Medical Association, and other district hospitals and clinics. In addition, the participation of auxiliary police, auxiliary firefighters, auxiliary traffic police, and other community service workers was another wonderful aspect of today’s exercises.
    I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Office of the President after taking office. Our committee conducted tabletop exercises last December. And today we have followed those exercises with these small-scale live exercises in Tainan. We are also preparing to conduct urban exercises this April, the objective being to build resilience in Taiwan’s society so it can properly respond when there are large numbers of injuries resulting from natural disasters or major accidents and be prepared in the event of geopolitical changes in the region. It is said that “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure” and “do not count on the enemy not showing up; count on being ready should it strike.” We have made preparations so that, should a contingency occur, we can reduce the number of injuries. To ensure Taiwan’s security we hope to rely not just on the armed forces, but also on the forces of defense resilience throughout our society. In that way we can achieve peace through strength.
    Also in attendance at the event were members of 13 foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan, including American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene, Head of the European Economic and Trade Office Lutz Güllner, and Finland Trade Center Representative Lauri Matti Raunio.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Man sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment for illegally importing and causing cruelty to endangered turtles (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Man sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment for illegally importing and causing cruelty to endangered turtles  
    The male traveller transiting to the Philippines arrived at Hong Kong International Airport from Malaysia on March 31 last year. During transit, Customs found 63 live suspected scheduled endangered turtles in his three pieces of check-in baggage. Officers of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) were summoned to the scene and found that all the turtles had been wrapped with a layer of cloth and then a layer of transparent plastic wrap, or wrapped directly with a transparent plastic wrap, rendering them unable to freely stretch and move their limbs. There was also no food, water or moisturising materials in the baggage.
     
    Upon inspection, the turtles were identified as 49 radiated tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) and 14 batagurs (Batagur baska), which are endangered species listed in Appendix I and Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, respectively, and regulated locally under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance. Both species are listed as Critically Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species.
     
    The man was charged with illegal import of an Appendix I species, illegal import of an Appendix II species and cruelty to animals. He was convicted at the District Court and was sentenced to 30 months behind bars today. 
     
    According to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction with the specimens forfeited.
     
    Also, according to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance, any person by unreasonably doing or omitting to do any act, causes any unnecessary suffering to any animal commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for three years upon conviction.
     
    A spokesman for the AFCD stressed, “The Government is committed to protecting endangered species and safeguarding animal welfare. The AFCD will remain vigilant and continue to monitor and combat illegal activities involving endangered species and animal cruelty.”
     
    Members of the public may call 1823 to report any suspected irregularities to the AFCD and visit the AFCD website: www.cites.hkIssued at HKT 18:30

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Turning Climate Commitments into Action: India’s Carbon Offset Plan Hits the Ground ”

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Towards India’s commitment on emission intensity reduction, Government of India has already notified The Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023 in June 2023, and laid the foundation for the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) by establishing the institutional framework, including the National Steering Committee for Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM). In December 2023, the scheme was amended to introduce the Offset Mechanism, enabling participation from non-obligated entities through voluntary climate mitigation projects.

    Moving the journey of carbon market forward, the Government of India has now approved the Detailed Procedure for the Offset Mechanism and eight different methodologies under Offset Mechanism. This marks a major step forward in the operationalization of the Offset Mechanism under ICM.

    The Offset Mechanism will encourage voluntary participation by entities for developing projects that reduce, remove, or avoid greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This framework enables businesses, industries, and organizations—particularly those not covered under the compliance mechanism—to participate in climate action and receive carbon credits for verified emission reductions. This mechanism will enable our country to tap climate change mitigation from sectors not covered under the compliance mechanism and can incentivize actions in such sectors.

    Eight methodologies under Offset Mechanism, approved by Central Government, include methodologies for renewable energy (including Hydro and Pumped storage), green hydrogen production, industrial energy efficiency, landfill methane recovery, and mangrove afforestation & reforestation. These methodologies are expected to support a wide range of climate-friendly projects for voluntary carbon credit generation.

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NIXI successfully concludes Universal Acceptance (UA) Day 2025, focused on connecting the unconnected and building a multilingual internet for Viksit Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    NIXI successfully concludes Universal Acceptance (UA) Day 2025, focused on connecting the unconnected and building a multilingual internet for Viksit Bharat

    Universal Acceptance is not just about technical standards, it’s about empowering every citizen, regardless of language or background, to fully participate in the digital economy: Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY

    Event explores socio-economic impact and benefits of Universal Acceptance (UA) on MSMEs and industries

    Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), organised a hybrid event on Universal Acceptance Day on 28th March 2025 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The event, themed “Connecting the Unconnected – Building a Multilingual Internet for Viksit Bharat,” aimed to accelerate the adoption of Universal Acceptance (UA) and create a more inclusive digital ecosystem in India. 

    To achieve a truly accessible internet, it is essential that all digital tools and platforms support the diverse range of domain names and email addresses currently in use, regardless of linguistic or structural variations. Universal Acceptance plays a crucial role in ensuring an inclusive digital environment. The event witnessed the presence of Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, and Chairman, NIXI, as the Chief Guest; among other Government officials and industry leaders globally.

    Importance of internet governance and resilience

    Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, highlighted that “In an increasingly digital-first world, it is essential that technology does not become a barrier, particularly in a diverse country like India. Universal Acceptance is not just about technical standards, it’s about empowering every citizen, regardless of language or background, to fully participate in the digital economy. We are committed to simplifying a democratising digital access, ensuring that the benefits of technology reach even those who are not digitally aware. Our efforts, including the promotion of Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) and language translation tools, aim to bridge the digital divide and create a safer, more inclusive online environment.”

    He further emphasized the importance of internet governance and resilience, highlighting India’s role in shaping a multi-stakeholder approach globally. “As India’s internet user base approaches a billion, we must ensure that our voice is heard in international forums. We are dedicated to building a robust and resilient digital infrastructure that protects our cultural identity and enables seamless communication within the country, even in challenging scenarios.”

    Empowering communities and fostering true digital inclusion

    Mr Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, highlighted the significance of UA Day, also stated, “Universal Acceptance is essential to ensure that everyone, regardless of their language, can fully participate in the digital world. By embracing linguistic diversity online, we are not just preserving languages—we are empowering communities and fostering true digital inclusion. A truly inclusive digital space respects and represents all voices.” 

    Unlocking the full potential of India’s digital economy

    Dr Devesh Tyagi, CEO NIXI, while speaking at the UA day 2025 event, stated, “NIXI is proud to have spearheaded this initiative. UA Day 2025 has provided a key platform for stakeholders to come together, share insights, and commit to action. Our focus remains on creating a truly inclusive internet, where language is no longer a barrier. We believe that a multilingual internet is essential for connecting the unconnected and unlocking the full potential of India’s digital economy.” 

    Promoting Universal Acceptance and digital inclusivity

    The event featured in-depth discussions exploring the comprehensive scope of UA. Sessions delved into the socio-economic impact of UA on MSMEs & industries in general, the benefits of operating a UA-compliant business, and the crucial role of a multilingual internet in shaping effective public policy. Participants also identified gaps in the adoption of native languages and suggested novel initiatives to address these challenges, helping to better understand the barriers faced by internet users. The panel also underscored the importance of UA within the Digital Public Infrastructure, especially through the utilisation of UA, the government can empower citizens by enabling seamless access to essential digital services in their native languages.

    The panel highlighted the landmark development by India in UA adoption such as “Bhashini Portal” & the multistakeholder approach pushed at international fora. The need of sealing up capacity building, competencies at the core systems of technology development standards etc to facilitate UA level interoperability was highlighted by various industry leaders and tech enthusiasts.

    The event also underscored India’s role in promoting UA, emphasising the importance of creating a digital environment where every Indian can fully utilise the internet in their preferred language.

    The event was well supported & attended by UNESCO and ICANN. Mr Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia; and Mr Samiran Gupta, VP, Stakeholder Engagement & MD, Asia Pacific, ICANN, Shri Jaco Du Toit, Chief of Section, Universal Access to Information and Digital Inclusion, UNESCO HQ, were among the key speakers & participants.

    About NIXI: 

    Established on 19th June 2003, the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) is a not-for-profit (Section 8) company under the aegis of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. It is tasked with increasing Internet penetration and adoption in India by facilitating various infrastructure aspects to enable the Internet ecosystem to be managed and used by the masses. The four services under NIXI include Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) for building Internet Exchange Points, the .IN Registry for establishing the .in domain digital identity, and IRINN for the adoption of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses. 

    For more information, please visit: [https://nixi.in/](https://nixi.in/)

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2116337) Visitor Counter : 258

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 30, 2025
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