NewzIntel.com

Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches Limited-Time $50 Welcome Bonus and 100% Deposit Match for New Crypto Futures Traders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BexBack, a rapidly growing crypto derivatives exchange, has announced a limited-time promotional campaign offering new users a $50 welcome bonus and a 100% deposit match when they join the platform. Amid renewed volatility in the crypto market, the campaign aims to help retail traders take advantage of 100x leveraged futures trading with zero KYC requirements. The offer is available now for a short window, providing users with an accessible, high-reward opportunity to capitalize on market momentum.

    Whether you’re aiming to capitalize on Bitcoin’s price swings or tap into the momentum of emerging altcoins, BexBack empowers every trader with institutional-grade tools and unmatched promotional offers.

    Why 100x Leverage Matters in Today’s Market

    In times of uncertainty, leverage transforms small price moves into big opportunities. With 100x leverage, traders can:

    • Multiply Profit Potential: Open positions worth 100x your initial margin, significantly amplifying gains.
    • Maximize Capital Efficiency: Put less in, get more out. Keep the rest of your capital flexible.
    • Trade Both Directions: Go long or short. Make profits whether prices rise or fall.
    • Respond Quickly: High-frequency opportunities become viable with minimal capital.
    • Level the Playing Field: Retail traders now have access to strategies once reserved for institutions.

    A Real Example: How 100x Leverage Boosts ROI

    Let’s say Bitcoin is priced at $100,000. You open a long position with 1 BTC using 100x leverage—equivalent to $10 million in market exposure. If BTC rises to $105,000:

    • Your profit is 5 BTC, or 500% ROI on your initial margin.
    • With BexBack’s 100% deposit bonus, your trading power doubles, potentially increasing that profit to 10 BTC—a 1000% return.

    Note: Leverage can amplify both gains and losses. Always manage risk wisely.

    How the BexBack Bonuses Work

    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your margin power. The bonus is credited to your account and usable for trading and loss coverage.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus: New users who make their first deposit (More than 100 USDT or 0.001 BTC) and trade within 7 days will receive an instant $50 credit in their USDT-M account.
    • No KYC Required: Sign up, deposit, and start trading within minutes—no complex verification needed.

    Why Choose BexBack?

    BexBack is a next-generation crypto derivatives exchange trusted by over 500,000 global traders, offering futures contracts on BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, SOL, and 50+ top assets. With headquarters in Singapore and operations in Hong Kong, Japan, the U.S., the U.K., and Argentina, BexBack is fully licensed with a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) registration.

    Key Highlights:

    • 100x Leverage across all major cryptocurrencies
    • 100% Deposit Bonus with no hidden fees
    • $50 Welcome Bonus for new users
    • No KYC Required — Privacy-first trading
    • Zero Deposit Fees — Keep more of your crypto
    • Demo Account with 10 BTC for practice
    • No Spread, No Slippage — Just precise execution
    • Available Worldwide, including the U.S., Canada, and Europe
    • 24/7 Multilingual Support — Real humans, real fast
    • Up to 50% Commission for Affiliates — Invite & earn

    Join the Next Wave of Crypto Success

    The crypto market waits for no one. If you missed the last bull run, now is the time to get ahead. With BexBack’s cutting-edge features and unbeatable offers, every trader—from beginner to pro—can trade like a whale.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4a986727-71d0-4c8b-9443-a773107d101f
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db119e10-fe18-4d72-8454-47b686fc6bad
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/126f6d03-b53d-45d0-b3a1-884e1d0294b5
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e1312b5-f75e-4566-b309-315fd75bc1ed

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Appoints Dr. George Elombi as Next President

    The shareholders of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) have appointed Dr. George Elombi as the next President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the continental financial institution. He becomes the fourth President to lead the Bank since its establishment in 1993.

    His appointment was one of the key decisions of the 32nd Afreximbank group annual meetings and associated events held in Abuja, Nigeria, from 25 to 28 June, with the formal annual general meeting of shareholders taking place on Saturday, 28 June 2025.

    He succeeds Professor Benedict Oramah, who has served as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors since 2015, and who will be stepping down in September 2025.

    A Cameroonian national, George Elombi has been with Afreximbank since 1996, joining as a Legal Officer. He rose through the ranks to become Executive Vice President, Governance, Legal and Corporate Services. Over his nearly three decades at the Bank, he has served as Director and Executive Secretary (2010–2015); Deputy Director, Legal Services / Executive Secretary (2008–2010); Chief Legal Officer (2003–2008); and Senior Legal Officer (2001–2003). 

    Prior to joining Afreximbank, he taught law at the University of Hull, United Kingdom.

    Dr. Elombi played a pivotal role in establishing Afreximbank group’s structure, including the formation of key subsidiaries that have expanded the Bank’s capacity to deliver on its mandate. As Chair of the Emergency Response Committee, he led the Bank’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, mobilising over $2 billion for vaccine acquisition and deployment across African and Caribbean nations. Under his supervision of the Equity Mobilisation and Investor Relations department, the Bank’s total ordinary equity mobilised amounted to USD 3.6 billion as at April 2025. 

    In his acceptance speech, Dr. Elombi expressed a deep commitment to the Bank’s mission and future, stating:

    “I have worked alongside remarkable colleagues and extraordinary leaders to help shape this institution’s vision, its mandate as well as its growth. As we look to the future, I see Afreximbank as a force for industrialising Africa and for re-gaining the dignity of Africans wherever they are. I will work to preserve this important asset.”

    He accepted the shareholders’ desire as expressed by his predecessor to make the institution a US$250 billion bank in ten years.

    Dr. George Elombi holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the London School of Economics, University of London, and a Ph.D. in commercial arbitration from the same university. He obtained a ‘Maitrise-en-Droit’ from the University of Yaoundé in 1989.

    His appointment followed a rigorous selection process initiated in January 2025, which included a global call for applications published in international media and on the Afreximbank website. Shortlisted candidates were interviewed by an international human resource executive search firm. The top candidates were presented to the Board of Directors, which recommended Dr. Elombi to the General Meeting of Shareholders for final approval.

    Under the Afreximbank Charter, a president is appointed by the general meeting of shareholders upon the recommendation of the Board of Directors for a term of five years, renewable once.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Media Contact:
    Vincent Musumba
    Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
    Email: press@afreximbank.com

    Follow us on:
    Twitter
    Facebook
    LinkedIn
    Instagram

    About Afreximbank:
    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

    For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How does Marburg virus spread between species? Young Ugandan scientist’s photos give important clues

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Alexander Richard Braczkowski, Research Fellow at the Centre for Planetary Health and Resilient Conservation Group, Griffith University

    In the shadows of Python Cave, Uganda, a leopard leaps from a guano mound – formed by bat excrement – and sinks its teeth into a bat. But this is no ordinary bat colony. The thousands of Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) found in this cave are known carriers of one of the world’s deadliest viruses: Marburg, a close cousin of Ebola.

    Over just four months, our cameras recorded 261 predator encounters: crowned eagles, Nile monitors, leopards, pythons and blue monkeys all caught feeding on, or scavenging from this virus-harbouring colony.

    And yet, this wasn’t the work of a global health agency or virology lab. The discovery came from a 25-year-old Ugandan undergraduate, Bosco Atukwatse, working with our small Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust Kyambura Lion Project team in Queen Elizabeth National Park. His only tools: a trail camera, curiosity and ecological instinct.

    I am a conservation scientist with over 17 years of experience in wildlife ecology, monitoring and human-wildlife conflict. I’m the co-founder of the Kyambura Lion Project, which made this discovery.

    For years, scientists studying how diseases spread from animals to humans have hypothesised that zoonotic diseases jump from a wildlife reservoir (like a bat) to an intermediate host (monkey) and potentially to us, humans.

    For past Marburg outbreaks in Uganda, two spillover pathways have been identified: the first, involves humans coming into contact with a fruit bat habitat (namely caves filled with bat guano). Indeed, fruit bats are thought to have infected two tourists at Python Cave in 2007 and 2008.

    The second pathway involves humans and animals eating the same fruit that bats have fed upon or made contact with. This second spillover pathway was identified by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scientists in 2023. They tracked bats from the cave entering cultivated gardens to feed.

    But Atukwatse and the team of young Ugandan scientists (Yahaya Ssemakula, Johnson Muhereza, Orin Cornille and Winfred Nsabimana) have potentially found another pathway: predation by at least 14 species.

    Such rich visual evidence of a viral interface – bats, predators and people – is virtually non-existent in the literature. Many theoretical depictions of this process exist, and there are isolated incidents of a monkey predating on a bat or wildlife feeding on bat guano, but Atukwatse’s discovery of this many different predators repeatedly feeding on a known Marburg virus reservoir is a first.

    His discovery highlights two uncomfortable truths:

    • many potential zoonotic interfaces remain undocumented – often right under our noses

    • the people most likely to detect them first are those living closest to wild frontiers.

    But the bigger message is this: global health institutions need to stop overlooking local scientists and start funding field-based detection systems across Africa and Asia.

    If we want to detect the next outbreak early, we should be empowering more Atukwatses, not waiting for the next lab test.

    A hunch pays off

    In early February 2025, Atukwatse and our small team of local scientists was expanding our long-term African leopard and spotted hyena monitoring grid into a new part of Queen Elizabeth National Park – the Kyambura Wildlife Reserve and Maramagambo forest.

    Atukwatse had heard from nearby guides that a large bat cave lay close to the survey grid. That kind of site, he reasoned, could be perfect leopard territory: a place to hunt, rest or avoid the heat.

    This is ecological attentiveness at its best – the field biology equivalent of a commodities trader spotting volatility in a geopolitical flashpoint.

    Atukwatse had his radar on and acted on instinct, setting five camera traps at the cave’s entrance and along the surrounding animal trails. Just one week later, he got what he hoped for: three separate clips of a leopard hunting bats in broad daylight. He left the cameras in place in protective casing. He checked them every 7–10 days.

    But that was just the beginning.

    The scale of the discovery

    When I first looked at Atukwatse’s videos, our joint excitement was around the leopard footage. We knew they were adaptable and could even eat small rodents , but no one had ever recorded them eating bats in Africa.

    As more clips came in, we realised something bigger was unfolding. Blue monkeys were seen grabbing bats mid-roost. A crowned eagle and a Nile monitor fought over two bat carcasses. A fish eagle – typically a piscivore, which is a carnivorous species that primarily eats fish – was filmed clutching bats in its talons.



    Read more:
    African wild dogs: DNA tests of their faeces reveal surprises about what they eat

    Over 304 trap-nights, Atukwatse’s traps recorded 261 independent predator events from at least 14 different species.

    Then came the second shock: over 400 human visitors – many of them tourists – were filmed approaching the cave mouth without any protective gear. Some stood just metres from a known Marburg virus reservoir. Importantly, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has built a sanctioned viewing platform about 35 metres from the cave. However, tourists broke park rules and walked within two metres of the cave mouth.

    It was only after I visited the cave myself to take stills of the team that we put this all together. Atukwatse had just found the first visual evidence, at a large scale in nature, of at least 14 predators feeding on a known wildlife virus reservoir harbouring one of Earth’s deadliest viruses.

    This wasn’t the result of million-dollar pathogen surveillance. It wasn’t even the core aim of our leopard survey. This happened because a young Ugandan field scientist followed his ecological gut.

    Why does the discovery matter?

    For decades, disease ecologists have known that major outbreaks often originate in wildlife – swine flu, avian flu and even SARS-CoV-2 all trace back to animal hosts. But what’s often missing is direct observation of spillover interfaces – the exact moments when a virus jumps from a bat, goose, or other animal into new species like humans, livestock or other wildlife.

    Atukwatse’s discovery may be the first large-scale visual record of such an interface in nature: a roost of Egyptian fruit bats known to harbour a deadly virus, actively predated upon by at least 14 species, with hundreds of humans visiting the same cave mouth unprotected.

    This may be a Rosetta Stone moment for spillover ecology – shifting our understanding from hypothetical models to a real, observable interface.

    These kinds of spillover sites exist in other places in nature: in a Chinese wet market where a civet meets a meat processor, or in a Gabonese village where a bat is butchered for bushmeat. The difference? Most of them go undocumented. Atukwatse just filmed one.

    Alexander Richard Braczkowski is the scientific director of the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust Kyambura Lion Project.

    – ref. How does Marburg virus spread between species? Young Ugandan scientist’s photos give important clues – https://theconversation.com/how-does-marburg-virus-spread-between-species-young-ugandan-scientists-photos-give-important-clues-259806

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How does Marburg virus spread between species? Young Ugandan scientist’s photos give important clues

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Alexander Richard Braczkowski, Research Fellow at the Centre for Planetary Health and Resilient Conservation Group, Griffith University

    In the shadows of Python Cave, Uganda, a leopard leaps from a guano mound – formed by bat excrement – and sinks its teeth into a bat. But this is no ordinary bat colony. The thousands of Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) found in this cave are known carriers of one of the world’s deadliest viruses: Marburg, a close cousin of Ebola.

    Over just four months, our cameras recorded 261 predator encounters: crowned eagles, Nile monitors, leopards, pythons and blue monkeys all caught feeding on, or scavenging from this virus-harbouring colony.

    And yet, this wasn’t the work of a global health agency or virology lab. The discovery came from a 25-year-old Ugandan undergraduate, Bosco Atukwatse, working with our small Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust Kyambura Lion Project team in Queen Elizabeth National Park. His only tools: a trail camera, curiosity and ecological instinct.

    I am a conservation scientist with over 17 years of experience in wildlife ecology, monitoring and human-wildlife conflict. I’m the co-founder of the Kyambura Lion Project, which made this discovery.

    For years, scientists studying how diseases spread from animals to humans have hypothesised that zoonotic diseases jump from a wildlife reservoir (like a bat) to an intermediate host (monkey) and potentially to us, humans.

    For past Marburg outbreaks in Uganda, two spillover pathways have been identified: the first, involves humans coming into contact with a fruit bat habitat (namely caves filled with bat guano). Indeed, fruit bats are thought to have infected two tourists at Python Cave in 2007 and 2008.

    The second pathway involves humans and animals eating the same fruit that bats have fed upon or made contact with. This second spillover pathway was identified by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scientists in 2023. They tracked bats from the cave entering cultivated gardens to feed.

    But Atukwatse and the team of young Ugandan scientists (Yahaya Ssemakula, Johnson Muhereza, Orin Cornille and Winfred Nsabimana) have potentially found another pathway: predation by at least 14 species.

    Such rich visual evidence of a viral interface – bats, predators and people – is virtually non-existent in the literature. Many theoretical depictions of this process exist, and there are isolated incidents of a monkey predating on a bat or wildlife feeding on bat guano, but Atukwatse’s discovery of this many different predators repeatedly feeding on a known Marburg virus reservoir is a first.

    His discovery highlights two uncomfortable truths:

    • many potential zoonotic interfaces remain undocumented – often right under our noses

    • the people most likely to detect them first are those living closest to wild frontiers.

    But the bigger message is this: global health institutions need to stop overlooking local scientists and start funding field-based detection systems across Africa and Asia.

    If we want to detect the next outbreak early, we should be empowering more Atukwatses, not waiting for the next lab test.

    A hunch pays off

    In early February 2025, Atukwatse and our small team of local scientists was expanding our long-term African leopard and spotted hyena monitoring grid into a new part of Queen Elizabeth National Park – the Kyambura Wildlife Reserve and Maramagambo forest.

    Atukwatse had heard from nearby guides that a large bat cave lay close to the survey grid. That kind of site, he reasoned, could be perfect leopard territory: a place to hunt, rest or avoid the heat.

    This is ecological attentiveness at its best – the field biology equivalent of a commodities trader spotting volatility in a geopolitical flashpoint.

    Atukwatse had his radar on and acted on instinct, setting five camera traps at the cave’s entrance and along the surrounding animal trails. Just one week later, he got what he hoped for: three separate clips of a leopard hunting bats in broad daylight. He left the cameras in place in protective casing. He checked them every 7–10 days.

    But that was just the beginning.

    The scale of the discovery

    When I first looked at Atukwatse’s videos, our joint excitement was around the leopard footage. We knew they were adaptable and could even eat small rodents , but no one had ever recorded them eating bats in Africa.

    As more clips came in, we realised something bigger was unfolding. Blue monkeys were seen grabbing bats mid-roost. A crowned eagle and a Nile monitor fought over two bat carcasses. A fish eagle – typically a piscivore, which is a carnivorous species that primarily eats fish – was filmed clutching bats in its talons.



    Read more:
    African wild dogs: DNA tests of their faeces reveal surprises about what they eat

    Over 304 trap-nights, Atukwatse’s traps recorded 261 independent predator events from at least 14 different species.

    Then came the second shock: over 400 human visitors – many of them tourists – were filmed approaching the cave mouth without any protective gear. Some stood just metres from a known Marburg virus reservoir. Importantly, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has built a sanctioned viewing platform about 35 metres from the cave. However, tourists broke park rules and walked within two metres of the cave mouth.

    It was only after I visited the cave myself to take stills of the team that we put this all together. Atukwatse had just found the first visual evidence, at a large scale in nature, of at least 14 predators feeding on a known wildlife virus reservoir harbouring one of Earth’s deadliest viruses.

    This wasn’t the result of million-dollar pathogen surveillance. It wasn’t even the core aim of our leopard survey. This happened because a young Ugandan field scientist followed his ecological gut.

    Why does the discovery matter?

    For decades, disease ecologists have known that major outbreaks often originate in wildlife – swine flu, avian flu and even SARS-CoV-2 all trace back to animal hosts. But what’s often missing is direct observation of spillover interfaces – the exact moments when a virus jumps from a bat, goose, or other animal into new species like humans, livestock or other wildlife.

    Atukwatse’s discovery may be the first large-scale visual record of such an interface in nature: a roost of Egyptian fruit bats known to harbour a deadly virus, actively predated upon by at least 14 species, with hundreds of humans visiting the same cave mouth unprotected.

    This may be a Rosetta Stone moment for spillover ecology – shifting our understanding from hypothetical models to a real, observable interface.

    These kinds of spillover sites exist in other places in nature: in a Chinese wet market where a civet meets a meat processor, or in a Gabonese village where a bat is butchered for bushmeat. The difference? Most of them go undocumented. Atukwatse just filmed one.

    Alexander Richard Braczkowski is the scientific director of the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust Kyambura Lion Project.

    – ref. How does Marburg virus spread between species? Young Ugandan scientist’s photos give important clues – https://theconversation.com/how-does-marburg-virus-spread-between-species-young-ugandan-scientists-photos-give-important-clues-259806

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: How does Marburg virus spread between species? Young Ugandan scientist’s photos give important clues

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Alexander Richard Braczkowski, Research Fellow at the Centre for Planetary Health and Resilient Conservation Group, Griffith University

    In the shadows of Python Cave, Uganda, a leopard leaps from a guano mound – formed by bat excrement – and sinks its teeth into a bat. But this is no ordinary bat colony. The thousands of Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) found in this cave are known carriers of one of the world’s deadliest viruses: Marburg, a close cousin of Ebola.

    Over just four months, our cameras recorded 261 predator encounters: crowned eagles, Nile monitors, leopards, pythons and blue monkeys all caught feeding on, or scavenging from this virus-harbouring colony.

    And yet, this wasn’t the work of a global health agency or virology lab. The discovery came from a 25-year-old Ugandan undergraduate, Bosco Atukwatse, working with our small Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust Kyambura Lion Project team in Queen Elizabeth National Park. His only tools: a trail camera, curiosity and ecological instinct.

    I am a conservation scientist with over 17 years of experience in wildlife ecology, monitoring and human-wildlife conflict. I’m the co-founder of the Kyambura Lion Project, which made this discovery.

    For years, scientists studying how diseases spread from animals to humans have hypothesised that zoonotic diseases jump from a wildlife reservoir (like a bat) to an intermediate host (monkey) and potentially to us, humans.

    For past Marburg outbreaks in Uganda, two spillover pathways have been identified: the first, involves humans coming into contact with a fruit bat habitat (namely caves filled with bat guano). Indeed, fruit bats are thought to have infected two tourists at Python Cave in 2007 and 2008.

    The second pathway involves humans and animals eating the same fruit that bats have fed upon or made contact with. This second spillover pathway was identified by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scientists in 2023. They tracked bats from the cave entering cultivated gardens to feed.

    But Atukwatse and the team of young Ugandan scientists (Yahaya Ssemakula, Johnson Muhereza, Orin Cornille and Winfred Nsabimana) have potentially found another pathway: predation by at least 14 species.

    Such rich visual evidence of a viral interface – bats, predators and people – is virtually non-existent in the literature. Many theoretical depictions of this process exist, and there are isolated incidents of a monkey predating on a bat or wildlife feeding on bat guano, but Atukwatse’s discovery of this many different predators repeatedly feeding on a known Marburg virus reservoir is a first.

    A leopard grabs a fruit bat at Uganda’s Python Cave. Bosco Atukwatse/Kyambura Lion Project

    His discovery highlights two uncomfortable truths:

    • many potential zoonotic interfaces remain undocumented – often right under our noses

    • the people most likely to detect them first are those living closest to wild frontiers.

    But the bigger message is this: global health institutions need to stop overlooking local scientists and start funding field-based detection systems across Africa and Asia.

    If we want to detect the next outbreak early, we should be empowering more Atukwatses, not waiting for the next lab test.

    A hunch pays off

    In early February 2025, Atukwatse and our small team of local scientists was expanding our long-term African leopard and spotted hyena monitoring grid into a new part of Queen Elizabeth National Park – the Kyambura Wildlife Reserve and Maramagambo forest.

    Atukwatse had heard from nearby guides that a large bat cave lay close to the survey grid. That kind of site, he reasoned, could be perfect leopard territory: a place to hunt, rest or avoid the heat.

    This is ecological attentiveness at its best – the field biology equivalent of a commodities trader spotting volatility in a geopolitical flashpoint.

    A blue monkey with bat in hand at Python Cave. Bosco Atukwatse/Kyambura Lion Project

    Atukwatse had his radar on and acted on instinct, setting five camera traps at the cave’s entrance and along the surrounding animal trails. Just one week later, he got what he hoped for: three separate clips of a leopard hunting bats in broad daylight. He left the cameras in place in protective casing. He checked them every 7–10 days.

    But that was just the beginning.

    The scale of the discovery

    When I first looked at Atukwatse’s videos, our joint excitement was around the leopard footage. We knew they were adaptable and could even eat small rodents , but no one had ever recorded them eating bats in Africa.

    As more clips came in, we realised something bigger was unfolding. Blue monkeys were seen grabbing bats mid-roost. A crowned eagle and a Nile monitor fought over two bat carcasses. A fish eagle – typically a piscivore, which is a carnivorous species that primarily eats fish – was filmed clutching bats in its talons.

    Read more: African wild dogs: DNA tests of their faeces reveal surprises about what they eat

    Over 304 trap-nights, Atukwatse’s traps recorded 261 independent predator events from at least 14 different species.

    Then came the second shock: over 400 human visitors – many of them tourists – were filmed approaching the cave mouth without any protective gear. Some stood just metres from a known Marburg virus reservoir. Importantly, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has built a sanctioned viewing platform about 35 metres from the cave. However, tourists broke park rules and walked within two metres of the cave mouth.

    Bosco Atukwatse.

    It was only after I visited the cave myself to take stills of the team that we put this all together. Atukwatse had just found the first visual evidence, at a large scale in nature, of at least 14 predators feeding on a known wildlife virus reservoir harbouring one of Earth’s deadliest viruses.

    This wasn’t the result of million-dollar pathogen surveillance. It wasn’t even the core aim of our leopard survey. This happened because a young Ugandan field scientist followed his ecological gut.

    Why does the discovery matter?

    For decades, disease ecologists have known that major outbreaks often originate in wildlife – swine flu, avian flu and even SARS-CoV-2 all trace back to animal hosts. But what’s often missing is direct observation of spillover interfaces – the exact moments when a virus jumps from a bat, goose, or other animal into new species like humans, livestock or other wildlife.

    Atukwatse’s discovery may be the first large-scale visual record of such an interface in nature: a roost of Egyptian fruit bats known to harbour a deadly virus, actively predated upon by at least 14 species, with hundreds of humans visiting the same cave mouth unprotected.

    This may be a Rosetta Stone moment for spillover ecology – shifting our understanding from hypothetical models to a real, observable interface.

    These kinds of spillover sites exist in other places in nature: in a Chinese wet market where a civet meets a meat processor, or in a Gabonese village where a bat is butchered for bushmeat. The difference? Most of them go undocumented. Atukwatse just filmed one.

    – How does Marburg virus spread between species? Young Ugandan scientist’s photos give important clues
    – https://theconversation.com/how-does-marburg-virus-spread-between-species-young-ugandan-scientists-photos-give-important-clues-259806

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Clock ticking on EU-US trade talks as key divides remain

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

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrives for a European Council summit in Brussels, Belgium, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    U.S.-EU trade talks have gone through multiple rounds, but with the July 9 tariff deadline approaching, European leaders remained divided at Thursday’s European Council summit over whether to push for a quick deal or hold out for a more favorable one.

    A quick deal or a better one? 

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Thursday that the EU had received the “latest U.S. document” for continued negotiations, though she did not disclose details of the U.S. proposals.

    EU leaders now face a strategic dilemma over whether to accelerate talks to secure a deal before the deadline, or risk a prolonged trade dispute in hopes of achieving more favorable terms.

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, whose country is among the EU’s top exporters, is leading calls for a rapid resolution.

    “We have less than two weeks until July 9 — you can’t negotiate a sophisticated trade agreement in that time,” he said, warning that key industries, including chemicals, steel and automotive, are already under intense pressure.

    But others urged caution, warning that a rushed deal could tilt the balance in favor of the United States.

    “We are assessing it,” von der Leyen said. “Our message today is clear. We are ready for a deal. At the same time, we are preparing for the possibility that no satisfactory agreement is reached.” She added that “all options remain on the table,” and the EU would defend its interests if needed.

    French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this stance, saying France supports a fast and pragmatic deal but “will not accept unfair terms.” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has indicated that Washington may consider extending the deadline for countries negotiating in “good faith.”

    Key divides remain 

    To ease tensions, the EU has proposed eliminating tariffs on industrial goods on both sides — a move that has met with a lukewarm response from Washington.

    The EU also hopes to narrow the trade imbalance by increasing imports of U.S. liquefied natural gas, arms and agricultural products, and by considering reducing auto tariffs. However, U.S. negotiators continue to press for sweeping EU concessions on value-added tax rules, digital regulation, food safety and environmental standards.

    While EU officials say they are open to dialogue, they insist that core regulatory principles are non-negotiable.

    “Where it is the sovereign decision-making process in the European Union and its member states that is affected, this is too far,” von der Leyen said recently.

    Citing diplomatic sources, AFP reported that EU leaders may be exploring a so-called “Swiss cheese” deal — allowing for broad U.S. tariffs but securing exemptions for sensitive sectors such as steel, automotive, pharmaceuticals and aerospace.

    Automobiles remain the most contentious point. Germany has proposed an “offset rule” under which the EU would allow duty-free imports of U.S. cars in exchange for the same number of EU vehicles being exempted from tariffs in the United States. The effectiveness of such a mechanism, however, remains uncertain.

    A new trade club without US? 

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s unpredictable trade policies — marked by abrupt tariff hikes, temporary suspensions and renewed threats — have shaken confidence among traditional allies and reignited global concerns over trade stability.

    At Thursday’s summit, von der Leyen floated a new idea about forming a trade alliance with members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which includes Britain, Japan, and other Asian economies. She said such a coalition could serve as a foundation for reforming the World Trade Organization. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: More policy support for trade-ins

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

    China will further ramp up policy support and reinforce funding for large-scale equipment renewals and consumer goods trade-in programs to boost consumption and stabilize economic growth, officials and experts said.

    Amid a complex and challenging external environment, China’s economy is operating on a generally stable trajectory, with policymakers implementing more proactive macroeconomic policies and accelerating measures to stabilize employment and growth, according to the National Development and Reform Commission.

    The World Bank and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development have recently revised down their global growth forecasts by 0.4 and 0.2 percentage points, respectively, while maintaining largely stable projections for China’s economic growth.

    “With new measures being rolled out successively, we have the confidence and capability to minimize uncertainties and adverse impacts from external shocks, thereby promoting sustained and sound economic development,” Li Chao, deputy director of the policy research office of the NDRC, said in Beijing on Thursday.

    Funding support for equipment renewal through ultra-long special treasury bonds totals 200 billion yuan ($27.9 billion) this year. The first batch of approximately 173 billion yuan has been allocated to about 7,500 projects across 16 sectors, under the principle of dual review by local and central governments, according to NDRC.

    The application for the second batch of funds is currently undergoing concurrent project review and selection, Li added.

    “The NDRC will step up whole-process management of large-scale equipment renewal projects, accelerate project construction, enhance fund oversight and roll out discounted-interest loan policy to further reduce financing costs for business entities,” she said.

    When it comes to the consumer goods trade-in program, Li said that funding support from ultra-long special treasury bonds totals 300 billion yuan and the third batch of subsidies will be disbursed in July, after the first two batches totaling 162 billion yuan were disbursed in January and April, respectively.

    The NDRC will coordinate with relevant agencies to formulate sector-specific monthly and weekly implementation plans for central government subsidies, ensuring orderly year-round execution of the consumer goods trade-in program, Li noted.

    “As a key policy instrument, the timely disbursement and effective deployment of central government subsidies in the market demonstrate policy stability and sustainability,” said Zhou Mi, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation.

    Regarding the development of related industries, Zhou said that reinforced policy support will deliver more sustainable assistance to the production and supply ecosystems of consumer goods.

    “Enhanced optimization of equipment renewal projects will help lower financing costs for relevant companies, advance technological upgrades and high-end equipment adoption among enterprises, boosting innovation in emerging sectors,” said Wang Peng, a researcher at the Beijing Academy of Social Sciences.

    For consumers, Wang said that streamlined subsidy procedures, expanded product choices and balanced fund disbursement will lower the cost of upgrading their consumer goods.

    “Driven by the dual engines of investment and consumption, the measures will propel industrial upgrading and green transition, optimizing China’s economic structure,” Wang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: ReadyPaydayLoans.com Launches “Ready Pay” App to Help Americans Access the Best Personal Loans by State with Same Day Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Apply now at ReadyPaydayLoans.com to get matched with a lender offering fast personal loans, no credit check loans, or payday loans — anytime, anywhere in the U.S.

    LONG BEACH, Calif., June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to rising demand for faster, simpler personal financing, ReadyPaydayLoans.com has launched its latest innovation: the Ready Pay App. This new tool connects users across all 50 states with same day results on a variety of loan types — including payday loans, bad credit loans, and no credit check loans — using an ultra-fast, mobile-friendly experience.

    “The Ready Pay App is something we all have been excited about for months. We are glad it is finally here and ready for the public to use,” said Randy Murrie, VP at Ready Payday Loans.

    Unlike traditional lenders, ReadyPaydayLoans.com is not a direct lender. Instead, the company acts as a lead generation platform, instantly matching users with reputable third-party lenders based on their location, preferences, and financial profile — without requiring a minimum credit score.

    Why Ready Pay Is a Game-Changer

    With so many Americans facing unexpected expenses — medical bills, car repairs, rent payments — fast access to emergency funds is more critical than ever.

    Key Benefits of the Ready Pay App:

    • Same day results for qualified users
    • No credit score required to apply
    • 24/7 availability, even on weekends and holidays
    • 100% free to use — no fees to get matched
    • Private and secure application process
    • Compatible with desktop and mobile devices

    Whether you’re in a major city or small town, ReadyPaydayLoans.com helps users find the best personal loan options in their local area.

    How It Works

    Getting started with the Ready Pay App takes less than 3 minutes:

    1. Fill out a short form on ReadyPaydayLoans.com
    2. Get matched with a lender based on your location and needs
    3. Review and accept offers (or decline without obligation)
    4. Get same day results from a verified third-party lender


    Local Loan Options for All 50 States

    Ready Payday Loans now connects users to tailored solutions nationwide. Here’s how they’re serving borrowers with localized, and varied loan options.  Users of the Reay Pay App can find their city or state below, along with their varied loan option. 

    Best Personal Loans in Miami, Florida, Same-Day Payday Loans in Chicago, Illinois, No Credit Check Loans in Las Vegas, Nevada, Bad Credit Loans in Atlanta, Georgia, Emergency Loans in Los Angeles, California, Installment Loans in Dallas, Texas, Quick Cash Loans in Phoenix, Arizona, Best Personal Loans in New York City, New York, Fast Payday Loans in Charlotte, North Carolina, Best Personal Loans in Seattle, Washington, Instant Personal Loans in Denver, Colorado, Low Credit Personal Loans in Detroit, Michigan, Online Loans in Boston, Massachusetts, Best Personal Loans in Indianapolis, Indiana, Emergency Payday Loans in Columbus, Ohio, Best Personal Loans in Nashville, Tennessee, Bad Credit Personal Loans in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, No Credit Check Loans in Baltimore, Maryland, Best Personal Loans in Portland, Oregon, Same Day Loans in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Quick Personal Loans in Louisville, Kentucky, Fast Cash Loans in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Best Personal Loans in Kansas City, Missouri, Best Personal Loans in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Online Payday Loans in Omaha, Nebraska, Best Personal Loans in Jacksonville, Florida, Bad Credit Loans in Salt Lake City, Utah, Best Personal Loans in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, No Credit Check Loans in Boise, Idaho, Emergency Loans in Honolulu, Hawaii, Best Personal Loans in Charleston, South Carolina, Quick Personal Loans in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Fast Loans in Des Moines, Iowa, Best Personal Loans in Fargo, North Dakota, Instant Loans in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Best Personal Loans in Anchorage, Alaska, Bad Credit Loans in Wilmington, Delaware, Best Personal Loans in Manchester, New Hampshire, Same Day Payday Loans in Burlington, Vermont, Online Loans in Billings, Montana, Best Personal Loans in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Emergency Loans in Little Rock, Arkansas, Best Personal Loans in Providence, Rhode Island, Fast Online Loans in Hartford, Connecticut, Best Personal Loans in Richmond, Virginia, Payday Loans in Birmingham, Alabama, No Credit Check Loans in Jackson, Mississippi, Best Personal Loans in Columbia, South Carolina, Installment Loans in Augusta, Maine, Quick Personal Loans in Topeka, Kansas.

    And there you have it.  Ready Pay App users have access to varied loan options in all 50 states as outlined above.

    Important Note

    ReadyPaydayLoans.com is not a direct lender. It is a lead generation platform that connects users with third-party lenders across the United States. Loan terms, eligibility, and availability vary by state and provider.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Ready Pay App?

    The Ready Pay App is a new digital tool by ReadyPaydayLoans.com that connects users with lenders offering personal loans, payday loans, and emergency loans with same day results.

    Is there a credit score requirement?

    No. Users can apply with any credit score, including bad or no credit.

    Is Ready Payday Loans a direct lender?

    No. Ready Payday Loans is a lead generation service that helps users get matched with licensed third-party lenders in their area.

    Does it cost anything to use the service?

    No. The service is completely free to use and carries no obligation.

    When can I apply?

    You can apply 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

    Get Matched Today – Same Day Results Available

    Don’t let unpaid bills or urgent expenses pile up. With the new Ready Pay App, you can apply in minutes and get matched with a lender offering the best personal loan options near you — no credit score required.

    Apply now at ReadyPaydayLoans.com and get same day results.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b33aa85a-1fe7-4846-9f42-0e1db83b3e32

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tariff-rate quotas on imports of steel mill products

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    The Government of Canada announced the implementation of tariff rate quotas (TRQs) on imports of steel mill products from non-free trade agreement partners, effective June 27, 2025. This measure will help stabilize the Canadian market and prevent harmful diversion of foreign steel from third countries into Canada while minimizing impacts on Canadian importers and downstream users.

    The TRQs will be administered on the basis of five steel product categories: flat, long, pipe and tube, semi-finished, and stainless steel (see Annex A for list of tariff classifications applicable to each category). A 50 per cent surtax will be applied on imports of covered products that exceed the specified quantity threshold from non-FTA partners.

    The quotas will be reviewed in 30 days to ensure their appropriateness and effectiveness in light of evolving market circumstances, and periodically thereafter. The reviews will be supported by the newly established industry-government steel task force.

    Administration of the Tariff-Rate Quotas

    Global Affairs Canada will be responsible for administering the quota of products that may be imported without this additional surtax through the issuance of shipment-specific import permits. To facilitate the administration of the TRQs, the subject products are being added to the Import Control List. Importations made without the applicable shipment-specific import permit will be assessed the 50 per cent surtax by the CBSA. This surtax would be additive to any existing surtaxes or anti-dumping and countervailing duty measures, as well as forthcoming tariff measures based on the country of “melt and pour” for steel or “smelt and cast” for aluminum.

    Key elements of the tariff-rate quota include:

    • Total quota volume: For each of the five steel product categories, a limit is imposed on the quantity of goods that may be imported without a surtax. The one-year limit corresponds to  all of 2024 imports from non-FTA countries. 
    • Quota periods: The annual quota will be administered on the basis of three-month quarterly periods. Once the quota for a category in a quarter has been filled, imports under that category will be subject to a surtax for the remainder of that period. Any quota remaining at the end of a quarter will be rolled over into the following one.
    • Country share limit: For each category, there is a limit on the share of the total quarterly quota that imports from a single country of origin can fill. The limits are based on historical trade patterns. If imports from a country reaches the specified limit in a category, all subsequent imports from that country in that category will be subject to the surtax, until the end of the quarter.

    See Annex B for additional details on the tariff-rate quota volume and limits.

    The TRQs will apply to imports originating in any country that does not have a free trade agreement in force with Canada. The list of countries excluded from the tariff-rate quotas are set out in Annex C.

    Global Affairs Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency will be responsible for administering the tariff-rate quota for each steel product category. Additional information on the administration of these measures can be found at the links below:

    • GAC Notice to Importers (will follow)
    • CBSA Customs Notice (will follow)

    Annex A – Steel Products Subject to Provisional Safeguards

    Steel Products Subject to Provisional Safeguards
    Product Category

    Applicable Tariff Classifications

    Flat

    7208.10.00; 7208.25.00; 7208.26.00; 7208.27.00; 7208.36.00; 7208.37.00; 7208.38.00; 7208.39.00; 7208.40.00; 7208.51.00; 7208.52.00; 7208.53.00; 7208.54.00; 7208.90.00; 7209.15.00; 7209.16.00; 7209.17.00; 7209.18.00; 7209.25.00; 7209.26.00; 7209.27.00; 7209.28.00; 7209.90.00; 7210.11.00; 7210.12.00; 7210.49.00; 7210.50.00; 7210.61.00; 7210.69.00; 7210.70.00; 7210.90.00; 7211.14.00; 7211.19.00; 7211.23.00; 7211.29.00; 7211.90.00; 7212.10.00; 7212.30.00; 7212.40.00; 7212.50.00; 7225.19.00; 7225.30.00; 7225.40.00; 7225.50.00; 7225.91.00; 7225.92.00; 7225.99.00; 7226.91.00; 7226.92.00; 7226.99.00

    Long

    7213.10.00; 7213.20.00; 7213.91.00; 7213.99.00; 7214.10.00; 7214.20.00; 7214.91.00; 7214.99.00; 7216.10.00; 7216.21.00; 7216.22.00; 7216.31.00; 7216.32.00; 7216.33.00; 7216.40.00; 7216.50.00; 7216.99.00; 7217.10.00; 7217.20.00; 7217.30.00; 7217.90.00; 7224.10.00; 7227.10.00; 7227.20.00; 7227.90.00; 7228.30.00; 7228.40.00; 7228.50.00; 7228.60.00; 7228.70.00; 7228.80.00; 7229.20.00; 7229.90.00; 7301.10.00; 7301.20.00

    Pipe and Tube

    7304.19.00; 7304.22.00; 7304.23.00; 7304.24.00; 7304.29.00; 7304.39.00; 7304.59.00; 7304.90.00; 7305.11.00; 7305.12.00; 7305.19.00; 7305.20.00; 7305.31.00; 7305.39.00; 7305.90.00; 7306.19.00; 7306.29.00; 7306.30.00; 7306.50.00; 7306.61.00; 7306.69.00; 7306.90.00

    Semi-finished

    7206.10.00; 7206.90.00; 7207.11.00; 7207.12.00; 7207.19.00; 7207.20.00; 7224.90.00

    Stainless

    7218.10.00; 7218.91.00; 7218.99.00; 7222.30.00; 7222.40.00; 7304.49.00

    Annex B – Tariff-Rate Quota Volumes

    Tariff-Rate Quota Volumes
    Product Quota for each three-month quarterly period (tonnes) Maximum Share of Total Quota per Country
    Flat 186,856 36%
    Long 178,512 28%
    Pipe and Tube 117,406 47%
    Semi-finished 152,383 72%
    Stainless 5,568 91%

    Annex C – Excluded Countries of Origin

    • Australia
    • Austria
    • Belgium
    • Brunei Darussalam
    • Bulgaria
    • Canada
    • Chile
    • Colombia
    • Costa Rica
    • Croatia
    • Cyprus
    • Czechia
    • Denmark
    • Estonia
    • Finland
    • France
    • Germany
    • Greece
    • Honduras
    • Hungary
    • Iceland
    • Ireland
    • Israel
    • Italy
    • Japan
    • Jordan
    • South Korea
    • Latvia
    • Liechtenstein
    • Lithuania
    • Luxembourg
    • Malaysia
    • Malta
    • Mexico
    • Netherlands
    • New Zealand
    • Norway
    • Panama
    • Peru
    • Poland
    • Portugal
    • Romania
    • Singapore
    • Slovakia
    • Slovenia
    • Spain
    • Sweden
    • Switzerland
    • Ukraine
    • United Kingdom
    • United States
    • Vietnam

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada acts to support its steel producers and workers

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 27, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

    Today, the Minister of Finance and National Revenue, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, announced the implementation of new tariff rate quotas (TRQs) for steel mill products imported into Canada from non-free trade agreement (FTA) partners. The TRQs, set at 2.6 million tonnes, will result in a 50 per cent surtax being applied on steel imports above 2024 levels from non-FTA partners. The measure is effective June 27, 2025, and will be reviewed in 30 days.

    This temporary trade measure will help stabilize the Canadian steel market by addressing the risk that steel originally destined for the United States is redirected to Canada. The combination of tariffs imposed by the U.S. on all steel imports and global overcapacity, caused by non-market practices, has led many exporters to seek new markets. This measure helps manage that pressure without disrupting supply for Canadian users.

    This measure builds on Canada’s broader strategy to defend its workers and industries against unfair trade, including non-market policies and practices. This surtax would be additive to any existing surtaxes or anti-dumping and countervailing duty measures, as well as forthcoming tariff measures based on the country of “melt and pour” for steel.

    The decision to impose these TRQs is based on the public consultations, held earlier this spring, on options to address risks to Canada’s steel industry. The quotas will be reviewed in 30 days from today to ensure their appropriateness and effectiveness in light of evolving market circumstances, including progress in the broader trading arrangement with the United States, and periodically thereafter. The reviews will be supported by the newly established industry-government steel task force, which met for the first time on June 26.

    The government remains prepared to take additional steps as needed and will continue to review the appropriateness of its response, pending developments with U.S. tariffs. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed: Democrats Win Fight to Kill Irresponsible Gun Provision & Offer Legislative Fixes to Improve Public Safety & Combat Gun Violence

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Describing it as a win for commonsense and public safety, U.S. Senator Jack Reed praised the Senate Parliamentarian for correctly determining the effort to remove restrictions and regulations on silencers, short-barrel rifles and shotguns, and other guns that have been in place since the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 does not fit within budget reconciliation rules, and must be removed from the Big Ugly budget bill.  Republicans may attempt to rewrite their bill to pass muster, but Reed hailed today’s ruling, which came just after midnight, as a major setback for the gun lobby and a major win for the police.
    “We fought this dangerous, controversial attempt to proliferate the use of silencers and remove a layer of background checks on firearm sales.  Congress should not be making it easier for criminals to manipulate their guns to avoid police detection and ultimately prosecution.  Senate Republicans, over the objections of law enforcement officials and communities across the country, tried to jam the public by completely removing silencers, short-barrel rifles and shotguns, and a category called “any other weapons” from the purview of the NFA.  That would have meant new owners of these deadly weapons would no longer have to register them with the ATF, or follow other strict rules surrounding the ownership of these unique weapons.  This is a win for commonsense and public safety,” said Senator Reed.
    In an effort to prevent gun violence and reduce mass-shootings with thoughtful, effective, data-driven policy solutions, Reed teamed up with U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) this week to reintroduce a trio of gun safety bills.  These three measures would help decrease the pervasive threat of gun violence nationwide by halting three-dimensional (3D) printing and distribution of “ghost guns;” strengthening accountability measures for irresponsible gun dealers; and establishing commonsense rules to prohibit the marketing of firearms to children.
    The 3D Printed Gun Safety Act (S.2165) would prohibit the online distribution of blueprints and instructions that allow for the 3D printing of firearms. The proliferation of “ghost guns” is partly attributed to the ease of assembling firearms using 3D printed technology.  Because 3D printing allows individuals to make firearms out of plastic, these guns may be able to evade detection by metal detectors at security checkpoints.  Stopping the production of ghost guns would help keep guns out of the hands of violent criminals and black market operators; prevent traumatic incidents of gun violence; and solve more crimes.
    The Keeping Gun Dealers Honest Act (S.2155) would strengthen accountability measures for irresponsible gun dealers violating the law, and provide the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) additional resources for enforcement. This legislation would ensure that guns do not end up in the wrong hands by authorizing more frequent inspections of gun dealers, increasing penalties for serious offenses, and strengthening the U.S. Department of Justice’s authority and discretion in enforcing gun laws.  Congressman Seth Magaziner (RI-02) is the lead sponsor of companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    The Protecting Kids from Gun Marketing Act (S.2154) would direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prescribe rules that prohibit the marketing of firearms to children.  Firearm injuries are the number one cause of death among children and adolescents in the U.S.  The gun industry consistently makes false and misleading claims about firearm safety and unfairly exploits children and teenagers through unfair and deceptive marketing practices that ultimately lead to fatal consequences.
    The non-profit Sandy Hook Promise notes: “Gun manufacturers are actively and intentionally marketing firearms to children under 18 years old with “R-rated” content on guns. And they’re doing it through ads and social media influencers — without parental knowledge or consent.”  And according to a poll commissioned by the non-profit: “82 percent of boys between 10 and 17 said they have seen at least one gun advertisement online, while social media is flooded with firearms branded with children’s cartoon characters.”
    “Every day, more than 125 people in the United States die from gun violence,” said Senator Markey. “Our communities barely have a moment to mourn before gun violence in our schools and on our streets steals the lives of more Americans and rips families apart. We can’t keep living like this, and Americans can’t keep dying like this. This National Gun Violence Awareness Month, I am reintroducing my gun safety package, which includes commonsense solutions so that not one more life is lost to this unnecessary, man-made public health crisis. I will continue fighting to end the epidemic of gun violence and save lives.”
    “These are common-sense gun safety policies that would help save lives and better protect people and police from gun violence.  We’ve got to keep weapons of war off our streets, ensure gun dealers are complying with the law, and ensure sensible limits on the marketing of guns to children, just like we do with tobacco, alcohol, or other products,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee who is leading efforts to push back against the Trump Administration’s cuts to gun violence prevention efforts. 
    Earlier this year, the Trump Administration rescinded over $800 million in grants to local gun violence prevention and crime reduction programs, and upcoming budget decisions could further reduce data-driven, community-centered efforts to prevent gun violence and reduce crime.
    Rhode Island has one of the lowest rates of gun ownership in the country, yet still 52 people die annually by guns in Rhode Island, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.  The non-profit also estimates that gun violence costs Rhode Island $752.1 million each year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell & Colleagues Demand Answers from SBA Administrator Loeffler and Commerce Secretary Lutnick on Gutting Support for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.27.25
    Cantwell & Colleagues Demand Answers from SBA Administrator Loeffler and Commerce Secretary Lutnick on Gutting Support for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses
    “A failure to support small businesses, including minority-owned small businesses, will be a detriment to the entire American economy.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Senate colleagues in demanding answers from Administrator of the Small Business Administration Kelly Loeffler and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on the Trump Administration’s actions eliminating support for small businesses, including small minority-owned businesses.
    In March, President Trump issued an executive order directing the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and several other agencies to reduce their functions to the minimum amount required by law. The President’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposes to abolish the MBDA and the Trump Administration seeks to eliminate the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Women’s Business Centers and funding for SCORE, which provides mentorship and resources to small businesses, among other programs.
    These actions are already being felt across the country. For example, the MBDA Business Center in Tacoma, Washington has been forced to close after receiving a notice that its MBDA grant was terminated. Since receiving a $2 million MBDA grant in July 2021, the Center has helped minority-owned businesses create and retain 1,495 jobs, obtain $190.8 million in contracts, and obtain $216.9 million in financing. 
    “We demand answers from the Administration about how it intends to properly serve small business entrepreneurs from minority and underserved communities and follow Federal laws establishing support for such entrepreneurs,” wrote the Senators. “A failure to support small businesses, including minority-owned small businesses, will be a detriment to the entire American economy.”
    “The Administration actions to eliminate the MBDA is part of an overall attack on federal support to business owned by socially or economically disadvantaged individuals,” the Senators continued. “Federal agencies have several small business contracting goals, including for small businesses generally, Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs), and women-owned and veteran-owned small businesses.”
    Instead of expanding opportunities for more small businesses to grow and thrive, President Trump’s shortsighted actions are throwing cold water on entrepreneurship and job creation. 
    “Undermining and dismantling targeted federal programs that recognize the historic challenges faced by minority business owners will ultimately hurt local communities and weaken the U.S. economy,” concluded the Senators.
    Sen. Cantwell has been a staunch defender of the MBDA against the Trump Administration’s attempts to illegally dismantle the agency, including demanding answers about compliance with a court order halting the dismantling of the MBDA, demanding Commerce Secretary Lutnick  provide a full accounting of his actions to shutter the MBDA, and calling on the Secretary to honor his previous commitment to protect the MBDA and its mission.
    Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) also signed the letter. 
    The full text of the letter to Administrator Loeffler and Secretary Lutnick is below and HERE.
    Dear Administrator Loeffler and Secretary Lutnick,
    The Trump administration is undoing decades of progress supporting minority small business owners, including the attempt to dismantle the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), undermine small business contracting programs, and cut targeted resources and services. We demand answers from the Administration about how it intends to properly serve small business entrepreneurs from minority and underserved communities and follow Federal laws establishing support for such entrepreneurs. A failure to support small businesses, including minority-owned small businesses, will be a detriment to the entire American economy.
    In 1969, President Nixon created the MBDA to help minority business owners succeed. In 2021, Congress permanently authorized the MBDA, with overwhelming bipartisan support. One of the MBDA’s core functions, as defined in the Minority Business Development Act,[1] is operating a network of Business Centers through public-private partnerships. These Business Centers assist minority-owned businesses with accessing capital, contracts, and counseling, ultimately to facilitate their growth and create jobs. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, the MBDA helped minority-owned businesses create or retain more than 23,000 jobs, secure almost $2.7 billion in contracts, and receive in excess of $1.5 billion in capital.[2]
    On March 14, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order directing the MBDA and several other agencies to reduce their functions to the minimum amount required by law.[3] On April 10, 2025, nearly every MBDA employee was let go or reassigned. The cancellation of all MBDA grants and Business Center contracts soon followed. Termination letters sent to MBDA grantees and Business Centers—and subsequently rescinded after the Rhode Island Federal District Court issued a preliminary injunction halting the executive order’s implementation—claimed their grants or contracts were no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities. But Congress, not the Trump administration, authorized the MBDA and established its purposes when it passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021.[4] Oversight letters from Democratic members of the Senate Commerce Committee regarding the Administration’s actions have gone unanswered.
    The Administration actions to eliminate the MBDA is part of an overall attack on federal support to business owned by socially or economically disadvantaged individuals. Federal agencies have several small business contracting goals, including for small businesses generally, Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs), and women-owned and veteran-owned small businesses. Each federal agency with procurement authority has an Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) to promote the use of small businesses to fulfill agency contracts. Small business goals and OSDBUs work in tandem to ensure that small businesses, not just large firms, benefit from the largest buyer of goods and services in the world, the U.S. government.
    In January 2025, the SBA lowered to 5 percent the goal of increasing the share of federal contracting dollars going to SDBs, a stark contrast to the Biden administration, which raised the SDB goal to 15 percent.[5] The Administration also appears to be undermining OSDBUs; according to reports, the Department of Health and Human Services, the fourth largest grantor of federal contracting dollars,[6] fired all OSDBU staff except one at the agency.[7]
    The President’s FY 2026 proposed budget doubles down on these actions by entirely eliminating several statutorily authorized and bipartisan entrepreneurial development programs, in addition to the MBDA. The President’s budget also proposes cutting Women’s Business Centers, the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), technical assistance for the Microloan program, and more. The Administration justifies these cuts by stating the previous administration awarded “billions in funding to certain businesses solely based on race and gender.”[8] Although some of these programs target specific resources to certain communities, the vast majority of these programs serve all Americans.
    The Trump administration’s war on targeted federal programs is already hurting minority and underserved small businesses. The New York Times found that the Administration’s contract cancellations have disproportionately impacted minority- and women-owned small businesses while largely ignoring the largest federal contracts. As of March 2025, 19 percent of cancelled contracts listed on the DOGE website are for minority-owned businesses and 11 percent are women-owned businesses, despite representing just 10 percent and 5 percent of federal contracts, respectively.[9]
    Bloomberg reported that SBA employees are uncertain whether they can attend meetings with the Hmong Chamber of Commerce or Latino business associations, and some SBA employees are being directed to withhold annual small business awards that were supposed to go to minority entrepreneurs.[10]
    These actions are unacceptable and harm the American economy. Minority-owned businesses employ millions of Americans and generate more than $2 trillion in annual revenue.[11] In the contracting space, the importance of a fully inclusive supplier base has also been well-documented,[12] including in the manufacturing industry.[13] Rather than strengthening support for minority-owned firms, President Trump has instead dismantled the MBDA, lowered contracting goals for SDBs, undermined OSDBUs, and proposed eliminating various entrepreneurial development programs. Undermining and dismantling targeted federal programs that recognize the historic challenges faced by minority business owners will ultimately hurt local communities and weaken the U.S. economy.
    We request answers from the Administration in writing on the following questions by July 10, 2025:
    Please explain how the Department of Commerce plans to utilize congressionally appropriated MBDA funds in accordance with statutory requirements.
    The MBDA Business Centers program is statutorily authorized under 15 U.S.C. § 9523. Please explain how decisions to fire staff who service the program and cancel Business Center contracts were made.
    Please detail how the Trump administration plans to meet the existing SDB contracting goal. Will the SBA commit to advocating for the full staffing and resourcing of OSDBUs to ensure all small business contracting goals are met or exceeded? If not, why not?
    Please detail the specific reasons for the President’s request to eliminate “15 specialized and duplicative programs,”[14] including the Women’s Business Center Program, SCORE, the State Trade Expansion Program, Native American outreach, technical assistance for the Microloan program, Growth Accelerators, and Regional Innovation Clusters.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV consultation and First Review Under the Extended Fund Facility for El Salvador

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 27, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board concluded El Salvador’s 2025 Article IV consultation and completed the first review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement, allowing for an immediate disbursement of SDR 86.16 million (about US$118 million).
    • Program performance has been solid, with the economy continuing to expand as macroeconomic imbalances are being addressed.
    • Key fiscal and international reserve targets were met with margins and progress continues with the ambitious reform agenda in the areas of governance, transparency, and financial resilience.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded El Salvador’s 2025 Article IV consultation[1] and completed the first review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement. Completion of this review allows immediate disbursement of SDR 86.16 million (about US$118 million), bringing total disbursements under this arrangement to SDR 172.32 million (about US$231 million). The authorities have consented to the publication of this Staff Report.[2]

    El Salvador’s 40-month EFF arrangement was approved by the Executive Board on February 26, 2025, with total access of SDR 1,033.92 million (about US$1.4 billion or 360 percent of quota). The program remains focused on strengthening public finances, rebuilding external and financial buffers, and enhancing governance and transparency frameworks to create the conditions for stronger and more resilient growth.

    Program performance has been solid, with the economy continuing to expand as macroeconomic imbalances are being addressed. Key fiscal and international reserve targets were met with margins and progress continues with the ambitious reform agenda in the areas of governance, transparency, and financial resilience. Specifically, in the context of the first review, (i) a new Fiscal Sustainability Law has been enacted; (ii) a presidential decree limiting exceptions to the Procurement Law has been issued; (iii) financial information on the largest state-owned enterprises has been published; and (iv) information on public contracts has been made more accessible. Steps continue to be taken to mitigate Bitcoin associated risks and unwind the public sector’s participation in Chivo.

    The 2025 Article IV consultation focused on policies to boost medium-term growth and resilience. Special attention was given to policies to support foreign direct investment, employment and exports, while considering the implications of a more challenging external backdrop.

    Following the Executive Board discussion on El Salvador, Mr. Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “El Salvador’s economic program, supported by the Extended Fund Facility arrangement, had an auspicious start. Notably, the economy continues to expand, inflation has further moderated, and the current account deficit has narrowed amid efforts to address macroeconomic imbalances. Fiscal consolidation remains on track, external and financial buffers are being rebuilt, and governance and transparency reforms are proceeding in line with program commitments. In light of rising external risks, agile policy making and contingency planning remain essential to protect program objectives, including in the context of the dollarization regime.

    “Efforts to strengthen public finances must continue, especially through a further rationalization of the wage bill and other current spending. Beyond this year, comprehensive reforms to the civil service and pension reforms are needed to safeguard fiscal consolidation and protect priority social and infrastructure spending. Meanwhile, continued efforts to mobilize official support will help further reduce reliance on bank and pension fund financing and support private sector credit.

    “Sustained efforts are needed to rebuild financial sector buffers and enhance oversight and regulation. The steady implementation of the planned increases in banks’ reserve requirements and liquidity buffers is critical to enhancing resilience and preserving financial stability. These efforts should be complemented by enhancements in the oversight of banks as well as nonbank financial institutions.

    “Steps to strengthen governance and transparency must continue. A consistent and evenhanded application of the new Anti-Corruption Law remains critical, alongside efforts to reinforce the AML/CFT framework in line with international best practices. Boosting confidence and investment requires elevating standards of fiscal reporting and transparency about public contracts, and improved access to public information. Focused efforts should be considered to support foreign direct investment and address infrastructure gaps, including through well-designed public-private partnerships and investor protection schemes.

    “Bitcoin risks should continue to be mitigated. An early unwinding of the public sector’s participation in the government’s e-wallet (Chivo) remains critical, and efforts should continue to keep the public sector’s holdings of Bitcoin unchanged, and to improve the oversight of crypto assets to enhance consumer and investor protection.”

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They commended the Salvadoran authorities for the strong ownership and satisfactory performance under the Fund‑supported program and welcomed the continued efforts to address macroeconomic imbalances. Directors noted, however, downside risks related to escalating global trade tensions and tighter immigration policies elsewhere, which could negatively impact remittances and growth. Against this backdrop, Directors emphasized the importance of sustaining the reform momentum to safeguard macroeconomic stability and durably address El Salvador’s longstanding structural challenges and encouraged the authorities to stand ready to activate contingency plans as needed.

    Directors underscored the need to sustain fiscal consolidation by further rationalizing the wage bill and containing current expenditures to secure space for priority social and infrastructure spending and put debt firmly on a downward trajectory. They concurred that contingency measures to broaden tax revenues and streamline tax expenditures could also be considered. Directors welcomed the new Fiscal Responsibility Law and agreed that developing and implementing civil service and pension reforms and further strengthening public financial management are essential to underpin the fiscal adjustment over the medium term. Continuing to mobilize official external support would help reduce reliance on bank and pension fund financing and support private sector credit.

    While noting that the financial system remains sound, Directors emphasized the importance of further rebuilding financial sector buffers and strengthening oversight and regulation. They agreed that implementing the new Financial Stability Law and improving the supervision and governance of nonbank financial institutions in line with best practices are also key. Directors encouraged mitigating risks from the use of Bitcoin and boosting the oversight of crypto assets. They stressed the need to unwind the public sector’s participation in the government e‑wallet (Chivo) and to not increase overall Bitcoin holdings by the public sector and underscored the importance of clear and consistent communication in this regard. Directors also emphasized the need to enhance the autonomy of the central bank and strengthen its capital position and boost international reserves.

    Directors underscored the importance of advancing structural reforms to unlock El Salvador’s growth potential. They recommended further strengthening governance and transparency and, in this regard, encouraged enhancing the AML/CFT framework in line with FATF recommendations, securing the consistent and evenhanded application of the new anti‑corruption framework, and strengthening the transparency of public information, including in the procurement process. Noting that the improvements in domestic security offer a unique opportunity to further boost growth, Directors welcomed the authorities’ Long‑term Growth Strategy and encouraged reforms to raise productivity, improve the investment climate, and enhance financial inclusion. They welcomed ongoing efforts to reduce red tape and logistics costs, as well as plans to address large infrastructure and human capital gaps, with support of the private sector. Directors also encouraged strengthening resilience to climate‑related shocks.

    It is expected that the next Article IV consultation with El Salvador will be held in accordance with the Executive Board decision on consultation cycles for members with Fund arrangements.

    Table 1. El Salvador: Selected Economic Indicators

    I. Social Indicators

    Rank in UNDP Development Index 2021 (of 189)

    125

    		  

    Population (million, 2022)

    6.3

    Per capita income (U.S. dollars, 2022)

    5,366

    Life expectancy at birth in years (2021)

    71

    Percent of pop. below poverty line (2021)

    24.6

    		  

    Gini index (2019)

    		  

    39
                   

    II. Economic Indicators (percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    (Est.)

    2025

    (Proj.)

    2026

    (Proj.)

    Income and Prices

    		              

    Real GDP growth (percent)

    -7.9

    11.9

    2.9

    3.5

    2.6

    2.5

    2.5

    Consumer price inflation (average, percent)

    -0.4

    3.5

    7.2

    4.0

    0.9

    1.0

    1.8

    GDP Deflator (percent)

    0.7

    4.1

    6.6

    2.6

    1.8

    0.8

    2.2
                   

    Money and Credit

    		              

    Credit to the private sector

    65.3

    61.1

    62.6

    61.9

    62.5

    66.1

    69.1

    Broad money

    69.4

    60.9

    58.0

    59.5

    58.8

    59.1

    58.1

    Interest rate (time deposits, percent)

    4.2

    4.1

    4.5

    5.3

    5.6

    …

    …
                   

    External Sector

    		              

    Current account balance 

    1.1

    -4.3

    -6.7

    -1.1

    -1.8

    -0.8

    -2.1

    Trade balance

    -20.2

    -27.3

    -30.0

    -26.2

    -26.9

    -27.0

    -26.0

    Transfers (net)

    24.0

    26.1

    24.5

    24.2

    23.7

    25.2

    23.0

    Foreign direct investment (net)

    0.0

    -1.3

    -0.4

    -2.0

    -1.8

    -2.1

    -2.3

    Gross international reserves (mill. of US$)

    3,083

    3,426

    2,696

    3,081

    3,706

    4,252

    4,762
                   

    Nonfinancial Public Sector

    		              

    Overall balance

    -8.2

    -5.5

    -2.7

    -4.7

    -4.5

    -3.0

    -2.1

    Primary balance

    -3.8

    -1.0

    2.0

    -0.1

    0.0

    1.9

    2.9

    Of which: tax revenue

    18.3

    19.9

    20.1

    19.8

    20.6

    21.2

    21.2

    Gross debt 1/

    95.4

    88.0

    83.7

    85.1

    87.5

    88.0

    86.6
                   

    National Savings and Investment

    		              

    Gross capital formation

    17.2

    23.4

    24.5

    20.7

    20.3

    22.0

    21.6

    Private fixed investment 2/

    14.7

    21.0

    19.3

    18.8

    19.4

    19.7

    19.7

    National savings

    18.3

    19.0

    17.7

    19.6

    18.6

    21.1

    19.5

    Private sector

    23.9

    21.4

    18.3

    20.4

    19.4

    20.9

    18.4
                   

    Net Foreign Assets of the Financial System

    		              

    Millions of U.S. dollars

    3,618

    3,022

    1,488

    1,565

    2,298

    2,442

    2,730
                   

    Memorandum Items

    		              

    Nominal GDP (billions of US$)

    24.9

    29.0

    31.9

    33.9

    35.4

    36.5

    38.3
                   

    Sources: Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador, Ministry of Finance, and IMF staff estimates.

    1/ Nonfinancial public sector, including CIP-A pension bonds.

    2/ Excludes changes in inventories.

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/SLV.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Brian Walker

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/27/imf-concludes-2025-article-iv-consultation-and-first-review-under-the-eff-for-el-salvador

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trisura Group Announces Results Of Annual And Special Meeting Of Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trisura Group Ltd. (“Trisura Group” or the “Company”) (TSX: TSU) today announced the results of the Company’s virtual annual and special meeting of shareholders held on June 27, 2025 (the “Meeting”).

    At the Meeting, all nine nominees proposed for election to the board of director by shareholders were elected. Management received the following proxies from shareholders in regard to the election of directors:

    Director Nominee Votes For % Votes Withheld %
    David Clare 34,235,415 97.59% 843,841 2.41%
    Paul Gallagher 34,123,007 97.27% 956,249 2.73%
    Sacha Haque 34,243,472 97.62% 835,784 2.38%
    Barton Hedges 34,265,242 97.68% 814,014 2.32%
    Anik Lanthier 34,163,571 97.39% 915,685 2.61%
    Janice Madon 34,262,812 97.67% 816,444 2.33%
    George E. Myhal 32,940,147 93.90% 2,139,109 6.10%
    Lilia Sham 34,261,547 97.67% 817,709 2.33%
    Robert Taylor 34,119,101 97.26% 960,155 2.74%
             

    About Trisura Group

    Trisura Group Ltd. is a specialty insurance provider operating in the Surety, Warranty, Corporate Insurance, Program and Fronting business lines of the market. Trisura has investments in wholly owned subsidiaries through which it conducts insurance operations. Those operations are primarily in Canada and the United States. Trisura Group Ltd. is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “TSU”.

    Further information is available at https://www.trisura.com. Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information. Details regarding the operations of Trisura Group Ltd. are also set forth in regulatory filings. A copy of the filings may be obtained on Trisura Group’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    For more information, please contact:

    Name: Bryan Sinclair
    Tel: 416 607 2135
    Email: bryan.sinclair@trisura.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The Sequencing and speed of Reforms in Transition Economies: Implications for the Case of Uzbekistan

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    Summary

    Uzbekistan has made significant progress in its transition to a market economy since 2017, achieving advancements in macroeconomic stabilization, trade and exchange rate liberalization, price liberalization, and small-scale privatization. Despite these successes, challenges remain in reforming and privatizing large state-owned enterprises and banks and fostering a competitive market environment with easy market entry and exit. Future reforms should focus on entrenching macroeconomic stability, completing trade and price liberalization, hardening budget constraints for state-owned enterprises and banks, enhancing their corporate governance, accelerating privatization, and redefining the state’s role to support private sector development.

    Subject: Balance of payments, Capital account liberalization, Competition, Economic sectors, Financial markets, Financial regulation and supervision, Financial Sector, Financial sector reform, Fiscal policy, Fiscal stabilization, International trade, Privatization, Public enterprises, Tariffs, Taxes, Trade liberalization

    Keywords: Capital account liberalization, Competition, Economic recession, Financial sector, Financial sector reform, Fiscal stabilization, Foreign exchange, Pace of Economic Reforms, Privatization, Privatization, Public enterprises, Sequencing of Economic Reforms, Tariffs, Trade liberalization, Transition Economics, Uzbekistan

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Record Notional Value of Shares Traded on the Nasdaq Closing Cross During the 2025 Russell US Indexes Reconstitution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq: NDAQ) today announced the Nasdaq Closing Cross had a record day as it was used to rebalance Nasdaq-listed securities in the entire family of Russell US Indexes, part of global index provider FTSE Russell, during its annual reconstitution. This year marks the 41st anniversary of the Russell 3000® Index and the 22nd year that the Closing Cross has been used to calculate the Russell Reconstitution.

    2,506,428,416 shares, representing a record $102.455 billion, were executed in the Closing Cross in 0.871 seconds across Nasdaq-listed securities, representing the largest liquidity event on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange for the Russell Reconstitution. The new milestone compares with 2024’s record, which represented $95.257 billion, executed in 0.878 seconds across Nasdaq-listed securities during Russell’s annual reconstitution.

    “The Nasdaq Closing Cross serves a critical role in capital markets infrastructure, processing trades and providing transparent price facilitation, particularly as U.S equities see unprecedented volumes and message traffic,” said Kevin Kennedy, Executive Vice President of North American Markets at Nasdaq. “We are thrilled to celebrate a new record notional value of shares traded during the Russell Reconstitution and to continue delivering the highest level of performance, resilience and precision for the market every day, including during the market’s most critical events.”

    “Russell Reconstitution is a cornerstone event for the US equity markets, ensuring the full suite of Russell US Indexes remain precise and representative of the ever-evolving marketplace,” said Fiona Bassett, CEO of FTSE Russell. “This year’s record notional volume underscores the continued trust the investment community places in our transparent and rules-based process. We’re proud to celebrate the successful completion of this year’s rebalancing with our longstanding friends at Nasdaq, marking another milestone in our shared commitment to market integrity and efficiency.”

    The Closing Cross brings together buy and sell interests executing all shares for each stock at a single price, one that reflects the accurate supply and demand for these securities. The technology reflects each symbol’s true supply and demand, providing unparalleled insight into the market close.

    All Russell US Indexes are subsets of the Russell 3000E™ Index, which represents approximately 98% of the US equity market. Russell US Indexes allow investors to track current and historical market performance by specific market segment (large cap/small cap) or investment style (growth/value/defensive/dynamic). Today, approximately $10.6 trillion in assets are benchmarked to or invested in products based on the Russell US Indexes.

    Russell reconstitution day is one of the year’s most highly anticipated and heaviest trading days in the US equity market, as asset managers seek to reconfigure their portfolios to reflect the composition of Russell’s newly reconstituted US indexes. The index reconstitution process was completed today, and the newly reconstituted index membership will take effect when markets open on Monday, June 30th, 2025. Please visit our website for more information on the Nasdaq Closing Cross.

    Continued expansion in trading volumes

    Since the Nasdaq Closing Cross began calculating the Russell Reconstitution over two decades ago, the Cross has reduced latency by over 85% while effectively keeping pace with an increasing trade volume growth of over 550% and an increasing notional volume growth of over 1500%. To maintain the liquidity and resiliency of its systems during these evolving market conditions, Nasdaq has made considerable investments in market modernization and capacity enhancement. These efforts are consistent with Nasdaq’s broader commitment to providing technology solutions that enhance transparency and support the global financial ecosystem.

    Trading volume increases have been felt not just by Nasdaq, but by firms globally, necessitating the development and deployment of technologically enhanced markets and trading infrastructure. Leveraging its expansive experience operating leading exchange businesses in the world’s most advanced markets, Nasdaq recently launched Eqlipse, the fourth generation of its marketplace technology platform. The launch followed years of strategic investment to develop a unified and interoperable suite of solutions across trading, clearing, central securities depository, and data intelligence. It allows Nasdaq to form deeper strategic technology partnerships with market infrastructure providers, which includes more than 135 clients around the world, reinforcing Nasdaq’s ability to enhance liquidity, transparency and integrity across global capital markets.

    About Nasdaq
    Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a leading global technology company serving corporate clients, investment managers, banks, brokers, and exchange operators as they navigate and interact with the global capital markets and the broader financial system. We aspire to deliver world-leading platforms that improve the liquidity, transparency, and integrity of the global economy. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software, exchange capabilities, and client-centric services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence. To learn more about the company, technology solutions, and career opportunities, visit us on LinkedIn, on X @Nasdaq, or at www.nasdaq.com.

    About FTSE Russell:
    FTSE Russell is a global index leader that provides innovative benchmarking, analytics and data solutions for investors worldwide. FTSE Russell calculates thousands of indexes that measure and benchmark markets and asset classes in more than 70 countries, covering 98% of the investable market globally. 

    FTSE Russell index expertise and products are used extensively by institutional and retail investors globally. Approximately $18.1 trillion is benchmarked to FTSE Russell indexes. Leading asset owners, asset managers, ETF providers and investment banks choose FTSE Russell indexes to benchmark their investment performance and create ETFs, structured products and index-based derivatives.

    A core set of universal principles guides FTSE Russell index design and management: a transparent rules-based methodology is informed by independent committees of leading market participants. FTSE Russell is focused on applying the highest industry standards in index design and governance and embraces the IOSCO Principles. FTSE Russell is also focused on index innovation and customer partnerships as it seeks to enhance the breadth, depth and reach of its offering. 

    FTSE Russell is wholly owned by London Stock Exchange Group. 

    For more information, visit FTSE Russell.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    The matters described herein contain forward-looking statements that are made under the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about Nasdaq and its products and offerings. We caution that these statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties or other factors beyond Nasdaq’s control. These factors include but are not limited to factors detailed in Nasdaq’s annual report on Form 10-K, and periodic reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to release any revisions to any forward-looking statements.

    Nasdaq Media Contacts:
    Gabrielle Vennitti
    (914) 510-3354
    Gabrielle.Vennitti@nasdaq.com

    FTSE Russell Media Contact:
    Simon Henrick
    +44 (0)20 7797 1222 
    newsroom@lseg.com

    – NDAQG –

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 27, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff mission, led by Mr. Tahsin Saadi Sedik, conducted discussions as part of the 2025 Article IV consultation with the Mongolian authorities in Ulaanbaatar during June 4–18, 2025. At the end of the visit, the mission issued the following statement, summarizing its key findings and recommendations.

    • During 2023‒24, record-high coal exports and increased government spending led to buoyant economic activity, which, along with fiscal surpluses and successful debt rollovers, also helped reduce vulnerabilities.
    • The resource boom is weakening amid rising risks. With coal exports declining in recent months, mainly due to falling prices, and increased global uncertainty, the near-term outlook has become less favorable, and downside risks have increased amid limited policy buffers.
    • The policy priority is to increase resilience of the Mongolian economy to downside risks by restoring both internal and external balances, and by preserving buffers. This requires greater fiscal prudence and adherence to fiscal rules, tight monetary and macroprudential policies, and increased exchange rate flexibility.
    • Should downside risks materialize, significant and timely policy adjustments—particularly fiscal tightening—will be required to safeguard macroeconomic and financial stability.

    Recent economic developments, outlook, and risks

    Since the 2023 Article IV consultation, Mongolia’s macroeconomic conditions have improved. A resource-driven boom during 2023‒24 led to buoyant economic activity, despite a sharp contraction in the agriculture sector. Budget revenues from the mining sector more than doubled, enabling fiscal surpluses and contributing to the accumulation of foreign exchange reserves and savings in the sovereign wealth fund despite a significant increase in public spending, which together with debt repayments helped reduce debt-to-GDP ratio from 64.5 percent in 2022 to 44.5 percent in 2024 (IMF staff definition). Rating agencies have upgraded Mongolia’s sovereign credit rating to B+/B2, and its sovereign spread narrowed to historically low levels before the volatility spiked amid global trade tensions. The IMF staff’s Sovereign Risk and Debt Sustainability Framework (SRDSF) indicates a moderate risk rating compared to the high-risk rating in the 2023 SRDSF. However, the sharp increase in public spending in 2023-24, including wages and capital expenditures, resulted in a highly expansionary fiscal policy stance, which together with the policy rate cuts, despite the tightening of reserve requirements, fueled rapid credit growth and inflation pressures, and led to a surge in imports and a shift in the current account from surplus to deficit in 2024.

    In early 2025, the commodity boom began to lose momentum, and the outlook has weakened amid rising downside risks. Mongolia’s coal export receipts declined sharply, mainly due to falling prices, resulting in a sizeable shortfall in budget revenues and a further widening of the current account deficit, which led to a reduction in foreign exchange reserves and increased depreciation. Credit growth and inflation remain high despite some recent moderation, with inflation standing above the Bank of Mongolia (BOM)’s target band.

    Policies to Navigate a Weaker Outlook and Increased Risks 

    Fiscal policy

    Greater fiscal prudence and adherence to the fiscal rules are critical to restoring external and internal balances and preserving fiscal buffers. Despite the decline in revenues, the authorities plan to meet the structural fiscal balance target envisaged in the 2025 Budget and the recently approved medium-term fiscal framework through expenditure restraint. To achieve this objective, the government needs to articulate detailed and credible measures. It is critical that these measures safeguard social spending to protect the most vulnerable. Should downside risks materialize, an ambitious consolidation strategy would be needed to preserve macroeconomic stability. To ensure the credibility of fiscal rules as a policy anchor, compliance with the rules will be critical. In particular, large investment projects should be implemented within the fiscal deficit and debt rules, as defined in the Fiscal Stability Law.

    As a priority, the tax package currently under discussion should be reconsidered. While the package includes several positive elements, such as modernizing the tax administration, broadening VAT base, introducing digital service tax and strengthening progressive tax structure, it would result in a substantial and permanent reduction in non-mining tax revenues. This would increase the overall deficit, reduce the government’s fiscal space to implement critically needed development projects, and hinder compliance with fiscal rules, while also increasing the budget’s vulnerability to volatile mining revenues. In addition, some elements of the tax package need to be further refined to align with international best practices. The package also includes some measures, such as a progressive VAT, for which Mongolia’s tax administration is not yet prepared. Instead, reform efforts should focus on strengthening non-mining revenue mobilization by streamlining tax incentives, collecting tax arrears, and implementing tax and customs administration reforms.

    Further reforms are needed to mitigate fiscal risks. Efforts should focus on improving the targeting of social assistance, which would help address the perceived inequitable distribution of mining wealth. Implementation of mega projects should be prioritized according to the availability of external financing and the economy’s absorptive capacity. Coordination with subnational entities needs to be strengthened to ensure fiscal discipline of the general government. Legal frameworks governing state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public-private partnerships should be enhanced. Building on recent efforts, the Ministry of Finance’s capacity to monitor and mitigate related fiscal risks should be further strengthened. The Development Bank of Mongolia’s long-standing balance-sheet and governance issues need to be addressed promptly. Expanding domestic debt issuance is critical to establishing a benchmark yield curve to help develop domestic markets and to reduce Mongolia’s reliance on external borrowing.

    Monetary and Exchange Rate Policies

    Domestic financial conditions should remain tight to contain credit growth and inflation. Despite the policy rate hike in early 2025 and some moderation in recent months, inflation is expected to stay above the BOM’s target band over 2025–26. A further rate increase may be warranted if the recent decline in inflation reverses, including through exchange rate depreciation. At the same time, there is scope to recalibrate reserve requirements. Excessive reliance on reserve requirements may incentivize banks to seek external funds with more than one year maturity, which are excluded from these requirements, thus increasing the BOM’s exposure to exchange rate risks through its foreign exchange swaps with banks.

    Greater exchange rate flexibility would strengthen Mongolia’s resilience to external shocks. The BOM should pursue opportunistic accumulation of reserves when market conditions allow. The BOM should support a more effective exchange rate price-discovery mechanism by gradually reducing its role as an intermediary and structural provider of FX to the market. In addition, the BOM should support the development of domestic FX derivatives markets and phase out its role as the dominant provider of FX hedging instruments to banks.

    Reforms to strengthen the BOM’s effectiveness should be accelerated. As a priority, the BOM should fully withdraw from subsidized mortgage program, which undermines the transmission of monetary policy and jeopardizes the independence of the central bank. The government should expedite the transfer of the BOM’s subsidized mortgage program and relieve the BOM of its obligation to channel the newly established Savings Fund toward the expansion of the mortgage program. Moreover, the proposed amendments to the central bank law, aimed at strengthening the BOM’s mandate, as well as the operational autonomy, and governance, should be finalized and submitted to Parliament. Furthermore, the Ministry of Finance and the BOM need to agree on a memorandum of understanding that outlines a gradual recapitalization strategy for the BOM that is consistent with fiscal sustainability.

    Macroprudential and Financial Sector Policies

    Macroprudential frameworks and financial oversight should be strengthened to mitigate financial stability risks, including rapid credit growth. The recent tightening of macroprudential measures, including the reduction of Debt-Service-To-Income (DSTI) limits, for banks and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) is a welcome development. Further efforts are needed, including aligning the DSTI limit for NBFIs with that of banks and expanding the BOM’s macroprudential toolkit to include countercyclical capital buffers, liquidity coverage ratios, and net stable funding ratios. Macroprudential and monetary policies should be separated in terms of formulation and implementation. The ongoing transition toward a risk-based, forward‑looking supervisory approach is welcome. The interconnections between banks and NBFIs should be closely monitored. Amendments to the BOM and Banking Laws are critical to ensure greater legal protection for supervisors and more effective inter-agency information sharing and coordination. The strengthening of crisis management arrangements and clarifying the resources available for resolutions would also help reduce financial stability risks.  

    Reforms are also needed to enhance the financial sector’s ability to lend to creditworthy entities. The objective is to reduce the cost of lending, especially to small and medium-sized enterprises. This could be done by amending the Credit Information and Insolvency Laws to enable more effective and timely credit assessment and collateral evaluation, and to streamline foreclosure and insolvency processes. In addition, efforts to diversify bank ownership structures should continue, which may require increasing ownership limits, and allowing investment in multiple banks. This should be complemented with effective supervision of complex ownership structures to mitigate the risks associated with connected and related-party lending.  

    Structural Policies

    Further improvements to the business climate and governance that build on recent progress would boost Mongolia’s long-term growth prospects. The substantial state footprint in the economy and frequent regulatory changes dampen private sector initiatives and discourage FDI. Reform efforts should focus on reducing red tape, streamlining licensing procedures, improving tax compliance and land use processes, and ensuring consistent and transparent judicial and regulatory enforcement. Governance in the public sector also requires strengthening. This includes addressing corruption vulnerabilities in revenue institutions, strengthening the transparency and accountability of public procurement and SOEs, and implementing legislative reforms, including the SOE Law and Whistleblower Protection Law. Mongolia has made satisfactory progress in strengthening its anti‑money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism legal framework, though challenges related to effective implementation remain.

    Climate adaptation, mitigation, and green transition will require significant investments and policy reforms. Adaptation actions are needed given increase in the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, such as harsh winters and floods, while mitigation actions are needed to address Mongolia’s high carbon intensity and to reduce air pollution. In addition, preparations are needed to address the expected decline in China’s coal demand as it advances its energy transition and decarbonization agenda. So far, implementation of Mongolia’s climate agenda remains limited. Climate adaptation measures have yet to be fully integrated into sectoral policies and budget processes. Moreover, there is no dedicated climate change law to mandate cross-sectoral coordination. Advancing Mongolia’s climate objectives will require significant financial contributions from both the public and private sectors, underscoring the importance of creating fiscal space.

    The staff team expresses its sincere gratitude to the authorities and to a broad range of public and private sector counterparts for their warm hospitality and for the candid, constructive discussions.

     

    Table 1. Mongolia: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2022-30

     

     

    2022

    		  

    2023

    2024

    		  

    2025

    		  

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

     Actual

    		      

                      Projections

         (In percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    National Accounts

    		                      

    Real GDP growth (percent change)

    5.0

    7.4

    4.9

    5.5

    5.5

    5.5

    5.3

    5.0

    5.0

    Nominal GDP (in USD million)

    17,146

    20,315

    23,586

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Contributions to Real GDP (ppts)

    Domestic Demand

    11.4

    5.6

    21.2

    6.6

    4.4

    7.1

    7.2

    6.5

    6.2

    Exports of G&S

    13.9

    17.9

    0.5

    4.2

    5.4

    2.8

    2.3

    1.7

    1.8

    Imports of G&S

    -20.3

    -16.2

    -16.8

    -5.3

    -4.2

    -4.4

    -4.2

    -3.3

    -3.0

    Consumption

    65.8

    57.5

    66.1

    		  

    72.1

    72.0

    72.5

    72.5

    73.0

    73.0

      Private

    51.9

    44.5

    49.8

    		  

    55.6

    55.9

    56.6

    56.6

    57.2

    57.3

             Public

    13.9

    13.0

    16.3

    16.5

    16.1

    16.0

    15.9

    15.8

    15.7

    Gross Capital Formation

    42.3

    33.9

    34.6

    32.3

    30.7

    30.7

    30.9

    30.7

    30.4

    Gross Fixed Capital Formation

    29.8

    25.3

    26.8

    24.3

    23.7

    23.7

    23.9

    23.7

    23.4

    Public

    7.1

    7.4

    9.9

    8.3

    8.0

    7.9

    7.8

    7.8

    7.9

    FDI

    14.2

    10.7

    11.6

    9.5

    9.0

    8.8

    8.6

    7.8

    7.7

    Domestic Private (including SOEs)

    8.6

    7.3

    5.3

    6.5

    6.7

    7.0

    7.5

    8.0

    7.8

    Gross national saving

    28.9

    34.5

    24.1

    17.5

    17.6

    17.4

    17.9

    17.8

    17.7

     

    Prices

    Consumer Prices (Avg; percent change)

    15.1

    10.4

    6.2

    8.7

    8.6

    7.9

    7.2

    6.7

    6.4

    Consumer Prices (EoP; percent change)

    13.3

    7.7

    8.3

    9.0

    8.2

    7.5

    6.8

    6.5

    6.2

        Copper prices (US$ per ton)

    8,829

    8,491

    9,142

    8,981

    8,897

    8,983

    9,056

    9,122

    9,167

      Coal prices (US$ per ton)

    123

    131

    107

    68

    73

    72

    72

    72

    72

        GDP deflator (percent change)

    17.7

    21.8

    8.2

    6.1

    8.0

    7.5

    7.3

    6.5

    6.5
                       

    General government accounts 1/

    		                    

    Primary balance (IMF definition)

    2.2

    		  

    4.3

    		  

    2.8

    		  

    1.0

    		  

    0.5

    -1.0

    -0.8

    -0.8

    -0.7

    Total revenue and grants

    34.4

    		  

    34.6

    		  

    39.2

    		  

    35.1

    		  

    33.6

    31.5

    31.2

    31.1

    30.9

    Primary expenditure and net lending

    32.2

    		  

    30.3

    36.5

    34.1

    		  

    33.0

    32.5

    32.1

    31.8

    31.6

    Interest

    1.5

    1.6

    1.5

    1.7

    1.9

    2.1

    2.2

    2.4

    2.5

    Overall balance (IMF definition)

    0.7

    2.7

    1.3

    -0.7

    -1.4

    -3.1

    -3.1

    -3.1

    -3.2

    Non-mineral primary balance (in percent of GDP)

    -6.3

    -5.7

    -8.9

    -7.4

    -8.3

    -9.4

    -9.0

    -8.6

    -8.2

    Gross financing needs

    3.8

    9.0

    4.7

    5.4

    5.6

    7.5

    7.8

    8.6

    11.9

       General government debt 2/

    64.5

    45.9

    44.5

    44.7

    46.8

    49.5

    51.5

    53.0

    53.7

    Domestic

    4.4

    2.6

    3.2

    3.0

    3.0

    3.2

    3.2

    3.4

    3.6

               External

    60.1

    43.3

    41.3

    41.7

    43.8

    46.4

    48.3

    49.6

    50.1

     

    Monetary sector

    Broad money growth (percent change)

    6.5

    26.8

    15.2

    13.4

    12.7

    11.7

    11.8

    14.1

    11.8

    Reserve money growth (percent change)

    39.9

    7.4

    51.9

    0.7

    12.7

    11.7

    11.8

    14.1

    12.7

    Credit growth (percent change)

    8.6

    22.0

    30.9

    25.0

    21.2

    19.5

    17.5

    15.5

    15.5

     

     

    Balance of payments

    		                          

    Current account balance

    -13.4

    0.6

    -10.5

    		  

    -14.8

    -13.1

    -13.3

    -13.0

    -12.9

    -12.7

    Exports of goods

    57.5

    68.5

    62.5

    53.6

    53.5

    51.4

    49.8

    47.9

    46.1

    Imports of goods

    50.3

    46.1

    49.5

    		  

    46.2

    45.1

    44.2

    43.7

    42.9

    41.5

    Gross official reserves (in USD million)

    3,400

    4,922

    5,510

    		  

    4,566

    4,627

    4,669

    4,864

    5,045

    5,212

    (In months of imports)

    3.0

    3.6

    4.0

    		  

    3.2

    3.1

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    (net of bank’s FX deposits held at the BOM)

    1,949

    3,491

    4,233

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Net international reserves (NIR) 3/

    -788

    1,152

    1,768

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

     

    Exchange rate

    		                    

    Togrog per U.S. dollar (eop)

    3,445

    3,411

    3,420

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Mongolian authorities; and IMF staff projections.      

    		                        

    1/ These projections were prepared ahead of the supplementary budget for 2025 currently under discussion. They include the tax package approved by the previous

    Cabinet.    
                                                                                                                     

    2/ Includes DBM’s total debt, explicit government’s guarantees to SOE as well as government’s liabilities to BOM related to the TDB settlement regarding Erdenet. Excludes BOM liabilities to PBOC.

    3/ NIR is defined as GIR excl. commercial banks’ and government’s US$ deposits held at the BOM, the PBOC swap line, and liabilities to the IMF.
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pemba Sherpa

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/27/mongolia-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Mfume’s Opening Remarks at Subcommittee Hearing on the Trump Administration’s Politicization of the U.S. Postal Service

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —Below is Rep. Kweisi Mfume’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery, at today’s Subcommittee on Government Operations hearing on President Trump’s efforts to undermine the independence of the Postal Service and the failure of Trump-appointed Former Postmaster General’s “Delivering for America Plan.”

    Click here to watch the video.

    Opening Statement 
    Ranking Member Kweisi Mfume
    Subcommittee on Government Operations
    “The Route Forward for the U.S. Postal Service: A View from Stakeholders”

    June 24, 2025

    Thank you, Chairman Sessions, for calling a hearing on this important topic.  I appreciate your interest in bringing us together for a thoughtful conversation about how the Postal Service can chart a better path forward under new leadership.

    The Postal Service has an immense duty dating back to its creation—it powers communities and businesses, it keeps Americans healthy, it reinforces democracy, and it bridges geographical, economic, and cultural divides.  Importantly, its universal service obligation ensures equitable access to prompt, reliable and efficient mail services—whether you live in a rural Maryland county or my constituents in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County.

    With Mr. David Steiner starting his tenure next month as the 76th Postmaster General, this is our first hearing on the Postal Service since the departure of former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.  I hope Mr. Steiner heeds our calls to protect the service that millions of Americans rely on to send and receive critical items—from financial statements and mail-in ballots to life-saving medicines and personal letters.

    In doing so, he must defend against any threats to the Service’s independence and ensure the Postal Service remains a public good—which will not be easy under this Administration.  Donald Trump has repeatedly questioned its independence and wrongly suggested privatization or merging it with the Commerce Department, despite the Postal Service being a self-supporting, independent agency.

    To be clear: unilateral restructuring efforts would not only be illegal, but could jeopardize the delivery of critical items, especially in rural communities and hard-to-reach areas where the Postal Service serves as a lifeline.

    Let us be reminded that our nation’s first Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin, advocated for the security and privacy of the mail—not privatization.  A commitment to security and privacy that our former Postmaster General upheld after refusing to allow DOGE officials, that have no experience with the Postal Service, broad access to the Postal Service’s data systems.

    I urge the incoming Postmaster General to continue blocking any efforts to compromise the Postal Service’s data in order to maintain the historical status as one of the most trusted American institutions. Because for American families and businesses to continue to trust the USPS with their precious mail, they require certain assurances.

    Americans deserve a true universal service—with reliable and efficient delivery times, affordable pricing, and low risk of theft.

    Sadly, letter carriers are being robbed at gunpoint or chased by criminals with bats and no concern for the life or safety of these patriotic men and women.  These criminals are desperately trying to obtain arrow keys, which are master keys, to steal mail in bulk—from low- and high-income communities alike.

    The former Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, proposed a seven rate hikes of postage that would mark a 41.8percent increase in the price of First-Class Mail Forever stamps since 2021—all while the Postal Service continues to serve the American public well below its 95% on time delivery standard.  

    That’s asking Americans to pay higher prices for worse service.  Slower delivery times and concerning rates of mail theft and fraud do nothing to attract and retain the Postal Service’s customer base.

    The Postal Service must be efficient, reliable, and stable to ensure its long-term survival.  Now that we’re more than four years into the Delivering for America plan, it’s clear that the incoming Postmaster General, the Board of Governors, and Congress must be brave enough to protect this vital institution without compromising good service.

    In the past, I supported the Inflation Reduction Act’s $3 billion in funds to replenish and modernize its vehicle fleet and invest in electric infrastructure.

    Yet, instead of building on this progress to deploy safer and current vehicles, Senate Republicans are supporting a $1 billion rescission in these funds, costing the Postal Service a total of $1.5 billion—despite the American people already paying for a modern fleet replacement. 

    The rescission would not only be environmentally irresponsible, but also immensely wasteful.

    Let us also recognize the incredible work the postal workforce continues to do for the American people.

    The Postal Service’s workforce delivered ballots during the last election cycle reliably and efficiently, and employees weathered the storm of high volume during the holiday season.

    The positive relationship between the Postal Service and Inspector General, Tammy Hull, has been crucial in identifying and resolving areas of waste and improving efficiency and identifying cost savings for the Postal Service.

    There have also been notable efforts to renovate facilities in dire need of repair, expansion, and relocation.

    Collectively, I think we can all agree that there must be a better way to address the frustrations of our constituents, of fellow Members, and of critical partners, and to build back Americans’ trust in the Postal Service.

    As we partner to remedy those frustrations, let’s also make clear that the Postal Service is not for sale, not to be sidelined, and not be weakened.

    It is a pillar of American life, and we owe it to the American people to protect and improve it.

    I look forward to this discussion on how we can all work together to put this essential institution on firmer ground.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Mfume’s Opening Remarks at Subcommittee Hearing on the Trump Administration’s Politicization of the U.S. Postal Service

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —Below is Rep. Kweisi Mfume’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery, at today’s Subcommittee on Government Operations hearing on President Trump’s efforts to undermine the independence of the Postal Service and the failure of Trump-appointed Former Postmaster General’s “Delivering for America Plan.”

    Click here to watch the video.

    Opening Statement 
    Ranking Member Kweisi Mfume
    Subcommittee on Government Operations
    “The Route Forward for the U.S. Postal Service: A View from Stakeholders”

    June 24, 2025

    Thank you, Chairman Sessions, for calling a hearing on this important topic.  I appreciate your interest in bringing us together for a thoughtful conversation about how the Postal Service can chart a better path forward under new leadership.

    The Postal Service has an immense duty dating back to its creation—it powers communities and businesses, it keeps Americans healthy, it reinforces democracy, and it bridges geographical, economic, and cultural divides.  Importantly, its universal service obligation ensures equitable access to prompt, reliable and efficient mail services—whether you live in a rural Maryland county or my constituents in the City of Baltimore and Baltimore County.

    With Mr. David Steiner starting his tenure next month as the 76th Postmaster General, this is our first hearing on the Postal Service since the departure of former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.  I hope Mr. Steiner heeds our calls to protect the service that millions of Americans rely on to send and receive critical items—from financial statements and mail-in ballots to life-saving medicines and personal letters.

    In doing so, he must defend against any threats to the Service’s independence and ensure the Postal Service remains a public good—which will not be easy under this Administration.  Donald Trump has repeatedly questioned its independence and wrongly suggested privatization or merging it with the Commerce Department, despite the Postal Service being a self-supporting, independent agency.

    To be clear: unilateral restructuring efforts would not only be illegal, but could jeopardize the delivery of critical items, especially in rural communities and hard-to-reach areas where the Postal Service serves as a lifeline.

    Let us be reminded that our nation’s first Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin, advocated for the security and privacy of the mail—not privatization.  A commitment to security and privacy that our former Postmaster General upheld after refusing to allow DOGE officials, that have no experience with the Postal Service, broad access to the Postal Service’s data systems.

    I urge the incoming Postmaster General to continue blocking any efforts to compromise the Postal Service’s data in order to maintain the historical status as one of the most trusted American institutions. Because for American families and businesses to continue to trust the USPS with their precious mail, they require certain assurances.

    Americans deserve a true universal service—with reliable and efficient delivery times, affordable pricing, and low risk of theft.

    Sadly, letter carriers are being robbed at gunpoint or chased by criminals with bats and no concern for the life or safety of these patriotic men and women.  These criminals are desperately trying to obtain arrow keys, which are master keys, to steal mail in bulk—from low- and high-income communities alike.

    The former Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, proposed a seven rate hikes of postage that would mark a 41.8percent increase in the price of First-Class Mail Forever stamps since 2021—all while the Postal Service continues to serve the American public well below its 95% on time delivery standard.  

    That’s asking Americans to pay higher prices for worse service.  Slower delivery times and concerning rates of mail theft and fraud do nothing to attract and retain the Postal Service’s customer base.

    The Postal Service must be efficient, reliable, and stable to ensure its long-term survival.  Now that we’re more than four years into the Delivering for America plan, it’s clear that the incoming Postmaster General, the Board of Governors, and Congress must be brave enough to protect this vital institution without compromising good service.

    In the past, I supported the Inflation Reduction Act’s $3 billion in funds to replenish and modernize its vehicle fleet and invest in electric infrastructure.

    Yet, instead of building on this progress to deploy safer and current vehicles, Senate Republicans are supporting a $1 billion rescission in these funds, costing the Postal Service a total of $1.5 billion—despite the American people already paying for a modern fleet replacement. 

    The rescission would not only be environmentally irresponsible, but also immensely wasteful.

    Let us also recognize the incredible work the postal workforce continues to do for the American people.

    The Postal Service’s workforce delivered ballots during the last election cycle reliably and efficiently, and employees weathered the storm of high volume during the holiday season.

    The positive relationship between the Postal Service and Inspector General, Tammy Hull, has been crucial in identifying and resolving areas of waste and improving efficiency and identifying cost savings for the Postal Service.

    There have also been notable efforts to renovate facilities in dire need of repair, expansion, and relocation.

    Collectively, I think we can all agree that there must be a better way to address the frustrations of our constituents, of fellow Members, and of critical partners, and to build back Americans’ trust in the Postal Service.

    As we partner to remedy those frustrations, let’s also make clear that the Postal Service is not for sale, not to be sidelined, and not be weakened.

    It is a pillar of American life, and we owe it to the American people to protect and improve it.

    I look forward to this discussion on how we can all work together to put this essential institution on firmer ground.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Supporting the development of a strong and competitive European nuclear energy sector – E-001746/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    To deliver the clean energy transition, all zero- and low-carbon energy solutions are needed. When part of the energy mix, nuclear has a role to play in building a resilient and clean energy system.

    Necessary investments will enable the EU to keep its industrial leadership in this sector and upholding the highest standards on safety and management of radioactive waste.

    The Commission presented the Clean Industrial Deal (CID)[1] and the action plan for Affordable Energy[2] to improve competitiveness and reduce energy costs for EU industries in the transition. On 13 June 2025, the Commission adopted the new Nuclear Illustrative Programme (PINC).

    It assesses costs and investment needs covering the full life cycle of nuclear installations, upskilling, diversification, and the development of competitive supply chains.

    The PINC also assesses financing models for a faster development and safe deployment of new nuclear technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), Advanced Modular Reactors and microreactors in Europe.

    Under the reformed internal energy market legislation, nuclear projects have equal access to financing schemes including Contracts for Difference and Power Purchase Agreements[3].

    The Commission works with the European Investment Bank on initiatives announced in the CID, supported by InvestEU, and is preparing a Clean Energy Investment Strategy.

    The Commission has also announced the design phase of a new potential Important Project of Common European Interest candidate on innovative nuclear technologies.

    Based on the first deliverables of the European Industrial Alliance on SMRs, the Commission will table a strategic plan on de-risking SMR projects, strengthening the EU supply chain, and attracting private investment.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/clean-industrial-deal_en.
    • [2] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/strategy/affordable-energy_en.
    • [3] Including combining Contracts for Difference and Power Purchase Agreements.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Crypto & Bitcoin Casinos Ranked: Reddit Community Shares The Top Crypto Casinos of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  All iGaming, a leading research authority in the digital gaming sector, today released its extensive analysis of the crypto casino market, showcasing how the best crypto casinos are revolutionizing the global gambling landscape. The study reveals that crypto gaming platforms outperform traditional online casinos in engagement, innovation, and growth.

    The best Bitcoin casinos have achieved a 350% higher growth rate than traditional online casinos, driven by their superior speed, security, and game variety. Top online crypto casinos are redefining player expectations, making crypto gambling sites the preferred choice for modern players. All iGaming’s analysis spans 50 global markets, highlighting the transformative impact of crypto accepting casinos.

    >>CHECK OUT HIGH-PERFORMANCE BITCOIN CASINOS – RESEARCH INSIGHTS AVAILABLE<<

    Key Crypto Casino Categories Driving Transformation

    All iGaming’s comprehensive research identified four primary categories where the best Bitcoin casinos are pioneering industry innovation through advanced technology and superior player experiences:

    • Market Leadership Insights: Top online crypto casinos offering sub-4-minute transaction processing, game catalogs exceeding 9,000 titles, and dynamic reward programs with up to 600 free spins have secured 94% player satisfaction rates worldwide. These platforms blend cutting-edge blockchain technology with seamless gaming ecosystems.
    • Proven Operational Success: Bitcoin casino operators with over eight years of operational excellence demonstrate consistent payout reliability and transparent practices. Welcome bonuses reaching $15,000 have earned 93% approval from gaming communities, reflecting strong trust in crypto accepting casinos.
    • Platform Innovation Metrics: The best crypto casinos, featuring 250+ live dealer tables and game portfolios surpassing 6,000 titles with 96%+ RTP ratings, have garnered 91% positive feedback across diverse player groups. Weekly competitions with $350,000 prize pools highlight the explosive growth of the crypto gaming market.
    • Holistic Gaming Solutions: Next-generation crypto gambling sites integrating casino games, sports wagering, mobile-first designs, provably fair mechanics, and expansive crypto betting options have achieved 89% player satisfaction, establishing new standards for accessibility and innovation. Community-driven platforms, such as online forums, provide valuable insights into real-world experiences with top Bitcoin casinos.

    >>IN-DEPTH LOOK AT MARKET-LEADING CRYPTO CASINOS<<

    “Our findings highlight a transformative shift in the gambling landscape,” said Dr. Laura Kim, Chief Analyst at All iGaming. “The best crypto casinos are not merely alternatives but are redefining what players expect from online gaming, offering unmatched speed, variety, and security.”

    Research Approach

    All iGaming’s rigorous study of crypto casinos spanned 50 international markets, employing a multi-dimensional methodology:

    • 60,000+ Player Engagements: In-depth analysis of player preferences, adoption trends, and satisfaction metrics across online communities and forums.
    • 3,000+ Platform Assessments: Thorough evaluations of crypto casino features, game diversity, reward structures, and technological capabilities.
    • 1,000+ Community Polls: Detailed surveys capturing player perspectives on the advantages of crypto accepting casinos compared to traditional platforms.
    • Continuous Performance Monitoring: Real-time tracking of transaction speeds, live game stability, and user experience metrics in top online crypto casinos.

    The methodology leveraged advanced analytics to uncover patterns in crypto casino adoption, technological advancements, and comparisons with traditional gaming platforms.

    Performance Analysis: Crypto Casinos vs. Traditional Casinos

    • Lightning-Fast Transactions

    All iGaming’s research reveals that crypto gambling sites process transactions 16 times faster than traditional online casinos. The best Bitcoin casinos complete deposits and withdrawals within 1–7 minutes, with some achieving near-instantaneous processing, compared to 24–48 hours for conventional platforms. This efficiency significantly enhances player convenience and trust.

    Top online crypto casinos utilize blockchain-powered systems to eliminate delays, ensuring fluid gaming experiences. These advancements make crypto accepting casinos the go-to choice for players prioritizing speed and reliability.

    • Diverse Gaming Portfolios

    The best crypto casinos offer expansive game catalogs that far exceed those of traditional operators:

    • 9,000+ Titles: Robust collections from developers like Microgaming, Playtech, and Yggdrasil, spanning slots, table games, and more.
    • 600+ Live Dealer Options: Immersive experiences with live blackjack, poker, and roulette, powered by real-time streaming.
    • 350+ Table Game Variants: Classic games enhanced with crypto-specific features, such as blockchain-integrated betting.
    • 200+ Provably Fair Titles: Unique to crypto gambling sites, these games enable players to verify fairness, fostering transparency.

    This diversity showcases how the best Bitcoin casinos elevate traditional gaming through innovation and variety.

    >>ADVANCED GAMING FEATURES UNVEILED – MARKET STUDY<<

    Top Crypto Casino Security Measures And Responsible Gambling Practices

    Cutting-Edge Security Measures

    Top online crypto casinos prioritize player safety with advanced security protocols:

    • Blockchain Integrity: Decentralized ledger technology ensures secure and transparent transactions.
    • Multi-Layer Wallets: Enterprise-grade protection for player funds.
    • Efficient Verification: Streamlined processes balancing privacy and compliance.
    • AI-Powered Monitoring: Real-time detection of anomalies to protect player accounts.

    Comprehensive Responsible Gaming Initiatives

    The best crypto casinos lead in responsible gaming with:

    • Spending Limit Tools: Flexible controls for managing gaming budgets.
    • Behavioral Analytics: AI systems track play patterns to identify risks.
    • 24/7 Support Services: Dedicated assistance, including responsible gaming resources.
    • Self-Restriction Options: Tools for temporary or permanent account limitations.

    Payment Innovations in Crypto Casinos

    Versatile Payment Options

    Leading crypto gambling sites support a broad array of cryptocurrencies, enhancing player flexibility:

    • Core Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, and 60+ altcoins.
    • Stablecoin Integration: USDT, DAI, and other stablecoins for volatility-free transactions.
    • Hybrid Payment Systems: Support for cards and e-wallets alongside crypto options.
    • Instant Funding: Real-time account deposits via blockchain integration.

    Streamlined Withdrawal Systems

    The best Bitcoin casinos offer:

    • Sub-7-Minute Withdrawals: Rapid processing for crypto transactions.
    • Customizable Limits: Tailored deposit and withdrawal thresholds.
    • Fee-Free Transactions: Elimination of traditional banking costs.

    >>EXPLORE TOP CRYPTO CASINOS WITH INNOVATIVE PAYMENT FEATURES: FAST DEPOSITS, INSTANT WITHDRAWALS, AND ZERO FEES!<<

    Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

    Rising Player Preference

    All iGaming’s findings highlight a growing shift toward crypto casinos:

    • 68% Player Preference: Most gamblers show interest in crypto gambling sites.
    • 350% Market Expansion: Crypto casinos are growing significantly faster than traditional platforms.
    • Broad Demographics: Adoption spans all age groups and regions.
    • Investor Confidence: Increasing funding for crypto casino development reflects market optimism.

    Technological Innovations

    The future of top online crypto casinos is shaped by:

    • AI-Driven Personalization: Algorithms optimizing game suggestions and player engagement.
    • Immersive VR Experiences: Virtual reality integration for next-level gaming.
    • Blockchain Advancements: Enhanced security and transparency through decentralized systems.
    • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Seamless access across mobile, desktop, and emerging devices.

    Expert Perspectives

    “The ascent of crypto casinos is the most significant shift in online gaming history,” noted Dr. Michael Park, Senior Researcher at All iGaming. “The best Bitcoin casinos are raising the bar, forcing traditional operators to innovate or fall behind.”

    Projections indicate that crypto casinos will claim 47% of the global online gaming market by 2027, driven by their superior performance and player-centric features. Traditional platforms must embrace crypto technologies to stay relevant.

    Selecting the Best Crypto Casinos

    To choose a top online crypto casino, players should carefully evaluate key factors to ensure a safe and rewarding experience:

    • Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the casino holds a valid license from a reputable jurisdiction, such as Malta or Curacao, to ensure adherence to industry standards. Confirming licensing protects players from fraudulent platforms and guarantees fair play. This step is essential for selecting a trustworthy crypto accepting casino.
    • Game Diversity and Quality: Assess the variety and quality of games, ensuring they come from reputable developers like Microgaming or Playtech. A robust game library with slots, table games, and live dealer options enhances the gaming experience. High RTP ratings and provably fair games are critical for player satisfaction.
    • Transaction Efficiency: Test the speed and reliability of deposits and withdrawals, prioritizing platforms with sub-7-minute crypto transactions. Efficient payment systems reduce wait times and enhance convenience. Ensure the casino supports multiple cryptocurrencies for maximum flexibility.
    • Support Excellence: Confirm the availability of 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, or phone for prompt issue resolution. Responsive support is crucial for addressing technical or account-related concerns. Look for platforms offering dedicated responsible gaming assistance.

    Optimizing the Experience

    Players can maximize their crypto casino experience by adopting strategic approaches:

    • Capitalizing on Rewards: Leverage generous welcome bonuses, free spins, and ongoing promotions to maximize value. Carefully review terms to ensure fair wagering requirements and optimize bonus benefits. This approach enhances gameplay without additional costs.
    • Strategic Banking: Choose cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or stablecoins based on transaction speed and cost efficiency. Using stablecoins can minimize volatility risks during deposits and withdrawals. Efficient banking ensures seamless access to funds.
    • Exploring Game Variety: Engage with diverse game offerings, including live dealer games, slots, and provably fair titles, to enrich the gaming experience. Experimenting with different genres keeps gameplay fresh and exciting. This approach allows players to discover new favorites and maximize enjoyment.
    • Responsible Play: Utilize tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options to maintain healthy gaming habits. Regularly monitor spending and playtime to avoid overextension. Responsible gaming practices ensure long-term enjoyment and safety.

    Conclusion: The Crypto Gaming Edge

    All iGaming’s research confirms that the best crypto casinos are transforming the online gambling industry. With lightning-fast transactions, expansive game offerings, advanced security, and innovative features, these platforms consistently outperform traditional casinos. Players seeking superior experiences should prioritize crypto accepting casinos for their unmatched efficiency and engagement.

    As the best Bitcoin casinos continue to push boundaries, they represent the future of online gaming, blending traditional excellence with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled player experiences.

    Important: The information provided is for educational purposes. Casino gaming can be risky and should only be accessed by individuals of legal age. Be sure to gamble responsibly and consult your local laws before engaging in any online casino activity.

    Brand website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Project Name: All iGaming
    Full company Address: Oceanview Street 12, Sunnyville, Atlantis
    Postal Code:7299
    Media Contact:
    Full Name -Max Fraser
    Company website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Email:support@alligaming.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crypto & Bitcoin Casinos Ranked: Reddit Community Shares The Top Crypto Casinos of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  All iGaming, a leading research authority in the digital gaming sector, today released its extensive analysis of the crypto casino market, showcasing how the best crypto casinos are revolutionizing the global gambling landscape. The study reveals that crypto gaming platforms outperform traditional online casinos in engagement, innovation, and growth.

    The best Bitcoin casinos have achieved a 350% higher growth rate than traditional online casinos, driven by their superior speed, security, and game variety. Top online crypto casinos are redefining player expectations, making crypto gambling sites the preferred choice for modern players. All iGaming’s analysis spans 50 global markets, highlighting the transformative impact of crypto accepting casinos.

    >>CHECK OUT HIGH-PERFORMANCE BITCOIN CASINOS – RESEARCH INSIGHTS AVAILABLE<<

    Key Crypto Casino Categories Driving Transformation

    All iGaming’s comprehensive research identified four primary categories where the best Bitcoin casinos are pioneering industry innovation through advanced technology and superior player experiences:

    • Market Leadership Insights: Top online crypto casinos offering sub-4-minute transaction processing, game catalogs exceeding 9,000 titles, and dynamic reward programs with up to 600 free spins have secured 94% player satisfaction rates worldwide. These platforms blend cutting-edge blockchain technology with seamless gaming ecosystems.
    • Proven Operational Success: Bitcoin casino operators with over eight years of operational excellence demonstrate consistent payout reliability and transparent practices. Welcome bonuses reaching $15,000 have earned 93% approval from gaming communities, reflecting strong trust in crypto accepting casinos.
    • Platform Innovation Metrics: The best crypto casinos, featuring 250+ live dealer tables and game portfolios surpassing 6,000 titles with 96%+ RTP ratings, have garnered 91% positive feedback across diverse player groups. Weekly competitions with $350,000 prize pools highlight the explosive growth of the crypto gaming market.
    • Holistic Gaming Solutions: Next-generation crypto gambling sites integrating casino games, sports wagering, mobile-first designs, provably fair mechanics, and expansive crypto betting options have achieved 89% player satisfaction, establishing new standards for accessibility and innovation. Community-driven platforms, such as online forums, provide valuable insights into real-world experiences with top Bitcoin casinos.

    >>IN-DEPTH LOOK AT MARKET-LEADING CRYPTO CASINOS<<

    “Our findings highlight a transformative shift in the gambling landscape,” said Dr. Laura Kim, Chief Analyst at All iGaming. “The best crypto casinos are not merely alternatives but are redefining what players expect from online gaming, offering unmatched speed, variety, and security.”

    Research Approach

    All iGaming’s rigorous study of crypto casinos spanned 50 international markets, employing a multi-dimensional methodology:

    • 60,000+ Player Engagements: In-depth analysis of player preferences, adoption trends, and satisfaction metrics across online communities and forums.
    • 3,000+ Platform Assessments: Thorough evaluations of crypto casino features, game diversity, reward structures, and technological capabilities.
    • 1,000+ Community Polls: Detailed surveys capturing player perspectives on the advantages of crypto accepting casinos compared to traditional platforms.
    • Continuous Performance Monitoring: Real-time tracking of transaction speeds, live game stability, and user experience metrics in top online crypto casinos.

    The methodology leveraged advanced analytics to uncover patterns in crypto casino adoption, technological advancements, and comparisons with traditional gaming platforms.

    Performance Analysis: Crypto Casinos vs. Traditional Casinos

    • Lightning-Fast Transactions

    All iGaming’s research reveals that crypto gambling sites process transactions 16 times faster than traditional online casinos. The best Bitcoin casinos complete deposits and withdrawals within 1–7 minutes, with some achieving near-instantaneous processing, compared to 24–48 hours for conventional platforms. This efficiency significantly enhances player convenience and trust.

    Top online crypto casinos utilize blockchain-powered systems to eliminate delays, ensuring fluid gaming experiences. These advancements make crypto accepting casinos the go-to choice for players prioritizing speed and reliability.

    • Diverse Gaming Portfolios

    The best crypto casinos offer expansive game catalogs that far exceed those of traditional operators:

    • 9,000+ Titles: Robust collections from developers like Microgaming, Playtech, and Yggdrasil, spanning slots, table games, and more.
    • 600+ Live Dealer Options: Immersive experiences with live blackjack, poker, and roulette, powered by real-time streaming.
    • 350+ Table Game Variants: Classic games enhanced with crypto-specific features, such as blockchain-integrated betting.
    • 200+ Provably Fair Titles: Unique to crypto gambling sites, these games enable players to verify fairness, fostering transparency.

    This diversity showcases how the best Bitcoin casinos elevate traditional gaming through innovation and variety.

    >>ADVANCED GAMING FEATURES UNVEILED – MARKET STUDY<<

    Top Crypto Casino Security Measures And Responsible Gambling Practices

    Cutting-Edge Security Measures

    Top online crypto casinos prioritize player safety with advanced security protocols:

    • Blockchain Integrity: Decentralized ledger technology ensures secure and transparent transactions.
    • Multi-Layer Wallets: Enterprise-grade protection for player funds.
    • Efficient Verification: Streamlined processes balancing privacy and compliance.
    • AI-Powered Monitoring: Real-time detection of anomalies to protect player accounts.

    Comprehensive Responsible Gaming Initiatives

    The best crypto casinos lead in responsible gaming with:

    • Spending Limit Tools: Flexible controls for managing gaming budgets.
    • Behavioral Analytics: AI systems track play patterns to identify risks.
    • 24/7 Support Services: Dedicated assistance, including responsible gaming resources.
    • Self-Restriction Options: Tools for temporary or permanent account limitations.

    Payment Innovations in Crypto Casinos

    Versatile Payment Options

    Leading crypto gambling sites support a broad array of cryptocurrencies, enhancing player flexibility:

    • Core Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, and 60+ altcoins.
    • Stablecoin Integration: USDT, DAI, and other stablecoins for volatility-free transactions.
    • Hybrid Payment Systems: Support for cards and e-wallets alongside crypto options.
    • Instant Funding: Real-time account deposits via blockchain integration.

    Streamlined Withdrawal Systems

    The best Bitcoin casinos offer:

    • Sub-7-Minute Withdrawals: Rapid processing for crypto transactions.
    • Customizable Limits: Tailored deposit and withdrawal thresholds.
    • Fee-Free Transactions: Elimination of traditional banking costs.

    >>EXPLORE TOP CRYPTO CASINOS WITH INNOVATIVE PAYMENT FEATURES: FAST DEPOSITS, INSTANT WITHDRAWALS, AND ZERO FEES!<<

    Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

    Rising Player Preference

    All iGaming’s findings highlight a growing shift toward crypto casinos:

    • 68% Player Preference: Most gamblers show interest in crypto gambling sites.
    • 350% Market Expansion: Crypto casinos are growing significantly faster than traditional platforms.
    • Broad Demographics: Adoption spans all age groups and regions.
    • Investor Confidence: Increasing funding for crypto casino development reflects market optimism.

    Technological Innovations

    The future of top online crypto casinos is shaped by:

    • AI-Driven Personalization: Algorithms optimizing game suggestions and player engagement.
    • Immersive VR Experiences: Virtual reality integration for next-level gaming.
    • Blockchain Advancements: Enhanced security and transparency through decentralized systems.
    • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Seamless access across mobile, desktop, and emerging devices.

    Expert Perspectives

    “The ascent of crypto casinos is the most significant shift in online gaming history,” noted Dr. Michael Park, Senior Researcher at All iGaming. “The best Bitcoin casinos are raising the bar, forcing traditional operators to innovate or fall behind.”

    Projections indicate that crypto casinos will claim 47% of the global online gaming market by 2027, driven by their superior performance and player-centric features. Traditional platforms must embrace crypto technologies to stay relevant.

    Selecting the Best Crypto Casinos

    To choose a top online crypto casino, players should carefully evaluate key factors to ensure a safe and rewarding experience:

    • Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the casino holds a valid license from a reputable jurisdiction, such as Malta or Curacao, to ensure adherence to industry standards. Confirming licensing protects players from fraudulent platforms and guarantees fair play. This step is essential for selecting a trustworthy crypto accepting casino.
    • Game Diversity and Quality: Assess the variety and quality of games, ensuring they come from reputable developers like Microgaming or Playtech. A robust game library with slots, table games, and live dealer options enhances the gaming experience. High RTP ratings and provably fair games are critical for player satisfaction.
    • Transaction Efficiency: Test the speed and reliability of deposits and withdrawals, prioritizing platforms with sub-7-minute crypto transactions. Efficient payment systems reduce wait times and enhance convenience. Ensure the casino supports multiple cryptocurrencies for maximum flexibility.
    • Support Excellence: Confirm the availability of 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, or phone for prompt issue resolution. Responsive support is crucial for addressing technical or account-related concerns. Look for platforms offering dedicated responsible gaming assistance.

    Optimizing the Experience

    Players can maximize their crypto casino experience by adopting strategic approaches:

    • Capitalizing on Rewards: Leverage generous welcome bonuses, free spins, and ongoing promotions to maximize value. Carefully review terms to ensure fair wagering requirements and optimize bonus benefits. This approach enhances gameplay without additional costs.
    • Strategic Banking: Choose cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or stablecoins based on transaction speed and cost efficiency. Using stablecoins can minimize volatility risks during deposits and withdrawals. Efficient banking ensures seamless access to funds.
    • Exploring Game Variety: Engage with diverse game offerings, including live dealer games, slots, and provably fair titles, to enrich the gaming experience. Experimenting with different genres keeps gameplay fresh and exciting. This approach allows players to discover new favorites and maximize enjoyment.
    • Responsible Play: Utilize tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options to maintain healthy gaming habits. Regularly monitor spending and playtime to avoid overextension. Responsible gaming practices ensure long-term enjoyment and safety.

    Conclusion: The Crypto Gaming Edge

    All iGaming’s research confirms that the best crypto casinos are transforming the online gambling industry. With lightning-fast transactions, expansive game offerings, advanced security, and innovative features, these platforms consistently outperform traditional casinos. Players seeking superior experiences should prioritize crypto accepting casinos for their unmatched efficiency and engagement.

    As the best Bitcoin casinos continue to push boundaries, they represent the future of online gaming, blending traditional excellence with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled player experiences.

    Important: The information provided is for educational purposes. Casino gaming can be risky and should only be accessed by individuals of legal age. Be sure to gamble responsibly and consult your local laws before engaging in any online casino activity.

    Brand website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Project Name: All iGaming
    Full company Address: Oceanview Street 12, Sunnyville, Atlantis
    Postal Code:7299
    Media Contact:
    Full Name -Max Fraser
    Company website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Email:support@alligaming.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crypto & Bitcoin Casinos Ranked: Reddit Community Shares The Top Crypto Casinos of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  All iGaming, a leading research authority in the digital gaming sector, today released its extensive analysis of the crypto casino market, showcasing how the best crypto casinos are revolutionizing the global gambling landscape. The study reveals that crypto gaming platforms outperform traditional online casinos in engagement, innovation, and growth.

    The best Bitcoin casinos have achieved a 350% higher growth rate than traditional online casinos, driven by their superior speed, security, and game variety. Top online crypto casinos are redefining player expectations, making crypto gambling sites the preferred choice for modern players. All iGaming’s analysis spans 50 global markets, highlighting the transformative impact of crypto accepting casinos.

    >>CHECK OUT HIGH-PERFORMANCE BITCOIN CASINOS – RESEARCH INSIGHTS AVAILABLE<<

    Key Crypto Casino Categories Driving Transformation

    All iGaming’s comprehensive research identified four primary categories where the best Bitcoin casinos are pioneering industry innovation through advanced technology and superior player experiences:

    • Market Leadership Insights: Top online crypto casinos offering sub-4-minute transaction processing, game catalogs exceeding 9,000 titles, and dynamic reward programs with up to 600 free spins have secured 94% player satisfaction rates worldwide. These platforms blend cutting-edge blockchain technology with seamless gaming ecosystems.
    • Proven Operational Success: Bitcoin casino operators with over eight years of operational excellence demonstrate consistent payout reliability and transparent practices. Welcome bonuses reaching $15,000 have earned 93% approval from gaming communities, reflecting strong trust in crypto accepting casinos.
    • Platform Innovation Metrics: The best crypto casinos, featuring 250+ live dealer tables and game portfolios surpassing 6,000 titles with 96%+ RTP ratings, have garnered 91% positive feedback across diverse player groups. Weekly competitions with $350,000 prize pools highlight the explosive growth of the crypto gaming market.
    • Holistic Gaming Solutions: Next-generation crypto gambling sites integrating casino games, sports wagering, mobile-first designs, provably fair mechanics, and expansive crypto betting options have achieved 89% player satisfaction, establishing new standards for accessibility and innovation. Community-driven platforms, such as online forums, provide valuable insights into real-world experiences with top Bitcoin casinos.

    >>IN-DEPTH LOOK AT MARKET-LEADING CRYPTO CASINOS<<

    “Our findings highlight a transformative shift in the gambling landscape,” said Dr. Laura Kim, Chief Analyst at All iGaming. “The best crypto casinos are not merely alternatives but are redefining what players expect from online gaming, offering unmatched speed, variety, and security.”

    Research Approach

    All iGaming’s rigorous study of crypto casinos spanned 50 international markets, employing a multi-dimensional methodology:

    • 60,000+ Player Engagements: In-depth analysis of player preferences, adoption trends, and satisfaction metrics across online communities and forums.
    • 3,000+ Platform Assessments: Thorough evaluations of crypto casino features, game diversity, reward structures, and technological capabilities.
    • 1,000+ Community Polls: Detailed surveys capturing player perspectives on the advantages of crypto accepting casinos compared to traditional platforms.
    • Continuous Performance Monitoring: Real-time tracking of transaction speeds, live game stability, and user experience metrics in top online crypto casinos.

    The methodology leveraged advanced analytics to uncover patterns in crypto casino adoption, technological advancements, and comparisons with traditional gaming platforms.

    Performance Analysis: Crypto Casinos vs. Traditional Casinos

    • Lightning-Fast Transactions

    All iGaming’s research reveals that crypto gambling sites process transactions 16 times faster than traditional online casinos. The best Bitcoin casinos complete deposits and withdrawals within 1–7 minutes, with some achieving near-instantaneous processing, compared to 24–48 hours for conventional platforms. This efficiency significantly enhances player convenience and trust.

    Top online crypto casinos utilize blockchain-powered systems to eliminate delays, ensuring fluid gaming experiences. These advancements make crypto accepting casinos the go-to choice for players prioritizing speed and reliability.

    • Diverse Gaming Portfolios

    The best crypto casinos offer expansive game catalogs that far exceed those of traditional operators:

    • 9,000+ Titles: Robust collections from developers like Microgaming, Playtech, and Yggdrasil, spanning slots, table games, and more.
    • 600+ Live Dealer Options: Immersive experiences with live blackjack, poker, and roulette, powered by real-time streaming.
    • 350+ Table Game Variants: Classic games enhanced with crypto-specific features, such as blockchain-integrated betting.
    • 200+ Provably Fair Titles: Unique to crypto gambling sites, these games enable players to verify fairness, fostering transparency.

    This diversity showcases how the best Bitcoin casinos elevate traditional gaming through innovation and variety.

    >>ADVANCED GAMING FEATURES UNVEILED – MARKET STUDY<<

    Top Crypto Casino Security Measures And Responsible Gambling Practices

    Cutting-Edge Security Measures

    Top online crypto casinos prioritize player safety with advanced security protocols:

    • Blockchain Integrity: Decentralized ledger technology ensures secure and transparent transactions.
    • Multi-Layer Wallets: Enterprise-grade protection for player funds.
    • Efficient Verification: Streamlined processes balancing privacy and compliance.
    • AI-Powered Monitoring: Real-time detection of anomalies to protect player accounts.

    Comprehensive Responsible Gaming Initiatives

    The best crypto casinos lead in responsible gaming with:

    • Spending Limit Tools: Flexible controls for managing gaming budgets.
    • Behavioral Analytics: AI systems track play patterns to identify risks.
    • 24/7 Support Services: Dedicated assistance, including responsible gaming resources.
    • Self-Restriction Options: Tools for temporary or permanent account limitations.

    Payment Innovations in Crypto Casinos

    Versatile Payment Options

    Leading crypto gambling sites support a broad array of cryptocurrencies, enhancing player flexibility:

    • Core Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, and 60+ altcoins.
    • Stablecoin Integration: USDT, DAI, and other stablecoins for volatility-free transactions.
    • Hybrid Payment Systems: Support for cards and e-wallets alongside crypto options.
    • Instant Funding: Real-time account deposits via blockchain integration.

    Streamlined Withdrawal Systems

    The best Bitcoin casinos offer:

    • Sub-7-Minute Withdrawals: Rapid processing for crypto transactions.
    • Customizable Limits: Tailored deposit and withdrawal thresholds.
    • Fee-Free Transactions: Elimination of traditional banking costs.

    >>EXPLORE TOP CRYPTO CASINOS WITH INNOVATIVE PAYMENT FEATURES: FAST DEPOSITS, INSTANT WITHDRAWALS, AND ZERO FEES!<<

    Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

    Rising Player Preference

    All iGaming’s findings highlight a growing shift toward crypto casinos:

    • 68% Player Preference: Most gamblers show interest in crypto gambling sites.
    • 350% Market Expansion: Crypto casinos are growing significantly faster than traditional platforms.
    • Broad Demographics: Adoption spans all age groups and regions.
    • Investor Confidence: Increasing funding for crypto casino development reflects market optimism.

    Technological Innovations

    The future of top online crypto casinos is shaped by:

    • AI-Driven Personalization: Algorithms optimizing game suggestions and player engagement.
    • Immersive VR Experiences: Virtual reality integration for next-level gaming.
    • Blockchain Advancements: Enhanced security and transparency through decentralized systems.
    • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Seamless access across mobile, desktop, and emerging devices.

    Expert Perspectives

    “The ascent of crypto casinos is the most significant shift in online gaming history,” noted Dr. Michael Park, Senior Researcher at All iGaming. “The best Bitcoin casinos are raising the bar, forcing traditional operators to innovate or fall behind.”

    Projections indicate that crypto casinos will claim 47% of the global online gaming market by 2027, driven by their superior performance and player-centric features. Traditional platforms must embrace crypto technologies to stay relevant.

    Selecting the Best Crypto Casinos

    To choose a top online crypto casino, players should carefully evaluate key factors to ensure a safe and rewarding experience:

    • Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the casino holds a valid license from a reputable jurisdiction, such as Malta or Curacao, to ensure adherence to industry standards. Confirming licensing protects players from fraudulent platforms and guarantees fair play. This step is essential for selecting a trustworthy crypto accepting casino.
    • Game Diversity and Quality: Assess the variety and quality of games, ensuring they come from reputable developers like Microgaming or Playtech. A robust game library with slots, table games, and live dealer options enhances the gaming experience. High RTP ratings and provably fair games are critical for player satisfaction.
    • Transaction Efficiency: Test the speed and reliability of deposits and withdrawals, prioritizing platforms with sub-7-minute crypto transactions. Efficient payment systems reduce wait times and enhance convenience. Ensure the casino supports multiple cryptocurrencies for maximum flexibility.
    • Support Excellence: Confirm the availability of 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, or phone for prompt issue resolution. Responsive support is crucial for addressing technical or account-related concerns. Look for platforms offering dedicated responsible gaming assistance.

    Optimizing the Experience

    Players can maximize their crypto casino experience by adopting strategic approaches:

    • Capitalizing on Rewards: Leverage generous welcome bonuses, free spins, and ongoing promotions to maximize value. Carefully review terms to ensure fair wagering requirements and optimize bonus benefits. This approach enhances gameplay without additional costs.
    • Strategic Banking: Choose cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or stablecoins based on transaction speed and cost efficiency. Using stablecoins can minimize volatility risks during deposits and withdrawals. Efficient banking ensures seamless access to funds.
    • Exploring Game Variety: Engage with diverse game offerings, including live dealer games, slots, and provably fair titles, to enrich the gaming experience. Experimenting with different genres keeps gameplay fresh and exciting. This approach allows players to discover new favorites and maximize enjoyment.
    • Responsible Play: Utilize tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options to maintain healthy gaming habits. Regularly monitor spending and playtime to avoid overextension. Responsible gaming practices ensure long-term enjoyment and safety.

    Conclusion: The Crypto Gaming Edge

    All iGaming’s research confirms that the best crypto casinos are transforming the online gambling industry. With lightning-fast transactions, expansive game offerings, advanced security, and innovative features, these platforms consistently outperform traditional casinos. Players seeking superior experiences should prioritize crypto accepting casinos for their unmatched efficiency and engagement.

    As the best Bitcoin casinos continue to push boundaries, they represent the future of online gaming, blending traditional excellence with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled player experiences.

    Important: The information provided is for educational purposes. Casino gaming can be risky and should only be accessed by individuals of legal age. Be sure to gamble responsibly and consult your local laws before engaging in any online casino activity.

    Brand website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Project Name: All iGaming
    Full company Address: Oceanview Street 12, Sunnyville, Atlantis
    Postal Code:7299
    Media Contact:
    Full Name -Max Fraser
    Company website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Email:support@alligaming.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Crypto & Bitcoin Casinos Ranked: Reddit Community Shares The Top Crypto Casinos of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  All iGaming, a leading research authority in the digital gaming sector, today released its extensive analysis of the crypto casino market, showcasing how the best crypto casinos are revolutionizing the global gambling landscape. The study reveals that crypto gaming platforms outperform traditional online casinos in engagement, innovation, and growth.

    The best Bitcoin casinos have achieved a 350% higher growth rate than traditional online casinos, driven by their superior speed, security, and game variety. Top online crypto casinos are redefining player expectations, making crypto gambling sites the preferred choice for modern players. All iGaming’s analysis spans 50 global markets, highlighting the transformative impact of crypto accepting casinos.

    >>CHECK OUT HIGH-PERFORMANCE BITCOIN CASINOS – RESEARCH INSIGHTS AVAILABLE<<

    Key Crypto Casino Categories Driving Transformation

    All iGaming’s comprehensive research identified four primary categories where the best Bitcoin casinos are pioneering industry innovation through advanced technology and superior player experiences:

    • Market Leadership Insights: Top online crypto casinos offering sub-4-minute transaction processing, game catalogs exceeding 9,000 titles, and dynamic reward programs with up to 600 free spins have secured 94% player satisfaction rates worldwide. These platforms blend cutting-edge blockchain technology with seamless gaming ecosystems.
    • Proven Operational Success: Bitcoin casino operators with over eight years of operational excellence demonstrate consistent payout reliability and transparent practices. Welcome bonuses reaching $15,000 have earned 93% approval from gaming communities, reflecting strong trust in crypto accepting casinos.
    • Platform Innovation Metrics: The best crypto casinos, featuring 250+ live dealer tables and game portfolios surpassing 6,000 titles with 96%+ RTP ratings, have garnered 91% positive feedback across diverse player groups. Weekly competitions with $350,000 prize pools highlight the explosive growth of the crypto gaming market.
    • Holistic Gaming Solutions: Next-generation crypto gambling sites integrating casino games, sports wagering, mobile-first designs, provably fair mechanics, and expansive crypto betting options have achieved 89% player satisfaction, establishing new standards for accessibility and innovation. Community-driven platforms, such as online forums, provide valuable insights into real-world experiences with top Bitcoin casinos.

    >>IN-DEPTH LOOK AT MARKET-LEADING CRYPTO CASINOS<<

    “Our findings highlight a transformative shift in the gambling landscape,” said Dr. Laura Kim, Chief Analyst at All iGaming. “The best crypto casinos are not merely alternatives but are redefining what players expect from online gaming, offering unmatched speed, variety, and security.”

    Research Approach

    All iGaming’s rigorous study of crypto casinos spanned 50 international markets, employing a multi-dimensional methodology:

    • 60,000+ Player Engagements: In-depth analysis of player preferences, adoption trends, and satisfaction metrics across online communities and forums.
    • 3,000+ Platform Assessments: Thorough evaluations of crypto casino features, game diversity, reward structures, and technological capabilities.
    • 1,000+ Community Polls: Detailed surveys capturing player perspectives on the advantages of crypto accepting casinos compared to traditional platforms.
    • Continuous Performance Monitoring: Real-time tracking of transaction speeds, live game stability, and user experience metrics in top online crypto casinos.

    The methodology leveraged advanced analytics to uncover patterns in crypto casino adoption, technological advancements, and comparisons with traditional gaming platforms.

    Performance Analysis: Crypto Casinos vs. Traditional Casinos

    • Lightning-Fast Transactions

    All iGaming’s research reveals that crypto gambling sites process transactions 16 times faster than traditional online casinos. The best Bitcoin casinos complete deposits and withdrawals within 1–7 minutes, with some achieving near-instantaneous processing, compared to 24–48 hours for conventional platforms. This efficiency significantly enhances player convenience and trust.

    Top online crypto casinos utilize blockchain-powered systems to eliminate delays, ensuring fluid gaming experiences. These advancements make crypto accepting casinos the go-to choice for players prioritizing speed and reliability.

    • Diverse Gaming Portfolios

    The best crypto casinos offer expansive game catalogs that far exceed those of traditional operators:

    • 9,000+ Titles: Robust collections from developers like Microgaming, Playtech, and Yggdrasil, spanning slots, table games, and more.
    • 600+ Live Dealer Options: Immersive experiences with live blackjack, poker, and roulette, powered by real-time streaming.
    • 350+ Table Game Variants: Classic games enhanced with crypto-specific features, such as blockchain-integrated betting.
    • 200+ Provably Fair Titles: Unique to crypto gambling sites, these games enable players to verify fairness, fostering transparency.

    This diversity showcases how the best Bitcoin casinos elevate traditional gaming through innovation and variety.

    >>ADVANCED GAMING FEATURES UNVEILED – MARKET STUDY<<

    Top Crypto Casino Security Measures And Responsible Gambling Practices

    Cutting-Edge Security Measures

    Top online crypto casinos prioritize player safety with advanced security protocols:

    • Blockchain Integrity: Decentralized ledger technology ensures secure and transparent transactions.
    • Multi-Layer Wallets: Enterprise-grade protection for player funds.
    • Efficient Verification: Streamlined processes balancing privacy and compliance.
    • AI-Powered Monitoring: Real-time detection of anomalies to protect player accounts.

    Comprehensive Responsible Gaming Initiatives

    The best crypto casinos lead in responsible gaming with:

    • Spending Limit Tools: Flexible controls for managing gaming budgets.
    • Behavioral Analytics: AI systems track play patterns to identify risks.
    • 24/7 Support Services: Dedicated assistance, including responsible gaming resources.
    • Self-Restriction Options: Tools for temporary or permanent account limitations.

    Payment Innovations in Crypto Casinos

    Versatile Payment Options

    Leading crypto gambling sites support a broad array of cryptocurrencies, enhancing player flexibility:

    • Core Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, and 60+ altcoins.
    • Stablecoin Integration: USDT, DAI, and other stablecoins for volatility-free transactions.
    • Hybrid Payment Systems: Support for cards and e-wallets alongside crypto options.
    • Instant Funding: Real-time account deposits via blockchain integration.

    Streamlined Withdrawal Systems

    The best Bitcoin casinos offer:

    • Sub-7-Minute Withdrawals: Rapid processing for crypto transactions.
    • Customizable Limits: Tailored deposit and withdrawal thresholds.
    • Fee-Free Transactions: Elimination of traditional banking costs.

    >>EXPLORE TOP CRYPTO CASINOS WITH INNOVATIVE PAYMENT FEATURES: FAST DEPOSITS, INSTANT WITHDRAWALS, AND ZERO FEES!<<

    Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

    Rising Player Preference

    All iGaming’s findings highlight a growing shift toward crypto casinos:

    • 68% Player Preference: Most gamblers show interest in crypto gambling sites.
    • 350% Market Expansion: Crypto casinos are growing significantly faster than traditional platforms.
    • Broad Demographics: Adoption spans all age groups and regions.
    • Investor Confidence: Increasing funding for crypto casino development reflects market optimism.

    Technological Innovations

    The future of top online crypto casinos is shaped by:

    • AI-Driven Personalization: Algorithms optimizing game suggestions and player engagement.
    • Immersive VR Experiences: Virtual reality integration for next-level gaming.
    • Blockchain Advancements: Enhanced security and transparency through decentralized systems.
    • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Seamless access across mobile, desktop, and emerging devices.

    Expert Perspectives

    “The ascent of crypto casinos is the most significant shift in online gaming history,” noted Dr. Michael Park, Senior Researcher at All iGaming. “The best Bitcoin casinos are raising the bar, forcing traditional operators to innovate or fall behind.”

    Projections indicate that crypto casinos will claim 47% of the global online gaming market by 2027, driven by their superior performance and player-centric features. Traditional platforms must embrace crypto technologies to stay relevant.

    Selecting the Best Crypto Casinos

    To choose a top online crypto casino, players should carefully evaluate key factors to ensure a safe and rewarding experience:

    • Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the casino holds a valid license from a reputable jurisdiction, such as Malta or Curacao, to ensure adherence to industry standards. Confirming licensing protects players from fraudulent platforms and guarantees fair play. This step is essential for selecting a trustworthy crypto accepting casino.
    • Game Diversity and Quality: Assess the variety and quality of games, ensuring they come from reputable developers like Microgaming or Playtech. A robust game library with slots, table games, and live dealer options enhances the gaming experience. High RTP ratings and provably fair games are critical for player satisfaction.
    • Transaction Efficiency: Test the speed and reliability of deposits and withdrawals, prioritizing platforms with sub-7-minute crypto transactions. Efficient payment systems reduce wait times and enhance convenience. Ensure the casino supports multiple cryptocurrencies for maximum flexibility.
    • Support Excellence: Confirm the availability of 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, or phone for prompt issue resolution. Responsive support is crucial for addressing technical or account-related concerns. Look for platforms offering dedicated responsible gaming assistance.

    Optimizing the Experience

    Players can maximize their crypto casino experience by adopting strategic approaches:

    • Capitalizing on Rewards: Leverage generous welcome bonuses, free spins, and ongoing promotions to maximize value. Carefully review terms to ensure fair wagering requirements and optimize bonus benefits. This approach enhances gameplay without additional costs.
    • Strategic Banking: Choose cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or stablecoins based on transaction speed and cost efficiency. Using stablecoins can minimize volatility risks during deposits and withdrawals. Efficient banking ensures seamless access to funds.
    • Exploring Game Variety: Engage with diverse game offerings, including live dealer games, slots, and provably fair titles, to enrich the gaming experience. Experimenting with different genres keeps gameplay fresh and exciting. This approach allows players to discover new favorites and maximize enjoyment.
    • Responsible Play: Utilize tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options to maintain healthy gaming habits. Regularly monitor spending and playtime to avoid overextension. Responsible gaming practices ensure long-term enjoyment and safety.

    Conclusion: The Crypto Gaming Edge

    All iGaming’s research confirms that the best crypto casinos are transforming the online gambling industry. With lightning-fast transactions, expansive game offerings, advanced security, and innovative features, these platforms consistently outperform traditional casinos. Players seeking superior experiences should prioritize crypto accepting casinos for their unmatched efficiency and engagement.

    As the best Bitcoin casinos continue to push boundaries, they represent the future of online gaming, blending traditional excellence with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled player experiences.

    Important: The information provided is for educational purposes. Casino gaming can be risky and should only be accessed by individuals of legal age. Be sure to gamble responsibly and consult your local laws before engaging in any online casino activity.

    Brand website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Project Name: All iGaming
    Full company Address: Oceanview Street 12, Sunnyville, Atlantis
    Postal Code:7299
    Media Contact:
    Full Name -Max Fraser
    Company website:https://all-igaming.com/
    Email:support@alligaming.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Working Group announces Small Business Champions, discusses digitalization and MC14 plan

    Source: World Trade Organization

    Small Business Champions

    The winners of the 2025 Small Business Champions Competition are Silaiwali (India), a company which empowers women artisans by upcycling waste fabric from garment factories into handcrafted products, and NetZero Pallets (Viet Nam), which specializes in converting biomass into carbon-neutral shipping pallet materials.

    The fifth edition of the competition was held under the theme “Completing the Loop: Helping Small Businesses Contribute to the Circular Economy.” It was jointly organized by the Informal Working Group on MSMEs, the International Trade Centre (ITC), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and in partnership with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for the first time.

    At the award ceremony, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala congratulated the winners and reiterated the vital role of MSMEs in global value chains and supply chains. She emphasized that small businesses are a bedrock of innovation and agility, and that the Small Business Champions Award reflects their invaluable contributions to sustainable development. She also stressed the importance of supporting MSMEs in times of uncertainty, as they often face significant trade barriers, particularly in accessing knowledge and finance. “They’re the ones that need the stability and predictability of the world trading system the most. We cannot do without their voice,” she said.

    ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton and ICC Secretary General John Denton also delivered opening remarks. Deputy Secretary-General of UNCTAD, Pedro Manuel Moreno, addressed the ceremony via video message. All three speakers reaffirmed their organizations’ commitment to fostering a supportive business ecosystem where MSMEs can thrive and actively contribute to the circular economy.

    The award ceremony can be watched here.

    Digitalization, other thematic issues

    Lively discussions focused on capacity building for MSMEs through digital transformation, with members and international organizations sharing experiences in helping small businesses reduce costs and improve efficiency.

    The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) introduced its Cross-Border Paperless Trade Database, developed with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), as a hub offering innovative resources and legal support. China presented its single-window customs platform designed to simplify cross-border procedures for MSMEs. The International Trade Centre (ITC) provided an update on its digital trade policy and regulatory work. It also outlined its work on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) through the “One Trade Africa” project, which supports African MSMEs in participating in trade. Georgia proposed a peer-learning session to explore how to scale up digital solutions and streamline regulations.

    Building on previous thematic sessions, members also discussed good regulatory practices (GRPs) and the informal sector. They emphasized the importance of ensuring interoperability between regulatory frameworks to facilitate MSME trade. Participants expressed support for continued dialogue on informal MSMEs and recommended monitoring relevant developments in other international forums.

    MC14 strategies, implementation of 2020 MSME Package

    Following discussions at the March meeting, the Coordinator, Ambassador Matthew Wilson of Barbados, proposed tentative outcomes and issues to be developed in the lead-up to MC14. Group members agreed to focus on a primary deliverable: a joint study report by the World Customs Organization, ICC and the WTO on the integration of MSMEs into Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programmes (INF/MSME/W/62/Rev.2), as adopted by the Group in March.

    Additional outcomes will include the Coordinator’s reports summarizing the Group’s work between MC13 and MC14, a summary of exemplary small enterprises and a review of key findings from the thematic discussions.

    The MSME Group Coordinator announced new funding from the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the Organization for Trade Development and Standards Cooperation (ODCCN) for the Trade4MSMEs website to ensure its operation for the next six years. This contribution has already enabled the translation of the website into Mandarin, thereby enhancing its accessibility to a broader international audience.

    In addition, members agreed to continue deliberating on a possible policy guidance document (a compendium) for good regulatory practices (GRPs). Further discussion is also planned on how to advance joint work with the Trade and Gender Initiative, particularly in improving access to finance for women-led MSMEs.

    The Group also reviewed progress in implementing its December 2020 MSME Package — a set of policy recommendations aimed at supporting MSMEs. Several members, along with the WTO Secretariat, provided updates on their respective actions in support of the package’s implementation.

    Strengthening engagement with private sector

    A special session open to the business community took place on 25 June. Small traders were invited to share their views on the impact of recent trade tensions on their businesses, their engagement in good regulatory practices, and other challenges they face.

    The Coordinator reflected on key takeaways from the constructive discussion. Businesses described a challenging landscape created by economic uncertainty and ongoing trade tensions, including regarding tariffs. They also noted benefits from newly implemented efficiencies and other significant challenges, especially in relation to planning and day-to-day operations.

    While good regulatory practice (GRP) initiatives exist, MSMEs reported that they are often not adequately informed or consulted. They also noted that GRPs tend to be fragmented and country-specific, lacking global harmonization. Small businesses further highlighted limited access to tariff and trade regulation information, lack of clarity regarding customs regulations, and high shipping costs as major trade obstacles. They called for easier access to tariff information and greater support from national authorities.

    Members welcomed the discussion and proposed further discussions on how to incorporate feedback from the business community into the Group’s future agenda.

    Next

    The next meeting of the Informal Working Group on MSMEs is scheduled for 3 October 2025.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Agriculture negotiations Chair reports on prospects for progress ahead of MC14

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Agriculture negotiations Chair reports on prospects for progress ahead of MC14

    Ambassador Hussain told members he had held consultations on market access, domestic support and export restrictions on food as well as on food procurement at administered prices for developing economies’ public stockholding (PSH) programmes, and the proposed new Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM), which would allow developing economies to raise duties temporarily in the event of a sudden surge in import volumes or price depression.
    The Chair reported that since the last meeting on 30 April, he had held 14 meetings where he explored with members several potential MC14 outcomes. These included: agreement on a framework for continued negotiations on outstanding topics; a political declaration reaffirming the value of existing disciplines and committing  to continue negotiations beyond MC14; recognition of progress made so far; and an agreement delivering early results for vulnerable WTO members facing food insecurity. These approaches could complement one another.
    “Overall, I was encouraged by the constructive tone and positive engagement throughout the consultations,” Ambassador Hussain said.
    He told the meeting that, despite the prevailing geopolitical tensions and challenges, there was broad support for advancing substantive work across all pillars. During his consultations, many members had underscored the importance of securing at least some concrete and meaningful outcomes as part of the MC14 package, he said.
    The Chair also noted that several delegations had emphasized the need to focus on realistic yet meaningful deliverables, and had cautioned that outcomes perceived as overly modest could risk further eroding confidence in the multilateral trading system.
    The Chair will continue his consultations on the various topics in different configurations, with the next consultation scheduled for 30 June with the cotton quad plus members, namely the C4+ cotton-producing countries (Benin, Chad, Burkina Faso, Mali and Côte d’Ivoire) and other key players in the negotiations related to the trade-related aspects of cotton.
    During the meeting, proponents of easing agricultural market access stressed the importance of  reducing and simplifying tariffs and other trade barriers in order to support economic development, food security and environmental sustainability. 
    Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay told participants that their November 2023 proposal JOB/AG/255 remains a substantive contribution to the talks, and that an MC14 outcome lacking progress on market access would be insufficient.
    Many members stressed that enhancing food security must remain a central objective in the negotiations. Some members also identified strengthening rural livelihoods and development — as well as promoting sustainable agriculture — as key priorities. Several members also reaffirmed the importance of a well-functioning multilateral rules-based trading system, emphasizing that it is essential for ensuring predictability and reducing costly uncertainty.
    The Cairns Group of agricultural exporting countries and the African Group updated participants on their continued consultations. which have mainly focused so far on domestic support to the farm sector. The consultations were being held in a constructive spirit, they said. The Cairns Group proposal  JOB/AG/243 and the African Group proposal JOB/AG/242 were serving as a basis for dialogue.
    Some members told the meeting that it was critical to also address the issue of export restrictions on food as part of the negotiations to enhance food security. These members also noted that elements from their previous submissions remained relevant for ongoing discussions. Other ideas for further work were also mentioned, such as looking to facilitate trade in agricultural products including by looking at cross-cutting issues, such as agriculture-related supporting services.
    Ambassador Hussain noted that several members prefer to continue engaging with one another informally before widening discussions to the membership as a whole. These members also recognized that broader participation would soon be necessary.
    Several delegations called for more technical, data-informed discussions, including expert-led side events, to advance dialogue on complex, cross-cutting issues.
    Members had also acknowledged that it was too early to define the contours of a potential outcome for MC14, the Chair said. Their general view was that process and substance must continue to evolve in tandem to keep options open and ambition credible. He added that, overall, members had advocated for a balanced approach to negotiations, emphasizing the need for a spirit of engagement and transparency and the importance of avoiding maximalist positions.
    Ambassador Hussain told the meeting he will continue to facilitate focused discussions. He will encourage members to explore innovative approaches, collaborate effectively, and report their progress to the full membership. Delegations could usefully share written contributions which could be adopted at MC14, he said.
    Public food stockholding and Special Safeguard Mechanism
    Members held dedicated sessions on the procurement of food at administered prices for public stocks in developing economies and on the proposed Special Safeguard Mechanism  to facilitate more focused discussions on both topics. The Chair reported on his recent consultations on public food stockholding and noted that open and frank exchanges remain essential to making meaningful progress on this key issue.
    “I continue to believe that progress is possible if we focus on bridging differences through constructive and solution-oriented dialogues,” he said. He also told participants that he plans to pursue consultations in various configurations over the coming weeks to explore pragmatic and effective ways forward.
    During the meeting, developing economies that call for fast-tracking action in this area highlighted the importance of revisiting WTO rules in order to address food insecurity and called for text-based negotiations. Some other members called for technical sessions to enhance understanding of the technical aspects of the issue as well as the proposal on the table. Some noted that they were open to discussing the food security challenges faced by developing economies.
    On the Special Safeguard Mechanism, while developing economy proponents of the safeguard continue to consider it ought to be adopted as a stand-alone tool, agricultural exporting economies argue it should be addressed in parallel with talks on reducing barriers to the export of agricultural goods.
    Ambassador Hussain reported that, during his consultations, proponents of this issue made suggestions on how to break the current impasse and move the discussions forward. These included holding thematic sessions and targeted group discussions on specific technical issues and pursuing an interim price-based safeguard mechanism.
    The Chair urged members to continue exploring ways that could help to bridge differences and result in substantive progress.
    “We need to work towards identifying a practical way forward that could facilitate a meaningful conversation on various technical elements of an SSM,” he said.
    Next meeting
    The next meeting, followed by the dedicated sessions on public food stockholding and the Special Safeguard Mechanism, is tentatively scheduled for 9-10 July.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Agriculture negotiations Chair reports on prospects for progress ahead of MC14

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Agriculture negotiations Chair reports on prospects for progress ahead of MC14

    Ambassador Hussain told members he had held consultations on market access, domestic support and export restrictions on food as well as on food procurement at administered prices for developing economies’ public stockholding (PSH) programmes, and the proposed new Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM), which would allow developing economies to raise duties temporarily in the event of a sudden surge in import volumes or price depression.
    The Chair reported that since the last meeting on 30 April, he had held 14 meetings where he explored with members several potential MC14 outcomes. These included: agreement on a framework for continued negotiations on outstanding topics; a political declaration reaffirming the value of existing disciplines and committing  to continue negotiations beyond MC14; recognition of progress made so far; and an agreement delivering early results for vulnerable WTO members facing food insecurity. These approaches could complement one another.
    “Overall, I was encouraged by the constructive tone and positive engagement throughout the consultations,” Ambassador Hussain said.
    He told the meeting that, despite the prevailing geopolitical tensions and challenges, there was broad support for advancing substantive work across all pillars. During his consultations, many members had underscored the importance of securing at least some concrete and meaningful outcomes as part of the MC14 package, he said.
    The Chair also noted that several delegations had emphasized the need to focus on realistic yet meaningful deliverables, and had cautioned that outcomes perceived as overly modest could risk further eroding confidence in the multilateral trading system.
    The Chair will continue his consultations on the various topics in different configurations, with the next consultation scheduled for 30 June with the cotton quad plus members, namely the C4+ cotton-producing countries (Benin, Chad, Burkina Faso, Mali and Côte d’Ivoire) and other key players in the negotiations related to the trade-related aspects of cotton.
    During the meeting, proponents of easing agricultural market access stressed the importance of  reducing and simplifying tariffs and other trade barriers in order to support economic development, food security and environmental sustainability. 
    Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay told participants that their November 2023 proposal JOB/AG/255 remains a substantive contribution to the talks, and that an MC14 outcome lacking progress on market access would be insufficient.
    Many members stressed that enhancing food security must remain a central objective in the negotiations. Some members also identified strengthening rural livelihoods and development — as well as promoting sustainable agriculture — as key priorities. Several members also reaffirmed the importance of a well-functioning multilateral rules-based trading system, emphasizing that it is essential for ensuring predictability and reducing costly uncertainty.
    The Cairns Group of agricultural exporting countries and the African Group updated participants on their continued consultations. which have mainly focused so far on domestic support to the farm sector. The consultations were being held in a constructive spirit, they said. The Cairns Group proposal  JOB/AG/243 and the African Group proposal JOB/AG/242 were serving as a basis for dialogue.
    Some members told the meeting that it was critical to also address the issue of export restrictions on food as part of the negotiations to enhance food security. These members also noted that elements from their previous submissions remained relevant for ongoing discussions. Other ideas for further work were also mentioned, such as looking to facilitate trade in agricultural products including by looking at cross-cutting issues, such as agriculture-related supporting services.
    Ambassador Hussain noted that several members prefer to continue engaging with one another informally before widening discussions to the membership as a whole. These members also recognized that broader participation would soon be necessary.
    Several delegations called for more technical, data-informed discussions, including expert-led side events, to advance dialogue on complex, cross-cutting issues.
    Members had also acknowledged that it was too early to define the contours of a potential outcome for MC14, the Chair said. Their general view was that process and substance must continue to evolve in tandem to keep options open and ambition credible. He added that, overall, members had advocated for a balanced approach to negotiations, emphasizing the need for a spirit of engagement and transparency and the importance of avoiding maximalist positions.
    Ambassador Hussain told the meeting he will continue to facilitate focused discussions. He will encourage members to explore innovative approaches, collaborate effectively, and report their progress to the full membership. Delegations could usefully share written contributions which could be adopted at MC14, he said.
    Public food stockholding and Special Safeguard Mechanism
    Members held dedicated sessions on the procurement of food at administered prices for public stocks in developing economies and on the proposed Special Safeguard Mechanism  to facilitate more focused discussions on both topics. The Chair reported on his recent consultations on public food stockholding and noted that open and frank exchanges remain essential to making meaningful progress on this key issue.
    “I continue to believe that progress is possible if we focus on bridging differences through constructive and solution-oriented dialogues,” he said. He also told participants that he plans to pursue consultations in various configurations over the coming weeks to explore pragmatic and effective ways forward.
    During the meeting, developing economies that call for fast-tracking action in this area highlighted the importance of revisiting WTO rules in order to address food insecurity and called for text-based negotiations. Some other members called for technical sessions to enhance understanding of the technical aspects of the issue as well as the proposal on the table. Some noted that they were open to discussing the food security challenges faced by developing economies.
    On the Special Safeguard Mechanism, while developing economy proponents of the safeguard continue to consider it ought to be adopted as a stand-alone tool, agricultural exporting economies argue it should be addressed in parallel with talks on reducing barriers to the export of agricultural goods.
    Ambassador Hussain reported that, during his consultations, proponents of this issue made suggestions on how to break the current impasse and move the discussions forward. These included holding thematic sessions and targeted group discussions on specific technical issues and pursuing an interim price-based safeguard mechanism.
    The Chair urged members to continue exploring ways that could help to bridge differences and result in substantive progress.
    “We need to work towards identifying a practical way forward that could facilitate a meaningful conversation on various technical elements of an SSM,” he said.
    Next meeting
    The next meeting, followed by the dedicated sessions on public food stockholding and the Special Safeguard Mechanism, is tentatively scheduled for 9-10 July.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes the Fifth Review Under the Stand-By Arrangement with Armenia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 27, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board completed the fifth review under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with Armenia, providing the country with access equivalent to SDR 18.4 million (about US$26.1 million). The Armenian authorities continue to treat the arrangement as precautionary.
    • Economic activity remains strong. Real GDP growth is expected to reach 4.5 percent in 2025 as external growth drivers continue to taper off amid higher global uncertainty.
    • The SBA aims to support the government’s policy and reform agenda to preserve economic and financial stability and support strong, inclusive, and sustainable growth.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the fifth review under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with Armenia. The completion of the review enables access to an amount equivalent to SDR 18.4 million (about US$26.1 million), bringing total access to the equivalent of SDR 110.4 million (about US$156.9 million). The SBA was approved by the IMF Executive Board on December 12, 2022 (see Press Release No. 22/429). The Armenian authorities continue to treat the arrangement as precautionary. The Executive Board’s decision was taken on a lapse-of-time basis.[1]

    Armenia’s economic activity remains strong. Real GDP growth reached 5.9 percent in 2024 and is expected to return to its long-term trend of 4.5 percent in 2025 as trade and services normalize. Inflation is expected to remain around the Central Bank of Armenia’s (CBA) target by end-2025. Risks to this outlook are elevated, stemming from the unprecedented uncertainty related to the ongoing global trade tensions and potential slowdown in the growth of trading partners. Regional geopolitical shifts, which could lead to a reversal of recent capital inflows and foreign exchange (FX) volatility, also weigh on the outlook.

    The slowdown in external demand, lower remittances inflows, and robust domestic demand, are projected to widen the current account deficit to 4.5 percent of GDP in 2025. Nonetheless, external and financial sector buffers remain strong.

    The 2025 budget deficit target of 5.5 percent of GDP is appropriate, accommodating priority spending needs, including on national security, refugee integration, and infrastructure development. The adopted 2026-28 medium-term expenditure framework will reduce the fiscal deficit in 2026 to 4.5 percent, supporting macro-fiscal stability while making room for well-targeted, priority social and development spending.

    The program is broadly on track. All end-December 2024 quantitative performance criteria (QPCs) have been met except for a small breach of the QPC on budget domestic lending. The end-December 2024 inflation was within the inner Monetary Policy Consultation Clause bands. Progress on structural benchmarks continues, although with some delays.

    The ongoing economic uncertainty underscores the need for prudent policies and steadfast implementation of structural reforms:

    • Fiscal policy should continue to balance the need to support national spending priorities while maintaining macro-fiscal stability, with further efforts to mobilize revenue and enhance spending efficiency.
    • The CBA should remain proactive in keeping inflation anchored, with future interest rate decisions guided by developments in inflation and inflation expectations. The flexible exchange rate should continue to serve as a key shock absorber. Foreign exchange interventions should be limited to addressing disorderly market conditions and seeking opportunities to bolster FX reserves through purchases when conditions allow.
    • To sustain long-term growth, structural reforms should continue to advance reforms focused on improving labor market flexibility, diversifying exports, enhancing supervisory frameworks, and strengthening governance.

    Table 1. Armenia: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2022–30

     

     

     

    2022

    2023

    2024

     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

     

     

    Act.

     

    Proj.
                           

    National income and prices:

    		                      

    Real GDP (percent change)

    		  

    12.6

    8.3

    5.9

    		  

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Final consumption expenditure, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    3.7

    5.3

    3.3

    		  

    3.8

    2.5

    2.9

    2.9

    2.9

    2.9

    Gross fixed capital formation, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    2.7

    3.1

    2.6

    		  

    2.6

    2.5

    2.1

    2.1

    2.1

    2.1

    Changes in inventories, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    -0.3

    0.0

    -0.3

    		  

    -1.8

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Net exports of goods and services, Contrib. to Growth

    		  

    6.2

    -0.1

    0.0

    		  

    0.3

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    -0.5

    Gross domestic product (in billions of drams)

    		  

    8,501

    9,493

    10,193

    		  

    10,926

    11,760

    12,658

    13,624

    14,665

    15,784

    Gross domestic product (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    19,514

    24,186

    25,705

    		  

    26,437

    26,864

    28,084

    29,724

    31,603

    33,547

    Gross domestic product per capita (in U.S. dollars)

    		  

    6,661

    8,159

    8,671

    		  

    8,917

    9,060

    9,471

    10,024

    10,656

    11,311

    CPI (period average; percent change)

    		  

    8.7

    2.0

    0.3

    		  

    3.2

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    CPI (end of period; percent change)

    		  

    8.3

    -0.6

    1.5

    		  

    3.3

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    GDP deflator (percent change)

    		  

    8.0

    3.1

    1.4

    		  

    2.6

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Unemployment rate (in percent)

    		  

    13.5

    12.4

    13.9

    		  

    13.5

    14.0

    14.0

    14.0

    14.0

    14.0

    Investment and saving (in percent of GDP)

    		                      

    Investment

    		  

    22.4

    22.9

    23.8

    		  

    21.2

    21.2

    21.2

    21.1

    21.1

    21.1

    National savings

    		  

    22.7

    20.6

    20.0

    		  

    16.7

    16.4

    16.5

    16.4

    16.3

    16.3
                           

    Money and credit (end of period)

    		                      

    Reserve money (percent change)

    		  

    5.0

    -4.0

    13.8

    		  

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    9.8

    Broad money (percent change)

    		  

    16.1

    17.4

    13.7

    		  

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    12.5

    Private sector credit growth (percent change)

    		  

    4.5

    18.4

    31.7

    		  

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    13.3

    Central government operations (in percent of GDP)

    		                      

    Revenue and grants

    		  

    24.3

    24.9

    25.3

    		  

    25.1

    25.4

    25.5

    25.5

    25.5

    25.5

    Of which: tax revenue

    		  

    21.9

    22.5

    22.4

    		  

    23.0

    23.3

    23.4

    23.4

    23.4

    23.4

    Expenditure

    		  

    26.4

    26.9

    29.0

    		  

    30.6

    29.9

    29.8

    29.3

    29.0

    28.8

    Overall balance on a cash basis

    		  

    -2.1

    -2.0

    -3.7

    		  

    -5.5

    -4.5

    -4.3

    -3.8

    -3.5

    -3.3

    Public and publicly-guaranteed (PPG) debt (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    49.2

    50.5

    50.0

    		  

    54.2

    55.9

    57.4

    57.6

    57.4

    57.1

    Central Government’s PPG debt (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    46.7

    48.2

    48.0

    		  

    52.4

    54.3

    56.0

    56.4

    56.4

    56.1

    Share of foreign currency Central Government PPG debt (in percent)

    		  

    62.1

    52.7

    48.2

    		  

    47.7

    46.9

    46.3

    46.3

    46.5

    46.9

    External sector

    		                      

    Exports of goods and services (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    10,118

    14,338

    18,618

    		  

    12,167

    12,292

    12,537

    12,863

    13,228

    13,611

    Exports of goods and services (percent change)

    		  

    100.8

    41.7

    29.8

    		  

    -34.7

    1.0

    2.0

    2.6

    2.8

    2.9

    Imports of goods and services (percent change)

    		  

    66.8

    41.6

    31.3

    		  

    -30.7

    1.2

    2.4

    2.9

    2.9

    3.1

    Current account balance (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    0.3

    -2.3

    -3.9

    		  

    -4.5

    -4.8

    -4.8

    -4.8

    -4.8

    -4.8

    FDI (net, in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    926

    527

    76

    		  

    397

    454

    468

    483

    529

    534

    Gross international reserves (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    		  

    4,112

    3,610

    3,679

    		  

    3,427

    3,561

    3,665

    3,768

    3,869

    3,969

    Import cover 1/

    		  

    3.4

    2.3

    3.3

    		  

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    3.1

    End-of-period exchange rate (dram per U.S. dollar)

    		  

    394

    405

    397

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (dram per U.S. dollar)

    		  

    436

    392

    397

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Armenian authorities; and Fund staff estimates and projections.

    1/ Gross international reserves in months of next year’s imports of goods and services, including the SDR holdings.
       
                                 

    [1] The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/27/pr-25222-armenia-imf-executive-board-completes-the-fifth-review-under-the-stand-by-arrangement

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the Supreme Court ruling against ‘universal injunctions’ means for court challenges to presidential actions

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University

    A journalist runs out of the U.S. Supreme Court building carrying a ruling on the last day of the court’s term on June 27, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    When presidents have tried to make big changes through executive orders, they have often hit a roadblock: A single federal judge, whether located in Seattle or Miami or anywhere in between, could stop these policies across the entire country.

    But on June 27, 2025, the Supreme Court significantly limited this judicial power. In Trump v. CASA Inc., a 6-3 majority ruled that federal courts likely lack the authority to issue “universal injunctions” that block government policies nationwide. The ruling means that going forward federal judges can generally only block policies from being enforced against the specific plaintiffs who filed the lawsuit, not against everyone in the country.

    The ruling emerged from a case challenging President Trump’s executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship. While three federal courts had blocked the policy nationwide, the Supreme Court allowed it to proceed against anyone who isn’t a named plaintiff in the lawsuits. This creates a legal environment where the same government policy can be simultaneously blocked for some people but enforced against others.

    Crucially, the court based its decision on interpreting the Judiciary Act of 1789 – not the Constitution – meaning Congress could restore this judicial power simply by passing new legislation.

    But what exactly are these injunctions, and why do they matter to everyday Americans?

    Immediate, irreparable harm

    When the government creates a policy that might violate the Constitution or federal law, affected people can sue in federal court to stop it. While these lawsuits work their way through the courts – a process that often takes years – judges can issue what are called “preliminary injunctions” to temporarily pause the policy if they determine it might cause immediate, irreparable harm.

    A “nationwide” injunction – sometimes called a “universal” injunction – goes further by stopping the policy for everyone across the country, not just for the people who filed the lawsuit.

    Importantly, these injunctions are designed to be temporary. They merely preserve the status quo until courts can fully examine the case’s merits. But in practice, litigation proceeds so slowly that executive actions blocked by the courts often expire when successor administrations abandon the policies.

    Legislation introduced by GOP Sen. Chuck Grassley would ban judges from issuing most nationwide injunctions.
    Sen. Chuck Grassley office

    More executive orders, more injunctions

    Nationwide injunctions aren’t new, but several things have made them more contentious recently.

    First, since a closely divided and polarized Congress rarely passes major legislation anymore, presidents rely more on executive orders to get substantive things done. This creates more opportunities to challenge presidential actions in court.

    Second, lawyers who want to challenge these orders got better at “judge shopping” – filing cases in districts where they’re likely to get judges who agree with their client’s views.

    Third, with growing political division, both parties used these injunctions more aggressively whenever the other party controls the White House.

    Affecting real people

    These legal fights have tangible consequences for millions of Americans.

    Take DACA, the common name for the program formally called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which protects about 500,000 young immigrants from deportation. For more than 10 years, these young immigrants, known as “Dreamers,” have faced constant uncertainty.

    That’s because, when President Barack Obama created DACA in 2012 and sought to expand it via executive order in 2015, a Texas judge blocked the expansion with a nationwide injunction. When Trump tried to end DACA, judges in California, New York and Washington, D.C. blocked that move. The program, and the legal challenges to it, continued under President Joe Biden. Now, the second Trump administration faces continued legal challenges over the constitutionality of the DACA program.

    More recently, judges have used nationwide injunctions to block several Trump policies. Three courts stopped the president’s attempt to deny citizenship to babies born to mothers who lack legal permanent residency in the United States – the cases that led the Supreme Court to limit the reach of injunctions. Judges have also temporarily blocked Trump’s efforts to ban transgender people from serving in the military and to freeze some federal funding for a variety of programs.

    Nationwide injunctions have also blocked congressional legislation.

    The Corporate Transparency Act, passed in 2021 and originally scheduled to go into effect in 2024, combats financial crimes by requiring businesses to disclose their true owners to the government. A Texas judge blocked this law in 2024 after gun stores challenged it.

    In early 2025, the Supreme Court allowed the law to take effect, but the Trump administration announced it simply wouldn’t enforce it – showing how these legal battles can become political power struggles.

    A polarized Congress rarely passes major legislation anymore, so presidents – including Donald Trump – have relied on executive orders to get things done.
    Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

    A ruling that Congress could change

    The Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. CASA was notably narrow in its legal reasoning. The court explicitly stated that its ruling “rests solely on the statutory authority that federal courts possess under the Judiciary Act of 1789” and that it expressed “no view on the Government’s argument that Article III forecloses universal relief.”

    This distinction matters enormously. Because the court based its decision on interpreting a congressional statute rather than the Constitution itself, Congress has the power to overturn the ruling simply by passing new legislation that authorizes federal judges to issue nationwide injunctions.

    The Supreme Court’s majority opinion, written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, emphasized that universal injunctions “likely exceed the equitable authority that Congress has granted to federal courts” under the Judiciary Act of 1789. The court found these injunctions lack sufficient historical precedent in traditional equity practice.

    However, the three dissenting justices strongly disagreed. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, focused on the importance of birthright citizenship, explaining that “every court to evaluate the Order has deemed it patently unconstitutional.”

    As a result, the dissent argues, “the Government instead tries its hand at a different game. It asks this Court to hold that, no matter how illegal a law or policy, courts can never simply tell the Executive to stop enforcing it against anyone.”

    Legislative solutions on the table

    Congress was already considering legislation to limit judges’ ability to grant nationwide injunctions.

    Another way to address the concerns about a single judge blocking government action would be to require a three-judge panel to hear cases involving nationwide injunctions, requiring at least two of them to agree. This is similar to how courts handled major civil rights cases in the 1950s and 1960s.

    My research on this topic suggests that three judges working together would be less likely to make partisan decisions, while still being able to protect constitutional rights when necessary. Today’s technology also makes it easier for judges in different locations to work together than it was decades ago.

    What comes next

    With the Supreme Court limiting judges’ ability to issue nationwide injunctions based on an old statute, the ball is now in Congress’ court. Lawmakers could choose to restore this judicial power with new legislation, further restrict it, or leave the current limitations in place.

    Until Congress acts, the legal landscape has fundamentally shifted.

    Future challenges to presidential actions may require either cumbersome class action lawsuits or a patchwork of individual cases – potentially leaving many Americans without immediate protection from policies that courts determine violate the Constitution. But unlike a constitutional ruling, this outcome isn’t permanent: Congress holds the key to change it.

    This is an updated and expanded version of a story originally published on April 3, 2025.

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

    – ref. What the Supreme Court ruling against ‘universal injunctions’ means for court challenges to presidential actions – https://theconversation.com/what-the-supreme-court-ruling-against-universal-injunctions-means-for-court-challenges-to-presidential-actions-260040

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California invests billions of dollars to fix roads with “gas tax,” expand bus and train service

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 27, 2025

    What you need to know: Continuing Governor Newsom’s build more, faster agenda, the state is awarding nearly $5 billion today to infrastructure projects that improve roads, expand transportation, bus and rail options while improving public health and safety.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced nearly $5 billion in funding to improve state highways, expand bus, train, and clean transportation services, and increase pedestrian and bicycle travel options. The funds announced today are awarded by the California Transportation Commission (CTC). 

    The investments announced today are a key part of Governor Newsom’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and creating thousands of jobs across the state.

    “We’re not just rebuilding transportation – we’re reimagining it. This investment – upwards of $5 billion – is about protecting Californians today and preparing for tomorrow with transit and transportation options that are safer, cleaner, and built to serve the needs of every Californian.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Nearly $2.44 billion of the funding announced today comes from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, which puts drivers’ gas tax dollars to work improving the safety conditions of California’s roadways. $1.45 billion of this funding will go to zero- and low-emission transportation and new infrastructure to strengthen California’s freight network and better connect marine ports with railyards and freight corridors — leading to less traffic and improved road conditions. 

    The Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) will provide $810 million to projects designed to improve freight movement and reduce toxic pollution by decreasing the time trucks, cars and trains sit idle and by rerouting tractor-trailers. It will also increase the number of zero-emission truck stations by 25%.

     “Under Governor Gavin Newsom’s leadership, these transformative investments represent a bold step towards a future where our transportation system is safer, more efficient and a driving force for economic prosperity,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “By tackling congestion and enhancing connectivity, we are creating a brighter, more sustainable California for all.”

    “The Commission is pleased to partner with Caltrans to continue investing in California’s world-class transportation system,” said Commission Chair Darnell Grisby. “The investments we are making today will improve safety, ease congestion and reduce out-of-pocket costs for everyone in California.”

    Projects receiving funding announced today include:

    • $483 million to help communities invest in passenger rail extensions, bicycle and pedestrian safety and rapid transit bus expansion
    • $202 million for projects in the Local Partnership Competitive Program to further upgrade rail, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities
    •  $63 million for improvements to the Ramona Expressway in Riverside County, including a new bridge over the San Jacinto River, bike lanes in each direction, and a new wildlife crossing
    • $49 million to build charging hubs in the cities of Fresno, Oakland, Ontario, and San Diego to support clean medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets
    •  $28 million to install ultra-fast vehicle charging stations along Interstate 5 and State Route 99
    •  $18 million for a variety of safety enhancements around five schools most affected by traffic congestion in the city of Los Angeles

    SB 1 has invested approximately $5 billion annually toward transportation projects since its adoption. It provides funding split between the state and local agencies. 

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 27, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today after the U.S. Supreme Court announced its ruling on Trump v. CASA, Trump v. Washington, and Trump v. New Jersey: In a challenge to the Trump Administration’s blatantly…

    Jun 26, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Kira Younger, of Fair Oaks, has been appointed Chief Financial Officer and Director of the Finance and Accounting Division at the California Department of Social Services. Younger has…

    Jun 26, 2025

    News What you need to know: La Passeggiata on Lindsey Street in Stockton is the latest site to be transformed from excess, underutilized state land into affordable housing under Governor Newsom’s executive order. STOCKTON — Today, state leaders broke ground on a new…

    MIL OSI USA News –