Category: Transport

MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa, Zinke Praise USDA Move to Scrap Roadless Rule Blocking Forest Access

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) and Congressman Ryan Zinke (R-MT) released the following statement applauding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s decision to rescind the Roadless Rule. This rule prevented road construction, reconstruction, and timber harvesting on almost 59 million acres of the National Forest System.

“I want to thank Secretary Rollins for rescinding the Roadless Rule, a Clinton-era midnight regulation which has done more harm than good in the West,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “This policy blocked responsible forest management, preventing thinning, logging, and the ability to build roads that are critical for wildfire response and public safety. Two decades on, our forests are more overgrown, wildfires are more catastrophic, and rural economies have fewer jobs. Repealing the Roadless Rule is a major step toward restoring common-sense forest management and giving local experts the ability to do their jobs.”

“The rescission of the outdated Roadless Rule is a victory for Montana, public lands, and forest management everywhere,” said Rep. Zinke. “As I’ve long maintained, one of the biggest obstacles to proper forest management and wildfire prevention has been unnecessary and overbearing regulations like this one. If you can’t build a road, you can’t fight fires, you can’t cut trees, and you can’t properly take care of our national heritage held in our public lands. I applaud the President and Secretary Rollins for their initiative to allow real and needed work to be done on our national forest land.”

The Roadless Rule tied the hands of land managers for years, especially in Western states where wildfire risk is high and economic opportunities are closely linked to working forests. Its repeal is a long-overdue correction that restores balance between conservation and the practical need to access, manage, and protect our forests.

Rep. LaMalfa spoke on the House floor in support of this decision and the need for active forest management. You can watch his full remarks here.

Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 26, 2025
Over 90% Indian employees confident about affording healthcare needs: Report

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

More than 90 per cent of employees in India are confident that they can afford the healthcare needs for themselves and their families, according to a report on Thursday.

The Mercer Marsh Benefits report, based on a survey of over 18,000 employees across 17 markets, including in India, explores what employees value most from their workplace benefits, and how their expectations are evolving.

The findings showed that for Indian employees there are high levels of well-being and satisfaction. The report also highlights growing expectations around flexibility, personalisation, and long-term support, indicating a broader evolution in the Indian workforce – one that is becoming more rooted in long-term ambitions.

While the report showed that although 92 per cent of employees are confident about affording healthcare needs, the top two reasons for delaying healthcare are financial and anticipated long wait times.

This suggests that even with insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and other financial considerations are still preventing some employees from getting the care they need.

Further, the report showed that employers have emerged as the most trusted source of affordable, quality healthcare.

It showed that more than 80 per cent of employees who could personalise their benefits packages felt their employer cared about their health and well-being.

For employers, this presents a timely opportunity to outpace their competition by adapting their benefits strategy and building affordable coverage by focusing on preventive care and early detection to primary care, through outpatient provisions (OPD), said the report.

“Our report provides a strategic blueprint for employers. Specifically for India, it is the growing emphasis on longevity and planning for the future. As life expectancy increases and careers extend, employers have a profound opportunity to build trust and commitment by prioritising benefits that support long-term health planning and financial well-being, ensuring their workforce thrives not just today, but well into retirement,” said Sanjay Kedia, Chief Executive Officer, Marsh McLennan India President and CEO, Marsh India.

The report also suggested employers bolster quality and timely healthcare by exploring innovative care delivery models, such as telemedicine and partnerships with local healthcare providers.

(IANS)

June 26, 2025
Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025: Indian Army remembers fallen soldiers, plans memorial outreach

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Indian Army has begun commemorative events ahead of the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, which marks India’s victory over Pakistani forces during the 1999 Kargil conflict in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Army on Thursday shared moments from “Operation Vijay,” the military operation during which Indian forces reclaimed strategic positions infiltrated by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control. The conflict, which lasted from May to July 1999, ended with India regaining control over key mountain peaks, including Tiger Hill.

A post from the Army’s public information department on social media platform X said: “Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025. 30 Days to Go… 30 Days to Remember. A tribute to the unmatched valour of our bravehearts. Their courage echoes through the heights of Kargil, forever etched in the soul of India.”

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually on July 26.

This year’s commemorations come months after India carried out airstrikes under “Operation Sindoor,” targeting nine alleged terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, along with 11 airbases, according to Indian defence officials.

As part of its outreach initiative, the Indian Army is reaching out to the families of 545 soldiers who were killed in the 1999 Kargil conflict. Army teams are visiting households across 25 states, two Union Territories, and Nepal to deliver letters of gratitude, commemorative mementoes, and detailed information on welfare benefits extended by the central and state governments. The visits also aim to gather feedback on unresolved issues or support gaps faced by the families.

In one such visit this month, Army officers presented a memento to the parents of Captain Vijayant Thapar, who was killed in the conflict. The meeting took place at their residence in Noida, northern India.

The Army also plans to collect personal memorabilia from the families of the deceased to preserve at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras. The commemorations will conclude with a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial on July 26.

The Kargil War began when Indian troops detected Pakistani forces occupying mountain posts on the Indian side of the Line of Control. After weeks of high-altitude fighting, Indian forces regained control of the territory, officially declaring victory on July 26, 1999.

-IANS

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Can Zero Tariffs Drive Real Change? China’s New Trade Policy and Africa’s Energy-Led Future

China’s zero-tariff policy for African goods has expanded rapidly in recent years, with 53 of the continent’s countries now eligible to export their taxable goods to the Chinese market duty-free. Promoted as a vehicle for deeper Sino-African cooperation and shared prosperity, the policy has gained attention for its potential to open access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets. But as the continent looks to secure long-term development and industrial transformation, a central question arises: will trade preferences like this serve as a catalyst for Africa’s economic evolution, or simply reinforce its role as a low-value commodity supplier?

Eswatini – one of the few African countries that maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan – was excluded from the tariff breaks, underscoring that access to China’s market remains conditional. The expanded duty-free and tax incentives also appear as a counter to the Trump-era tariffs, placing Africa in the throes of the China-U.S. trade war.

As African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies prepares to convene in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3, the broader question for the continent is whether these expanding trade policies can deliver tangible, scalable benefits. Africa’s ability to meet its development and energy access goals will depend not only on increased trade, but on how effectively such policies translate into investment in infrastructure, energy, and industrial growth.

The Promise and Limits of Zero-Tariff Access

On paper, zero-tariff access is a welcome opportunity. For African countries seeking to diversify export destinations and boost agricultural, mineral and energy-based trade, the initiative offers a cost advantage that could help expand trade volumes. For oil and gas producers, there may be openings to increase exports of refined products, petrochemicals or fertilizers, if the necessary processing capacity exists.

But therein lies the challenge. Most African countries lack the industrial and energy infrastructure to capitalize on such preferences. Many exports continue to be raw or semi-processed materials with limited value retention on the continent. Tariff-free access does little to change that if non-tariff barriers, unreliable power supply or inadequate transport logistics continue to undermine competitiveness.

Energy sits at the core of that equation. Africa’s path to economic sovereignty depends on its ability to convert natural resources into industrial products – a process that begins with investment in upstream development and extends through midstream logistics and downstream transformation. Whether it’s building pipelines and LNG infrastructure, electrifying industrial corridors or developing fertilizer and plastics manufacturing hubs, Africa’s energy systems must evolve to support trade ambitions.

Africa’s Path to Integrated Energy and Industrial Growth

Several countries are already moving in that direction. Nigeria is pushing forward with its gas commercialization strategy; Mozambique is scaling up LNG; Senegal and Mauritania are emerging as cross-border gas hubs. These projects not only generate export revenue, but create the foundation for broader economic diversification, from petrochemical industries to power generation for local factories.

Meanwhile, the African Continental Free Trade Area provides the framework to harmonize standards, reduce internal tariffs and build common infrastructure, such as pipelines, ports and refineries, thereby enabling economies of scale and intra-African trade. If combined with external access like China’s zero-tariff policy, this dual approach could allow African nations to integrate vertically and horizontally, moving from fragmented markets to unified production ecosystems.

Still, risks remain. Trade with China remains heavily skewed toward raw materials, with manufactured imports often undercutting local industries. Without targeted support for African manufacturing, technology transfer and local content, tariff preferences risk entrenching the continent’s supplier status rather than overturning it. African governments must therefore ensure that policies – both trade- and energy-related – are designed to channel benefits inward, not just extract them outward.

“That is the true promise of AEW 2025. As leaders, investors and institutions gather in Cape Town, the conference will not only facilitate deals and investment flows, but ask complex questions about how Africa can seize agency in its global partnerships. Energy security, industrialization and trade access must be viewed not in silos, but as interconnected levers for long-term prosperity,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

MIL OSI Africa –

June 26, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Jim Chalmers juggles expectations and ambition in pursuing tax reform

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Next week will be the 40th anniversary of the Hawke government’s tax summit. Dominated by then treasurer Paul Keating’s unsuccessful bid to win support for a consumption tax, it was the public centrepiece of an extraordinary political and policy story.

That story was about the possibilities for, but constraints on, bold reform; how a determined treasurer can muster a formidable department to push for change, and the way the ambitions of a minister can clash with the pragmatism of a prime minister.

Ken Henry, later secretary of the treasury, was then part of what they dubbed the “treasury tax reform bunker”. He kept a timesheet, averaging 100 hours work a week for a three-month period. Officials brought sleeping bags and their small children (Henry’s were aged three and five) into the office.

Before the summit, the government produced a comprehensive draft white paper. Keating battled to keep the conflicting interests “in the cart” for his blueprint. But the four-day summit, attended by business, unions, premiers and community groups, was inevitably divided by stakeholders’ self-interests. In particular, the unions couldn’t wear Keating’s consumption tax, and Bob Hawke kyboshed it unceremoniously. Keating, who had to settle for a more limited but still very significant set of reforms, was furious with Hawke, and it left a fracture in their relationship.

Jim Chalmers was aged seven in 1985. But he’s a student of Keating (he did his PhD on his prime ministership) and you can be sure he’s boned up on what went right and wrong in that tax reform exercise. Now he is preparing for the government’s August 19-21 “roundtable” and his own bid at major tax reform.

The roundtable, as first announced, focused on “productivity”, and that will be central. But Chalmers has taken to calling it an “economic reform” roundtable – its brief also includes budget sustainability and resilience – and he is effectively putting tax reform close to its heart, or at least letting others do so. After all, a fit-for-purpose tax system is one key to improving productivity.

The roundtable (for which invitations to business and the union movement are now going out, with more to follow) is nothing like on the scale, in size (the 1985 summit had about 160 attendees, the roundtable will have about 25) or preparation, of the elaborate 1985 conference.

And crucially, while that summit was the culmination of a process, Chalmers is using the roundtable to kick off a process.

Chalmers is lowering expectations in regard to specific outcomes from the summit on tax. While those might be obtainable on some productivity issues, on tax he is likely to look for broad support for a direction of reform. For instance, is there a general appetite for reshaping the tax system towards lower personal and company tax, offset by higher taxes on certain investments and savings? `

Most tax experts argue Australia’s system is too skewed towards taxing income rather than spending. This leads to calls to increase or broaden the GST, financing cuts to personal income tax.

Chalmers has been a long-term opponent of changing the GST, but he says he is not ruling the GST out for discussion at the roundtable. (That’s a contrast to when Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, commissioning Henry to lead a major tax review, excluded the GST from its terms of reference.)

Almost certainly, however, it would not be possible to get “consensus” from business and unions for GST changes. Not least of the constraints is that compensating the losers in such a change is very expensive and there is not the money to do so these days.

That immediately limits the extent of reform.

Henry tells The Conversation’s podcast that if he were designing a tax reform package “I’d be looking at opportunities to broaden the GST and maybe to increase the rate as well”.

But “I do think it is possible to achieve major tax reform […] without necessarily increasing the [GST] rate or extending the base”.

Henry’s (non-GST) wish list includes getting rid of the remaining state transaction taxes, such as stamp duty on property conveyancing.

Notably, he argues for extracting more revenue from taxing natural resources and land, and also from taxing pollution from various sources. “We’re going to need to tax those things more heavily if we’re going to relieve the tax burden on young workers through lower personal income tax and introducing tax indexation.”

Henry is particularly focused on the unfair burden at present put on these younger taxpayers. He has come around to the idea of income tax indexation as one means of assisting them.

A system more geared to younger workers raises immediate questions about the present generous treatment of superannuants. Chalmers is already caught in that hornets’ nest with his proposed changes for those with balances more than $3 million.

To what extent will the roundtable tax debate revive the issues of negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount? The government hosed down before the election the prospect of any changes to negative gearing this term. Chalmers, however, had work done on this last term and he would likely favour reining it in. But would this be a bridge too far for the prime minister?

Indeed, where will Anthony Albanese’s limits be when it comes to reform? Would he only support changes that had strong consensus? And how far would he feel constrained in going beyond what he considers he has a mandate for?

If Chalmers stays serious about the tax push, it is going to take many months of intense work. It can’t be rushed, but nor can it be delayed. If it ran for much over a year it would likely find the government’s political capital had been eroded. The size of its capital store can appear deceptive because so much of it is thanks to Peter Dutton and Donald Trump.

In 2022, the Liberals boycotted Labor’s jobs and skills summit (although Nationals leader David Littlepround attended). This time, shadow treasurer Ted O’Brien has accepted Chalmers’ invitation and will participate in the roundtable.

It will be a tricky gig for O’Brien, new to this shadow portfolio. He has to avoid being too negative, but nor can he endorse things the opposition might later reject. The Coalition will not have a tax policy against which to judge what’s said.

The occasion will be a chance for O’Brien to make contacts and get more insight into stakeholders’ views on the key economic debates, much wider than just tax.

Importantly, however, O’Brien will need to remember judgements will be being made about him by other participants in the room. Business in particular will be seeking to get a fix on whether opposition leader Sussan Ley’s declarations about wanting to be constructive where possible are fair dinkum.

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

– ref. Grattan on Friday: Jim Chalmers juggles expectations and ambition in pursuing tax reform – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-jim-chalmers-juggles-expectations-and-ambition-in-pursuing-tax-reform-258971

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 26, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Jim Chalmers juggles expectations and ambition in pursuing tax reform

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Next week will be the 40th anniversary of the Hawke government’s tax summit. Dominated by then treasurer Paul Keating’s unsuccessful bid to win support for a consumption tax, it was the public centrepiece of an extraordinary political and policy story.

That story was about the possibilities for, but constraints on, bold reform; how a determined treasurer can muster a formidable department to push for change, and the way the ambitions of a minister can clash with the pragmatism of a prime minister.

Ken Henry, later secretary of the treasury, was then part of what they dubbed the “treasury tax reform bunker”. He kept a timesheet, averaging 100 hours work a week for a three-month period. Officials brought sleeping bags and their small children (Henry’s were aged three and five) into the office.

Before the summit, the government produced a comprehensive draft white paper. Keating battled to keep the conflicting interests “in the cart” for his blueprint. But the four-day summit, attended by business, unions, premiers and community groups, was inevitably divided by stakeholders’ self-interests. In particular, the unions couldn’t wear Keating’s consumption tax, and Bob Hawke kyboshed it unceremoniously. Keating, who had to settle for a more limited but still very significant set of reforms, was furious with Hawke, and it left a fracture in their relationship.

Jim Chalmers was aged seven in 1985. But he’s a student of Keating (he did his PhD on his prime ministership) and you can be sure he’s boned up on what went right and wrong in that tax reform exercise. Now he is preparing for the government’s August 19-21 “roundtable” and his own bid at major tax reform.

The roundtable, as first announced, focused on “productivity”, and that will be central. But Chalmers has taken to calling it an “economic reform” roundtable – its brief also includes budget sustainability and resilience – and he is effectively putting tax reform close to its heart, or at least letting others do so. After all, a fit-for-purpose tax system is one key to improving productivity.

The roundtable (for which invitations to business and the union movement are now going out, with more to follow) is nothing like on the scale, in size (the 1985 summit had about 160 attendees, the roundtable will have about 25) or preparation, of the elaborate 1985 conference.

And crucially, while that summit was the culmination of a process, Chalmers is using the roundtable to kick off a process.

Chalmers is lowering expectations in regard to specific outcomes from the summit on tax. While those might be obtainable on some productivity issues, on tax he is likely to look for broad support for a direction of reform. For instance, is there a general appetite for reshaping the tax system towards lower personal and company tax, offset by higher taxes on certain investments and savings? `

Most tax experts argue Australia’s system is too skewed towards taxing income rather than spending. This leads to calls to increase or broaden the GST, financing cuts to personal income tax.

Chalmers has been a long-term opponent of changing the GST, but he says he is not ruling the GST out for discussion at the roundtable. (That’s a contrast to when Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, commissioning Henry to lead a major tax review, excluded the GST from its terms of reference.)

Almost certainly, however, it would not be possible to get “consensus” from business and unions for GST changes. Not least of the constraints is that compensating the losers in such a change is very expensive and there is not the money to do so these days.

That immediately limits the extent of reform.

Henry tells The Conversation’s podcast that if he were designing a tax reform package “I’d be looking at opportunities to broaden the GST and maybe to increase the rate as well”.

But “I do think it is possible to achieve major tax reform […] without necessarily increasing the [GST] rate or extending the base”.

Henry’s (non-GST) wish list includes getting rid of the remaining state transaction taxes, such as stamp duty on property conveyancing.

Notably, he argues for extracting more revenue from taxing natural resources and land, and also from taxing pollution from various sources. “We’re going to need to tax those things more heavily if we’re going to relieve the tax burden on young workers through lower personal income tax and introducing tax indexation.”

Henry is particularly focused on the unfair burden at present put on these younger taxpayers. He has come around to the idea of income tax indexation as one means of assisting them.

A system more geared to younger workers raises immediate questions about the present generous treatment of superannuants. Chalmers is already caught in that hornets’ nest with his proposed changes for those with balances more than $3 million.

To what extent will the roundtable tax debate revive the issues of negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount? The government hosed down before the election the prospect of any changes to negative gearing this term. Chalmers, however, had work done on this last term and he would likely favour reining it in. But would this be a bridge too far for the prime minister?

Indeed, where will Anthony Albanese’s limits be when it comes to reform? Would he only support changes that had strong consensus? And how far would he feel constrained in going beyond what he considers he has a mandate for?

If Chalmers stays serious about the tax push, it is going to take many months of intense work. It can’t be rushed, but nor can it be delayed. If it ran for much over a year it would likely find the government’s political capital had been eroded. The size of its capital store can appear deceptive because so much of it is thanks to Peter Dutton and Donald Trump.

In 2022, the Liberals boycotted Labor’s jobs and skills summit (although Nationals leader David Littlepround attended). This time, shadow treasurer Ted O’Brien has accepted Chalmers’ invitation and will participate in the roundtable.

It will be a tricky gig for O’Brien, new to this shadow portfolio. He has to avoid being too negative, but nor can he endorse things the opposition might later reject. The Coalition will not have a tax policy against which to judge what’s said.

The occasion will be a chance for O’Brien to make contacts and get more insight into stakeholders’ views on the key economic debates, much wider than just tax.

Importantly, however, O’Brien will need to remember judgements will be being made about him by other participants in the room. Business in particular will be seeking to get a fix on whether opposition leader Sussan Ley’s declarations about wanting to be constructive where possible are fair dinkum.

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

– ref. Grattan on Friday: Jim Chalmers juggles expectations and ambition in pursuing tax reform – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-jim-chalmers-juggles-expectations-and-ambition-in-pursuing-tax-reform-258971

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: How Nato summit shows Europe and US no longer have a common enemy

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew Corbett, Senior Lecturer in Defence Studies, King’s College London

Mark Rutte had an unenviable task at the Hague summit this week. The Nato secretary-general had to work with diverging American and European views of current security threats. After Rutte made extraordinary efforts at highly deferential, overt flattery of Donald Trump to secure crucial outcomes for the alliance, he seems to have succeeded for now.

But what this meeting and the run-up has made increasingly clear is that the US and Europe no longer perceive themselves as having a single common enemy. Nato was established in 1949 as a defensive alliance against the acknowledged threat from the USSR. This defined the alliance through the cold war until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Since Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, Nato has focused on Moscow as the major threat to international peace. But the increasingly bellicose China is demanding more attention from the US.

There are some symbolic moves that signal how things are changing. Every Nato summit declaration since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has used the same form of words: “We adhere to international law and to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and are committed to upholding the rules-based international order.”

The declaration published during the Hague summit on June 25 conspicuously does not mention either. Indeed, in a departure from recent declarations, the five paragraphs of the Hague summit declaration are brutally short and focused entirely on portraying the alliance solely in terms of military capability and economic investment to sustain that. No mention of international law and order this time.

This appears to be a carefully orchestrated output of a deliberately shortened summit designed to contain Trump’s unpredictable interventions. This also seems symptomatic of a widening division between the American strategic trajectory and the security interests perceived by Canada and the European members of Nato.

That this declaration was so short, and so focused on such a narrow range of issues suggests there were unusually entrenched differences that could not be surmounted.

Since the onslaught of the full Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Nato allies have been united in their criticism of Russia and support for Ukraine; until now.

Since January, the Trump administration has not authorised any military aid to Ukraine and significantly reduced material support to Ukraine and criticism of Russia. Trump has sought to end the war rapidly on terms effectively capitulating to Russian aggression; his proposal suggests recognising Russia’s control over Crimea and de facto control over some other occupied territories (Luhansk, parts of Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Kherson) He has also suggested Ukraine would not join Nato but might receive security guarantees and the right to join the EU.

Meanwhile, European allies have sought to fund and support Ukraine’s defensive efforts, increasing aid and military support, and continuing to ramp up sanctions.

Another sign of the differing priorities of Europe and Canada v the US, was the decision by Pete Hegseth, US secretary of defense, to step back from leadership of the Ukraine defence contact group, an ad-hoc coalition of states across the world providing military support to Ukraine. Hegseth also symbolically failed to attend the group’s pre-summit meeting in June.

Trump has long been adamant that Nato members should meet their 2014 commitment to spend 2% of their GDP on defence, and Rutte recognised that. In 2018, Trump suggested that this should be increased to 4 or 5% but this was dismissed as unreasonable. Now, in a decision which indicates increasing concern about both Russia as a threat and US support, Nato members (except for Spain) have agreed to increase spending to 5% of GDP on defence over the next 10 years.

Donald Trump gives a press conference after the Nato summit.

Nato’s article 3 requires states to maintain and develop their capacity to resist attack. However, since 2022, it has become increasingly apparent that many Nato members are unprepared for any major military engagement. At the same time, they are increasingly feeling that Russia is more of a threat on their doorsteps. There has been recognition, particularly among the Baltic states, Germany, France and the UK that they need to increase their military spending and preparedness.

For the US to focus more on China, US forces will shift a greater percentage of the US Navy to the Pacific. It will also assign its most capable new ships and aircraft to the region and increase general presence operations, training and developmental exercises, and engagement and cooperation with allied and other navies in the western Pacific. To do this US forces will need to reduce commitments in Europe, and European allies must replace those capabilities in order to sustain deterrence against Russia.

The bedrock of the Nato treaty, article 5, is commonly paraphrased as “an attack on one is an attack on all”. On his way to the Hague summit, Trump seemed unsure about the US commitment to Nato. Asked to clarify this at the summit, he stated: “I stand with it [Article 5]. That’s why I’m here. If I didn’t stand with it, I wouldn’t be here.”

Lord Ismay, the first secretary-general of Nato, famously (if apocryphally) suggested that the purpose of the alliance was to keep the Russians out, the Americans in and the Germans down. Germany is now an integral part of Nato, and the Americans are in, if distracted. But there are cracks, and Rutte will have his hands full managing Trump’s declining interest in protecting Europe if he is to keep the Russians at bay.

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

– ref. How Nato summit shows Europe and US no longer have a common enemy – https://theconversation.com/how-nato-summit-shows-europe-and-us-no-longer-have-a-common-enemy-259842

MIL OSI Analysis –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: How Nato summit shows Europe and US no longer have a common enemy

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew Corbett, Senior Lecturer in Defence Studies, King’s College London

Mark Rutte had an unenviable task at the Hague summit this week. The Nato secretary-general had to work with diverging American and European views of current security threats. After Rutte made extraordinary efforts at highly deferential, overt flattery of Donald Trump to secure crucial outcomes for the alliance, he seems to have succeeded for now.

But what this meeting and the run-up has made increasingly clear is that the US and Europe no longer perceive themselves as having a single common enemy. Nato was established in 1949 as a defensive alliance against the acknowledged threat from the USSR. This defined the alliance through the cold war until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Since Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, Nato has focused on Moscow as the major threat to international peace. But the increasingly bellicose China is demanding more attention from the US.

There are some symbolic moves that signal how things are changing. Every Nato summit declaration since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has used the same form of words: “We adhere to international law and to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and are committed to upholding the rules-based international order.”

The declaration published during the Hague summit on June 25 conspicuously does not mention either. Indeed, in a departure from recent declarations, the five paragraphs of the Hague summit declaration are brutally short and focused entirely on portraying the alliance solely in terms of military capability and economic investment to sustain that. No mention of international law and order this time.

This appears to be a carefully orchestrated output of a deliberately shortened summit designed to contain Trump’s unpredictable interventions. This also seems symptomatic of a widening division between the American strategic trajectory and the security interests perceived by Canada and the European members of Nato.

That this declaration was so short, and so focused on such a narrow range of issues suggests there were unusually entrenched differences that could not be surmounted.

Since the onslaught of the full Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Nato allies have been united in their criticism of Russia and support for Ukraine; until now.

Since January, the Trump administration has not authorised any military aid to Ukraine and significantly reduced material support to Ukraine and criticism of Russia. Trump has sought to end the war rapidly on terms effectively capitulating to Russian aggression; his proposal suggests recognising Russia’s control over Crimea and de facto control over some other occupied territories (Luhansk, parts of Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Kherson) He has also suggested Ukraine would not join Nato but might receive security guarantees and the right to join the EU.

Meanwhile, European allies have sought to fund and support Ukraine’s defensive efforts, increasing aid and military support, and continuing to ramp up sanctions.

Another sign of the differing priorities of Europe and Canada v the US, was the decision by Pete Hegseth, US secretary of defense, to step back from leadership of the Ukraine defence contact group, an ad-hoc coalition of states across the world providing military support to Ukraine. Hegseth also symbolically failed to attend the group’s pre-summit meeting in June.

Trump has long been adamant that Nato members should meet their 2014 commitment to spend 2% of their GDP on defence, and Rutte recognised that. In 2018, Trump suggested that this should be increased to 4 or 5% but this was dismissed as unreasonable. Now, in a decision which indicates increasing concern about both Russia as a threat and US support, Nato members (except for Spain) have agreed to increase spending to 5% of GDP on defence over the next 10 years.

Donald Trump gives a press conference after the Nato summit.

Nato’s article 3 requires states to maintain and develop their capacity to resist attack. However, since 2022, it has become increasingly apparent that many Nato members are unprepared for any major military engagement. At the same time, they are increasingly feeling that Russia is more of a threat on their doorsteps. There has been recognition, particularly among the Baltic states, Germany, France and the UK that they need to increase their military spending and preparedness.

For the US to focus more on China, US forces will shift a greater percentage of the US Navy to the Pacific. It will also assign its most capable new ships and aircraft to the region and increase general presence operations, training and developmental exercises, and engagement and cooperation with allied and other navies in the western Pacific. To do this US forces will need to reduce commitments in Europe, and European allies must replace those capabilities in order to sustain deterrence against Russia.

The bedrock of the Nato treaty, article 5, is commonly paraphrased as “an attack on one is an attack on all”. On his way to the Hague summit, Trump seemed unsure about the US commitment to Nato. Asked to clarify this at the summit, he stated: “I stand with it [Article 5]. That’s why I’m here. If I didn’t stand with it, I wouldn’t be here.”

Lord Ismay, the first secretary-general of Nato, famously (if apocryphally) suggested that the purpose of the alliance was to keep the Russians out, the Americans in and the Germans down. Germany is now an integral part of Nato, and the Americans are in, if distracted. But there are cracks, and Rutte will have his hands full managing Trump’s declining interest in protecting Europe if he is to keep the Russians at bay.

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

– ref. How Nato summit shows Europe and US no longer have a common enemy – https://theconversation.com/how-nato-summit-shows-europe-and-us-no-longer-have-a-common-enemy-259842

MIL OSI Analysis –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public views sought on the licensing of sexual entertainment venues

Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

A new consultation has been launched seeking the public’s views on the licensing of Sexual Entertainment Venues in Aberdeen.

The Council’s Licensing Committee resolved on 3 December 2019 to licence Sexual Entertainment Venues. The existing Sexual Entertainment Venue Licensing Policy was approved on 14th December 2021 and became effective from 1st March 2022.

Members of the committee are looking to undertake a formal review of the policy to establish whether it remains fit for purpose and to ensure details such as the numerical limit of premises remain at the appropriate level.

Committee convener Councillor Gill Al-Samarai: “It is almost three years since our existing policy was introduced and we are encouraging interested parties to make their views known as to whether or not it requires amending.

“In developing the current licensing policy, we took care to balance the freedom of individuals to engage in legal employment and activities with the right to exercise appropriate control and regulation to ensure the safety, health and wellbeing of the staff and patrons. The same approach will underpin our consultation and any changes that need to be made to further ensure public safety.”

There are currently six licensed Sexual Entertainment Venues in Aberdeen city centre, although it is thought that one of the premises is not currently operating as a Sexual Entertainment Venue and another of the premises is currently up for sale.

It was previously decided that there should be zero licenced Sexual Entertainment Venues outwith Aberdeen city centre, as locations outside the city centre were deemed not suitable for the licensable activity.

The committee is seeking views on:
•    the appropriate number of Sexual Entertainment Venues in Aberdeen city centre;
•    whether the number of Sexual Entertainment Venue premises outwith Aberdeen city centre should remain at zero; and
•    what matters should be taken into consideration in any amendments of the existing policy.
Premises are classed as a Sexual Entertainment Venue if:
•    sexual entertainment is provided before a live audience for the direct or indirect financial benefit of the organiser;
•    sexual entertainment is any live performance or live display of nudity provided for the sole or principal purpose of sexual stimulation of members of the audience.
Premises where sexual entertainment is provided on no more than four occasions in a 12-month period are not to be treated as Sexual Entertainment Venues.

To take part in the consultation: Sexual Entertainment Venue Licensing Policy Consultation 2025

The consultation ends on 31 July and feedback received will be included in the report to Licensing Committee on 27 August 2025.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Give your view on the future of local government in Norwich

Source: City of Norwich

Norwich City Council is inviting residents to take part in a series of local engagement events this summer, as councils seek views on the future of local government in Norfolk.

The Government is reducing the number of councils and bring services together to be provided by new ‘unitary councils’ (also known as unitary authorities), instead of by existing borough, city, district and county councils.

All Norfolk councils have been asked to send in their proposals for what the future of service delivery could look like. If areas can’t agree a proposal for the future, the Government has said it will pass a law to proceed with its own proposal.

Engagement events in Norwich

The Norwich events, running from 1 to 19 July in all wards of the city, are part of a collaborative effort between six local authorities to explore how local services can be delivered more effectively, efficiently, and closer to the communities they serve.

Residents are encouraged to attend their local ward event to learn more, ask questions, and share their views. Each event will be hosted by council representatives and will offer an opportunity to discuss what matters most to local people—from housing and transport to community services and the environment.

Event details:

Events will take place in locations across Norwich.

Tuesday 1 July – Crome Ward
Witard Road shops, Heartsease, NR7 9XD
2 to 5pm

Wednesday 2 July – Town Close Ward
Outside Bread and Roses Café, Vauxhall Street, NR2 2AA
10am to midday

Thursday 3 July – University Ward
Enfield Road playground, NR5 8LE
2:30 to 4:30pm

Friday 4 July – Mancroft Ward

Outside the Forum, Millennium Plain, NR2 1TF
11:30am to 4pm

Monday 7 July – Lakenham Ward
Jubilee Park, Long John Hill, NR1 2EX
3 to 6pm

Tuesday 8 July – Nelson Ward
Heigham Park, The Avenues, NR2 3JF
1:30 to 4:30pm

Wednesday 9 July – Bowthorpe Ward
Outside Roys of Bowthorpe, Wendene, NR5 9HA
11am to 1:30pm

Thursday 10 July – Thorpe Hamlet Ward
St. Matthew’s Church, Telegraph Lane West, NR1 4JA
3:30 to 6pm

Monday 14 July – Wensum Ward
West End Street Gardens, NR2 4NA
3pm to 5:30pm

Tuesday 15 July – Sewell Ward
Sewell Park, St. Clement’s Hill, NR3 4BX
3 to 6pm

Wednesday 16 July – Eaton Ward
Waitrose, Church Lane, NR4 6NU
2 to 4pm

Thursday 17 July – Catton Grove Ward
Catton Grove Community Centre, Jewson Road, NR3 3RQ
11am to 2pm

Saturday 19 July – Mile Cross Ward
The Phoenix Centre, Mile Cross Road, NR3 2LD
11:am to 4pm

Have your say:

Residents can also read more about the proposals and take part in the consultation online at: https://futurenorfolk.com

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: Commitment to the spirit of mutual respect, trust, benefit and support is the driving force behind the development of cooperation between China and Central Asia – expert from Uzbekistan

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Tashkent, June 26 (Xinhua) — The driving force behind the sustainable development of cooperation between China and Central Asian countries is the two sides’ commitment to the spirit of “mutual respect, trust, benefit and support,” Professor Nodira Murodova, head of department at Navoi State University, said in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

According to her, for Uzbekistan these principles are not just diplomatic slogans, but a real basis for a long-term and stable partnership with China, as well as for the entire region. She emphasized that it is on this foundation that strong and trusting interaction between the two countries is built.

Mutual respect, according to N. Murodova, is the basis of deepening Uzbek-Chinese relations. China, as the expert noted, consistently demonstrates respect for the sovereignty, social structure and development strategy of Uzbekistan. “Such a sincere attitude on equal terms allows us to more confidently and independently build external relations, forming a truly equal partnership,” she said.

Particular importance is also attached to mutual trust, which the expert called a guarantee of the strength of cooperation. “Thanks to regular high-level contacts, intergovernmental dialogues and projects implemented in practice, strong political trust has been formed between our countries,” N. Murodova noted. She also added that in such strategic areas as regional security and infrastructure development, Uzbekistan and China maintain close coordination and dialogue.

As for the principle of mutual benefit, the professor emphasized that it is reflected in concrete results. “In key areas such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture and the digital economy, Chinese companies have brought advanced technologies and management experience to Uzbekistan, creating many jobs,” the expert said. China’s participation in the construction of roads, railways and energy facilities, according to her, helps strengthen production chains and accelerates the country’s modernization process.

N. Murodova also particularly noted the importance of mutual support, which is especially evident at critical moments. “Whether it is the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic or today’s efforts on environmental transformation and development of education, Uzbekistan and China always act together. Such support at key moments is a manifestation of the true spirit of a community with a common destiny,” she said.

In conclusion, the professor expressed confidence that, based on the principles of “mutual respect, trust, benefit and support,” cooperation between China and Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan, will continue to deepen and expand, serving the interests of the peoples and strengthening peace, development and cooperation in the broader regional and international context. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Iran opens airspace in eastern part of country

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

TEHRAN, June 26 (Xinhua) — Iran on Wednesday announced the opening of airspace in the eastern part of the country to domestic and foreign flights.

The decision was made following approval from Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization and the completion of a safety assessment given the current circumstances in the country, the country’s Ministry of Roads and Urban Development said in a statement posted on the agency’s website.

The move is aimed at gradually restoring air traffic to pre-conflict levels, ministry spokesman Majid Akhavan said, noting that only flights to and from airports in eastern Iran have resumed.

The country extended the suspension of all domestic and international flights until midday Thursday, he said, citing concerns about the safety of passengers following the recent conflict with Israel.

The agency’s spokesman added that the decision was made “in light of recent events and to ensure the safety of passengers and flights.”

Iran closed its airspace on June 13 after Israel launched airstrikes on Tehran and other areas. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 26, 2025
Global energy CO2 emissions reached record high last year, report says

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Global carbon dioxide emissions from the energy sector hit a record high for the fourth year running last year as fossil fuel use kept rising even as renewable energy reached a record high, the Energy Institute’s annual statistical review of world energy showed on Thursday.

The report’s figures highlight the challenge of trying to wean the world economy off fossil fuels at a time when conflict in Ukraine has redrawn oil and gas flows from Russia and fighting in the Middle East raises concern about security of supplies.

Last year was the hottest year on record, with global temperatures exceeding 1.5 C (34.7 F) above the pre-industrial era for the first time.

The world saw a 2% annual rise in total energy supply in 2024, with all sources of energy such as oil, gas, coal, nuclear, hydro and renewable energy registering increases, which last occurred in 2006, the report said.

This led to carbon emissions increasing by around 1% in 2024 and exceeding the record level set the previous year at 40.8 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Of all the global fossil fuels, natural gas saw the biggest increase in generation, growing 2.5%. Meanwhile, coal grew by 1.2% to remain the largest source of generation globally, while oil growth was under 1%.

Wind and solar energy expanded by 16% in 2024, nine times faster than total energy demand, the report showed.

Industry body the Energy Institute, which comprises energy professionals across levels, together with consultancies KPMG and Kearney, took over from BP (BP.L), opens new tab last year to author the report.

Analysts tracking progress have said the world is not on course to meet a global goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030 despite record amounts being added.

“Last year was another turning point for global energy, driven by rising geopolitical tensions,” Romain Debarre of consultancy Kearney, one of the authors of the report, said in a release.

“COP28 set out a bold vision to triple global renewables by 2030, but progress is proving uneven and despite the rapid growth we have seen globally we are still not at the pace required,” said Wafa Jafri, a partner at KPMG.

COP28 was the United Nations Climate Change Conference that took place in Dubai in 2023, at which countries signed a pact to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

(Reuters)

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Gawler South

Source: New South Wales – News

Police and emergency services are currently at the scene of serious crash where a pedestrian has been struck by a car on Thirteenth Street at Gawler South.

Major Crash investigators and Barossa detectives are making their way to the scene.

Thirteenth Street is closed to all traffic between Fourteenth Street and Sixteenth Street. Please avoid the area.

MIL OSI News –

June 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – Tritax Big Box REIT plc

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FORM 8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Full name of discloser:	Man Group PLC
(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree	Tritax Big Box REIT plc
(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure	25/06/2024
(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”	YES / NO / N/A OFFEREE: *Warehouse REIT plc*

2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

Class of relevant security:	1p ordinary
	Interests		Short positions
	Number	%	Number	%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:	24,031,369	0.97
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:	14,655,334	0.59
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:	38,686,703	1.56

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security

Purchase/sale

Number of securities

Price per unit

(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions

Class of relevant security

Product description
e.g. CFD

Nature of dealing
e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position

Number of reference securities

Price per unit

(c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security

Product description e.g. call option

Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc.

Number of securities to which option relates

Exercise price per unit

Type
e.g. American, European etc.

Expiry date

Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii) Exercise

Class of relevant security

Product description
e.g. call option

Exercising/ exercised against

Number of securities

Exercise price per unit

(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security

Nature of dealing
e.g. subscription, conversion

Details

Price per unit (if applicable)

4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

None

(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

None

(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?

Date of disclosure:	26/06/2024
Contact name:	Matthew Irwin
Telephone number:	+442071447255

Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

The MIL Network –

June 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: Inception Growth Acquisition Limited Announces Postponement of the Special Meeting to July 14, 2025 and Extension of Redemption Request Deadline

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Inception Growth Acquisition Limited (the “Company”), a blank check company, today announced that its previously announced special meeting of shareholders (the “Special Meeting”) will be postponed from 10:00 a.m. Hong Kong Time on July 1, 2025 to 10:00 a.m. Hong Kong Time on July 14, 2025 to provide stockholders with additional time to review the supplement (the “Supplement”) to the definitive proxy statement (the “Original Proxy Statement”), which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on June 25, 2025. The Supplement corrects, among other things, the per share redemption price from $13.18 to $12.09, provides updates regarding the Company’s annual meeting held on June 5, 2025, and extends the deadline for stockholders to submit redemption requests.

There is no change to the location, the record date or any of the other proposals to be acted upon at the Special Meeting. The physical location of the Special Meeting remains at the offices of Loeb & Loeb LLP, 2206-19 Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place Central, Hong Kong SAR, and virtually via teleconference using the following dial-in information:

US Toll Free +1 866 213 0992

Hong Kong Toll +852 2112 1888

Participant Passcode 2910077#

The Special Meeting is being held for the purpose of considering and voting on, among other proposals, proposals to approve the Company’s proposed business combination with AgileAlgo Holdings Ltd.

The record date for determining the Company stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting remains the close of business on May 27, 2025 (the “Record Date”). Stockholders as of the Record Date are eligible to vote, even if they have subsequently sold their shares. Stockholders who have already submitted their proxies or voted and do not wish to change their vote need not take any further action. All previously cast votes associated with the Special Meeting remain valid for the Special Meeting, unless revoked as described in the Original Proxy Statement or the Supplement. Stockholders who have not yet voted are urged to submit their votes promptly.

As a result of the postponement, the deadline for delivery of redemption requests from the Company’s stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination has been extended from June 27, 2025 (two business days before the originally scheduled Special Meeting) to July 10, 2025 (two business days before the postponed Special Meeting). Stockholders who have already submitted redemption requests may revoke such requests prior to the new deadline in accordance with the procedures described in the Original Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on May 27, 2025, and the Supplement.

If you have questions regarding the certification of your position or delivery of your shares, please contact:

Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC
1 State Street 30th Floor
New York, NY 10004-1561
E-mail: spacredemptions@continentalstock.com

Stockholders are advised to review the Supplement carefully and to consider it together with the Original Proxy Statement, both available on the SEC’s EDGAR database at www.sec.gov, for complete details regarding the postponement, the corrected redemption price, the updated redemption deadline, and other corrected and updated information.

The Company’s stockholders who have questions regarding the postponement, the Special Meeting, or would like to request documents may contact the Company’s proxy solicitor, Advantage Proxy, Inc., at (877) 870-8565, or banks and brokers can call (206) 870-8565, or by email at ksmith@advantageproxy.com.

About Inception Growth Acquisition Limited

Inception Growth Acquisition Limited is a blank check company incorporated under the laws of Delaware whose business purpose is to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the date of the Special Meeting, are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

On May 27, 2025, the Company filed the Original Proxy Statement with the SEC in connection with its solicitation of proxies for the Special Meeting. On June 26, 2025, the Company filed the Supplement to provide information about, among other things, the postponement of the Special Meeting, the extension of redemption request deadline, and the corrected per share redemption price. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF THE COMPANY ARE URGED TO READ THE SUPPLEMENT, THE ORIGINAL PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND OTHER DOCUMENTS THE COMPANY FILES WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the definitive proxy statement (including any amendments or supplements thereto) and other documents filed with the SEC through the web site maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by contacting the Company’s proxy solicitor.

Participants in the Solicitation

The Company and its respective directors and officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from shareholders in connection with the Special Meeting. Additional information regarding the identity of these potential participants and their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is set forth in the definitive proxy statement. You may obtain free copies of these documents using the sources indicated above.

Contact

Inception Growth Acquisition Limited
Investor Relationship Department
(315) 636-6638

The MIL Network –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Motorists called to exercise caution amid adverse weather conditions
Source: South Africa News Agency

Thursday, June 26, 2025
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged motorists to take extra caution due to the adverse weather conditions in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and the Northern Cape.

Earlier this week, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned a cold front would make landfall on Wednesday.

“Wet and slippery roads may result in dangerous driving conditions. Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. Heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape [is expected], especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday (25 – 26 June 2025).

“Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape,” SAWS said earlier this week.

Motorists have been advised to follow these road safety precautions when driving in wet and icy conditions:
- Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
- Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
- Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
- Keep your lights and windshield clean.
- Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
- Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
- Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently travelled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
- Don’t pass snow ploughs and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you’re likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
- Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads. – SAnews.gov.za
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MIL OSI Africa –
June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Climate change takes centre stage at G20 Sherpa meeting

Source: South Africa News Agency

South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency is placing climate resilience and the Just Energy Transition (JET) at the heart of its global agenda, highlighting the escalating environmental challenges facing developing nations.

In an interview with the media, South Africa’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Mathu Joyini, empha
sised the critical importance of disaster resilience, using recent national experiences as a stark illustration of global climate vulnerabilities.

“If you look at the flooding that happened in the Eastern Cape a few weeks ago, it exactly shows the relevance of the G20 discussions to our national situation. You can extrapolate it into a country, in the African continent, or the developing south, you do realise that there is no ready capacity or enough resources to deal with disaster resilience,“ he said.

“I mean, if you look at KwaZulu-Natal, for example, it’s almost like we are expecting a natural disaster, climate-related, weather-related disaster to come.”

According to recent reports, the death toll in the Mthatha, Eastern Cape floods, now stands at 101, as rescue operations are continuing.

While specific commitments were not detailed, he said the talks signalled a growing recognition that climate action requires a fundamental reimagining of global economic and environmental policies.

The G20 Sherpa meeting, which kicked off yesterday, underscored a fundamental shift in approach, recognising that climate change is no longer a future threat but a present reality, particularly for developing countries.

The third Sherpa meeting of the G20 kicked off on Wednesday at the Sun City Resort, focusing on global collaboration, sustainable development, and addressing new international challenges.

Joyini told journalists that South Africa’s Presidency is pushing for a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond traditional environmental discussions, integrating climate action with economic development.

Meanwhile, the Ambassador stated that critical minerals have emerged as a key focal point, with the delegation advocating for a transformative approach to resource extraction.

“We want to stop the old model of exporting raw materials,” he said.

“Our goal is to ensure African countries can benefit from the minerals crucial to green energy transitions, particularly for electric vehicles and renewable technologies.”

The attendees also highlighted the JET as a priority, reflecting a nuanced approach that balances environmental protection with economic development.

This strategy, he said, aims to create sustainable pathways for countries in the Global South to address climate challenges while maintaining economic growth.

The meeting also addressed the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations, with discussions focusing on how the G20 – representing 85% of global gross domestic product (GDP) – can provide meaningful support to the most vulnerable regions. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: City of Cape Town urges caution amid heavy rainfall

Source: South Africa News Agency

Thursday, June 26, 2025

The City of Cape Town has called on motorists to exercise extreme caution and avoid driving through flooded areas and low-water crossings, as heavy rainfall continues to affect multiple parts of the city.

The warning comes amid ongoing downpours that have led to the temporary flooding of low-lying areas.

City’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas, said the sheer volume of ongoing rainfall has caused vleis, rivers and canals to reach capacity.

“This causes water to back up in the stormwater system and onto our roads which then act as water conduits. Low-lying areas, [including] areas below steep mountainous terrain and areas near canals and other water bodies, will experience localised flooding, whilst rainfall remains heavy,” Quintas said.

Quintas warned that roads may be closed at short notice in the interest of public safety and security. He said downpours are expected to continue throughout the day and assessments on the ground are ongoing, as reports come in.

“Most residents would have noticed that flooding of roads usually subsides within less than an hour after the rain has stopped and our stormwater infrastructure has had the opportunity to deal with the large volumes of water that entered the system,” the MMC said.

The City’s Transport Information Centre (TIC) is currently handling a high volume of calls, with residents reporting flooded roads and mudslides due to adverse weather conditions.

The City’s Urban Mobility Directorate continues to monitor the situation and will carry out further assessments once the rainfall subsides.

Residents and road users are urged to report persistent flooding, especially where water remains on roadways with no signs of drainage, by contacting the city on 0800656463, email transport.info@capetown.gov.za, or SMS 31373 (no more than 160 characters). – SAnews.gov.za

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MIL OSI Africa –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cases of Salmonella and Campylobacter highest in a decade
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Cases of Salmonella and Campylobacter highest in a decade

Both Campylobacter and Salmonella cases show a 17.1% increase from 2023 to 2024.
The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) annual data shows a significant rise in Campylobacter and Salmonella infections in England compared to the previous year. UKHSA is reminding people to take precautionary measures against catching these bacteria, which are common causes of food poisoning. Young children, elderly adults and those with weakened immune systems should take extra care as they are at higher risk of developing severe illness. 

Campylobacter cases have increased by 17.1% from 60,055 in 2023 to 70,352 in 2024, reaching 121.9 reports per 100,000 population. This represents the highest number of cases recorded in the past decade. Adults aged 50 to 79 years account for 44% of all reports. Similarly, Salmonella infections reached a decade high, with a 17.1% increase from 2023, rising from 8,872 cases in 2023 to 10,388 cases in 2024. Children under 10 years old were particularly affected, accounting for 21.5% of cases. 

Campylobacter and Salmonella infections are usually caught by eating contaminated food, including poultry, meat, eggs, raw fruit or vegetables, and unpasteurised milk products. Infection may also occur through close contact with people with the infection – particularly in household settings – and by cross-contamination in the kitchen, for example when utensils are used for both cooked and uncooked foods. 

UKHSA and Food Standard Agency (FSA) experts are investigating further with partner agencies to understand the reasons behind this increase in Salmonella and Campylobacter cases.

Cases of the parasite Cryptosporidium decreased by 16.4% compared to 2023, with 5,708 cases reported in 2024, although this was the second highest number of cases reported in the past decade. The number of infections in April 2024 were unusually high, associated with large outbreaks linked to lambing events and petting farm venues, and an outbreak in South Devon associated with mains water.

The 2023 data for Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) shows a slight decrease of 2.2% compared to 2022 overall. The higher rate in 2022 was likely explained by a large STEC O157 outbreak. In 2023, even if the overall number of STEC cases decreased slightly, the number of STEC non-O157 cases increased by 14% (from 1,988 cases in 2022 to 2,260 cases in 2023). This was likely attributable to an increase in the number of diagnostic laboratories using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in recent years, which lead to a significant increase in the detection of non-O157 STEC in England.

Both Cryptosporidium and STEC can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with animals or their environments, contact with faeces (such as, during nappy changing), consumption or handling of contaminated food or water, and person-to-person contact. 

All these gastrointestinal infections can cause similar symptoms, including diarrhoea (sometimes bloody), stomach pains and cramps, vomiting and mild fever. Whilst most people recover within one to two weeks of infection, young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of developing serious illness or complications. In severe cases, STEC can cause haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition primarily affecting the kidneys. 

Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director, Gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA said: 

Our extensive surveillance is showing high levels of gastrointestinal infections in England. We continue to work closely with partners to detect, investigate and halt the spread of infections.

These infections spread in many ways, including through contaminated food or water, contact with an infected person as well as contact with an infected animal or their environment. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet or handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals or farms can prevent infections. Additionally, anyone experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting should avoid handling or preparing food for others. Do not return to work, and children should not attend school or nursery, until at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided.

Dr James Cooper, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the FSA, said: 

Public safety is our highest priority. The FSA works closely with UKHSA and other partners to monitor and assess the latest foodborne disease data. We are working together to understand the reasons behind the rise in Campylobacter and Salmonella cases, as well as trends in other pathogens. This analysis will help us take the necessary action to protect public health.

We’ve launched a new campaign to help people stay safe – find out more on food.gov.uk. We’re also working with industry and local authorities to support businesses to meet their legal responsibility to make sure food is safe. Consumers can further protect themselves by checking Food Hygiene Ratings on food.gov.uk.

When preparing food at home, people can reduce their risk of food poisoning by following good hygiene practices and by following advice on the 4Cs of food hygiene: chilling, cleaning, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination.

Following good food hygiene and the 4Cs when preparing food can help protect you and others from food poisoning:

cook food correctly by following the guidance on time and temperature on product labels

chill your food below 5 degrees, this will stop or significantly slow the growth of bacteria

clean food equipment and surfaces thoroughly, this helps to stop harmful bacteria and viruses from spreading onto food

avoid cross-contamination which might lead to bacteria passing from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods via things like re-usable shopping bags, knives and chopping boards, cloths and work surfaces

use food and drink by the ‘use by’ date on the label, even if it looks and smells fine – eating food after this date could put your health at risk as you can not smell or taste bacteria which make you ill

good personal hygiene is essential when you’re preparing food, this will help ensure that bacteria you may have come into contact with isn’t passed to your friends, family and neighbours in their food

 For more details, please visit: Food Standards Agency: Food safety and hygiene at home .

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Published 26 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The future of secure care

Source: Scottish Government

£4.1 million to help restore capacity.

Funding of over £4 million to establish new secure care houses has been announced by the Scottish Government.

The funding will allow for restored capacity and enable a different approach to be developed to ensure children with the greatest need are able to access intensive support. Additionally, this investment will support the creation of three four-bed secure houses, as well as a further four-bed contingency resource.

There are currently 82 contracted secure places provided by four independent charitable organisations in Scotland – Rossie, Good Shepherd Centre, Kibble and St. Mary’s Kenmure.

Children’s Minister Natalie Don-Innes said:

“It is imperative that we continuously improve how we care for those children who have the greatest need of support. We also need to address the challenges currently facing the secure care system, and this funding will ensure that both these aims can be met.

“Scotland is rightly proud of our unique, welfare based and focused approach to care and justice for children and young people. We want to build on that tradition and the current strengths of the system, while embracing a future vision for change as set out in the ‘Reimagining Secure Care’ report. And with that change, it is important that we maintain a resolute focus in ensuring that children and young people’s needs and rights remain at the heart of this process.”

Background

This follows the publication of the Children and Young People’s Centre for Justice’s (CYCJ) report on ‘Reimagining Secure Care’ which outlines a transformative vision for the future of secure care, and broader children’s care, in Scotland. The Scottish Government has responded to this report.

More than 18% of the contracted beds are not available from the independent charities offering them. This is due to various factors, including reduced capacity at St Mary’s Kenmure, the complexity of individual children’s needs which requires additional staffing and an increase in the average length of stay for those children sentence and remanded to secure care.

The Scottish Government has increased the number of available beds in secure care by four since April 2025 to support restoring capacity. This funding will further strengthen capacity for the future.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leia swaps scrubs for sails to support Tall Ships Locum Emergency Medicine consultant Dr Leia Kane will be part of a crack team of medics on stand-by to deal with any mishaps involving the 400,000 plus visitors attending this summer’s Tall Ships Races Aberdeen.

Source: University of Aberdeen

On top of her day job with NHS Grampian and undertaking a PhD at the University looking at stress and recovery in doctors, Leia (right) works with Enhanced Care Services, a leading provider of event medical services at events across the UK

Locum Emergency Medicine consultant Dr Leia Kane will be part of a crack team of medics on stand-by to deal with any mishaps involving the 400,000 plus visitors attending this summer’s Tall Ships Races Aberdeen.
On top of her day job with NHS Grampian and undertaking a PhD at the University looking at stress and recovery in doctors, Leia works with Enhanced Care Services, a leading provider of event medical services which provides medical and first aid staff at a wide range of events across the UK.
She will be part of the team manning a quayside field hospital during the Tall Ships, offering on-site medical assistance for everything from cuts and blisters through to resuscitation and critical care.
“We’ve provided support at all sorts of events, from Wimbledon to the Hackney Half Marathon,” explained Leia. “The team includes senior doctors, emergency medicine nurses, paramedics and many other health care professionals from all over the country – people who offer the skills they have in their day jobs to help at big public events.
“We only work together like this for maybe half a dozen days across the year but everyone is a specialist in what they do and, once we’re on an event site together, the professional bonds kick in and we’re absolutely ready for anything.”

We only work together like this for maybe half a dozen days across the year but everyone is a specialist in what they do and, once we’re on an event site together, the professional bonds kick in and we’re absolutely ready for anything.” Locum emergency medicine consultant Dr Leia Kane

With more than 400,000 visitors expected to attend the events across its duration, organisers are expecting an additional requirement for medical care across the local population and are prepped to deal with all eventualities.
“Different events come with different requirements but we are equipped to deal with almost anything,” added Leia. “The Half Marathon saw us dealing with a lot of people who were struggling with the warm weather, they were over-heating and collapsing.
“Ironman Wales in comparison was totally different, with lots of people in the water or experiencing bike crashes. From a professional perspective, it’s an opportunity to test out different skills while remaining on alert to deal with the unexpected.
“Should we need to, we also have dedicated pathways to get people to the right place within the NHS Grampian system without delay.”
While technically on duty, Leia and her teammates still hope to be able to enjoy being part of the once in a generation event for the city: “The Tall Ships is an incredible event and I can’t wait to be part of it. The buzz of all these people coming to Aberdeen just to have a really good time is fantastic. There’ll be so much going on and we’ll be there for the full four days so I’m looking forward to soaking up the atmosphere.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rodney navigates the unknown by charting Tall Ships carbon footprint A student intern is making waves in the maritime sustainability sector by helping calculate the carbon footprint of the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen.

Source: University of Aberdeen

It is believed that the project might mark the first ever carbon footprint report for a Tall Ships event, and the output by the team could even set the benchmark for future events.

A student intern is making waves in the maritime sustainability sector by helping calculate the carbon footprint of the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen.
MSc Sustainability Transitions student Rodney Ekow Keelson is part of a team tasked with figuring out the impact of the Tall Ships Races when the event sails into Aberdeen in July.
Working with the Tall Ships team, the 23-year-old is currently assessing different methods of gathering data to determine which will deliver the greatest depth of results.
“The challenge lies in determining the most effective way to gather a large volume of data during the event setup, throughout the four days of the Tall Ships event, and during the post-event breakdown.
“We need to take a range of factors into account, including energy consumption, ship emissions, and the impact of quayside concerts. The most complex and potentially most significant area is understanding how people will travel to the event. We will also need to carefully assess which data we can feasibly collect within the limited time available.
“Visitors will be making their way to Aberdeen from neighbouring towns, cities and further afield in cars, buses, trains, planes – and ships.
“A lot of work will go into evaluating the best channels for us to get the information we need.”

I’ve never been involved in anything like the Tall Ships or an event of this scale but carbon accounting is a really interesting field and this is great experience.” MSc Sustainability Transitions student Rodney Ekow Keelson

Rodney is currently on the MSc Sustainability Transitions programme, designed to train the future generation of innovators and thinkers who have the passion and ambition to deliver on the UN Sustainable Development Goals and become true sustainability leaders which the world needs.
It is believed that the project might mark the first ever carbon footprint report for a Tall Ships event, and the output by the team could even set the benchmark for future events.
“Aberdeen has lots of pioneering green projects and the city’s port wants to become the UK’s first net zero port by 2040. This project really demonstrates the city’s commitment to sustainability and I’m excited to be part of it,” added Rodney, who studied Economics as an undergraduate.
“I’ve never been involved in anything like the Tall Ships or an event of this scale but carbon accounting is a really interesting field and this is great experience.”
Dr Piotr Niewiadomski, Senior Lecturer in Human Geography and MSc Sustainability Transitions Programme Director, said: “I’m truly delighted that one of our MSc Sustainability Transitions students has a chance to work with the Tall Ships team and make an important contribution to such a challenging task. Not only does it reflect Rodney’s individual ambitions and capabilities, but it also demonstrates the value of our MSc degree which trains future sustainability experts who will be in a position to lead the sustainability and net zero agenda in many different sectors.”
The project will run until September 2025.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pupils and council join forces for nature on lough shore

Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

Pupils from St Mary’s PS pictured at their environmental survey.

The shores of Lough Neagh have proven to be the perfect location for local school pupils determined to make a positive impact on their environment and wildlife, with the help of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council.

Butterflies, wildflowers and a Great Crested Grebe were just some of the wonderful flora and fauna spotted and recorded by the pupils of St Mary’s Primary School in Maghery.

As part of their project to promote and protect biodiversity, the children have been helping to manage a wild meadow at Maghery Country Park.

Pupils and staff from St Mary’s PS Maghery pictured with officers from ABC Council at their environmental survey.

The school adopted an area of wet grassland in Maghery Country Park which frequently flooded and was difficult for the Council’s Ground Maintenance team to manage. Under the supervision of the Biodiversity Team at Oxford Island the project was agreed.

The council agreed not to cut the grass area until the end of September allowing native wildflowers to grow and set seed. To assess the impact of their project, the school joined council officers last week, to carry out a survey of the range of native wildflowers growing in the uncut wet grassland, and a butterfly walk to count and identify species.

The pupils who enjoyed a boat trip, also carried out a successful bird survey, when they spotted a range of species including Grey Heron, Coot, Great Crested Grebe, Mute Swan, Swallow, Mallard and Tufted duck.

Council officers have praised the work of the pupils who had also participated in a Himalayan Balsam Bash to remove the non-native Himalayan Balsam invasive species which competes with the local wildflowers vital for pollinators.

To find out more about environmental education programmes at Oxford Island, including an exciting summer programme of environmental activities for children, please visit – www.getactiveabc.com/facility/oxfordisland/

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Meeting of SCO Defense Ministers Held in Qingdao

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

QINGDAO, June 26 (Xinhua) — A meeting of defense ministers of member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was held in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, on Thursday.

Speaking at the event, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun noted that in the context of chaotic changes and intertwining in the international situation, the SCO needs to play the role of a stabilizing anchor.

He said China is willing to work with other member states of the organization to uphold the original purpose of the SCO and carry forward the “Shanghai Spirit”, firmly safeguard international fairness and justice, jointly respond to security challenges, and promote the stable and long-term development of defense cooperation, so as to provide more resolute support for the building of a common home of solidarity and mutual trust, peace and tranquility, prosperity and development, good-neighborliness, fairness and justice.

At the meeting, the two sides unanimously agreed that they should continue to strengthen strategic coordination, develop pragmatic cooperation, and jointly maintain regional peace and stability. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: Beam Global and Platinum Group UAE Sign Joint Venture Agreement Creating Beam Middle East LLC

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN DIEGO, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beam Global, (Nasdaq: BEEM), a leading provider of innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions for the electrification of transportation and energy security, today announced that it has entered into a joint venture agreement with the Platinum Group LLC, based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Chaired by His Royal Highness, Sheikh Mohammed Sultan Bin Khalifa Al-Nahyan, the Platinum Group UAE is recognized for its well-established and trusted relationships across government and industry.

Beam Global and the Platinum Group will form a new entity, Beam Middle East LLC, which will sell and manufacture Beam Global’s patented sustainable infrastructure solutions for transportation electrification, energy storage, energy security, and smart city development across the Middle East and African regions. This joint venture supports Beam Global’s strategy of geographic diversification by opening new markets and creating opportunities for revenue growth outside the United States. Beam Global, Beam Europe, and now Beam Middle East will each sell and manufacture the company’s full portfolio of patented sustainable technology solutions.

“The Platinum Group is an organization of the highest reputation, influence and relationships in Abu Dhabi and the surrounding region. They are a perfect partner to accelerate Beam Global’s growth in the Middle East and Africa,” said Desmond Wheatley, CEO of Beam Global. “With planned spending on sustainable infrastructure in the region projected to reach $75.6 billion by 2030, we believe that Beam Global’s patented technology combined with Platinum’s unrivalled position should create a platform for growth which we are uniquely able to leverage. Platinum’s relationships with the best companies in the region and their government contacts, including at the highest level in the UAE and with entities like Masdar City, will allow Beam Middle East to secure direct audiences with top decision makers. Our technology is ideal for the region’s current and future plans, but this is a region where relationships matter just as much as products and solutions. That is why our joint venture with Platinum is so ideal – Beam’s tried and tested clean-technology solutions and Platinum’s influence and relationships form a combination that ticks all the boxes and is without rivals.”

“The Platinum Group seeks out the highest quality, most timely and relevant companies in each of the industries we target. Beam Global’s unique and patented products are ideally suited to provide value to governments and businesses, as the Gulf region and beyond transitions to clean and sustainable technologies,” said Dr Ali Nasser Sultan Al Yahbouni Al Daheri, CEO of Platinum Group. “We are looking forward to ensuring that our new joint venture with Beam Global, forming Beam Middle East, is a highly successful enterprise with wins in the Middle East and increasingly in Africa. With abundant sunshine and fast-growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), renewables, and energy storage, the region is perfect for Beam Global’s solutions. Energy security and Smart Cities solutions like those offered by Beam Middle East are at the forefront of government planning. Our timing is right, and our partnership is formed on mutual benefit from growth and success. We are delighted to have Beam Global as part of our growing family of businesses.”

Middle East Market Overview Across Five Key Markets: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan

The number of EVs in the region is projected to grow from approximately 69.0 thousand in 2024 to approximately 1.5 million by 2030 (Table 1), representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 66.6%.
Assuming a 5.0% share of regional chargers using EV ARC™ units, the addressable revenue could reach $516.5 million by 2030.
If eBikes account for just 5.0% of total EV volume and follow the same growth trajectory (Table 2), BeamBike™ units could represent a $245.0 million revenue opportunity in the region by 2030.

Middle East Market Overview: Abu Dhabi Case Study

The UAE eBike market is projected to reach $443.8 million by 2030. Assuming 15.0% of that spend goes toward charging infrastructure, and that Abu Dhabi accounts for 35.0% of the national market based on population, the addressable eBike charger market for BeamBike™ in Abu Dhabi is approximately $23.3 million.
A streetlight-to-population ratio based on New York City, applied to Abu Dhabi’s estimated 3.8 million residents (Table 3), suggests BeamSpot™ units could represent a potential revenue opportunity of approximately $322.1 million assuming a market penetration of 5.0%.
Using Abu Dhabi’s population and a comparable U.S. Police motorcycle fleet ratio (Table 4), the opportunity to electrify local law enforcement fleets with BeamPatrol™ units is estimated at approximately $2.4 million.
With over 5.8 million annual hotel guests, Abu Dhabi also offers a strong use case for BeamSkoot™ at resorts, both for logistics and recreational purposes. Assuming adoption rates of 10.0% (Table 5), the potential revenue opportunity for BeamSkoot™ units could reach approximately $10.0 million.

The above scenarios are estimates only, based upon market data taken from internet resources. Beam Global believes these case studies can be replicated in other markets across the Middle East and Africa.

Key Terms of the Agreement
Beam Middle East LLC will be a 50/50 joint venture between Beam Global and Platinum Group UAE, incorporated in Abu Dhabi. Beam Global will license its proprietary technologies to the joint venture and support it with incoming opportunities, training, marketing materials, and procurement assistance. Platinum Group will leverage its existing relationships at the highest levels, coordinate local sales, provide experienced and influential business development professionals, and establish manufacturing capabilities efficiently and inexpensively. Both parties will collaborate on the development of a regional manufacturing facility for the products. Beam Middle East will be headquartered in Masdar City, a pioneering sustainable urban community and world-class business and technology hub, where Platinum Group has recently signed an agreement. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, strategically positioned at the center of the country’s drive toward a net-zero future by 2050.

About Platinum Group UAE
Platinum Group UAE is a diversified, multi-billion-dollar conglomerate operating in energy, real estate, finance and investing, healthcare, information technology, sports and entertainment, food services and legal services in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Chaired by His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed Sultan Bin Khalifa Al-Nahyan, son of the former ruler of Abu Dhabi, the Group is recognized for its well-established and trusted relationships across government and industry. Platinum Group UAE is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, with offices in Dubai and Sharjah. For more information visit, PlatinumGroupUAE.com.

About Beam Global
Beam Global is a clean technology innovator which develops and manufactures sustainable infrastructure products and technologies. We operate at the nexus of clean energy and transportation with a focus on sustainable energy infrastructure, rapidly deployed and scalable EV charging solutions, safe energy storage and vital energy security. With operations in the U.S. and Europe, Beam Global develops, patents, designs, engineers and manufactures unique and advanced clean technology solutions that power transportation, provide secure sources of electricity, save time and money and protect the environment. Beam Global is headquartered in San Diego, CA with facilities in Broadview, IL and Belgrade and Kraljevo, Serbia. Beam Global is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol BEEM. For more information visit, BeamForAll.com, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “potential,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “may,” or similar expressions. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expected benefits, market potential, and future operations of Beam Middle East LLC; anticipated revenue opportunities in the Middle East and African regions; projections regarding electric vehicle and infrastructure market growth; and strategic goals and international expansion plans of Beam Global.

These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and expectations that are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the statements. Factors that may cause such differences include, among others, risks associated with entering new markets and joint ventures, including regulatory and operational challenges; risks relating to the adoption of EV technologies and infrastructure in foreign jurisdictions; the ability to develop and scale manufacturing capabilities in the region; the effectiveness of partnerships; and general economic, political, and business conditions in the Middle East and Africa. Additional risks and uncertainties are detailed in Beam Global’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

Beam Global disclaims any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Media Contact
Andy Lovsted
+1 858-327-9123
Press@BeamForAll.com

Investor Relations
Luke Higgins
+1 858-261-7646
IR@BeamForAll.com

Appendix 1 – Sources for Middle East Market Overview Sections

Table 1 – Projected Growth of EV Adoption in the Middle East

	Number of EVs in 2024	Number of EVs in 2030
Countries:
UAE	28,000	42,000
Saudi Arabia	23,170	1,300,000
Qatar	5,624	75,167
Oman	2,200	13,500
Jordan	10,000	45,000

Total Number of EVs:	68,994	1,475,667

Table 2 – Projected Growth of eBike Adoption in the Middle East Assuming 5% EV Market Share

	Number of eBikes in 2024	Number of eBikes in 2030
Countries:
UAE	1,400	2,100
Saudi Arabia	1,159	50,000
Qatar	281	3,758
Oman	110	675
Jordan	500	2,250

Total Number of eBikes:	3,450	58,783

Table 3 – Estimated Number of Streetlights in Abu Dhabi Based on New York City’s Streetlight-to-Population Ratio

Population of NYC	8,258,000
Number of Street Lights	400,000
Number of Street Lights per Person	21
Population of Abu Dhabi	3,800,000
Number of Street Lights approx.	180,952

Table 4 – Estimated Size of Abu Dhabi Police Motorcycle Fleet Based on a Comparable U.S. Ratio

Population of NYC	8,258,000
Number of Police Motorcycles	115
Number of People per Motorcycle	71,809
Population of Abu Dhabi	3,800,000
No. of Police Motorcycles approx.	53

Table 5 – Estimated eScooter Demand in Abu Dhabi Based on Annual Number of Hotel Guests

No. Hotel Guests in Abu Dhabi Annually:	5,811,000

Scenario:
Number of Tourists Renting Annually (10%)	581,100
Rentals per day	1,592
Average Rentals per Scooter per Day	4
eScooters Required	398

The MIL Network –

June 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: Beam Global and Platinum Group UAE Sign Joint Venture Agreement Creating Beam Middle East LLC

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Middle East Market Overview Across Five Key Markets: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan

The number of EVs in the region is projected to grow from approximately 69.0 thousand in 2024 to approximately 1.5 million by 2030 (Table 1), representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 66.6%.
Assuming a 5.0% share of regional chargers using EV ARC™ units, the addressable revenue could reach $516.5 million by 2030.
If eBikes account for just 5.0% of total EV volume and follow the same growth trajectory (Table 2), BeamBike™ units could represent a $245.0 million revenue opportunity in the region by 2030.

Middle East Market Overview: Abu Dhabi Case Study

The UAE eBike market is projected to reach $443.8 million by 2030. Assuming 15.0% of that spend goes toward charging infrastructure, and that Abu Dhabi accounts for 35.0% of the national market based on population, the addressable eBike charger market for BeamBike™ in Abu Dhabi is approximately $23.3 million.
A streetlight-to-population ratio based on New York City, applied to Abu Dhabi’s estimated 3.8 million residents (Table 3), suggests BeamSpot™ units could represent a potential revenue opportunity of approximately $322.1 million assuming a market penetration of 5.0%.
Using Abu Dhabi’s population and a comparable U.S. Police motorcycle fleet ratio (Table 4), the opportunity to electrify local law enforcement fleets with BeamPatrol™ units is estimated at approximately $2.4 million.
With over 5.8 million annual hotel guests, Abu Dhabi also offers a strong use case for BeamSkoot™ at resorts, both for logistics and recreational purposes. Assuming adoption rates of 10.0% (Table 5), the potential revenue opportunity for BeamSkoot™ units could reach approximately $10.0 million.

Beam Global disclaims any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Media Contact
Andy Lovsted
+1 858-327-9123
Press@BeamForAll.com

Investor Relations
Luke Higgins
+1 858-261-7646
IR@BeamForAll.com

Appendix 1 – Sources for Middle East Market Overview Sections

Table 1 – Projected Growth of EV Adoption in the Middle East

	Number of EVs in 2024	Number of EVs in 2030
Countries:
UAE	28,000	42,000
Saudi Arabia	23,170	1,300,000
Qatar	5,624	75,167
Oman	2,200	13,500
Jordan	10,000	45,000

Total Number of EVs:	68,994	1,475,667

Table 2 – Projected Growth of eBike Adoption in the Middle East Assuming 5% EV Market Share

	Number of eBikes in 2024	Number of eBikes in 2030
Countries:
UAE	1,400	2,100
Saudi Arabia	1,159	50,000
Qatar	281	3,758
Oman	110	675
Jordan	500	2,250

Total Number of eBikes:	3,450	58,783

Table 3 – Estimated Number of Streetlights in Abu Dhabi Based on New York City’s Streetlight-to-Population Ratio

Population of NYC	8,258,000
Number of Street Lights	400,000
Number of Street Lights per Person	21
Population of Abu Dhabi	3,800,000
Number of Street Lights approx.	180,952

Table 4 – Estimated Size of Abu Dhabi Police Motorcycle Fleet Based on a Comparable U.S. Ratio

Population of NYC	8,258,000
Number of Police Motorcycles	115
Number of People per Motorcycle	71,809
Population of Abu Dhabi	3,800,000
No. of Police Motorcycles approx.	53

Table 5 – Estimated eScooter Demand in Abu Dhabi Based on Annual Number of Hotel Guests

No. Hotel Guests in Abu Dhabi Annually:	5,811,000

Scenario:
Number of Tourists Renting Annually (10%)	581,100
Rentals per day	1,592
Average Rentals per Scooter per Day	4
eScooters Required	398

The MIL Network –

June 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: RBC iShares Expands iShares Core Offering with Launch of New ETF

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, RBC iShares expands its iShares Core exchange traded fund (ETF) lineup with the launch of the iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF (CAD-Hedged) (the ‘iShares Fund’).

The iShares Fund will provide investors with broad-based exposure to the total U.S. equity market, covering large-, mid-, small-, and micro-capitalized companies. The iShares Fund is a Canadian dollar-hedged offering and complements the iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF, XTOT, which was launched on June 2, 2025.

The iShares Fund is expected to begin trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) today; the iShares Fund is managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited (“BlackRock Canada”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc (“BlackRock”).

Fund Name Ticker Annual
Management
Fee¹

iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF (CAD-Hedged) XTOH 0.07%²

RBC iShares aims to help clients achieve their investment objectives by empowering them to build efficient portfolios and take control of their financial futures. RBC iShares is committed to delivering a truly differentiated ETF experience and positive outcomes for clients.

For more information about RBC iShares, please visit https://www.rbcishares.com.

About BlackRock

BlackRock’s purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate.

About iShares

iShares unlocks opportunity across markets to meet the evolving needs of investors. With more than twenty years of experience, a global line-up of 1500+ exchange traded funds (ETFs) and US$4.3 trillion in assets under management as of March 31, 2025, iShares continues to drive progress for the financial industry. iShares funds are powered by the expert portfolio and risk management of BlackRock.

iShares® ETFs are managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited.

About RBC
Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 97,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.

About RBC Global Asset Management
RBC Global Asset Management (RBC GAM) is the asset management division of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). RBC GAM is a provider of global investment management services and solutions to institutional, high-net-worth and individual investors through separate accounts, pooled funds, mutual funds, hedge funds, exchange-traded funds and specialty investment strategies. RBC Funds, BlueBay Funds, PH&N Funds and RBC ETFs are offered by RBC Global Asset Management Inc. (RBC GAM Inc.) and distributed through authorized dealers in Canada. The RBC GAM group of companies, which includes RBC GAM Inc. (including PH&N Institutional) manage approximately $693 billion in assets and have approximately 1,600 employees located across Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia.

RBC iShares ETFs are comprised of RBC ETFs managed by RBC Global Asset Management Inc. and iShares ETFs managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investing in ETFs. Please read the relevant prospectus before investing. ETFs are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional.

® / TM Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. iSHARES is a registered trademark of BlackRock, Inc., or its subsidiaries in the United States and elsewhere. Used under license. © 2025 BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited and RBC Global Asset Management Inc. All rights reserved.

Contact for Media:
Sydney Punchard
Email: Sydney.Punchard@blackrock.com

_______________________

¹ As an annualized percentage of the iShares Fund’s daily net asset value.
² If applicable, BlackRock Canada or an affiliate is entitled to receive a fee for acting as manager of each iShares ETF in which this iShares Fund may invest (an “underlying product fee” and together with the management fee payable to BlackRock Canada, the “total annual fee”). As the underlying product fees are embedded in the market value of the iShares ETFs in which this iShares Fund may invest, any underlying product fees are borne indirectly by this iShares Fund. BlackRock Canada will adjust the management fee payable to it by this iShares Fund to ensure that the total annual fees paid directly or indirectly to BlackRock Canada and its affiliates by this iShares Fund will not exceed the percentage of the NAV set out above. The total annual fee is exclusive of HST. Any underlying product fees borne indirectly by this iShares Fund are calculated and accrued daily and are paid not less than annually.

The MIL Network –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: RBC iShares Expands iShares Core Offering with Launch of New ETF

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, RBC iShares expands its iShares Core exchange traded fund (ETF) lineup with the launch of the iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF (CAD-Hedged) (the ‘iShares Fund’).

The iShares Fund will provide investors with broad-based exposure to the total U.S. equity market, covering large-, mid-, small-, and micro-capitalized companies. The iShares Fund is a Canadian dollar-hedged offering and complements the iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF, XTOT, which was launched on June 2, 2025.

The iShares Fund is expected to begin trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) today; the iShares Fund is managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited (“BlackRock Canada”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc (“BlackRock”).

Fund Name Ticker Annual
Management
Fee¹

iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF (CAD-Hedged) XTOH 0.07%²

RBC iShares aims to help clients achieve their investment objectives by empowering them to build efficient portfolios and take control of their financial futures. RBC iShares is committed to delivering a truly differentiated ETF experience and positive outcomes for clients.

For more information about RBC iShares, please visit https://www.rbcishares.com.

About BlackRock

BlackRock’s purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate.

About iShares

iShares unlocks opportunity across markets to meet the evolving needs of investors. With more than twenty years of experience, a global line-up of 1500+ exchange traded funds (ETFs) and US$4.3 trillion in assets under management as of March 31, 2025, iShares continues to drive progress for the financial industry. iShares funds are powered by the expert portfolio and risk management of BlackRock.

iShares® ETFs are managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited.

About RBC
Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 97,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.

About RBC Global Asset Management
RBC Global Asset Management (RBC GAM) is the asset management division of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). RBC GAM is a provider of global investment management services and solutions to institutional, high-net-worth and individual investors through separate accounts, pooled funds, mutual funds, hedge funds, exchange-traded funds and specialty investment strategies. RBC Funds, BlueBay Funds, PH&N Funds and RBC ETFs are offered by RBC Global Asset Management Inc. (RBC GAM Inc.) and distributed through authorized dealers in Canada. The RBC GAM group of companies, which includes RBC GAM Inc. (including PH&N Institutional) manage approximately $693 billion in assets and have approximately 1,600 employees located across Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia.

RBC iShares ETFs are comprised of RBC ETFs managed by RBC Global Asset Management Inc. and iShares ETFs managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investing in ETFs. Please read the relevant prospectus before investing. ETFs are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional.

® / TM Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. iSHARES is a registered trademark of BlackRock, Inc., or its subsidiaries in the United States and elsewhere. Used under license. © 2025 BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited and RBC Global Asset Management Inc. All rights reserved.

Contact for Media:
Sydney Punchard
Email: Sydney.Punchard@blackrock.com

_______________________

¹ As an annualized percentage of the iShares Fund’s daily net asset value.
² If applicable, BlackRock Canada or an affiliate is entitled to receive a fee for acting as manager of each iShares ETF in which this iShares Fund may invest (an “underlying product fee” and together with the management fee payable to BlackRock Canada, the “total annual fee”). As the underlying product fees are embedded in the market value of the iShares ETFs in which this iShares Fund may invest, any underlying product fees are borne indirectly by this iShares Fund. BlackRock Canada will adjust the management fee payable to it by this iShares Fund to ensure that the total annual fees paid directly or indirectly to BlackRock Canada and its affiliates by this iShares Fund will not exceed the percentage of the NAV set out above. The total annual fee is exclusive of HST. Any underlying product fees borne indirectly by this iShares Fund are calculated and accrued daily and are paid not less than annually.

The MIL Network –

June 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: MEXC’s $1M TON Campaign Shatters Exchange Records with $6.6 Billion in Trading Volume
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC today announced the successful conclusion of its groundbreaking $1 million TON partnership campaign, which generated over $6.6 billion in combined trading volume and attracted more than 110,000 participants—making it one of the most successful single-token promotional campaigns in cryptocurrency exchange history.

The 30-day “TON Triumph” campaign reshaped market dynamics for The Open Network (TON) ecosystem while demonstrating the power of zero-fee trading structures and competitive staking rewards to drive mass adoption.

Record-Breaking Results

The campaign generated exceptional engagement across all components:
- TON Spot Trading: $1.4+ billion USDT in total volume
- TON Futures Trading: $5.2+ billion USDT in total volume
- Combined Impact: $6.6+ billion represents an estimated 300%+ increase over typical monthly TON trading volume on MEXC
- TON Staking Pool: 2.2+ million TON tokens pledged by participants
- USDE Holdings Program: $102+ million USDE held during campaign
- Total Participants: Over 110,000 unique users
- New User Conversion: 65%+ of participants completed first-time transactions on MEXC
Market Impact and Platform Performance

MEXC executives reported that results exceeded their most optimistic projections and validated their strategy of removing traditional barriers while offering exceptional value. The campaign’s zero-fee structure and high staking rewards attracted both retail and sophisticated traders, contributing to sustained high-volume activity throughout the 30-day period.

TON Foundation representatives noted that the scale of participation demonstrated remarkable appetite for TON ecosystem engagement, creating a substantial new cohort of active TON holders who will contribute to long-term ecosystem growth.

MEXC’s infrastructure successfully handled the surge in activity, processing zero-fee trades across multiple TON markets while managing complex staking operations. Industry experts highlighted this as a significant technical achievement demonstrating mature infrastructure capabilities.

Value Creation and Future Outlook

The campaign created substantial value for participants across all categories, with early stakers in the 400% APR program achieving returns significantly outpacing traditional crypto opportunities. Zero-fee trading enabled participants to maximize profits from TON market movements, while USDE holders earned over 557,000 USDE in distributed rewards.

MEXC strategy executives indicated these results validated their focus on emerging Layer-1 ecosystems and demonstrated market demand for innovative partnership structures. The company is evaluating similar large-scale campaigns with other blockchain ecosystems based on this success.

The TON Triumph campaign’s unprecedented success sets a new benchmark for cryptocurrency exchange partnerships and demonstrates the potential for innovative incentive structures to drive meaningful blockchain ecosystem adoption. As the crypto industry continues to evolve, this campaign serves as a blueprint for how strategic partnerships can create win-win scenarios that benefit exchanges, blockchain projects, and users alike.

Campaign Final Statistics:
- Total Participants: 110,000+
- Combined Trading Volume: $6.6+ billion USDT
- TON Tokens Staked: 2.2 million
- USDE Peak Holdings: $102+ million
- Total Rewards Distributed: $1+ million equivalent
About MEXC
Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

About TON
The Open Network (TON) is a fully decentralized layer-1 blockchain designed for mass adoption. Originally conceived by Telegram and now developed by the open TON Community, the network offers exceptional scalability, accessibility, and ease of use.

Risk Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2b6ecb18-f57b-439b-b736-1c2c1e976396

The MIL Network –
June 26, 2025

		US Toll Free		+1 866 213 0992
		Hong Kong Toll		+852 2112 1888
		Participant Passcode		2910077#

Fund Name	Ticker	Annual Management Fee¹
iShares Core S&P Total U.S. Stock Market Index ETF (CAD-Hedged)	XTOH	0.07%²

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