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Global Market: Japan’s Nikkei soars past 63,000 to record high, JGB rallies

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Global Market: Japan’s Nikkei soars past 63,000 to record high, JGB rallies
Japan’s Nikkei share average shot to a record high on Thursday and the nation’s bonds rallied as financial markets reopened after holidays, catching up with optimism over strong technology earnings and signs of a potential peace deal in the Middle East.

The benchmark Nikkei 225 Index jumped 5.58%, the most in more than a year, to close at an unprecedented 62,833.84. The gauge reached as high as 63,091.14, ‌breaking through the psychological ⁠level ⁠of 63,000 for the first time. The broader Topix climbed 3% to 3,840.49.

Japanese government bonds (JGBs) rose after a three-day trading break that saw the yen appreciate on suspected intervention by authorities in Tokyo.

The yen bought 156.375 per dollar, largely steady a day after a sprint to a 10-week high of 155 fuelled talk of further official support.

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Wall Street indexes hit record highs overnight as positive results from Advanced Micro Devices propelled euphoria over the red-hot artificial intelligence sector. Iran said it is reviewing a U.S. proposal to end ⁠the more ‌than two-month war, while President Donald Trump said the U.S. has had very good talks with Tehran.


“Today’s sharp gain of the Nikkei was led by the strong performance of chip ⁠shares, driven by Advanced Micro Devices’s strong forecast,” said Takamasa Ikeda, a senior portfolio manager at GCI Asset Management. “The contents of the U.S.-Iran peace proposals are thin, but there is an expectation in the market that further military action will not take place.”
There were 174 advancers on the Nikkei index against 49 decliners. The largest percentage gainers in the index were tech sector suppliers, led by Ibiden, up 22.4%, followed by Sumco, which surged 19.7%, and Kioxia, 19.2% higher.Mining and exporter shares were broadly lower, however, marking a reversal from gains during the Iran ‌conflict as energy prices surged and the yen weakened. Inpex, Japan’s top oil and gas explorer, sank 6.5%, leading decliners, while Honda Motor lost 0.24%.

“The automakers remain weak as the environment has become severe with intensifying global ⁠competition,” said Hiroyuki Ueno, chief strategist at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management. “Besides that, they may not enjoy benefits of the weak yen in the current fiscal year.”

Minutes released on Thursday of the Bank of Japan’s March meeting showed many board members saw the need to raise interest rates if the Iran war-driven energy shock is prolonged.

JGBs got a boost as the stronger yen and stabilising oil prices over Japan’s holidays eased concerns about inflation, which diminishes the fixed returns on debt.

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The benchmark 10-year JGB yield fell 2.5 basis points (bps) to 2.475%. The two-year yield, the one most sensitive to central bank policy rates, decreased 1.5 bps to 1.365%.

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Eyal Avramovich on Scaling Global Innovation and Building Resilient Technology Businesses

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Eyal Avramovich on Scaling Global Innovation and Building Resilient Technology Businesses

Eyal Avramovich has built his career around a clear principle: long-term success in complex industries comes from discipline, not speed. Across cryptocurrency infrastructure, energy development, and advanced technology, he has focused on building systems that can scale globally while maintaining operational control. His work reflects a consistent emphasis on efficiency, structure, and long-term execution rather than short-term momentum.

Operating in industries defined by volatility, Eyal Avramovich has prioritized resilience. Instead of reacting to market cycles, he has focused on building businesses designed to withstand them. That approach has shaped the growth of MineBest and his broader ventures, where infrastructure and operational consistency serve as the foundation for expansion.

Early Foundations and a Problem-Solving Approach

Eyal Avramovich’s mindset was shaped early by a strong interest in solving practical problems. He developed a habit of looking at everyday challenges and identifying ways to improve them. This perspective carried into his early career, where he created products designed to address specific needs.

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He holds multiple patents, including ultra-thin consumer devices and a robotic system designed for physical recovery. These products reached global markets through major retail platforms, demonstrating his ability to take ideas from concept to execution. More importantly, they reinforced a pattern that continues to define his work: focusing on functionality, efficiency, and real-world application.

That same approach later guided his entry into cryptocurrency. Rather than viewing it as a speculative space, Eyal Avramovich approached it as an operational challenge. The opportunity, in his view, was not only in digital assets but in the infrastructure required to support them at scale.

Infrastructure as the Core of Long-Term Success

Eyal Avramovich has consistently emphasized that infrastructure is the foundation of any sustainable business in digital assets. Cryptocurrency mining, in particular, is highly dependent on operational performance. Success is driven by uptime, energy efficiency, and the ability to manage hardware at scale.

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Through MineBest, he has led the development of mining operations across multiple regions, reaching more than 150 megawatts of global capacity. Expansion into North America reflects a continued focus on long-term growth and strategic positioning. As part of strengthening its presence in the region, MineBest is also an official sponsor of Bitcoin 2026 in Las Vegas, further highlighting its commitment to maintaining a leading role in the Bitcoin mining space across North America.

His approach challenges a common trend in emerging industries. Many companies prioritize rapid expansion during favorable conditions. Eyal Avramovich has taken a different path, focusing on systems that can perform consistently across market cycles. He has stressed that companies that endure are those that execute a clear strategy over time rather than reacting to short-term movements.

This focus on infrastructure extends beyond physical facilities. It includes operational procedures, governance standards, and partner selection. By building repeatable systems, he ensures that expansion does not compromise performance or reliability.

Scaling Across Borders with Discipline

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Scaling globally introduces complexity that goes beyond growth. Maintaining consistent performance across regions requires a balance between centralized control and local execution. Eyal Avramovich has addressed this by developing systems that can be applied across markets while adapting to regional conditions.

He evaluates potential markets based on key factors such as energy reliability, regulatory clarity, political stability, and access to skilled labor. Expansion decisions are made with a long-term view, focusing on whether a region can support sustained operations.

This approach reflects a broader principle. Global expansion is not about being present everywhere. It is about being in the right places and executing at a consistent standard. By working with trusted partners while maintaining oversight, Eyal Avramovich has been able to scale operations without sacrificing control.

Preparation is a critical part of this process. He invests heavily in planning and due diligence before entering new markets. This allows for faster execution when opportunities arise while reducing the risk of operational issues.

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Managing Risk in Uncertain Markets

The cryptocurrency and energy sectors are inherently unpredictable. Market conditions shift quickly, and external factors such as regulation and energy supply play a significant role in performance. Eyal Avramovich has built his strategy around managing these risks rather than attempting to avoid them.

He identifies several key challenges, including energy instability, regulatory uncertainty, and margin pressure. His response focuses on efficiency across all aspects of the business. This includes optimizing hardware, securing reliable energy sources, and maintaining strict operational standards.

Geographic diversification is another important factor. Operating across multiple regions reduces exposure to localized risks, whether regulatory or geopolitical. This creates a more stable foundation for long-term growth.

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Transparency has also become increasingly important. As institutional capital enters the space, expectations around reporting and governance have risen. Eyal Avramovich has emphasized the need for clear data and structured operations, aligning his businesses with these evolving standards.

Institutional Standards and Operational Discipline

A key aspect of Eyal Avramovich’s strategy is working with institutional clients. These clients prioritize stability, transparency, and long-term performance. Their expectations have influenced how his businesses are structured and managed.

Institutional partnerships require a higher level of discipline. Decisions must be supported by data, and processes must meet defined standards. This reinforces a consistent approach across operations, ensuring reliability at scale.

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At the same time, he recognizes the role of broader participation in emerging industries. Earlier in his career, he focused on making cryptocurrency mining more accessible. While the market has evolved, the goal of balancing accessibility with quality remains relevant.

Institutional involvement is shaping the future of the industry. As more capital enters the space, the demand for reliable infrastructure and structured operations continues to grow. Eyal Avramovich has positioned his companies to meet these expectations through consistent execution.

Balancing Execution Speed with Strategic Clarity

High-growth industries reward speed. However, moving too quickly without a clear strategy can create long-term problems. Eyal Avramovich has taken a measured approach, prioritizing precision over rapid expansion.

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He invests time in planning and due diligence, ensuring that each decision aligns with long-term objectives. Once a strategy is established, execution can move quickly and efficiently. This approach reduces the need for reactive adjustments.

This balance is particularly important in industries where both technology and regulation evolve quickly. Companies must be able to adapt while maintaining direction. Eyal Avramovich has emphasized that speed only creates value when it supports a defined strategy.

Energy Strategy and Long-Term Sustainability

Energy plays a central role in cryptocurrency mining, making it a key focus area for Eyal Avramovich. His work includes efforts to integrate renewable energy solutions into business operations.

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One initiative involves developing energy systems designed for continuous production with reduced environmental impact. These projects reflect an understanding that long-term success in energy-intensive industries requires responsible resource management.

Integrating energy strategy into operations helps control costs and address regulatory expectations. As governments introduce new standards, businesses must adapt to maintain compliance. Eyal Avramovich has approached this proactively, incorporating energy considerations into long-term planning.

Continuous Improvement as a Business Practice

Eyal Avramovich approaches progress as a continuous process. Rather than focusing on major breakthroughs, he emphasizes incremental improvements in efficiency, infrastructure, and operations.

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This method supports consistency. It ensures that changes align with the overall direction of the business rather than introducing unnecessary risk. By focusing on measurable improvements, companies can adapt without losing stability.

Internal processes and culture play a role in this approach. Encouraging teams to identify inefficiencies and implement solutions creates ongoing progress. This supports long-term growth while maintaining operational control.

Regulation and Global Alignment

Regulation remains one of the most complex aspects of operating internationally. Eyal Avramovich has observed that regulatory frameworks and technological development are becoming more aligned over time.

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Clear regulations can support growth by providing stability and attracting institutional investment. However, differences between regions continue to create challenges. Companies must navigate varying requirements while maintaining consistent operations.

He emphasizes the importance of staying proactive. Understanding regulatory environments and operating transparently helps reduce risk and build trust. This approach also positions businesses to adapt as regulations evolve.

A Measured Approach to Long-Term Business Growth

Eyal Avramovich’s career reflects a consistent focus on building businesses that can endure. From early product development to global infrastructure projects, his work demonstrates a commitment to discipline and strategic clarity.

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He has built operations across multiple regions and industries, each supported by a structured approach to efficiency and risk management. This foundation allows his businesses to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining stability.

His approach offers a broader lesson for leaders in emerging industries. Sustainable success is not defined by rapid growth but by the strength of the systems supporting that growth. Companies that invest in structure are better positioned to navigate uncertainty.

Positioning for Stability in a Changing Global Market

Eyal Avramovich continues to expand his work across technology and energy while maintaining a consistent focus on long-term execution. His approach reflects an understanding that complex industries require structured planning and disciplined management.

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By prioritizing infrastructure, managing risk, and aligning strategy with execution, he has created a framework for operating in global markets. This model emphasizes stability over speed and consistency over reaction.

As industries continue to evolve, the ability to build resilient systems will remain critical. Eyal Avramovich’s work demonstrates that long-term thinking, supported by disciplined execution, is essential for building businesses that last.

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Paramount Earthmoving boss Shawn Tilley rejoins Macro after fraud charges dropped

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Paramount Earthmoving boss Shawn Tilley rejoins Macro after fraud charges dropped

Paramount Earthmoving managing director Shawn Tilley has been re-appointed as a Macro Metals director after fraud charges against him were dropped.

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Major rail disruption in south of England following radio fault

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Major rail disruption in south of England following radio fault

Trains have been cancelled and delayed, but Network Rail says services are now returning to normal.

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New fund to progress major projects in state budget

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New fund to progress major projects in state budget

A new $500 million fund to fast-track major projects like the Aboriginal Cultural Centre has come out of the 2026-27 state budget.

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Light & Wonder, Inc. (LNWO) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

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OneWater Marine Inc. (ONEW) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Q1: 2026-05-06 Earnings Summary

EPS of $1.45 misses by $0.18

 | Revenue of $790.00M (2.07% Y/Y) misses by $41.12M

Light & Wonder, Inc. (LNWO) Q1 2026 Earnings Call May 6, 2026 7:00 PM EDT

Company Participants

Rohan Gallagher – Executive VP & Global Chief Corporate Affairs Officer
Matthew Wilson – CEO, President & Director
Oliver Chow – Executive VP, CFO & Treasurer

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Conference Call Participants

Andre Fromyhr – UBS Investment Bank, Research Division
Barry Jonas – Truist Securities, Inc., Research Division
Matthew Ryan – Barrenjoey Markets Pty Limited, Research Division
Rohan Sundram – MST Financial Services Pty Limited, Research Division
Justin Barratt – CLSA Limited, Research Division
David Fabris – Macquarie Research
Kai Erman – Jefferies LLC, Research Division
Adrian Lemme – Citigroup Inc., Research Division
Liam Robertson – Jarden Limited, Research Division

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Presentation

Operator

Good day, and thank you for standing by. Welcome to Light & Wonder First Quarter 2026 Earnings Webcast and Conference Call.

[Operator Instructions]

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Please be advised that today’s conference is being recorded.

I’d now like to hand the conference over to Rohan Gallagher, EVP of Corporate Affairs. Please go ahead, sir.

Rohan Gallagher
Executive VP & Global Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

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Thank you, operator, and welcome, everyone, to our first quarter 2026 earnings conference call. Joining me today in Sydney are Matt Wilson, our President and CEO; and Oliver Chow, our CFO. During today’s call, we will discuss our first quarter results and operating performance, where we will refer to our earnings presentation. This will then be followed by a question-and-answer session.

Today’s call will contain forward-looking statements that may involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed during the call. For information regarding these risks and uncertainties, please refer to our earnings materials relating to this call posted in the Investors section of our website and our filings with the SEC and the ASX. We will also discuss certain non-GAAP financial measures. A description of each non-GAAP

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JD Sports warns of ‘muted growth’ amid UK consumer spending slowdown

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Chief executive Régis Shultz says sportswear giant planning ‘control the controllables’ strategy

JD Sports logos

JD Sports says growth this year is likely to be muted(Image: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire)

JD Sports has reported falling profits as the sportswear retailer warned it is bracing for a period of “muted” growth amid subdued consumer spending and potential cost pressures from the Iran conflict.

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Pre-tax profit at the FTSE 100 company dropped by 12 per cent to £629m in the year to January, despite sales climbing by 12 per cent to £12.7bn.

The sportswear chain was plunged into boardroom turmoil last month, when chair Andy Higginson resigned after reportedly failing to persuade the board to remove its chief executive.

JD Sports said on Thursday it is anticipating “muted market growth” in the year ahead, “shaped by a weaker spending outlook for our core customer demographic and ongoing product cycle evolution at some of our major brand partners, particularly in footwear”.

Consumer confidence has slumped to its lowest level in more than two years, as Britons rein in non-essential spending amid inflation concerns, as reported by City AM.

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JD Sports said it has yet to experience an impact from the Middle East conflict, but said cost increases could be on the horizon and it may need to raise prices in response.

The company said it has no direct sales exposure to the Middle East market, where it runs just eight franchise stores.

The retailer issued broader profit guidance than it was “previously planning” to reflect the “uncertainty” created by the Iran conflict, forecasting a pre-tax profit of between £750m and £850m for the coming year. JD Sports recorded a 2.5 per cent decline in organic sales to £3.1bn in the UK, while sales surged by nine and four per cent in Asia Pacific and Europe respectively.

The retailer attributed the downturn in UK sales to “a tough consumer backdrop” and falling online sales, noting it faced particularly fierce competition within the female athletic footwear market.

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Organic sales in the UK fell by 3.6 per cent in the final three months, as poor weather conditions dampened in-store footfall, the retailer confirmed.

READ MORE: JD Sports brings biggest-ever careers event to Manchester as it bids to help more young people into workREAD MORE: JD Sports plans to let shoppers buy through AI platforms

JD Sports closed 24 stores across the UK over the past year, although the retailer recorded 107 net openings in North America.

The company’s share price climbed three per cent at Thursday’s market open, reaching 70p, leaving the stock down 18 per cent for the year to date.

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Chief executive Régis Shultz said his company is embracing a “control the controllables” strategy, as it seeks to preserve cash headroom and deliver a dividend to shareholders in the years ahead.

He said: “Whilst we continue to expect muted market growth in full-year 2027, we remain confident in JD Group’s medium‐term trajectory, underpinned by our strong brand partnerships and agile, multi‐brand model.

“For the year ahead we are focused on further enhancing and optimising our product offer, customer experience and store footprint, and delivering strong cost and cash discipline.” Recently departed chairman Andy Higginson is reported to have lobbied JD Sports’ boardroom to remove Schultz, but ultimately left the company himself after his efforts to unseat the chief executive proved unsuccessful.

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Gray Media declares $0.08 quarterly dividend per share

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Gray Media declares $0.08 quarterly dividend per share

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Chambers Wales appoints new president

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Partner with Menzies based in Cardiff John Cullen takes up the presidency role

John Cullen and Emma Waddington.

Chambers Wales has appointed partner with accountancy firm Menzies John Cullen as its new president.

The business membership organisation has also appointed Emma Waddingham of Legal News Wales and Tom Wilkinson of Barcud Shared Services to its board, with both also becoming vice-presidents.

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The new appointments come just a few months after Chamber Wales formed a new board bringing together sector experts from across Wales to bolster its work and campaigning on key issues affecting Welsh SMEs.

Based at Menzies’ Cardiff office, Kiwi Mr Cullen manages the firm’s UK-wide equity, inclusion and social value initiatives, an expertise he also brings to the chamber as its social value chair.

Ms Waddingham is the founder and editor of Legal News Wales and is currently the first non-lawyer to be president of the Cardiff and District Law Society. She is also the chamber’s business networking Chair.

Mr Wilkinson is the director of Operations at not-for-profit organisation Barcud Shared Services and is also chair of the YMCA Cardiff. As well as taking on the role as Chambers’ vice-president, he is the not-for-profit Chair, helping foster collaboration between the public, private and not for profit sectors.

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Mr Cullen said: “I am very proud to be taking up the role as president of Chamber Wales. I look forward to supporting the work that the Chambers does in bringing Welsh businesses together, campaigning on its behalf and supporting its members when they really need it.

“In my work as a partner at Menzies, I spend a lot of time advising boards and solving seemingly complex problems outside of the board’s normal expertise, and so I have been able to bring this experience to the Chambers’ board and now hope to expand that in my role as president.”

“Chambers Wales is committed to working with its members to reflect a real-world economic view to our politicians about what it’s like to run a company in Wales today – the challenges, the opportunities, and the blockers. We will foster collaboration across the board to make Wales an amazing place to do business.

“We have such a great business eco-system here in Wales, one that is supportive, collaborative, and innovative. There are so many opportunities that we can exploit both in the UK and abroad on behalf of our members and I’m really looking forward to working closely with them to achieve their goals, which will ultimately help Wales economically.”

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Penny Lock, commercial director at Chambers Wales, said of John, Emma and Tom’s appointments: “This really is a dream team of senior leaders for Chambers Wales. Each brings with them a level of expertise and passion that will be a massive benefit to us as an organisation and our members alike.”

Rachelle Sellek, partner at Acuity Law and non-executive director of Chambers Wales, added: “As a board, we are really pleased and proud that John, Emma and Tom have taken up these important roles in our organisation. Each bring a unique skill, personal experience and commitment to Chambers Wales that I know will help us grow and thrive.”

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USAA launches free childcare program for military spouses in job search

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USAA launches free childcare program for military spouses in job search

EXCLUSIVE – USAA and the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) are launching a new childcare initiative just in time for Military Spouse Appreciation Day aimed at addressing a growing challenge for military families — access to affordable care during frequent relocations that often disrupt careers.

The $1.45 million effort comes as military spouse unemployment remains significantly higher than the national average, with childcare shortages emerging as a key driver.

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“Today, the military spouse unemployment rate is north of 20%, which is four times that of their civilian counterparts,” Jenna Sauceto Herrera, who leads corporate impact at USAA, told FOX Business.

“When you think about the modern economy, the dual household income for military families is a requirement, it is not a luxury.”

USAA COMMITS $500M TO HELP VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES WITH CAREER SUPPORT, FINANCIAL SECURITY

Child looks up as military family gifted mortgage-free home

USAA and the Armed Services YMCA are launching a new childcare initiative ahead of Military Spouse Appreciation Day to ease a growing burden on military families: finding affordable care as frequent moves derail careers. (Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images / Getty Images)

The lack of consistent childcare is a nationwide issue, but military families face added pressure due to Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves — routine relocations that force families to rebuild support systems from scratch.

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“There are over 7,800 military children on waiting lists for childcare access,” Herrera said.

For many families, each move means restarting the search for housing, employment, and care — all at once.

OPENAI LAUNCHES FREE CHATGPT PROGRAM FOR TRANSITIONING VETERANS ENTERING CIVILIAN WORKFORCE

Retired U.S. Navy Vice Adm. William French speaks at podium at Camp Pendleton

Armed Services YMCA President and CEO Bill French said military families often struggle to find child care and maintain employment during frequent PCS moves, calling the burden on spouses overwhelming. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Mhecaela J. Watts)

“During PCS moves, they have to pick up and find new child care, new job opportunities for the spouse,” ASYMCA President and CEO Bill French told FOX Business.

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French, a retired admiral, said the reality for military families — many of them young with children — is often overwhelming.

“You are the childcare during the move,” he said, describing the strain placed on spouses trying to maintain employment.

The challenge goes beyond unemployment alone.

USAA POPPY WALL RETURNS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND TO HONOR THOSE WHO ‘GAVE ALL FOR OUR FREEDOM’

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A father and daughter smile for the camera on military base

Frequent PCS moves force military families to rebuild child care and support systems from scratch, with more than 7,800 children now stuck on waitlists. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Hannah Strobel / Unknown)

“There’s a lot of military spouses that are employed, but they’re underemployed,” French added, noting many are forced to take lower-paying jobs after relocating due to limited opportunities and lack of childcare.

The new program, called Mission Watch, is designed to provide free, short-term childcare for military spouses navigating job searches — particularly during PCS transitions.

“This gives you a chance to drop your kids off with quality child care and not have to pay any money to go make the investment to go find a job,” French said.

VETERANS OFFER UNTAPPED TALENT AMID ONGOING LABOR SHORTAGES, EXPERT SAYS

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ASYMCA and Members of the 1st Special Forces Command show off Christmas Toy/Food drive

The pilot will launch at three bases and offer spouses short-term childcare blocks to job hunt or train as part of USAA’s $500 million effort to boost military family mobility. (U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Marc Ramirez / Unknown)

The pilot will launch at three installations: Fort Hood and Fort Bliss in Texas as well as Camp Pendleton in California.

Spouses will be able to access two-hour childcare blocks during the workday, allowing time for interviews, training or networking.

“Think about the opportunity to job hunt, to take an interview, to go to a networking event,” Herrera said.

The initiative is part of USAA’s wider Honor Through Action effort — a five-year, $500 million commitment focused on improving economic mobility and quality of life for military families.

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ASYMCA, which has supported service members and their families for more than 165 years, operates across 12 branches and works with dozens of military installations nationwide.

“We support junior enlisted service members and their families,” French said, adding that childcare remains one of the most urgent needs.

For military families, access to childcare is increasingly tied to financial stability and the ability for spouses to stay in the workforce.

“Affordable, enriching, and accessible childcare is critical to the readiness of our warriors, ensuring that they are able to remain focused on our mission and prepared to achieve peace through strength,” Anthony J. Tata, Under Secretary of War for Personnel and Readiness, said in a statement to FOX Business.

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“It also has cascading effects on the wellbeing of their families, directly supporting spouse employment, economic security, and force retention.”

Without reliable care, many are forced to step away from careers altogether, particularly during moves.

“You need two sources of income, particularly in a family with kids,” French said.

USAA and ASYMCA say the pilot program is just a starting point, with plans to expand if successful.

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“We want to start with the pilot. The idea is that we can scale it,” Herrera said.

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As military families continue to navigate frequent relocations and limited childcare options, the new partnership aims to provide immediate relief while testing a model that could grow nationwide.

“We appreciate the many partners that are helping the Department to take care of our Service members and their families, complementing and strengthening our efforts to provide dependable childcare solutions that our warriors can trust, accelerate spouse employment, and improve quality of life for our military families,” Tata said.

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An Introduction to Its 11 Member Nations

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An Introduction to Its 11 Member Nations

Southeast Asian leaders gathered in Cebu City for the 48th ASEAN Summit (May 6-8), focusing on energy security, food security, and regional safety amid global tensions. Hosted by the Philippines, the summit united 11 member states representing nearly 700 million people and the world’s fifth-largest economy.

Key Points

• Southeast Asian leaders convened in Cebu City (May 6-8) for the 48th ASEAN Summit, hosted by the Philippines under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” focusing on energy security, food security, and the safety of ASEAN nationals amid global tensions, particularly fallout from the Middle East conflict.

• Representing nearly 700 million people and the world’s fifth-largest combined economy, ASEAN’s 11 member states are pursuing coordinated regional strategies, including diversifying energy sources, expanding renewables, and strengthening food security mechanisms to address supply chain disruptions and volatile markets.

• The 11 ASEAN member states — Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and newest member East Timor — bring diverse economies, governance systems, and development priorities that collectively shape the bloc’s direction and push for meaningful regional cooperation.

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The 48th ASEAN Summit: Agenda and Regional Priorities

Southeast Asian leaders convened in Cebu City, Philippines, from May 6–8 for the 48th ASEAN Summit, hosted under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.” The summit brought together representatives from all 11 member states, representing nearly 700 million people and the world’s fifth-largest combined economy. Key agenda items included energy security, food security, and the protection of ASEAN nationals, all made more urgent by escalating global tensions. The three-day program featured high-level engagements, summit plenaries, and preparatory ministerial sessions.


Addressing Global Pressures Through Regional Cooperation

A central concern at the summit was the fallout from the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has significantly disrupted Southeast Asian economies through volatile energy prices, supply chain breakdowns, and rising food and transport costs. In response, ASEAN economic ministers called for a coordinated regional strategy, including diversifying energy sources, expanding renewable energy, and reinforcing frameworks such as the ASEAN Power Grid and Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline. Food security mechanisms, particularly the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve, were also prioritized to ensure timely and coherent regional responses.


A Diverse Bloc Shaping a Collective Future

The summit also highlighted the remarkable diversity among ASEAN’s 11 member states. Economies range from Indonesia’s $1.40 trillion GDP — the bloc’s largest — to East Timor’s $1.9 billion, the newest member admitted in 2025. Population sizes, governance structures, and development levels vary widely, from Singapore’s high-density city-state to Laos’s landlocked agrarian economy. Despite these differences, the summit reinforced ASEAN’s commitment to delivering “real, responsive, and meaningful outcomes” for its peoples, strengthening the bloc’s role as a platform for dialogue, stability, and collective economic progress.

Source : Asean at a glance: Meet the bloc’s 11 member states

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