NewzIntel.com

Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sep 23, 2024 HandyDART Workers Vote to Ratify Contract with Transdev

    Source: US Amalgamated Transit Union

    Union Wins Pay Increases and Other Improvements

    Vancouver, BC  – HandyDART workers, members of ATU Local 1724-Vancouver, BC, voted to approve a strong collective bargaining agreement with contractor Transdev after reaching the deal last Friday.

    At a September 3 rally attended by ATU International President John Costa and allies, the more than 600 Metro Vancouver HandyDART workers walked off the job after Transdev refused to address the Union’s concerns over, wages, high worker turnover, and the skyrocketing use of taxis at HandyDART.

    “This is a great day for our members to ratify this contract,” said Local 1724 President/Business Agent Joe McCann “Our strike showed the power of fighting for our rights. We are thankful for the outpouring of support from our riders, fellow union members, and elected officials, many of whom walked our picket lines. After months of negotiations, this contract recognizes our members for the heroes they truly are.”

    The new contract includes significant wage increases that address the staffing shortages, and the Union was also able to push back on the use of taxis through creative language on shift scheduling and reporting.

    “It was inspiring to join our HandyDART members on their picket lines. This contract is a testament to their solidarity, resolve, and unity,” said ATU International President John Costa. “It is a win not only for our HandyDART workers but for the seniors and people with disabilities who rely on our members for safe and reliable transportation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Algernon Yau visits Singapore

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau met senior officials and business leaders in Singapore to deepen trade and economic ties, and explore collaboration opportunities during his visit from September 22 to 24.

    ​Mr Yau updated representatives from major business chambers of Singapore on Hong Kong’s latest developments and measures on assisting enterprises in setting up businesses in the city.

    They include the Singapore Business Federation, the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises of Singapore, the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce and the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

    He appealed to the Singaporean business sector to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages to explore the vast opportunities in the Mainland market, particularly the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    Yesterday, Mr Yau had a lunch meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade & Industry of Singapore Gan Kim Yong to discuss various trade and economic issues, and the regional economic landscape.

    Mr Yau thanked Singapore for supporting Hong Kong’s application for joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

    He noted that Hong Kong always treasures Singapore as a valuable economic partner both on its own and as a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) family.

    By joining the RCEP, Hong Kong can contribute to the wider and deeper economic co-operation and integration in the region, Mr Yau added.

    ​The commerce chief also paid a courtesy call on the Chinese Ambassador to Singapore Cao Zhongming to update him on Hong Kong’s latest situation. 

    ​Mr Yau then attended a dinner with Hong Kong entrepreneurs and executives working in Singapore to hear more about their work and lives.

    Today, ​he met Singapore Economic Development Board Chairman Png Cheong Boon to learn about Singapore’s latest developments and exchange views on investment promotion, saying he looked forward to further collaboration between Hong Kong and Singapore in different areas with a view to fostering even closer relations between the two economies.

    Noting that Hong Kong and Singapore have long been enjoying close and cordial bilateral trade and economic relations, Mr Yau highlighted that Singapore is Hong Kong’s fourth-largest trading partner and largest partner among the ASEAN member states in merchandise trade, as well as Hong Kong’s seventh-largest investor and sixth-largest destination of outward investment.

    The commerce chief will return to Hong Kong this evening.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Good employers lauded

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Labour Department today held a ceremony to commend good employers and launch its Good Employee Recognition Campaign.

    The department revealed that 1,596 organisations are signatories to the Good Employer Charter 2024, representing an increase of nearly 70% over the previous version. Among these organisations, 1,002 are authorised to use the “Supportive Family-friendly Good Employer” logo, which denotes commitment to promoting a family-friendly employment culture.

    Moreover, 318 organisations have been signatories for three consecutive terms of the charter, meaning they have consistently had good human resource management practices in place.

    At the ceremony, representatives from three signatories shared their experience in carrying out good human resource management and family-friendly employment practices.

    Meanwhile, employers are being encouraged to nominate employees for the inaugural Good Employee Recognition Campaign, launched to support the Good Employer Charter 2024.

    The campaign allows employers to show recognition and express gratitude for their employees’ contributions. Employers are assessed in terms of their abilities, attitude towards clients, adaptability, team spirit, and sense of belonging to the organisation.

    Nominated employees or teams accredited by the scheme’s panel of judges will each be awarded a Good Employee Commendation Certificate and a lapel pin in recognition of their outstanding performance and contribution.

    Speaking at the event, Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun thanked every good employer for implementing flexible work arrangements and offering assistance to employees to enable them to balance their work and personal lives. He said this was conducive to unleashing the potential of the local labour force.

    Mr Sun added that the current-term Government attaches great importance to improving employee benefits, promoting employment, and protecting occupational health and safety. He also expressed hope that different groups in society will continue to support the charter and the Good Employee Recognition Campaign, and work together to foster win-win labour relations, as well as a harmonious and inclusive community.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID and DFC Host Dialogue on Clean Energy Supply Chains as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development in Africa

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:‎

    Today, on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly, USAID Counselor Clinton White and DFC Deputy CEO Nisha Biswal co-hosted a side event on scaling clean energy supply chains in Africa can catalyze sustainable development and advance clean energy-led growth globally.  

    During the event, Senior Advisor to President Biden for International Climate Policy John Podesta and the DRC Minister of Mining Kizito Pakabomba discussed how to enhance collaboration to spur green industrialization in Africa, building on the success of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  

    Today’s event highlighted the vital role that clean energy supply chains play in driving sustainable development across Africa. Participants, including CEOs from clean energy manufacturing companies in Africa and in the United States underscored that by fostering partnerships among governments, the private sector, and civil society, we can harness Africa’s rich natural resources to build a clean energy industrial future that benefits all. The discussions not only focused on the opportunities presented by critical minerals but also addressed the imperative of ensuring that development is equitable, environmentally sustainable, and local. Participants agreed that there is an urgent need for collaboration across the private and public sector to scale clean energy supply chains.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman at Transforming Global Humanitarian Response for the 21st Century

    Source: USAID

    DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR ISOBEL COLEMAN: Thank you, Secretary [Antony] Blinken, Foreign Secretary [David] Lammy, Mr. [Ilan] Goldfajn, and Mr. [Børge] Brende for bringing us together today. 

    As you all have emphasized, every year, global humanitarian needs reach record highs. Today, more than 80 percent of the countries where USAID works, encompassing roughly two billion people, are fragile or conflict-affected states. 

    Our humanitarian assistance spending in response to crises has tripled in the last decade, while development assistance has been flat.  

    In other words, we’re dedicating more and more of our resources to responding to crises – instead of investing in long-term efforts to prevent them. 

    This is not sustainable.

    The solution requires all of us – humanitarian, development, and peace practitioners, governments, and the private sector – to more effectively meet the staggering global humanitarian needs while continuing to drive development gains. 

    This is why, in January, USAID launched an Agency-wide initiative to align our humanitarian, development, and peace efforts across our policy, planning, and programming – so that even while responding to crises, we are also making critical investments in long term stability and prevention. 

    We are taking practical steps to change the way we work, such as conducting an information campaign to increase the use of existing award flexibilities, aligning our humanitarian and development strategic planning processes, and co-hosting a global forum with the UK, Germany, the World Bank, UNICEF, and WFP on social protection in fragility and conflict.

    USAID is also leveraging funding from the Global Fragility Act to facilitate the kinds of private investment that can be so pivotal to preventing and more sustainably addressing global humanitarian needs. 

    Today, I am pleased to announce that we have partnered with the US Development Finance Corporation to create a new specialized unit to focus on identifying promising investment opportunities in fragile environments – where investments are often more complicated, riskier, and time-consuming. 

    We are eager to partner with you in catalyzing these critical investments, which align with so many of the goals we’ve discussed today. 

    I commend this group for your commitment to breaking down silos and identifying more sustainable and cost-effective ways to address the staggering global humanitarian needs we face today. 

    USAID is committed to advancing this agenda with you. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID Joins PepsiCo, Unilever, Danone, McCormick & Company, and Nespresso to Launch Collaboration to Advance Women for Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains

    Source: USAID

    Today, USAID joined consumer goods multinational companies PepsiCo, Unilever, Danone, McCormick & Company, and Nespresso in launching a new public-private partnership that aims to accelerate gender equality and enhance environmental sustainability in agricultural supply chains. The new initiative, Advancing Women for Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains, aligns with the Women in the Sustainable Economy (WISE) initiative – a partnership launched by Vice President Kamala Harris in 2023 to bolster women’s economic security in sectors that address climate change. 

    With a planned, collective investment of $50 million to start – including over $11 million of USAID funding – this new agricultural supply chain initiative will help catalyze industry-level change through learning, scaling, and providing evidence on how supporting women in agricultural supply chains can help deliver environmental sustainability goals. The initiative will drive scale by bringing in new organizations and additional funds, with a total target of $90 million over the next five years. 

    In parallel, USAID also welcomed the Skoll Foundation as the newest partner to WISE through its support of the USAID-led Climate Gender Equity Fund – a public-private partnership with Amazon, Reckitt, the UPS Foundation, and the Visa Foundation that seeks to increase access to climate finance for women-led and women-benefiting organizations working at the forefront of climate action. Three of its newest grantees – Altree Capital, The Rallying Cry, and Villgro Philippines – were also announced. 

    Finally, Acumen, Germany, Heading for Change, the Republic of Cyprus, and the United Kingdom announced $339 million in new aligned commitments to advance the WISE Initiative through their independent efforts that advance WISE objectives. The Millennium Challenge Corporation, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and the U.S. Department of Energy announced $289 million in additional aligned U.S. government commitments to the WISE initiative. In all, today’s announcements total $681 million in direct and aligned commitments – bringing the collective commitment of 33 governments, corporations, foundations, and civil society organizations to a total of over $2 billion towards the WISE Initiative. 

    For more information about the WISE Initiative, please visit ClimateLinks or email wise@usaid.gov.

    Advancing Women for Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains Women in the Sustainable Economy WISE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs bipartisan bills to address sideshows and street takeovers

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 23, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed four bills today to help law enforcement crack down on dangerous sideshows and street takeovers. These new laws will hold participants and organizers accountable by providing law enforcement with the tools to seize vehicles involved in these illegal activities.

    SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom signed bipartisan legislation today to impose stricter penalties, increase accountability, and strengthen law enforcement’s ability to combat sideshows and street takeovers. These measures mark a step forward in improving road safety across California by addressing the rise of illegal street activities that endanger the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and communities. These new laws provide law enforcement with enhanced tools to more effectively deter illegal activities such as drifting, street racing, and blocking intersections during sideshows and street takeovers.

    “Sideshows are reckless, criminal activities that endanger our communities. We have seen too many people killed or hurt at these events. Today, we are sending a clear message to anyone considering participating in or attending a sideshow: stricter penalties are in place, including the potential loss of your vehicle.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Communities throughout California report increased sideshow activities and street takeovers. These dangerous events, where people race vehicles and shut down streets to perform stunts, can quickly turn deadly, often leading to accidents, spectator injuries, and other criminal activity, and block roadways and disrupt traffic flow, including access for emergency vehicles.

    Participants, organizers, and spectators be warned

    These new laws expand vehicle impoundment authority for law enforcement, including for spectators and those aiding in illegal speed contests and sideshows, while also standardizing terminology for “sideshows” and “street takeovers” statewide, and targeting reckless driving activities on highways and parking lots.

    Governor Newsom today strengthened California’s ability to improve road safety by signing the following bills:

    • AB 1978 by Assemblymember Kate Sanchez (R-Rancho Santa Margarita) – Vehicles: speed contests
    • AB 2186 by Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Palm Springs) – Vehicles: impoundment
    • AB 2807 by Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) – Vehicles: sideshows and street takeovers
    • AB 3085 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Vehicles: removal and impoundment

    Stronger enforcement. Serious penalties. Real consequences.

    Today’s signing follows the Governor’s recent signing of landmark legislation providing law enforcement and prosecutors with additional tools to arrest and prosecute criminals for smash-and-grabs, retail theft, auto burglaries, and other property crime. While California’s crime rate remains near historic lows, these laws help California adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable.

    Recent news

    Sep 23, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, to require every school district, charter school and county office of education to develop a policy limiting the use of smartphones by July 1, 2026….

    Sep 23, 2024

    News What you need to know: California is launching a campaign to empower one million Californians to take climate action in their communities.  SACRAMENTO – During Climate Week, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new state initiative to mobilize one million…

    Sep 22, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills: AB 262 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Children’s camps: safety and regulation.AB 460 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – State Water…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor awards more than $7.4 million to continue disaster recovery after California’s severe winter storms in 2023

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of more than $7.4 million to support continued disaster-relief employment and workforce training for California residents affected by severe winter storms that occurred in late 2022 and early 2023. 

    On April 13, 2023, the department announced a National Dislocated Worker Grant of up to $22 million – with an initial award of $7.4 million – for the California Employment Development Department to provide people with temporary jobs focused on debris removal, water damage cleanup and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need after the storm. Funding also supports career and training services.

    Between Dec. 27, 2022, and Jan. 31, 2023, a series of winter storms and atmospheric rivers swept through California and caused damage in 51 of the state’s 58 counties. The storms produced flooding and mudslides, toppled trees, created sinkholes and damaged public and private lands. The Federal Emergency Management Agency issued a major disaster declaration on Jan. 14, 2023, enabling California to request federal assistance for recovery efforts. 

    Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, and supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, National Dislocated Worker Grants provide funding assistance to temporarily expand the service capacity of dislocated worker programs at the state and local levels when large, unexpected economic events cause significant job losses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs legislation to limit the use of smartphones during school hours

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 23, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, to require every school district, charter school and county office of education to develop a policy limiting the use of smartphones by July 1, 2026.

    Sacramento, California – Building on his calls for school districts to restrict the use of smartphones on school campuses, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, to require every school district, charter school and county office of education to adopt a policy limiting or prohibiting the use of smartphones by July 1, 2026. Authored by Assemblymembers Josh Hoover, David Alvarez, Josh Lowenthal, and Al Muratsuchi, the bipartisan legislation will support the mental health, academic success, and social wellbeing of California’s students.

    “We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues – but we have the power to intervene. This new law will help students focus on academics, social development, and the world in front of them, not their screens, when they’re in school.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “Reducing phone use in schools is essential for minimizing digital distractions and making space for stronger and more meaningful in-person connections. AB 3216 isn’t only about classroom instruction, it’s about protecting the mental health and social and emotional well-being of California’s kids.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    How we got here

    In 2019, Governor Newsom signed AB 272 (Muratsuchi) into law, which specified that school districts have the authority to regulate the use of smartphones during school hours. This legislation was a crucial first step in efforts to minimize distractions and foster a more conducive environment for our students to learn. In June, the Governor announced efforts to restrict the use of smartphones during the school day.
     

    Maintaining student safety

    The development of the policies will involve significant stakeholder participation to ensure they are responsive to the unique needs and desires of the local students, parents and educators and must allow students to use their phones in the case of an emergency, or in response to a perceived threat of danger, or as allowed by a teacher, administrator, doctor or the student’s individualized education program. 

    Why this matters

    Excessive smartphone use among youth is linked to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. A recent Pew Research Center survey found that 72% of high school and 33% of middle school teachers report cell phone distractions as a major problem. Common Sense Media found that 97% of students use their phones during the school day for a median of 43 minutes. Combined with the U.S. Surgeon General’s warning about the risks of social media, it is urgent to provide reasonable guardrails for smartphone use in schools.

    Supporting smartphone free classrooms

    Assemblyman Josh Hoover: “I appreciate the leadership of Governor Newsom and our bipartisan coalition of legislators that worked together to make the Phone-Free Schools Act a reality. AB 3216 is a major victory for protecting and improving the mental health and academic outcomes of students across California,” said Assemblyman Josh Hoover. “Research continues to demonstrate the potential harms of smartphone use among children. The growing use of these devices in a child’s everyday life can contribute to lower test scores, anxiety, depression, and even suicide. I am proud our state is taking action to limit the use of smartphones during the school day and protect kids from these harms.”

    Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, Chair of the Assembly Education Committee: “I thank the Governor for signing AB 3216. California school districts should place limits on student smartphone use on campus during school hours, unless approved by teachers or administrators for academic, emergency, or other purposes.  In 2019, I authored Assembly Bill 272, to encourage school districts to consider such limits.  Since then, growing research shows excessive smartphone use not only interfering with learning but also contributing to teenage anxiety, depression, and cyberbullying.  All school districts should develop their own appropriate policy to balance appropriate student use of smartphones at school with curbing the impact of excessive smartphone use on a student’s educational, social, and emotional well-being.”

    State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond: “AB 3216 represents an important opportunity to address the mental health of our students by restricting smartphones in schools. I have directly engaged with our students, parents, and educators as we have explored the need for this important change.  I will continue to make sure that we hear the voices of our young people, their families, and our hardworking school staff as we implement smartphone restrictions across the state.”

    Statewide efforts to support youth mental health

    California is transforming our entire mental health and substance use disorder system, with a special focus on youth. For the youngest Californians, Governor Newsom developed the Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health to provide every Californian aged 0-25 with increased access to mental health and substance use disorder supports. The Master Plan also includes the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), a historic investment by the State of California that takes a “whole child” approach to address the factors that contribute to the mental health and well-being of our children and youth.

    Recent news

    Sep 23, 2024

    News What you need to know: California is launching a campaign to empower one million Californians to take climate action in their communities.  SACRAMENTO – During Climate Week, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new state initiative to mobilize one million…

    Sep 22, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills: AB 262 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Children’s camps: safety and regulation.AB 460 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – State Water…

    Sep 21, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation to provide more safety, care, and accountability for services that help older adults and their families thrive, as more Californians live longer lives. This action further advances California’s…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Gov. Green Will Seek $45 Million in Additional Welfare Relief for Hawaiʻi Families

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA

    GOVERNOR GREEN WILL SEEK $45 MILLION IN ADDITIONAL WELFARE RELIEF FOR HAWAIʻI FAMILIES

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    September 23, 2024

    The state of Hawai‘i will implement rule changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that are expected to generate an additional $45 million in benefits for Hawai‘i’s struggling families.

    The changes — prompted by a recent study by the University of Hawai‘i Economic Research Organization (UHERO) — mean that an extra 13,000 to 14,000 households will be eligible for an average of $3,200 a year in SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps.

    “This is going to provide a huge relief for our working-class families who are struggling with Hawai‘i’s highest-in-the-nation cost of living,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. “In identifying a critical opportunity for our SNAP program, UHERO’s research team is enabling us to make much-needed changes to our social welfare system so that families living from paycheck to paycheck can afford to put more food on their tables.”

    In Hawai‘i, SNAP is one of the largest welfare programs available to low-income families. Currently, a family of four can receive as much as $1,759 a month in SNAP benefits. In a typical month, the total value of SNAP benefits in Hawai‘i exceeds $60 million.

    For decades, the SNAP eligibility criteria were controlled by the federal government. Following changes to the program in 2000, states were given more flexibility to adjust the eligibility rules by establishing a program of “broad-based categorical eligibility” (BBCE). Through BBCE, states were able to eliminate asset limits, which prevented households with high savings from receiving SNAP benefits. BBCE also allows states to raise limits on the amount of income households can receive and still qualify for SNAP.

    According to UHERO, eliminating another income criteria known as the “net income limit” will expand the number of Hawaiʻi households receiving SNAP benefits by 13,000 to 14,000. (“Net income” in the SNAP program is defined as the total monthly household income after deducting certain non-food household expenses like rent, utilities, medical costs, childcare costs and others. Before BBCE, households needed to have a net income below the federal poverty line to qualify for SNAP benefits.)

    Also according to UHERO, eliminating this limit will add little overhead: The state only needs to pay half of the additional administrative costs associated with the additional SNAP cases that would result. In 2019, Hawai‘i’s share of SNAP administrative costs was only about 5.6% of the amount of SNAP benefits that the state paid out to Hawai‘i families.

    “This decision has far-reaching implications,” said Dylan Moore, a co-author of the UHERO report. “This change may further increase benefit payments by making it easier for households to understand whether they are eligible for SNAP.”

    The Hawai‘i Public Health Institute’s Social Impact Policy Manager Nate Hix co-authored the report.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:   
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Phone: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected]

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: **UPDATE** News Release – Missing Work Furlough Inmate arrested, returned to custody

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    **UPDATE** News Release – Missing Work Furlough Inmate arrested, returned to custody

    Posted on Sep 23, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION

    KA ‘OIHANA HOʻOMALU KALAIMA A HOʻOPONOPONO OLA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    TOMMY JOHNSON

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

     

     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Sept. 23, 2024

    UPDATE: Missing Work Furlough Inmate arrested, returned to custody

    HONOLULU — O‘ahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) work furlough inmate Bobby M. Cotton is back in custody after sheriff’s deputies arrested him at The Queen’s Medical Center Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.

    Cotton, 51, failed to return to OCCC Module 20 from his job-seeking pass by 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024. Sheriffs and the Honolulu Police Department were notified.

    Cotton sought medical care at Queen’s Saturday and someone recognized him. Sheriffs were called and sheriff’s deputies subsequently arrested him at the hospital. He was returned to custody at OCCC at approximately 2:25 p.m. Saturday.

    Cotton is serving time for second-degree robbery. He may now face an additional second-degree escape charge. Second-degree escape is a Class C felony that is punishable by up to five years in prison, if convicted.

    Cotton is a community custody inmate in the work furlough program with pass privileges. Community custody is the lowest classification status.

    ### 

    Media Contact:

    Rosemarie Bernardo

    Public Information Officer

    Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

    Office: 808-587-1358

    Cell: 808-683-5507

    Email: [email protected]

    Website: https://dcr.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News release on CRB found in Waikoloa

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News release on CRB found in Waikoloa

    Posted on Sep 23, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

    ʻOIHANA MAHIʻAI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KIAʻĀINA
                                                                            

    SHARON HURD
    CHAIRPERSON

    HAWAI`I BOARD OF AGRICULTURE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                               

    NR24-28

    September 21, 2024

    COCONUT RHINOCEROS BEETLE FOUND IN WAIKOLOA TRAP

    HONOLULU – A single coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) has been found in a trap this week by the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) during routine monitoring in Waikoloa on Hawai‘i Island. This is the first detection of CRB on the island since October 2023 when a Waikoloa resident reported finding a total of six grubs (larvae) in a decaying palm tree stump. The trap that the CRB was found in this week is located about 200 yards from the earlier detection.

    HDOA set 30 traps around Waikoloa and has been conducting routine monitoring with the assistance of volunteer area residents. The Big Island Invasive Species Committee has set additional traps, as has the University of Hawai‘i, whose traps have cameras that allow real-time monitoring.

    The pheromone traps are used for early detection of infestations. The traps do not attract all CRB in the area and are not effective as an eradication method. Surveillance for CRB has been ongoing on all islands, including traps at airports, harbors and other strategic locations.

    HDOA and CRB Response teams are now focusing on eradication efforts in the area where the beetle was found. Initial surveys in the immediate area did not detect obvious signs of CRB damage in palm trees.

    “CRB surveillance on Hawai‘i Island has been ongoing and early detection is key to prevent the establishment of breeding populations,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture. “We ask everyone to keep an eye out for CRB, especially in their compost and mulch piles which are major breeding grounds of the beetle.”

    Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. An adult beetle is about 2-inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head. CRB grubs live in decomposing plant and animal waste. Adult CRB prefer to feed on coconut and other larger palms and are a major threat to the health of these plants.

    Residents may go to the CRB Response website at:  https://www.crbhawaii.org/ to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at (808) 643-PEST (7378).

    The CRB is a large scarab beetle that was first detected on O‘ahu in 2013. The beetle has since been detected in many neighborhoods on O‘ahu and was detected on Kaua‘i in May 2023, where collaborative eradication efforts continue. CRB grubs were found in Kīhei, Maui, in November 2023, but have not been detected on the island since.

    CRB is a serious pest of palm trees, primarily coconut palms, as the adult beetles bore into the crowns of the palms to feed on the trees’ sap. New unopened fronds are damaged in this way and when fully opened, may break and fall unexpectedly. If CRB kill or damage the growing point of the palm, the tree may die. Secondary fungal or bacterial pathogens may also attack the wounds caused by CRB, thereby killing the tree as well. Tree mortality after CRB attack has been reported to be anywhere from 10 percent to 50 percent. Dead trees then become a safety hazard as they may fall unexpectedly after the trunk rots, potentially resulting in bodily injury or property damage.

    CRB is a major pest of palms in India, the Philippines, Palau, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Nukunono, American and Western Samoa and Guam. It is still not known exactly how the beetles arrived in Hawai‘i.

    ###

    Media Contact:
    Janelle Saneishi, Public Information Officer
    Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
    Phone: 808-973-9560
    Cell: 808-341-5528
    [email protected]
    http://hdoa.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Biographical notices

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Karen Mollica (BA Honours [Political Science], McMaster University, 2000; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 2003) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003 after completing internships in Guyana and Costa Rica.

    Karen Mollica (BA Honours [Political Science], McMaster University, 2000; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 2003) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003 after completing internships in Guyana and Costa Rica. Her early assignments included serving as coordinator of the Landmine Action Team and as a case officer for several West and Central African countries. She then worked at the Canadian International Development Agency, serving as First Secretary at the High Commission in South Africa and as Counsellor and Head of Cooperation at the Embassy in Jordan. Upon her return to headquarters in 2019, she was appointed Director of Policy, Planning and Operations for Latin America and the Caribbean, a position she held until 2022. Most recently, she served as Director and Senior Ministerial Advisor in the Office of the Minister of International Development and Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy to the Holy See.

    Ajit Singh (BA [Communications], University of Winnipeg, 2003; BA Honours [Political Science], University of Winnipeg, 2004; MA [International Law], United Nations University for Peace, 2006; JD, Osgoode Hall Law School, 2012) has lived, studied and worked in a multilingual environment in 6 countries on 4 continents. He joined the Government of Canada in 2008 after working in media, education, the United Nations and civil society organizations. He then practised private law in Toronto and was called to the Ontario Bar as a barrister. In 2013, he joined the Privy Council Office in the Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat. He subsequently worked at the Foreign and Defence Policy Secretariat, where he was responsible for relations with Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia and Latin America, as well as legal files. In 2017, he joined Global Affairs Canada as Deputy Director in the Foreign Policy Planning Division, where he led the Foreign Ministers’ Events team during Canada’s G7 Presidency in 2018. He then worked in the Conflict Prevention, Stabilization and Peacebuilding Division. In 2021, he joined the Department of National Defence as Director of Operations. He returned to the Privy Council Office in 2022, this time to become the first person to hold the position of Director of International Crisis Response.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Canadian Income PCC – Holding(s) in Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TR-1: Standard form for notification of major holdings

    NOTIFICATION OF MAJOR HOLDINGS (to be sent to the relevant issuer and to the FCA in Microsoft Word format if possible) i
     
    1a. Identity of the issuer or the underlying issuer of existing shares to which voting rights are attached ii: Middlefield Canadian Income PCC
    1b. Please indicate if the issuer is a non-UK issuer (please mark with an “X” if appropriate)
    Non-UK issuer X
    2. Reason for the notification (please mark the appropriate box or boxes with an “X”)
    An acquisition or disposal of voting rights  
    An acquisition or disposal of financial instruments X
    An event changing the breakdown of voting rights  
    Other (please specify) iii:      
    3. Details of person subject to the notification obligation iv
    Name Saba Capital Management, L.P.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) New York, United States
    4. Full name of shareholder(s) (if different from 3.) v
    Name Saba Capital Arcadia Master Fund, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital Bluebird Fund, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital Income & Opportunities Fund
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) United States
    Name Saba Capital CEF Opportunities 1, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital CEF Special Opportunities Master Fund 2, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital Income & Opportunities Fund II
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) United States
    Name Saba Capital Master Fund, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Stone Ridge Archimedes Sub-Master (Red) LP
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) United States
    5. Date on which the threshold was crossed or reached vi: 20/09/2024
    6. Date on which issuer notified (DD/MM/YYYY): 23/09/2024
    7. Total positions of person(s) subject to the notification obligation
      % of voting rights attached to shares (total of 8. A) % of voting rights through financial instruments
    (total of 8.B 1 + 8.B 2)    		 Total of both in % (8.A + 8.B) Total number of voting rights held in issuer (8.A + 8.B) vii
    Resulting situation on the date on which threshold was crossed or reached 0.000000 11.190668 11.190668 11916635
    Position of previous notification (if
    applicable)    		 0.000000 10.206889 10.206889  
    8. Notified details of the resulting situation on the date on which the threshold was crossed or reached viii
    A: Voting rights attached to shares
    Class/type of
    shares
    ISIN code (if possible)    		 Number of voting rights ix % of voting rights
    Direct
    (DTR5.1)    		 Indirect
    (DTR5.2.1)    		 Direct
    (DTR5.1)    		 Indirect
    (DTR5.2.1)
    GB00B15PV034 0 0 0.000000 0.000000
             
             
    SUBTOTAL 8. A 0 0.000000%
     
    B 1: Financial Instruments according to DTR5.3.1R (1) (a)
    Type of financial instrument Expiration
    date x    		 Exercise/
    Conversion Period xi    		 Number of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is
    exercised/converted.    		 % of voting rights
             
             
             
        SUBTOTAL 8. B 1    
     
    B 2: Financial Instruments with similar economic effect according to DTR5.3.1R (1) (b)
    Type of financial instrument Expiration
    date x    		 Exercise/
    Conversion Period xi    		 Physical or cash
    Settlement xii    		 Number of voting rights % of voting rights
    Total Return Swap 08/17/2024   Cash 11916635 11.190668
               
               
          SUBTOTAL 8.B.2 11916635 11.190668%
     
    9. Information in relation to the person subject to the notification obligation (please mark the
    applicable box with an “X”)
    Person subject to the notification obligation is not controlled by any natural person or legal entity and does not control any other undertaking(s) holding directly or indirectly an interest in the (underlying) issuer xiii  
    Full chain of controlled undertakings through which the voting rights and/or the
    financial instruments are effectively held starting with the ultimate controlling natural person or legal entity (please add additional rows as necessary) xiv    		 X
    Name xv % of voting rights if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold % of voting rights through financial instruments if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold Total of both if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold
    Boaz Weinstein      
    Saba Capital Management GP, LLC     11.190668%
           
           
           
     
    10. In case of proxy voting, please identify:
    Name of the proxy holder  
    The number and % of voting rights held  
    The date until which the voting rights will be held  
     
    11. Additional information xvi

    JTC Fund Solutions (Jersey) Limited, Secretary
    Place of completion Jersey
    Date of completion

    24-Sep-2024

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sailor in the Spotlight – HM1 Jose Navarro

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Sicily (Sept. 4, 2024) – Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jose Navarro, 25, from Bremen, Indiana, joined the Navy in 2016 to be part of something bigger than himself. He arrived at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in March 2023.

    “I show up and take care of my Sailors, day in, day out,” said Navarro, who was recently selected as U.S. Naval Medical Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Sigonella’s Senior Sailor of the Quarter. According to his leadership, Navarro has demonstrated exceptional leadership and worth ethic as the Human Resources department leading petty officer.

    Four junior Sailors have benefitted from Navarro’s mentorship; two have been promoted and two have earned college degrees. He has also managed more than 1,000 pieces of correspondence, more than 100 permanent change of station transfer transactions, ten awards boards, five awards ceremonies, and one command physical readiness assessment as the command fitness leader.

    “Petty Officer Navarro’s dedication and achievements exemplify his outstanding performance in his leadership role,” said Lt. Julius C. Wiseman III, human resources department head, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella. “Furthermore, he recently achieved the milestone of graduating with a Master of Healthcare Administration from Louisiana State University Shreveport.”

    In addition to his administrative duties, Navarro holds several collateral duties, including: serving as Morale, Welfare and Recreation president; supply officer; assistant command fitness leader; and command, pay and personnel administrator. Navarro feels these roles help the command improve and help Sailors.

    “Serving means making sacrifices to help others,” said Navarro.

    Navarro’s proudest achievement in the Navy is promoting quickly and proving to himself that he can get what he wants if he works hard for it.

    U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

    NAS Sigonella provides consolidated operational, command and control, administrative, logistical and advanced logistical support to U.S. and other NATO forces. The installation’s strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

    For more news and information from NAS Sigonella, visit https://cnreurafcent.cnic.navy.mil/Installations/NAS-Sigonella/ or https://www.facebook.com/nassigonella/.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: RAIR Technologies Accepted to Prestigious Denarii Labs Accelerator

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Wilmington, DE, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RAIR Technologies, the leading open-source platform for building Web3 applications, today announced it has been accepted into the protocol-agnostic Web3 tokenomics accelerator Denarii Labs, powered by leading Web3 advisory and early-stage VC RedBeard Ventures and mentorship directly from Futureverse. RAIR Technologies will use the comprehensive 12-week program to help refine its tokenomics as it begins to raise more funding and strengthen core technologies like the RAIRprotocol. 

    The Denarii Labs accelerator empowers Web3 innovators from conceptualization to execution with unparalleled expertise in crafting, refining and executing tokenomics and launch strategies over the course of its 12-week accelerator program. The accelerator’s very selective due diligence process ensures it only chooses and nurtures the best early-stage companies, sending a strong signal to the market.

    “We couldn’t be more proud to be accepted into this unique and elite program for the Web3 industry,” said Ed Prado, CEO of RAIR Technologies. “Denarii Labs will allow us to drill down on our tokenomics before we significantly expand both the technology and our partner base.”

    The Denarii Labs accelerator tailors members’ tokenomics to align with their business and marketing goals, including whitepaper creation, technical and development checks, and investor readiness with mentorship from Insomnia Labs, GSR, Tao Tao, Coinbase and Omniscia.  The program also offers top-notch legal and regulatory advice from the accelerator’s partners at leading technology business law firm Fenwick & West.

    RAIR Technologies last year participated in Sony’s accelerator, which eventually led to RAIR Technologies being announced as an infrastructure partner for Soneium, the blockchain recently announced by Sony.

    RAIR Technologies is paving the way for a more inclusive and collaborative future in the realm of decentralized application development. Among its offerings is the RAIRprotocol, which has been in active development since 2019 as an investor-backed, heretofore proprietary enterprise SaaS product. To learn more about RAIR Technologies visit https://rair.info.

    ABOUT RAIR TECH
    RAIR Technologies enables enterprises to seamlessly navigate asset creation, DRM security, royalty tracking, and marketplace trade and execution within a secure white-label environment. RAIR is driving innovation with its open-source RAIRprotocol. RAIRprotocol fosters scalability and innovation through a distinctive token licensing model that allows full access to the underlying RAIR Technologies source code.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PayMate Announces Intent to Acquire DigiAsia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Valuing DigiAsia at US $400 Million

    Introduces PayMate in Indonesia with Immediate Market Share Expansion, Targeting 2025 Public Listing

    MUMBAI, India and NEW YORK, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PayMate India (“PayMate”), a leading provider of B2B payments and services with reputable investors such as Visa & Lightbox, today announced that it has entered into a binding term sheet (the “Proposed Transaction”) for the potential acquisition of DigiAsia Bios Pte Ltd., Singapore, a leading Fintech-as-a-Service (FaaS) company in Indonesia and a fully owned subsidiary of DigiAsia Corporation (NASDAQ: FAAS) (“DigiAsia”).

    Under the terms of the Proposed Transaction, an enterprise valuation of US $400 Million for DigiAsia’s business has been determined. Additionally, post the Proposed Transaction, PayMate intends to invest up to US $25 Million in cash, the aggregate financing structure and terms will be finalized in mutual agreement. PayMate and DigiAsia will continue joint due diligence on both entities, identification of the right transaction structure, entering into definitive agreements and the necessary corporate and regulatory approvals of PayMate and DigiAsia which is expected to take up to 60 days. Subsequent to the closing of the Proposed Transaction, PayMate intends to initiate proceedings to list the combined entity in India.

    About PayMate

    PayMate India Ltd – a leading digital B2B payments company that empowers businesses of all sizes to enhance financial efficiency and streamline B2B payments. The platform simplifies and digitizes B2B payment processes, optimizing working capital, and ensuring timely supplier payments. PayMate’s solutions encompass Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Invoice Discounting, Cross Border and Embedded Finance. In FY24, PayMate processed USD 10.5 billion in transactions, serving over 522,000 customers worldwide. With a strong presence in India, CEMEA, and APAC regions, PayMate is the trusted partner for businesses seeking to streamline payment processes.

    For more information, visit https://paymate.in/ or follow us on LinkedIn.

    About DigiAsia

    DigiAsia is a leading Fintech as a Service (FaaS) provider operating a B2B2X model offering its complete Fintech solution in emerging markets. DigiAsia’s fintech architecture offers small and medium business enterprises (SMEs) comprehensive embedded finance APIs to streamline processes across the commerce value chain of distributors and customers. DigiAsia’s embedded fintech solutions equally address democratizing digital finance access that supports financial inclusion of underbanked merchants and consumers in emerging markets resulting in growth for enterprise business. The suite of B2B2X solutions provided by DigiAsia include, but are not limited to, cashless payments, digital wallets, digital banking, remittances and banking licenses. DigiAsia has recently established a strategic initiative to develop its embedded FaaS enterprise solution with AI capabilities in Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East, with plans for global expansion. For more information, please visit DigiAsia’s Corporate website here or Investor Relations website here.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “project”, “targets”, “optimistic”, “confident that”, “continue to”, “predict”, “intend”, “aim”, “will” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements concerning DigiAsia and the Company’s operations, financial performance and condition are based on current expectations, beliefs and assumptions which are subject to change at any time. DigiAsia cautions that these statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially depending on a variety of important factors such as government and stock exchange regulations, competition, political, economic and social conditions around the world including those discussed in DigiAsia’s Form 20-F under the headings “Risk Factors”, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Business Overview” and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. All forward-looking statements are applicable only as of the date it is made and DigiAsia specifically disclaims any obligation to maintain or update the forward-looking information, whether of the nature contained in this release or otherwise, in the future.

    PayMate Contact DigiAsia Company Contact:
       
    Vishvanathan Subramanian Subir Lohani
       
    Wholetime Director & Chief Financial Officer Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer
       
    91-22-2661 6178 646-480-0142
       
    Email: corporate@paymate.co.in Investor Contact:
       
      MZ North America
       
      Email: FAAS@mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: From AI Bounties to DEX 3.0: Orderly Network’s Pioneering Presence at TOKEN2049

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Web 3.0 liquidity layer, Orderly Network, proudly sponsored this year’s Singapore edition TOKEN2049, one of the most prestigious events for global leaders in the Web3 space. As a key player in Web3 trading, Orderly Network showcased its vision and cutting-edge innovations throughout the week across multiple events, highlighting its work in the convergence of AI and DeFi, and providing thought leadership into the evolving landscape of decentralized trading and the potential role these technologies may play in the future of Web3.

    A key meeting of minds in the emerging AI meets DeFi space, Orderly Network and Google Cloud teamed up last Tuesday, 17 September to host a cast of decision-makers and crypto KOL’s at their highly anticipated ‘Bounty Bash’ event. This collaborative initiative marked the announcement of the Orderly Network x Google Cloud Bounty – Unleashing the Power of AI Trading Agents program, developed in partnership with Google Cloud and Empyreal. The program is designed to empower developers to build AI agents capable of autonomously trading on Orderly’s decentralized infrastructure, contributing to the future of Web3 trading and decentralized finance by making it easier than ever for new users to gain results and confidence trading.

    A key highlight in the week was the keynote presentation of Orderly Network Co-Founder Ran Yi at the TOKEN2049 event. Entitled ‘DEXs 3.0 and the Transition from CEX to DEX’, in his address, Ran shared key insights into the evolution of DEXs and the forward path toward greater adoption. As a TradFi and DeFi veteran, Ran’s discussion explored his unique perspective on how the future of DEXs lies in combining the strengths of CEXs—such as intuitive user experiences, deep liquidity, high performance, and lower trading costs—with the inherent benefits of DEXs, including transparency, permissionless access, interoperability, and decentralized governance.

    This keynote presentation built on an overarching theme for the week – how centralized and decentralized worlds can work together to grow the space by producing more compelling solutions for users.

    At Caladan’s Liquidity Day event, in a panel discussion aptly named ‘The CEX and DEX Transition’, Ran had delved into the growing convergence between centralized and decentralized trading platforms. Discussing the potential for building a powerful DEX that could rival Binance in the decentralized space, he further emphasized the importance of fostering innovation while maintaining user trust and security.

    At Morph Consumer Day, Ran joined a star-studded cast that included well-known trader and Orderly supporter Nani XBT on stage to discuss ‘The Future of Consumer DeFi & Stablecoins’. In this session, Ran delved into the growing convergence between centralized and decentralized trading platforms, examining the role of DeFi and stablecoins in shaping the next generation of consumer-facing financial services.

    To conclude a week of engaging discussions and transformative ideas, Orderly Network also co-hosted the official TOKEN2049 afterparty, AFTER2049, joining forces with several other prominent projects in celebrating the successes of the event and fostering deeper connections within the community.

    Supporting imagery can be found here

    For more information on the Orderly Network and its innovative solutions for liquidity, please visit https://orderly.network/

    About Orderly Network

    Orderly Network is a cloud liquidity infrastructure for Web3 trading. Built on omnichain architecture, Orderly enables deep liquidity for any asset across multiple blockchains. Focused on a future of DeFi that’s open to all, Orderly empowers developers to fluidly create a comprehensive array of financial products for any level of trader, without the risks of wrapped asset movement through cross-chain bridging.

    Learn more at orderly.network

    For PR enquiries related to this release, please contact pr@orderly.network

    Official Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord | LinkedIn

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Eightco Regains Compliance with Nasdaq Listing Requirements

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Easton, PA, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eightco Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: OCTO) (the “Company” or “Eightco”) today announced that the Company received formal notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) that the Company has regained compliance with Nasdaq’s minimum bid price requirement (the “Bid Price Requirement”) set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2), as well as Nasdaq’s stockholders’ equity requirement (“Equity Requirement”) set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1).

    To regain compliance with the Bid Price Requirement, the Company’s Common Stock was required to maintain a minimum closing bid price of $1.00 or more for a minimum of 10 consecutive trading days. The Notice confirmed that the Company’s Common Stock maintained a closing bid price above $1.00 for the last 20 consecutive trading days. Accordingly, this requirement had been met.

    The notice also indicated that the Company had reported stockholders’ equity of $13,428,553 in its recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, which exceeded the required minimum stockholders’ equity of $2,500,000. As a result, the Company had also regained compliance with the Equity Requirement.

    The Company’s Common Stock will continue to trade on The Nasdaq Capital Market tier of Nasdaq under the symbol “OCTO”.

    About Eightco

    Eightco (NASDAQ: OCTO) is committed to growth of its subsidiaries, made up of Forever 8, an inventory capital and management platform for e-commerce sellers, and Ferguson Containers, Inc., a provider of complete manufacturing and logistical solutions for product and packaging needs, through strategic management and investment. In addition, the Company is actively seeking new opportunities to add to its portfolio of technology solutions focused on the e-commerce ecosystem through strategic acquisitions. Through a combination of innovative strategies and focused execution, Eightco aims to create significant value and growth for its portfolio companies and stockholders.

    For additional information, please visit www.8co.holdings

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact could be deemed forward looking. Words such as “plans,” “expects,” “will,” “anticipates,” “continue,” “expand,” “advance,” “develop” “believes,” “guidance,” “target,” “may,” “remain,” “project,” “outlook,” “intend,” “estimate,” “could,” “should,” and other words and terms of similar meaning and expression are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such terms. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: Eightco’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq’s continued listing requirements; unexpected costs, charges or expenses that reduce Eightco’s capital resources; Eightco’s inability to raise adequate capital to fund its business; Eightco’s inability to innovate and attract users for Eightco’s products; future legislation and rulemaking negatively impacting digital assets; and shifting public and governmental positions on digital asset mining activity. Given these risks and uncertainties, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. For a discussion of other risks and uncertainties, and other important factors, any of which could cause Eightco’s actual results to differ from those contained in forward-looking statements, see Eightco’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including in its Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024. All information in this press release is as of the date of the release, and Eightco undertakes no duty to update this information or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of such statements to reflect future events or developments, except as required by law.

    For further information, please contact:
    Investor Relations
    investors@8co.holdings

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Freename Announces Plans to Apply for ICANN Top-Level Domains

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zürich, Switzerland, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Freename, a leading player in the Web3 domain registration sector, has officially announced its plans to participate in the upcoming ICANN gTLD (generic Top Level Domains) registration round. The company intends to apply for .chain, .token, .metaverse and a variety of other gTLDs. Freename will also submit applications on behalf of third-party customers in this new gTLDs round. While the names of these partners remain undisclosed at this stage, Freename confirms that these strategic collaborations have been carefully selected to maximize the impact and relevance of each top-level domain. These Web3 domain registrations will also have their replica in the Web2/DNS space to further expand their reach and utilities.

    Freename’s Strategic Partnerships and Leadership

    This important milestone is made possible by Freename’s solid position within the domain industry, where the company enjoys strong relationships with institutional players in the traditional domain market. Among its notable collaborations, Freename has partnered with the ICANN-licensed Registry ShortDot launching the JV called WebUnited, with the mission to enhance Web2 domains with blockchain utilities. These partnerships further strengthen Freename’s ability to apply for ICANN’s gTLD programs, reaffirming its leadership in the market.

    Freename is also the first Web3 Registrar with ICANN accreditation which sells and tokenizes traditional DNS domain names as well as Web3 domains. By combining its well-established expertise in Web3 with the new technology of domain tokenization, Freename continues to dominate the Web3 domain market, as evidenced by the 2024 statistics placing it as the top Registrar in the sector.

    Looking Ahead: New Opportunities

    As the next ICANN gTLD registration round approaches, Freename invites companies looking to secure their own personalized TLD to join this journey of growth and innovation. Interested businesses can apply through this dedicated form.

    About Freename: Freename is the leading multichain Web3 Namespace where users can register and mint their own Web3 domains on their preferred chain.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Diamondback Energy, Kinetik Holdings and EPIC Midstream Announce Transformative Transactions for EPIC Crude

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) (“Diamondback”), Kinetik Holdings Inc. (NYSE: KNTK) (“Kinetik”) and EPIC Midstream Holdings LP (“EPIC Midstream”), today announced a series of transactions to support the continued growth and strengthened financial profile of EPIC Crude Holdings, LP (“EPIC Crude”), an affiliate of EPIC Midstream, including:  

    • Diamondback and Kinetik (together, the “Partners”) acquired a 30% equity interest in EPIC Crude. The Partners now each own 27.5% of EPIC Crude.
    • EPIC Midstream continues to own a 45% equity interest in and manage the operations of EPIC Crude.
    • Diamondback is converting its existing commitment on EPIC Crude into a significantly larger volume commitment of 200 MBpd to accommodate additional crude barrels from Diamondback’s newly completed merger with Endeavor Energy Resources. As a result of that merger, Diamondback is the third largest crude producer in the Permian Basin.
    • Kinetik is also entering into a new transportation arrangement with EPIC Crude and a new connection between Kinetik’s crude gathering system and the EPIC Crude pipeline.
    • The combined long-term volume commitments from the Partners are expected to commence in 2025 and extend until 2035, fully supported by minimum volume commitments (“MVC”) and representing over 33% of EPIC Crude’s volume capacity.
    • EPIC Crude and its Partners are continuing to focus on reducing controllable costs and enhancing financial returns which will further maximize value for all stakeholders of EPIC Crude.
    • Taken together, these actions will position EPIC Crude for long-term success while increasing its long-term strategic alignment with Diamondback and Kinetik.

    EPIC Crude continues to transport more than 600 MBpd and has secured MVCs or contracts for approximately 90% of 2025 total volumes while substantially extending the weighted average contract life. EPIC Crude’s differentiated strategy helps its customers gain access to all markets and docks in Corpus Christi, in addition to the Dated Brent market through the EPIC dock.

    “Along with our execution over the past couple of years, these transactions position EPIC Crude for continued strategic and financial success,” said Brian Freed, Chief Executive Officer of EPIC Midstream. “The business continues to be transformed, and the strategic importance of this asset is supported by our Partners’ long-term commitments. EPIC Crude continues to be a critical asset for Permian Basin crude production egress to the Corpus Christi market.”

    “This series of transactions signifies a major step in ensuring reliable, cost-effective takeaway out of the basin for our expanded crude portfolio for a significant period of time, and positions EPIC Crude to be our preferred crude pipeline given our increased ownership stake and expanded governance role in the joint venture,” said Kaes Van’t Hof, President and Chief Financial Officer of Diamondback.

    “We are excited to partner with Diamondback, Ares Management funds and EPIC Midstream on these transactions,” said Jamie Welch, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kinetik. “Our volume commitment, alongside Diamondback, will generate incremental value for our crude customers seeking access to a premium market.”

    “Going forward, we believe EPIC Crude is even better positioned for shared business, customer and owner success,” said Robert Kimmel, Partner in the Ares Private Equity Group. “We remain excited to partner with Brian and his team in this transformative next chapter for EPIC Crude.”

    EPIC Crude’s financial profile continues to strengthen and is supported by continued improvement expected in its credit ratings. Its improving leverage, investment grade customers, and long-term contract profile provide a strong foundation for the business.

    EPIC Crude has the only remaining opportunity for a large-scale, highly economic crude oil pipeline expansion in the Permian. The potential expansion project is highly economic given its limited capital requirements, mostly focused on additional pumps for the existing pipeline. EPIC Crude anticipates the potential expansion project will be carried out with fully underwritten contracts, with the Partners having an option for approximately one-third of the expansion capacity.

    About EPIC Midstream

    EPIC was formed in 2017 to build, own and operate midstream infrastructure in the Delaware, Midland and Eagle Ford basins. EPIC’s Crude Oil Pipeline and NGL Pipeline each span approximately 700 miles and transport crude and natural gas liquids for delivery from the Permian and Eagle Ford basins into the Corpus Christi market. The Crude Oil Pipeline connects to the Port of Corpus Christi, including EPIC’s Marine Terminal, third-party export terminals and local refineries. EPIC’s NGL Pipeline has connectivity to EPIC’s operated fractionation complex in Robstown, Texas as well as Gulf Coast refiners, petrochemical companies and export markets. EPIC is a portfolio company of funds managed by the Private Equity Group of Ares Management. For more information, visit www.epicmid.com.

    About EPIC Crude

    EPIC Crude Holdings, LP (“EPIC Crude”) was formed in 2017 to build and operate the EPIC Crude Oil Pipeline, a 700-mile, 30” crude oil pipeline that extends from Orla, Texas to the Port of Corpus Christi and services the Midland, Delaware and Eagle Ford basins. The Crude Oil Pipeline is currently operating at a capacity of greater than 600,000 barrels per day (bpd) and has a maximum capacity of 1,000,000 bpd, as well as total operational storage of approximately 7,500,000 barrels. EPIC Crude includes terminals in Orla, Pecos, Saragosa, Crane, Wink, Midland, Helena and Gardendale, with Port of Corpus Christi connectivity and export access.

    About Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves primarily in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.

    About Kinetik Holdings Inc.

    Kinetik is a fully integrated, pure-play, Permian-to-Gulf Coast midstream C-corporation operating in the Delaware Basin. Kinetik is headquartered in Houston and Midland, Texas. Kinetik provides comprehensive gathering, transportation, compression, processing and treating services for companies that produce natural gas, natural gas liquids, crude oil and water. Kinetik posts announcements, operational updates, investor information and press releases on its website, www.kinetik.com. 

    Investor and Media Contacts:

    EPIC Midstream Holdings, LP
    Mike Garberding
    Chief Financial Officer        
    (346) 231-1776
    mike.garberding@epicmid.com

    Kinetik
    Alex Durkee
    Investor Relations        
    (713) 574-4743
    adurkee@kinetik.com

    Diamondback
    Adam Lawlis
    Investor Relations
    (432) 221-7467
    alawlis@diamondbackenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco Expands its Victory TCAD and Digital Twin Modeling Platform to Planar CMOS, FinFET and Advanced CMOS Technologies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO, “Silvaco” or the “Company”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation, today announced that its 2024 TCAD Baseline Release simulation platform with digital twin modeling, provides support for planar CMOS, FinFET and Gate-All-Around (GAA) transistor technologies, enabling semiconductor companies to accelerate technology development.

    Silvaco’s latest TCAD technology platform, enables advanced CMOS Process and Device simulation to support the development of next-generation semiconductor devices. This platform boosts performance, yield and efficiency across the evolving semiconductor design and manufacturing landscape. The solution enables highly accurate 3D process simulation, using digital twin-like precision and integrates stress simulation to model deformed structures. Additionally, the platform supports cryogenic applications through an atomistic quantum transport approach, enabling straightforward modeling of transistor structures down to 1 Kelvin.

    “Our TCAD platform has gained significant traction in the Display, Photonics, Memory and Power Semiconductor markets, where our solutions have been instrumental in driving innovation and enhancing performance,” said Dr. Babak Taheri, Chief Executive Officer, Silvaco. “We have now extended our comprehensive suite of tools to the advanced CMOS market, enabling next-generation advancements in technologies to address growing markets such as foundries, 5G, AI and high-performance computing. Our newly released TCAD platform has been utilized by a strategic customer for the past few years and is now available for broad market adoption. This new capability for advanced CMOS technology enables customers to accelerate their technology development with significant cost savings.”

    “Nanotechnology, like GAA, exhibits advanced quantum physical effects,” said Tillmann Kubis, Associate Professor in the Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Purdue University. “Over the past six years, our team of scientists has collaborated with Silvaco to enable the simulation of full devices, such as nanowires and GAAs, powered by NEMO5 which is an NEGF-based atomistic quantum transport simulation tool developed at Purdue and licensed by Silvaco. This collaboration is now enabling Silvaco’s TCAD simulation performance with atomistic accuracy.”

    “This latest release of our TCAD platform is the culmination of years of intensive development, refinement and industry collaboration in order to meet the demanding needs of designing in advanced CMOS process technologies,” said Eric Guichard, Senior VP and General Manager TCAD Business Unit, Silvaco. “The latest release of our TCAD platform now incorporates digital twin modeling for CMOS technologies, as well as atomistic simulation technologies to provide a highly competitive and attractive alternative solution for semiconductor companies designing in advanced Planar CMOS, FinFET and emerging GAA process technologies.”

    About Silvaco

    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high-performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” provisions of those sections. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s expectations, beliefs, intentions, plans, or strategies related to the release and adoption of its 2024 TCAD Baseline Release simulation platform, the anticipated benefits of this platform for advanced CMOS, FinFET, GAA, and other emerging technologies, and the potential advantages for customers in terms of performance, cost savings, and accelerated technology development. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “potential,” “continue,” and similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words.

    These statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including those described in the Company’s most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Media Contact
    Tyler Weiland
    +1 972-571-7834
    press@silvaco.com

    Investor Relations:
    Greg McNiff
    investors@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: The final cut: crank paper on NZ temperature record gets its rebuttal – warming continues unabated

    MIL OSI – Source: Hot Topic – By Gareth Renowden – Analysis published with permission of Hot-Topic.co.nz

    Headline: The final cut: crank paper on NZ temperature record gets its rebuttal – warming continues unabated

    Way back in the spring of 2014, NZ’s little band of climate cranks somehow managed to get a paper published based on their recalculation of New Zealand’s long term temperature record1. The effort – based on calculations done to support their infamous court case against the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), which they emphatically lost – purported to show that New Zealand’s long term warming rate was only a third of the amount previously calculated. As I pointed out at the time, it was riddled with errors and bad scholarship, but it appeared in the peer-reviewed literature2, and so required a peer-reviewed rebuttal.

    —

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: The Ben Bohane photo that Facebook censored on an article about Indonesia

    Source: Dr David Robie – Café Pacific – Analysis-Reportage:

    Headline: The Ben Bohane photo that Facebook censored on an article about Indonesia

    The original version of this photo, of West Papuan nambas (traditional penis gourds), which was published
    in the weekend edition of the family newspaper Vanuatu Daily Post and then by Asia Pacific Report,
    was deemed to have breached Facebook’s “community standards”. The photo was by award-winning
    photojournalist Ben Bohane, who lives in Vanuatu.

    BEN BOHANE: CHINA? NO, LET’S FACE THE

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: Chinese ‘baseless rumour’, Nauru ‘justice’ for refugees and Fiji diabetes

    Source: Dr David Robie – Café Pacific – Analysis-Reportage:

    Headline: Chinese ‘baseless rumour’, Nauru ‘justice’ for refugees and Fiji diabetes

    David Robie talks on 95bFM about current Pacific issues

    Reuben McLaren of 95bFM talks to Professor David Robie, director of the Pacific
    Media Centre at Auckland University of Technology, on the centre’s Southern Cross radio programme.

    David speaks about various upheavals around the Pacific, including the alleged Chinese military “base plans” for Vanuatu,
    Nauru abolishing its Appeal Court

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: ‘Free media’ week killings – but don’t forget crimes against Papuans

    Source: Dr David Robie – Café Pacific – Analysis-Reportage:

    Headline: ‘Free media’ week killings – but don’t forget crimes against Papuans

    “Save Papuan Journalists” – a theme poster from last year’s May 3 World Press Freedom Day event in Jakarta, Indonesia.
    West Papuan media freedom issues tend to be “lost” in the standard press freedom reports on Indonesia.
    Image: David Robie/Pacific Media Centre

    By David Robie

    MONDAY – just three days before today’s World Press Freedom Day – was the deadliest day for news media in

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: Free media week killings underscore crimes of impunity against journalists

    Source: Dr David Robie – Café Pacific – Analysis-Reportage:

    Headline: Free media week killings underscore crimes of impunity against journalists

    A press freedom protest in the Philippines capital of Manila over the latest killing of a radio
    journalist this week. Image: RSF

     By David Robie
    MONDAY – just three days before today’s World Press Freedom Day – was the deadliest day for news media in Afghanistan
    in 17 years. The killing of nine journalists and media workers among 26
    people who died in dual suicide bomb attacks in Kabul was

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: Nine out of ten targeted by scams, but New Zealanders getting more scam savvy

    Source: BNZ statements

    New research from Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) shows a significant jump in scam activity over the past 12 months, with nine out of ten New Zealanders targeted by a scam, up 13 percent on the same time last year.

    But while the volume of scams has surged, New Zealanders are getting more scam savvy, with only one in ten falling victim.

    The research comes as BNZ launches its annual Scam Savvy Week to raise awareness, help people know how to identify scams, and be safer online.

    BNZ’s Head of Financial Crime, Ashley Kai Fong, says, “While it’s fantastic that New Zealanders are learning to spot the red flags, the sheer volume of scams is a stark reminder for all of us to remain vigilant.

    “All scams require people to do something – whether that’s clicking on a link, engaging in a conversation, or sending money. Ultimately the best defence against scams is you. If you can recognise the signs of a scam, you’re less likely to fall victim. That’s why BNZ has developed tools and resources to help New Zealanders get scam savvy at www.getscamsavvy.co.nz.”

    Businesses getting “con-conscious”  

    Businesses have also improved their ability to identify and avoid scams, with the number of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) falling victim to scams dropping from 47 percent in 2022 to 34 percent in 2023.

    “Scams are a significant threat to our business community, but these figures show that SMEs are taking the right steps to protect themselves,” says Kai Fong.

    Despite the reduction, businesses are not being complacent. Reporting of scams to banks has seen a marked increase, with 60 percent of businesses scammed in 2023 reporting the incident, compared to 39 percent in the previous year.

    “This underscores the growing awareness among businesses of the importance of swift reporting and robust prevention measures. It’s a clear indication that the business community is recognising the threat posed by scammers,” says Kai Fong.

    More people reporting scams, but further progress needed

    Reporting by individuals also increased with 64 percent of individuals impacted by a scam reporting it, up from 46 percent last year.

    “Reporting scams is a crucial step in fighting fraud,” says Kai Fong. “It provides valuable data to help us understand and combat these threats more effectively, making it harder for scammers to operate.

    “It’s great that Kiwis are increasingly reporting scams, but there is still a lot of room for improvement. Too many of us don’t report scams, or even tell loved ones, due to embarrassment or shame, but we need to remember that this is a scammer’s fulltime job.

    “Every minute of every day, they are out there thinking of new ways to take people’s hard-earned money. There is nothing to be embarrassed about if you do experience a scam, and by reporting it, you could be helping someone avoid being scammed in the future.”

    Top three scams 

    Government impersonation scams were the most prevalent over the last 12 months (45%), followed by bank impersonation scams (31%), and fake lottery, prize or grant scams (24%).

    Email was found to be the most common channel for scams (40%), followed by text (34%), and social media (28%).

    “Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, impersonating trusted brands and institutions and exploiting a range of channels to deceive New Zealanders,” says Kai Fong.

    Despite the rise in scams, the research shows that educating New Zealanders to spot and avoid scams is helping to keep them safe.

    “Around two-thirds of those surveyed reported having seen educational material about scam prevention,” he says. “Knowledge is power. We want as many people as possible to get Scam Savvy as the more we know about scams, the better equipped we are to spot and avoid them.”

    Our Scam Savvy tools are available online at www.getscamsavvy.co.nz.

    Top tips to get Scam Savvy

    • Don’t click on links or open attachments sent by someone you don’t know or seem out of character for someone you do know. Hover over links to reveal the actual site.
    • If it doesn’t seem right, call the sender using contact details you already have or that are available on their public website.
    • Urgency is a red flag – scammers will try to rush you.
    • Banks will never ask for your bank account details, password or pin number, nor will they send you an email or text message with a link asking you to log in.
    • Keep your computer and phone security software up to date.
    • If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank as soon as possible.
    • Trust your gut – if it feels wrong, it probably is.

    Scam Savvy Research

    Other key findings from BNZ’s research:

    • One in ten New Zealanders have fallen victim to a scam in the last 12 months, losing money, personal information, bank or card details, or device access
    • Of those that lost money, two thirds (69%) lost under $500, 26 percent between $500 and $5,000, and five percent over $5,000
    • Email is the most common way to have fallen victim to a scam (40%), followed by text (34%), social media (28%), phone calls (18%), online websites (9%) or by someone you know (3%)
      • Those aged 15 – 34 years are more likely to have been targeted via social media (44%)
      • Social media and online website scams are harder for victims to recover stolen money, with 56 percent of victims who were targted via social media and 22 percent of victims targeted via an online website saying they couldn’t recover their money
    • Those over the age of 50 are more likely to be targeted by tech scam calls
    • One in ten males has responded to a dating or romance scam in the last 12 months, significantly higher than females
    • Females are more likely to be more concerned about their personal data online

    Business stats

    • 45 percent of SMEs reported being the target of scam attempts in the last year
    • Of those targeted, one third have responded to a scam attempt, by clicking on a link (15%), or replying to the scam via email, text, or phone call (14%)
    • Almost half (47%) of scam attempts are by email, with another 38% by text message. One third (33%) are by phone calling, with websites (19%) and social media (18%) rounding out the top 5
    • One in five (22%) of SMEs reported falling victim to a scam in the last 12 months
    • 43 percent of businesses that fell for a scam reported a financial loss. Of those, more than half lost less than $500, 38 percent between $501 and $5,000, and 11 percent lost more than $5,000. It is important to note that losses to scams are not just financial, and can include data loss, operational impacts, technical damage and/or reputational damage

    The post Nine out of ten targeted by scams, but New Zealanders getting more scam savvy appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: BNZ scores naming rights partnership with the NZ Breakers; teams up with Kiwi Hoops to grow grassroots basketball

    Source: BNZ statements

    The New Zealand Breakers, the country’s top professional basketball team, are set to embark on a new chapter as the BNZ Breakers, thanks to a new naming rights partnership with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ). The naming rights partnership was announced in Auckland this morning.

    In addition, BNZ is joining forces with Kiwi Hoops, Basketball New Zealand’s junior basketball programme, to help grow the sport at the grass roots level and foster the next generation of talent. These partnerships come hot on the heels of the bank’s naming rights sponsorship of the BNZ Northern Kāhu women’s basketball team, confirmed last month.

    BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says the bank is thrilled to back the Breakers and further cement its support for the sport. “From nurturing young talent in Kiwi Hoops, to bolstering women’s basketball with the Northern Kāhu, and now backing the premier professional team, the BNZ Breakers, our support is generational.”

    “Through these partnerships, we want to inspire the next generation and provide resources and opportunities that will help grow the sport, promote physical health, and foster a sense of community. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive ripple effects of these partnerships, from the school playground to the professional court.”

    Matt Walsh, majority owner of the Breakers, welcomed the new partnership. “We’re delighted to partner with BNZ, an organisation that shares our passion and commitment to basketball and the positive role it plays in schools and communities across Aotearoa. This partnership will provide us with the support to continue our success on the court and expand our programmes in the community.”

    “Our captain Tom Abercrombie is a shining example of how the Breakers is a pathway for local players to create a career out of basketball.  Tom went to school less than four kilometres from our club headquarters on Auckland’s North Shore and has travelled the world playing across the globe.

    “Next month he will play his record 400th game for the Breakers in our opening game of the season against the Cairns Taipans at Spark Arena.”

    The BNZ Breakers are actively involved in a range of community outreach initiatives, including their Champions Programme, teaching children aged 5-12 years about goal setting, nutrition, active lifestyles, and basketball fundamentals.

    Kiwi Hoops

    Kiwi Hoops is the Basketball New Zealand junior basketball programme. It aims to introduce the sport to young people, foster a love for the game, and develop skills. The partnership with BNZ will support the expansion of the programme, which already reaches 26,000 kids per year, to engage even more young people across New Zealand.

    Dillon Boucher, CEO of Basketball New Zealand, says, “By partnering with BNZ, we can expand our reach and impact, providing more opportunities for young Kiwis to engage with basketball. This partnership will not only help us grow the sport at the grassroots level, but also build a strong foundation for the future of basketball in New Zealand by developing the next generation of players.”

    Huggins concludes, “At BNZ, we’re committed to growing the social, cultural and financial wellbeing of New Zealanders, and believe in the power of sport to bring people together and inspire positive change. We’re proud to be part of the journey of basketball in New Zealand, and we can’t wait to see where these partnerships take us.”

    The post BNZ scores naming rights partnership with the NZ Breakers; teams up with Kiwi Hoops to grow grassroots basketball appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: HY24 Results: Resilient result in subdued economic environment

    Source: BNZ statements

    Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) today announced a statutory net profit of $762 million for the six months to 31 March 2024, a decrease of $43 million or 5.3% on the prior year.

    This reflects continued growth in BNZ’s lending and deposits, and an increase in operating expenses, up $64 million or 11.1%, as BNZ invested in its people and digital capability.

    BNZ CEO Dan Huggins says this is a resilient result in a subdued economic environment and the bank is in a strong position to continue supporting its customers.

    “High interest rates and cost of living pressures continue to impact business and household finances.

    “While easing inflation is encouraging, it is expected to remain outside of the Reserve Bank’s target band until the end of year. Economic conditions are likely to remain challenging until there is a material reduction in interest rates.

    “Supporting our customers through these challenging times remains our top priority.

    “Our teams continue to proactively contact customers who we have identified as potentially needing additional support. For customers feeling under pressure, our message is get in touch.”

    Revenue for the first six months was broadly flat at $1,770 million, while Net Interest Margin dropped by eight basis points on the prior year, reflecting strong competition across the banking sector and a change in deposit mix as customers shifted funds into term deposits to take advantage of higher interest rates.

    Mr Huggins says despite the challenging operating conditions, the bank has maintained momentum across the business.

    “Our team is focused on serving our customers brilliantly every day and supporting their ambitions, whether that’s investing in their business or buying their first, or next, home.”

    “This focus is paying off with more New Zealanders choosing to bank with BNZ.”

    BNZ’s total lending increased $2.4 billion or 2.4% in the first six months, with home lending up $1.1 billion or 1.9% and business lending up $1.3 billion or 3.0%. Total customer deposits increased by $1.5 billion or 1.9%.

    Innovating to make banking simpler and easier

    “We are always looking for new ways to integrate the latest technology into the way we work and how our customers’ bank to enhance their experience and make banking simpler and easier,” says Mr Huggins.

    “We continue to invest heavily in protection measures to help keep our customers safer online, while also delivering digital solutions designed to free up time in their busy lives.

    “Initiatives like our digital onboarding process which makes switching banks easier and faster for new customers by enabling them to open accounts digitally without having to go into a branch.

    “Similarly, Open Banking, which will allow customers to share their data safely with third parties and enable more personalised products and innovative services for customers.”

    BNZ has been leading the market in developing Open Banking APIs, with more than 250,000 BNZ customers already benefiting from secure budgeting and reconciliation tools and alternative payment options.

    “We’re committed to continuing to drive innovation across our business to provide more value to our customers,” says Mr Huggins.

    An unaudited summary of financial information for the six months ended 31 March 2024 follows:.
    .

    The post HY24 Results: Resilient result in subdued economic environment appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI Analysis –