NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AI Action Summit: Ensuring the development of trusted, safe and secure AI to benefit of all (Paris, 12.02.2025)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming our society, opening up unprecedented opportunities in many fields. For this technological revolution to benefit everyone, it is crucial to ensure its responsible and ethical development, with trust at its heart. AI raises major concerns regarding safety and security, as clearly demonstrated by the summits in Bletchley Park (United Kingdom – November 2023) and Seoul (South Korea – May 2024). Whether in anticipating extreme risks or addressing those already visible, a resolutely ambitious approach to building trust in AI is essential on an international scale.

    Technological advances in AI also offer exceptional possibilities in the field of security. With this in mind, the AI Action Summit is committed to promoting safe and secure AI, particularly by providing the necessary tools to mitigate these risks.

    For AI to fulfill its promises, a collaborative approach is essential. The AI Action Summit calls on public, private, and academic stakeholders to work together to build a trusted AI ecosystem.

    This global approach is based on three pillars: science, solutions, and standards. With a robust international scientific consensus on AI, the time has come to develop technical solutions that are open and accessible to all, while creating common international standards recognized by the entire ecosystem. This will help prevent fragmentation and encourage convergence at all levels.

    As part of the AI Action Summit, the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs and the General Secretariat for Defence and National Security have supported the action of the thematic envoy, Guillaume Poupard, to federate an ecosystem of stakeholders, both nationally and internationally, mobilised to strengthen the safety and security of AI.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Bay St. George RCMP stops vehicle and formulates grounds of drug impairment, driver refuses blood sample

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 29-year-old man is facing a criminal charge following a traffic stop that was conducted by Bay St. George RCMP on February 11, 2025.

    Shortly before midnight last night, Bay St. George RCMP stopped a vehicle on Main Street in Stephenville and suspected that the driver was impaired by a drug. Police observed a quantity of cannabis inside the vehicle, near the driver. The man initially refused to exit the vehicle. He was provided a demand to complete roadside sobriety testing and performed poorly. The driver was arrested for drug impaired operation and was provided a demand for blood samples. He was transported to the Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital in Stephenville and refused to comply with the demand.

    He now faces a charge of refusing to comply with a blood demand. The man is set to appear in court on April 7, 2025. His licence was suspended and the vehicle as seized and impounded.

    Refusing to comply with a demand issued as part of an impaired driving investigation is a criminal offence. If convicted, a charge of refusing to comply with a demand carries the same penalty as a conviction for a charge of impaired operation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Aiken Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Cody Lee Anderson, 37, of Aiken, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud in connection with the signing of a will of an 88-year-old woman who passed away in 2022.

    Evidence presented in court showed that sometime during the pandemic, a will was executed by a woman in Aiken that purported to leave the entirety of her estate, which was worth approximately $20 million to co-conspirator Thomas Allen Bateman, Jr. Anderson was designated as the personal representative and stood to be paid a fee of 5%. Evidence developed during the investigation indicated the 88-year-old woman did not have the mental capacity to make an informed decision regarding the disposition of her assets.

    Anderson faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a total of five years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.  Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Anderson at a future date after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.  Anderson’s co-conspirator, Bateman, previously plead guilty on Aug. 13, 2024, and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 3.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud unit (VAMPF). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Matthews and Winston Holliday are prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iraqi Forces Conduct Airstrike Against ISIS, Enabled by CENTCOM Forces

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Feb. 12, 2025
    Release Number 20250212-01
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    TAMPA, Fla. – On Feb. 10, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), enabled by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces, conducted precision airstrikes in the vicinity of Kirkuk, Iraq, killing two ISIS operatives.

    An initial post-strike clearance found the dead ISIS operatives, an explosive suicide belt, explosive material, and components of weapons destroyed in the strike.

    The ISF-led operation is part of the ongoing Defeat-ISIS campaign to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ capabilities, dismantle their attack networks, and ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS. Coalition Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CTF-OIR) enabled ISF during the operation by providing technical support and intelligence.

    ISIS remains a threat to the region and beyond, and CENTCOM, along with partners and allies, will continue to aggressively pursue these terrorists.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 90th INTERPOL General Assembly

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    18-21 October 2022, New Delhi, India

    The General Assembly is INTERPOL’s supreme governing body and comprises delegates appointed by the governments of our member countries.

    It meets once a year and takes all the major decisions affecting general policy, the resources needed for international cooperation, working methods, finances and programmes of activities. These decisions are in the form of resolutions.

    INTERPOL unveils first ever Metaverse designed for law enforcement at General Assembly.

    INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the opening of the 90th General Assembly.

    90th General Assembly.

    Police officers at 90th General Assembly.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock with members of the Executive Committee (2021/2022).

    Opening of the 90th General Assembly.

    Secretary General Jürgen Stock reading INTERPOL’s 2022 Global Crime Trend Report.

    90th General Assembly.

    This year, the General Assembly will meet for its 90th session in New Delhi, India. The agenda is expected to include presentations, workshops and discussions on the following subjects:

    The future of policing

    With our member countries, we are exploring diverse perspectives on the future of policing in an increasingly digitalized world. What are the challenges, how can we respond to threats posed by technology and how should we shape our vision for 2030?

    Policing today’s crimes

    Different panels will look at topical policing initiatives. This will include:

    INTERPOL’s Global Crime Trends Report

    This document provides member countries with an overview of the main crime threats in the world.

    Executive Committee Elections

    The General Assembly elects new members to the Executive Committee as the incumbents end their mandate. This year, two posts are up for election: the vice-president for Europe, and the delegate for Africa.

    INTERPOL’s Centenary

    In 2023, INTERPOL will celebrate 100 years since the founding of the International Criminal Police Commission, which then became INTERPOL in 1956. A series of activities are planned to raise awareness of the role of international policing; past, present and future.

    Police have been gathering to discuss international policing for 100 years – pictured here are delegates at the 2nd session of the General Assembly held in Berlin, Germany in 1924.

    Partnerships

    This panel will discuss how multi-stakeholder strategic partnerships can support law enforcement across the world to face the challenges in global security.

    Diversity

    INTERPOL is committed to increasing the geographical and gender diversity of its workforce so it can better reflect and serve its global membership.

    Workshops

    Different workshops will look at technology, innovation and global financial crime, giving participants the chance to share ideas in smaller groups.

    Host country: India

    We thank India and the officials from New Delhi for hosting this year’s General Assembly and welcoming our delegates from member countries. We recognize the time and effort it takes to put on an event of this scale.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters and Young Lead Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Federal Funding and Protections for the Great Lakes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Todd Young (R-IN) are leading bipartisan legislation to extend federal funding and protections for the Great Lakes. The senators introduced the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 to reauthorize the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) through 2031 and increase the program’s annual authorized funding levels from $475 million to $500 million. The GLRI is the most significant investment ever made to restore and protect the Great Lakes. The GLRI combines federal and nonfederal efforts to stop the spread of carp and other invasive species, restore coastline and habitats connecting streams and rivers, clean up environmentally damaged Areas of Concern, and prevent future contamination. While providing vital support for these efforts, the GLRI also helps ensure we can address new and emerging threats to the Great Lakes.  

    “The Great Lakes are a national treasure and central to our economy, environment, and way of life in Michigan. Since its creation, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative has made significant headway in cleaning up Areas of Concern, protecting vital habitats, and restoring coastlines around the Great Lakes Basin,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation will provide GLRI with the resources needed to build on that success and help protect and preserve the Great Lakes for future generations of Michiganders. I’m proud to again help lead the charge to strengthen this essential program.” 

    “The Great Lakes are an important part of Indiana’s ecosystem and economy,” said Senator Young. “The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is a results-driven program that addresses the most serious issues threatening the wellbeing of the Great Lakes basin, including toxic substances, pollution, debris, and invasive species. Reauthorizing this program will continue to protect and preserve these lakes for generations to come.”   

    The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jon Husted (R-OH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Fetterman (D-PA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

    Since its inception, the GLRI has spurred tremendous progress throughout the Great Lakes region including nearly half of a million acres of habitat protected, restored, or enhanced, a five-fold increase in the successful cleanup and delisting of Areas of Concern, a ten-fold increase in the remediation of environmental and public health impairments, and reducing the threat of harmful algal blooms. The GLRI’s efforts have also resulted in economic returns of more than 3 to 1 across the region. 

    “The simple fact is the GLRI funds critical projects that make life better for the millions of Americans that depend on the Great Lakes. It also delivers a positive economic return on the government’s investment in cleaner water and healthier communities. Senator Peters and Senator Young along with other Great Lakes senators have our gratitude for introducing this important bill,” said Joel Brammeier, Alliance for the Great Lakes President and CEO. 

    “The GLRI is a landmark program that is making significant progress in restoring the waters, ecosystems, economies, and communities that make up the Great Lakes region,” said Erika Jensen, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Commission. “The Great Lakes Commission applauds Senators Peters and Young for introducing this important legislation, which will safeguard the economic and environmental health of the Great Lakes region for generations to come.” 

    “This bill is a winner for millions of people in the region,” said Laura Rubin, Director of the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition. “We thank Sens. Gary Peters and Todd Young for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to tackle the serious threats to our region’s drinking water, public health, jobs, and quality of life. Federal investments to restore the Great Lakes have been producing results, but serious threats remain. We look forward to working with the Great Lakes congressional delegation to pass this bipartisan bill that supports common sense solutions. If we scale back investments now, the problems will only get worse and more expensive to solve.” 

    “The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative provides critical investments in the health of the Great Lakes and the communities and businesses that rely on clean water. Communities across the region realize the lasting benefits of clean and healthy lakes, which attract visitors, create jobs, and sustain the Great Lakes way of life,” said Peter Laing, Great Lakes Business Network Co-Chair.  

    The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 enjoys broad support from Great Lakes advocates, including the Council of Great Lakes Governors, Great Lakes Fishery Commission, American Great Lakes Ports Association, Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, American Sportfishing Association, Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, League of Conservation Voters, National Wildlife Federation, Sierra Club, National Parks Conservation Association, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, National Audubon Society – Great Lakes, Environmental Law & Policy Center, MI League of Conservation Voters, Save the Dunes, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Clean Wisconsin, Ohio Environmental Council, Western Reserve Land Conservancy, and Minnesota Environmental Partnership.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK leads major Ukraine Summit and announces £150 million firepower package

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Defence leaders from across the world have gathered in Brussels today as the UK convenes a major Ukraine summit at NATO HQ.

    • UK convenes the 26th Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels today – the first time the meeting has been chaired by a European nation – supporting UK and European security, a foundation of the Government’s Plan for Change. 

    • Defence Secretary confirms landmark half a million rounds of artillery ammunition – worth more than £1 billion – has now been provided to Ukraine by the UK 

    • New £150 million firepower package of military aid including drones, tanks and air defence systems will give Ukrainian soldiers fighting Russia the equipment they need.  

    Defence leaders from across the world have gathered in Brussels today as the UK convenes a major Ukraine summit at NATO HQ, demonstrating the UK’s leadership and unwavering military support for Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s illegal invasion.  

    Over 50 allies and partners, including Ukraine, the US, Japan and Australia, met for the 26th Ukraine Defence Contact Group, chaired by Defence Secretary John Healey, the first time for any European nation. 

    Opening the meeting, the Defence Secretary announced a new £150m military support package to support Ukrainian troops fighting Russia on the frontline, part of the UK’s unprecedented £3 billion annual pledge to Ukraine. 

    This year, the UK’s total commitment has reached its highest ever level, standing at £4.5 billion, ensuring Ukraine can achieve peace through strength and underscoring the new 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine. 

    Chairing the meeting, Defence Secretary John Healey said:   

    2025 is the critical year for the war in Ukraine. Ukrainians continue to fight with huge courage – military and civilians alike, and their bravery – fused with our support – has proved a lethal combination. 

    Speaking as a European Defence Minister, we know our responsibilities. We are doing more of the heavy lifting and sharing more of the burden. 

    While Russia is weakened, it remains undeniably dangerous.  We must step up further – and secure peace through strength – together.

    Speaking at today’s meeting, where he was joined by Ukrainian Defence Minster Rustem Umerov, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius,  French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Defence Secretary Healey confirmed that the UK has sent a landmark 500,000 rounds of ammunition to Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion, worth over £1 billion.  

    The Defence Secretary also confirmed that the UK is on track to provide more than 10,000 drones to Ukraine in a single year, with final deliveries due next month.  

    Today’s £150 million package includes thousands of drones, dozens of battle tanks and armoured vehicles and air defence systems.   

    More than 50 armoured and protective vehicles, including modernised T-72 tanks will be deployed to Ukraine by the end of spring, building on the thousands of pieces of equipment the UK has already given to Ukraine.   

    The air defence equipment will support more than 100 Ukrainian air defence teams, and has a 90% success rate of shooting down kamikaze drones, protecting Ukrainian critical national infrastructure including electricity sites frequently targeted by Russia. Announced by the Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Kyiv last month, the UK and Denmark are also providing fifteen Gravehawks to Ukraine.  

    Today’s package also includes major new maintenance contracts to support in-country repairs to critical kit – helping keep Ukraine’s tanks and artillery in the fight and bringing broken equipment back into use.  

    The Government is clear that the security of the UK starts in Ukraine and is therefore committed to Ukraine’s long-term security as a foundation for the government’s Plan for Change.  

    As part of today’s announcement, thousands of pieces of military equipment the UK has already donated to Ukraine will be repaired and better maintained through contracts worth around £60 million.  

    In a boost the UK’s economy, this includes a multi-million-pound contract with UK defence firm Babcock, who will train Ukrainian personnel to maintain and repair crucial equipment such as Challenger 2 tanks, self-propelled artillery, and combat reconnaissance vehicles inside Ukraine. Through this agreement, equipment can be serviced and returned to the front line quicker.  

    UK defence giant BAE Systems has also been awarded a £14 million contract, funded by Sweden and procured through the UK-administered International Fund for Ukraine, to repair Archer artillery systems. Working with Lancashire-based firm AMS, repairs of the Swedish-gifted Archer systems will be carried out in Ukraine with Ukrainian soldiers given technical training so they can maintain equipment for years to come.  

    Today’s announcement comes ahead of tomorrow’s NATO Defence Ministerial meeting, where Defence Secretary Healey will set out that in this critical year, nations must step up and back Ukraine with the resources they need to achieve long-term peace in the face of Russian aggression.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 February 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP, Kuwait Fund announce partnership to strengthen global food security efforts

    Source: World Food Programme

    Photo: WFP/Rein Skullerud. The signing ceremony, held in Rome at WFP’s headquarters attended by senior representatives from both organization

    ROME – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (Kuwait Fund) signed today a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the first formal partnership between the two organizations. This strategic agreement aims to enhance collaboration in addressing global food security challenges and supporting sustainable development initiatives.

    The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in key areas, including humanitarian assistance, resilience-building, and development projects in food-insecure regions. It underscores the shared commitment of WFP and Kuwait Fund to leverage their expertise and resources in support of vulnerable communities worldwide.

    “This milestone agreement with the Kuwait Fund is a testament to our shared vision of a world without hunger,” said WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain. “By joining forces to combine the Kuwait Fund’s expertise in development financing with WFP’s global operational reach, we will deliver impactful solutions that tackle the root causes of food insecurity and build long-term resilience.”

    The Kuwait Fund has played a pivotal role in financing development projects across multiple sectors, contributing to economic and social progress in developing countries. By joining forces with WFP, the Fund reinforces its commitment to humanitarian action and sustainable development.

    “Partnering with WFP allows us to expand our impact in tackling food security challenges and providing life-changing support to those in need,” said Director General of the Kuwait Fund Waleed Shamlan Al-Bahar. “This MoU reflects Kuwait’s enduring dedication to global solidarity and development cooperation.”

    The signing ceremony, held in Rome at WFP’s headquarters, was attended by senior representatives from both organizations, highlighting the importance of this collaboration. Moving forward, WFP and Kuwait Fund will work closely to translate this partnership into concrete initiatives that improve food access, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen resilience in communities facing crises.

    Notes to Editor:

    High resolution photos are available here

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter @wfp_media 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 12 February 2025 Departmental update Global convening to empower digital health transformation built on robust foundations

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On the sidelines of the World Summit on the Information Society +20 High-Level Event 27–31 May 2024, the Global Initiative on Digital Health convened global stakeholders governing, supporting and implementing digital health transformation for a multistakeholder dialogue in Geneva, Switzerland, from 28–29 May 2024. 

    WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus provided opening remarks at the World Summit on the Information Society +20 High-Level Event, alongside other global leaders, setting the stage for this significant event. 

    This first global convening of the Global Initiative on Digital Health was co-hosted by the Global Initiative on Digital Health, the Brazil G20 Presidency under the framework of the World Summit of the Information Society (WSIS) and Action line C7: E-Health. The event commenced with remarks from: 

    • Dr Alain Labrique, Director, Department of Digital Health and Innovation, World Health Organization
    • Ms Ana Estela Haddad, Secretary of Information and Digital Health of the Brazilian Ministry of Health
    • Ms Rachel Toku-Appiah, Director, Policy, Advocacy and Communication, Africa, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
    • Ms Monique Vledder, Head for Health, Nutrition and Population, World Bank
    • Mr Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General, the International Telecommunications Union.

    Participants included representatives from over 60 countries and 150 organizations across ministries of health and Information Communication and Technology, government agencies, bilateral agencies, philanthropic organizations, academia, civil society, private sector and technologists. Through both in-person and online participation – enabled with support from the International Telecommunication Union – participants shared their experiences and lessons learned with standards-based and country-led development of digital health architecture.​  

    The discussions focused on several critical topics, including: 

    • the role of digitalization in health financing and the need for digital public infrastructure in the health sector;
    • policy legislation and regulations that enable digital health adoption, data sharing and interoperability standards; 
    • the impact of internet connectivity and bandwidth, level of digital literacy and data governance on national digital governance; 
    • what constitutes a good digital health investment and how to track this;  
    • the opportunities for government-to-government collaboration to strengthen national governance of digital health transformation; 
    • the opportunity for public private partnerships for resilient digital health; and 
    • how to measure progress on the Global Strategy on Digital Health. 

    Key milestones included kick-off of the development of the WHO-ITU Digital Public Infrastructure Reference Architecture​ for Digital Health Transformation and the launch of data collection for the Global Digital Health Monitor and Complementary Report ​focused on the WHO Africa Region through a collaboration between WHO and Africa CDC. 

    The second GIDH global convening will be held at the end of May in Geneva, Switzerland. Visit the GIDH webpage for updates and information on how to get involved. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Snagit and Camtasia 2025 Introduce AI and Screentelligence-Powered Workflows for Faster, More Impactful Content Creation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EAST LANSING, Mich., Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TechSmith Corporation, an industry leader in visual communication, today released the newest editions of its award-winning Snagit and Camtasia products with advanced features focusing on simplifying workflows and improving capture and recording experiences. Snagit is an essential tool for professionals who capture, enhance, and share screenshots and videos, creating polished visual content that advances workplace communication and collaboration. Camtasia is an industry-leading screen recording, video, and audio editing solution to simplify the creation of high-quality tutorials, demos, training, and visual content. The 2025 versions are the final annual releases before TechSmith transitions to continuous delivery through its new subscription offerings.

    “We’ve enhanced Snagit and Camtasia with new AI and Screentelligence features to make it faster and easier for users to achieve their creative goals,” said Tony Lambert, CTO of TechSmith. “User feedback heavily inspired these improvements, helping us simplify and streamline our most popular workflows and features so users can create content with less effort and improve visual communication within teams and organizations. We’re excited to build on this foundation with continuous updates throughout the year.”

    Screentelligence leverages machine learning models and TechSmith’s proprietary algorithms to provide users with context-aware layout, design, and editing suggestions. By analyzing metadata locally, data never leaves the user environment for optimal speed and security.

    Snagit 2025 Features
    Snagit 2025 leverages AI and Screentelligence-powered features to perform nearly all of the creation work, allowing users to focus on refining content. The new features enhance creation speed and professional polish across everyday training, documentation, and workplace communications. With Snagit 2025, users can boost clarity, protect privacy, and engage their audience more effectively.

    • Step Capture: Quickly create visual how-to guides and step-by-step instructions by simply going through the process. Snagit captures the individual steps and clicks and automatically organizes them into a structured guide. This feature is ideal for HR and IT professionals, as well as team leads and managers who often document and share processes like how to use software or access files.
    • Smart Redact: Automatically detects and blurs, pixelates, or redacts nine types of sensitive information from an image including mailing addresses, credit card or phone numbers, and more from screenshots with a single toggle.
    • Background Noise Removal: Eliminates background noise on user audio in any environment. This feature is excellent for creating ad hoc videos in the office, at home, or in a coffee shop with none of the quality concerns.
    • Customizable Share Link (enterprise exclusive): Enables single-click share link functionality with existing corporate platforms and environments such as OneDrive or Google Drive.
    • Virtual Background Capabilities (Mac exclusive): Enables the blurring or changing of the webcam background during video recordings. Great for masking the cluttered home office or showcasing corporate branding while recording.
    • Corner Rounding: Easily round the corners of screen captures to give a softer, more modern aesthetic.
    • Instant Asset Access: Immediate retrieval of Snagit’s comprehensive Asset Library with one click of a button.

    Camtasia 2025 Features
    Camtasia 2025 delivers advanced AI and editing capabilities helping users effortlessly develop more polished and professional videos in a fraction of the time. The new features deliver a number of quality-of-life improvements that make it easier than ever to create and view tutorials, demos, and training content.

    • Background Noise Removal: Instantly removes all background noise to provide clear audio. The effect is automatically applied while using Rev and can be applied manually to any recording or video in the editor.
    • Dynamic Caption Editing: Manually adjust, add, or remove words and spaces in the dynamic captions feature instead of relying solely on the transcription.
    • Smarter, More Engaging Cursor Movements: Advanced cursor enhancements that improve clarity, engagement, and instructional value in videos.
      • Cursor Motion Blur: Smooths onscreen cursor movements for a more natural, polished look—minimizing visible hesitations or unnatural pauses made during screen recording.
      • Kinetic Cursor: Enhances cursor movement by dynamically pointing in the direction of the next click, guiding viewers’ attention more effectively. Focus indicators like this new feature were ranked in the top five most important characteristics of training videos in TechSmith’s 2024 Video Viewer Trends Report.
      • Cursor Elevation: Brings the cursor to the front of the screen so it is never hidden behind other annotations, layers, or effects.
    • AI Avatars (Camtasia Pro exclusive): Utilize a diverse selection of human avatars to deliver your message in video, ideal for training professionals seeking to localize and scale corporate training programs efficiently.

    To learn about subscription and single license pricing and details for Snagit 2025, visit https://www.techsmith.com/store/snagit. To view subscription and single license pricing for Camtasia 2025 Essentials, Create, and Pro product plans, visit https://www.techsmith.com/store/camtasia.

    About Snagit
    Snagit is an award-winning tool for professionals to create polished visual content for workplace communication and collaboration. With a radically simple approach, Snagit allows users to capture images or videos of their screen, annotate content for clear instruction, and share within any preferred platform for viewing and/or team collaboration. Snagit is used by all Fortune 500 companies and more than 39 million people across more than 190 countries. Connect with Snagit on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For more information, visit https://www.techsmith.com/snagit/.

    About Camtasia
    Camtasia is an industry-leading screen recording, video, and audio editing solution to simplify the creation of high-quality tutorials, demos, training, and visual content. With a rich, expansive, and flexible feature set, Camtasia has the lowest barrier of entry of any recording and editing software, helping users educate, inspire, and excite their audience with professional-quality videos. Its intuitive Camtasia Rev workflow guides users through various size, layout, background, effect, and filter choices, empowering users of all skill levels to quickly create professional quality videos. Camtasia is used by more than 34 million people globally, including all Fortune 500 companies like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon and Google. In 2024, Camtasia was rated a top 5 screen and video capture solution by G2’s community of reviewers. For more information, visit www.techsmith.com/video-editor.html. Connect with Camtasia on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and Instagram. For more information, visit https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/.

    About TechSmith
    TechSmith is the market leader in screen capture software and productivity solutions for daily in-person, remote or hybrid workplace communication and customer-facing image and video content. The company’s award-winning flagship products, Snagit, Camtasia, and Audiate empower anyone to create remarkable videos and images that share knowledge for better training, tutorials, and everyday communication. TechSmith creates easy-to-use software and provides expert training resources and unmatched support — making TechSmith the global leader for easily creating effective images and videos. To date, billions of images and videos have been created with TechSmith’s products by more than 73 million people across more than 190 countries. TechSmith is ranked as a top 10 company in G2’s Spring 2024 report and winner of a 2024 Training Magazine Network Choice Award. Connect with TechSmith on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook. For more information, visit www.techsmith.com.

    Media Contact:
    Ross Blume
    Fusion Public Relations
    techsmith@fusionpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bigbank AS Renewed the Powers of the Members of the Supervisory Board

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On 11 February 2025, the general meeting of Bigbank AS adopted a resolution to extend the powers of Vahur Voll, Juhani Jaeger and Andres Koern as Supervisory Board members of Bigbank AS for the next two years, beginning on 26 February 2025 until 25 February 2027.

    Bigbank AS (www.bigbank.eu), with over 30 years of operating history, is a commercial bank owned by Estonian capital. As of 30 November 2024, the bank’s total assets amounted to 2.7 billion euros, with equity of 271 million euros. Operating in nine countries, the bank serves more than 150,000 active customers and employs over 500 people. The credit rating agency Moody’s has assigned Bigbank a long-term deposit rating of Ba1, as well as a baseline credit assessment (BCA) and adjusted BCA of Ba2.

    Argo Kiltsmann
    Member of the Management Board
    Tel: +372 53 930 833
    Email: Argo.Kiltsmann@bigbank.ee 
    www.bigbank.ee

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trade Crypto with 100x Leverage on BexBack – Enjoy Double Deposit Bonus & $50 Welcome Gift – NO KYC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the price of bitcoin once again trading below $100,000, many analysts believe it will enter a long period of high volatility. Holding spot positions may not continue to generate profits in the short term. BexBack Exchange is stepping up its efforts to provide traders with irresistible preferential packages. The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and a 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, creating unparalleled opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. 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. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2c949916-63ec-49bf-8315-2789892a6ac5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/de06fad7-8bb9-464d-9bd2-fd5692f22049

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6d5c4ef7-2abb-4af2-a0f4-023c8b06d4e2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a4b88d21-dc6d-4073-b660-40c80c60cdbd

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance Plc Financial Statements Bulletin 1 January–31 December 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Financial Statements Bulletin
    12 February 2025 at 5:00 pm (EET)

    Municipality Finance Plc Financial Statements Bulletin 1 January–31 December 2024

    In brief: MuniFin Group in 2024

    • The Group’s net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes* increased by 2.9% (3.2%) in January–December and amounted to EUR 181 million (EUR 176 million). Net interest income* was at the same level as in year before and totalled EUR 260 million (EUR 259 million). Net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes was boosted by lower expenses and increased other income compared to the previous period.
    • Net operating profit* amounted to EUR 166 million (EUR 139 million). Unrealised fair value changes amounted to EUR -16 million (EUR -37 million) in the financial year. Unrealised fair value changes were influenced in particular by changes in interest rates and credit risk spreads in the Group’s main funding markets.
    • Costs* in the financial year amounted to EUR 81 million (EUR 82 million).
    • The Group’s leverage ratio remained at a strong level, standing at 12.3% (12.0%) at the end of December.
    • At the end of December, the Group’s CET1 capital ratio was very strong at 107.7% (103.4%). CET1 capital ratio was over seven times the required minimum of 15.0% (13.9%), taking capital buffers into account.
    • Long-term customer financing (long-term loans and leased assets) excluding unrealised fair value changes* totalled EUR 35,787 million (EUR 32,948 million) at the end of December and saw an increase of 8.6% (7.5%). New long-term customer financing* increased by 17.1% (0.0%) in January–December 2024 and amounted to EUR 5,056 million (EUR 4,319 million). Short-term customer financing* totalled EUR 1,825 million (EUR 1,575 million).
    • Of all long-term customer financing, the amount of green finance* aimed at environmentally sustainable investments totalled EUR 6,817 million (EUR 4,795 million), and the amount of social finance* aimed at investments promoting equality and communality totalled EUR 2,536 million (EUR 2,234 million) at the end of December. The total amount of this financing increased by 33.1% (41.0%) from the previous year. The ratio of green and social finance to long-term customer financing excluding unrealised fair value changes* grew by 4.8% percentage points to 26.1% (21.3%).
    • In 2024, new long-term funding* reached EUR 8,922 million (EUR 10,087 million). At the end of December, the total funding* was EUR 46,737 million (EUR 43,320 million), of which long-term funding* made up EUR 43,328 million (EUR 39,332 million).
    • The Group’s total liquidity* is very strong, standing at EUR 11,912 million (EUR 11,633 million) at the end of the financial year. The Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) stood at 341% (409%) and the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) at 124% (124%) at the end of the year.
    • In early 2024, MuniFin reviewed the future and development potential of the consulting services offered by its subsidiary company Financial Advisory Services Inspira Plc (Inspira) and decided to discontinue Inspira’s consulting services in summer 2024.
    • The Board of Directors proposes to the Annual General Meeting to be held in spring 2025 a dividend of EUR 1.86 per share, totalling EUR 72.7 million. The total dividend payment in 2024 was EUR 1.69 per share, totalling EUR 66.0 million.
    • Outlook for 2025: The Group expects its net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes to be at the same level or lower in 2025 as in 2024. The Group expects its capital adequacy ratio and leverage ratio to remain strong. The valuation principles set in the IFRS framework may cause significant but temporary unrealised fair value changes, some of which increase the volatility of net operating profit and make it more difficult to estimate.

    Comparison figures deriving from the income statement and figures describing the change during the financial year are based on figures reported for the corresponding period in 2023. Comparison figures deriving from the balance sheet and other cross-sectional items are based on the figures of 31 December 2023 unless otherwise stated.

    * Alternative performance measure.

    Key figures (Group)

      Jan–Dec 2024 Jan–Dec 2023 Change, %
    Net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes (EUR million)* 181 176 2.9
    Net operating profit (EUR million)* 166 139 19.5
    Net interest income (EUR million)* 260 259 0.3
    New long-term customer financing (EUR million)* 5,056 4,319 17.1
    New long-term funding (EUR million)* 8,922 10,087 -11.6
    Cost-to-income ratio, %* 27.7 32.2 -14.0**
    Return on equity (ROE), %* 7.2 6.6 9.3**
      31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023 Change, %
    Long-term customer financing (EUR million)* 35,173 32,022 9.8
    Green and social finance (EUR million)* 9,353 7,029 33.1
    Balance sheet total (EUR million) 53,092 49,736 6.7
    CET1 capital (EUR million) 1,646 1,550 6.2
    Tier 1 capital (EUR million) 1,646 1,550 6.2
    Total own funds (EUR million) 1,646 1,550 6.2
    CET1 capital ratio, % 107.7 103.4 4.2**
    Tier 1 capital ratio, % 107.7 103.4 4.2**
    Total capital ratio, % 107.7 103.4 4.2**
    Leverage ratio, % 12.3 12.0 2.5**
    Personnel 178 185 -3.8

    * Alternative performance measure.
    ** Change in ratio.

    Comment on the 2024 financial year by President and CEO Esa Kallio

    The operating environment in global economy and international politics went through a whirlwind of changes in 2024. Even in the turmoil, Finland stood steady and secure: our society is built on long-standing practices and institutions that have been developed together and tried and tested over time. This stability also helps safeguard MuniFin’s strong performance through shifts in the operating environment. Finnish society must continue to operate in broad collaboration and develop the structures of society in the long term. Sometimes this requires difficult decisions in society in the short term.

    In 2024, the demand for MuniFin’s financing was especially high in the affordable social housing sector. In the future, however, the sector will be facing reductions on interest subsidy loan authorisations.

    The Finnish system for affordable social housing is a success story that has served as a model across Europe – and will hopefully continue to do so, especially now that the rising cost of living has led to a surge in homelessness in many countries. Our state-subsidised housing production system has proven effective in reducing homelessness and regional segregation, increasing the supply of affordable social housing in growth centres, advancing municipalities’ housing policy goals of ensuring a diverse housing structure, and providing high-quality housing also to students, senior citizens and people with disabilities.

    Especially in the past couple of years, affordable housing production has also significantly supported the vitality of the Finnish construction sector, helping offset the slump in housing construction. Finland’s well-functioning system should not be changed; rather, the current model and level of housing production subsidies should be kept as they are. Timely investments into affordable social housing production can also help level out construction cycles and support employment.

    In 2024, MuniFin reached new milestones in sustainable investments. In October, we issued our tenth green bond, the high demand of which was once again testament to our strong position as an international forerunner in the financial sector. Moreover, sustainable finance made up the majority of the new long-term customer financing we granted in 2024.

    Information on the Group results

    Consolidated income statement Jan–Dec 2024 Jan–Dec 2023 Change, % Jul–Dec 2024 Jul–Dec 2023 Change, %
    (EUR million)            
    Net interest income 260 259 0.3 132 135 -2.4
    Other income 2 0 >100 1 -1 >100
    Income excluding unrealised fair value changes 262 259 1.1 132 134 -1.4
    Commission expenses -17 -16 8.2 -9 -8 11.2
    HR expenses -21 -20 2.0 -10 -10 -4.3
    Other items in administrative expenses -23 -20 12.4 -12 -11 12.0
    Depreciation and impairment on tangible and intangible assets -6 -7 -7.8 -3 -3 -14.3
    Other operating expenses -14 -19 -27.0 -7 -7 -0.6
    Costs -81 -82 -1.9 -40 -39 3.0
    Credit loss and impairments on financial assets 0 -1 -72.9 -1 -1 -38.7
    Net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes 181 176 2.9 92 95 -2.8
    Unrealised fair value changes -16 -37 -58.4 -31 -33 -3.6
    Net operating profit 166 139 19.5 61 62 -2.4
    Income tax expense -33 -28 17.3 -12 -12 -2.3
    Profit for the period 133 111 20.1 48 50 -2.4

    The Group’s net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes

    MuniFin Group’s core business operations remained strong in 2024. The Group’s net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes increased by 2.9% (3.2%) and amounted to EUR 181 million (EUR 176 million). The growth was influenced both by an increase in other income and a decrease in costs as net interest income remained at the level of previous year.

    The Group’s income excluding unrealised fair value changes was EUR 262 million (EUR 259 million) and grew by 1.1% (6.5%). Net interest income grew by 0.3% (7.5%), totalling EUR 260 million (EUR 259 million). Net interest income was positively affected by growing business volumes. The increase in funding costs due to the market conditions and the shape of the yield curve slowed the growth of net interest income.

    Other income totalled EUR 2.0 million (EUR 0.1 million). It consisted mainly of the billing of MuniFin’s digital services and the turnover of the subsidiary company Inspira from the early part of the year. In the previous year, negative realised FX rate changes reduced other income. At 0.8% (0.1%), other income relative to income excluding unrealised fair value changes forms only a minor part of the Group’s income.

    The Group’s costs were EUR 81 million (EUR 82 million), down by 1.9% from the year before (+12.4%). The reduction in expenses was due to the fact that no contribution fee was collected for the Single Resolution Fund in 2024.

    Commission expenses totalled EUR 17 million (EUR 16 million), of which EUR 14 million (EUR 13 million) consisted of the guarantee commission collected by the Municipal Guarantee Board for guaranteeing MuniFin’s funding.

    HR and administrative expenses grew by 7.2% (9.0%) and reached EUR 44 million (EUR 41 million). HR expenses comprised EUR 21 million (EUR 20 million) and other administrative expenses EUR 23 million (EUR 20 million). The average number of employees in the Group was 187 (183) during the financial year. Other items in administrative expenses grew by 12.4% (8.8%), mainly due to the increased costs of maintaining and developing information systems.

    During the financial year, depreciation and impairment of tangible and intangible assets totalled EUR 6 million (EUR 7 million).

    Other operating expenses were EUR 14 million (EUR 19 million). The main reason for this decrease is that there was no contribution fee to the Single Resolution Fund in 2024. Other operating expenses excluding fees collected by authorities grew by 22.1% (9.9%) to EUR 11 million (EUR 9 million).

    Credit loss and impairments on financial assets were EUR 0.3 million (EUR 1.2 million). This item consists of expected credit losses (ECL). The Group updated the model used to estimate the probability of default and the forward-looking macro scenarios during the financial year. The Group’s management has assessed the impact of general cost inflation and increased interest rates on customer financing receivables and credit risk and decided to release the additional discretionary provision in full at the end of 2024 (the amount of the additional discretionary provision was EUR 0.6 million at the end of 2023, and in June 2024, EUR 0.4 million of the additional provision was released). The update of the probability of default model increased expected credit losses by EUR 0.9 million euros, as the amount of exposures that moved from stage 1 to stage 2 increased. Most of the transferred exposures were subject to the previous additional discretionary provision. Therefore, the Group’s management considered that there is no longer a basis for recording a group-specific additional provision.

    The Group’s overall credit risk position has remained low. The amount of forborne loans was EUR 561 million (EUR 497 million), while non-performing exposures amounted to EUR 292 million (EUR 142 million) at the end of the year. These non-performing exposures represented 0.8% (0.4%) of total customer exposures. At the end of December, the Group had EUR 13 million in receivables due to the insolvency of customers, for which the collateral realisation process is ongoing, or the credit receivable is due for payment by the guarantor (there were no such receivables at the end of 2023). All the Group’s customer financing receivables are from Finnish municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties or joint county authorities, or accompanied by a securing municipal, joint municipal authority, wellbeing services county or joint county authority guarantee or a state deficiency guarantee supplementing real estate collateral, and therefore no final credit losses will arise. According to the management’s assessment, all receivables from customers will be fully recovered. During the Group’s history of 35 years, it has never recognised any final credit losses in its customer financing.

    The credit risk of the Group’s liquidity portfolio has likewise remained at a low level, and the average credit rating of the debt securities in the portfolio is AA+ (AA+).

    The Group’s profit and unrealised fair value changes

    The Group’s net operating profit was EUR 166 million (EUR 139 million). Unrealised fair value changes decreased the Group’s net operating profit by EUR 16 million (in 2023: decreased by EUR 37 million). In January–December, unrealised fair value changes in hedge accounting amounted to EUR -12 million (EUR -27 million) and unrealised net result on financial assets and liabilities through profit or loss to EUR -4 million (EUR -10 million).

    The Group’s effective tax rate in the financial year was 19.9% (20.2%). Taxes in the Consolidated income statement amounted to EUR 33 million (EUR 28 million). After taxes, the Group’s profit for the financial year was EUR 133 million (EUR 111 million).

    The Group’s full-year return on equity (ROE) was 7.2% (6.6%). Excluding unrealised fair value changes, the ROE was 7.9% (8.4%).

    The Group’s other comprehensive income includes unrealised fair value changes of EUR 169 million (EUR 109 million). During the financial year, the most significant item affecting the other comprehensive income was net change in fair value due to changes in own credit risk of financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss totalling EUR 137 million (EUR 75 million). The cost-of-hedging amounted to EUR 30 million (EUR 25 million). Net change in fair value of financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income was EUR 2 million (EUR 8 million).

    On the whole, unrealised fair value changes net of deferred tax affected the Group’s equity by EUR 122 million (EUR 57 million) and CET1 capital net of deferred tax in capital adequacy by EUR 13 million (EUR -3 million). The cumulative effect of unrealised fair value changes on the Group’s own funds in capital adequacy calculations was EUR 58 million (EUR 45 million).

    Unrealised fair value changes reflect the temporary impact of market conditions on the valuation levels of financial instruments at the time of reporting. The value changes may vary significantly from one reporting period to another, causing volatility in profit, equity and own funds in capital adequacy calculations. The effect on individual contracts will be removed by the end of the contract period. In the financial year, unrealised fair value changes were influenced in particular by changes in interest rates and credit risk spreads in the Group’s main funding markets.

    In accordance with its risk management principles, the Group uses derivatives to financially hedge against interest rate, exchange rate and other market and price risks. Cash flows under agreements are hedged, but due to the generally used valuation methods, changes in fair value differ between the financial instrument and the respective hedging derivative. Changes in the shape of the interest rate curve and credit risk spreads in different currencies affect the valuations, which cause the fair values of hedged assets and liabilities and hedging instruments to behave in different ways. In practice, the changes in valuations are not realised on a cash basis because the Group holds financial instruments and their hedging derivatives almost always until the maturity date. The counterparty credit risk related to derivatives is comprehensively covered by collateral management. Changes in credit risk spreads are not expected to be materialised as credit losses for the Group, because the Group’s liquidity reserve has been invested in instruments with low credit risk.

    The Parent Company and subsidiary company Inspira’s results

    In 2024, MuniFin’s net interest income amounted to EUR 260 million (EUR 259 million) and net operating profit to EUR 166 million (EUR 139 million).

    The turnover of MuniFin’s subsidiary company, Financial Advisory Services Inspira Ltd, was EUR 0.4 million (EUR 1.4 million), and its net operating result amounted to EUR -0.5 million (EUR 0.0 million). The Group discontinued Inspira’s advisory services in the spring. In the future, the subsidiary company will provide some of the digital added value services MuniFin offers to its customers.

    The Group’s financial performance in July–December

    In the second half of 2024, the Group’s net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes amounted to EUR 92 million (Jul–Dec 2023: EUR 95 million), remaining almost at the same level as in the year before. Net interest income totalled EUR 132 million (Jul–Dec 2023: EUR 135 million) and costs EUR 40 million (Jul–Dec 2023: EUR 39 million) in July–December. Unrealised fair value changes weakened the net operating profit by EUR 31 million (in the comparison period Jul–Dec 2023: weakened by EUR 33 million). The Group’s net operating profit amounted to EUR 61 million (Jul–Dec 2023: EUR 62 million) in July–December.

    In the second half of the year, the Group’s net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes increased by 3.1% from the first half. Net interest income went up by 2.4% from the first half of the year. Costs amounted to EUR 40 million in July–December and to EUR 41 million in January–June. The Group’s net operating profit totalled EUR 61 million in July– December, decreasing by 42.4% from January–June. In the second half of the year, unrealised fair value changes affected the net operating profit by EUR -31 million, while in the first half of the year, their effect was EUR 16 million.

    Outlook for 2025

    Europe’s economy is starting 2025 off from a weaker position than anticipated. Business cycle expectations are subdued, and the global operating environment is fraught with uncertainty. Donald Trump’s presidential administration is expected to pursue protectionist trade policies, which could, at worst, severely slow down the euro area’s economic recovery.

    However, if Europe is exempted from the planned universal tariff on all US imports and the euro continues to weaken, businesses in the euro area could even find new opportunities to expand their market share in the US. Europe could also suffer negative economic effects if capital needed to improve productivity is increasingly allocated to strengthening military defence and supply security. The political turmoil in France and Germany adds another layer of uncertainty into the euro area economy.

    To counterbalance the growing economic uncertainty, the European Central Bank is expected to continue brisk interest rate cuts in 2025. Short-term market rates are projected to come down to about two per cent or even slightly below that by mid-year.

    The sharp interest rate cuts will be the most crucial booster for the Finnish economy in 2025. Although the overall tone of the economic turnround is still relatively subdued, the simultaneous recovery of demand drivers could boost annual GDP growth to surprisingly strong figures. Even so, macroeconomic forecasts continue to be very uncertain. Finland’s two most important export markets, the US and Germany, both entail considerable risks, and a sharperthan-expected decline in employment casts a shadow over the recovery of the domestic market. From the Group’s perspective, the 2024 rise in credit risk spreads is expected to push up the cost of funding, weakening the Group’s net interest income in 2025.

    Municipalities are undergoing sizeable adjustment programmes, but their financing deficit is nevertheless expected to grow again in 2025. Municipal finances are strained by several factors: central government transfer cuts resulting from the balancing of health and social services reform transfers, increased net investments, health and social services facilities that are left unused by wellbeing services counties but continue to incur maintenance, conversion and demolition costs, as well as uncertainty surrounding the actual costs of the employment services reform. In addition, the weakened employment outlook poses a serious risk to tax revenues.

    Privately funded housing production is expected to take an upward turn in 2025, but its volume will nevertheless remain well below normal levels. The housing market is starting to gradually pick up, and housing prices are expected to start rising moderately from 2025 onwards. In contrast, state-subsidised housing production will see fewer building starts due to reductions on interest subsidy loan authorisations. In March 2025, the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (Ara) will cease to operate as an independent government agency and its operations will instead be integrated under the Ministry of the Environment. This change does not mean the end of state-subsidised housing production; rather, it aims to improve the administration of affordable social housing production. According to MuniFin’s analysis, the integration will not have a direct effect on MuniFin’s business. Interest subsidy loans will continue to be granted to state-subsidised housing production, but the related processes will be administered at the Ministry of the Environment. MuniFin will monitor the practical implications closely. With the managing authority changing, the Company may need to make changes to some of its processes in response.

    Considering the above-mentioned circumstances, the Group expects its net operating profit excluding unrealised fair value changes to be at the same level or lower in 2025 as in 2024. The Group expects its capital adequacy ratio and leverage ratio to remain strong. The valuation principles set in the IFRS framework may cause significant but temporary unrealised fair value changes, some of which increase the volatility of net operating profit and make it more difficult to estimate.

    These estimates are based on a current assessment of the development of MuniFin Group’s operations and the operating environment.

    Municipality Finance Plc

    Further information:

    Esa Kallio, President and CEO, tel. +358 50 337 7953

    Harri Luhtala, Executive Vice President, Finance, CFO, tel. +358 50 592 9454

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland. The Group’s balance sheet is over EUR 53 billion.

    MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, joint county authorities, corporate entities under the control of the above-mentioned organisations, and affordable social housing. Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic, but the Company operates in a completely global business environment. The Company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: www.munifin.fi

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lender.Market Unveils AI Financial Advisor V2.0: The Ultimate Funding Solution for Construction, Dentistry, Healthcare, and More

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lender.Market, a leader in AI-driven lending solutions, is excited to announce the launch of AI Financial Advisor V2.0, a groundbreaking upgrade to its intelligent funding platform. Designed for construction companies, dental practices, healthcare providers, and small businesses, this next-generation AI tool streamlines financial analysis, optimizes loan matching, and empowers businesses with smarter, faster, and more customized funding solutions.

    What’s New in AI Financial Advisor V2.0?

    Industry-Specific Funding Recommendations AI tailors financial strategies for construction, dentistry, healthcare, and other capital-intensive industries.

    Instant Bank Statement Analysis Processes multiple bank statements in seconds, reviewing debits, credits, revenue trends, and cash flow.

    AI-Optimized Loan Matching Identifies the best funding options based on business performance, financial health, and industry benchmarks.

    Real-Time Financial Advice Offers strategies to improve cash flow, optimize spending, and secure funding with manageable repayment plans.

    Stronger AI Accuracy & Speed Upgraded algorithms provide deeper insights and more precise funding recommendations than ever before.

    Transforming Access to Capital for Key Industries

    1. Construction Secure project funding quickly for materials, labor, and equipment with AI-driven financial insights that align with construction business loans.
    2. Dentistry: Get tailored financing for new equipment, office expansion, or practice acquisition, with AI analyzing patient volume and revenue streams find multiple Dentistry business loans.
    3. Healthcare: Medical professionals can access funding for clinic upgrades, urgent care expansion, or telehealth services, ensuring smooth financial operations.
    4. Small Businesses & Beyond: From startups to established enterprises, AI Financial Advisor V2.0 provides custom financial strategies to support sustainable growth.

    Investor Opportunities: Join the Future of AI-Powered Finance

    As Lender.Market continues to revolutionize AI-driven lending, the company is actively seeking strategic investors to accelerate its expansion into new markets. With its proven AI technology and growing demand for industry-specific funding solutions, Lender.Market presents an exciting investment opportunity in the future of AI-powered finance.

    See the full project on our investor relations page

    Exclusive Launch Event

    Lender.Market will host a virtual and in-person launch event to showcase AI Financial Advisor V2.0, including a live demo and insights from industry experts. Register today at Contact lender market lender.market to secure your spot!

    About Lender.Market

    Lender.Market is an AI-driven lending platform that simplifies and accelerates business financing. By leveraging advanced AI algorithms, it provides real-time financial analysis, industry-specific funding solutions, and customized loan matching for businesses across various industries.

    Experience AI Financial Advisor V2.0 today at Apply lender market.

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    Name: Eli Ofel
    Email: eli@lender.market
    Phone: 732 808-3305
    Business Name: Lender Market
    Eli ofel Founder and CEO also founder and chairman of leaa health
    Lender market – lending platform

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by the Lender.Market. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Amendments to the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: Amendments to the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004

    The International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (the BWM Convention) is intended to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms, and damage to the marine environment, from ballast water discharge by minimising the uptake and discharge of sediments and organisms.

    A key element of the BWM Convention is the recording of ballast water discharge operations from ships through the maintenance of a ballast water record book (BWRB). 

    New requirements for the reporting of ballast water discharge come into force this year, following resolutions made at the 80th session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee in July 2023. These changes, summarised in IMCA Information Note 1669, include a new form for reporting ballast water discharges from 1 February 2025 and, from 1 October 2025, a requirement for flag state administrations to approve the use of electronic BWRBs.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMCA enhances eCMID system with new features and updated guidance

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: IMCA enhances eCMID system with new features and updated guidance

    IMCA enhances eCMID system with new features and updated guidance

    The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has introduced significant updates to its eCMID (electronic Common Marine Inspection Document) system, reinforcing its commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and standardisation in vessel inspections. These enhancements, developed by the cross-industry eCMID Committee in consultation with users, include improvements to risk categorisation, inspector guidance, and the analytics hub, alongside updates to inspection templates.

    What is the eCMID system?

    The eCMID system provides a standardised framework for vessel inspections, carried out by Accredited Vessel Inspectors (AVIs). These inspections support vessel safety and operational efficiency by offering detailed reports that help vessel operators, charterers, and stakeholders assess compliance with industry best practices.

    Key system improvements

    • Risk categorisation in reports and analytics hub – IMCA has introduced automated risk categorisation for inspection findings, helping prioritise critical safety issues. Identified high-risk findings are listed first in reports and can be analysed on an industry-wide or fleet-wide basis using the analytics hub. This enhancement ensures that urgent safety concerns receive the necessary attention and action.
    • Updated guidance for inspectors – Revised instructions now provide clearer details on assessment criteria, photographic evidence, and necessary comments.
    • Reader notes – The PDF reports now include simplified notes, helping stakeholders quickly understand key inspection findings.
    • Closing meetings – Improvements to the inspection app interface support better documentation of closing meetings between inspectors and vessel masters.
    • Vessel particulars – We have improved the app and website interfaces to make it easier to record good quality data. A new ‘not applicable’ option makes clear that an item has been reviewed, where previously this would have been indicated by leaving the field blank.
    • Required supplements – Vessel operators can now mandate the completion of relevant supplements, such as ‘DP’ or ‘heavy lift’, which will then link to the relevant inspector accreditation requirements.

    New inspection template names

    To streamline branding and accommodate future system expansion, IMCA has standardised the names of its inspection templates:

    • IMCA M149 Issue 14: eCMID Vessel Inspection (≥500gt) (previously the Common Marine Inspection Document)
    • IMCA M189 Issue 7: eCMID Small Vessel Inspection (
    • The updated IMCA M167 Rev. 5 – Guidance on the IMCA eCMID System is also now available, detailing the latest changes to procedures and guidance.

    Action required for vessel operators

    Vessel operators are encouraged to complete vessel particulars via the ‘vessel setup’ screens in the database. From 1 May 2025, a finding will be recorded in inspection reports if this data has not been pre-populated, ensuring inspectors can focus on safety-critical aspects rather than basic data entry.

    Continued investment in system improvements

    The eCMID system is continuously evolving, with improvements funded by user upload fees. These fees are reinvested to maintain and enhance the system, incorporating user feedback and guidance from the cross-industry eCMID Committee. Ongoing developments include cybersecurity enhancements, API access to selected data, and new inspection templates for ROVs (remote operated vehicles) and USVs (unmanned surface vehicles).

    IMCA invites stakeholders to share feedback on these updates and help shape the future of the eCMID system. For further details, visit www.ecmid.com.

    You might be interested in…

    We may use anonymised cookies for some functionality on this site. With your consent, we would also like to use tracking to improve our online offering. Find out more.

    Your cart has been updated

    Course type:

    Format:

    Location:

    Contact:

    Link copied to clipboard!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. Navy EOD and divers conduct arctic warfare training exercise SNOWCRABEX 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    SNOWCRABEX, controlled this year by Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2, is a two-week exercise designed to test and evaluate Naval Expeditionary Combat Forces (NECF) capabilities in a simulated arctic environment and, ultimately, improve Navy EOD’s combat effectiveness in mountain and arctic, winter warfare. During the exercise, U.S. Navy EOD technicians from EOD Mobile Units (EODMU) 12 and 2 and Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 tested, evaluated, and refined tactics, equipment and operations in an austere and demanding environment with unpredictable weather conditions and temperatures dropping below zero.

    “Snow Crab Exercise is about training Arctic capable forces individually and collectively in cold weather operational skills like ice diving, skiing, shooting, unit movement, medical care, equipment sustainment, and survival—skills required for successful joint and combined operations in an arctic environment, so our units can successfully complete their mission when and where they’re called to,” said Lt. Samuel Baker, MDS Co. 2-1 company commander, MDSU 2. “This exercise provides a perfect training environment for our forces to build readiness for operations at high latitudes.”

    As stated in the Department of Defense’s Arctic Strategy 2024, “The United States is an Arctic nation, and the region is critical to the defense of our homeland, the protection of U.S. national sovereignty, and our defense treaty commitments.”

    Minnesota provides an ideal setting for Navy EOD and salvage divers to learn what it takes to not only survive in sub-zero temperatures and operate in heavy snow, but also how to succeed and thrive to become experts in an Arctic environment.

    SNOWCRABEX 2025 also allowed units to test equipment and refine load out standards to improve their ability to operate in harsh regions. Navy EOD and Navy divers utilize highly specialized equipment to conduct their missions, and this exercise provides a valuable opportunity to test sensitive gear in an austere environment that it wasn’t necessarily designed for, allowing for refinement of methods or the development of alternative solutions. The key lessons learned from the exercise will inform capability requirements and strategic planning for future arctic operations.

    “The training at SNOWCRABEX this year was priceless. It takes experience training in extreme cold weather so Sailors know how to operate, and prevent their hands and equipment from freezing,” said Cmdr. Garrett Pankow, commander, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2. “When you’re diving under ice or mitigating explosive threats, the extreme conditions in mountain and arctic environments aren’t forgiving; the training experience gained at Snow Crab allows us to reduce risk already inherent in Navy EOD and salvage operations. We’ll continue to improve U.S. Navy EOD and mobile diving and salvage teams’ readiness to support Fleet operations anywhere, anytime.”

    U.S. Navy EOD cleared simulated unexploded ordnance, secured critical infrastructure, and integrated with local U.S. Air Force EOD; exercising communication between distributed operating units. Prior to arriving at Camp Ripley, they learned avalanche safety, mountain survivability, and winter mobility skills at training courses in Utah and Wyoming.

    Navy divers successfully completed ice dive training, arctic survivability, and mobility training, scenario based response drills, and diving casualty medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) training. The unique training environment at Camp Ripley allowed Navy divers to expand their capabilities for diving and salvage operations in an Arctic environment.

    In preparation for SNOWCRABEX 2025, components of EODGRU 2’s medical unit attended a week-long arctic mountain medicine course in Anchorage, Alaska, Jan. 6-13, 2025, where they learned extraction techniques and cold weather injury treatment that will enhance medical care capabilities within the Naval Expeditionary Force (NECF). Treating a casualty in an austere environment with difficult terrain, such as crevasse, cliff sides, and mountains requires special extraction techniques.

    The medical team exercised these techniques at SNOWCRABEX and trained EOD and ND units on advanced cold weather care, including rewarming techniques, hypothermia and frostbite treatment, and prolonged casualty care. Their training culminated with integrated support to MDSU 2 executing a complex MEDEVAC scenario simulating an ice diving casualty, extracting the diver from the water, coordinating helicopter landing at a local landing zone, and transporting the victim by medical support helicopter to a medical facility.

    “In an austere environment, where we have difficulty moving them out of location to a medical facility, we need a way to get someone the care they need within or as close to the ‘golden hour’ – the window of time that is most critical for a life-threatening injury. At SNOWCRABEX 2025, we are honing our medical skills and developing techniques which will enhance our medical care capabilities in these far out, hard to reach environments to support prolonged casualty care,” said Cmdr. Nikunj Bhatt, the Undersea Medical Officer (UMO) and Senior Medical Officer for EOD Group 2.

    “We have an incredible team developing techniques to deliver medical supplies, including blood, using unmanned air systems. Snow Crab is a unique environment to exercise these techniques; we are looking at temperature integrity, drone handling, drone payload capacity, its range of travel, and other variables. Having tools like this will be powerful for enhancing care capabilities for an expeditionary unit; to increase odds of survivability in the event of a cold weather medical casualty,” continued Bhatt.

    The exercise was a success due to the support from The Minnesota National Guard and Camp Ripley leadership and staff. MN Air National Guard provided air support for portions of the exercise. U.S. Air Force EOD Technicians from the 148th Fighter Wing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Flight provided support to demolition training and operations.

    The U.S. Navy routinely patrols on, above, below and around Arctic waters to ensure the security of commerce and demonstrate freedom of navigation. Navy EOD and expeditionary divers constantly train to operate in all environments to execute the Nation’s tasking and enable the Fleet’s freedom of maneuver. Exercises like SNOWCRABEX 2025 allow our teams to improve Arctic literacy, training proficiency, and tactical competency to build readiness for operations in the austere and demanding Arctic environment.

    Other Navy Expeditionary Combat Command units that participated in SNOWCRABEX 2025 included: EOD Expeditionary Support Unit (EODESU) 2, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2, Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group (NAVELSG), Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command (NEIC), and Navy Expeditionary Warfighting Development Center (NEXWDC).

    EODGRU 2 operates as part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and provides skilled, capable, and combat-ready deployable Navy EOD and Navy diver forces around the globe to support a range of operations.

    For additional news about U.S. Navy EOD and diving, visit https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/EODG-2.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: MSC chartered ship MV Ocean Giant completes cargo offload in support of Operation Deep Freeze 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    Ocean Giant arrived at McMurdo Station Jan. 26, delivering a floating marine causeway system along with 380 pieces of cargo, consisting of containers filled with mechanical parts, vehicles, construction materials, office supplies and electronics equipment, and mobile office units; supplies needed to sustain the next year of operations at McMurdo Station, Antarctica.

    Following the offload, Ocean Giant was loaded with 360 containers of retrograde cargo for transportation off the continent. This includes trash and recyclable materials for disposal and equipment no longer required on the station.

    The MSC chartered ship MV Ocean Gladiator is scheduled to arrive in McMurdo Station later this week, and will begin a cargo offload as well as retrieving the causeway.

    Operation Deep Freeze is a joint service, on-going Defense Support to Civilian Authorities activity in support of the National Science Foundation (NSF), lead agency for the United States Antarctic Program. Mission support consists of active duty, Guard and Reserve personnel from the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, and Coast Guard as well as Department of Defense civilians and attached non-DOD civilians. ODF operates from two primary locations situated at Christchurch, New Zealand and McMurdo Station, Antarctica. An MSC-chartered cargo ship and tanker have made the challenging voyage to Antarctica every year since the station and its resupply mission were established in 1955.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VAT rules update could help businesses save billions of euros

    Source: European Union 2

    The update will notably require that VAT be paid for services provided through online platforms, putting an end to an unfair distortion of competition. It will also fight VAT fraud.

    On Wednesday, Parliament’s plenary approved the changes to the rules that member states indicated in November they wished to make to the VAT Directive. MEPs approved the rules with 589 votes in favour, 42 against and 10 abstentions.

    These changes will require that by 2030 online platforms must pay VAT for services provided through them in most of the cases where the individual service providers do not charge VAT. This will put an end to a distortion of the market because similar services provided in the traditional economy are already subject to VAT. This distortion has been most significant in the short-term accommodation rental sector and the road passenger transport sector. Member states will have the possibility of exempting SMEs from this rule, an idea which Parliament had also pushed.

    The update will also fully digitalise VAT reporting obligations for cross-border transactions by 2030 with businesses issuing e-invoices for cross-border business-to-business transactions and automatically reporting the data to their tax administration. With this, tax authorities should be in a better position to tackle VAT fraud.

    To simplify the administrative burden for businesses, the rules beef-up online VAT one-stop-shops so that even more businesses with cross-border activity will be able to meet their VAT obligations through a single online portal and in one language.

    Background

    This update to the VAT rules has been over two years in the making. On 8 December 2022, the Commission presented the ‘VAT in the digital age’ package (ViDA package) which consisted of three proposals. One of these was the update to the VAT directive of 2006.

    The Commission has calculated that Member States will recoup up to €11 billion in lost VAT

    revenues every year for the next 10 years. Businesses will save €4.1 billion a year over the next 10 years in compliance costs, and €8.7 billion in registration and administrative costs over a ten year period.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Have your say on the next EU long-term budget

    Source: European Union 2

    A Commission Communication outlining the key policy and budgetary challenges that will shape the the next EU long-term budget is now available. The long-term budget – known as the Multiannual Financial Framework – sets out the EU’s spending priorities for several years. It supports millions of people, farmers, researchers, businesses and regions across the EU and beyond. It is essential for improving our lives, helping us only recently to overcome a pandemic and energy crisis while saving millions of jobs during lockdown. 

    EU countries, businesses and citizens need to reconsider the way the EU budget works to make it fit for the future. To continue to support a free, democratic, secure, prosperous and competitive Europe, the long-term budget needs to be simpler, more impactful, and more targeted. 

    The new approach for a modern EU budget should include: 

    – a plan for each country with key reforms and investments, designed in partnership with national, regional, and local authorities 

    – a European Competitiveness Fund that will establish an investment capacity to support strategic sectors and critical technologies 

    –  financing for external action that is more impactful, targeted and aligned with strategic interests 

    –  additional safeguards protecting the rule of law 

    The Commission is now inviting all Europeans to have their say on the next budget and the policies it should support, ahead of presenting a formal proposal in July 2025. It has started a series of public consultations that will remain open for the next 12 weeks. You can find the links to these consultations below.  

    Some 150 Europeans will also have the chance to debate and make concrete recommendations for the next EU budget in a Citizens’ panel. This debate will be accompanied by an online platform offering everyone the opportunity to take part. 

    Once agreed later this year, the next long-term budget will take effect in January 2028. 

    For more information 

    Public consultations 

    European Citizens’ Panel on a new European Budget 

    The long-term EU budget 

    Press release: Shaping the future of the EU together: the Commission sets out the road to the next EU long-term budget 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Says No More Union Time on Taxpayers Dime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – As part of her sweeping effort to get the absent federal workforce back to work and serving the American people, U.S. Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is introducing the Protecting Taxpayers’ Wallet Act to crackdown on taxpayer-funded union time.
    The bill will stop the practice of requiring taxpayers to foot the bill for federal employees engaging in union activity while on the clock, including lobbying Congress for higher pay, negotiating telework agreements, and others securing cushy perks.
    “Federal employees have been on a four-year vacation from work but were quite busy locking in pay raises and cushy telework agreements with the Biden administration,” said Ernst. “We need a full accounting of how many work hours and tax dollars have been spent to fully understand just how broken the federal workforce is. I am getting bureaucrats back to work and serving taxpayers instead of themselves.”
    “Forcing the American Taxpayer to foot the bill for federal union organizing is outrageous and absurd. If federal employees and resources are going to be used for union tasks, the unions should foot the bill,” said Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.), who is introducing this legislation in the House.
    In addition to this legislative action, Senator Ernst partnered with Congressman Michael Cloud (R-Texas) to ask the Trump administration to restart the annual reports fully accounting the cost of taxpayer-funded union time.
    “The Biden administration allowed federal employee unions to run wild, sticking taxpayers with the tab. At the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), whistleblowers have come forward with evidence of HUD improperly paying TFUT to a number of employees, and investigations have substantiated these allegations. Specifically, a whistleblower with first-hand knowledge alleged that a HUD union official was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol during the work day and was able to successfully assert she was engaged in union activities pursuant to TFUT while in custody,” wrote the lawmakers.
    Background:
    Ernst’s investigations previously exposed bureaucrats claiming to be on taxpayer-funded union time while sitting in a jail cell and on permanent vacation in Florida.
    Cracking down on taxpayer-funded union time is part of Senator Ernst’s broader push to get the broken federal workforce back to work as chair of the Senate DOGE Caucus through her telework report.
    Her playbook has already racked up a win with the announcement of the sale of the Wilbur J. Cohen building, a 1.2 million square foot monument to waste, where just 72 of 3,341 workers were showing up to work.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Time to ‘Celebrate Our Heritage’ at Strabane St Patrick’s Day Parade

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Time to ‘Celebrate Our Heritage’ at Strabane St Patrick’s Day Parade

    12 February 2025

    Final preparations are underway to make this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in Strabane bigger and better than ever.

    The theme for this year’s parade is ‘Celebrating Our Heritage’ and over the last few months local schools, clubs, community groups, bands and individuals have been working hard creating eye-catching costumes and props, and practicing their dances and tunes in readiness for the 17th March.

    Schools taking part in this year’s parade include St Catherine’s PS, Holy Cross College, Sion Mills Integrated PS, Knockavoe School, and Gaelscoil Ui Dhochartaigh. Among the groups who will be participating are Sion Swifts, Sigersons GAA Club, Niamh Brown McGranaghan School of Irish Dance, Much Ado Performing Arts Academy and Class Act Theatre Group.

    Preparing the young people to step out with confidence on St Patrick’s Day are Streetwise Community Circus and the North West Carnival Initiative. Streetwise have been working with the local schoolchildren to teach them a variety of circus skills including juggling and stilt walking, they have also been guiding them in the intricacies of prop design. Around 120 children from local schools will take part in the parade, each will carry a prop they have created especially for the occasion.

    The North West Carnival Initiative have been working with the local sports clubs and dance/drama groups in preparation for their part in the day. They have been working with the groups to help them build props, costumes and banners which will be showcased during the parade.

    Providing music on the day will be a number of talented local bands. 

    Encouraging people to come out and enjoy the fabulous St Patrick’s Day Parade, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr said: “We’ve all had enough of the cold, dark days of winter and we are ready to welcome the warmer days of Spring – what better way to greet the new season than with an incredible St Patrick’s Day Parade full of fun, colour, music and dance.

    “I would encourage everyone in Strabane to come out and celebrate our wonderful heritage and traditions with this special day. Please give your support to all the young people and individuals who have worked so hard to create this wonderful event for you to enjoy. I can guarantee even if the sun doesn’t shine that you’ll have a smile on your face!”.

    This year’s parade will depart from Holy Cross College at 2pm, it will make its way down the Melmount Road, along Bridge Street and Market Street, past Abercorn Square and along Railway Road before finishing at Dock Street.

    There will be activity in the Alley Theatre from 1.30-4.30pm with live music from CRAIC, face painting and Barry McGowan Art. 

    Later that evening the Strabane Drama Festival will continue at the Alley Theatre with The Whiteheaded Boy by Lennox Robinson presented by the Bart Players. Tickets for this performance and further information about the Drama Festival is available at www.alley-theatre.com.

    Full details of the Strabane St Patrick’s Day celebrations are available at www.derrystrabane.com/stpatricksdaystrabane and follow St Patrick’s Day Strabane on Facebook for all the latest information.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rugby takeover at SAFC fan zone

    Source: City of Sunderland

    The Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy will be the star attraction at Sunderland AFC’s pre-match fan zone next month.

    The trophy’s appearance is part of a rugby takeover of the fan zone on International Women’s Day, on Saturday 8 March.

    Families coming along to the fan zone at the Beacon of Light ahead of the Sunderland v Cardiff City match will be able to try their hand at a whole range of exciting rugby inspired activities on the day.

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “We’re thrilled to have secured the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy for our fan zone takeover on International Women’s Day.

    “With just months to go until England’s Red Roses kick off the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup at the Stadium of Light on Friday 22 August, the fan zone event is a great opportunity to showcase everything rugby has to offer.

    “Even if you don’t know anything about the sport, it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in all things rugby.

    “There’ll be something for everyone no matter what your age or ability, including walking rugby, fun fitness sessions with a rugby twist, children’s activities, tag rugby, and rugby skills on show from local clubs, as well as the chance to hear about the new T1 rugby offer coming soon to the city.

    “So this is a brilliant chance to come along and find out all about our Active Sunderland community rugby offer and learn more about our fantastic local rugby clubs. You’ll also be able to find out how to get tickets for the England v USA opening match. And, you can even have your photo taken with the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy.”

    The Beacon of Light will be hosting the fan zone take over from 12.30-2.30pm on Saturday 8 March, with match-goers and non match-goers alike welcome to come along and join the fun. All activities are free. 

    Match-goers will also be able to see girls from Houghton Rugby Club’s under 12’s team demonstrating their rugby skills when they take to the pitch at the Stadium of Light at half time during the Cardiff City game.

    The fan zone takeover is being organised by the RFU, University of Sunderland, local rugby clubs, the Foundation of Light, SAFC, Sunderland BID, Newcastle Falcons and Sunderland City Council.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nominations for the annual Youth Buzz Award open

    Source: City of Manchester

    Nominations for the Youth Buzz Awards 2025 celebrating Manchester’s talented young people and their achievements is now open.

    The annual event organised by Manchester Youth Council on behalf of the City Council give the city an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate Manchester’s extraordinary young people.

    The awards are for young Mancunians aged from 11-19 (or up to 25 years old if they have special educational needs or disabilities and/or are carers or care leavers) from all over the city who help to make a difference to their communities.

    The Youth Buzz Awards give the city and the Council a chance to formally recognise and reward young people for the fantastic things they do – not just for themselves but also for others.

    The awards play a part in Manchester’s work with UNICEF UK to put children’s rights into practice and become an internationally recognised Child Friendly City which aims to create communities where all young people have a meaningful say in the local decisions that shape their lives.

    Nominations can be made across ten categories – which include:

    • Youth Project of the Year
    • Young Leader of the Year
    • Young Entrepreneur of the Year
    • Youth Voice or Campaign of the Year
    • Making a Difference Award
    • Young Carer Award
    • Championing Inclusion Award
    • Well-being Award
    • Community Champion Award
    • Outstanding Achievement Award

    The Awards ceremony will take place on the evening of Thursday 1 May.

    Anyone can nominate a young person who they think deserves an award for their outstanding contribution to the city.

    For more information and to make a nomination, please fill in the online form by March 9, 2025 – Youth Buzz Awards form  

    Councillor Julie Reid, Executive Member for Children and Young People said:

    “Our ambition is to be a truly child friendly city by putting children and young people at the heart of what we do and we know that there are so many children and young people making a huge difference in their communities, so this is your chance to celebrate their contribution.

    It is so rewarding to watch these young people flourish and grow and carry the skills they gain into their future lives as they continue to contribute to the communities in which they live. If you know someone that deserves this recognition please don’t wait, nominate now, the process is very easy, and it could make a massive difference to a young person’s life.”

    All entries must be received by Sunday 9 March 11.59pm

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public urged to be vigilant as Mpox cases rise

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council and its health partners are urging people to stay alert to the risk of Mpox cases, following a recent rise in cases in the Northwest.  

    Mpox is a viral infection which spreads through close contact, including intimate or sexual contact, or contact with contaminated materials, such as bed sheets or towels. 

    Like many viral diseases, Mpox has different types which are also referred to as ‘clades’.  

    Clade II Mpox has been present in the UK since 2022 and continues to this day.  Clade I Mpox was previously only reported in parts of Central Africa, but there is now increasing transmission in several countries in east and central Africa, and cases have been reported in countries outside of the African continent, including a small number detected in the UK. 

    Find a list of countries which have been affected here  

    The chances of infection remain low however, people should be aware of the symptoms in order to avoid transmission.

    Symptoms include: 

    • A skin rash with blisters, spots or ulcers that can appear anywhere on the body. 
    • Fever 
    • Headaches, backache, and muscle aches 
    • Joint pains 
    • Swollen glands 
    • Shivering (chills)  
    • Exhaustion or fatigue  

    After contracting Mpox a rash will usually appear 1 to 5 days after a fever, headache or other symptoms. It often begins on the face, then spreads to other parts of the body. The number of sores can range. 

    Find out who is most at risk of contracting Mpox here.

    Health officials advise that individuals at risk, especially those who have recently travelled to affected countries, should monitor for symptoms such as spots, blisters, or ulcers. If symptoms develop, isolate at home and contact NHS 111 for guidance.

    Please contact a clinic if you have a rash with blisters, or any abnormal bleeding, and have:

    • Been in close contact, including sexual contact, with someone who has or might have Mpox in the past 3 weeks.
    • Had 1 or more new sexual partners in the past 3 weeks.

    You can contact your local sexual health clinic for further information and to see if you’re eligible for vaccination: 

    Axess Sexual Health – https://www.axess.clinic/ 000 323 1300 

    For more information and guidance, please visit https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/category/mpox/ 

    Or https://www.gov.uk/guidance/monkeypox 

    Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing said: “We have made excellent progress tackling Mpox in the UK since the outbreak was first identified in May 2022.  

    “In Liverpool we kept cases to a minimum by ensuring that we supported people with information around symptoms, where to go for support and vaccination, and remaining vigilant.”  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Greens condemn Labour’s ‘despicable’ new anti-refugee laws

    Source: Scottish Greens

    12 Feb 2025 Justice

    The hostile environment is punishing some of our most marginalised communities.

    More in Justice

    The biggest UK parties are competing with one another in a bid to be as hostile as possible to refugees and migrant communities, say the Scottish Greens.

    The party has condemned new guidance by Labour to deny citizenship to people who arrive in the UK on a small boat, and the race to the bottom that it represents for human rights.

    Ms Chapman said:

    “It is grotesque to watch Labour competing with the Tories and Reform to see who can be the most hostile to refugees and migrant communities. It is a race to the bottom for human rights.

    “Keir Starmer was a human rights lawyer, but now he is implementing some of the most racist, authoritarian and despicable anti-migrant policies in decades.

    “Nobody gets in a small boat to make a dangerous crossing by choice. It is because they believe they have no alternative, that not doing so would be worse, perhaps even more deadly. These journeys are symptomatic of an inhumane system that does not offer safe passage or support.

    “When refugees arrive in the UK they are met with a cruel and opaque system that doesn’t offer anywhere near enough to live comfortably, meanwhile some of the most powerful people in the country scaremonger, scapegoat and lie about them on a daily basis.

    “We can and must be a welcoming country that offers support and solidarity to people in need rather than punishing and demonising them. We must also recognise the role that the UK has played in creating instability in other parts of the world.

    “Freedom, empathy, compassion and solidarity have to be at the heart of the system we create. But that can’t happen as long as the UK government is prioritising performative cruelty and trying to compete with Nigel Farage.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) confirms Ciarb as sole provider of arbitration management services for fourth year

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) is pleased to confirm the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) has secured the second extension to its contract for the provision of arbitration services on behalf of the PCA.

    The PCA has confirmed the Ciarb as the contracted provider of arbitration management services for tied tenants of pub-owning businesses with more than 500 tied tenants. This is a service which has been provided by Ciarb since December 2021 following a tender process.

    Fiona Dickie, PCA says, “I am pleased Ciarb is continuing to work with the PCA in the provision of the arbitration service for tied tenants for another year. If a tenant is in dispute with their pub-owning business about their Pubs Code rights, that dispute can be referred to the Pubs Code Adjudicator to be decided by an arbitrator. Arbitration gives tenants an independent decision on a dispute and is a crucial element of tenant rights under the Pubs Code. The contract with Ciarb is an important support to the provision of a quality arbitration service.

    Tenants are encouraged to read the PCA’s factsheet, which explains what arbitration is, what disputes may be referred, the strict time limits involved and the costs rules that apply”.

    Further details

    Further details about the award of the contract and names of current arbitrators can be found on the Ciarb’s website.

    To make a referral for arbitration under the Pubs Code, please complete the Referral Form.  You will need to pay a referral fee of £200. Full details about the form and how to pay the referral fee are on Ciarb’s website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Eastern Caribbean Currency Union: IMF Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Mission on Common Policies for Member Countries

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    February 12, 2025

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

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

    Washington, DC:

    The Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) has been providing a strong anchor for macroeconomic stability in a shock-prone region, demonstrated most recently by Hurricane Beryl with its devastating impact on Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The recovery from successive external shocks has been strong, driven by a rebound in tourism, with ECCU economies expected to converge to modest pre-pandemic average growth rates over the medium term. To effectively manage downside risks while supporting long-term inclusive growth and the continued robustness of the quasi-currency board, policies should aim to address supply-side bottlenecks, build resilient fiscal frameworks to support fiscal sustainability, and continue to enhance financial system resilience and intermediation. Greater leveraging of synergies in regional data collection and processing could help strengthen data provision and thereby evidence-based policymaking.

    The ECCU has achieved a strong rebound from successive adverse shocks. A strong tourism season and continued infrastructure investments supported robust growth in 2024. Inflation has moderated in tune with global trends from a post-pandemic peak of more than 9 percent to less than 2 percent. Nevertheless, public debt remains high and generally well above the regional 2035 debt ceiling of 60 percent of GDP. Meanwhile, Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) revenues have shown signs of slowing amidst heightened international scrutiny and regulatory tightening. The financial system remains stable, partly due to a prolonged period of cautious bank lending. Despite persistently elevated current account deficits, the ECCB’s reserve position has remained stable and currency backing ratio high, supporting confidence in the currency union.

    Going forward, GDP growth is set to moderate, and risks remain mostly on the downside. As most parts of the region approach full tourism capacity, average growth in the region is expected to slow from 6½ percent in 2021-24 to around 2½ percent in the medium term amid weak productivity growth and investment, a shrinking labor force, and reduced fiscal space. Moreover, given the region’s long-standing vulnerabilities of high dependence on energy imports, exposure to natural disasters (NDs), persistently high public debt, and some economies’ heavy reliance on uncertain CBI revenues, the outlook is subject to significant downside risks.

    Addressing Supply-Side Bottlenecks to Enhance Growth

    The ECCU economies have exhibited a trend slowdown in growth due to structural factors. Supporting strong, resilient, and inclusive growth is key to reducing fiscal and external imbalances and raising living standards. An updated growth accounting analysis finds that potential growth has dropped in recent decades, reflecting declines across all components of growth, notably total factor productivity (TFP). These trends reflect a series of persistent structural impediments to economic efficiency, such as impediments to credit growth, burdensome administrative and licensing processes, and labor force skills gaps and mismatches. Recurring NDs also impair productive infrastructure and hinder human capital formation, placing additional limits on TFP growth. Against this backdrop, the regional “Big Push” effort that calls for a doubling of ECCU GDP in the coming decade is a welcome aspirational initiative, both in sensitizing the membership to key growth impediments and in helping to build a regional consensus on a roadmap for reform.

    A multipronged and coordinated set of policies that build on ongoing efforts is recommended to alleviate major structural impediments to growth. Improving labor market outcomes requires a renewed effort to attune human capital to economic needs and development priorities. This involves expanding vocational training and modernizing education systems, supplemented by policies to alleviate youth and gender employment gaps, such as active labor market policies and greater access to child and elderly care. Enhancing efficient and resilient capital investment could be supported by coordinated regional efforts to accelerate the green energy transition (GET), safeguard and optimize the CBI funding model, and strengthen disaster preparedness of the capital stock. Regional mechanisms such as the ECCB’s Renewable Energy Infrastructure Investment Facility (REIIF) hold potential to scale up countries’ access to finance that can be usefully supported through regional frameworks to pool procurement and harmonize modern regulatory standards. Last year’s regional agreement to buttress the integrity of CBI regimes through enhanced regulatory, information exchange, and pricing frameworks is a welcome step to safeguard critical investment inflows. The planned regional CBI regulator provides an opportunity to address gaps in institutional reporting and strengthen accountability frameworks to ensure the productive allocation of all CBI inflows. Fallout from Hurricane Beryl highlights a potential role for common building standards across the region and the importance of prioritizing resilient infrastructure investment. Finally, policies to enhance the business environment—such as by digitalizing key services, streamlining cumbersome licensing and administrative processes, and improving financial intermediation—are essential to boost productivity and growth potential.

    Building Resilient Fiscal Frameworks to Support Fiscal Sustainability and Inclusive Growth

    The regional priority remains to rebuild fiscal buffers, reduce public debt levels consistent with the regional debt anchor, and improve fiscal resilience to shocks. Fiscal resilience is essential for macro stability and continuing to protect the quasi-currency board. The region’s high vulnerability to recurring NDs, coupled with periodic procyclical fiscal policies, are key drivers of the ECCU’s ongoing fiscal sustainability challenges. With 2035 only a decade away, sizable efforts are needed in some countries to achieve the regional debt target. Fiscal space is also needed to guard against risks and finance social spending and growth- and resilience-enhancing investment.

    This calls for a region-wide establishment of robust national fiscal resilience strategies and frameworks. Strong national medium-term fiscal frameworks (MTFFs), that incorporate well-designed country-specific fiscal rules, supported by specific fiscal measures and plans and strong fiscal institutions, will help instill prudence and create policy space. While many ECCU members have continued to upgrade their MTFFs, there is a need to enhance effective operational frameworks and underpinning fiscal policy and contingency plans that link fiscal operations with longer-term objectives. In addition, comprehensive ex-ante resilience strategies to enable resilient investment and adequate insurance against NDs would support debt sustainability and resilient growth. Integrating green budget tagging and a pipeline of projects into MTFFs will help anchor sustainable multi-year climate resilient investment plans and unlock global concessional financing. Expediting efforts to adopt a disaster risk financing strategy with self-insurance, contingent debt financing plans, and risk transfer arrangements will support liquidity for relief and reconstruction while safeguarding public finances. The relevant authorities should also consider frameworks with clear provisions for use of CBI revenue to avoid budget overreliance on these revenues given their potential volatility and to complement efforts with buffer and resilience building.

    Regional coordination and oversight of these efforts would help reinforce fiscal discipline and the credibility of the regional debt ceiling. To ensure the success of regional fiscal policy coordination, a strong governance framework to provide independent macroeconomic and budgetary projections and transparently assess fiscal plans, the implementation of fiscal rules, and fiscal sustainability would be beneficial. These efforts could be supported by national and/or regional independent fiscal oversight entities. International experience suggests that these entities have played an increasingly significant role in strengthening fiscal frameworks. A helpful first step could be to operationalize regular ECCB Monetary Council peer reviews of members’ fiscal strategies and progress toward the regional debt target.

    Safeguarding Financial Stability and Supporting Private Investment

    Banks’ legacy balance sheet weaknesses warrant continued policy focus. Close monitoring of agreed timelines and action plans for all extensions of implementing regional provisioning standards is important, and timely interventions should be made where necessary. Transitioning from reserve-based regulatory loan loss allowances to loss-bearing provisions would ensure appropriate recording and treatment of banks’ capital positions. Streamlining costly foreclosure and collateral sale processes and strengthening the capacity of the Eastern Caribbean Asset Management Company would support impaired asset disposal. Risks from rising overseas investments and some banks’ elevated local sovereign exposures warrant close monitoring.

    Stepped-up regional coordination would help mitigate non-bank financial system vulnerabilities. The continued rapid expansion of credit unions warrants strengthening provisioning standards, monitoring of forbearance measures, and enhancing supervisory capacity, including through greater sharing of best practices. The planned common minimum regulatory standards for non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) under the recently endorsed Eastern Caribbean Financial Standards Board (ECFSB) represent an important opportunity to establish a more level regulatory playing field between credit unions and banks. More centralized NBFI supervision would support more efficient and effective region-wide financial stability monitoring and is more acutely needed for consolidated oversight of pan-ECCU insurance companies. The ECCU’s high dependence on global property reinsurance makes it vulnerable to the evolving reassessment of climate liability risks. The risk of more sustained hardening of the reinsurance market could worsen existing underinsurance by driving up costs and reducing capacity. Strengthening monitoring of reinsurance coverage, including through more targeted data collection, would support policy preparedness to manage these risks and narrow protection gaps.

    A more systematic approach is needed to strengthen financial intermediation and private investment. Slow bank lending growth, particularly in business credit, has long limited growth-supporting investment. Notwithstanding some recovery in construction and real estate credit, much of the high system liquidity is invested overseas and the unmet credit demand has partly fueled growth of the more risk-tolerant credit unions. The region has taken important steps to address credit access constraints through the ongoing rollout of the Credit Bureau and more demand-tailored products under the Eastern Caribbean Partial Credit Guarantee Corporation. Closer coordination of these regional initiatives and national MSME development policies would support development of regional best practices in enhancing small businesses’ bankability. This would also allow more efficient scaling up of active outreach programs to foster business formalization. Competing lending programs under national development banks should closely consider their risk-bearing capacity. Strengthening the collateral infrastructure through modernized foreclosure and insolvency frameworks, development of market-based real estate indices, and reviewing any policy impediments to secondary property market liquidity can help derisk local lending opportunities and reduce credit costs. The potential credit pricing distortions from the minimum savings rate should be reviewed alongside the ongoing efforts to encourage regional retail investment and capital market development.

    Strengthening of AML/CFT frameworks remains crucial amidst the scrutiny of CBI programs and thin correspondent banking relationships. This includes completing the long-pending designation of the ECCB as the AML/CFT supervisor for banks and centralization of AML/CFT regulatory standards under the ECFSB.

    Strengthening data provision

    Greater leveraging of synergies in regional data collection and processing could help address persistent resource and capacity gaps. Regional data provision has some shortcomings that somewhat hamper surveillance. While continued IMF/CARTAC technical assistance has proven valuable in improving data timeliness and quality, progress is often impeded by persistent staffing shortages and high turnover. A regional framework with centralization of data compilation and analysis could limit processing overlaps, enhance cross-country comparability, and better leverage the limited staffing resources.

                                                                                                                    

    The IMF team thanks the authorities and private sector counterparts for their warm hospitality and insightful and constructive discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Meera Louis

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/12/021225-mcs-east-carib-currency-union-imf-cs-2025-mission-on-common-policies-for-member-countries

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Arkansas Private Nonprofits Affected by May Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Arkansas of the March 12, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 24-27, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Fulton, Madison, Marion, Nevada, Randolph and Sharp.

    Under the declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs that provide non-critical services of a governmental nature and suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. Examples of eligible non-critical PNPs include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools, and colleges.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred.

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    For more information and to apply online visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications no later than March 12.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – De La Rue plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Rathbones Group Plc
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 De La Rue Plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 11/02/2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 No

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

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

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

    Class of relevant security: 44 152/175p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 7,394,659 3.77%    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 7,394,659 3.77%    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    44 152/175p ordinary Shares Purchase 7,600 117p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

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

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    44 152/175p ordinary Shares Internal transfer from Execution-Only to Discretionary account 10,000  
    44 152/175p ordinary Shares Internal transfer from Discretionary to Execution-Only account 1,000  
    44 152/175p ordinary Shares Internal transfer from Execution-Only to Discretionary account 1,000  

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

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

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

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? No
    Date of disclosure: 12/02/2025
    Contact name: Chinwe Enyi – Compliance Department
    Telephone number: 0151 243 7053

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

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

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at.

    The MIL Network –