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  • MIL-OSI USA: Innovation Quest Turns Students into Entrepreneurs 

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    If there is one thing that Gaofei Zhang learned from a night-time equestrian class at UConn on a bitter cold evening is that a warm, comfortable pair of boots is one of life’s necessities.

    “After that night, I tried a lot of brands of boots,’’ says Zhang, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Allied Health Sciences in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural History (CAHNR). “They either weren’t warm or weren’t waterproof, or they were slippery or stiff or hard to clean. I didn’t understand why you’d call them ‘snow boots’ if they aren’t good in the snow!’’

    Zhang has a home in Mongolia where the temperature drops as low as minus-30 degrees. The locals create warm and comfortable work boots, but they aren’t stylish. Zhang thought she could adopt their footwear expertise and merge it with something fashionable, including multi-colored fur and beads.

    “As an international student, I didn’t know anything about how to start a company and I was not brave enough to create it on my own,’’ she says. Last year she brought her idea to Innovation Quest (iQ), a UConn entrepreneurship program and competition that helps students develop their ideas into thriving startups. IQ provides workshops, mentoring, and startup funding for the most promising ideas.

    Today, Zhang’s unique, handcrafted boots, marketed under the name MOGSki, are ready to go to market, and the 15 styles of boots and apres-ski accessories are drawing interest from many boutiques. Elegant and chic, they are made of sheep, mink, or cow hide and lined with shearling for added warmth.

    Innovation Quest Workshops Begin on Feb. 4; Students Vie for $30,000 in Funding 

    Zhang is one of more than 2,500 UConn students who have participated in iQ since its inception 14 years ago.  The program is open to UConn graduate and undergraduate students from any field of study.

    IQ is run by Kevin Gardiner ’06 MBA, an adjunct professor in business and engineering. He has held management positions at both startups and long-established companies, including Macy’s, Oracle, and Welcome Commerce.

    “We’re definitely looking for someone who has grit, someone who isn’t going to give up,’’ he says. “As an entrepreneur, you get far more ‘no’s’ than ‘yeses,’ and that’s something that you have to accept. I also look for someone with a passion for the problem they are tackling. When the iQ judges see that, they know they’ve got an entrepreneur whom they can bet on.”

    This year’s event will begin with a kickoff workshop at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb, 4, followed by workshops on Feb. 12, Feb. 26, and March 5. All the workshops are virtual for the convenience of students. Participants may sign up at innovationquest.uconn.edu.

    IQ had a 22% increase in participation last year, over 2023, and that’s a trend that Gardiner hopes to see continue.

    Previous participants have created everything from stuffed animals to clothing to personal care items to businesses engaged in environmental cleanup. Gardiner says that in recent years, students seem particularly interested in health tech, mobile apps, and AI-related companies, but all good idea are welcome.

    Last year’s first-place award went to Ph.D. candidate John Toribio, whose company Zemi Labs is creating wearable garments that provide biomechanical data, including heart and muscle performance.

    “UConn continues to provide more and more opportunities for student entrepreneurs, and we continue to evolve this program,’’ Gardiner says. “We welcome students who just want to dip a toe in the water, as well as those who are fully committed to creating a business.’’

    The iQ program has more than 50 expert mentors and more than half of them have been associated with the program since the beginning. Every year, iQ adds new advisers, all passionate about working with students.

    “I want all students to feel welcome,’’ Gardiner says. “We have four virtual workshops to help students understand entrepreneurship. Are you ready to launch a business? If not, what do you need to get ready? We want anyone, even those with a more remote interest, to attend and learn.’’

    After the workshops are completed, students can submit a formal application to enter the competition and compete for a share of $30,000 in funding. Final presentations are April 14 in Storrs and the top three startup companies will be announced. Many of the previous participants have gone on to start their companies or to pursue an entrepreneurial career.

    Zhang Developed Business Expertise, Confidence

    For Zhang, the last year has been enormously gratifying, both personally and professionally.

    “IQ has been an incredible journey for me. It’s not only helped sharpen my presentation skills but also expanded my knowledge across so many areas—product positioning, sales, marketing, tax, finance, IP, law, storytelling, and more,’’ she says.

    “The competition broadened my perspectives, strengthened my courage and determination, and provided invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities,’’ she says. “It’s truly been one of the most impactful milestones in my entrepreneurial journey, directly pushing forward the progress of my startup.’’

    She says she would tell anyone considering entrepreneurship to give it a try.

    “I would tell other entrepreneurs to be fearless in exploring new ideas and to use your own experiences to solve problems,’’ she says. “Be adaptable, build a network, find mentors, be persistent, and be open to both failures and successes.’’

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fengate and eMAX Health announce partnership to drive innovation in healthcare technology 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management (“Fengate”), is pleased to announce a new platform investment through its partnership with eMAX Health (“eMAX” or “the Company”). Fengate is managing this investment on behalf of the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada (LPFCEC).

    The existing management team, led by Founder and President, Julian Casciano, will continue to lead eMAX and remain significant investors in the Company alongside Fengate. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

    Founded in 2004 by Julian Casciano, eMAX has grown into a recognized leader in the fields of real-world evidence development research, market access, and patient services. The Company features an experienced team of research scientists, healthcare experts, and key opinion leaders, supported by advanced data management and technology-enabled solutions. The Company’s proprietary platforms— MAVA, EMRClaims+, and HealthPACER— are at the forefront of tech-enabled pharmaceutical commercialization.

    “We are delighted to support Julian, a dynamic founder with an ambitious vision for eMAX, and help fuel the Company’s continued growth,” said Maxim Tcherner, Principal at Fengate Private Equity. “eMAX has rapidly scaled, establishing a leading position in a fragmented industry, all while staying true to its client-centric culture. The investment is strongly aligned with our strategy of partnering with exceptional management teams and providing differentiated services in high-growth sectors. eMAX will be a valuable addition to Fengate’s healthcare portfolio.”

    “eMAX is excited to partner with Fengate as the Company enters its next phase of growth. We will be able to accelerate new product development across high-demand tech-enabled services, enhance our portfolio of innovative capabilities, and significantly expand customer account management,” said Julian Casciano, Founder and President of eMAX Health. “With our aligned values and ambition, I believe the Fengate partnership will help our customers improve the lives of patients around the world.”

    North Point Mergers and Acquisitions served as financial advisors and Coviello Weber & Dahill LLP served as legal advisors to eMAX. Torys LLP served as legal advisor to Fengate.

    MEDIA CONTACT:

    Gea Koleva
    Marketing and Communications Manager
    Fengate Asset Management
    Gea.Koleva@fengate.com
    289-834-3728

    About eMAX Health 

    eMAX Health, founded in 2004 and headquartered in Delray Beach, Florida, is a leader in market access innovation, real-world evidence development research, and digitally connected patient access and outcomes monitoring solutions. eMAX Health serves as a partner of choice to the largest global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Learn more at www.emaxhealth.net/.

    About Fengate Asset Management 

    Fengate is a leading alternative investment manager, with more than $10 billion of capital commitments under management, focused on private equity, infrastructure, and real estate strategies. With offices and team members across Canada and the United States, Fengate leverages 50 years of entrepreneurial experience to deliver excellent investment results on behalf of its clients. Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management, is a differentiated investment platform supporting the growth ambitions of entrepreneurs through transformative capital. Learn more at www.fengate.com.

    About the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada
    Established in 1972, the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada (LPFCEC) is one of the fastest growing multi-employer pension funds across Canada, voted top 10 pension funds by Benefits Canada. With a diverse investment portfolio and over $12 billion in assets, LPFCEC has yielded positive returns for the plan, great work opportunities for LiUNA members, and has created many needed institutions across North America through a broad range of investments. Learn more at www.lpfcec.org. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Rapsodo Partners with MLB All-Star Jeff McNeil

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ST. LOUIS, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rapsodo, the company known for giving athletes the tools they need to play like never before, announces its partnership with Jeff McNeil, a two-time Major League Baseball All-Star and second baseman for the New York Mets. Also known as the “Flying Squirrel” for diving after balls on the diamond, McNeil has been training with Rapsodo for the last few years.

    “Rapsodo and technology in sports is great. It has helped improve my game, like the last few weeks I used Rapsodo golf to help me choose between my old Callaway driver versus a new one to prepare for this tournament,” McNeil said. “The best part is that I’ve been able to use Rapsodo for golf and baseball. I use it before every game in the batting cage looking at the numbers. It helps me understand which pitches I can do the most damage on – hit the hardest or furthest, so it has been a big part of my game.”

    McNeil’s passions lie beyond baseball; he’s also an avid golf player. Not only does he train with Rapsodo’s diamond sports ball flight monitors to perfect his swing, but he also uses Rapsodo’s Mobile Launch Monitor 2 Pro (MLM2PRO) to level up his golf game. With the MLM2PRO, McNeil practices his skills and improves his game anytime, anywhere, by tracking key performance metrics on golf courses as well as simulated courses and ranges.

    He will put his golf skills to the test at the LPGA Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions from January 30 to February 2, 2025. Here, the top amateur golfers are invited to participate in the main Pro-Am tournament. McNeil made his debut during this tournament last year, where he won the celebrity field after scoring 138 points using a modified Stableford format.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with Jeff McNeil, a multi-sport athlete who constantly pushes the boundaries of performance,” said Katrina Hartwell, Rapsodo U.S. general manager. “Jeff exemplifies how our technology can drive success across different sports, and we’re proud to support athletes like him in reaching their full potential, whether on the diamond or the golf course.”

    Click here for high-resolution photos and videos.

    For more information on Rapsodo’s technology, visit Rapsodo.com.

    About Rapsodo
    Rapsodo defies limits with affordable, professional-grade technology to enhance the way athletes play across the world. Used by MLB teams, NCAA Division I Champions, and elite PGA coaches, Rapsodo technology has earned multiple MyGolfSpy’s Best Of Golf Awards and the Official Player Development Partner of USA Baseball, affirming Rapsodo’s leadership in golf, baseball, and softball tech. Do what you didn’t think was possible. Play Without Limits. Play with Rapsodo. Discover more at Rapsodo.com.

    Media Contact:
    Matt Greenfield
    Uproar by Moburst for Rapsodo
    matthew.greenfield@moburst.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HomeTrust Announces the Sale of Knoxville Branches to Apex Bank

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ASHEVILLE, N.C. and CAMDEN, Tenn., Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: HTBI) (“Company”), the holding company of HomeTrust Bank (“HomeTrust”), and Apex Bank (“Apex”) today announced that HomeTrust and Apex have entered into a definitive purchase and assumption agreement (the “agreement”) under which Apex will acquire HomeTrust’s two branches in Knoxville, Tennessee. Under the terms of the agreement, Apex will acquire the physical locations, related fixed assets, and substantially all the customer deposit accounts which are currently estimated at $42 million. HomeTrust will retain the loan accounts associated with the branches.

    “This transaction aligns with our strategic plan to tighten our geographic footprint, improve our branch efficiencies, and allocate our capital to support our long-term growth in other core markets,” said Hunter Westbrook, HomeTrust’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

    Matt Daniels, President and CEO of Apex Bank said, “Being locally owned and operated, we are excited to expand our footprint in Knoxville. This investment will allow us to better serve customers and support the community. We will continue to look for opportunities to expand our presence in the area and remain committed to providing personalized financial solutions that help individuals and businesses thrive.”

    The proposed transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by applicable regulatory authorities, is currently anticipated to close in the second quarter of 2025.

    Piper Sandler & Co. served as HomeTrust’s financial advisor for the transaction, while Silver, Freedman Taff & Tiernan LLP provided legal counsel. Baker Donelson provided legal counsel for Apex.

    About HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.
    HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for HomeTrust Bank. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had assets of $4.6 billion. The Bank, founded in 1926, is a North Carolina state chartered, community-focused financial institution committed to providing value added relationship banking with over 30 locations as well as online/mobile channels. Locations include: North Carolina (the Asheville metropolitan area, the “Piedmont” region, Charlotte, and Raleigh/Cary), South Carolina (Greenville and Charleston), East Tennessee (Kingsport/Johnson City, Knoxville, and Morristown), Southwest Virginia (Roanoke Valley) and Georgia (Greater Atlanta).

    About Apex Bank
    Apex Bank was founded in 1931 and is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee. Apex Bank has experienced tremendous growth since 2008, increasing total assets from $157 million to over $1.35 billion in 2025. The bank currently has 20 retail locations and a Knoxville-based national mortgage servicing center. Apex Bank has consistently been ranked as one of the best-performing community banks in the nation for the past 16 years, including the award of Tennessee’s Top Community Bank from Independent Community Bankers of America and other leading rankings in the financial industry.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but instead are based on certain assumptions including statements with respect to the Company’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, assumptions and statements about future economic performance and projections of financial items. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated or implied by forward-looking statements. The factors that could result in material differentiation include, but are not limited to, the impact of bank failures or adverse developments involving other banks and related negative press about the banking industry in general on investor and depositor sentiment; the remaining effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on general economic and financial market conditions and on public health, both nationally and in the Company’s market areas; natural disasters, including the effects of Hurricane Helene; expected revenues, cost savings, synergies and other benefits from merger and acquisition activities might not be realized to the extent anticipated, within the anticipated time frames, or at all, costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected, and goodwill impairment charges might be incurred; increased competitive pressures among financial services companies; changes in the interest rate environment; changes in general economic conditions, both nationally and in our market areas; legislative and regulatory changes; and the effects of inflation, a potential recession, and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission – which are available on the Company’s website at www.htb.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Any of the forward-looking statements that the Company makes in this press release or in the documents the Company files with or furnishes to the SEC are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions at the time they are made and may turn out to be wrong because of inaccurate assumptions, the factors described above or other factors that management cannot foresee. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

    www.htb.com
    www.apexbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Auburn National Bancorporation, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights:

    • Net interest margin (tax-equivalent) improved 44 basis points to 3.09%, compared to 4Q 2023
    • Net interest income (tax-equivalent) increased 14% compared to 4Q 2023
    • Average loans increased 3% compared to 4Q 2023
    • Nonperforming assets were $0.5 million or 0.05% of total assets at December 31, 2024

    AUBURN, Ala., Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Auburn National Bancorporation (Nasdaq: AUBN) reported net income of $1.6 million, or $0.45 per share, for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $1.7 million, or $0.50 per share, for the third quarter of 2024, and a net loss of $(4.0) million, or $(1.14) per share, for the fourth quarter of 2023. The net loss for the fourth quarter of 2023 reflected the sale of $117.6 million of available-for-sale securities for an after-tax loss of $(4.7) million, or $(1.35) per share related to the Company’s balance sheet repositioning strategy. Excluding this non-routine item, net earnings for the fourth quarter of 2023 would have been $0.7 million, or $0.21 per share.

    For the full year 2024, the Company reported net earnings of $6.4 million, or $1.83 per share, compared to $1.4 million, or $0.40 per share, for 2023. Excluding the loss on sale of securities related to the balance sheet repositioning strategy during 2023, described above, net earnings for the full year 2023 would have been $6.1 million, or $1.75 per share.

    “Our fourth quarter and full year results reflect solid revenue growth, strong asset quality, and controlled expenses,” said David A. Hedges, President and CEO. “Except for the first quarter of 2024, following the balance sheet repositioning, our quarterly cost of deposits decreased for the first time since the third quarter of 2022. We remain optimistic that our net interest margin will continue to improve in 2025 as recent cuts in the federal funds rate should reduce our cost of deposits and still allow our earning asset yields to improve as loans and securities re-price. While the interest rate environment remains challenging for the banking industry, our capital and liquidity are strong and we are well positioned to meet the needs of our customers,” said Mr. Hedges.

    Net interest income (tax-equivalent) was $7.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $6.8 million in the third quarter of 2024, and $6.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in net interest income was primarily due to improved net interest margin.

    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent) was 3.09% in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 3.05% in the third quarter of 2024, and 2.65% in the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in net interest margin compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 was primarily due to loan growth and the balance sheet repositioning strategy mentioned above, which resulted in a more favorable asset mix and higher yields on interest-earning assets in 2024. Average loans for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $567.6 million, a 3% increase from the fourth quarter of 2023.

    Nonperforming assets were $0.5 million, or 0.05% of total assets, at December 31, 2024, compared to $0.8 million, or 0.08% of total assets at September 30, 2024, and $0.9 million, or 0.09% of total assets, at December 31, 2023.

    The Company recorded a negative provision for credit losses of $(48) thousand in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to a negative provision for credit losses of $(127) thousand in the third quarter of 2024, and a provision for credit losses of $326 thousand in the fourth quarter of 2023.

    At December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024, the Company’s allowance for credit losses was $6.9 million, or 1.22% of total loans, compared to $6.9 million, or 1.23% of total loans at December 31, 2023. Although the balance of the allowance for credit losses was largely unchanged, the decrease in the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans was primarily due to improved economic forecasts.

    Noninterest income was $0.8 million for both the fourth and third quarters of 2024, compared to a loss of $5.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. Excluding the pre-tax securities loss of $6.3 million related to the balance sheet repositioning strategy in 2023, noninterest income would have been $0.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2023.

    Noninterest expense was $5.5 million in both the fourth and third quarters of 2024, compared to $5.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in noninterest expense compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 was primarily related to decreases in salaries and benefits expense, net occupancy and equipment expense, and professional fees expense.

    The provision for income tax expense was $0.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to income tax expense of $0.5 million for the third quarter of 2024, and an income tax benefit of $(1.5) million for the fourth quarter of 2023.

    The effective tax rate for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 34.73%, compared to 23.46% for the third quarter of 2024, and an effective tax rate of (27.53)% for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in the effective tax rate compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 was primarily due to an increase in pre-tax earnings in 2024 resulting from our balance sheet repositioning and the pre-tax loss incurred in the fourth quarter of 2023 from selling securities in such balance sheet repositioning. Also, the provision for income tax expense and the effective tax rates for the fourth and third quarters of 2024 included discrete tax items associated with provision to return adjustments in conjunction with the final 2023 tax return filing and the resolution of state examination activities, which resulted in additional tax expense. Excluding these discrete items, the effective tax rate for the fourth and third quarters of 2024, would have been 21.55% and 18.96%, respectively. The Company’s effective income tax rate otherwise is principally affected by tax-exempt earnings from the Company’s investments in municipal securities, bank-owned life insurance, and New Markets Tax Credits.

    Total assets were $977.3 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $990.1 million at September 30, 2024 and $975.3 million at December 31, 2023. Loans, net of unearned income were $564.0 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $565.7 million at September 30, 2024 and $557.3 million at December 31, 2023. Growth in construction and land development loans since December 31, 2023 was partially offset by paydowns in commercial and industrial loans. Total deposits were $895.8 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $901.7 million at September 30, 2024 and $896.2 million at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024, the Company had $74.1 million of reciprocal deposits sold off-balance sheet, compared to $37.8 million at September 30, 2024, and $59.0 million at December 31, 2023. The Company had no brokered deposits, FHLB advances or other wholesale borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, or December 31, 2023.

    At December 31, 2024, the Company’s consolidated stockholders’ equity (book value) was $78.3 million, or $22.41 per share, compared to $84.3 million, or $24.14 per share, and $76.5 million, or $21.90 per share, at December 31, 2023. The decrease from September 30, 2024 was primarily driven by other comprehensive losses of $6.7 million due to higher market interest rates that led to an increase in unrealized losses on securities available-for-sale, net of tax, and cash dividends paid of $1.0 million, partially offset by net earnings of $1.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2024. The increase from December 31, 2023 was primarily driven by net earnings of $6.4 million, which was partially offset by cash dividends paid of $3.8 million, other comprehensive losses of $0.6 million related to unrealized gains/losses on securities available-for-sale, net of tax, and a $0.3 million one-time charge for the cumulative effect to adopt a new accounting standard on January 1, 2024. Unrealized losses on securities do not affect the Bank’s capital for regulatory capital purposes.

    The Company’s tangible common equity (“TCE”) ratio or total equity to total assets ratio was 8.01% at December 31, 2024, compared to 8.52% at September 30, 2024, and 7.84% at December 31, 2023. All of the Company’s marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale. Therefore, any changes in the fair value of the Company’s securities portfolio are reflected in total equity, net of tax, under generally accepted accounting principles.

    The Company paid cash dividends of $0.27 per share in the fourth quarter of 2024. At December 31, 2024, the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios were well above the minimum amounts required to be “well capitalized” under current regulatory standards.

    About Auburn National Bancorporation, Inc.

    Auburn National Bancorporation, Inc. (the “Company”) is the parent company of AuburnBank (the “Bank”), with total assets of approximately $977 million. The Bank is an Alabama state-chartered bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System, which has operated continuously since 1907. Both the Company and the Bank are headquartered in Auburn, Alabama. The Bank conducts its business in East Alabama, including Lee County and surrounding areas. The Bank operates seven full-service branches in Auburn, Opelika, Valley, and Notasulga, Alabama. The Bank also operates a loan production office in Phenix City, Alabama. Additional information about the Company and the Bank may be found by visiting www.auburnbank.com.

    Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including, without limitation, statements about future financial and operating results, costs and revenues, the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related government, Federal Reserve monetary and regulatory actions, including the remaining effects of pandemic-related economic stimulus and economic conditions generally and in our markets, loan demand, mortgage lending activity, changes in the mix of our earning assets (including those generating tax exempt income or tax credits) and our mix and cost of deposits and wholesale liabilities, net interest income and margin, yields on earning assets, the market values and performance of securities held, effects of inflation, including Federal Reserve monetary policies which were tightened in response to inflation beginning in 2022 through increases in the target federal funds rate and reductions in the Federal Reserve’s Treasury and mortgage-backed securities (MBS) holdings, and more recent monetary loosening through increased reinvestment of maturing Treasury securities and reinvestment in agency debt and MBS in Treasury securities beginning in June 2024 and beginning September 17, 2024, three reductions in the target federal funds rate totaling 100 basis points to a current target of 4.25-4.50%, changes in the shape of the yield curve, interest rates (generally and those applicable to our assets and liabilities) and changes in our asset values, especially investment securities, as a result of monetary policies and interest rate changes, noninterest income, loan performance, loan deferrals and modifications, nonperforming assets, other real estate owned, provision for credit losses, including the continuing effects of the application of the new CECL accounting standard adopted on January 1, 2023 and our CECL models, including possible adjustments to the fair values of securities available for sale in lieu of other-than-temporary impairments, charge-offs, collateral values, credit quality, asset sales, insurance claims, and market trends, as well as statements with respect to our objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements that are not historical facts. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

    Forward-looking statements, with respect to our beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control, and which may cause the actual results, performance, achievements, or financial condition of the Company or the Bank to be materially different from future results, performance, achievements, or financial condition expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You should not expect us to update any forward-looking statements.

    All written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary notice, together with those risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and otherwise in our other SEC reports and filings.

    Explanation of Certain Unaudited Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This press release contains financial information determined by methods other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). The attached financial highlights include certain designated net interest income amounts presented on a tax-equivalent basis, a non-GAAP financial measure, and the presentation and calculation of the efficiency ratio, a non-GAAP measure. Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures in its analysis of the Company’s performance and believes the presentation of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis provides comparability of net interest income from both taxable and tax-exempt sources and facilitates comparability within the industry. Similarly, the efficiency ratio is a common measure that facilitates comparability with other financial institutions. Although the Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures enhance investors’ understanding of its business and performance, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered an alternative to GAAP. Along with the attached financial highlights, the Company provides reconciliations between the GAAP financial measures and these non-GAAP financial measures.

    For additional information, contact:
    David A. Hedges
    President and CEO
    (334) 821-9200

    Financial Highlights (unaudited)                                      
            Quarter ended     Year ended December 31,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   December 31, 2024       September 30, 2024       December 31, 2023       2024         2023    
    Results of Operations                                      
    Net interest income (a) $ 6,988       $ 6,811       $ 6,154       $ 27,204       $ 26,745    
    Less: tax-equivalent adjustment   19         21         95         79         417    
      Net interest income (GAAP)   6,969         6,790         6,059         27,125         26,328    
    Noninterest income   845         846         (5,429 )       3,474         (2,981 )  
      Total revenue   7,814         7,636         630         30,599         23,347    
    Provision for credit losses   (48 )       (127 )       326         36         135    
    Noninterest expense   5,472         5,500         5,803         22,166         22,594    
    Income tax expense (benefit)   830         531         (1,514 )       2,000         (777 )  
    Net earnings (loss) $ 1,560       $ 1,732       $ (3,985 )     $ 6,397       $ 1,395    
                                                 
    Per share data:                                      
    Basic and diluted net earnings (loss): $ 0.45       $ 0.50       $ (1.14 )     $ 1.83       $ 0.40    
    Cash dividends declared $ 0.27       $ 0.27       $ 0.27       $ 1.08       $ 1.08    
    Weighted average shares outstanding:   3,493,699         3,493,699         3,493,614         3,493,690         3,498,030    
    Shares outstanding, at period end   3,493,699         3,493,699         3,493,614         3,493,699         3,493,614    
    Book value $ 22.41       $ 24.14       $ 21.90       $ 22.41       $ 21.90    
    Common stock price:                                      
      High $ 24.57       $ 24.35       $ 21.99       $ 24.57       $ 24.50    
      Low   20.06         17.50         19.72         16.63         18.80    
      Period-end $ 23.49       $ 22.90       $ 21.28       $ 23.49       $ 21.28    
        To earnings ratio (c)   12.77   x     91.60   x     53.20   x     12.84   x     53.20   x
        To book value   105   %     95   %     97   %     105   %     97   %
    Performance ratios:                                      
    Return on average equity (annualized):   7.49   %     9.10   %     (26.40 ) %     8.21   %     2.05   %
    Return on average assets (annualized):   0.63   %     0.71   %     (1.56 ) %     0.65   %     0.14   %
    Dividend payout ratio   60.00   %     54.00   %     (23.68 ) %     59.02   %     270.00   %
    Other financial data:                                      
    Net interest margin (a)   3.09   %     3.05   %     2.65   %     3.06   %     2.89   %
    Effective income tax rate   34.73   %     23.46   %     (27.53 ) %     23.82   %     (125.73 ) %
    Efficiency ratio (b)   69.86   %     71.83   %     800.41   %     72.25   %     95.08   %
    Asset Quality:                                      
    Nonperforming assets:                                      
      Nonperforming (nonaccrual) loans $ 503       $ 775       $ 911       $ 503       $ 911    
        Total nonperforming assets $ 503       $ 775       $ 911       $ 503       $ 911    
                                                 
    Net (recoveries) charge-offs $ (16 )     $ 60       $ 173       $ (14 )     $ 46    
    Allowance for credit losses as a % of:                                      
      Loans   1.22   %     1.22   %     1.23   %     1.22   %     1.23   %
      Nonperforming loans   1,366   %     887   %     753   %     1,366   %     753   %
    Nonperforming assets as a % of:                                      
      Loans and other real estate owned   0.09   %     0.14   %     0.16   %     0.09   %     0.16   %
      Total assets   0.05   %     0.08   %     0.09   %     0.05   %     0.09   %
    Nonperforming loans as a % of total loans   0.09   %     0.14   %     0.16   %     0.09   %     0.16   %
    Net (recoveries) charge-offs                                      
    as a % of average loans   (0.01 ) %     0.04   %     0.13   %     —   %     0.01   %
                                                 
    Selected average balances:                                      
    Securities $ 255,168       $ 251,723       $ 354,065       $ 258,155       $ 387,488    
    Loans, net of unearned income   567,634         571,651         550,938         568,378         523,838    
    Total assets   991,275         982,656         1,020,476         982,268         1,021,808    
    Total deposits   904,605         904,860         953,674         902,429         946,791    
    Total stockholders’ equity   83,325         76,113         60,372         77,921         68,066    
    Selected period end balances:                                      
    Securities $ 243,012       $ 258,285       $ 270,910       $ 243,012       $ 270,910    
    Loans, net of unearned income   564,017         565,699         557,294         564,017         557,294    
    Allowance for credit losses   6,871         6,876         6,863         6,871         6,863    
    Total assets   977,324         990,143         975,255         977,324         975,255    
    Total deposits   895,824         901,724         896,243         895,824         896,243    
    Total stockholders’ equity   78,292         84,336         76,507         78,292         76,507    
                                                 
    (a) Tax equivalent. See “Explanation of Certain Unaudited Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of  
      GAAP to non-GAAP Measures (unaudited).”  
    (b) Efficiency ratio is the result of noninterest expense divided by the sum of noninterest income and tax-equivalent  
      net interest income. See “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Measures (unaudited)” below.  
    (c) Calculated by dividing period end share price by earnings per share for the previous four quarters.  
    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Measures (unaudited):  
                               
          Quarter ended December 31,     Years ended December 31,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2023     2022     2023     2022  
    Net interest income, as reported (GAAP) $ 6,059   $ 7,471   $ 26,328   $ 27,166  
    Tax-equivalent adjustment   95     117     417     456  
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent) $ 6,154   $ 7,588   $ 26,745   $ 27,622  
                               

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GCM Grosvenor to Present at the UBS Financial Services Conference on February 11, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GCM Grosvenor (Nasdaq: GCMG), a global alternative asset management solutions provider, will present at the UBS Financial Services Conference on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 2:40 p.m. ET.

    A link to the live audio webcast of the presentation is available on GCM Grosvenor’s public shareholders website and the event website. For those unable to listen to the live audio webcast, a replay will be available for 180 days following the presentation. 

    About GCM Grosvenor 

    GCM Grosvenor (Nasdaq: GCMG) is a global alternative asset management solutions provider with approximately $80 billion in assets under management across private equity, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and absolute return investment strategies. The firm has specialized in alternatives for more than 50 years and is dedicated to delivering value for clients by leveraging its cross-asset class and flexible investment platform. GCM Grosvenor’s experienced team of approximately 550 professionals serves a global client base of institutional and individual investors. The firm is headquartered in Chicago, with offices in New York, Toronto, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul and Sydney. For more information, visit: gcmgrosvenor.com. 

    Public Shareholders Contact 
    Stacie Selinger 
    sselinger@gcmlp.com 
    312-506-6583 

    Media Contact 
    Tom Johnson and Abigail Ruck
    H/Advisors Abernathy 
    tom.johnson@h-advisors.global / abigail.ruck@h-advisors.global 
    212-371-5999 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dave Cantin Group Positions for Growth in 2025 with New Leadership Appointments and Promotions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dave Cantin Group (DCG), a leading mergers and acquisitions advisory company to retail automotive groups and their owners, has announced several strategic leadership advancements and new hires to support its growth in 2025 being fueled by an accelerating M&A environment as part of its ambitious growth strategy for 2025.

    The industry’s largest and most experienced executive leadership team realigns roles in preparation for a milestone year. Brian Traugott has been promoted to Chief of Staff to President and CEO Dave Cantin and Chief Business and Strategy Officer Brian Gordon. Other executive appointments included Tony Karabon as Executive Vice President, Head of Acquisition Management, and Stephen Jones as Executive Vice President, Head of Acquisition Strategy.

    Within the DCG central support team, Brandon Werley has been promoted to Vice President of M&A Advisory Services, bolstering DCG’s client service group, which utilizes the company’s proprietary AI tool, Jump IQ. Denise Salzstein has moved to Director of CRM, and Cameron Markeson to Associate, Business Analysis. The company also welcomed Zach Orr as Marketing Coordinator.

    All these moves follow a robust year in 2024 for DCG and foreshadow what is shaping up to be the company’s busiest year in history in 2025. “The number of large, quality deals we already have scheduled for closing in the first half of 2025, combined with the current level of client activity indicated that we needed to staff up across the organization to meet our clients’ needs,” said Dave Cantin, President and CEO of Dave Cantin Group. “We’re excited to see our team growing and to maximize the exceptional talent of our Executive Leadership Team, delivering unparalleled service, innovation, and results for our clients.”

    About Dave Cantin Group

    The Dave Cantin Group is a leading automotive M&A advisory company specializing in acquisitions, divestitures, intelligence, and other advisory services. The company is the M&A services provider of choice for North America’s top automotive dealership groups, advising on approximately 40 transactions annually, DCG is differentiated by its advisory approach, long term lens on client relationships, and commitment to market intelligence tools that inform DCG and client strategies. In 2023, DCG became the only retail automotive M&A company with a significant strategic investor, welcoming Kaltroco to the DCG family.

    Through its M&A intelligence division, DCG produces automotive content and delivers relevant, timely marketing intelligence, including the automotive industry Market Outlook Report (MOR). Together with CBT News, DCG produces the Inside M&A studio show and podcast to share stories, news and trends impacting the retail automotive industry. DCG’s proprietary AI-enabled software, Jump IQ, anchors its advisory services that support retail automotive dealers in developing informed M&A strategies and making smarter M&A decisions.

    The company’s nonprofit initiative, DCG Giving, funds child and adolescent cancer research and treatment in communities nationwide and other worthy charitable initiatives. DCG team members regularly feature on the industry speaking circuit and are regularly cited by top national and global news outlets. For more information, please visit davecantingroup.com.

    Media Contact:

    Katie Merx

    katiemerx@gmail.com

    313.510.5090

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f162c27f-9bab-4734-b906-64b9644192bc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ESET Launches New Series of Speakeasy Security, a Tech and Cybersecurity Podcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity and threat detection, today announced a new series of its cybersecurity podcast, Speakeasy Security. As part of a 10-episode series, Speakeasy Security will be co-hosted by ESET Chief Security Evangelist Tony Anscombe and Co-Founder and CEO of Cysurance Kirsten Bay – providing lively commentary on the latest tech, privacy and cybersecurity headlines and offering listeners tips to protect themselves from cybercriminals.

    Available on a range of popular podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Podcast Index, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Deezer, Podcast Addict, Listen Notes and Podchaser, the first episode will air on “Trust in Technology—AI and Driverless Cars” where Anscombe and Bay discuss the public’s embrace and skepticism towards the technology.

    “I’m excited to have Kirsten join me at Speakeasy Security – delivering a fresh perspective from her years working to help consumers, SMBs and enterprises manage cybersecurity risk,” said Tony Anscombe. “Each episode, Kirsten and I will explore how new technologies and AI advancements are impacting our personal and professional lives, and the cybersecurity and privacy implications. We will aim to make complex tech issues understandable and enjoyable, while offering practical tips and advice for both businesses and consumers.”

    Bay, Co-Founder and CEO of Cysurance, is a sought-after public speaker and respected leader in the cyber insurance industry. She brings 25 years of expertise in financial services, risk intelligence and cybersecurity to the podcast in her role as co-host. Anscombe is a 30-plus year security industry expert and established author, blogger and speaker on new policies, regulations and the cybersecurity threat landscape. Speakeasy Security will also continue to feature ESET’s leading researchers and threat detection experts, as well as recognized cybersecurity influencers and guests from across the tech universe.

    “I am thrilled to join Speakeasy Security as a co-host and to explore how new technologies, smart devices and privacy-focused legislations will impact society and everyday users,” said Kirsten Bay, Co-Founder and CEO of Cysurance. “My goal with Tony is to offer thought-provoking insights and practical advice to help our audience navigate and stay secure in an ever-evolving digital landscape.”

    Speakeasy Security adds to ESET’s body of original content, which includes its award-winning blog WeLiveSecurity. Featuring commentary from ESET’s global security researchers, WeLiveSecurity offers in-depth knowledge of the latest threats and security trends, views and insights, video tutorials and advice for everyday internet users on how to secure data effectively. Follow the blog on Twitter at @welivesecurity and follow Anscombe at @TonyAtESET and Bay at @cyberkbay.

    For more information on Speakeasy Security, visit https://www.eset.com/us/about/newsroom/podcast-list/.

    About ESET
    ESET provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of known and emerging cyber threats — securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud or mobile protection, its AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multi-factor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. An ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

    Media contact:
    Jessica Beffa
    Jessica.beffa@eset.com
    720-413-4938

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: KnowBe4’s Top 10 Tips to Take Charge of Your Data on Data Privacy Day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAMPA BAY, FL, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KnowBe4, the world-renowned cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, celebrates Data Privacy Day with practical and impactful recommendations to help individuals and organizations take charge of their data security.

    In an age where data is constantly collected, shared, and monetized, Data Privacy Day serves as an annual reminder about the importance of protecting and facilitating online privacy. Data Privacy Day began in the United States in January 2008 as an extension of the Data Protection Day celebration in Europe and is officially led by NCSA in North America. The National Cybersecurity Alliance has expanded it into Data Privacy Week, with the 2025 theme ‘Take Control of Your Data’, which encourages individuals to reclaim their digital autonomy through simple, actionable steps to make informed privacy choices. For organizations, the message emphasizes the need to respect and prioritize users’ data privacy.

    Data privacy is more critical than ever, especially when social media platforms, AI chatbots and connected devices have increased publicly available digital footprints. This creates opportunities for the misuse of personal information and data traces which can lead to incidents of identity theft, financial fraud, and even psychological harm.

    Recognizing the shared responsibility of safeguarding data, DePaula shares the 10 top tips for individuals and organizations to help take control of their data in 2025:

    Tips for Individuals

    1. Vet your apps and tools: Before using new apps, check their data usage policies, control options, and origin to ensure they are trustworthy.
    2. Optimize IoT device privacy: Adjust settings in your IoT device apps to enhance privacy, such as disabling voice recordings, limiting data storage, or controlling ad preferences.
    3. Educate your family: Discuss online safety with family members, especially children, covering topics like avoiding sharing personal information, recognizing suspicious links, and managing location sharing.
    4. Set up a reputable password manager: Use it for critical accounts and generate strong, unique passwords.
    5. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Activate MFA, preferably with a FIDO token, for critical accounts as an added layer of protection.

    Tips for Organizations

    1. Minimize data collection: Only collect and store data that is essential for business operations. Eliminate unnecessary personal or payment information.
    2. Communicate transparency in privacy policies: Clearly explain what data is collected, how it is used, and with whom it is shared.
    3. Train employees: Educate all employees on data protection regulations, while training them to recognize the latest social engineering attacks and other security risks.
    4. Encrypt personal data: Protect personal data—at rest and in transit—from unauthorized access or exposure.
    5. Vet vendors and partners: As a ‘responsible party’, your organization is responsible and accountable for protecting the data of its subject – even if the processing is outsourced to third parties. Ensure that any external parties handling your organization’s data maintain a high standard of privacy and protection.

    “The new year brings a wave of challenges, especially with the rapid advancements and creation of AI-driven technologies,” said DePaula. “For AI to function effectively, it relies on vast amounts of data being collected and utilized, which raises important questions about privacy, transparency, and ethics. It is up to every organization to take responsibility, not just in regards to how data is handled, but in fostering a culture of accountability. “We have an obligation to build and maintain trust as we navigate our digital landscape.”

    For more insights and best practices on data privacy, visit www.knowbe4.com.

    About KnowBe4

    KnowBe4 empowers workforces to make smarter security decisions every day. Trusted by over 70,000 organizations worldwide, KnowBe4 helps to strengthen security culture and manage human risk. KnowBe4 offers a comprehensive AI-driven ‘best-of-suite’ platform for Human Risk Management, creating an adaptive defense layer that fortifies user behavior against the latest cybersecurity threats. The HRM+ platform includes modules for awareness & compliance training, cloud email security, real-time coaching, crowdsourced anti-phishing, AI Defense Agents, and more. As the only global security platform of its kind, KnowBe4 utilizes personalized and relevant cybersecurity protection content, tools and techniques to mobilize workforces to transform from the largest attack surface to an organization’s biggest asset.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Zscaler Now Offers Natively Integrated Zero Trust Solution for RISE with SAP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zscaler, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZS), the leader in cloud security and an SAP partner, is now offering customers its Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) service, natively integrated within RISE with SAP. Zscaler Private Access™ (ZPA™) for SAP, delivered through the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform, helps enable SAP customers with on-prem ERP workloads to simplify and de-risk their cloud migration, without the complexity and risk associated with traditional VPNs.

    As per Zscaler’s 2024 VPN Risk report, 56% of organizations have been targets of cyberattacks exploiting VPN security vulnerabilities in the last year. These incidents underscore the growing imperative to move away from traditional perimeter-based defenses towards a more robust Zero Trust architecture to enable secure access to an organization’s most critical ERP infrastructure.

    By running ZPA within customers’ containerized RISE with SAP cloud environments, Zscaler can deliver native zero trust connectivity to SAP S/4HANA Cloud applications across deployment models, including multi-cloud or hybrid cloud. With this foundation, Zscaler also empowers customers with Zscaler Data Protection for compliance and Digital Experience Monitoring (DEM) with Zscaler Digital Experience™ (ZDX™) for an improved user experience.

    Businesses that use RISE with SAP can leverage ZPA to benefit from:

    • Secure, Agile Cloud Access: RISE with SAP combines all the components that businesses need to pursue their business transformation strategies securely. With the integration of ZPA within RISE with SAP, customers can eliminate traditional firewalls and VPNs which unlocks cloud agility and improves security and compliance.
    • Natively supported Zero Trust protection: By provisioning Zscaler connectors natively, Zero Trust access is enabled within the RISE with SAP environment, without the need for traditional VPNs. This ensures that customers can run their technology operations in a managed, secure cloud infrastructure with built-in security and data protection.
    • Secure access for workforce and business partners: ZPA delivers seamless client-based and client-less Zero Trust connectivity, ensuring secure, direct access for employees and third parties from anywhere to RISE with SAP applications and resources.

    Corporate, Customer and GSI Quotes

    “Customers have been using the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange to protect their SAP workloads across a large range of SAP applications for years,” said Punit Minocha, EVP, Business Development & Corporate Strategy at Zscaler. “Now, we are launching a solution that natively integrates within RISE with SAP to facilitate the secure migration of workloads to a managed service and provides improved user-friendliness by eliminating the burden of traditional firewalls and VPNs. Customers achieve application modernization while also securing remote access to business-critical applications and therefore facilitating the ‘working from anywhere’ culture that is so important to today’s workforce.”

    “The integration of Zscaler Private Access with RISE with SAP enables streamlined Zero Trust security across SAP applications, providing secure access for users and partners while supporting compliance and performance, no matter where their workforce, apps or data resides,” said Roland Costea, Chief Information Security Office, SAP Enterprise Cloud Services.

    “Using Zscaler Private Access platform, we can confidently enable secure, remote access to SAP resources while maintaining the flexibility and scalability needed,” said Tobias Thörmann, Network Security Architect, Volkswagen AG. “This new integrated solution that Zscaler and SAP have created is an important capability to support our digital transformation with secure cloud services.”

    “Zscaler’s ZPA integration with RISE with SAP marks a significant step forward in securing and optimizing enterprise applications in the cloud,” said Georgios Billios, Group Service Manager, Siemens AG. “By seamlessly connecting users to SAP services while maintaining the highest standards of security and performance, this partnership empowers organizations to innovate and scale with confidence in today’s digital landscape, which we will evaluate in our own RISE with SAP implementations.”

    “This innovative solution will enable organizations like ours to enhance the security and reliability of our SAP applications,” said Nataliia Iskra, Head of IT Security Operations, Deutsche Börse. “By enabling secure, zero-trust access to critical systems without the need for traditional VPNs, Zscaler empowers our teams to work with confidence, no matter where they are. This innovative approach reduces risk, ensures regulatory compliance, and ultimately strengthens the foundation of our IT security strategy.”

    “Using Zscaler’s ZPA solution to securely access SAP applications is a strategic move for organizations aiming to fortify their enterprise security,” said Britta Simms, Managing Director, Accenture. “Moving beyond traditional perimeter defenses like VPNs allows organizations to ensure that every access request is validated based on identity, context, and risk. This continuous authentication model is essential for protecting SAP applications in the cloud, enabling organizations to embrace digital transformation while maintaining a robust security posture.”

    “Modern organizations operate SAP systems across a hybrid landscape and today’s distributed workers need access to these systems from different locations,” said Sachin Singh, Managing Director, Deloitte & Touche LLP. “This new solution offered jointly by Zscaler and SAP simplifies migration of SAP applications to the cloud by allowing users to have a consistent, secure experience, no matter where these applications are hosted. With our deep technical cybersecurity knowledge and this new solution from Zscaler and SAP, we can help clients navigate data protection compliance while utilizing digital experience monitoring for optimizing user experience during the migration.”

    Join us for our exclusive virtual event featuring leaders from SAP, Siemens, Volkswagen, Deutsche Börse, Deloitte, Accenture, and Capgemini, in which they will discuss the partnership in detail. Register here.

    For more information on the latest Zscaler and SAP integration, please visit – https://www.zscaler.com/partners/sap.

    About Zscaler

    Zscaler (NASDAQ: ZS) accelerates digital transformation so customers can be more agile, efficient, resilient, and secure. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform protects thousands of customers from cyberattacks and data loss by securely connecting users, devices, and applications in any location. Distributed across more than 160 data centers globally, the SSE-based Zero Trust Exchange™ is the world’s largest in-line cloud security platform.

    SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.

    Media Contacts
    Nick Gonzalez
    press@zscaler.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bannix and VisionWave Announce filing of a registration statement on Form S-4

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, Del., Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bannix Acquisition Corp. (“Bannix”) (NASDAQ: BNIX), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company, and VisionWave Technologies, Inc. (“VisionWave”), a company specializes in the development, testing, and commercialization of advanced technologies for defense, surveillance, and homeland security applications., today announced that VisionWave Holdings, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Bannix (“VisionWave Holdings”), filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) of a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”). 

    The Registration Statement contains a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus in connection with the proposed business combination between VisionWave and Bannix. While the Registration Statement has not yet become effective and the information contained therein is subject to change, it provides important information about VisionWave, VisionWave Holdings, Bannix, and the proposed business combination. 

    CEO and Chairman of Bannix Douglas Davis, commented, “We are thrilled to reach this milestone with VisionWave as we continue the partnership. The potential of in the defense sector is immense, and this partnership positions the combined company for success. We are confident VisionWave is poised to be a leading player and are eager to continue on the path ahead.” 

    Transaction Overview 

    Under the terms of the merger agreement entered into by Bannix and VisionWave, among others, with respect to the proposed business combination, Bannix and VisionWave will merge with subsidiaries of VisionWave Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bannix that was formed for the proposed transaction (the “Merger”), with Bannix and VisionWave becoming direct wholly owned subsidiaries of VisionWave Holdings. At the effective time of the Merger, stockholders of Bannix and VisionWave immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger will receive shares of VisionWave Holdings common stock. 

    About Bannix Acquisition Corp. 

    Bannix Acquisition Corp. is a blank check company, also commonly referred to as a Special Purpose Acquisition Company, or SPAC, formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

    About VisionWave Technologies Inc.

     VisionWave Technologies Inc. is at the forefront of revolutionizing defense capabilities by integrating advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous solutions across air, ground, and sea domains. Its state-of-the-art innovations— ranging from high-resolution radars and advanced vision systems to radio frequency (RF) sensing technologies are seeking to redefine operational efficiency and precision for military and homeland security applications worldwide. From tactical ground vehicles to precision weapon control systems, VisionWave leads the development of reliable, high-performance technologies that transform defense strategies and deliver superior results, even in the most challenging environments. With headquarters in the U.S. and strategic partnerships in Canada and the United Arab Emigrants, VisionWave is uniquely positioned to serve global markets, offering cutting-edge defense solutions that address the evolving needs of security forces across the world.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements 

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) that are based on beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to Bannix and VisionWave, including statements regarding VisionWave’s business plans and growth strategies, market opportunities, and financial prospects. In some cases, you can identify forward looking statements by the following words: “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “target,” “seek” or the negative or plural of these words, or other similar expressions that are predictions or indicate future events or prospects, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to:

    (i) the risk that the previously disclosed proposed business combination (the “proposed transaction”) may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of Bannix’s securities; (ii) the risk that the proposed transaction may not be completed by Bannix’s business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the business combination deadline if sought by Bannix; (iii) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed transaction, including the approval of the proposed transaction by Bannix’s stockholders and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals; (iv) the failure to obtain adequate financing to support the future working capital needs of VisionWave and the combined company; (v) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Bannix or VisionWave related to the merger agreement and the proposed transaction; (vi) changes to the proposed structure of the proposed transaction that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations or as a condition to obtaining regulatory approval of the proposed transaction; (vii) the ability to maintain the listing of Bannix’s securities on Nasdaq; (viii) the price of Bannix’s securities, including volatility resulting from changes in the competitive and highly regulated industries in which VisionWave operates, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting VisionWave’s business and changes in the combined capital structure; and (viii) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in Bannix’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K that are available on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at www.sec.gov and other documents filed, or to be filed with the SEC by Bannix and that may be found in the Registration Statement. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. There may be additional risks that neither Bannix nor VisionWave presently know or that Bannix or VisionWave currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties that will be described in the definitive proxy statement to be filed by VisionWave Holdigns with the SEC, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and other documents filed by Bannix and VisionWave Holdings from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward looking statements, and Bannix, VisionWave and VisionWave Holdings assume no obligation and, except as required by law, do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither Bannix, VisionWave Holdings nor VisionWave gives any assurance that either Bannix or VisionWave will achieve its expectations. 

    Additional Information and Where to Find It 

    In connection with the proposed transaction, VisionWave Holdings filed with the SEC the Registration Statement on Form S-4, and after the Registration Statement is declared effective, VisionWave Holdings will mail a definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed transaction to its stockholders. This press release does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the proposed transaction and is not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the proposed transaction. VisionWave Holdings and Bannix may file other documents regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC, and Bannix’s stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and the amendments thereto, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and the other documents filed in connection with the proposed transaction, as these materials will contain important information about VisionWave, VisionWave Holdings, Bannix and the proposed transaction. When available, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials for the proposed transaction will be mailed to stockholders of Bannix as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed transaction and the other matters to be voted upon at a meeting of Bannix’s stockholders to be held to approve the proposed transaction and such other matters. Such stockholders will also be able to obtain copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC, without charge, once available, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to Bannix Acquisition Corp., 300 Delaware Avenue, Suite 210#301, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 or via email at doug.davis@bannixacquisition.com. 

    Participants in Solicitation 

    Bannix, VisionWave Holdings and VisionWave, and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Bannix’s stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Bannix’s stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction, including the names of such persons and a description of their respective interests, is set forth in Bannix’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Additional information regarding the interests of those persons and other persons who may be deemed participants in the proposed transaction may be obtained by reading the Registration Statement regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available. Stockholders will be able to obtain copies of the documents described in this paragraph that are filed with the SEC, once available, without charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to Bannix Acquisition Corp., 300 Delaware Avenue, Suite 210#301, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 or via email at doug.davis@bannixacquisition.com. 

    No Offer or Solicitation 

    This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed transaction and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of Bannix, VisionWave Holdings or VisionWave, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act. 

    Contacts 

    Bannix Acquisition Corp.
    Douglas Davis, CEO
    (302) 305-479

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Research Reveals Massive Surge in AI Adoption for Talent Acquisition in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, GoodTime released its fourth annual Hiring Insights Report, a comprehensive analysis based on an independent study of over 500 U.S. talent acquisition (TA) leaders, revealing the most pressing challenges and emerging trends shaping the hiring landscape in 2025.

    The report uncovers a challenging talent market where TA teams met just 47.9% of their hiring goals in 2024 on average, marking the lowest success rate recorded in the past four years​. Persistent bottlenecks, increasing time-to-hire, and rising candidate expectations have strained hiring efficiency across industries.

    At the same time, the report reveals key opportunities for 2025, including greater use of AI and automation, streamlined hiring tools, and a renewed focus on candidate experience — strategies that top-performing teams are already embracing to stay competitive.

    Key findings from the 2025 Hiring Insights Report:

    • Time-to-hire challenges: 60% of organizations reported longer time-to-hire in 2024, with interview cancellations and scheduling delays identified as the top bottlenecks​.
    • Surging AI adoption: 99% of talent acquisition teams now use AI and automation to streamline hiring processes, with 93% planning additional technology investments in 2025​.
    • Candidate experience focus: Top-performing teams were 55% more likely to focus on candidate experience improvements.
    • Sector-specific insights: Healthcare was the only sector to show year-over-year improvement in hiring goal attainment (56%), while retail, manufacturing, financial services, and technology all lagged further behind.

    Talent leaders eye bold moves in 2025

    “The data makes it clear — talent teams can’t afford to stay stuck in the hiring struggles of 2024,” said Ahryun Moon, CEO and Co-Founder of GoodTime. “The path forward demands bold investments in automation and AI to eliminate bottlenecks and meet hiring goals faster. But efficiency alone isn’t enough. The teams that will win in 2025 are those that balance speed with exceptional, human-centric hiring experiences.”

    The 2025 Hiring Insights Report shows that talent acquisition leaders are taking decisive action to improve hiring efficiency and outcomes in the year ahead, and focusing on five key areas to overcome hiring challenges:

    Driving operational efficiency with AI and automation

    AI and automation are now essential tools for modern talent acquisition. 99% of teams reported the use of these technologies and nearly all leaders are planning additional investments in 2025. Streamlined and automated workflows reduce administrative burdens, allowing recruiters to focus on strategic hiring efforts and improving overall operational efficiency.

    Eliminating bottlenecks in the hiring process

    Time-to-hire remains a critical challenge, with 60% of organizations reporting delays, largely due to interview cancellations and scheduling issues. Addressing these bottlenecks requires proactive strategies such as AI-powered analytics for identifying recurring issues, intelligent interviewer selection tools, and automated reminders and rescheduling workflows. These efforts help reduce scheduling conflicts and improve hiring speed.

    Enhancing the candidate experience to stay competitive

    Top-performing TA teams set themselves apart by prioritizing the candidate experience. Personalized experiences, such as branded candidate portals with real-time updates and anonymous feedback collection, keep candidates informed and engaged throughout the hiring process. Additionally, AI-driven insights help interviewers come better prepared for conversations, ensuring a smoother and more effective interview that creates a more engaging candidate experience.

    Leveraging data-driven insights for better decision-making

    Data and analytics have transformed hiring strategies, and nearly half of teams reported using AI-powered insights for better decision-making. Leading organizations are using these tools to detect inefficiencies, benchmark performance against industry standards, and implement real-time analytics for continuous process improvement, to make more informed decisions faster.

    Committing to continuous process improvement

    TA leaders emphasize the need for continuous refinement of hiring processes to stay competitive. This includes regular process audits using hiring data and feedback, ongoing interviewer training, and aligning hiring strategies with broader business goals. A culture of continuous improvement ensures hiring teams remain agile and capable of adapting to evolving market conditions.

    How challenges differed across sectors

    The 2025 Hiring Insights Report revealed that hiring challenges varied significantly across sectors. For example, healthcare was the only sector to report year-over-year improvements in hiring goal attainment, reaching 56%. Conversely, the retail and manufacturing sectors faced some of the highest struggles, with hiring goal attainment dipping to 36% — its lowest in three years.

    The financial services and technology sectors cited interview scheduling delays and capacity issues as primary barriers to success. Companies in these sectors have increasingly adopted automated interview scheduling tools and leverage AI to manage interviewer capacity more effectively. Meanwhile, the retail sector reported a surge in candidate drop-offs due to prolonged hiring timelines, highlighting the critical need for faster, more efficient hiring processes.

    The 2025 Hiring Insights Report offers further analysis and detailed recommendations for talent leaders seeking to improve hiring outcomes. The full report is available at goodtime.io.

    About GoodTime

    GoodTime elevates the entire hiring experience with human-centric AI, all while automating 90% of interview management tasks. Trusted by global talent teams at companies like Hubspot, Spotify, Priceline, and Lyft, our platform not only automates interview scheduling but also keeps candidates and interviewers deeply engaged throughout the hiring journey. Gain access to powerful insights and AI-driven recommendations to streamline processes and ensure every interviewer is always well-prepared. The result? Exceptional hiring experiences that consistently land you top talent.

    Learn more at goodtime.io.

    Media Contact

    For more information or to arrange an interview with Ahryun Moon, please contact:
    Jake Link
    press@goodtime.io

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9acc85bf-54e5-4ade-9d49-7e9ea67071df

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AuraSwiss: BaFin also warns consumers about the website auraswiss.co

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) again warns consumers about the company AuraSwiss and the services it is offering. BaFin has already issued a warning, on 3 January 2025, about AuraSwiss and its website auraswiss.net, which has since been deactivated. The unknown operators are now using the nearly identical website auraswiss.co. BaFin suspects the operators of the websites of offering consumers financial, investment and cryptoasset services without the required authorisation.

    The content of the websites is identical to other platforms that BaFin has previously warned consumers about and that display the same opening sentence: “Invest in Success Prosper with Confidence!”

    Anyone conducting banking business or providing financial, investment or cryptoasset services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    BaFin is issuing this information on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG) and section 10 (7) of the German Cryptomarkets Supervision Act (Kryptomaerkteaufsichtsgesetz).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The African Research and Innovation Hub @ Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) launched to utilise academia in advancing understanding of intra-African trade

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAIRO, Egypt, January 28, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • University lecturers, students, and researchers affiliated with National Research Institutions invited to participate and showcase their publications and prototypes at IATF2025.  

    Afreximbank (www.Afreximbank.com), in collaboration with African Union Commission and AfCFTA Secretariat, is excited to launch its new initiative the “African Research and Innovation Hub @IATF”, during the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025). The key objective is to boost academic research output and increase collaboration between academia, industry, and policy makers across Africa in the bid to drive forward intra-African trade and industrialisation. 

    The platform aims to provide an opportunity for African, Caribbean and Diaspora lecturers, students, and researchers to showcase innovative research and prototypes that contribute towards intra-African trade and industrialisation. It also seeks to develop industry collaborations and exchange knowledge with leading professionals in the field during IATF2025 in Algiers, Algeria from September 4-10, 2025. 

    The African Research and Innovation Hub @IATF aims to promote and commercialise African research and innovation. It also acknowledges that there are many talented and creative Africans across Africa, the Caribbean and the Diaspora, who have brilliant ideas, concepts, publications and prototypes but lack the relevant support required to help them nurture their ideas and commercialise them. 

    The platform provides access to more comprehensive information, relevant data, and literature whilst exposing national researchers to potential investors or venture capitalists who could assist with commercialising their research output and prototypes.  

    A key objective of the Hub is to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among lecturers and students by connecting them to trade exhibitions, start-up pitches, and networking opportunities with business leaders, potentially leading to new start-ups and increased academic-industry collaborations. It also provides opportunities for networking and potential collaboration with others in academia and practitioners across the continent, research institutions, industry, and policymakers.  

    Researchers, academics and university students are provided with access to information on emerging issues in the field of intra-African trade and can incorporate these into their research programs and academic curricula. Lastly, it enhances the capacity of lecturers and students in understanding and teaching the complexities of trade policies, trade standards, regional economic communities, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and industrialisation. 

    The hub aims to support the broader objectives of enhancing intra-African trade, fostering economic development, and building a connected, informed, and empowered next generation of African trade and investment leaders across all fields.  This hub will allow students to exhibit their prototype inventions and published research papers on select topics, which are expected to adhere to world-class standards.  

    Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President Intra-African Trade and Export Development at Afreximbank said: “IATF2025 is an important moment for African research and innovation, bringing together the brightest minds from universities and research institutions to contribute towards promoting intra-African trade and industrialisation. The African Research and Innovation Hub @IATF will serve as a groundbreaking platform for African, Caribbean and Diaspora lecturers, students, and researchers to demonstrate their capabilities, and connect with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. This is more than an opportunity to display research; it’s a unique moment to shape the future of intra-African trade and industrialisation to drive economic growth across the continent.” 

    Entries will be judged by a panel consisting of distinguished trade experts, scholars, and industry leaders from across Africa. The panel will evaluate submissions based on innovation, relevance to African trade and industrialisation, and the potential for practical application.  

    Candidates should demonstrate a number of key criteria – including academic excellence and a passion for advancing research on intra-African trade, industrialisation, leadership and initiative in projects related to trade, industrialisation and innovation, and regional economic integration; high-quality research outputs or innovative prototypes aligned with IATF’s themes and a commitment to furthering knowledge and collaboration by sharing insights from the event with their academic institutions. 

    University Lecturers, University Students, and Researchers Affiliated with National Research Institutions from Africa, the Diaspora including the Caribbean are invited to submit their applications directly through this email: ARIH@intrafricantradefair.com by 28 March 2025, 23:59 GMT. 

    You can find out the eligibility criteria, application requirements and other details on the IATF2025 website: https://apo-opa.co/3EeHRvj

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What are sleep retreats? A sleep scientist explains the latest wellness trend

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jason Ellis, Professor of Sleep Science, Northumbria University, Newcastle

    Considering the effect of poor sleep on the individual as well as on society and the economy, it is hardly surprising sleep has become an intense area of research focus in recent years. Most recently we have seen an increase in the offering of and appetite for so-called sleep retreats. But what are sleep retreats and are they helpful?

    As with any specialised retreat, there is no set formula for what a sleep retreat should focus on. As such, the range of what is available is incredibly variable, from retreats that just focus on a sleep-friendly environment (a cool, dark, quiet and comfortable bedroom in a luxurious location) to ones specifically aimed at managing a specific sleep disorder, using evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia.

    There are even ones that provide, among other things, a regimen of vitamins and minerals delivered intravenously. Most, however, fall somewhere between focusing on meditation, exercise and relaxation.

    Although there is good evidence that exercise, at the right intensity and duration, can be beneficial for sleep, it is unlikely that a lack of exercise alone causes poor sleep.

    Similarly, there is some, albeit poor quality, evidence that meditation and relaxation improve sleep quality. As such, it is unlikely that these treatments alone will fix a sleep problem.

    The main challenge is that sleep, as with diet or exercise, is just an overarching term for a complex behaviour, one that is influenced and can influence almost every area of a person’s life. For example, I am hearing a lot about supplementing with magnesium to aid sleep, but this is only likely to be beneficial if you are deficient in the first place.

    What to consider before you splash the cash

    So, should we approach the sleep retreat with caution? Not necessarily, it is more a case of doing your homework.

    First, who does the sleep retreat cater for, and what do you hope to get from the retreat? The busy executive who only allows themselves four hours of sleep a night will have very different expectations and experiences to a person who has undiagnosed sleep apnoea and sleeps for nine hours but wants to know why they are so sleepy during the day.

    This leads to the second consideration: what kind of pre-screening (for conditions that might be causing insomnia) and personalisation do they offer?

    Many retreats advertise an individual consultation as part of the package but don’t really say what that will cover (a sleep, medical and psychiatric history and lifestyle assessment should be done as a bare minimum. This is vital when we consider that while well-established, evidence-based treatments for a variety of sleep disturbances and disorders exist, they are not suitable for everyone.

    Also, there is a perception that non-pharmacological therapies, including nutraceuticals (products derived from food sources that said to have health benefits) and over-the-counter remedies (such as antihistamines, melatonin and valerian), don’t have side-effects, which is not necessarily the case.

    The final considerations are: who is delivering the retreat? And is what they are offering based on sound scientific evidence?

    Considering certification in sleep medicine is a hot topic in the sleep community at the moment, it is worth doing some research. For example, in the UK there is no pathway to becoming a sleep medicine specialist, consultant or coach. So who is leading the sleep retreat and is what they offering evidence-based?

    Jason Ellis has consulted to Kayak on Sleep Tourism.

    – ref. What are sleep retreats? A sleep scientist explains the latest wellness trend – https://theconversation.com/what-are-sleep-retreats-a-sleep-scientist-explains-the-latest-wellness-trend-247632

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: You don’t have to be a net zero hero – how focus on personal climate action can distract from systemic problems

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sam Illingworth, Professor of Creative Pedagogies, Edinburgh Napier University

    Tint Media/Shutterstock

    Campaigns and social media often encourage people to make eco-friendly choices like using less plastic or driving less. While these actions are important, focusing so much on what people do can distract from the much larger role that businesses and governments play in causing and solving environmental problems.

    For example, some campaigns promote a “net zero hero” narrative that implies that people should take the lead in fighting climate change by changing their behaviour, recycling more, taking fewer flights or eating less meat.

    While personal actions can help, there’s a danger this way of thinking can put too much responsibility on consumers. These individual actions are not enough to solve the problem.

    By focusing so much on personal responsibility, we risk ignoring the systemic changes needed to address the climate crisis. These include switching to renewable energy on a large scale, enforcing strict industrial regulations and redesigning cities to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

    Without these bigger steps, taken by governments and large organisations, we can’t make real progress in tackling climate change.



    Read more:
    Quick climate dictionary: what actually is a carbon footprint?

    Energy companies and trade groups have been particularly good at shifting blame to consumers. They promote products and habits that claim to lower personal carbon footprints while lobbying against strong environmental laws that would require real emission cuts from industries.

    Fossil fuel companies have known about climate change science since the 1950s but funded misinformation campaigns to delay action and shift blame to individuals.

    Indeed, the carbon footprint calculator itself was developed in 2004 by a public relations firm working for BP. The tool encouraged individuals to calculate their personal impact on the environment, focusing on activities like driving, energy use, and diet.

    According to reports on the campaign’s origins, this approach was part of a deliberate strategy to shift public attention away from the significant environmental harm caused by corporations, particularly the fossil fuel industry.

    Despite this narrative, many corporations have failed to address their own emissions. A recent study found that only 60% of companies met their 2020 emissions targets, and 31% failed to report any outcomes.

    This lack of accountability highlights how many major companies neglect their responsibilities, raising serious concerns about their commitment to 2030 climate goals.

    These tactics maintain the status quo and creates a cycle of guilt and failure for consumers. Many people feel overwhelmed, leading to demotivation and even climate anxiety.

    Similar strategies have been used in other industries. For instance, the tobacco industry blamed smokers for health issues, focusing on personal choice while downplaying nicotine addiction and resisting health regulations.

    The real meaning of a carbon footprint.

    Shifting the focus

    In my research into climate communication, I see how stories of guilt resonate with communities already facing misplaced blame. For example, in workshops with groups affected by austerity, people often felt guilty for not helping others more.

    Over time, they realised this was due to failures in governance, not personal shortcomings. They saw a similar pattern in the climate crisis, learning to separate personal guilt from the larger roles of corporations and governments.

    Collective action will drive systemic change.
    John Gomez/Shutterstock

    As a climate researcher and communicator, my job is to help move the conversation from personal guilt to shared responsibility and accountability. This shift empowers people as citizens, not just consumers, to demand action from leaders and industries.

    Understanding that while personal responsibility is meaningful, the real power to create change lies with corporations and governments is vital. We need systemic change, not consumer guilt.

    To tackle the climate crisis, we must make personal choices that reflect care for the environment. But we must also work together to demand that companies and governments adopt sustainable practices, for example through voting for leaders who prioritise environmental reform. The path to a sustainable future is collective action – not carrying the weight of guilt alone.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. You don’t have to be a net zero hero – how focus on personal climate action can distract from systemic problems – https://theconversation.com/you-dont-have-to-be-a-net-zero-hero-how-focus-on-personal-climate-action-can-distract-from-systemic-problems-248073

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Patrick Doyle’s five best film scores – including his pick of an undiscovered gem

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Scott, Head of Division, School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland

    Scottish musician Patrick Doyle is an acclaimed composer of over 60 feature film scores with many attendant accolades, honours and awards. I first met him in 2001 while making a now long-vanished series on movie music called Silverscreen Beats for BBC Radio.

    I visited him at his office on the Shepperton lot in Surrey. There, I watched, enchanted, as he flitted between desk and piano bringing his creativity to life with his incredible musicality and riotous humour illustrating scores like Carlito’s Way (1993), Sense and Sensibility (1995) and Gosford Park (2001).

    So years later, when the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) presented Doyle with an honorary doctorate, I wasted no time in asking him to visit and talk to our students. The film of that event is finally available online and is a treat for all fans of film music.

    I could pick 20 favourite Patrick Doyle soundtracks for this “best of” list. In the end, I selected these four and asked him to pick a fifth.

    1. Henry V (1989)

    Back in 2001, Doyle told me he loves to get the opportunity to compose a song for a movie soundtrack. Henry V, his first full-length feature score, includes one of the greatest examples, Non-Nobis Domine, sung after the key battle scene of Kenneth Branagh’s 1989 film.

    It builds from a plain opening verse, sung in the film by young Doyle himself who remembers, with a humorous twinkle, trying to sing it slightly “off key” to enhance its authenticity.

    Non-Nobis Domine in Henry V.

    From that simple introduction, the composer gradually adds choral, orchestral and complex harmonic elements, skilfully balancing the elation and darkness of triumph. And for all its harmonic counterpoint and rich orchestration, he never lets you forget that lonely central melody, doubling it down the octave on bowed double basses as it reaches the climax.

    The soundtrack recording, conducted by Simon Rattle with the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, is a thing of wonder. But to truly understand the perfect marriage of story and music – even if orchestras and choirs did not typically boom across 15th-century battlefields – experience Non-Nobis Domine in the original movie.

    2. Brave (2012)

    The Scottish tradition is never far from Patrick’s music. Indeed, O! For a Muse of Fire, the opening theme from Henry V, uses a recognisably Scottish sound, two notes played quickly across a five note interval, as a key motif, expanding this in a melodic phrase that recalls the cries of seagulls.

    In Disney Pixar’s Brave (2012), Doyle brings an authentic voice to the imaginary Scotland of its central character, the indefatigable Merida. Her defiant exuberance is mirrored in the rhythm of pieces like The Games and Remember to Smile where the composer uses a traditional hand-held drum (the bodhran), bagpipes and fiddles, with the harmony instruments often playing in tight unison to rousing effect.

    Remember to Smile from the Brave score.

    If a key role of the movie soundtrack is to extend narrative or visual language, the effect wrought here is almost physical – to the extent that my own embarrassed grandchildren have had to restrain me from dancing on the couch during screenings of Brave.

    Elsewhere though, the slow mystery of a beautifully animated landscape is matched by atmospheric, languid passages that call on deep reserves of the tradition and its melancholy.

    3. Sense and Sensibility (1995)

    Patrick’s Catholic upbringing is another constant presence in his music. He was greatly influenced by the beautiful Irish melodic hymns which were imported to the west of Scotland. His soundtrack for Ang Lee’s Sense and Sensibility was nominated for a raft of music awards including the Baftas, the Oscars and Golden Globes.

    It has marvellous passages of yearning and almost devotional melody and harmony, but I include it selfishly for the hymnal Weep No More You Sad Fountains alone. It’s one of my very favourite melodies, and one I was privileged to hear him play at close quarters at UWS.

    The Dreame from Sense and Sensibility.

    This majestic piece can be heard on the original soundtrack, sung by English soprano Jane Eaglen, on Patrick’s 2015 album of solo piano pieces and, of course, during my interview with him. Perhaps less well known from the same film is The Dreame, another devotional piece, again sung by Eaglen and set to a Ben Johnson poem. Complex in conception and virtuosic in execution, the piece is nevertheless understated, underplayed, and more devastating for it.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    4. Carlito’s Way (1993)

    Doyle’s hilarious and hugely affectionate account of working with one of cinema’s greats, the director Brian DePalma, is a highlight of the conversation I had with him at UWS. His insights range from the creation of the music, the larger-than-life DePalma himself and descriptions of giant cranes chucking down fake rain onto a Biblical-scale location shoot in New York.

    The music created for Carlito’s Way, DePalma’s crime classic starring Al Pacino, is dramatic and rangy, with passages of glacial orchestrated strings – the title theme is a highlight – sitting alongside solo piano, small jazz ensemble and interesting sonic juxtapositions.

    The Elevator from Carlitto’s Way.

    One piece, The Elevator, combines marimba, piano and plucked strings in unison against guiro and woodblocks. It establishes a theme that builds intensely, adding different instrumental colour towards the famous climax in Grand Central Station in New York. It is recognisably “movie music”, but tells its own melodic story.

    5. Doyle’s choice – Indochine (1993)

    When I asked Patrick to choose an “undiscovered gem for a new generation”, he quickly picked Indochine, the 1993 drama starring Catherine Deneuve. The movie won the Oscar for best foreign film in that year and the music is classic Doyle, melodic, rich in harmony and grand enough in orchestral scale to match the sumptuous visual language of the film.

    Premier Rendez-Vous from Indochine.

    That devotional, romantic sound is in full flow too. Pieces like Premier Rendez-Vous and Journey’s End are almost heady in conception and execution. Among the most distinctive themes in this hugely expansive work are also among the most distinctive pieces in Doyle’s own canon: two sure-footed tango and rumba pieces and the title theme itself with its unusual and atmospheric combination of ethereal wordless vocal, eastern bass drum, gong and finger bells. Essential.

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

    – ref. Patrick Doyle’s five best film scores – including his pick of an undiscovered gem – https://theconversation.com/patrick-doyles-five-best-film-scores-including-his-pick-of-an-undiscovered-gem-247132

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump pulls out of WHO and Paris – how did international bodies get through deglobalisation last time around?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Perri 6, Emeritus Professor of Public Management, Queen Mary University of London

    Donald Trump has ordered the US to leave the World Health Organization. Skorzewiak / Shutterstock

    Following Donald Trump’s return to the White House, much attention has been given to his plans for tariffs on imported goods, deportations of illegal migrants, and cuts to federal government spending. Fewer column inches have addressed the implications of his presidency for global regulatory bodies.

    Just as he did during his first term, Trump has announced the withdrawal of the US from the World Health Organization (WHO) and from the Paris climate accords.

    And because his tariffs programme will challenge World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, Trump is likely to continue the US policy of stymieing the WTO’s appellate body, which adjudicates on trade disputes between states. US withdrawals from other international regulatory bodies are also possible.

    Each of the bodies from which Trump withdrew last time around survived. However, threats to global regulatory bodies today could be greater than they were during Trump’s first term.

    In the US and beyond, deglobalisation has so far been evident only in state policies, and not in trade flows. China, for example, has set up and now dominates several regional investment and trade organisations to provide alternatives to the International Monetary Fund and World Bank.

    However, tariff retaliation and bloc-based regulatory standards could soon turn “slowbalisation” – a trend whereby political support for open trade has gradually weakened and the rate of growth in world trade has slowed – into trade deglobalisation.

    We have been here before. The 1930s were characterised by high tariffs, breakup of trade into blocs, and withdrawals and expulsions of major powers from global bodies. In the 1940s, which saw the breakout of the second world war, trade was conducted almost exclusively among allies.

    Yet almost all international regulatory bodies survived during this period, albeit they were bruised and were able to achieve less as a result.

    Our study, which was published in 2021, distinguished pathways through which three distinct groups of global regulatory bodies either survived or else handed over their archives, networks and organisational capacity to their UN-era successors.

    Preserving rule sets

    One inter-war group of industry-specific global regulators oversaw capital-intensive and infrastructure-heavy international industries such as telecommunications and railways. This group included the International Telecommunications Union and a modest alphabet soup of closely cooperating railway bodies.

    In these fields, interconnection depended on common but frequently updated and adjusted rule sets for technology, accounting and routing management. They also required continuous statistical collections by international bureaus.

    Unable to agree major regulatory innovation after the global economic crisis began in 1931, these bodies reduced their focus to managing and maintaining their existing rule sets and information services.

    On the outbreak of war in Europe, their bureaus went into a phase of severely reduced activity, with many of their activities suspended. However, they continued to collect and publish statistics, maintained their networks within member states, and developed ambitious plans for peacetime.

    The International Telecommunications Union and the railway authorities resumed operations shortly after the end of hostilities with their rule sets intact.

    Individual brokering work

    A second cluster were generic bodies, responsible for the oversight of labour relations and aspects of capital flows. These are faster-moving fields than infrastructure-heavy industries. These bodies included the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Economic and Financial Organisation of the League of Nations (EFO).

    They provided expertise for negotiating agreements on particular problems. In the case of the ILO, this included conventions on working time, women’s working conditions, and forced labour. The EFO brokered financial support with strict conditions for Austria and Hungary, then new and struggling states which faced acute financial crises in the early 1920s.

    These organisations faced increasing difficulties during the deglobalisation of the 1930s. But they continued to provide bilaterally negotiated support for many countries. The ILO, for example, provided technical assistance to some south American governments on the design of social insurance schemes, while the EFO’s financial committee worked with central banks.

    Survival or bequest was secured by the brokering work of key individual leaders who were able to exploit fluid networks among states, firms and unions in global labour and capital debates.

    The EFO secured the transfer of key staff, networks and traditions to post-war bodies including the UN Economic and Social Council and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. And the ILO’s director-general, Edward Phelan, was crucial in negotiating with the US to relaunch the organisation with a new programme for the post-war era.

    New international clubs

    A third group of regulatory bodies was created precisely in response to the 1930s global economic crisis. These were international commodity unions for goods such as tin, rubber, tea and sugar.

    Most were publicly run cartels, often backed by the imperial blocs that dominated the fragmenting world trade system. Like many cartels, their cohesion was fragile. But many of those that were successfully established managed to survive the 1930s and the war that followed.

    Their survival depended less on the formal administrative organisation of the infrastructure bodies or the individual brokering work that sustained the capital and labour bodies. It was dependent more on their ability to draw upon club-like collective bonds both among major producing and exporting firms and among officials across key producer states and imperial authorities.

    Within the tightly bonded International Tin Committee, for example, a succession of agreements on prices, quotas and voting rights were settled. Despite initial US reluctance to see these international commodity unions continue into peacetime, President Harry Truman was persuaded of their temporary value for economic order during reconstruction.

    Some even continued until the 1970s, when they collapsed in that decade’s global economic turmoil. Freer markets then superseded intergovernmental cartels.

    Trump’s policies, as well as those of China, Russia and other major powers, may again endanger the roles of global regulatory bodies. But some will survive by focusing on the routine maintenance services provided by their bureaus, and some will empower individual leaders to negotiate their way to reinvention and survival.

    Others will pass their capacity to new agencies when deglobalisation eventually abates. And some new international bodies may emerge in response to conditions in industries most adversely affected by the changing terms of trade.

    Our work has led us to conclude that which strategy is chosen depends on two things. First, on the features of the field being regulated. And second on the informal social organisation within the international bodies and member states, which shapes how people can act and the skills they can sustain.

    It remains to be seen how informal social organisation in the WHO and climate treaty system will now evolve after US withdrawal.

    Eva Heims has received funding from the ESRC.

    Martha Prevezer and Perri 6 do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump pulls out of WHO and Paris – how did international bodies get through deglobalisation last time around? – https://theconversation.com/trump-pulls-out-of-who-and-paris-how-did-international-bodies-get-through-deglobalisation-last-time-around-247919

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Press Briefing by the White House Press Secretary

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    The White House

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJOgsQQYDY4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to new AI Chatbot DeepSeek

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on DeepSeek, a new AI Chatbot. 

    Prof Neil Lawrence, DeepMind Professor of Machine Learning at Department of Computer Science and Technology, University of Cambridge, said:

    “I think the progress is unsurprising, and I think it’s just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the type of innovation we can expect in these models. History shows that big firms struggle to innovate as they scale, and what we’ve seen from many of these big firms is a substitution of compute investment for the intellectual hard work. I’ve been suggesting that this has made the conditions ideal for a “Dreadnaught moment” where current technology is rapidly rendered redundant by new thinking. I don’t think DeepSeek is it, because the innovations deployed are relatively incremental, but it shows that we’re still in the age of the Newcomen engine, there’s plenty of space for budding James Watts to emerge, and that they are less likely to come from established players.”

    Comment provided by the SMC pilot for Ireland:

    Dr Deepak Padmanabhan, Senior Lecturer, School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queen’s University Belfast, said:

    “DeepSeek is causing massive disruption in financial markets. Mainstream narratives contrast the technology with ChatGPT and illustrate the differences in technological aspects. The far more long-reaching effect it would have would not be technological, it would be political, for it could disrupt the paradigms entrenched in the tech industry in substantive ways. There could be several aspects:

    “Open-Source Software: DeepSeek’s code to train AI models is open source. This means that anybody can download the code and use it to develop their own AI. This is a significant step towards democratisation of AI. The open-source availability of code for an AI that competes well with contemporary commercial models is a significant change. Yet, if one is to download and run the code to develop their own AI, they would still need to have access to large datasets and tremendous computational power – but this is nevertheless a massive step forward.

    “Computational Power: AI has been noted to pose massive computational requirements over the past decade leading to corporate dominance in AI research [ https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ade2420 ]. With massive compute requirements yielding well to monopolisation of the space, big tech, and the government funding landscape (that are in turn influenced by big tech) have shown limited interests in prioritising AI research towards reducing computational requirements. DeepSeek’s models have been noted to require far lesser computational requirements than today’s commercial models. This could potentially ignite new interest in reducing computational requirements for future AI, with positive effects towards environment.

    “No plans for Commercialisation: It has been highlighted that DeepSeek has no plans for commercialisation [ https://www.chinatalk.media/p/deepseek-ceo-interview-with-chinas ]. This makes it a very interesting development in that this marks a moment when a player with qualitatively different ideas enters a commercially-dominated space. This is a change against the prevailing trends – OpenAI was noted as moving to a full commercial model (from a partly non-profit model) in recent times. It may be interesting how commercial players respond to this challenge.

    “In other words, the entry of DeepSeek could potentially hasten a paradigm shift in AI and pose a real challenge to commercial dominance in the sector. It may be a little too far to see this as a pathway towards taking AI into public hands, but that’s the direction of travel that DeepSeek brings to the table.

    “Cheaper AI, Pervasive AI: One of the potential first effects would be cheaper consumer AI, and a fall in the profit margins within the tech sector. But it could also accelerate disruption by making AI pervasive, bringing more sectors and more jobs under threat.

    “Cautious Optimism: It may be tempting to hope that open-source AI would lead to effects similar to what was seen in the 1990s when the dominance of Microsoft’s windows was challenged very well by open-source Linux. Yet, AI is not just software and computational resources – there is data too. So, there are further hurdles to overcome. We could view this development with optimism, but we must be cautious. For example, the ethos of the open-source movement was diluted with corporate players substantively entering the system leading to what has been called a ‘Corporate dominance in Open Source Ecosystems’ [ https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3540250.3549117 ]. To develop, sustain and strengthen open-source ethos within AI would require many more developments in the same direction as DeepSeek.”

    Declared interests

    Prof Neil Lawrence: No conflicts.

    Dr Padmanabhan: None

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Budget agreements secured

    Source: Scottish Government

    New funding for bus fares, drug services and free school meals.

    Agreements have been reached separately with the Scottish Liberal Democrats and Scottish Green Party to support the 2025-26 Budget.

    Finance Secretary Shona Robison has announced she will table amendments to the 2025-26 Budget Bill to allocate £16.7 million funding to:
    • Bolster drug and alcohol services, including £1 million for specialist support for babies born addicted to drugs
    • Begin a £2 bus fare cap pilot in one regional transport area
    • Further strengthen support for hospices from £4 million to £5 million
    • Increase Nature Restoration by £3 million to its highest ever level
    • Invest in targeted support for the College sector and protect Corseford College
    • Extend free school meal eligibility in S1-S3 in eight local authority areas for pupils in receipt of Scottish Child Payment
    • Offer flexibility for Orkney Island Council in terms of capital and resource funding

    Ms Robison said:

    “We are determined to deliver on the issues that matter most to the people of Scotland – and that is why this Budget invests in public services and in eradicating child poverty, acts in the face of the climate emergency, and supports jobs.

    “The First Minister was clear that we would bring forward a budget by Scotland for Scotland, and the negotiations we have taken forward have been in that spirit. These additional initiatives demonstrate the value of a progressive approach and dialogue.

    “During every stage of this process the Liberal Democrats and the Greens have engaged in our discussions in a positive and constructive manner.

    “Through seeking compromise I believe we are delivering a budget that will strengthen services and support our communities. With the agreements with these two parties now in place this will secure a majority in parliament in support of the Budget Bill.”

    Background

    Finance Secretary letter to Finance and Public Administration Committee

    Budget (Scotland) Bill

    The new initiatives will be funded through reallocation of funding for debt servicing in 2025-26, given that debt servicing costs will be lower than expected when the draft Budget was published; and an additional drawdown of £3 million from revenues raised from Scotwind, to support nature restoration.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Money available to businesses to display support for Spectra

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Aberdeen City Council is offering a one-time grant of £500 to individual local businesses that want to show their support for Spectra – Scotland’s Festival of Light – when it returns to the city next week.

    Spectra, runs from Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 February and will see Aberdeen city centre filled with artwork, light installations, projections and thousands of visitors.

    The Council is interested in hearing from businesses on how they might ‘Spectra-fy’ their business but also how, they could incorporate light-based displays, decorations and adornments to their premises for the duration of the festival.

    Councillor Martin Greig, culture spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council, said: “Our one-off grants to local businesses are intended to make the city and the city centre even more vibrant during the period of the Spectra displays. This has become a very popular annual event and we want the business community to benefit as much as possible from the increased footfall.

    “Last year there were over 100,000 visitors to the festival over the four days. Businesses are invited to consider how they can use the Council’s special grant scheme to take advantage of the increased footfall, for example, they could apply to extend opening hours or find other ways of attracting customers. It will be a splendid celebration hence it is important to take the interests of traders into account.”

    Applicants are advised to read the Application Guidance in full. Any questions should be emailed to the project team at BusinessSupport@aberdeencity.gov.uk

    The application form can be found here.

    Applications will be accepted until 28 February 2025 or until such time as funding has been fully allocated. Retrospective bids will be considered providing they are able to provide evidence that money spent was explicitly tied to the Spectra festival.

    All complete applications received will be assessed and verified against the eligibility criteria by Aberdeen City Council. Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.

    Successful applicants will be informed by offer letter. All decisions will be made at the discretion of Aberdeen City Council and are subject to the availability of funds.

    This scheme has been funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

    For more information on Spectra 2025 and to sign up for the latest news and offers go to www.spectraaberdeen.com

    Information about grants available to businesses to host and support other events in the city is available here. 

    ENESS – Sky Castle – a dreamy, interactive sound and light installation, featuring a cluster of inflatable arches that span in colourful symphony across public space.  It will be located in Union Terrace Gardens during Spectra 2025. Image by Gavin Jowitt photography. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Government proposes measures to ensure that more people with removal orders leave the country

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Government proposes measures to ensure that more people with removal orders leave the country – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry of Justice

    Published

    The Government has adopted a bill that aims to ensure that more people who have been issued with removal orders return to their country of origin.

    The Government wants to streamline returns and reduce incentives for aliens issued with removal orders to remain in Sweden. The bill therefore includes the following proposals:

    • that a removal order should apply for five years from the date an alien leaves the country, or longer if a re-entry ban is in force;
    • the option of issuing longer re-entry bans than is currently possible if an alien has not left the country when the deadline for voluntary departure has expired.

    In the bill, the Government also proposes that the possibility of applying for a residence permit for work from within the country following a failed asylum application – sometimes referred to as ‘changing track’ – be eliminated.

    “Today, around one in four asylum seekers have already had their cases examined. Ensuring that people who receive expulsion orders also leave the country is fundamental to maintaining confidence in our migration system. These proposals reduce incentives to stay in Sweden once an expulsion order has been issued,” says Minister for Migration Johan Forssell.

    “Sweden has had lax rules on returns for decades and this is an important step towards changing that. ‘Changing track’, which has undermined regulated immigration, will be abolished. The regulation whereby expulsion orders become statute-barred after just four years will be removed and replaced with a regulation that will force more people to return home,” says Ludvig Aspling, migration policy spokesperson for the Sweden Democrats.

    It is proposed that the legislative amendments enter into force on 1 April 2025.

    Press contact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Radio 1 Big Weekend is coming to Liverpool!

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Radio 1 Breakfast Show, Greg James has revealed that superstar Sam Fender will be headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 which will be held in Liverpool from Friday 23 May – Sunday 25 May. Myles Smith, Wet Leg, Blossoms and Lola Young (following her debut UK #1 with ‘Messy’ as announced on Radio 1’s Official Chart last Friday) were also announced as the first acts set to perform.

    Over the course of the weekend, around 100 acts will take to the stage, from the biggest artists in the world to exciting new and emerging artists, performing across four stages: Radio 1 Main Stage, Radio 1 New Music Stage, Radio 1 Dance and BBC Introducing. With over 100,000 music fans expected to attend, the event promises to be an unforgettable music spectacular.

    The first artists to be announced are (in alphabetical order):

    • Blossoms
    • Lola Young
    • Myles Smith
    • Sam Fender
    • Wet Leg

    Radio 1’s Big Weekend, the station’s flagship live music event, kicks off the UK’s festival season by bringing some of the biggest UK and international artists to cities that may not otherwise host such a large scale event. From Taylor Swift in Norwich, Miley Cyrus in Middlesbrough, Stormzy in Exeter, Lana Del Rey in Hull, Ed Sheeran in Coventry, Bruno Mars in Derry/Londonderry, The 1975 in Dundee, and Sabrina Carpenter in Luton, music fans around the UK have seen superstar acts perform on their doorsteps. The festival shines a light on the surrounding area and provides a major boost to the local economy, with huge demand for tickets ensuring the event sells out almost immediately every year. Last year’s festival generated £7 million for the host city of Luton.

    This year, the BBC is working closely with Liverpool City Council to ensure that Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 is a safe and secure environment for all those attending the festival.

    Sam Fender says: “Excited to announce we’re coming to Liverpool for Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May. Thanks for inviting us – see you there!”

    Myles Smith says: “This is unreal. Big Weekend was always a dream of mine, and to be on the line-up again is insane. Thank you to everyone who’s been listening, supporting, and coming to shows. I couldn’t have done this without you. See you there!”

    Blossoms say: “We’re delighted that Radio 1 have invited us to play at this year’s Big Weekend. Even more so because it’s taking place in Liverpool, a city close to our hearts, where we’ve worked and recorded every single one of our albums since our debut in 2016. It’s going to be a really special weekend and we can’t wait to perform.”

    Lola Young says: “I can’t wait to play Radio 1’s Big Weekend. It’s going to get Messy! Me + the Liverpool crowd = One Big Weekend… see what I did there!!”

    Greg James says: “FINALLY…Radio 1 HAS COME BACK…to Liv…er…pooool!

    “The last time I was there I was doing a big game of Hide and Seek and was hidden in the Liver building for a week so it’ll be nice to see some daylight and enjoy it properly this time. We can’t wait to bring the biggest artists in the world to this brilliant city in May. Everyone’s going to LOVE the line-up!”

    Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, says: “We’re thrilled to bring Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 to Liverpool. Liverpool’s vibrant music scene and rich history make it the perfect setting for this iconic event. With incredible artists already announced and more to be announced in the coming months, it’s set to be an unmissable weekend.”

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, says: “Radio 1’s Big Weekend has found the perfect home this year in Liverpool. Our music, our audiences and our history of delivering world class major events add up to what is certain to be an incredible three days this May.”

    Further information about Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025, including headliners and full line-up and ticketing details will be announced on Radio 1 in the coming months.

    BBC Radio 1 will broadcast live from the festival site across the weekend, with performances and tracks available live and on demand across Radio 1’s iPlayer channel and BBC Sounds.

    Radio 1 and Liverpool City Council will be working together to try and make this the most sustainable outdoor live music event ever produced in the city in line with the BBC’s Sustainability programme and Liverpool’s status as the first UN Accelerator City for climate action. For more information about Liverpool please head to the Visit Liverpool website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council motion supports extension to lifespan of power stations Lancaster City Council has welcomed the recent decision to extend the operating lifespan of Heysham’s two nuclear power stations.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Lancaster City Council has welcomed the recent decision to extend the operating lifespan of Heysham’s two nuclear power stations.

    Heysham One

    At a recent meeting of Full Council, the following motion was passed:

    This Council welcomes last month’s announcement that following a detailed technical review of the power stations, EDF’s licensee board has decided to extend generation dates for Heysham 1 by one year to 2027 and Heysham 2 by two years to 2030.

    This decision is great news for Heysham and the wider local community. The power stations are a provider of high skill, high wage jobs, and the extension of the generating life of the power stations secures employment for more than 1,500 staff and contractors. The power stations are anchor institutions, with supply chains and spending power boosting the local economy. They are also a major source of business rate revenue for the Council, whose significant contributions help secure a higher standard of local services and protect more Council jobs than would otherwise be possible.

    This decision is also excellent news nationally. Extending the generating lives of the Heysham stations will bolster the UK’s security of supply and support plans for the rapid expansion of renewables by helping to maintain grid stability. Nuclear power is a low carbon source of energy, and a key element of the Government’s strategy to provide clean power by 2030.   Ensuring the baseload with nuclear power also helps limit the UK’s dependence on imported gas, a regrettable situation which has caused an energy crisis and led to inflated household bills.

    Council has confidence in the safety considerations underpinning this decision. We note that ongoing generation from the stations will ultimately depend not on decisions by EDF, but on the outcome of future inspections, the results of which are reviewed by the independent regulator, the Office for Nuclear Regulation.  

    Looking to the future, Council notes that Heysham is a location earmarked by the Government for the potential siting of one or more Small Modular Reactors (SMR), that EDF is an approved development partner for these new technologies, and that the first reactors of this type are intended to be delivered by 2029. Council supports bringing ‘New Nuclear’ to Heysham and welcomes the continuation of the benefits this would bring to both our residents and the rest of the UK.

    Council resolves that:

    1. The Chief Executive will write to the Secretary” of State for Energy and Climate Change, Cat Smith MP and Lizzi Collinge MP, welcoming the generating life extensions to Heysham 1 & 2, and conveying our support for bringing New Nuclear to Heysham and a timeline for this project to achieve, so we can plan for the future engineers and the stability of the Council.
       
    2. That we publicise these views via our various communications channels.
       
    3. That a full response to any consultation on New Nuclear is prepared on behalf of the Council by Business Committee at the appropriate time.

    Last updated: 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on Vintage by the Sea 2025 Following Friday’s announcement regarding Vintage by the Sea 2025, Lancaster City Council has released the following statement.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Following Friday’s announcement regarding Vintage by the Sea 2025, Lancaster City Council has released the following statement.

    Councillor Caroline Jackson, leader of Lancaster City Council, said: “We are all deeply saddened by the announcement about Vintage by the Sea and know this was not an easy decision for the organisers, who have put so much into the event over the years to make it a success.

    “From a city council perspective we were once again looking forward to supporting the festival, but we are just one of the festival’s funders and recognise that the landscape is tough and other organisations may have had to alter their priorities due to the current state of the economy.

    “Although it is disappointing that the event will not take place in 2025, the door is still open for the future and the council will provide both Deco Publique and Hemingway Design with every encouragement and help they need to return in the future.

    “We are also looking forward to working with Deco on other projects separate from Vintage by the Sea and together we are exploring a number of exciting opportunities.

    “The council also remains committed to supporting other festival and event organisers and only recently agreed to fund Baylight to the tune of £15,000 in direct funding as well as ‘in-kind’ support equal to £15,000, which will cover costs associated with public safety such as road closure and barriers.

    “Without this support the event may not have taken place in 2025 and is an example of how the city council is supporting the arts and events sector.”

    Last updated: 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: The capital’s emergency response system is constantly being improved

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The capital’s emergency response system is constantly being improved. This was reported in its telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin reported.

    “This allows us to reduce the number of fires and accidents on water and the number of victims every year,” the Mayor of Moscow wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin 

    The city is introducing new methods of interaction, mastering samples of modern technology, and developing the infrastructure of the fire and rescue garrison. big job for personnel training. In addition, a unique joint mobile group, which included specialists from engineering and municipal enterprises of the city economy.

    “The Moscow city system for preventing and eliminating emergency situations is capable of resolving issues of national importance. In particular, the capital’s specialists are restoring the infrastructure of Lugansk and Donetsk, and were among the first to come to the aid of residents of the Kursk region,” noted Sergei Sobyanin.

    Every day, more than 1,400 firefighters and rescuers are on duty, armed with about 700 units of equipment.

    In 2024, the capital purchased 132 units of modern equipment to equip fire and rescue units. Among them are airboats, fire trucks-bases of the gas and smoke protection service, aerial ladders, fire trucks, command vehicles, and an all-terrain vehicle. The new equipment will help ensure the safety of the multi-million city even better.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12322050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Angus Gold Extends New High-Gold Zone at Dorset West, Intersects 3.2 g/t Au over 13.7 metres including 16.2 g/t Au over 2.0 metres, Golden Sky Project, Wawa

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Angus Gold Inc. (TSX-V: GUS | OTC: ANGVF) (“Angus” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce assay results from eleven (11) exploration holes that were completed on the Dorset Zone as part of its 2024 Fall drilling program at the Golden Sky Project in Wawa, Ontario. The new high-grade gold zone on Dorset’s west end, where Angus previously intersected 7.0 g/t Au over 12.4 metres in Hole GS-24-136, approximately 500 metres to the west of the historical Dorset resource (see News Release of May 7, 2024), is now defined over 100 metres of strike length. In addition, with these drilling results, the Dorset Gold Zone has now been intersected along 2 kilometres of strike length.

    Highlights:

    • High-Grade Dorset West gold mineralization is now defined over 100m of strike length:
      • 13.7 metres of mineralization grading 3.2 g/t Au, including 2.0 metres of 16.2 g/t Au in Hole GS24-171;
      • 8.0 metres of mineralization grading 1.6 g/t Au, including 2.9 metres of 3.9 g/t Au in Hole GS24-172;
      • 2.1 metres of mineralization grading 5.3 g/t Au, in Hole GS24-173;
      • 9.1 metres of mineralization grading 4.3 g/t Au, including 3.7 metres of 7.2 g/t Au in Hole GS24-179
    • Dorset Gold Trend now defined for 2 kilometres of strike length of continuous mineralization.
    • 15,000 metres of drilling planned for the Golden Sky Project in 2025.
    • Fully funded 2025 exploration budget.

    Breanne Beh, Chief Executive Officer of Angus, states: “We are extremely pleased with the continued delivery of step-out results from our new high-grade Dorset West Zone. We have now defined this new zone over 100m of strike-length and are excited to be returning to the area to begin our 2025 drilling campaign, announced on January 14, 2025. The Dorset Gold Trend has grown from 750 metres of strike length to 2 kilometres since Angus acquired the project in 2020. We continue to be encouraged with the consistency of the mineralization and look forward to expanding the zone as we continue to explore the entirety of the 7.0 kilometres of potential strike length of the shear zone that hosts the Dorset Deposit.”

    The goal of the Dorset West fall drill program was to complete step-out holes to the east and west of the high-grade intercept of 7.0 g/t Au over 12.4 metres in Hole GS-24-136. Eleven (11) holes were completed, eight (8) of which returned gold intersections and three (3) of which hosted visible gold. The most notable intercepts were in GS-24-171 and GS-24-179. GS-24-171, a 50-metre step-out to the west of GS-24-136, returned 13.7 metres grading 3.2 g/t Au including 2.0 metres of 16.2 g/t Au. GS-24-179, a 75m step-out west of GS-24-136, returned 9.1 metres grading 4.3 g/t Au including 3.7 metres grading 7.2 g/t Au.   The gold mineralization in both of these holes was hosted in quartz veins within a metasedimentary rock package, the same geologic setting as the mineralization in GS-24-136. These results begin to show consistency in this new high-grade zone that is completely open to the west with minimal historic drilling completed along the structural corridor for 2 kilometres.

    Selected drill results from the 11 holes at the Golden Sky drilling program are, as follows:  

    Hole Number From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au g/t Area
    GS-24-171 121.9 122.7 0.8 2.2 Dorset West
    GS-24-171 209.2 222.9 13.7 3.2
    including 220.9 222.9 2.0 16.2
    GS-24-171 252.7 255.0 2.3 1.7
    GS-24-172 86.1 90.1 4.0 1.1 Dorset West
    including 87.10 87.60 0.5 2.3
    GS-24-172 244.0 252.0 8.0 1.6
    including 247.7 250.6 2.9 3.9
    GS-24-173 221.9 224.0 2.1 5.3 Dorset West
    GS-24-176 187.7 188.6 0.9 5.3 Dorset West
    GS-24-176 200.5 201.5 1.0 8.2
    GS-24-179 105.9 106.4 0.5 2.2 Dorset West
    GS-24-179 204.0 213.1 9.1 4.3
    including 208.0 211.7 3.7 7.2

    (1) Assay results presented over core length. Additional drilling will be necessary to constrain the true width of the mineralized envelope of the gold system.

    The 2025 drilling campaign at the Golden Sky project is planned to be 15,000 metres and will test targets along the Dorset Zone mineralized structural corridor in addition to the BIF Gold Zone and the Eagle River Splay exploration area.

    Figure 1: Dorset West Fall 2024 Drill Results Map

    Figure 2: Dorset Structural Corridor Map

    The Golden Sky Project
    The 100%-owned Golden Sky Project is located within the Mishibishu Lake Greenstone Belt of Northern Ontario, which is host to Wesdome’s high-grade Eagle River and the Mishi open-pit gold mines. The Company’s 290-square-kilometres land package is located approximately 50 kilometres west of the town of Wawa and is situated immediately between the two Wesdome mines.

    The ongoing drill program on the Golden Sky Project is focused on the Dorset Gold Zone, which hosts a historic gold resource; the BIF Zone, a new gold zone discovery in a large banded iron formation; as well as the Eagle River Splay deformation zone, which shows potential for another extensive gold system. Angus’ drill programs on the near-surface Dorset Gold Zone have been successful at extending the strike length of the previously modelled zone from 750 metres to 1.7 kilometres. The Dorset Gold Zone historic estimated resource (using a 0.50 g/t Au cut-off) consists of an indicated resource of 40,000 ounces of gold (780,000 tonnes grading 1.4 g/t Au), and an inferred resource of 180,000 ounces of gold (4,760,000 tonnes grading 1.2 g/t Au). For greater details on the Golden Sky Project, please refer to the NI 43-101 technical report for the Golden Sky Project entitled, ’NI 43-101 Technical Report Wawa Property Ontario, Canada’ dated February 18, 2020, and available on the Company’s SEDAR profile.

    Qualified Person
    The scientific and technical content of this press release has been reviewed and approved by Breanne Beh, P.Geo, who is a “Qualified Person” as defined by National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”) and Chief Geologist for the Company.

    Quality Control
    During the last drilling program, assay samples were taken from the NQ core by sawing the drill core in half, with one-half sent to a certified commercial laboratory and the other half retained for future reference. A strict QA/QC program was applied to all samples; which includes insertion of mineralized standards and blank samples for each batch of 20 samples. The gold analyses were completed by fire-assay with an atomic absorption finish on 50 grams of materials. Repeats were carried out by fire-assay followed by gravimetric testing on each sample containing 3.0 g/t gold or more.

    About Angus Gold:
    Angus Gold Inc. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of highly prospective gold properties. The Company’s flagship project is the Golden Sky Project in Wawa, Ontario. The Project is immediately adjacent to the Eagle River Mine of Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd. 

    On behalf of Angus Gold Inc.,

    Breanne Beh
    President and Chief Executive Officer

    INQUIRIES:
    Lindsay Dunlop, Vice President Investor Relations
    Email: info@angusgold.com
    Phone: 647-259-1790
    Company Website: www.angusgold.com

    TSXV: GUS | USOTC: ANGVF

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This News Release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company’s future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, or “plan”. Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet management’s expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company’s objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: the ability to anticipate and counteract the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the business of the Company, including without limitation the effects of COVID-19 on the capital markets, commodity prices supply chain disruptions, restrictions on labour and workplace attendance and local and international travel, failure to receive requisite approvals in respect of the transactions contemplated by the Agreement, failure to identify mineral resources, failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves, the inability to complete a feasibility study which recommends a production decision, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, political risks, inability to fulfill the duty to accommodate First Nations and other indigenous peoples, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in the Company’s public documents filed on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

    Figures accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5f6f7570-eb7e-4755-9872-9285c63d2fac
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db616132-c341-48ef-b341-7bc6280b6078

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Purpose Investments Inc. Announces Final January 2025 Distribution Rate for Purpose High Interest Savings Fund, Purpose US Cash Fund, Purpose Cash Management Fund, and Purpose USD Cash Management Fund

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purpose Investments Inc. announced today the final January 2025 distribution rates for Purpose High Interest Savings Fund, Purpose US Cash Fund, Purpose Cash Management Fund, and Purpose USD Cash Management Fund.

    The following table reflects the final distribution amounts for the month of December. Ex-distribution date is January 29, 2025.

    Open-End Fund Ticker Symbol Final distribution per unit Record Date Payable Date Distribution Frequency
    Purpose USD Cash Management Fund – ETF Units MNU.U US $ 0.3689 01/29/2025 02/04/2025 Monthly
    Purpose Cash Management Fund – ETF Units MNY $0.3003 01/29/2025 02/04/2025 Monthly
    Purpose High Interest Savings Fund – ETF Units PSA $0.1286 01/29/2025 02/04/2025 Monthly
    Purpose US Cash Fund – ETF Units PSU.U US $ 0.3464 01/29/2025 02/04/2025 Monthly

    About Purpose Investments Inc.

    Purpose Investments Inc. is an asset management company with more than $23 billion in assets under management. Purpose Investments has an unrelenting focus on client-centric innovation and offers a range of managed and quantitative investment products. Purpose Investments is led by well-known entrepreneur Som Seif and is a division of Purpose Unlimited, an independent technology-driven financial services company.

    For further information, please contact:
    Keera Hart
    Keera.Hart@kaiserpartners.com
    905-580-1257

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses may all be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus and other disclosure documents before investing. Investment funds are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurance that the full amount of your investment in a fund will be returned to you. If the securities are purchased or sold on a stock exchange, you may pay more or receive less than the current net asset value. Investment funds are not guaranteed; their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: How do Chinese people celebrate Spring Festival?

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

    BEIJING, Jan. 28 — Even though the Spring Festival officially falls on Jan. 29 this year, the Chinese people have already entered the festive “Guonian” period, which translates to “crossing the year.” This special time is filled with a rich array of traditions and celebrations that mark the end of the old year and the joyful arrival of the new one.

    In December 2024, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added the Spring Festival, the social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of the traditional new year, to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This means the Year of the Snake marks the first “heritage edition” of the Chinese New Year.

    How do the Chinese celebrate their most important festival, now recognized as a cultural heritage of humanity? Here’s a guide to the traditions and festivities.

    WHAT ARE TYPICAL CELEBRATIONS OF SPRING FESTIVAL?

    According to UNESCO, “In China, the Spring Festival marks the beginning of the new year. It falls on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar.”

    While the new year technically begins at midnight, the real celebrations start a week earlier with the Little New Year. The festivities stretch all the way to the Lantern Festival, which falls on the fifteenth day and marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

    The festive atmosphere begins even earlier. The Laba Festival, celebrated on the eighth day of the twelfth month in the Chinese calendar, is often seen as the precursor to the Spring Festival. A popular rhyme in northern China says, “Kids, kids, don’t be greedy. After the Laba Festival, it’s New Year already!”

    On Laba, families enjoy porridge made from various grains and beans, which symbolizes harvest and prosperity. They celebrate the abundance of the past year and wish for a bountiful year ahead.

    The rhyme also outlines the preparations that begin with the Little New Year, including house cleaning, buying new clothes, and preparing delicious food. Families decorate their homes with red couplets, window paper cuts and New Year posters.

    Little New Year, observed on the 23rd and 24th days of the twelfth month in northern and southern China, respectively, is also known as the Kitchen God Festival. It is a time to honor the Kitchen God, the deity believed to protect the household. Families clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and prepare for a fresh start.

    After a week of bustling preparations, New Year’s Eve arrives, a day filled with the longing for family reunions. The centerpiece of the Spring Festival is the New Year’s Eve reunion dinner. No matter how far apart, families make an effort to gather and share this special meal. A popular song captures this sentiment perfectly: “Whether you have money or not, always return home to celebrate the New Year with your family.”

    As midnight strikes, the old year is symbolically cast away with the sound of firecrackers. The line, “Amid the boom of firecrackers, a year has come to an end,” from the Song Dynasty poet Wang Anshi, remains familiar to all Chinese people. Today, firecrackers continue to mark the end of the old year and serve as a tradition that dates back to scaring away the mythical beast Nian.

    Another custom is staying up late, or even all night, on New Year’s Eve. Families gather to welcome the New Year, creating a cherished moment of unity and celebration.

    The celebrations continue into New Year’s Day, which marks the beginning of a new wave of festivities. From this point, the focus shifts from family gatherings to exchanges of greetings and rituals with relatives, neighbors and friends. A common tradition is giving red envelopes filled with cash, typically from older generations to younger ones, as a symbol of good fortune.

    From the first to the tenth day of the New Year, relatives visit one another, and public events like temple fairs, Shehuo (folk performances), and lantern shows bring communities together. People extend New Year greetings to loved ones and enjoy the vibrant celebrations until the Lantern Festival, the first full-moon day of the year. This marks the end of the New Year celebrations and the conclusion of the festive period.

    WHAT VALUES DOES SPRING FESTIVAL CONVEY?

    The Spring Festival is not only the highlight of China’s cultural calendar but also embodies continuity and transformation. Families gather to honor their traditions, and the past and present intertwine through rituals, storytelling and communal gatherings.

    Far beyond a celebration, the Spring Festival promotes values deeply embedded in Chinese culture. It fosters social cohesion by uniting people around shared traditions and celebrations, strengthening community bonds. On a broader scale, the festival serves as a reminder of Chinese cultural identity, connecting people across generations and reinforcing a sense of pride in their heritage.

    It emphasizes family values, encouraging people to reunite with loved ones and honor ancestors through rituals. The goal is to seek protection from misfortune and wish for prosperity, stability, and a bright future. These values, along with the traditions passed down both informally within families and formally through education, shape the national character of the Chinese people.

    The values celebrated during the Spring Festival also align with China’s commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation. “The festival is celebrated with diverse customs, including the preparation of traditional dishes, the hanging of red lanterns, and vibrant performances featuring lion and dragon dances. These practices, deeply rooted in history, reflect the values of harmony, prosperity and renewal — values that resonate across cultures,” said Ljiljana Stevic, director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Banja Luka in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his video message for the upcoming Year of the Snake that the snake symbolizes wisdom, resilience, and renewal. “In the strained times, let us be guided by these qualities and renew our commitment to peace, equality, and justice.”

    Guterres also expressed gratitude to China and the Chinese people for their support to the United Nations. “I thank China and the Chinese people for your steadfast support of the United Nations, multilateralism and global cooperation. Let us embrace new beginnings with hope and determination to create a better future for all.”

    MIL OSI China News –