Blog

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Altair Engineering Inc. – ALTR

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Altair Engineering Inc. (NASDAQ: ALTR), relating to a proposed merger with Siemens AG. Under the terms of the agreement Altair stockholders will receive $113.00 per share in cash.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/altair-engineering-inc-altr/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. – STAF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: STAF), relating to a proposed merger with Atlantic International Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, Staffing 360 shareholders will receive 1.202 Atlantic shares for each Staffing 360 share. Atlantic and Staffing 360 shareholders will own approximately 90% and 10%, respectively, of the combined company.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/staffing-360-solutions-inc-staf/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of BM Technologies, Inc. – BMTX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating BM Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BMTX), relating to a proposed merger with First Carolina Bank. Under the terms of the agreement, BM Technologies stockholders will receive $5.00 per share in cash per share of BM Technologies common stock.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/bm-technologies-inc-bmtx/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1.2 million to boost rural transport in the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Winning projects use the latest innovations to help meet the unique transport needs of people who live in rural areas.

    • eight projects awarded £150,000 each to better connect rural communities
    • winning projects include digital tools that support patients and staff to travel to NHS hospitals
    • funding will enhance travel for rural residents, while delivering greener transport technologies

    People living in rural areas could benefit from smoother and more frequent transport, thanks to government funding announced today (6 November 2025).

    Small businesses have won a share of £1.2 million as part of the Rural Transport Accelerator Fund, which supports the development of innovative concepts that will improve rural transport, in partnership with local authorities. The scheme aims to boost the wellbeing of communities, support rural jobs and kickstart local economies.

    Winners include a digital tool to predict rural transport demand and deliver on-demand services, as well as a journey mapping tool to support health providers in delivering hospital transport for patients.

    The 8 projects, which have won £150,000 each, are spread across the UK’s rural areas and will be trialled from Norfolk to Herefordshire and Suffolk to south east Scotland.

    Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said:

    People who live in rural areas have unique needs when it comes to transport and we’re always looking for ways to improve connections across the country.

    Through our funding, these projects will shake up the way rural transport is delivered, using the latest innovations to help residents see their friends and family, do their weekly food shop or attend hospital appointments.

    The winning projects include:

    • You.Smart.Thing – development of a digital tool to offer shared, demand responsive or community transport options for those without car access, trialled in Warwickshire
    • UrbanTide – mapping rural hospital patient journeys to identify barriers to accessing health services in rural areas and support health providers in enhancing rural transport services, trialled near Fife
    • Alchera Technologies – use of data insights to create a behavioural travel model to help local authorities with rural mobility decision making, trialled in Norfolk County Council
    • Civil Water Management – installation of new drainage systems using recycled car tyres to aid safer cycling along flood-prone sections of cycle routes, trialled in Milton Keynes County Council

    This year’s scheme called for solutions to a number of challenges that rural areas face:

    • the importance of rural roads for everyday journeys
    • driving towards a sustainable future
    • enabling innovation in rural mobility
    • advancements in agricultural transportation
    • open challenge – building communities and enabling adoption of technology in rural areas

    The grant is delivered in collaboration with the Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation accelerator for cities, transport and place leadership

    Connected Places Catapult’s Chief Executive Officer, Erika Lewis, said:

    I am delighted to welcome 8 exciting companies onto the Rural Transport Accelerator.

    Their innovations and technologies promise to make a real impact for people living in rural areas, and I look forward to following their progress through the programme over the coming months.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Better Care for Mental Health Patients Under Major Reforms

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Mental Health Act reformed to improve treatment of patients and address disparities

    • Outdated Mental Health Act modernised to better support patients, treat them more humanely, and address disparities

    • Reforms will introduce statutory care and treatment plans, end the use of police and prison cells to place people experiencing a mental health crisis, and end the inappropriate detention of autistic people and people with learning disabilities

    • Greater involvement of patients, families and carers will improve treatment whilst protecting patients, staff and the wider public

    New laws will give patients sectioned under the Mental Health Act more dignity and say over their care in long-awaited updates to be introduced in Parliament today (Wednesday, 6 November).

    Currently, outdated laws do not meet modern standards and fail to give patients an adequate voice. For example, individuals experiencing severe mental illness can be placed in police cells, and the law automatically gives a patient’s nearest relative – rather than the person of their choosing such as a partner – a say in decisions about their care.

    Black people are over three times more likely to be detained under the Act, whilst those with a learning disability and autistic people are also found to be inappropriately sectioned. Patients currently have little say over their care and treatment should they be detained, or over who should be involved in making decision related to their care, such as family members and carers. 

    The new Mental Health Bill addresses the significant changes in attitudes towards mental illness since the original Act was passed, recognising outdated laws around the treatment of people in a mental health crisis are no longer tolerable. Modernising the Bill was a manifesto commitment and will reform the existing Mental Health Act to make it fit for purpose, improving patients’ experiences of hospital and mental health outcomes, while also introducing stronger protections for patients, staff and the general public.

    This includes making it a legal requirement for each patient to have ‘care and treatment plans’ tailored and shaped by their individual needs that will make clear what is needed to progress them to discharge. The Bill will also give patients the right to elect a person to represent their interests and greater access to advocacy when they are detained. Together, these reforms will make it more likely for patients to stay in contact with health services and continue to engage with treatment.

    As well as ensuring patients have a voice in their care, the reforms also recognise the critical role that families and carers can play in keeping patients safe – providing insight and knowledge of a patient’s wishes and preferences and an understanding of what keeps them safe – including when a patient is too unwell to express this themselves. The Bill will strengthen the rights of families and carers through changes to the Nominated Person role, and require clinicians to consult with others close to the patient as they make decisions around their care where appropriate or where the patient wishes.  

    Police and prison cells will also no longer be used to place people experiencing a mental health crisis, as well as creating more space for police forces to hold criminal suspects. Instead, patients will be supported to access a suitable healthcare facility that will better support their needs.

    The Mental Health Act is vital to keeping people safe when necessary. It will continue to provide clinicians with the powers to admit and treat people if they become a risk to themselves or others.

    Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:

    Our outdated mental health system is letting down some of the most vulnerable people in our society, and is in urgent need of reform.

    The treatment of autistic people and people with learning disabilities, and the way in which black people are disproportionately targeted by the act should shame us all.

    By bringing the Mental Health Act in line with the 21st Century, we will make sure patients are treated with dignity and respect and the public are kept safe.

    Safety is paramount, which is why the Bill also includes measures to ensure patients, staff and the general public are better protected. The Bill will improve decision making around detention, discharge, care and treatment. As part of this, the Bill will introduce a new requirement for the Responsible Clinician to consult another person before they discharge a patient. Increased access to second opinion doctors will help ensure care is appropriate, compassionate and effective. Discharge processes will also be reviewed more broadly and will include a safety management plan for the patient, to keep themselves and other safe.  

    Claire Murdoch, NHS National Mental Health Director, said:

    This new Mental Health Act is a once in a generation opportunity to ensure that patients experiencing serious mental illness and crises receive safe, modern, evidence-based care, and that the needs and wishes of patients and their loved ones are central to care and better mental health outcomes.

    This comes alongside the NHS’s work to transform mental health services – either through intervening earlier with hundreds of NHS teams working in schools, or trialling new 24/7 crisis mental health hubs to prevent people needing hospital care in the first place, and if an admission to hospital is needed the health service is working with local services to ensure this is delivered in a safe and therapeutic environment close to people’s homes.

    Lord Timpson, Minister for Prisons and Probation, said: 

    This Bill will rightly end the use of prison cells for people who need care under the Mental Health Act and ensure they get the urgent specialist help they need.

    It will also mean prisoners requiring mental health hospital treatment are transferred quicker, and builds on our ongoing work to ensure prisons make better citizens and not better criminals.

    Whilst there have been decreases in the number of detentions from 2021/22 and 2022/23, latest data from NHS England shows an increase in 2023/24 with 22,000 people subject to the Act as of September.

    An independent review of the Mental Health Act, chaired by Professor Sir Simon Wessely, President of the Royal Society of Medicine, and commissioned by former Prime Minister Theresa May in 2017, found rising rates of detention under the Act, racial disparities, poor patient experience especially for autistic people and those with a learning disability.    

    For those with a learning disability or autistic people, the Act will be amended to place a limit of 28 days for which they can be detained unless they have a co-occuring mental health condition.

    Professor Sir Simon Wessely, Chair of the Independent Review of the Mental Health Act, said:

    I am delighted that at long last a new Mental Health Act bill is to go before Parliament. No one doubts that it is time to modernise our legislation, in order to achieve the goal of reducing coercion and increasing choice for those who suffer from the most severe mental illnesses.

    Our reforms will achieve that by ensuring better treatment and discharge planning with more family involvement, replacing outdated Victorian rules, and by reforming community treatment orders tackle unacceptable ethnic differences. Most of all ensuring that more attention is given to patient preferences will improve compliance with essential treatment, reduce coercion, whilst still protecting the public where necessary.

    Reforms in the Mental Health Bill aim to improve patient experiences, choice and autonomy as well as tackling racial discrimination and better supporting those with learning disabilities.

    This includes:

    • Increase the frequency of clinical reviews, to better ensure that the treatment patients receive is appropriate

    • Update the use of Community Treatment Orders, so that they are only used when appropriate and proportionate

    • Limit the length of time that people with a learning disability and/or autistic people can be detained under the Act, if they do not have a co-occurring mental disorder that needs hospital treatment and have not committed a criminal offence

    • End the use of police and prison cells for detaining someone experiencing a mental health crisis instead of getting them access to a facility where they can get the proper support, such as a hospital

    • Speed up transfers from prison to hospital by limiting the time it can take to transfer prisoners who need treatment in a mental health hospital to a maximum of 28 days

    The action follows the introduction of one of the world’s first all-hours mental health crisis support service in August through NHS 111. The government also announced £26 million will be invested to open new mental health crisis centres as part of last week’s Budget, with extra funding also secured to provide talking therapies to an extra 380,000 patients.

    For people who need support at A&E, every emergency department in England now also has a liaison psychiatric team available to offer specialist care. 

    A full list of mental health support options is available via the NHS.uk website. The service is also suitable for deaf people, with tailored services available via the NHS 111 website.

    Commenting on the announcement, Mark Rowland, Chief Executive at the Mental Health Foundation, said:

    These long overdue updates to the Mental Health Act cannot come soon enough. People need support that reflects our modern understanding of how to help and care for people during a mental health crisis – not our understanding four decades ago. The original version of the Act has driven racial disparities, stripped those who are sectioned of their humanity in a wholly unnecessary way, and all too often made crises worse.

    We particularly welcome reforms to give greater say to patients, such as granting people with severe mental health problems more control over who makes decisions for them during a crisis, banning the use of police cells as ‘places of safety’ for people experiencing a crisis, and addressing the inappropriate use of Community Treatment Orders, which Black people were 11 times more likely to receive. We will look to work with the Department of Health and Social Care over the next weeks and months to help shape the Mental Health Bill and put dignity at the heart of how our public services support people experiencing a mental health crisis.

    Mark Winstanley, Chief Executive, Rethink Mental Illness, said:

    People tell us that the Mental Health Act has saved their life, but that the experience was horrendous. It is hard to fathom that when people are at their most unwell they are still routinely placed in prison cells, have no say in who is appointed as their nearest relative and have so little involvement in their treatment.

    Reform of this vital legislation is long overdue, and today marks another important step towards the reality of a Mental Health Act fit for the 21st century. Reform should help ensure people are with dignity and respect, and help to protect us all.

    We hope the Bill is given careful passage through Parliament so it can be swiftly implemented, and bring improvements for the thousands of people who are detained under the act every year.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Praises Ousted Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) expressed his appreciation for Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire him today over their differences on the conduct of the war and on domestic political issues, and made the following statement:

    “I commend Yoav Gallant on his work as Defense Minister and his service to Israel at this important time. I have met with the now-former Defense Minister several times, including on my last trip to Israel in June. He was always well-versed on the issues and a credit to the government and his nation. I wish him well in his future pursuits.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tis nearly the season again – beware of your parcels being pinched

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Sergeant Rowan Steenkamp, Wellington Prevention Coordinator.

    We’re heading into the busiest time of year for postal deliveries and Police want to remind everyone to do what they can to stop parcel theft.

    Coming into Christmas there are more parcels being delivered, and more chance for your presents to be stolen.

    Thieves will take any opportunity to steal, and parcels left on front doorsteps or in apartment building common areas are an easy target.

    Our advice is:

    • Get packages delivered to a place where someone will be home to receive them, or to a work address.

    • If you do have deliveries made to your home, make sure you’re going to be home to sign for them, or have a secure location where they can be left.

    • Make sure your delivery instructions are clear, and ask for packages not to be placed at your front door, or on top of an apartment building post box.

    • If you’re not going to be home when the parcel is delivered, arrange to collect your parcel from the depot, or have the parcel redirected to the address of someone you trust.

    • Be smart when disposing of packaging, so passers-by can’t see what you’ve been buying.

    • Report any suspicious behaviour to Police – e.g. if you see a car following a courier van, or an unexpected visitor knocks on your door asking for someone you don’t know.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $5 million in latest round of recreational fishing grants now open 

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    6 Nov 2024

    The Minns Labor Government today opened the next round of Recreational Fishing Trust Grants, with $5 million available for fishing clubs, community groups and other organisations to run projects which improve and promote recreational fishing in their local area.

    For the first time, applicants in this round will be able to access the $2 million recreational fishing small infrastructure grants program announced by the NSW Government in August.

    This program will make it easier for local fishing clubs, community groups and other organisations to apply for funding for projects such as fishing platforms, fish cleaning tables, fishing access tracks, kayak launching platforms and other fishing facilities.

    Applicants are encouraged to contact dedicated Department staff to discuss their ideas and for assistance in applying your small infrastructure grants.

    As well as small infrastructure, funding is also available to promote participation in the sport and the mental health and well-being benefits of fishing, such as for free fishing events, fishing workshops, come and try fishing days, fishing for therapy initiatives, and the development of educational material to promote sustainable and responsible fishing practices.

    Grants are available for both large projects valued at more than $10,000 in funding and small projects involving less than $10,000.

    Applications will be open for the next six weeks, until 18 December 2024.

    Following the recent review of the Recreational Fishing Trust, the NSW Government will continue to provide greater support to the NSW recreational fishing community by:

    • Strengthening communications with all fishers and organisations to encourage them to apply for grants to improve fishing in their local areas.
    • Providing more support for applicants to discuss ideas for projects and assist with developing their applications through the dedicated Recreational Fishing Trust grants assistance phoneline.
    • Making the grant application process clearer and simpler, so groups have the best opportunity to receive funding, including streamlining the application form.

    This round of funding follows the recent announcements of some $20 million in grants and program funding from the Recreational Fishing Trust to enhance recreational fishing across the State.

    Funding guidelines and the new online application form are available here or you can email recreational.fishingtrust@dpird.nsw.gov.au or call the dedicated Recreational Fishing Trust phoneline on 02 4424 7428.

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “We want to make fishing accessible, enjoyable and safe for everyone.

    “By streamlining the grant application process, we aim to provide every fishing group with a greater chance to secure funding for projects that improve the fishing experience in their local communities.

    “The $2 million infrastructure grants program will ensure more of the licence fees collected from recreational fishers are invested back into the infrastructure we know fishers want, such as fishing platforms, fish cleaning tables and other fishing facilities.

    “This is an excellent example of how funds generated by the NSW Recreational Fishing Licence Fee are reinvested into projects that directly support the recreational fishing community.

    “If you have an idea on how to improve your local fishing spot or make fishing even better for your local community, I encourage you to contact our dedicated DPIRD staff to discuss your ideas.”

    MEDIA: Michael Salmon | Minister Moriarty | 0417 495 018

    Images of completed infrastructure projects available here

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: INVESTOR ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Aerovate Therapeutics, Inc. – AVTE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Aerovate Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: AVTE), relating to a proposed merger with Jade Biosciences. Under the terms of the agreement, pre-merger Aerovate stockholders are expected to own approximately 1.6% of the combined company, while pre-merger Jade stockholders are expected to own approximately 98.4% of the combined entity.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/aerovate-therapeutics-inc-avte/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust Releases 2024 Third Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES.

    FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAW.

    TSX-AD.UN

    CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (together, as applicable, with its subsidiaries, “Alaris” or the “Trust“) is pleased to announce its results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. The results are prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. All amounts below are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

    In January 2024, Alaris determined that it met the definition of an investment entity, as defined by IFRS 10, Consolidated financial statements. This change in status has fundamentally changed how Alaris prepares, presents and discusses its financial results relative to prior periods. IFRS requires that this change in accounting be made prospectively and as a result prior periods are not restated to reflect the change in Alaris’ investment entity status. Accordingly, the readers of this press release, Alaris’ third quarter interim MD&A and unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements should exercise significant caution in reviewing, considering, and drawing conclusions from period-to-period comparisons and changes, as the direct comparisons between dates or across periods can be inappropriate if not carefully considered in this context.

    Highlights:

    • For the three months ended September 30, 2024 Alaris generated $0.78 per unit of additional book value, improving this metric to $22.80;
    • For the three months ended September 30, 2024 the Trust, together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Acquisition Entities”), earned a total of $65.9 million of revenue, including, $65.4 million of Partner Distribution revenue net of foreign exchange, and $0.5 million of transaction fee income, which was ahead of previous guidance of $38.7 million, and compares to $47.2 million of Partner Revenue in Q3 2023, an increase of 40%;
      • Included in Partner Distribution revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2024, is $27.5 million of common Distributions, which included a one time distribution of US$5.1 million from Ohana Growth Partners LLC (“Ohana“) and US$14.7 million distribution from Fleet Advantage, LLC (“Fleet”). Common Distribution revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 is $31.8 million, which for the second quarter in a row has outperformed the comparable period in the prior year by more than double. Alaris’ Run Rate Revenue (7) included in the outlook below has been increased to reflect overall higher expected annual common dividends from Partners of $19.4 million;
    • Alaris net distributable cash flow (6) for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $88.0 million or $1.93 per unit increased by 28%, from $68.6 million and $1.51 per unit in the nine months ended September 30, 2023 after adjusting the comparable period for non-recurring settlement and litigation costs that occurred in 2023;
    • The Actual Payout Ratio (2) for the Trust, based on Alaris net distributable cash flow (6) for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was 53%;
    • The current weighted average combined Earnings Coverage Ratio (3) for Alaris’ Partners remains at approximately 1.5x with ten of nineteen Partners at 1.5x or above. In addition, eleven of our partners have either no debt or less than 1.0x Senior Debt to EBITDA on a trailing twelve-month basis;
    • During the quarter, the Trust, via the Acquisition Entities, invested approximately US$35 million into Ohana as a dividend recap in exchange for convertible preferred equity with a 14% yield fully paid-in-kind;
    • Subsequent to the quarter end, the Trust, via the Acquisition Entities, made a follow-on investment of US$10.0 million of additional preferred equity in Cresa LLC (“Cresa”), which has the same metrics as the initial preferred equity investment, bringing the total investment in Cresa to US$30.0 million. Following this transaction, the Trust has invested a total of approximately $139 million in the year.

    “In addition to highlighting the continued stability of Alaris’ portfolio and cash flow stream, the third quarter results continue to show the growing success and importance of our common equity portfolio. While some of this quarter’s common equity cash flow is non-recurring in nature, we are seeing more and more value from that strategy crystallizing into cash returns. Deployment activity is constructive for the end of the year and both interest rate cuts and US dollar strength provide us with tailwinds going into next year, ” said Steve King President and CEO.

    Results of Operations

    Note where the financial information for Q3 2024 is comparable to specific information from the prior period Q3 2023 condensed consolidated interim financial statements, amounts have been provided for comparative purposes. As noted above, users of this press release, interim management discussion and analysis and the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements to which it relates should exercise significant caution in reviewing, considering and drawing conclusions from period-to-period comparisons and changes.

    Per Unit Results Three months ended Nine months ended
    Period ending September 30   2024   2023 % Change   2024   2023 % Change
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investment $ 2.16 $ 1.90 +13.7 % $ 4.11 $ 3.74 +9.9 %
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 1.98 $ 1.76 +12.5 % $ 3.62 $ 3.40 +6.5 %
    Alaris net distributable cashflow $ 0.72 $ 0.44 +63.6 % $ 1.93 $ 1.21 +59.5 %
    Adjusted earning per unit $ 1.37 $ 1.31 +4.6 % $ 2.35 $ 2.15 +9.3 %
    Weighted average basic units (000’s)   45,498   45,498     45,498   45,433  

    During the three months ended September 30, 2024, Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments (5) per unit increased by 13.7% as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2023. During the current quarter common Partner Distribution revenue increased by more than 200%, primarily as a result of common Distributions received from Fleet of US$14.7 million, which was greater than their prior year Distribution of US$5.9 million, and a common Distribution received from Ohana of US$5.1 million, as compared to nil distribution received in Q3 2023. Partially offsetting this increase is a quarter over quarter decrease to the Net unrealized gain on partner investments of 16.3% to $33.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2024. Q3 2024’s Net unrealized gain on Partner investments of $33.0 million is made up of notable increases to the fair value in Sono Bello, LLC (“Sono Bello“), Amur Financial Group Inc. (“Amur”), Fleet, Vehicle Leasing Holdings, LLC, dba D&M Leasing (“D&M”), and The Shipyard, LLC (“Shipyard”), which were partially offset by decreases to the fair value of Heritage Restoration, LLC (“Heritage”) and SCR Mining and Tunneling, LP (“SCR”). During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments (5) per unit increased by 9.9% as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023. This increase is reflective of increases in Partner Distribution revenue, partially offset by a lower net gain to the realized and unrealized fair value on Partner investments. Net realized gain on partner investments of $9.0 million and net unrealized gain of $32.4 million decreased in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 by 29.2% and 13.9%, respectively, as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023.

    For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, Adjusted EBITDA (1) per unit increased by 12.5% and 6.5%, respectively, as compared to the relative periods in 2023. Per unit increases are primarily due to higher Partner Distribution revenue. Partially offsetting these increases are decreases to the net realized and unrealized gain on Partner Investments relative to the comparable periods in 2023, and higher adjusted operating expenses; after non-reoccurring litigation and legal costs that were incurred in 2023 have been removed in the calculation Adjusted EBITDA (1).

    Alaris net distributable cashflow (6) provides a summary of third-party cash receipts, less operating cash outflows by the Trust in combination with the Acquisition Entities. Alaris net distributable cashflow (6) per unit increased by 63.6% in the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 59.5% in the nine months ended September 30, 2024, both as compared to the same periods in 2023. Period over period increases are due to the current periods higher common Distributions and lower cash taxes paid, all as compared to the relative periods in 2023. The nine months ended September 30, 2024 Alaris net distributable cashflow (6) is $88.0 million, after adjusting out non-recurring settlement and litigation costs of $13.7 million in the prior year, the nine months ended September 30, 2023 distributable cashflow amounts to $68.6 million, and results in an adjusted period over period increase of 28.3%.

    Adjusted earnings (10) per unit increased by 4.6% in the three months ended September 30, 2024 which is primarily driven by higher Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments (5) as discussed above, and partially offset by higher total income tax expense in Q3 2024. The nine months ended September 30, 2024, Adjusted earnings (10) per unit increased by 9.3% which in addition to the changes listed for the three months ended September 30, 2024, is higher due to lower operating expenses during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as compared to the prior year resulting from non-recurring litigation and legal costs incurred in 2023.

    Outlook

    During the three months ended September 30, 2024, the Trust, through its Acquisition Entities invested approximately $48 million, which was used to invest in convertible preferred units of Ohana. Subsequent to the quarter, Alaris invested an additional US$10.0 million into Cresa, bringing Alaris’ total investment in Cresa to US$30.0 million and as of the date of this MD&A the total invested during the year to approximately $139 million. These transactions are summarized in the outlook below, which includes Alaris’ Run Rate Revenue (7) for the next twelve months and is expected to be approximately $171 million. This includes current contracted amounts, an additional $1.2 million from LMS related to Distributions deferred in 2023 and an estimated $19.4 million of common dividends. In Q3 2024, the Trust together with its Acquisition Entities earned $65.9 million, $65.4 million in Partner Distributions net of foreign exchange and $0.5 million of third party transaction fee revenue, which was ahead of previous guidance of $38.7 million, primarily due to common distributions received from Fleet of $19.8 million, Ohana of $6.8 million and Amur of $0.5 million, as well as a higher realized foreign exchange rate on US denominated distributions. As with all common distributions, these distributions are not fixed or set in advance, but rather paid as declared and cashflow of partner permits. Alaris expects total revenue from its Partners in Q4 2024 of approximately $38.9 million.

    The Run Rate Cash Flow (8) table below outlines the Trust and its Acquisitions Entities combined expectation for Partners Distribution revenue, transaction fee revenue, general and administrative expenses, third party interest expense, tax expense and distributions to unitholders for the next twelve months. The Run Rate Cash Flow (8) is a forward looking supplementary financial measure and outlines the net cash from operating activities, less the distributions paid, that Alaris is expecting to generate over the next twelve months. The Trust’s method of calculating this measure may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

    Run rate general and administrative expenses are currently estimated at $17.0 million and include all public company costs incurred by the Trust and its Acquisition Entities. The Trust’s Run Rate Payout Ratio (9) is expected to be within a range of 65% and 70% when including Run Rate Revenue (7), overhead expenses and its existing capital structure. The table below sets out our estimated Run Rate Cash Flow (8) as well as the after-tax impact of positive net investment, the impact of every 1% increase in Secure Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) based on current outstanding USD debt and the impact of every $0.01 change in the USD to CAD exchange rate.

    Alaris’ financial statements and MD&A are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on our website at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    Run Rate Cash Flow ($ thousands except per unit) Amount ($) $ / Unit
    Run Rate Revenue, Partner Distribution revenue $ 171,300   $ 3.77  
    General and administrative expenses   (17,000 )   (0.37 )
    Third party Interest and taxes     (57,100 )   (1.26 )
    Net cash from operating activities $ 97,200   $ 2.14  
    Distributions paid     (61,900 )   (1.36 )
    Run Rate Cash Flow   $ 35,300   $ 0.78  
           
    Other considerations (after taxes and interest):    
    New investments Every $50 million deployed @ 14%   +2,426     +0.05  
    Interest rates Every 1.0% increase in SOFR   -2,600     -0.06  
    USD to CAD Every $0.01 change of USD to CAD   +/- 900     +/- 0.02  


    Earnings Release Date and Conference Call Details

    Alaris management will host a conference call at 9am MT (11am ET), Wednesday, November 6, 2024 to discuss the financial results and outlook for the Trust.

    Participants must register for the call using this link: Q3 2024 Conference Call. Pre-register to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN to access the call seamlessly. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call). Participants can access the webcast here: Q3 Webcast. A replay of the webcast will be available two hours after the call and archived on the same web page for six months. Participants can also find the link on our website, stored under the “Investors” section – “Presentations and Events”, at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    An updated corporate presentation will be posted to the Trust’s website within 24 hours at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    About the Trust:

    Alaris’ investment and investing activity refers to providing, through the Acquisition Entities, alternative equity to private companies (“Partners”) to meet their business and capital objectives, which includes management buyouts, dividend recapitalization, growth and acquisitions. Alaris achieves this by investing its unitholder capital, as well as debt, through the Acquisition Entities, in exchange for distributions, dividends or interest (collectively, “Distributions”) as well as capital appreciation on both preferred and common equity, with the principal objectives of generating predictable cash flows for distribution payments to its unitholders and growing net book value through returns from capital appreciation. Distributions, other than common equity Distributions, from the Partners are adjusted annually based on the percentage change of a “top-line” financial performance measure such as gross margin or same store sales and rank in priority to common equity position.

    Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures

    The terms Adjusted Earnings, components of Corporate investments, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Extended group net distributable cashflow, Earnings Coverage Ratio, Run Rate Payout Ratio, Actual Payout Ratio, Run Rate Revenue, Run Rate Cash Flow, and Per Unit amounts (collectively, the “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures”) are financial measures used in this MD&A that are not standard measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) . The Trust’s method of calculating the Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, the Trust’s Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

    (1) “Adjusted EBITDA” and “EBITDA”: are Non-GAAP financial measures and refer to earnings determined in accordance with IFRS, before depreciation and amortization, interest expense (finance costs) and income tax expense. EBITDA is used by management and many investors to determine the ability of an issuer to generate cash from operations. “Adjusted EBITDA” and “Adjusted EBITDA per unit”, which is a non-GAAP ratio that removes the impact from unrealized fluctuations in exchange rates and their impact on the Trust’s investments at fair value, as well as one time items and the impact of finance costs and taxes included within the net gain on Corporate Investments incurred by the Acquisition Entities and, on a per unit basis, is and the same amount divided by weighted average basic units outstanding. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA per unit are useful supplemental measures from which to determine the Trust’s ability to generate cash available for servicing its loans and borrowings, income taxes and distributions to unitholders. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures and ratios presented by other issuers.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024   2023   % Change   2024     2023 % Change
    Earnings $ 51,027 $ 63,770     $ 156,475   $ 97,710  
    Depreciation and amortization   135   58       396     169  
    Finance costs   1,150   8,510       3,445     21,909  
    Total income tax expense   251   11,611       554     20,902  
    EBITDA $ 52,563 $ 83,949   -37.4 % $ 160,870   $ 140,690 +14.3 %
    Adjustments:            
    Gain on derecognition of previously consolidated entities $ $     $ (30,260 ) $  
    Foreign exchange   11,334   (3,947 )     (19,224 )   156  
    Sandbox litigation and legal costs     21           13,697  
    Finance costs, senior credit facility and convertible debentures   6,962         22,193      
    Acquisition Entities income tax expense – current   2,987         10,018      
    Acquisition Entities income tax expense – deferred   16,109         21,272      
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 89,955 $ 80,023   +12.4 % $ 164,869   $ 154,543 +6.7 %
    Adjusted EBITDA per unit $ 1.98 $ 1.76   +12.5 % $ 3.62   $ 3.40 +6.5 %

    (2) “Actual Payout Ratio” is a supplementary financial measure and refers to Alaris’ total distributions paid during the period (annually or quarterly) divided by the actual net cash from operating activities Alaris generated for the period. It represents the net cash from operating activities after distributions paid to unitholders available for either repayments of senior debt and/or to be used in investing activities.

    (3) “Earnings Coverage Ratio (“ECR”)” is a supplementary financial measure and refers to the EBITDA of a Partner divided by such Partner’s sum of debt servicing (interest and principal), unfunded capital expenditures and distributions to Alaris. Management believes the earnings coverage ratio is a useful metric in assessing our partners continued ability to make their contracted distributions.

    (4) “Net book value” and “net book value per unit” are Non-GAAP financial measures and represents the equity value of the company or total assts less total liabilities and the same amount divided by weighted average basic units outstanding. Net book value and net book value per unit are used by management to determine the growth in assets over the period net of amounts paid out to unitholders as distributions. Management believes net book value and net book value per unit are useful supplemental measures from which to compare the Trust’s growth period over period. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

        30-Sep   30-Jun   31-Dec
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024   2024   2023
    Total Assets $ 1,130,415 $ 1,093,177 $ 1,474,894
    Total Liabilities $ 93,236 $ 91,556 $ 514,071
    Net book value $ 1,037,179 $ 1,001,621 $ 960,823
    Weighted average basic units (000’s)   45,498   45,498   45,498
    Net book value per unit $ 22.80 $ 22.01 $ 21.12


    (5) “
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments The components of Corporate Investments are Non-GAAP financial measures and are presented for better comparability to prior year reporting. These amounts are reconciled to information from note 3 of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements below. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands   2024   2023 % Change   2024   2023 % Change
    Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange Note 1 $ 37,895 $ 37,844 +0.1 % $ 113,936 $ 108,543 +5.0 %
    Partner Distribution revenue – Common $ 27,501 $ 8,815 +212.0 % $ 31,807 $ 10,903 +191.7 %
    Net realized gain from Partners investments $ 29 $ 167 -82.6 % $ 9,005 $ 12,716 -29.2 %
    Net unrealized gain on Partners investments $ 33,006 $ 39,428 -16.3 % $ 32,463 $ 37,688 -13.9 %
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investment $ 98,431 $ 86,254 +14.1 % $ 187,211 $ 169,850 +10.2 %
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investment per unit $ 2.16 $ 1.90 +13.7 % $ 4.11 $ 3.74 +9.9 %

    Note 1 – In Q2 2023, Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange and Partner Distribution revenue – Common were presented as one line on the face of the income statement titled “Revenues, including realized foreign exchange gain” in the amount of $36,853 for the three months ended and $73,541 for the six months ended. Prior period Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 above has been adjusted to exclude Sono Bello’s management fee income (Q2 2023 three months – $496, Q2 2023 six months ended – $753) for period over period comparability, which in 2024 is recognized in the Trust’s Management and advisory fee income.

    (6) “Alaris net distributable cashflow is a non-GAAP measure that refers to all sources of external revenue in both the Trust and the Acquisition Entities less all general and administrative expenses, third party interest expense and tax expense. Alaris net distributable cashflow is a useful metric for management and investors as it provides a summary of the total cash from operating activities that can be used to pay the Trust distribution, repay senior debt and/or be used for additional investment purposes. The Trust’s method of calculating this Non-GAAP measure may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The 2023 comparatives are presented prior to the Trust’s change in status as a investment entity and have been aligned with the most comparative balance in the 2024 presentation.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024     2023   % Change   2024     2023   % Change
    Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange $ 37,895   $ 37,844     $ 113,936   $ 108,543    
    Partner Distribution revenue – Common   27,501     8,815       31,807     10,903    
    Third party management and advisory fees   504     506       1,526     1,260    
                 
    Expenditures of the Trust:            
    General and administrative   (4,484 )   (3,087 )     (13,308 )   (23,476 )  
    Current income tax expense   (509 )         (1,345 )      
    Third party cash interest paid by the Trust   (2,031 )   (2,032 )     (4,062 )   (4,062 )  
                 
    Expenditures incurred by Acquisition Entities:            
    Operating costs and other   (1,087 )   (928 )     (2,846 )   (2,046 )  
    Transactions costs   (378 )   (1,693 )     (2,531 )   (3,204 )  
    Acquisition Entities income tax expense – current   (2,987 )   (6,954 )     (10,018 )   (13,156 )  
    Cash interest paid, senior credit facility and convertible debentures   (6,668 )   (6,329 )     (18,038 )   (12,586 )  
                 
    Alaris’ changes in net working capital   (14,922 )   (6,063 )     (7,106 )   (7,253 )  
    Alaris net distributable cashflow $ 32,834   $ 20,079   +63.5 % $ 88,015   $ 54,923   +60.3 %
    Alaris net distributable cashflow per unit $ 0.72   $ 0.44   +63.6 % $ 1.93   $ 1.21   +59.5 %

    (7) “Run Rate Revenue” is a supplementary financial measure and refers to Alaris’ total revenue expected to be generated over the next twelve months based on contracted distributions from current Partners, excluding any potential Partner redemptions, it also includes an estimate for common dividends or distributions based on past practices, where applicable. Run Rate Revenue is a useful metric as it provides an expectation for the amount of revenue Alaris can expect to generate in the next twelve months based on information known.

    (8) “Run Rate Cash Flow” is a Non-GAAP financial measure and outlines the net cash from operating activities, net of distributions paid, that Alaris is expecting to have after the next twelve months. This measure is comparable to net cash from operating activities less distributions paid, as outlined in Alaris’ consolidated statements of cash flows.

    (9) “Run Rate Payout Ratio” is a Non-GAAP financial ratio that refers to Alaris’ distributions per unit expected to be paid over the next twelve months divided by the net cash from operating activities per unit calculated in the Run Rate Cash Flow table. Run Rate Payout Ratio is a useful metric for Alaris to track and to outline as it provides a summary of the percentage of the net cash from operating activities that can be used to either repay senior debt during the next twelve months and/or be used for additional investment purposes. Run Rate Payout Ratio is comparable to Actual Payout Ratio as defined above.

    (10) “Adjusted Earnings” is a Non-GAAP financial measure and Non-GAAP Ratio and refer to earnings determined in accordance with IFRS, before impact of the one time gain on derecognition of previously consolidated entities and foreign exchange gain (loss) and the same amount divided by weighted average basic units outstanding. Adjusted earnings and Adjusted earnings per unit are used by management to determine earnings excluding fluctuations due to unrealized changes in exchange rates that impact earnings and specifically the fair value of Corporate investment. Management believes Adjusted earning and Adjusted earnings per unit are useful measures from which to compare the Trust’s earnings period over period. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures and ratio may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024   2023   % Change   2024     2023 % Change
    Earnings $ 51,027 $ 63,770     $ 156,475   $ 97,710  
    Add back: Foreign exchange (gain) loss $ 11,334 $ (3,947 )   $ (19,224 ) $ 156  
    Add back: Gain on derecognition of previously consolidated entities $   na     $ (30,260 ) na  
    Adjusted earnings $ 62,361 $ 59,823   +4.2 % $ 106,991   $ 97,866 +9.3 %
    Adjusted earning per unit $ 1.37 $ 1.31   +4.6 % $ 2.35   $ 2.15 +9.3 %
                                 

    (11) “Per Unit” values, other than earnings per unit, refer to the related financial statement caption as defined under IFRS or related term as defined herein, divided by the weighted average basic units outstanding for the period.

    The terms Net Book Value, Components of Corporate investments, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Alaris net distributable cashflow, Earnings Coverage Ratio, Run Rate Payout Ratio, Actual Payout Ratio, Run Rate Revenue, Run Rate Cash Flow and Per Unit amounts should only be used in conjunction with the Trust’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements, complete versions of which available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) under applicable securities laws, including any applicable “safe harbor” provisions. Statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this news release are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, management’s expectations, intentions and beliefs concerning the growth, results of operations, performance of the Trust and the Partners, the future financial position or results of the Trust, business strategy and plans and objectives of or involving the Trust or the Partners. Many of these statements can be identified by looking for words such as “believe”, “expects”, “will”, “intends”, “projects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “continues” or similar words or the negative thereof. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements regarding: the anticipated financial and operating performance of the Partners; the attractiveness of Alaris’ capital offering; the Trust’s Run Rate Payout Ratio, Run Rate Cash Flow, Run Rate Revenue and total revenue; the impact of recent new investments and follow-on investments; expectations regarding receipt (and amount of) any common equity distributions or dividends from Partners in which Alaris holds common equity, including the impact on the Trust’s net cash from operating activities, Run Rate Revenue, Run Rate Cash Flow and Run Rate Payout Ratio; the impact of future deployment; the Trust’s ability to deploy capital; the yield on the Trust’s investments and expected resets on Distributions; changes in SOFR and exchange rates; the impact of deferred Distributions and the timing of repayment there of; the Trust’s return on its investments; and Alaris’ expenses for 2024. To the extent any forward-looking statements herein constitute a financial outlook or future oriented financial information (collectively, “FOFI”), including estimates regarding revenues, Distributions from Partners (restarting full or partial Distributions and common equity distributions), Run Rate Payout Ratio, Run Rate Cash Flow, net cash from operating activities, expenses and impact of capital deployment, they were approved by management as of the date hereof and have been included to provide an understanding with respect to Alaris’ financial performance and are subject to the same risks and assumptions disclosed herein. There can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which these forward-looking statements are based will occur.

    By their nature, forward-looking statements require Alaris to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian and U.S. economies over the next 24 months and how that will affect Alaris’ business and that of its Partners (including, without limitation, the impact of any global health crisis, like COVID-19, and global economic and political factors) are material factors considered by Alaris management when setting the outlook for Alaris. Key assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions that: the Russia/Ukraine conflict, conflicts in the Middle East, and other global economic pressures over the next twelve months will not materially impact Alaris, its Partners or the global economy; interest rates will not rise in a matter materially different from the prevailing market expectation over the next 12 months; global heath crises, like COVID-19 or variants thereof, will not impact the economy or our Partners operations in a material way in the next 12 months; the businesses of the majority of our Partners will continue to grow; more private companies will require access to alternative sources of capital; the businesses of new Partners and those of existing Partners will perform in line with Alaris’ expectations and diligence; and that Alaris will have the ability to raise required equity and/or debt financing on acceptable terms. Management of Alaris has also assumed that the Canadian and U.S. dollar trading pair will remain in a range of approximately plus or minus 15% of the current rate over the next 6 months. In determining expectations for economic growth, management of Alaris primarily considers historical economic data provided by the Canadian and U.S. governments and their agencies as well as prevailing economic conditions at the time of such determinations.

    There can be no assurance that the assumptions, plans, intentions or expectations upon which these forward-looking statements are based will occur. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and should not be read as guarantees or assurances of future performance. The actual results of the Trust and the Partners could materially differ from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of certain risk factors, including, but not limited to, the following: widespread health crises is, like COVID-19 (or its variants), other global economic factors (including, without limitation, the Russia/Ukraine conflict, conflicts in the Middle East, inflationary measures and global supply chain disruptions on the global economy, Trust and the Partners (including how many Partners will experience a slowdown of their business and the length of time of such slowdown)), the dependence of Alaris on the Partners, including any new investment structures; leverage and restrictive covenants under credit facilities; reliance on key personnel; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefit of Alaris’ financing arrangements with the Partners; a failure to obtain required regulatory approvals on a timely basis or at all; changes in legislation and regulations and the interpretations thereof; risks relating to the Partners and their businesses, including, without limitation, a material change in the operations of a Partner or the industries they operate in; inability to close additional Partner contributions or collect proceeds from any redemptions in a timely fashion on anticipated terms, or at all; a failure to settle outstanding litigation on expected terms, or at all; a change in the ability of the Partners to continue to pay Alaris at expected Distribution levels or restart distributions (in full or in part); a failure to collect material deferred Distributions; a change in the unaudited information provided to the Trust; and a failure to realize the benefits of any concessions or relief measures provided by Alaris to any Partner or to successfully execute an exit strategy for a Partner where desired. Additional risks that may cause actual results to vary from those indicated are discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” and “Forward Looking Statements” in Alaris’ Management Discussion and Analysis and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is or will be (in the case of the AIF) filed under Alaris’ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on its website at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of forward-looking statements, including FOFI, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, based on information in Alaris’ possession as of the date hereof, may prove to be imprecise. In addition, there are a number of factors that could cause Alaris’ actual results, performance or achievement to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, forward looking statements and FOFI, or if any of them do so occur, what benefits the Trust will derive therefrom. As such, undue reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements, including FOFI.

    The Trust has included the forward-looking statements and FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on Alaris’ future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The forward-looking statements, including FOFI, contained herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Alaris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust
    403-260-1457
    ir@alarisequity.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: STOCKHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Air Transport Services Group, Inc. – ATSG

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Air Transport Services Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATSG), relating to a proposed merger with Stonepeak Nile Parent LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, Air Transport Services Group shareholders will receive $22.50 per share of Air Transport Services Group Common Stock they own.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/air-transport-services-group-inc-atsg/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
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    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Adds UAH Into Its P2P Marketplace to Enhance User Experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  BitMart, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to announce that it has officially added the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) to its peer-to-peer (P2P) trading marketplace. This strategic addition underscores BitMart’s commitment to diversifying trading options and providing users with more convenient ways to manage cryptocurrency transactions.

    The integration of UAH into BitMart’s P2P marketplace reflects the growing demand for accessible and adaptable payment solutions. In a world where personal finance and digital asset management are evolving rapidly, the ability to transact in multiple currencies is crucial. By including UAH, BitMart ensures its users can benefit from a broader range of currency transactions, further simplifying deposits and withdrawals while maintaining high security standards and low entry barriers. BitMart’s UAH market also offers a competitive buy price, putting it ahead of other exchanges and providing users with a cost-effective option for trading UAH.

    In celebration of adding UAH to BitMart’s P2P Marketplace, BitMart launched the event “UAH Exclusive Event: Easy to Share 1000 USDT Rewards,” running until Nov. 18, 2024. To learn how to participate, please visit https://www.bitmart.com/activity/UAH-trading/en-US.
    For more information, please visit BitMart’s P2P Trading marketplace.

    About BitMart
    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,500+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit their Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: STOCKHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Profire Energy, Inc. – PFIE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Profire Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: PFIE), relating to a proposed merger with First CECO Environmental Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, a subsidiary of CECO will commence a tender offer to acquire all issued and outstanding shares of Profire common stock at a price of $2.55 per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/profire-energy-inc-pfie/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Republican Kimberlyn King-Hinds wins delegate race in CNMI

    By Mark Rabago, RNZ Pacific Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas correspondent

    Kimberlyn King-Hind, from the CNMI Republican Party, won the race for the CNMI’s lone non-voting delegate in the US House of Representatives on Tuesday.

    The delegate position was one of 61 races up for grabs in the 2024 CNMI general elections.

    The former Commonwealth Ports Authority chairwoman and lawyer from Tinian received 4931 votes (40.34 percent) of total ballots cast.

    Democratic Party of the Northern Mariana Islands’ candidate Edwin Propst finished second, 864 votes behind with 4067 (33.27 percent).

    Independent candidates John Oliver Gonzales, James Rayphand, and Liana Hofschneider gained 2282, 665, and 280 votes, respectively.

    Even before the results of the 2024 general elections were certified about 5.20am on Wednesday, Propst conceded defeat and congratulated King-Hinds in a social media post.

    “Congratulations to Kim King-Hinds, delegate-elect. I wish you the very best,” he wrote.

    “To my amazing committee, I cannot thank you enough for your hard work and support. To our supporters, thank you for your votes, messages of support, donations, and kindness. To Daisy and Kiana, Devin, Kaden, and Logan, I love you more than anything in this world. Thank you for always being there for me,” he added.

    Kimberlyn King-Hinds . . . congratulated by her Democratic opponent. Image: RNZ Pacific

    Other electoral results
    In other races, Senate President Edith DeLeon Guerrero, who ran as an independent, lost her Saipan seat to Representative Manny Castro of the Democratic Party, as the latter took 52.89 percent of the votes (5178) compared to the former’s 43 percent (4210).

    For Tinian, incumbent Senator Karl King-Nabors of the GOP ran unopposed and was elected in by 803 voters.

    Incumbent and longtime Senator Paul Manglona, meanwhile, lost his Senate post to fellow independent Ronnie Mendiola Calvo, 476-441.

    There was not much shakeup in the House of Representatives races, as only incumbent Vicente Camacho, a Democrat, among the incumbents lost his seat. Newcomers in the incoming lower house include Elias Rangamar, Daniel Aquino, and Raymond Palacios — all independents.

    Associate Judge Teresita Kim-Tenorio was also retained, receiving 9909 “yes” votes (84.21 percent) compared to 1858 (15.79 percent) “no” votes.

    The US territory also elected members of the CNMI Board of Education and councillors for the municipal councils for Saipan, the Northern Islands, Tinian, and Rota.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman arrested after Pooraka servo robbery

    Source: South Australia Police

    A woman was arrested after allegedly robbing a Pooraka service station yesterday morning.

    It will be alleged just before 7am on Tuesday 5 November, the woman entered the service station on Main North Road, Pooraka and demanded money.

    No weapon was sighted.

    The suspect left with cash, lollies and cigarettes.  There were no reported injuries.

    Following investigations, police arrested a 38-year-old Pooraka woman and charged her with aggravated robbery.  She was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today.

    CO2400044651

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: (WIP) Investing in WA: energy reforms in the Pilbara—unpacking the North-West Interconnected System

    Source: Allens Insights

    Decarbonising the Pilbara region 8 min read

    The North-West Interconnected System (NWIS) has become a central focus of the WA Government’s energy sector reform agenda in recent years. Since the introduction of the Pilbara Regime in July 2021, a series of additional reforms have been set in motion.

    These reforms reflect the WA Government’s recognition that decarbonisation of the Pilbara region is key to its net zero target. In line with this vision, Energy Policy WA (EPWA) has developed the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan (PET Plan), which invites private sector involvement in developing new, common-use transmission infrastructure, known as Priority Projects.

    In this Insight, we explore current and proposed reforms, highlighting opportunities for developers and investors to drive decarbonisation in the Pilbara region.

    Key takeaways

    • The pace of reforms to the NWIS has been rapid, with an ambitious policy agenda going forward.
    • The WA Government is strongly focused on decarbonising the Pilbara region, seeking to leverage significant Federal Government support.
    • The PET Plan, particularly Priority Projects, has the potential to significantly transform the NWIS and transmission infrastructure in the region. This presents opportunities for industrial load and heavy industry to decarbonise their operations and increase renewable energy consumption.
    • The proposed reforms to the NWIS present a key opportunity for development and investment in transmission infrastructure.  

    What is the NWIS?

    The NWIS consists of a series of interconnected electricity transmission, distribution and generation assets in the Pilbara region. It supplies major mining and heavy industrial customers, coastal towns such as Karratha and Port Hedland, and some remote communities. However, it should be noted that many industrial facilities and communities in the region rely on remote generation, such as stand-alone power systems and microgrids, which are not connected to the NWIS.

    The NWIS market does not operate through a central dispatch mechanism; rather, electricity is generated either for self-supply or contracted under bilateral agreements. There are three registered network service providers, APA, Horizon Power and Rio Tinto (NSPs), each operating a vertically integrated business, participating in electricity generation, supply, and in some cases provision of essential system services and retail supply. 

    Pilbara ISOCo Limited (Pilbara ISOCo) oversees NWIS operations as the independent system operator including administering the energy balancing and related settlement process. The role of Pilbara ISOCo reflects an administrative system operator model, designed to align with the ‘light-handed’ regulatory regime that applies to the NWIS. Under this model, Pilbara ISOCo performs a series of core functions, while the registered NSPs retain significant control over other system-related functions and operations, in contrast to other electricity networks in Australia such as the Wholesale Electricity Market and the National Electricity Market. The NSPs are also members of Pilbara ISOCo.

    How did we get here?

    Prior to July 2021, the NWIS operated primarily under informal or bilateral agreements between NSPs. It developed in a somewhat ad hoc manner, as energy companies and industrial facilities invested in generation for self-supply. There was no central planning or coordination framework—each NSP was generally responsible for functions such as system security on an autonomous basis, with no independent system operator in place.

    After a series of consultations on the potential for regulatory reform, the WA Government determined there was a need for a formal framework for the NWIS and subsequently announced the Pilbara Regime. The regime would consist of a suite of reforms aimed at addressing, among other things, access and more centrally coordinated system operations. These substantive reforms took effect on 1 July 2021.

    Pilbara Regime

    Key regulatory instruments

    Part 8A of the Electricity Industry Act 2004 (WA) (EIA) sets out the overarching framework for the Pilbara Regime. Amendments to the EIA were recently passed and, once in effect, the Pilbara electricity objective will expressly acknowledge the need to invest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions for electricity services.

    The Electricity Industry (Pilbara Networks) Regulations 2021 recognised Pilbara ISOCo as the independent system operator and allowed the Minister to establish the initial Pilbara Network Rules (PNR). The PNR, which includes the Harmonised Technical Rules (HTR), governs the operations of the NWIS, connection standards and approval processes, as well as system security and reliability measures. There have been two rule changes amending the PNR to date, and the Pilbara Advisory Committee (PAC)—which consists of industry representatives—advises the EPWA coordinator on rule change proposals.

    The HTR set out technical design and operation requirements for systems and equipment connected to the NWIS. Horizon Power, as a NSP, also has its own set of technical rules which apply to those who connect to its network.

    Pilbara ISOCo also develop procedures in accordance with the PNR which outline specific requirements for the processes set out in the PNR. The procedures are currently being developed on an interim basis and can be accessed here.

    The Pilbara Networks Access Code (PNAC) regulates access and connection to the NWIS by outlining the requirements for ‘covered’ networks, which are subject to rules on ringfencing, tariffs and access disputes. The PNAC was modelled on part of the National Gas Rules, which similarly include access provisions for pipelines. The Minister for Energy may decide a network is covered if a person makes an application or an NSP may opt in to become a covered network. Horizon Power and APA’s networks are covered under the PNAC and are required to publish access information as part of their obligations.

    Pilbara Roundtable

    The Pilbara Industry Roundtable (Roundtable) was formed by the WA Government in August 2022, with a broad membership from industry stakeholders in the NWIS and the Pilbara more generally.

    The Roundtable released a communiqué in July 2023, supporting the development of common-use transmission infrastructure to support the growth of renewable generation and decarbonisation. The Roundtable agreed that any new infrastructure should empower Traditional Owners and expressed their support for regulatory reform to the Pilbara Regime to ensure it remains fit-for-purpose during the energy transition.

    Where are we now?

    The consensus goals contained in the Roundtable communiqué form the basis of the PET Plan. The PET Plan aims to increase the scale of renewable generation in the region and facilitate the decarbonisation of the Pilbara to meet the WA Government’s net zero target. The WA Government has placed a strong emphasis on involving Traditional Owners and their communities in this process, including benefit sharing and minimising disturbance to country as the PET Plan is implemented.

    Priority Projects

    The flagship policy outlined in the PET Plan is the development of new, common-use transmission infrastructure, to be built in priority transmission corridors known as Priority Projects. On 13 September 2024, EPWA opened an expression of interest (EOI) process for developing Priority Projects in two corridors in East Pilbara (Hamersley Range and the Great Sandy Desert), and two corridors in West Pilbara (Burrup (Murujuga) and Chichester Range). Construction within these corridors aims to connect current and potential loads, such as strategic industrial areas, and to provide access to areas that will be favourable for future renewable energy projects connecting to the Priority Project. EPWA envisages that Priority Projects may form part of an expansion of the NWIS. The EOI deadline closed on 25 October 2024, and it is anticipated that the EOIs and ongoing regulatory reviews will help develop the design elements to facilitate the PET Plan, such as how charges for ‘wheeling’ electricity through various transmission assets will apply.

    In August 2023, the Federal Government committed $3 billion from the Rewiring the Nation fund to WA to assist in the investment in new and upgraded transmission infrastructure. Funding from Rewiring the Nation is provided as concessional finance from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. This may trigger significant reform and investment in both the NWIS and the South-West Interconnected System. The WA Government has made clear it will recommend Priority Projects for obtaining this funding, although this does not guarantee that Priority Projects will be successful in obtaining Rewiring the Nation funding.

    Where are we going?

    In April 2025, the Economic Regulation Authority (ERA) will commence its statutory review of the Pilbara Regime, which is required on the fifth anniversary of the Pilbara Regime coming into force (the Five-yearly Review). The aim of the Five-yearly Review is for the ERA to determine whether the Pilbara Regime is meeting the Pilbara electricity objective, which is being updated. If the ERA finds that the Pilbara electricity objective is not being met, it is to make recommendations for reform in its report, which is due no later than April 2026. The report is then laid before Parliament within six months of receipt by the Minister, who must prepare a response.

    EPWA is currently reviewing the PNR with the support of the Evolution of the Pilbara Networks Rules Working Group established by the PAC. The objective of the Evolution of the Pilbara Networks Rules review project (EPNR Project) is to ensure that the PNR and HTR effectively enable and facilitate the planned rapid decarbonisation of the Pilbara region, as well as the shift from thermal sources to renewable generation (ie solar and wind) and storage in the NWIS. EPWA has acknowledged that the reforms surrounding the regulatory regime create mixed signals for potential investors and, as such, has implemented a staggered approach to reviewing the PNR to support early investment decisions. EPWA and the PAC are proposing to present a final implementation plan in February 2025.

    The EOI for the PET Plan anticipates that changes to the PNAC will be progressed under sections 120H to 120J of the EIA to ensure the PNAC can support Priority Projects. The EOI flags a review of potential changes related to managing vertical integration, the priority regime for constrained versus unconstrained access and access price regulation. It is expected that EPWA will take the lead on this review and any proposed changes will need to be made available by the Minister for public comment.

    As the Pilbara regime contemplates coordination between the NSPs and between the NSPs and Pilbara ISOCo, Pilbara ISOCO sought ACCC authorisation for the parties to engage in this conduct. Currently, the regime is exempt from competition law requirements under the Electricity Industry (Pilbara Networks) Regulations 2021 (WA). This exemption expires in November 2024, and the ACCC authorisation is intended to apply beyond that expiry.

    The ACCC considered the public benefits associated with the Pilbara regime and the coordination between NSPs and Pilbara ISOCo to facilitate system security, outage coordination and technical connection standards functions. Within that consideration, the ACCC is balancing any potential public detriments, such as those arising from NSPs sharing information.

    In a Draft Determination released in September 2024, the ACCC proposed to grant authorisation for a three-year period, subject to conditions to limit the scope of coordination and information sharing and enhance governance controls. The ACCC’s final determination is due by 20 December 2024, following further consultation. The ACCC process has acknowledged the ongoing reform process underway—including the EPNR Project—noting that a three-year authorisation should provide sufficient time for that reform process to take place.

    Key considerations

    • Access, approvals and operational constraints applying to the NWIS remain challenging when developing new projects. However, there is political support for removing these barriers, so developers should stay informed about the latest updates.
    • The infrastructure investment required for achieving the energy transition presents opportunities for developers, Traditional Owners, the local workforce and local contractors.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Make the most of managing your medical, food, cash and child care benefits

    Source: US State of Oregon

    ealth insurance open enrollment starts Nov. 1, 2024. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is expecting an increase in calls to our ONE Customer Service Center (800-699-9075). This may mean longer wait times. We know this can be frustrating, but we want you to know that there are several ways to make getting assistance with your benefits easier and faster. Here are some tips that you can use during open enrollment and year-round:

    1. Download the Oregon ONE Mobile app

    With the Oregon ONE Mobile app, you can manage your benefits on the go, including checking messages, application status, and more. And the best part? It’s free! Find download links at benefits.oregon.gov and handle most of your benefit needs from your smartphone.

    2. Check your application status online or in-app

    If you need to know the status of your application for medical, food, cash, or child care benefits, you don’t have to wait on hold. Simply log into your ONE Online account at benefits.oregon.gov or check the Oregon ONE Mobile app. Remember – each household only needs one application, so check your household’s application status instead of submitting another!

    3. Having tech troubles?

    We have a dedicated tech support line – so no need to wait in the ONE Customer Service Center line. Call 833-978-1073 to get help quickly. They are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time.

    4. Find an office near you

    Prefer face-to-face assistance? ODHS has local offices across Oregon, and our staff is ready to help you with benefit questions. You can find the office closest to you by visiting bit.ly/ODHSoffices.

    5. Gather your documents in advance

    Before you apply, make sure to have documents ready to verify your income, expenses, and other household details. This helps speed up the application process! Some situations may require additional documents like ID, citizenship (U.S. citizens) or immigration status (non-U.S. citizens). Check out this checklist for more information about what documents you may need.

    6. Try calling in the morning

    While we expect the ONE Customer Service Center (800-699-9075) to be busy during open enrollment, in general, call wait times are lowest between 7 and 8 a.m. Pacific Time.

    7. Stay on top of your messages

    You may receive messages about your benefits that need your prompt attention. Read and respond to these messages through your ONE Online account or on the Oregon ONE Mobile app to stay up-to-date. Having trouble viewing messages? Update Adobe Reader or Acrobat, or call tech support at 833-978-1073 if you need further assistance.

    8. Providing proof of benefits

    Need to show proof of your benefits? No need to call in! You can access eligibility notices in your ONE Online account or through the Oregon ONE Mobile app’s Message Center.

    9. Lost or stolen Oregon Trail (EBT) Card?

    If you lose your EBT card, report it immediately. Call 855-328-6715 during business hours (Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time) to cancel and request a new card. Outside business hours, call 888-997-4447 to freeze your account and protect your benefits 24/7.

    Navigating benefits can be stressful. But hopefully by following these tips, you can get the assistance you need efficiently – even during high call volume times. Visit benefits.oregon.gov for more information and to explore all your options.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: How does a jury reach a conclusion? A new SBS show painstakingly recreates details to take us behind the scenes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Xanthe Mallett, Forensic Criminologist, University of Newcastle

    SBS

    Juries are the bedrock of common law, and have been used for centuries to decide factual issues before the court.

    Jury research has for years attempted to improve our understanding of how jurors reach a conclusion, both individually and as a collective. But we have very little understanding of how each specific case is decided: in Australia, jurors are banned from discussing their deliberations outside of the jury room.

    Predicting the jury’s decision in criminal matters is impossible: the whole system remains totally opaque. This has been evident in a very high-profile case just this year, when a very surprising decision was handed down; I would love to be able to pick that one apart.

    A new show by SBS attempts to demystify the process. The Jury: Death on the Staircase follows the deliberations of 12 jurors as they listen to nine days’ worth of evidence in a real, concluded manslaughter case.

    Observing the trial, and the jury

    The names, dates, locations and images from the original case have been changed to make sure the jurors could not look up the result, and to protect the individuals involved in the real trial. These changes could, of course, alter the jury’s decision-making process.

    Actors are used to re-enact the trial, using transcripts of the original case to simulate the real trial as closely as possible. The jurors are everyday Australians who volunteered to take part in this experiment.

    The case revolves around the death of a man who was found at the bottom of a staircase, in the home he shared with his male partner.

    Other factors the jury attaches relevance to are the 20-year age gap between the deceased and the younger accused man, and the accused is Asian.

    We hear the pre-trial thoughts and motivations of the jurors, and some of the biases and prejudices start to show early on.

    As the trial unfolds, specific aspects of the accused’s personality impress different members of the jury – some finding points of commonality that encourage them to be very sympathetic, others highly sceptical of his innocence. This seems less based on the evidence being heard, and instead reflects directly the personality and life experience of the juror.

    The jurors, like a real jury, come from all walks of life, educational backgrounds, sexualities and ancestral groups. There are some big, dominant voices, as well as others who are much quieter and more circumspect.

    What surprised me while watching was that many of the impressions the jury discuss – and their interpretations of them – aren’t based on the evidence at all. They’re watching the accused, trying to get a read on his guilt or innocence from his body language, where he looks at certain times.

    None of them are body language experts, but they seem to think they can reliably extrapolate how he is feeling from observing him.

    Some of them also speculate wildly as to what could have happened, and why.
    If that’s what real jurors do, that’s worrying.

    I have some questions

    It’s hard to know how closely the producers mirrored the original case: was it a homosexual relationship, was there a large age gap, was the accused Asian?

    These factors are important, because the jury puts weight on them and hypothesises with these in mind.

    Another big question for me was how they chose the members of the jury. Was it random? If it was, they do not reflect the personalities of the original jurors and it is very clear that personality and life experience were heavily influential in each person’s response to the case.

    The question was asked by one of the jurors: what if they reach a different conclusion than the original, genuine jury? What would that mean for the accused?

    My sense was they were wondering if they found him not guilty of manslaughter, would that have any legal implication.

    The answer is no.

    It’s impossible to truly replicate a case. I would even suggest the same jury could reach a different conclusion at a different time, depending on what had happened in their lives recently and other external factors. Regardless of what result this jury reached, it could not hurt or help the real accused person.

    But it is certainly an interesting program, and will give the viewer an insight into what factors most influence jurors.

    It might also scare them slightly. We like to think juries make their decision based on the evidence put before them, but that does not appear to be the case, at least certainly not early on in the trial process.

    The jurors focused on how the accused lived their life, and judged him accordingly – both positively and negatively. The scientist in me feels that it would be great to repeat this experience, to see if the same or a different result was achieved under these, somewhat controlled conditions.

    I’d also love to see more access to real jurors, post decision: that is the only true way to gauge their thoughts and impressions as they work through a case. But as that is unlikely, this series is as close as we’ll get. It is worth a watch if you’re interested in how juries reach their – sometimes apparently inexplicable – decisions.

    The Jury: Death on the Staircase is on SBS and SBS On Demand from today.

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

    ref. How does a jury reach a conclusion? A new SBS show painstakingly recreates details to take us behind the scenes – https://theconversation.com/how-does-a-jury-reach-a-conclusion-a-new-sbs-show-painstakingly-recreates-details-to-take-us-behind-the-scenes-242114

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI: Parex Resources Announces Third Quarter Results, Declaration of Q4 2024 Dividend, and Operational Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Parex Resources Inc. (“Parex” or the “Company”) (TSX: PXT) is pleased to announce its financial and operating results for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024, the declaration of its Q4 2024 regular dividend of C$0.385 per share, as well as an operational update. All amounts herein are in United States Dollars (“USD”) unless otherwise stated.

    “Following lower than expected results, Management is focused on driving production efficiency and optimizing performance from our key assets,” commented Imad Mohsen, President & Chief Executive Officer.

    “As we transition from 2024 to our 2025 planning phase, we are committed to improving results, delivering safe and reliable production, and positioning Parex to outperform.”

    Key Highlights

    • Generated Q3 2024 funds flow provided by operations (“FFO”)(1) of $152 million and FFO per share(2)(3) of $1.50.
    • FY 2024 average production guidance increased from 48,000-50,000 boe/d to 49,000-50,000 boe/d, based on stable operations at key assets as well as successful well results at Capachos and LLA-32.
    • FY 2024 capital expenditure(6) guidance updated from $370-390 million to $350-370 million, based on a conservative capital program focused on improving capital returns.
    • Declared Q4 2024 regular dividend of C$0.385 per share(4) or C$1.54 per share annualized.
    • Repurchased approximately 4.5 million shares YTD 2024 under the Company’s current normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”).
    • October 2024 average production was 47,000 boe/d(5).

    Q3 2024 Results

    • Quarterly average oil & natural gas production was 47,569 boe/d(7).
    • Realized net income of $66 million or $0.65 per share basic(3).
    • Generated quarterly FFO(1) of $152 million and FFO per share(2)(3) of $1.50, a 4% decrease and a 1% increase from Q3 2023, respectively.
    • Current taxes decreased from Q2 2024 by $39 million due to reduced corporate production as well as lower global oil prices; the Company also moved from an estimated 15% surtax to a projected 10% surtax with the depreciation of Brent oil price in the quarter.
    • Produced an operating netback(2) of $39.64/boe and an FFO netback(2) of $34.58/boe from an average Brent price of $78.71/bbl.
    • Incurred $82 million of capital expenditures(6), primarily from activities at LLA-34, Capachos, LLA-32 and LLA-122.
    • Generated $69 million of free funds flow(6) that was used for return of capital initiatives and $20 million of bank debt repayment; working capital surplus(1) was $38 million and cash $147 million at quarter end.
    • Paid a C$0.385 per share(4) regular quarterly dividend and repurchased 1,584,650 shares.

    (1) Capital management measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (2) Non-GAAP ratio. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (3) Per share amounts (with the exception of dividends) are based on weighted-average common shares; dividends paid per share are based on the number of common shares outstanding at each dividend date.
    (4) Supplementary financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (5) Light & medium crude oil: ~8,956 bbl/d, heavy crude oil: ~37,325 bbl/d, conventional natural gas: ~4,316 mcf/d; rounded for presentation purposes.
    (6) Non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory.”
    (7) See “Operational and Financial Highlights” for a breakdown of production by product type.

    Operational and Financial Highlights Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended  
    (unaudited) Sep. 30,   Sep. 30,   Jun. 30,   Sep. 30,  
      2024   2023   2024   2024  
    Operational        
    Average daily production        
    Light Crude Oil and Medium Crude Oil (bbl/d) 9,064   8,837   9,541   8,615  
    Heavy Crude Oil (bbl/d) 37,777   44,779   43,229   42,167  
    Crude Oil (bbl/d) 46,841   53,616   52,770   50,782  
    Conventional Natural Gas (mcf/d) 4,368   5,742   4,788   4,170  
    Oil & Gas (boe/d)(1) 47,569   54,573   53,568   51,477  
             
    Operating netback ($/boe)        
    Reference price – Brent ($/bbl) 78.71   85.92   85.03   81.82  
    Oil & gas sales(4) 68.75   75.83   75.21   71.69  
    Royalties(4) (10.59 ) (13.72 ) (12.54 ) (11.48 )
    Net revenue(4) 58.16   62.11   62.67   60.21  
    Production expense(4) (14.81 ) (9.73 ) (12.95 ) (13.43 )
    Transportation expense(4) (3.71 ) (3.56 ) (3.40 ) (3.50 )
    Operating netback ($/boe)(2) 39.64   48.82   46.32   43.28  
             
    Funds flow provided by operations netback ($/boe)(2) 34.58   31.28   37.34   34.43  
             
    Financial ($000s except per share amounts)        
             
    Net income 65,793   119,736   3,845   129,731  
    Per share – basic(6) 0.65   1.13   0.04   1.27  
             
    Funds flow provided by operations(5) 151,773   157,839   180,952   481,032  
    Per share – basic(2)(6) 1.50   1.49   1.77   4.71  
             
    Capital expenditures(3) 82,367   156,747   97,797   265,585  
             
    Free funds flow(3) 69,406   1,092   83,155   215,447  
             
    EBITDA(3) 167,763   221,271   195,940   555,781  
    Adjusted EBITDA(3) 164,002   225,784   230,547   582,777  
             
    Long-term inventory expenditures (6,318 ) (374 ) 9,817   7,342  
             
    Dividends paid 28,467   29,239   28,528   85,526  
    Per share – Cdn$(4) 0.385   0.375   0.385   1.145  
             
    Shares repurchased 20,723   24,273   21,367   57,381  
    Number of shares repurchased (000s) 1,585   1,240   1,298   3,803  
             
    Outstanding shares (end of period) (000s)        
    Basic 100,031   105,014   101,616   100,031  
    Weighted average basic 100,891   105,621   102,259   102,203  
    Diluted(8) 100,933   105,722   102,528   100,933  
             
    Working capital surplus (deficit)(5) 37,509   (57,511 ) 34,156   37,509  
    Bank debt(7) 30,000     50,000   30,000  
    Cash 147,454   34,548   119,468   147,454  

    (1) Reference to crude oil or natural gas in the above table and elsewhere in this press release refer to the light and medium crude oil and heavy crude oil and conventional natural gas, respectively, product types as defined in National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities.
    (2) Non-GAAP ratio. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (3) Non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (4) Supplementary financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (5) Capital management measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (6) Per share amounts (with the exception of dividends) are based on weighted average common shares. Dividends paid per share are based on the number of common shares outstanding at each dividend record date.
    (7) Syndicated bank credit facility borrowing base of $200.0 million as at September 30, 2024.
    (8) Diluted shares as stated include common shares and stock options outstanding at period end; September 30, 2024 closing price was C$12.00 per share.

    Operational Update

    2024 Corporate Guidance Update

    FY 2024 average production guidance has been updated to 49,000 to 50,000 boe/d (49,500 boe/d midpoint) and concurrently, capital expenditure(5) guidance for the year has been updated to $350 to $370 million ($360 million midpoint).

    At $80/bbl Brent crude oil price, funds flow provided by operations(4) is expected to be $575 to $585 million and generate roughly $220 million of free funds flow(5) at the midpoint of guidance. A key driver of the funds flow provided by operations increase from the prior updated guidance is a lower projected effective tax rate for FY 2024.

    Category 2024 Updated Guidance
    (August 28, 2024)
    2024 Updated Guidance
    (November 5, 2024)
    Brent Crude Oil Average Price $80/bbl $80/bbl
    Average Production 48,000-50,000 boe/d 49,000-50,000 boe/d
    Funds Flow Provided by Operations Netback(1)(2)(3) $30-32/boe $31-33/boe
    Funds Flow Provided by Operations(4) $545-565 million $575-585 million
    Capital Expenditures(5) $370-390 million $350-370 million
    Free Funds Flow(5) $175 million (midpoint) $220 million (midpoint)

    (1) Non-GAAP ratio. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (2) 2024 updated assumptions: Vasconia differential: ~$4/bbl; production expense: $13-14/bbl; transportation expense: ~$3.50/bbl; G&A expense: ~$4.00/bbl; effective tax rate: 14-17%.
    (3) Supplementary financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (4) Capital management measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.
    (5) Non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory”.

    Cabrestero and LLA-34(1)(2)

    The Cabrestero and LLA-34 blocks had average production of approximately 37,000 bbl/d of heavy crude oil (net) combined in Q3 2024. During the quarter, both blocks experienced higher-than-expected downtime that adversely affected quarterly production.

    Additionally, at both blocks, annual decline rates are broadly in line with Management budgeting where there is a continued focus on ramping up injection rates. At Cabrestero specifically, the Company continues to progress its polymer injection pilot and is moving towards approving a full field expansion based on success to date.

    (1) Cabrestero: 100% W.I.
    (2) LLA-34: 55% W.I.

    LLA-32 – Exploitation Update(1)

    Following the mid-year reallocation of 2024 capital to LLA-32, the Company has now drilled three successful wells on the block. The most recent well, the second follow-up appraisal well, is producing roughly 2,000 bbl/d of light crude oil (gross)(2). Based on success to date, Parex is continuing to invest capital and has spud a horizontal well.

    (1) 87.5% W.I.
    (2) Short-term production rate. See “Oil & Gas Matters Advisory.”

    Northern Llanos – Capachos Update(1)

    The first well of a three-well campaign came online in late Q3 2024. The well is currently producing roughly 4,000 bbl/d of light crude oil with approximately 6,000 mcf/d of natural gas (gross)(2).

    Parex plans to fulfill an exploration commitment and spud the second well of the campaign in the coming weeks.

    (1) 50% W.I.
    (2) Short-term production rate. See “Oil & Gas Matters Advisory.”

    Northern Llanos – Arauca(1)

    The Arauca-81 well is expected to be onstream in Q4 2024, following a successful operational sidetrack.

    (1) Business Collaboration Agreement with Ecopetrol S.A. (Parex 50% Participating Share); Ecopetrol S.A. currently holds 100% of the working interest in the Convenio Arauca while the assignment procedure is pending.

    Big ‘E’ Exploration – Llanos Foothills – LLA-122(1)

    The drilling of the Arantes well in the high-potential Colombian Foothills continues to progress on an extended timeline. In Q3 2024, an operational sidetrack was executed following a stuck pipe event; the sidetrack was successful, and the well is now at roughly 17,750 feet. Parex is progressing toward the setting of the final liner immediately above the zones of interest, prior to drilling and evaluating the prospective zones. Based on the current pace of operations, the Company expects preliminary results by YE 2024.

    (1) 50% W.I.

    Return of Capital Update

    Q4 2024 Dividend

    Parex’s Board of Directors have approved a Q4 2024 regular dividend of C$0.385 per share to shareholders of record on December 9, 2024, to be paid on December 16, 2024. This regular dividend payment to shareholders is designated as an “eligible dividend” for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    Current Normal Course Issuer Bid

    As at October 31, 2024, Parex has repurchased approximately 4.5 million shares under its current NCIB, for total consideration of roughly C$85 million.

    2025 Budget & Guidance

    The Company continues to assess its short- and long-term development and exploration opportunities as it progresses through its 2025 budgeting and planning process, with next year’s corporate guidance expected to be released in January 2025.

    Q3 2024 Results – Conference Call & Webcast

    Parex will host a conference call and webcast to discuss its Q3 2024 results on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, beginning at 9:30 am MT (11:30 am ET). To participate in the conference call or webcast, please see the access information below:

    Conference ID:   7102953
    Participant Toll-Free Dial-In Number   1-646-307-1963
    Participant Dial-In Number:   1-647-932-3411
    Webcast:   https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/321063614
         

    About Parex Resources Inc.

    Parex is one of the largest independent oil and gas companies in Colombia, focusing on sustainable conventional production. The Company’s corporate headquarters are in Calgary, Canada, with an operating office in Bogotá, Colombia. Parex shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PXT.

    For more information, please contact:

    Mike Kruchten
    Senior Vice President, Capital Markets & Corporate Planning
    Parex Resources Inc.
    403-517-1733
    investor.relations@parexresources.com

    Steven Eirich
    Investor Relations & Communications Advisor
    Parex Resources Inc.
    587-293-3286
    investor.relations@parexresources.com

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Advisory

    This press release uses various “non-GAAP financial measures”, “non-GAAP ratios”, “supplementary financial measures” and “capital management measures” (as such terms are defined in NI 52-112), which are described in further detail below. Such measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and might not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable GAAP measures as indicators of Parex’s performance.

    These measures facilitate management’s comparisons to the Company’s historical operating results in assessing its results and strategic and operational decision-making and may be used by financial analysts and others in the oil and natural gas industry to evaluate the Company’s performance. Further, management believes that such financial measures are useful supplemental information to analyze operating performance and provide an indication of the results generated by the Company’s principal business activities.

    Set forth below is a description of the non-GAAP financial measures, non-GAAP ratios, supplementary financial measures and capital management measures used in this press release.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Capital expenditures, is a non-GAAP financial measure which the Company uses to describe its capital costs associated with oil and gas expenditures. The measure considers both property, plant and equipment expenditures and exploration and evaluation asset expenditures which are items in the Company’s statement of cash flows for the period and is calculated as follows:

     
      For the three months ended       For the nine months ended  
      Sep. 30,     Sep. 30,   Jun. 30,       Sep. 30,  
    ($000s)   2024       2023     2024       2024  
    Property, plant and equipment expenditures $ 68,406     $ 93,957   $ 49,214     $ 158,451  
    Exploration and evaluation expenditures   13,961       62,790     48,583       107,134  
    Capital expenditures $ 82,367     $ 156,747   $ 97,797     $ 265,585  


    Free funds flow,
    is a non-GAAP financial measure that is determined by funds flow provided by operations less capital expenditures. The Company considers free funds flow to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s ability to fund return of capital, such as the NCIB and dividends, without accessing outside funds and is calculated as follows:

     
      For the three months ended     For the nine months ended  
        Sep. 30,     Sep. 30,     Jun. 30,       Sep. 30,  
    ($000s)   2024       2023     2024       2024  
    Cash provided by operating activities $ 181,874     $ 87,568   $ 222,782     $ 502,068  
    Net change in non-cash working capital   (30,101 )     70,271     (41,830 )     (21,036 )
    Funds flow provided by operations   151,773       157,839     180,952       481,032  
    Capital expenditures   82,367       156,747     97,797       265,585  
    Free funds flow $ 69,406     $ 1,092   $ 83,155     $ 215,447  


    EBITDA
    , is a non-GAAP financial measure that is defined as net income adjusted for finance income and expenses, income tax expense (recovery) and depletion, depreciation and amortization.

    Adjusted EBITDA, is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as EBITDA adjusted for non-cash impairment charges, unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses), unrealized gains (losses) on risk management contracts and share-based compensation expense (recovery).

    The Company considers EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to be key measures as they demonstrates Parex’s profitability before finance income and expenses, taxes, depletion, depreciation and amortization and other non-cash items. A reconciliation from net income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is as follows:

     
      For the three months ended     For the nine months ended  
        Sep. 30,       Sep. 30,       Jun. 30,       Sep. 30,  
    ($000s)   2024       2023       2024       2024  
    Net income $ 65,793     $ 119,736     $ 3,845     $ 129,731  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to EBITDA:              
    Finance income   (963 )     (2,496 )     (1,097 )     (3,317 )
    Finance expense   7,494       5,219       5,421       18,109  
    Income tax expense   42,767       49,995       130,888       249,472  
    Depletion, depreciation and amortization   52,672       48,817       56,883       161,786  
    EBITDA $ 167,763     $ 221,271     $ 195,940     $ 555,781  
    Non-cash impairment charges         2,189       4,661       4,661  
    Share-based compensation expense (recovery)   (7,994 )     4,642       5,770       (4,687 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain)   4,233       (2,318 )     24,176       27,022  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 164,002     $ 225,784     $ 230,547     $ 582,777  


    Non-GAAP Ratios

    Operating netback per boe, is a non-GAAP ratio that the Company considers to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’ profitability relative to current commodity prices. Parex calculates operating netback per boe as operating netback (calculated as oil and natural gas sales from production, less royalties, operating, and transportation expense) divided by the total equivalent sales volume including purchased oil volumes for oil and natural gas sales price and transportation expense per boe and by the total equivalent sales volume excluding purchased oil volumes for royalties and operating expense per boe.

    Funds flow provided by operations netback per boe or FFO netback per boe, is a non-GAAP ratio that includes all cash generated from operating activities and is calculated before changes in non-cash working capital, divided by produced oil and natural gas sales volumes. The Company considers funds flow provided by operations netback per boe to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s profitability after all cash costs relative to current commodity prices.

    Basic funds flow provided by operations per share or FFO per share, is a non-GAAP ratio that is calculated by dividing funds flow provided by operations by the weighted average number of basic shares outstanding. Parex presents basic funds flow provided by operations per share whereby per share amounts are calculated using weighted-average shares outstanding, consistent with the calculation of earnings per share. The Company considers basic funds flow provided by operations per share or FFO per share to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s profitability after all cash costs relative to the weighted average number of basic shares outstanding.

    Capital Management Measures

    Funds flow provided by operations, is a capital management measure that includes all cash generated from operating activities and is calculated before changes in non-cash working capital. The Company considers funds flow provided by operations to be a key measure as it demonstrates Parex’s profitability after all cash costs. A reconciliation from cash provided by operating activities to funds flow provided by operations is as follows:

     
      For the three months ended     For the nine months ended  
        Sep. 30,     Sep. 30,     Jun. 30,       Sep. 30,  
    ($000s)   2024       2023     2024       2024  
    Cash provided by operating activities $ 181,874     $ 87,568   $ 222,782     $ 502,068  
    Net change in non-cash working capital   (30,101 )     70,271     (41,830 )     (21,036 )
    Funds flow provided by operations $ 151,773     $ 157,839   $ 180,952     $ 481,032  


    Working capital surplus (deficit),
    is a capital management measure which the Company uses to describe its liquidity position and ability to meet its short-term liabilities. Working capital surplus (deficit) defined as current assets less current liabilities.

     
      For the three months ended     For the nine months ended  
      Sep. 30,       Sep. 30,     Jun. 30,     Sep. 30,  
    ($000s)   2024       2023       2024     2024  
    Current assets $ 248,208     $ 240,559     $ 281,846   $ 248,208  
    Current liabilities   210,699       298,070       247,690     210,699  
    Working capital surplus (deficit) $ 37,509     $ (57,511 )   $ 34,156   $ 37,509  


    Supplementary Financial Measures

    “Oil and natural gas sales per boe” is determined by sales revenue excluding risk management contracts, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by total equivalent sales volume including purchased oil volumes.

    “Royalties per boe” is comprised of royalties, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volume and excludes purchased oil volumes.

    “Net revenue per boe” is comprised of net revenue, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volume and excludes purchased oil volumes.

    “Production expense per boe” is comprised of production expense, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volume and excludes purchased oil volumes.

    “Transportation expense per boe” is comprised of transportation expense, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the total equivalent sales volumes including purchased oil volumes.

    “Dividends paid per share” is comprised of dividends declared, as determined in accordance with IFRS, divided by the number of shares outstanding at the dividend record date.

    Oil & Gas Matters Advisory

    The term “Boe” means a barrel of oil equivalent on the basis of 6 Mcf of natural gas to 1 barrel of oil (“bbl”). Boe’s may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversation ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 Bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6 Mcf: 1Bbl, utilizing a conversion ratio at 6 Mcf: 1 Bbl may be misleading as an indication of value.

    This press release contains a number of oil and gas metrics, including, operating netbacks and FFO netbacks. These oil and gas metrics have been prepared by management and do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies and should not be used to make comparisons. Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods and therefore such metrics should not be unduly relied upon. Management uses these oil and gas metrics for its own performance measurements and to provide security holders with measures to compare the Company’s operations over time. Readers are cautioned that the information provided by these metrics, or that can be derived from the metrics presented in this news release, should not be relied upon for investment or other purposes.

    Any reference in this press release to short-term production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons, however such rates are not determination of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter and readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production of Parex.

    Distribution Advisory

    The Company’s future shareholder distributions, including but not limited to the payment of dividends and the acquisition by the Company of its shares pursuant to an NCIB, if any, and the level thereof is uncertain. Any decision to pay further dividends on the common shares (including the actual amount, the declaration date, the record date and the payment date in connection therewith and any special dividends) or acquire shares of the Company will be subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors of Parex and may depend on a variety of factors, including, without limitation the Company’s business performance, financial condition, financial requirements, growth plans, expected capital requirements and other conditions existing at such future time including, without limitation, contractual restrictions and satisfaction of the solvency tests imposed on the Company under applicable corporate law. Further, the actual amount, the declaration date, the record date and the payment date of any dividend are subject to the discretion of the Board. There can be no assurance that the Company will pay dividends or repurchase any shares of the Company in the future.

    Advisory on Forward Looking Statements

    Certain information regarding Parex set forth in this document contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The use of any of the words “plan”, “expect”, “prospective”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “should”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “guidance”, “budget” or other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements represent Parex’s internal projections, estimates or beliefs concerning, among other things, future growth, results of operations, production, future capital and other expenditures (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof), competitive advantages, plans for and results of drilling activity, environmental matters, business prospects and opportunities. These statements are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. Although the Company’s management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievement since such expectations are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors could cause Parex’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Parex.

    In particular, forward-looking statements contained in this document include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the Company’s focus, plans, priorities and strategies; average production guidance and capital expenditure guidance; expectations and plans regarding the Cabrestero and LLA-34 blocks, the LLA-32 block, Northern Llanos – Capachos, the Arauca-81 well, and Llanos Foothills – LLA-122; the anticipated terms of the Company’s Q4 2024 regular quarterly dividend, including its expectation that it will be designated as an “eligible dividend”; and the anticipated date and time of Parex’s conference call to discuss Q3 2024 results.

    These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions in Canada and Colombia; prolonged volatility in commodity prices; industry conditions including changes in laws and regulations including adoption of new environmental laws and regulations, and changes in how they are interpreted and enforced in Canada and Colombia; determinations by OPEC and other countries as to production levels; competition; lack of availability of qualified personnel; the results of exploration and development drilling and related activities; obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities in Canada and Colombia; the risks associated with negotiating with foreign governments as well as country risk associated with conducting international activities; volatility in market prices for oil; fluctuations in foreign exchange or interest rates; environmental risks; changes in income tax laws or changes in tax laws and incentive programs relating to the oil industry; changes to pipeline capacity; ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure of counterparties to perform under contracts; the risk that Brent oil prices may be lower than anticipated; the risk that Parex’s evaluation of its existing portfolio of development and exploration opportunities may not be consistent with its expectations; the risk that Parex may not have sufficient financial resources in the future to provide distributions to its shareholders; the risk that the Board may not declare dividends in the future or that Parex’s dividend policy changes; the risk that Parex may not be responsive to changes in commodity prices; the risk that Parex may not meet its production guidance for the year ended December 31, 2024; the risk that Parex’s 2024 capital expenditures may be greater than anticipated; the risk that plans and expectations related to Parex’s drilling program as disclosed herein do not materialize as expected and/or at all; the risk that Parex may not be able to increase production into year end; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company.

    Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors that could affect Parex’s operations and financial results are included in reports on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca).

    Although the forward-looking statements contained in this document are based upon assumptions which Management believes to be reasonable, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this document, Parex has made assumptions regarding, among other things: current and anticipated commodity prices and royalty regimes; availability of skilled labour; timing and amount of capital expenditures; future exchange rates; the price of oil, including the anticipated Brent oil price; the impact of increasing competition; conditions in general economic and financial markets; availability of drilling and related equipment; effects of regulation by governmental agencies; receipt of partner, regulatory and community approvals; royalty rates; future operating costs; uninterrupted access to areas of Parex’s operations and infrastructure; recoverability of reserves and future production rates; the status of litigation; timing of drilling and completion of wells; on-stream timing of production from successful exploration wells; operational performance of non-operated producing fields; pipeline capacity; that Parex will have sufficient cash flow, debt or equity sources or other financial resources required to fund its capital and operating expenditures and requirements as needed; that Parex’s conduct and results of operations will be consistent with its expectations; that Parex will have the ability to develop its oil and gas properties in the manner currently contemplated; that Parex’s evaluation of its existing portfolio of development and exploration opportunities is consistent with its expectations; current or, where applicable, proposed industry conditions, laws and regulations will continue in effect or as anticipated as described herein; that the estimates of Parex’s production and reserves volumes and the assumptions related thereto (including commodity prices and development costs) are accurate in all material respects; that Parex will be able to obtain contract extensions or fulfill the contractual obligations required to retain its rights to explore, develop and exploit any of its undeveloped properties; that Parex will have sufficient financial resources to pay dividends and acquire shares pursuant to its NCIB in the future; that Parex is able to execute its plans with respect to the Company’s drilling program as disclosed herein; and other matters.

    Management has included the above summary of assumptions and risks related to forward-looking information provided in this document in order to provide shareholders with a more complete perspective on Parex’s current and future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Parex’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits Parex will derive. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this document and Parex disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

    This press release contains information that may be considered a financial outlook under applicable securities laws about the Company’s potential financial position, including, but not limited to; Parex’s FY 2024 capital expenditure guidance and midpoint capital expenditure guidance; Parex 2024 guidance, including anticipated Brent crude oil average prices, funds flow provided by operations netback; funds flow provided by operations, capital expenditures, free funds flow; and the anticipated terms of the Company’s Q4 2024 regular quarterly dividend including its expectation that it will be designated as an “eligible dividend”, all of which are subject to numerous assumptions, risk factors, limitations and qualifications, including those set forth in the above paragraphs. The actual results of operations of the Company and the resulting financial results will vary from the amounts set forth in this press release and such variations may be material. This information has been provided for illustration only and with respect to future periods are based on budgets and forecasts that are speculative and are subject to a variety of contingencies and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Accordingly, these estimates are not to be relied upon as indicative of future results. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such financial outlook. The financial outlook contained in this press release was made as of the date of this press release and was provided for the purpose of providing further information about the Company’s potential future business operations. Readers are cautioned that the financial outlook contained in this press release is not conclusive and is subject to change.

    The following abbreviations used in this press release have the meanings set forth below:

    bbl   one barrel
    bbls   barrels
    bbl/d   barrels per day
    boe   barrels of oil equivalent of natural gas; one barrel of oil or natural gas liquids for six thousand cubic feet of natural gas
    boe/d   barrels of oil equivalent of natural gas per day
    mcf   thousand cubic feet
    mcf/d   thousand cubic feet per day
    W.I.   working interest
     

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/036d688c-0a1e-4b88-a59e-ea8a6ec811a7

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: CEO Hwang Kyu-jin of Ionpolis Co., Ltd. Targets the Southeast Asian Market by Participating in K-Expo

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEOUL, KOREA, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ionpolis Co., Ltd., a company specializing in filter showerheads, will participate in the K-Expo held from November 14th to 17th at the Sheraton Grand Gandaria City Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia. This expo is an important event aimed at promoting excellent Korean products and technologies worldwide and facilitating entry into global markets. It is particularly regarded as an opportunity for Korean companies to solidify their position in the Southeast Asian market.

    Ionpolis, a company specializing in filter showerheads that provide clean water and a healthy shower environment, plans to actively target the Southeast Asian market through this expo. CEO Hwang kyu-jin stated, “Consumers across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, are showing increased interest in healthy water. Therefore, we expect the demand for filter showerheads to steadily expand.” He emphasized that this expo will be a crucial opportunity to widely promote Ionpolis’s technological prowess to the world and strengthen networks with local partners.

    At this expo, Ionpolis plans to exhibit various filter showerhead products. In particular, they intend to showcase their latest product lineup that reflects diverse consumer needs. Ionpolis’s filter showerheads are gaining significant attention for their ability to effectively remove harmful substances that may be present in tap water during showers. Notably, CEO Hwang kyu-jin emphasized the technological excellence and environmentally friendly design of the products, explaining why Ionpolis can be competitive in the global market.

    Ionpolis has established itself as a trusted brand in the South Korean domestic market with great success. CEO Hwang kyu-jin said, “Based on the technological prowess and customer trust we’ve accumulated domestically, we are expecting a new leap forward in the Southeast Asian market.” He also added, “At this expo, we are focusing on expanding partnerships through meetings with local buyers and developing localization strategies tailored to the Indonesian market.” Through this, Ionpolis plans to go beyond simply selling products and introduce customized products that meet the needs and lifestyle patterns of local consumers.

    CEO Hwang kyu-jin sees this K-Expo as a crucial turning point for Ionpolis’s global market expansion. He particularly expects successful entry into Southeast Asian markets, including Indonesia. He expressed confidence, saying, “The Southeast Asian market is a region with huge growth potential, and I believe Ionpolis’s filter showerheads can be loved by many consumers in this region.”

    The K-Expo is an international trade event where various Korean industries gather to showcase innovative products and technologies. Every year, numerous overseas buyers and visitors participate. Through this expo, Ionpolis plans to introduce its innovative filter showerhead products to the world and lay the groundwork for its leap to becoming a global brand.

    CEO Hwang kyu-jin stated, “This expo is an important opportunity for Ionpolis to take another step forward in the global market,” and expressed his ambition, “We will continue to establish ourselves as a brand that consumers around the world can trust and choose through continuous innovation and quality improvement.” Under Ionpolis’s global strategy and CEO Hwang’s leadership, successful expansion in the filter showerhead market is anticipated.

    Media contact

    Company: Ionpolis Co., Ltd

    Contact: Park Ki Woong

    Email: cs@ionpolis.com

    Website: http://ionpolis.com/

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: World Urban Forum participants praise China’s efforts to promote urban greening

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

    CAIRO, Nov. 5 — Participants at the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Egypt on Tuesday spoken highly of the Chinese experience in promoting green cities.

    “The Chinese steps towards urban greening, with much focus on promoting the concept of nature in cities, are noticeable,” said Simon Borelli, urban forestry officer and coordinator of Green Cities Initiatives Forestry Division of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

    “Looking at recreating natural ecosystems, and not just rows of trees and plantations, is an essential step forward for making cities more resilient and more prepared for climate change,” he added, stressing that China has been working on building park cities with a more holistic view.

    Noting China’s focus on improving urban living, the coordinator said its experience could benefit Africa, home to the largest number of developing countries.

    Shi Nan, secretary general of the Urban Planning Society of China, said, “We are trying to share our experiences and also the lessons regarding sustainable development.”

    “The city is not only … a settlement for people, but also the home for animals, forest, trees, and grasses,” he said.

    Regarding Egypt’s urban development, Shi said he was impressed by Egypt’s rich civilization, which has played a significant role in the country’s urban growth.

    There is significant potential for cooperation between China and Egypt, both of which boast ancient civilizations, he added.

    Co-organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Egyptian government, the WUF12 commenced on Monday and will continue until Friday.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Europe SMILE satellite to depart for Europe

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

    China-Europe SMILE satellite to depart for Europe

    Updated: November 6, 2024 09:01 Xinhua
    Technicians check the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. The SMILE is a joint mission between the CAS and the European Space Agency (ESA) that aims to deepen the understanding of the Sun-Earth connection by observing the dynamic interaction between the solar wind and the Earth’s magnetosphere. The SMILE satellite has completed the development work in China, including satellite testing, system interface testing and environmental experiments, according to the National Space Science Center of the CAS. The SMILE is about to depart for Europe. It is scheduled for launch by the end of 2025 from Europe’s space launch site in Kourou, French Guiana, by Arianespace’s Vega-C launch vehicle. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A technician checks the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A technician checks the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A technician measures the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Technicians check the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Technicians pack the battery pack of the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Customs officers check the packages for the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A technician checks the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A technician packs the battery pack of the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Technicians measure the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A technician checks the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) at a workshop of the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 4, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: HK release soars to top of national box office

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Cesium Fallout, a disaster film starring icons Andy Lau and Bai Yu, overtook Hollywood blockbuster Venom: The Last Dance to become the country’s new box-office champion on Monday.

    As of Nov 4, the feature directed by Anthony Pun has grossed around 90 million yuan ($12.7 million) since its debut on Friday, according to the movie information live tracer, Beacon.

    Set in Hong Kong, it follows two parallel storylines about teams of specialists and firefighters as they try to prevent a doomsday disaster following an accident that leads to the release of Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope.

    During the film’s Beijing premiere last week, executive producer Bill Kong, revealed that his inspiration for the film stemmed from reports about the illegal transshipment of waste from other countries.

    He consulted environmental experts, who disclosed that some foreign companies previously dumped electronic waste overseas to reduce recycling expenses, with a portion being directed to Hong Kong.

    He emphasized the danger posed by electronic waste, highlighting the potential environmental harm if the substances they contain leached into the soil, contaminating water sources, and expressed the hope that the film would increase public awareness of the issue.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Employment – Nurses stop work across the country – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    Members of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) employed by Te Whatu Ora are attending a series of 62 meetings across the country over urgent pressing issues.
    These hour-long meetings started on Monday and end on Friday. They aim to allow nurses, midwives, and health care assistants to review Te Whatu Ora’s intention to pause calculations for the Care Capacity Demand Management (CCDM) safe staffing programme during collective bargaining late last month.
    The employer restricting bargaining parameters to 1% of total employee costs will also be discussed.
    Meeting schedule for Thursday:
    • Whangārei – Whangārei Hospital 2nd Floor Conference Room – 2.30pm-3.30pm
    • Kaitāia – Kaitāia Hospital level 3/meeting room 1 – 2.30pm-3.30pm
    • Dargaville – Dargaville Hospital, Dargaville ward lounge – 2.30pm-3.30pm
    • Bay of Islands – Community Building Meeting Room – 2.30pm-3.30pm
    • Auckland – Greenlane Hospital, Building 13, Level 7 – 8.30am-9.30am & 10am-11am
    • Auckland – Waitakere Hospital  Muriwai A wing dining room – 2.45pm-3.45pm
    • Auckland – Manukau Health Park – Conference Room 1 – 12pm-1pm
    • Whakatāne – Clinical School Conference Hall, Whakatāne Hospital – 1.30pm-2.30pm
    • Tokoroa – Library Tokoroa Hospital – 11am-12pm
    • Hawkes Bay – Harding Hall Hastings Hospital – 1pm-2pm
    • Whanganui – Whanganui Jockey Club – 1.30pm-2.30pm
    • Wairarapa – Wairarapa Hospital -2.30pm-3.30pm
    • Blenheim – Wesley Centre – 1.30pm-2.30pm
    • Nelson – Finance Meeting Room, Braemar Campus, Nelson Hospital – 1pm-2pm & 2pm-3pm
    • Timaru – Caroline Bay Community Lounge – 1.30pm-2.30pm.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Home-based ECE care made easier

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Education Minister David Seymour says the Government is cutting red tape in the ECE sector to help make it easier for providers to operate and offer more options to families looking for home-based education and care for their children.

    “I have heard from providers that some of the red tape around home-based ECE care is too onerous and makes them spend too much time on compliance,” says Mr Seymour.

    “While there is huge demand for ECEs, numbers show supply isn’t keeping up. That is why we are committed to making changes which will allow the industry to expand and continue to provide high-quality service for families and their children. 

    Current regulations require 60 percent of educators working for a home-based provider to hold a Level 4 ECE qualification. The remaining 40 percent can be anyone, whether they are working towards their qualification or not, in no particular ratio.  

    “Plans to increase the requirement to 80 percent of educators at the start of 2025 have been scrapped. It would have been burdensome for providers and make it difficult for those wanting to enter the profession by limiting opportunities. This also harms the prospects of industry growth, which providers want,” says Mr Seymour.

    “We’ve listened to providers and added flexibility to the equation. From 1 January 2025 the qualified educator requirement will be removed all together and replaced with a requirement that 100 percent of educators are either fully qualified, or in training to be fully qualified, within six months of their employment.

    “This means providers can more easily maintain the balance between qualified and in-training educators, reducing the possibility of closure. For smaller providers, the difference between compliance and non-compliance could be one qualified educator. This is the difference between a child being able to access education or not. 

    From 1 January 2025, the standard funding rate will no longer apply. All services will receive one single funding rate set at the current quality funding rate. This will become the new base rate for licensed home-based services regardless of how many qualified educators they have in their service.

    “To further increase flexibility, we are allowing home-based persons responsible (often referred to as visiting teachers or coordinators) to work in more than two licensed ECE services per month,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “These changes, which I expect to be made by the end of this year, are part of our effort to reduce red tape in the early learning sector. Alongside these changes the Ministry for Regulation is conducting a regulatory review of the ECE sector as a whole.”

    Note to editors: 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Diwali celebrations light up Sydney

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Published: 6 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Multiculturalism


    Whether it’s in Harris Park or Riverstone, Merrylands or the MCA, Diwali celebrations are taking over Sydney.

    Last night the NSW Government hosted the annual Diwali celebration at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The event provided multicultural leaders from across NSW a chance for to come together and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

    Also known as Deepavali, the festival is of great significance to the Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities.

    The lights represent the lifting of spiritual darkness and the renewal of life. It is a time spent with family and friends, praying for health, knowledge and peace.

    In recognition of Diwali and its timeless message, the Sydney Opera House’s iconic sails were bathed in gold last night as part of the celebrations.

    Participants wear colourful clothes, decorate their homes and exchange gifts and sweets.

    NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

    “Wherever you go in NSW you can find the positive impact in our lives made by the Indian diaspora.”

    “The ideals of knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and light over darkness are messages that everyone can embrace.”

    “By sharing in this celebration, we can all join together, foster greater understanding and keep our communities strong.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-Evening Report: US presidential election holds high stakes for Pacific relations

    PMN Pacific Mornings

    With Election Day for one of the most consequential United States presidential races in recent history underway, Pasifika communities on both sides of the Pacific Ocean are considering how a new administration could impact US-Pacific relations.

    Roy Tongilava, a public policy professional and Pacific community advocate in the United States, hopes to see improved US-Pacific relations under either a Harris or Trump administration.

    “I’m not an expert in foreign affairs, but my hope would be that either a presidency under Harris or under Trump would continue to build those relations, to build those investments, to really help not only combat climate change but also to really aid in the Pacific development, which is inherently connected to what I believe is the Pacific Islander American experience,” he said.

    Pacific commentators Roy Tongilava (left) and Christian Malietoa-Brown . . . interviewed by Pacific Media Network’s Pacific Mornings programme. Image: PMN

    New Zealand political commentator and former chair of the National Party’s Pacific Blues group, Christian Malietoa-Brown, is backing Donald Trump in the presidential race.

    He says the Pacific is caught in a “tug-of-war” between major powers like the US and China, with Australia playing an increasingly significant role.

    “For me, I think in terms of long-term investment, Trump likes to prevent war by showing strength . . .  I think they [the US] will strategically put some investments here just because they don’t want China running around too much in this area for defence reasons.

    “Under the Biden administration, we saw record investment down this way in the Pacific region, obviously to try and push away China’s influence in the region,” Malietoa-Brown says.

    Picking a big player
    “So you have China, you have America, you have Russia, you have India that’s coming up big,” Malietoa-Brown said.

    “And if I had to pick a big player to be in charge of the world, I would pretty much stick to America as it is right now, because that’s the devil we know, rather than someone else that we don’t know. And that’s probably purely a selfish thing.”

    Tongilava agrees that the Joe Biden administration has been positive for the Pacific region in terms of investment.

    “The Biden administration has pumped record investment into the Pacific to a number of things, infrastructure, education, all of that. Ultimately, though, to try and cool off and push away China’s advances towards this region.

    “We’ve seen Vice-President Harris during her time as Vicep-President really commit to climate change as well as building relations within the Pacific region,” he said.

    Education concerns
    For Tongilava, who is part of the South Pacific Islander Organization (SPIO), a nonpartisan non-profit organisation that champions education and workforce development for Pacific youth, this election has serious implications for youth.

    “Our mission is laser focused on enhancing college access, college retention, and degree completion for Native Hawai’ian and Pacific Islander students throughout our college systems,” Tongilava said.

    “A lot of our work has focused on expanding educational opportunity and workforce development for young Pacific Islander students.

    “In terms of education, I think it is crucial that Pacific Islanders turn out today in support of the policies specifically that may hinder or create opportunity for their families and for their communities,” Tongilava said.

    He said it was crucial that Pacific Islanders vote in support of the specific policies that might hinder or create opportunities for their families and their communities.

    Tongilava is concerned about Trump’s proposal to dismantle the US Department of Education, noting that such a move would disproportionately harm communities like the Pacific Islanders, who often rely on federal support for educational programmes.

    “This raises additional questions around what role does the federal government play within our school systems here within states and at the local level. For many Pacific Islander Americans, we live in under-resourced communities,” Tongilava said.

    Republished from Pacific Media Network with permission.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Security: Okmulgee Resident Pleads Guilty To Federal Firearm Charge

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Wilbert Lamon Rivers, age 26, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.

    The Indictment alleged that on November 4, 2023, Rivers knowingly possessed a semiautomatic pistol and forty rounds of ammunition after having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Muscogee (Creek) Lighthorse Police Department, the Okmulgee Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.  Rivers will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Cycling Enthusiasts Gear Up for the Upcoming Two-Day 2024 Areti Gran Prix Cyprus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LIMASSOL, CYPRUS, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The vibrant local cycling community INEX CLUB is organizing the 2024 ARETI Gran Prix Cyprus on November 9-10, 2024, in the picturesque coastal city of Limassol, Cyprus. The organizers have designed the exhilarating two-day cycling event to challenge cyclists of all skill levels with two distinct stages, each offering a unique experience.

    On day one, cyclists will tackle the 70km Coastal Challenge from Limassol to Pentakomo. This route offers stunning coastal views that showcase the region’s natural beauty. On day two, a fast-paced 30km circuit race around Limassol’s new port area provides an exciting urban racing experience for both participants and spectators.

    Ilnur Zakarin, co-founder of the INEX CLUB, expressed his enthusiasm for the race. “The 2024 Areti Gran Prix Cyprus is a celebration of cycling and our region’s beautiful landscapes. We’re excited to provide a platform for cyclists to challenge themselves and inspire others to embrace this wonderful sport.”

    At the end of the race, participants and their supporters will gather at the Finish Line Village, where a lively celebration awaits. According to the INEX team, the village will be filled with refreshments, flags, and inflatables, creating a colorful and welcoming ambiance.

    The organizers encourage families and friends to come out and cheer on the cyclists as the 2024 Areti Gran Prix Cyprus will also culminate in an awards ceremony recognizing the outstanding performances of all participants.

    Sponsorship and Community Support

    The generous sponsorship of ARETI International Group, founded by Igor Makarov makes the 2024 Cyprus Gran Prix possible. A former professional cyclist and member of the UCI Management Committee, Makarov has dedicated his efforts to promoting cycling worldwide.

    Makarov’s cycling career includes initiatives and involvement with various cycling organizations, such as the Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC). He has also supported local charity rides like the “Tour de Broward” and “The Hublot Best Buddies Challenge: Miami.”

    The former cyclist also founded and sponsored the Katusha Team, a professional cycling team that competed successfully on the World Tour from 2009 to 2019.

    Sponsoring the 2024 Areti Gran Prix Cyprus marks Igor Makarov’s second collaboration with INEX CLUB, following the successful INEX Charity Ride held earlier this year. As a Cyprus citizen, Makarov is committed to supporting local cycling initiatives and nurturing young Cypriot talent through comprehensive support and training.

    “The 2024 Gran Prix Cyprus aims to bring together cycling enthusiasts while inspiring new young talents. We hope this race is not the last but just the start of the continuous development of the sport in the beautiful Cyprus region,” Igor Makarov mentions.

    For the complete registration details of the 2024 Areti Gran Prix Cyprus, please visit https://inex.club/granprixcyprus.

    About INEX CLUB

    Ex-professional cyclists Ilnur Zakarin and Viacheslav Kuznetsov, who have over 20 years of cycling experience, founded the INEX CLUB. They’ve won big races like the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France and completed over 15 Grand Tours. In 2023, they decided to end their professional careers and transfer their valuable experience and passion to change the cycling world in Cyprus.

    Contact Information

    Brand: ZAK INEX CLUB LTD

    Contact: Yuliia Tumenko

    Email: events@inex.club

    Website: https://inex.club

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Trio arrested over alleged blessing scam

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton, Auckland City Financial Crime Unit:

    Three suspected scammers have been arrested trying to leave New Zealand with a large quantity of cash from their alleged victims. 

    A 50-year-old man and two women, 59 and 53, were arrested at Auckland International Airport yesterday by detectives from the Auckland City Financial Crime Unit. The trio, all Chinese nationals, were arrested just before they checked in for their flights to China.

    They arrived in New Zealand on 10 October. Police alleged that two days later, they began operating a blessing scam – a form of fraud targeting immigrant or elderly communities who are deceived into believing they or their loved ones are cursed or in spiritual danger.

    Police have jointly charged the three suspects with two counts of obtaining by deception. The charges relate to two victims – one who lost $14,500 and jewellery and another who lost $15,000.

    The accused were remanded in custody following their arrest and are due to appear in the Auckland District Court today. Police are continuing to tally the money that has been recovered, but it is a substantial amount.

    Perpetrators of blessing scams pose as healers or spiritual practitioners, offering to remove the curse or bring good fortune in exchange for money or valuable items. Victims are pressured to hand over cash or jewellery, typically instructed not to open the packages they receive, only to later discover that the contents are worthless.

    While the Financial Crime Unit has identified two victims so far, it’s highly likely more people were targeted.

    We urge anyone who may have fallen victim to this scam to contact us and encourage members of New Zealand’s Chinese community to talk with elderly relatives and make a report if they have been scammed.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please contact us at https://105.police.govt.nz or call 105.

    In New Zealand, blessing scams have predominantly targeted Chinese communities, exploiting cultural beliefs in spiritual healing and curses. This type of fraud has been active in New Zealand for more than 15 years, with a notable rise in cases in Auckland in recent years.

    Police have continued to raise awareness within at-risk communities, yet these fraudulent activities persist, often carried out by well-coordinated groups.

    Police remain committed to protecting all members of the public from fraud and financial harm, and ensuring that everyone feels safe from deceptive practices.

    We encourage the community to stay vigilant against scams and to remain cautious when approached by individuals offering unsolicited services.

    If you suspect that you may have fallen victim to a scam, please contact Police via 105 immediately.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News