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  • MIL-OSI Video: Learn the history of the 25th Infantry Division | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    The 25th ID was activated on October 1, 1941 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Its mission: to deter adversaries by building, sustaining and forward-posturing ready forces alongside allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. On order, 25th Infantry Division fights & wins in large scale combat operations.

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/ X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #25ID #Schofield #Hawaii

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR5AKd9SlwY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN-Business Advisory Council

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn attended the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 9 October 2024. The ASEAN Leaders welcomed the ASEAN-BAC recommendations and encouraged the business community to play an active role in expanding trade and investment across the region, embracing digital transformation and sustainable development, and supporting deeper regional economic integration.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Celebrates ENERGY STAR Day with Facility Efficiency & Green Shipping

    Source: Samsung

    As we celebrate the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR Day on October 9 and Energy Awareness Month throughout October, Samsung Electronics America is proud to spotlight two significant milestones that reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainability. From energy-efficient operations to greener transportation methods, Samsung continues to lead by example in reducing our environmental impact. Our Logan, Utah facility recently earned the EPA’s ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry recognition, and we’ve also joined the EPA’s SmartWay® Transport Partnership, both reflecting our dedication to creating a more sustainable future.
    Leading by Example: EPA Recognition for Energy Efficiency at Logan, Utah Facility
    In a major achievement aligned with the spirit of Energy Awareness Month, the Prismview – A Samsung Electronics Company commercial display manufacturing facility based in Logan, Utah, was recognized by the EPA for reducing its energy intensity by 10% in just one year, earning the prestigious ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry designation. This challenge encourages industrial sites worldwide to reduce their energy intensity by 10% over five years. Samsung’s Logan site accomplished this goal far ahead of schedule, thanks to the efforts of our Workplace Operations and Facility Management teams, who developed and implemented energy demand mitigation strategies across our enterprise.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Quaint Oak Bank Receives SBA Preferred Lender Program Designation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SOUTHAMPTON, Pa., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quaint Oak Bank announced it has been granted the Preferred Lender Program (PLP) designation by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This prestigious designation is a testament to Quaint Oak Bank’s expertise, experience, and commitment to supporting small businesses across the nation.

    The PLP designation enables Quaint Oak Bank to streamline the SBA loan approval process, providing customers with greater speed and certainty in securing financing. As a PLP lender, the established financial institution is authorized to make unilateral approvals on SBA-guaranteed loans.

    “Our long-standing track record of successful SBA lending has culminated in this recognition,” said Steven Willard, SBA Team Leader and Commercial Relationship Manager. “We are committed to offering the best possible service to our customers and believe that this new designation will enhance our ability to do so.”

    With the SBA’s backing, Quaint Oak Bank can offer flexible financing options to businesses that may not qualify for conventional loans, including those lacking collateral or with projected rather than historical cash flow. This program is particularly beneficial for startups, business acquisitions, and companies experiencing rapid growth.

    For more information about Quaint Oak Bank’s SBA lending services and how the PLP designation can benefit your business, visit http://www.quaintoak.com/business-banking/commercial-loans/sba-loans/.

    About Quaint Oak Bank
    Quaint Oak Bank is a Pennsylvania-chartered savings bank and wholly owned subsidiary of Quaint Oak Bancorp [QNTO], a financial services company. Providing exceptional customer service since 1926, Quaint Oak Bank has adapted and grown to match the ever-changing demands of the market. Dedicated to delivering ground-breaking banking technology to its customers, Quaint Oak Bank offers financial solutions that fuel the future of business. Learn more at http://www.quaintoak.com.

    Contact
    Jake R. Doneker
    Vice President, Commercial Relationships
    Quaint Oak Bank
    215.364.4059

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU attended a lecture by a representative of the company “ROCKWOOL”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Students at a lecture

    Leading specialist in training development at ROCKWOOL Natalia Pakhomova gave a lecture to students of SPbGASU on improving the energy efficiency of buildings and fire safety using building materials. The company representative explained that these issues are very relevant, and therefore will be interesting and useful for senior students both for writing final qualifying papers and in general for improving their professional competencies.

    ROCKWOOL is the largest manufacturer of insulation materials and solutions made of stone wool. 25 years ago, the company launched its first production in Russia. Today, ROCKWOOL heat and sound insulation is manufactured in the Moscow region, Vyborg, Chelyabinsk region and Tatarstan. Speaking about the advantages of stone wool products and solutions, designs and their application, Natalia Pakhomova drew the students’ attention to the fact that the raw materials and components of the materials are exclusively Russian, which increases their availability.

    “Our company has developed a series of lectures on various topics: energy efficiency, fire safety, technology of production of building materials, including stone wool. Therefore, we have something to tell to any faculty, course of specialized universities. We have accumulated quite a lot of experience related to the production and use of stone wool, and we want to share our expertise, promote safe, energy-efficient, fire-safe solutions and products. We closely cooperate with SPbGASU and, for our part, are interested in joint training of sought-after specialists,” explained Natalia Pakhomova.

    Associate Professor of the Department of Metal and Wooden Constructions of SPbGASU, PhD in Engineering Stefania Mironova suggested expanding cooperation and, if possible, jointly developing the topic of master’s theses. It turned out that the company “ROCKWOOL” also has experience of such cooperation, and it is ready to increase it. In addition, the company practices organizing internships.

    Fourth-year student of the Department of Construction Technology Anita Agzamova has heard about this company. In the construction of the building, which she plans to take as an object for her final qualifying work, the insulation for walls “ROCKWOOL” is used.

    “During this lecture, I clearly saw how this is applied in practice. The format of such lectures is very interesting and effective, since we are not familiar with educational and theoretical projects, but with practical solutions. It is useful to learn about them, about what new technologies are being implemented in the industry. The opportunity for an internship is also inspiring, motivating and opens the way to the professional sphere,” Anita said.

    Alla Kadyrova, a specialist at the Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career at SPbGASU, reminded students that such meetings with industry representatives will continue, but this is not the only option for assistance in employment from our university. Thus, at the Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career, students are helped to write a resume, consulted on job search issues, and offered vacancies in their specialty from the university’s partners.

    “If you are not considering a job but intend to engage in entrepreneurship, we invite you to take part in hackathons, accelerators, incubators – federal projects, within the framework of which, on the way to implementing your idea, you will be able to assemble a team, develop an economic model, meet partners and even receive funding. We also help implement the “Startup as a Diploma” program. This is an alternative to the traditional final qualifying work or master’s thesis, where students prepare their business project,” explained Alla Kadyrova.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbgasu.ru/nevs-and-events/nevs/students-spbgasu-attended-a-lecture-by-a-representative-of-the-rockwool-company/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Alation Unveils AI Governance Solution to Power Safe and Reliable AI for Enterprises

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alation Inc., the data intelligence company, today launched its AI Governance solution to help organizations realize value from their data and AI initiatives. The solution ensures that AI models are developed using secure, compliant, and well-documented data. With capabilities such as lineage for AI auditability, AI documentation, data discovery and custom tagging, and data quality flags, organizations can confidently accelerate AI development, mitigate risks, and optimize their AI investments for business impact.

    As regulatory demands rise and data environments grow more complex, organizations struggle to scale AI applications—including machine learning (ML) and generative AI (GenAI)—beyond proof-of-concept stages. Despite growing adoption, research from McKinsey shows only 11% of organizations have successfully scaled these initiatives, largely due to challenges in data governance, compliance, and security. New and evolving regulations, such as GDPR, the EU AI Act, and frameworks like the OECD AI Principles and NIST AI Risk Management Framework, further complicate governance requirements.

    Alation’s AI Governance solution equips organizations with trusted, compliant data and the visibility to confidently scale AI initiatives while adhering to governance policies. By cataloging training datasets, LLM prompts, AI models, and API endpoints in a unified platform, Alation ensures traceability across the AI ecosystem, enabling compliance and fostering collaboration. This transparency mitigates AI risks by allowing teams to trace errors, correct biases, and maintain accountability throughout the AI lifecycle. With curated features ensuring data quality and best practices like model card documentation, Alation streamlines AI development, accelerates time-to-value, and delivers governed collaborative AI outcomes. By reinforcing trust and explainability, Alation helps enterprises future-proof and centralize their AI efforts, driving measurable impact.

    “Alation is critical to increasing the confidence and the value of our data, providing a single source of truth that drives informed decision-making across the organization,” said Ilya Gilin, Leader of Data and AI/ML Governance at Interac. “As we scale our AI initiatives, Alation delivers the transparency, traceability, and governance needed to build, document, and validate analytical models confidently. With features like data quality flags and lineage for AI auditability, we can ensure our model inventory is accurate and timely while maintaining compliance and operational excellence. By transforming data into a strategic asset, Alation fuels innovation and future-proofs our data governance program.”

    “Alation delivers critical guardrails required to help keep AI initiatives safe, ethical, and compliant,” said Stewart Bond, Vice President of Data Intelligence and Integration Software Research at IDC. “Alation helps enterprises find, understand, and trust their data and now brings this expertise to AI—now a top boardroom priority. Alation’s AI Governance solution equips data and business teams to track and validate data before it feeds into AI models while supporting model development, documentation, and validation. By providing a trusted platform, Alation enables organizations to deploy and scale reliable, auditable AI, ensuring compliance, mitigating risks, and driving measurable, AI-driven business outcomes.”

    “The potential for AI to revolutionize industries—from preventing financial fraud to accelerating drug development—is immense, but realizing that potential and driving true business value depends on trusted, high-quality data,” said Satyen Sangani, CEO and co-founder of Alation. “Alation’s AI Governance solution ensures AI initiatives are built on secure, compliant, and transparent data, enabling faster innovation with confidence. As enterprises continue to invest in AI infrastructure to scale large models, Alation turns those investments into real-world applications that deliver measurable ROI, reduce risk, and scale AI safely and ethically—unlocking significant business value.”

    Alation’s AI Governance solution enables organizations to confidently scale AI initiatives and drive measurable business outcomes by leveraging:

    • Accurate Datasets for Trusted Models: Alation equips data scientists, ML experts, and AI engineers with trusted, compliant, contextual data. By leveraging Alation’s Intelligent Search and custom tags, users can quickly locate and tag relevant and compliant datasets needed to build trusted AI models, ensuring a strong foundation for AI initiatives.
    • Streamlined AI Documentation and Collaboration: Alation provides a single source of truth for documenting and managing AI models using model card templates. By centralizing collaboration within the AI Governance solution, teams can collaborate in the context of specific models, ensuring unified visibility across all stakeholders. This promotes governance, compliance, and the efficient discovery and sharing of AI/ML models across the enterprise, driving operational efficiency and transparency.
    • Auditable AI Lineage and Traceability: Alation delivers end-to-end lineage from datasets to AI models, offering full visibility into the AI lifecycle. By cataloging training datasets, LLM prompts, AI models, and output data in a single source of truth, Alation ensures traceability for internal stakeholders and auditors. This enables organizations to diagnose issues, enforce compliance, and maintain trust in AI systems, embedding safety, ethics, and governance throughout the entire process.
    • Compliance and Risk Mitigation: Alation’s AI and data governance framework flags non-compliant datasets and ensures AI models are built on reliable, governed data. This mitigates operational risks, prevents costly errors, and safeguards data integrity—ensuring organizations meet the highest regulatory standards while driving innovation.
    • AI Readiness Accelerator: Alation’s Expert Services offering accelerates AI adoption by providing expert guidance and best practices for model card development. Customers can also engage system integrators from the Alation ecosystem to implement these practices, ensuring they are prepared to scale AI initiatives and deliver measurable business impact. 

    To learn more, read our blog, AI Governance Best Practices: A Framework for Data Leaders. 

    Register for the webinar, “Building Trust in AI: Best Practices for AI Governance from IDC’s Stewart Bond,“ on October 23, 2024, at 8 AM PT. Gain expert insights from Stewart Bond, IDC’s Vice President of Data Intelligence and Integration Software Research, and David Chao, CMO of Alation, on navigating AI governance challenges, improving AI safety, and harnessing trusted data to drive successful AI initiatives.

    About Alation
    Alation is the data intelligence company. Nearly 600 global enterprises — including 40% of the Fortune 100 — rely on Alation to realize value from their data and AI initiatives. Customers such as Cisco, DocuSign, Nasdaq, Pfizer, and Samsung trust Alation’s platform for self-service analytics, cloud transformation, data governance, and AI-ready data, fostering data-driven innovation at scale. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Alation has been recognized five times by Inc. Magazine as one of the Best Workplaces. To learn more, visit http://www.alation.com. 

    Media Contact
    Lauren Lloyd
    Director, Corporate Communications
    541-490-6115
    lauren.lloyd@alation.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA’s extraordinary general meeting held on 9 October 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IDEX Biometrics ASA held an extraordinary general meeting on 9 October 2024.

    112.2 million shares or 25.47% of the share capital was represented at the meeting.

    All proposals on the agenda were adopted in accordance with the proposals of the Company’s board of directors, including the approval of Tranche 2 of the private placement, the subsequent offering and the warrants issuance, all as announced on 17 September 2024.

    For further information contact:
    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations
    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com
    Tel: +47 67 83 91 19

    About IDEX Biometrics
    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market.

    For more information, visit http://www.idexbiometrics.com

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: The U.S. Department of Energy Selects Craft to Protect Federal Investments from Foreign Influence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Craft, the supply chain resilience company, today announced its risk management platform was selected by the United States Department of Energy (DoE) to provide risk assessments for companies that apply for awards and loans through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The collaboration is part of a larger effort to protect U.S. energy infrastructure, technology, intellectual property, and federal investments from hostile foreign nations and influence.

    Currently, more than 500 employees across 61 federal government organizations use the Craft platform in support of the SBIR program to enhance their due diligence practices. The DoE’s Office of Research, Technology & Economic Security is the latest agency to use Craft to conduct due diligence on SBIR award applicants. This formerly manual process is now completed quickly and accurately, and supports compliance with the U.S. SBIR And STTR Extension Act of 2022. With Craft, the DoE can discover foreign ownership and associations across myriad data points including patents, licensing, board seats, politically exposed people, investor locations, blocklists, ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO), and more.

    “The U.S. invests significantly in the private sector to support the country’s energy infrastructure and technological innovation. However, foreign influence poses a major threat,” said Brian Mackerer, group director, Government and Defense Sector, Craft. “Craft’s platform provides the DoE with a gold standard for due diligence and ensures that all investments will advance U.S. energy interests.”

    Craft’s due diligence data and intelligence can be accessed by any U.S. government agency for faster risk assessments and to avoid duplicative work. Its platform will continue to be essential for the DoE and other government agencies to invest confidently and quickly on SBIR awards for important energy technology across batteries, electric grid infrastructure, and renewable and clean energy.

    “Foreign influence is increasingly more difficult to detect and manual vetting processes can slow the rate of U.S. innovation and technological progress,” said a representative from the Department of Energy’s Office of Research, Technology & Economic Security. “Craft’s platform allows us to vet federal funds candidates easier and faster to ensure they are free of hostile foreign influence.”

    Craft’s work with the DoE is the latest in a series of announcements with the U.S. government. In May 2024, Craft announced a $28 million, five-year agreement with the Secretary of the Air Force to bolster due diligence efforts across the Department of Defense. In March 2024, it announced a partnership with Strider Technologies, Inc. to enrich the data used to identify foreign influence within supply chains for federal government agencies and organizations engaged in government contracts.

    “Our vision is for Craft to be the supply chain risk and resilience partner-of-choice for the U.S. government. This collaboration is another step forward in that direction,” said Mackerer.

    For more information about Craft, visit http://www.craft.co or contact press@craft.co.

    About Craft

    Craft illuminates the path to global supply chain resilience. It empowers businesses to strengthen their supplier networks and supply chains with the industry’s most reliable and comprehensive data fabric and advanced risk mitigation engine. Craft’s user-friendly platform offers 360-degree visibility to explore and evaluate supplier networks, AI-driven insights to detect and mitigate disruptions, and collaborative tools to enhance supply chain strategies. Procurement and supply chain professionals can confidently navigate regulatory environments, adhere to ethical standards, and ensure business continuity. Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, Craft assists commercial and governmental organizations worldwide in creating more resilient supply chains. For more information about Craft, visit http://www.craft.co.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ASM announces details of the Q3 2024 conference call and webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Almere, the Netherlands
    October 9, 2024

    ASM International N.V. (Euronext Amsterdam: ASM) will report its third quarter 2024 financial results at approximately 6:00 p.m. CET on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

    ASM will host the quarterly earnings conference call and webcast on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. CET.

    Conference-call participants should pre-register using this link to receive the dial-in numbers, passcode and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.

    A simultaneous audio webcast and replay will be accessible at this link.

    About ASM International

    ASM International N.V., headquartered in Almere, the Netherlands, and its subsidiaries design and manufacture equipment and process solutions to produce semiconductor devices for wafer processing, and have facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia. ASM International’s common stock trades on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange (symbol: ASM). For more information, visit ASM’s website at http://www.asm.com.

    Contacts  
    Investor and media relations Investor relations
    Victor Bareño Valentina Fantigrossi
    T: +31 88 100 8500 T: +31 88 100 8502
    E: investor.relations@asm.com E: investor.relations@asm.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia and Furukawa Electric LatAm expand partnership in Brazil to reach data center market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia and Furukawa Electric LatAm expand partnership in Brazil to reach data center market

    • Security and automation designed for the AI era are focus of new phase of partnership, designed for data centers of all sizes in Brazil.
    • Solutions immediately available for Brazilian market bring together Nokia’s modern data center automation platform and Nokia DDoS attack detection and mitigation software.
    • Existing partnership between the companies to commercialize advanced passive optical network (POL) technologies continues throughout Latin America.

    9 October 2024
    São Paulo, Brazil – Nokia and Furukawa Electric LatAm today announced they have expanded their partnership to immediately bring high-performance solutions in data center automation to Brazil. Partners since 2022, the two companies will also continue to offer advanced passive optical network technologies to the Latin American business market.

    Furukawa will now offer Nokia’s Data Center Fabric solution, which includes high-performance data center switching platforms, running Nokia SR Linux, a uniquely open, extensible and resilient Network Operating System and managed by Nokia Event-Driven Automation (EDA), a modern data center network automation platform that combines speed with reliability and simplicity and provides guardrails that detect errors caused by automation.

    Roberto Kihara, General Sales Manager for Furukawa Electric LatAm, said: “We are delighted to be able to extend our partnership with Nokia to offer the most advanced passive optical network technology available. The POL market is very hot in Latin America and we have a lot to achieve together in the region’s data center market. Brazil is a promising market and exemplary in terms of investment volume and demand for automation solutions.”

    Juan Pablo Anadon, Head of Enterprise, Webscale and Partners Sales for Latin America, Network Infrastructure at Nokia, said: “Together with Furukawa Electric LatAm, we are committed to bringing cutting-edge data center technology to the Latin American business market quickly. Our new EDA platform, developed for the AI era, simplifies data center management and can cut down operational efforts up to 40%. Part of our Data Center Fabric solution, EDA is now available in Brazil just two weeks following its global launch, allowing us to work towards our goal with Furukawa to support and advance data center networks in Latin America.”

    Nokia is helping cloud builders worldwide to build modern data center networks that are highly reliable, secure and easy to operate – which is essential to meet the growing demands of AI workloads worldwide.

    Resources and additional information
    Webpage: Nokia – Event-Driven Automation (EDA)
    Webpage: 7220 Interconnect Router for Data Center Fabric
    Webpage: 7750 Service Router
    Webpage: Deepfield Defender
    Press release: Nokia and Furukawa Electric LatAm partner to accelerate Optical LAN in Latin America

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Furukawa Electric LatAm
    Furukawa Electric Latam is a communications infrastructure solutions manufacturer with headquarters in Curitiba/PR and other plants in Sorocaba/SP and Santa Rita do Sapucaí/MG, as well as optical cable factories in Berazategui, Argentina, and Mexicali, Mexico.

    With a comprehensive portfolio of communication infrastructure solutions, it serves diverse markets such as data centres, industries, offices, operators and services, among others, at all application levels.

    Furukawa Solutions brand is the result of the union of various development, production and support centres distributed around the world, relying on the solidity of the Furukawa Electric group, which has been operating globally for over 135 years, offering world-class solutions with local support and services. With a strong commitment to society, it provides infrastructure for life.

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Nokia Americas
    Email: lygia.torelli@nokia.com

    Furukawa Electric Latam
    Email: andreia.rodrigues@agenciafr.com.br

    Follow Nokia on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube

    Follow Furukawa on social media
    Linkedin

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Decision of the Management Board of Šiaulių Bankas AB on acquisition of own shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On 9 October 2024, the Management Board of Šiaulių Bankas AB (hereinafter – the Bank), implementing the decision of the Bank’s Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (29 March 2024) on the acquisition of the Bank’s own shares decided to buy back 6,000,000 shares of the Bank (ISIN code LT0000102253):

    • Up to 4,254,886 shares, for reduction of the Bank capital;
    • Up to 1,745,114 shares, for employees of Šiaulių Bankas Group as part of the deferred variable remuneration.

    Shares will be purchased on the Nasdaq Vilnius tender offer market under the following terms:

    • Share purchase starts on 10 October 2024;
    • Share purchase ends on 18 October 2024;
    • The date of settlement of the tender offer is on 21 October 2024;
    • Maximum number of shares to be acquired – 6,000,000;
    • The total maximum value of the shares to be acquired is 4.98 million euros;
    • Maximum purchase price is set at EUR 0.83 per share;
    • The acquisition price will be determined using a Dutch auction, meaning all transactions will be carried out at a single price. If fewer shares are offered in the auction than the amount to be purchased, the transactions will occur at the maximum price. If more shares are offered, the orders will be executed at the lowest price at which the full required amount can be purchased.

    “We are launching a two-stage process for buying back our own shares. In the first phase, we will create a liquidity event for investors wishing to sell all or part of their shares. In the second phase, which will begin in November, after the announcement of the Bank’s third-quarter results, shares will be repurchased on the open market. With this share buyback strategy, we believe we will achieve the best results, ensuring a high return for shareholders and increasing the Bank’s attractiveness to investors,” says Tomas Varenbergas, Head of Investment Management Division of Šiaulių Bankas.

    On 15 August 2024 the Bank received permission from the European Central Bank (ECB) to buy back up to 13,745,114 its own shares.

    Additional information:
    Tomas Varenbergas
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OnStation Welcomes Former DOT Chief Mack Long to Drive Public Sector Adoption

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEVELAND, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OnStation, the leading provider of digital stationing solutions for the heavy highway industry, today announced the appointment of Mack Long as its new Strategic Advisor.

    Mack brings over 30 years of experience working for both contractors and Departments of Transportation. Previously, he served as the Director of the Montana Department of Transportation as well as President and General Manager of Wyoming’s JTL Group. Mack is a recognized expert in the industry and has served as the Chairman of the Committee on Construction for American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). In his capacity as strategic advisor, Mack will guide OnStation relationships with public sector officials, research, and grant funds.

    Throughout his career, Mack has been passionate about putting the right technology into the hands of road crews, which aligns with the OnStation corporate mission. “OnStation is the best tool out there for both the DOTs and contractors to make sure their projects get built right. It’s the critical tool that connects every road worker with the information they need to be productive and safe,” said Long.

    CEO Patrick Russo noted how the addition of Mack Long deepens OnStation’s value proposition for DOT and contractor teams who often work side by side on the same projects. The app allows team members to instantly find their live digital station and offset reading, drop flags at specific locations, attach images, send chat messages, and share with colleagues across the entire project.

    “OnStation focuses on providing a digital location to every worker on a jobsite to help make their jobs easier and safer. We solve challenges roadway crew experience daily by aligning the needs of DOT project owners and the contractor community, so everyone derives increased value from digital stationing. Mack’s experience on both sides of road construction project teams will help guide us towards fulfilling this vision. It is awesome our company is attracting folks like Mack, and I am excited to learn from him,” said Russo.

    For more information about OnStation and its solutions, please visit http://www.onstationapp.com. 

    About Mack Long

    Mack was born in Billings, Montana, where he grew up and raised his own family. He attended Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman, Montana, and graduated in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. After college, Mack worked in Bozeman where he met and married his wife, Karen, in 1990. Mack returned to MSU to earn a Construction Engineering degree. Later, he and Karen moved to Texas where Mack worked for Peter Kiewit & Sons construction and engineering firm. While in Texas, Mack and Karen raised their family and welcomed their son, Nathon to their family.

    In 1995, they moved back to Billings and Mack went to work for the family construction company, JTL Group, Inc. Shortly after moving back, their daughter was born. The family moved to Casper, Wyoming in 1998 where Mack became the President and General Manager of JTL Group, Wyoming. In 2002, Mack moved into JTL Group’s main administrative office and worked with his father, Joel, in Billings. JTL Group, Inc. was acquired by MDU Resources Group Inc. in 1999. When Joel retired in 2003, Mack became the President and Regional Manager for Knife River Corp, Inc., an MDU Resources division, until he retired in 2009.

    Mack has been the owner and partner in business ventures over the past 10 years and his experience in the construction field has been wide and varied across airport reconstruction, highways, utilities work, and major industrial plant construction. In 2021 Governor Greg Gianforte appointed Mack to be the Director of the Montana Department of Transportation. Mack proudly served in this role and was asked to be the Chairman of the Committee on Construction for AASHTO. Mack retired in April of 2024 to spend more time with his wife.

    About OnStation

    OnStation is a collaborative digital stationing platform that offers location-based project records from bid to close. Specifically designed for the heavy highway industry, OnStation’s mobile app centralizes communication, boosts productivity, enhances worker safety, and improves project quality. Users benefit from live jobsite stationing, milepost, and LRS capabilities. They can overlay design layers on the project map and communicate via a custom chat platform that organizes and records project events at their locations. OnStation is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store and is supported on all desktop systems.

    Contact

    Jessica Kodrich
    jkodrich@onstationapp.com 

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e4dccfb6-c5d1-4af4-851b-79ec1f2b4e36

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: FloQast CEO Mike Whitmire and Accounting Operations Evangelist Stefan van Duyvendijk Publish New Book to Empower Controllers and Accounting Teams

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FloQast, an Accounting Transformation Platform created by accountants for accountants, today announced the release of “Shift Happens: The Rise of the Operational Mindset and How Controllers Can Drive Real Value,” a new book co-authored by FloQast CEO and Co-Founder Mike Whitmire and Accounting Operations Evangelist Stefan van Duyvendijk. Available on the Amazon Kindle Store starting October 9, the book offers critical insights for accounting professionals as they navigate a rapidly changing business landscape.

    Controllers today face increasing pressure to move beyond traditional accounting responsibilities and embrace a more strategic, operational role within their organizations. “Shift Happens” explores this transformation, providing a roadmap for controllers and accounting teams to elevate their influence and steer organizational strategy, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty and business volatility.

    “Shift Happens” draws from the real-world experiences of Whitmire, van Duyvendijk, and other finance leaders at top-tier organizations to deliver actionable advice for controllers looking to position themselves as operational leaders. By adopting a mindset that balances financial expertise with strategic decision-making, controllers can help their companies thrive in today’s complex and fast-paced environment.

    “The controller’s role is changing fast,” said Mike Whitmire, co-founder and CEO of FloQast, CPA. “Accountants understand a company’s finances better than anyone, which puts them in a unique position to help shape business strategy with real data and insights. With today’s economic pressures and talent shortages, businesses can’t afford to overlook this expertise. Our book gives controllers and their teams the tools they need to step up and make a real difference.”

    Stefan van Duyvendijk echoes Whitmire’s sentiment: “Controllers already have the skills and insights needed to drive operational success, but too often they are limited to financial reporting. With an operational mindset, they can expand their influence, bringing valuable insights to the table that impact the entire organization.”

    “Shift Happens” empowers controllers and accounting teams to embrace this broader scope, teaching them how to bridge the gap between accounting functions and business operations. The book provides practical guidance on how to navigate complex financial regulations, communicate effectively with senior executives, and manage cross-functional teams.

    Earn 10 CPE/CPD Credits with FloQademy!

    As part of its mission to provide continuous education to accounting professionals, FloQast is offering readers the opportunity to earn 10 CPE/CPD credits through FloQademy. Head to floqademy.floqast.com/shift-happens to claim your credits and explore other informative and entertaining courses designed to enhance your accounting expertise.

    About the Authors:

    Mike Whitmire is the CEO and co-founder of FloQast, which he established in 2013 to address critical inefficiencies in accounting operations. With a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Syracuse University, Whitmire’s early career included roles at Ernst & Young and Cornerstone OnDemand, where he contributed to a successful IPO. In addition to “Shift Happens,” Whitmire is also the author of the Amazon best-selling book “Controller’s Code: The Secret Formula to a Successful Career in Finance.” Outside of his work in the accounting industry, Whitmire is an avid woodworker and a dedicated Los Angeles Dodgers fan.

    Stefan van Duyvendijk serves as the Accounting Operations Evangelist at FloQast. Prior to joining FloQast, van Duyvendijk held corporate controller positions at Kodiak Cakes and Skullcandy, building extensive experience in financial operations and regulatory compliance. His expertise includes ASC 606 implementation, close process improvements, business combinations, and financial statement audits. When he’s not advocating for accounting innovation, Stefan enjoys skiing the slopes around his home in Utah.

    Book Availability and Pricing: “Shift Happens: The Rise of the Operational Mindset and How Controllers Can Drive Real Value” will be available on the Amazon Kindle Store starting October 9 for a limited-time introductory price of $2.99 for the Kindle edition and $7.75 for the paperback.

    About FloQast

    FloQast, an Accounting Transformation Platform created by accountants for accountants, enables organizations to automate a variety of accounting operations. Trusted by more than 2,800 global accounting teams – including Twilio, Los Angeles Lakers, Zoom, and Snowflake – FloQast enhances the way accounting teams work, enabling customers to automate close management, account reconciliations, accounting operations, and compliance activities. With FloQast, teams can utilize the latest advancements in AI technology to manage aspects of the close, reduce their compliance burden, stay audit-ready, and improve accuracy, visibility, and collaboration overall. FloQast is consistently rated #1 across all user review sites. Learn more at FloQast.com.

    Contact:
    Kyle Cabodi
    FloQast Director of Corporate Communications
    kyle.cabodi@floqast.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Axyom.Core Announces Industry-First 4G/5G Dual Mode Enterprise Small Cells Improving Signal Strength in Indoor Areas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANDOVER, Mass., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Axyom.Core, a leader in cloud-native wireless core and radio access network (RAN) solutions, today announced the commercial launch of the industry’s first 4G/5G dual-mode enterprise femtocell product. It extends service coverage indoors where access would otherwise be limited or unavailable.

    Service providers can deploy these small cells in their own offices, shops, and other facilities, as well as sell them to enterprise customers, such as hospitals, offices, retail stores, and schools which show a significant rise in demand for small cell solutions, driven by the rapid adoption of 5G technologies and the growing need for indoor wireless coverage.

    Axyom.Core’s new femtocell product—supporting both 5G NSA (Non-Standalone) and SA (Standalone) architectures—is well-positioned to meet this demand, offering high capacity and exceptional throughput for improved quality of service.

    “These small cells for enterprises improve indoor communication by providing stronger, more reliable signal strength and a cost-effective solution,” said Kurt Daniel, CEO, Axyom.Core. “By enhancing the flexibility of indoor coverage, this new offering can benefit organizations of all sizes, addressing the common frustration of poor signal strength indoors and helping them meet their connectivity needs more efficiently and affordably.”

    The launch of this dual-mode small cell product marks a significant milestone for Axyom.Core, which continues to lead the way in advancing cloud-native wireless solutions.

    To learn more, register for the webinar on October 29, Redefining Indoor Coverage and Capacity.

    Trusted by six of the world’s top 10 communications service providers, Axyom.Core’s products include high-performance 4G and 5G converged core solutions, Femto core, security gateways, and enterprise RAN. The Axyom.Core platform offers unparalleled efficiency, scalability, and economics, ensuring that customers remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.

    Axyom.Core was acquired by Lumine Group on April 30, 2024, marking the group’s 14th corporate carve-out. The acquisition strengthens Lumine Group’s portfolio in the communications and media software sector with Axyom.Core continuing to operate autonomously under its new brand identity.

    About Axyom.Core
    Axyom.Core is a global leader in cloud-native wireless core and radio access network solutions, trusted by major communications service providers worldwide. Our advanced product portfolio includes high-performance 4G and 5G Converged core, Femto core, security gateways, and enterprise RAN units. Axyom.Core is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the telecommunications industry. For more information, visit http://www.axyomcore.ai.

    About Lumine Group
    Lumine Group acquires, strengthens, and grows vertical market software businesses in the Communications and Media industry. Learn more at http://www.luminegroup.com.

    Media Contact
    Glenn Rossman
    glenn@eckertcomms.com
    914-623-8354

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Light Sail VR Scales Creative Business with OpenDrives Data Management Infrastructure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OpenDrives, Inc., a leading provider of software-defined media storage workflow solutions, today announced that Light Sail VR, a pioneer specializing in immersive media storytelling has selected the Atlas storage platform to modernize and scale its creative production business. Atlas boasts superior performance, enabling customers like Light Sail VR to increase data storage and processing on the fly, accelerating creative workflows by as much as threefold.

    The transition to Atlas has greatly improved the team’s productivity, streamlined their workflows, and optimized their data management capabilities. With features like mount management and containerization, Light Sail VR was able to effectively scale their existing storage and add resources, thus enabling them to onboard more commercial projects effectively and swiftly using various third-party tools available through OpenDrives’ containers marketplace.

    Light Sail VR Co-Founder and Creative Director Matthew Celia, a recognized leader in virtual reality, comments on the transformation OpenDrives has brought to its operation, “OpenDrives was our most important investment at the very outset, as the new infrastructure would set the stage for greater efficiency. The effortless and swift integration into our existing operation enabled us to continue working on the growing number of creative projects without any technology-related glitches. With the enormous flexibility to expand storage as needed, OpenDrives is a game-changer, allowing us to focus on our actual passion—creativity.”

    For Light Sail VR, finding a collaborator like OpenDrives with deep roots in Hollywood and storytelling expertise was key. That combination with Atlas fuels Light Sail VR’s creativity, centralizing global project collaboration and streamlining remote work.

    “It’s our mission to enhance the creative journey with high-performance, low-latency data solutions,” states Sean Lee, CEO, OpenDrives. “The OpenDrives founders and leaders are from the entertainment industry and thus have a deep understanding of the iterative nature of the creative process. We designed Atlas to enable quicker cycles, not just for faster deliveries, but to enrich creativity even under the tightest of deadlines.”

    Innovating Immersive Experiences with Technology

    Formed in 2015 by visionaries Matthew Celia and Robert Watts and joined later by senior creative technologist Alex Pearce in 2020, Light Sail VR continually seeks advanced solutions to address the ever-changing needs of dynamic virtual reality. The creative team’s outstanding body of work includes high-profile projects with Meta, Amazon, Lionsgate, Paramount, Canon, Adidas, and more. The team is widely recognized as pushing the boundaries of creative workflows in immersive media. Light Sail VR’s adoption of OpenDrives supports the vision where technology and imagination intersect to create gripping experiences in virtual reality.

    Celia concludes, “OpenDrives’ commitment to enable customer success is what distinguishes them. Their capability to provide security, ease, and scalability in managing comprehensive data for filmmaking projects promises not only productivity but also potential for growth and expansion.”

    About OpenDrives
    OpenDrives, Inc. delivers high-performance, economically scalable, and easy-to-use data storage solutions—powered by the company’s software-defined platform Atlas—purpose-built to optimize high-bandwidth, low-latency media workflows. Since 2011 OpenDrives has empowered content creators and creatives with seamless, fast, shared data access, collaboration, and management capabilities that help to break down data barriers and accelerate creativity and innovation. Thanks to world-class support, composable feature bundles that promise performance and cost predictability, and flexible deployment options across on-premises, cloud, or hybrid environments, OpenDrives helps businesses effectively transform data and content into revenue. OpenDrives is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. To learn more about OpenDrives, visit http://www.opendrives.com  

    About Light Sail VR
    Light Sail VR is a full-service cutting-edge creative studio that specializes in immersive media storytelling (180 Video / 360 Video / Spatial Video / Game-Engine Content) for agencies, brands, studios and consumers.

    Founded by managing partners Matthew Celia and Robert Watts in 2015, Light Sail VR specializes in story-driven content with compelling narratives, dynamic characters and entrancing visuals. How a person ‘feels’ inside the VR world is the key to unlocking the true potential of the medium. The technology and tools are important but at the core, it’s all about taking the audience on a journey. Loving the work and helping our clients explore new possibilities for their audiences is an honor and our mission. Journey with us as we push the boundaries of immersive storytelling and create experiences that truly do become memories. To learn more about Light Sail VR, visit http://www.lightsailvr.com.

    Press Contact
    Alex Molina
    Grithaus Agency
    alex@grithaus.agency  
    +1 (617) 834-9600

    A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/42099cf7-c17b-451b-a29a-02b5783fc5cf

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dbadbfe2-e7e1-4729-aaea-f0c3a75dafd7

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Data Storage Corporation to Present at the MicroCap Rodeo Fall Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) (“DSC” and the “Company”), a provider of diverse business continuity solutions for disaster-recovery, cloud infrastructure, cyber-security, and IT automation, today announced that it will be participating in the MicroCap Rodeo Fall Conference being held Wednesday, October 16th, 2024, in New York City.

    Chuck Piluso, CEO Data Storage Corporation, and Chris Panagiotakos, CFO of Data Storage Corporation, are scheduled to present at 10:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday, October 16th. The presentation will be webcast live and available for replay at https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/3068/51409 as well as on the Company’s investor relations section of the website at http://www.dtst.com/events.

    Management will also be hosting 1×1 meetings throughout the conference with approved investors.

    Information and registration for the conference can be found here at MicroCap Rodeo.

    About the MicroCap Rodeo Conference:

    The MicroCap Rodeo Conferences stand out as they are organized by money managers and investors, specifically for money managers and investors. This fall, executive management teams from approximately 25 microcap companies across a diverse range of industries will be participating. Investors will have the opportunity to harness top stock ideas for their portfolios through group presentations and 1×1 meetings, offering insights into key value drivers and emerging trends for 2025. Additionally, the event will feature industry guest speakers and ample networking opportunities.

    For more information please contact info@microcaprodeo.com

    About Data Storage Corporation

    Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) is a leading provider of fully managed cloud hosting, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, IT automation, and voice & data solutions. With strategic technical investments in multiple regions, DTST serves a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies, in sectors such as government, education, and healthcare. Focused on the fast-growing, multi-billion-dollar cloud hosting and business continuity market. DTST is recognized as a stable and emerging growth leader in cloud infrastructure, support, and the migration of data to the cloud. Our regional data centers across North America enable us to deliver sustainable services through recurring subscription agreements.

    For more information, please visit www.dtst.com or follow us on Twitter @DataStorageCorp.

    Safe Harbor Provision
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts, although not all forward-looking statements include the foregoing. The forward looking statements in this press release include statements such as continuing to grow revenue and increase profitability as the Company executes on its strategic initiatives, the consolidation of the CloudFirst and Flagship subsidiaries positioning the Company to optimize operations, leverage its technical teams, realize greater efficiencies, and improve internal resource allocation, while capitalizing on extensive cross-selling and upselling opportunities among its customer networks, the two meaningful announced contracts being just the first of many such announcements that will come from the efforts of the combined organizations, having developed a robust business strategy that we will drive growth and secure sustainable profitability while maximizing long term value for shareholders and providing meaningful updates to shareholders as developments unfold. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations and assumptions as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include the Company’s ability to execute and advance its growth strategies. These risks should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read together with the other cautionary statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was initially made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    212-671-1020
    DTST@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ibex Partners with Parloa for Latest GenAI Capabilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON and NEW YORK, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ibex (NASDAQ: IBEX), a leading global provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) and AI-powered customer engagement technology solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with Parloa, a leading provider of generative AI automation solutions. Per the agreement, ibex will leverage Parloa’s AI Agent Management Platform (AMP) as part of the ibex Wave iX solutions suite for clients in North America.

    “ibex is excited to partner with Parloa to leverage cutting-edge GenAI to transform the world of customer experience (CX),” said ibex CEO Bob Dechant. “This strategic partnership unites Parloa’s industry-leading genAI automation for CX with ibex’s ground-breaking Wave iX solutions suite, unmatched BPO expertise, and deep customer insights to deliver the most advanced AI and agent-assisted CX solutions, ever.”

    Parloa’s GenAI-powered AMP platform is designed to support fully dynamic and autonomous personal agents that engage in more natural, engaging customer interactions.

    “We are excited to partner with ibex to bring generative AI to customer engagement at scale,” said Malte Kosub, CEO and Co-founder of Parloa. “By combining our GenAI-based technology with ibex’s expertise, we’re enabling brands to deliver more personalized and efficient customer interactions, enhancing both the customer and agent experience.”

    ibex takes a solutions-driven approach to align with specific business needs and deliver real CX solutions for transformative outcomes. ibex Wave iX, which includes three key solution sets—AgentAI, CustomerAI, and InsightsAI—uses the latest GenAI technology to deliver authentic digital transformation and advanced customer-facing self-service options to businesses of all sizes at every stage of their digital journey. Explore the full suite of ibex Wave iX solutions here.

    About Parloa

    Parloa is a leading AI company for the automation of customer service. Parloa’s platform unites humans and AI in one team to take companies’ service quality to a new level through AI-based customer service, natural-sounding conversations, and outstanding service experiences on the phone and all communication channels. The Parloa platform resolves the majority of customer queries quickly and automatically, allowing contact center agents to focus on complex issues. Parloa was founded in 2018 by Malte Kosub and Stefan Ostwald and today employs more than 250 people in Berlin, Munich, and New York. Find out more about Parloa on our website and join us on LinkedIn to stay up to date.

    About ibex

    ibex delivers innovative business process outsourcing (BPO), smart digital marketing, online acquisition technology, and end-to-end customer engagement solutions to help companies acquire, engage and retain valuable customers. Today, ibex operates a global CX delivery center model consisting of approximately 30 operations facilities around the world, while deploying next generation technology to drive superior customer experiences for many of the world’s leading companies across retail, e-commerce, healthcare, fintech, utilities and logistics.

    ibex leverages its diverse global team of over 30,000 employees together with industry-leading technology, including the AI-powered ibex Wave iX solutions suite, to manage nearly 175 million critical customer interactions, adding over $2.2B in lifetime customer revenue each year and driving a truly differentiated customer experience. To learn more, visit our website at ibex.co and connect with us on LinkedIn.

    Media Contacts:

    Dan Burris
    ibex
    Daniel.Burris@ibex.co

    Julia Goelles
    Parloa
    julia.goelles@parloa.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/49202d3d-6561-4cf6-a051-ddf4a636e145

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New funding to support autistic and learning-disabled people in Westminster | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    A charity in London will support the “hidden population” of autistic and learning-disabled people in Westminster, thanks to new funding. 

    Learning Disability Network London (LDN London) currently runs a community centre, the Enablement Hub, on the Harrow Road in Westminster. With support from Westminster Council the charity will expand its current community programme to Victoria, giving advice and running workshops at a second Hub at Victoria Library.

    The charity will grow its team to help more people in the local community.   

    LDN London’s Enablement Hubs support learning disabled and autistic people who get little or no support to manage their lives. They take part in workshops about life skills, including health and relationships, finance, and safety, make friends, and join in activities and events.

    With this funding from Westminster Council’s Fairer Westminster Investment Programme, LDN London will be able to reach more learning disabled and autistic people across Westminster who want help in their daily lives.

    On Friday 13 September, LDN London and Westminster Council officially opened the new Enablement Hub at Victoria Library with a ribbon-cutting and a workshop.  

    Councillor Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Westminster’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, attended the event. She said:

    “I am so pleased that we are funding LDN London to provide much-needed support, advice, and activities for learning disabled and autistic residents. This is an important step towards ensuring learning disabled and autistic residents are empowered to extend their independence, learn new skills and participate in activities they enjoy.”

     

    Kym, a local resident who regularly goes to the Enablement Hubs, said:

    “I really enjoy coming along to the sessions, especially the sports, dancing and singing sessions. I’ve also enjoyed helping and volunteering. It’s been great socially too and meeting other residents.”

    LDN London will also recruit five new team members as part of this programme, including two autistic or learning disabled apprentices.

    The charity will hire two community outreach workers to give up to 25 hours one-to-one help, supporting people with managing bills, going to health appointments, and completing forms. LDN London will also employ a community engagement worker to lead on initiatives for autistic people.

    Sally, who is one of the interns for LDN London’s Enablement Hub, said:

    “I’ve enjoyed the sessions and as part of it I’ve been given the opportunity to be an intern at LDN London focusing on community engagement. I’ve learnt quite a lot”.

    LDN London has been supporting learning disabled and autistic people in London for over 60 years. The charity was previously named The Westminster Society.

    The Enablement Hubs are tackling inequalities faced by learning disabled and autistic people. Those who don’t qualify for support often must do tasks they find difficult on their own. They also face many challenges in their daily lives because of a lack of the right support and prejudice in society- including poor healthcare, higher rates of mental health problems, loneliness and being victims of crime and hate crimes.

    The charity’s aim for The Enablement Hubs is to support people with learning disabilities to overcome social isolation, be more independent and to be fully included in the community.

    Mandy Crowford, Assistant CEO at LDN London, said: “Too many learning disabled, and autistic people don’t get the support they want and need, and we hope to change that. We want to help this hidden population to live safe, happy and healthy lives.”

    Luana Baptista, head of community engagement at LDN London, said: “We are grateful for this funding, which means we can reach even more learning disabled and autistic people and help them to be fully included in our communities.”

    The workshops at The Enablement Hubs focus on life skills that help people to live independently and have healthy, safe and fulfilling lives. Recent workshops have been on voting, having healthy relationships, inclusive trips to The British Museum, as well as regular men’s and women’s groups.

    If you would like to find out more about The Enablement Hubs, visit Learning Disability Network London’s website:

    LDN Community Hubs

    LDN London’s Hubs are based at 389A Harrow Road and at Victoria Library.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Customers award Rightworks with record 11 badges in G2 Fall 2024 Reports

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NASHUA, N.H., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rightworks, the only intelligent cloud services provider purpose-built for accounting firms and professionals, is proud to announce it earned a record 11 badges in G2’s Fall 2024 Reports for its OneSpace and OneSpace Firm solutions. The top honors from G2 continue to differentiate Rightworks as a leader in the accounting profession for its secure, advanced and user-friendly solutions and services backed by dedicated, expert support.

    Rightworks OneSpace earned the following recognitions in G2’s Fall 2024 Reports:

    • Leader
    • Leader — Small-Business
    • High Performer (for OneSpace Firm)
    • High Performer
    • High Performer — Mid-Market
    • High Performer — Small-Business
    • Users Love Us
    • Best Support — Mid-Market
    • Easiest To Do Business With
    • Easiest To Do Business With — Small-Business
    • Momentum Leader

    “We typically see only around 10% of all vendors on G2 appear in our quarterly Market Reports, so it’s a major accomplishment that Rightworks has been recognized this season, 2024,” said Sara Rossio, Chief Product Officer at G2. “We extend our congratulations to Rightworks for receiving praise through authentic customer reviews, powering its rankings on the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace.”

    Rightworks achieved Leader and High Performer recognition by receiving positive reviews from verified users compared to similar products in each category. Products must receive 10 or more reviews to be included. In G2’s Fall 2024 Reports, just 6% of the Software & Services received a Leader badge.

    “We are honored to receive this remarkable G2 recognition for the 14th consecutive quarter. Our achievement reflects our ongoing efforts to deliver innovative solutions uniquely focused on the accounting profession and support that elevates our customers’ experience,” said Joel Hughes, CEO of Rightworks.

    G2 is the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace. More than 90 million people annually — including employees at all Fortune 500 companies — use G2 to make smarter software decisions based on authentic peer reviews.

    Learn more about what users have to say by visiting Rightworks’ review page.

    Connect with Rightworks
    Visit our newsroom; read our blog; and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    About Rightworks
    Rightworks enables accounting firms and businesses to significantly simplify operations and expand their value to clients via our award-winning intelligent cloud and learning resources. This is possible with Rightworks OneSpace, the only secure cloud environment purpose-built for the accounting and tax profession, and Rightworks Academy, the premier community for firm optimization, growth and professional development. The Academy offers access to thought leadership, events, peer communities and extensive learning resources. Founded in 2002, we’ve grown to serve over 10,000 accounting firms in the US—from single practitioners to Top 10 firms. For more information, please visit rightworks.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e6a06dcf-e109-4b95-a3ac-7be45320f996

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: STS Cloud and Cloudbeds unveil powerful integration to transform hotel group sales and event operations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Charleston, SC, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SalesAndCatering.com and Cloudbeds have announced a two-way integration that will empower hotels, resorts, and conference centers to optimize hotel group sales and event management.  By combining Cloudbeds’ innovative property management system (PMS) with STS Cloud’s robust event management and sales capabilities, hoteliers can prevent overbookings, optimize room and event inventory, and deliver personalized service to win more deals. 

    The integration enables hotel staff to manage every aspect of group and event bookings, from room blocks to event contracts, while automatically syncing data with Cloudbeds in real time. Sales managers can easily create and manage contracts, banquet event orders (BEOs), and special requests from any device, enhancing both the guest experience and hotel efficiency. By automating many of the time-consuming aspects, like room block management and rate tracking, hotel teams can operate more efficiently,  maximize revenue from group stays, and focus on creating exceptional guest experiences.

    “Efficiency is a key factor in maximizing hotel group sales and meeting revenue,” said Ryan Hamilton, Co-founder of STS Cloud. “We designed STS Cloud to streamline every part of the sales process—from pipeline management and group block creation to event orders and digital contracts. Our integration with Cloudbeds takes this a step further by allowing sales teams to check room availability and automatically sync room blocks directly into the PMS. This seamless connection not only saves time but also boosts productivity, enabling teams to focus on closing deals and enhancing overall hotel operations. We prioritize quality partnerships and are excited to build a strong relationship with Cloudbeds.”

    The key features of the STS Cloud and Cloudbeds partnership include:

    • Seamless integration:  Room block and rate information will flow effortlessly from STS Cloud into Cloudbeds’ Property Management System (PMS), while STS Cloud will simultaneously pull real-time inventory, pickup, and room rates from Cloudbeds, ensuring hotels maintain accuracy and efficiency in managing their bookings.
    • Efficient event management: Event planners and sales teams can easily create and manage contracts, banquet event orders (BEOs), and special requests directly from their mobile devices, enabling personalized service for every event.
    • Revenue optimization: The platform offers robust tools to upsell additional services such as catering, banquet services, and amenities, helping hotels increase revenue from group bookings.
    • Flexible deployment options: STS Cloud supports both SaaS and on-premise deployment, providing hotels of all sizes with a solution that fits their unique needs.

    “Our collaboration with STS Cloud creates a powerful solution for hotels,” said Richard Castle, Co-Founder of Cloudbeds. “We share a common belief in user-friendly design, advanced functionality,  and expert customer support, which makes for happier, more efficient hotel staff. This two-way integration optimizes group sales and event management. We look forward to growing this partnership to drive even more value for our customers.”

    For more information about the STS Cloud and Cloudbeds integration, visit salesandcatering.com and cloudbeds.com.

    END

    About SalesAndCatering.com

    SalesAndCatering.com provides the most affordable full-featured Sales and Catering systems for hospitality.  Its STS Cloud Sales and Catering system is widely installed and engineered to give property sales teams the sales tools that help them achieve their goals. SalesAndCatering.com’s systems are developed and supported by the company’s US-based offices. It is a trusted full-service sales and catering partner that delivers solutions via a software-as-a-service model that ensures greater client communication to streamline the sales process and maximize staff productivity. SalesAndCatering.com’s systems help hotel companies meet revenue goals through anytime-anywhere data access and integration with multiple PMS systems.  STS Cloud delivers unparalleled performance to help you thrive in today’s competitive sales environment.

    For more information, please visit salesandcatering.com.

    About Cloudbeds

    Cloudbeds is the leading platform redefining the concept of PMS for the hospitality industry, serving tens of thousands of properties in more than 150 countries worldwide. Built from the ground up to be masterfully unified and scalable, the award-winning Cloudbeds Platform brings together built-in and integrated solutions that modernize hotel operations, distribution, guest experience, and data & analytics. Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has been named a top PMS, Hotel Management System and Channel Manager (2021-2024) by Hotel Tech Report, World’s Best Hotel PMS Solutions Provider (2022) by World Travel Awards, and recognized in Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500 in 2023.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: VanEck Launches $30M Fund to Support Innovation in Fintech, Crypto and AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Fund is available to Qualified Purchasers Only, is subject to significant risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Please carefully read the Private Placement Memorandum before investing.

    NEW YORK, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VanEck, a leading global investment management firm, announces the launch of VanEck Ventures, a $30 million early-stage fund dedicated to investing in visionary founders operating at the intersection of fintech, digital assets, and artificial intelligence. This launch marks VanEck’s strategic expansion into venture capital, building on its long-established record of identifying and supporting transformative markets.

    “From pioneering an approach to gold investing in 1968 to recognizing the disruptive potential of Bitcoin in 2017, embracing a long-term view on transformative opportunities has always been part of our investment philosophy. This fund extends that vision into the early-stage venture space,” said Jan van Eck, CEO of VanEck. “We look forward to supporting founders of what we believe are some of the most disruptive companies in fintech—those building the future of finance.”

    VanEck Ventures invests in category-defining founders pushing the boundaries of financial applications and markets leveraging emerging technologies like blockchain and large language models. The fund’s investment philosophy focuses on supporting exceptional teams building at the application layer while maintaining an infrastructure-agnostic approach. The fund’s core investment themes include tokenized assets, internet native financial marketplaces, and next-generation payments building on stablecoins and tokenized capital markets.

    The fund is led by Wyatt Lonergan and Juan Lopez, both seasoned investors with experience in fintech and crypto ventures. Previously, Lonergan and Lopez headed Circle Ventures, the venture arm of USDC-issuer Circle, where they successfully invested over $50 million in early-stage companies ranging from infrastructure to consumer applications. Their leadership, combined with VanEck’s strong reputation in asset management, positions VanEck Ventures as a valuable partner for emerging innovative startups. VanEck’s global workforce and senior leadership support the fund from an operational and advisory perspective.

    “Three inflection points core to our investment thesis are starting to reshape the foundation of the internet: stablecoins emerging as an open-source banking layer, the commoditization of blockspace, and AI breakthroughs. The convergence of these is creating unprecedented opportunities for globally connected, user-centric financial experiences, and we are excited to back founders building on these innovations,” said Wyatt Lonergan, General Partner at VanEck Ventures.

    The fund expects to make 25 to 35 investments with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $1 million, focusing on companies that offer both strategic and financial upside. The fund has already made 4 investments yet to be announced.

    “Over the past few years, we’ve seen stablecoins enable seamless, large-scale value storage and transfer along with Linux-like composability,” said Juan Lopez, General Partner at VanEck Ventures. “As several on-chain utilities, focused on programmability and compliance, come to market with growing regulatory clarity, it’s never been a more exciting time to build. Our goal is to be a long-term partner to bold founders defining the next phase of blockchain utility.”

    About VanEck

    VanEck has a history of looking beyond the financial markets to identify trends that are likely to create impactful investment opportunities. We were one of the first U.S. asset managers to offer investors access to international markets. This set the tone for the firm’s drive to identify asset classes and trends – including gold investing in 1968, emerging markets in 1993, and exchange traded funds in 2006 – that subsequently shaped the investment management industry.

    Today, VanEck offers active and passive strategies with compelling exposures supported by well-designed investment processes. As of August 31, 2024, VanEck managed approximately $113.9 billion in assets, including mutual funds, ETFs and institutional accounts. The firm’s capabilities range from core investment opportunities to more specialized exposures to enhance portfolio diversification. Our actively managed strategies are fueled by in-depth, bottom-up research and security selection from portfolio managers with direct experience in the sectors and regions in which they invest. Investability, liquidity, diversity, and transparency are key to the experienced decision-making around market and index selection underlying VanEck’s passive strategies.

    Since our founding in 1955, putting our clients’ interests first, in all market environments, has been at the heart of the firm’s mission.

    General Disclosures

    This is not an offer to buy or sell, or a recommendation to buy or sell any of the securities, financial instruments or digital assets mentioned herein. The information presented does not involve the rendering of personalized investment, financial, legal, tax advice, or any call to action. Certain statements contained herein may constitute projections, forecasts and other forward-looking statements, which do not reflect actual results, are for illustrative purposes only, are valid as of the date of this communication, and are subject to change without notice. Actual future performance of any assets or industries mentioned is unknown. Information provided by third party sources are believed to be reliable and have not been independently verified for accuracy or completeness and cannot be guaranteed. VanEck does not guarantee the accuracy of third party data. The information herein represents the opinion of the author(s), but not necessarily those of VanEck or its other employees.

    The Fund is available to Qualified Purchasers Only. Please carefully read the Private Placement Memorandum before investing. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. There is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective and investors may lose their entire investment. The Fund is not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

    The Partnership’s investment program is speculative and entails substantial risks. There can be no assurance that the Partnership’s investment objective will be achieved.

    An investment in the Fund involves a high degree of risk, including, without limitation, uncertain returns, market risk, risks associated with Limited Partner default, indemnification risks, illiquidity, possible lack of diversification, lack of management control, tax risks and potential conflicts of interest. There is no guarantee that the Funds’ investment objectives will be achieved.

    VANECK ABSOLUTE RETURN ADVISERS CORPORATION (“VEARA”), THE INVESTMENT MANAGER OF THE FUND, IS A MEMBER OF NFA AND IS SUBJECT TO NFA’S REGULATORY OVERSIGHT AND EXAMINATIONS. VEARA HAS ENGAGED OR MAY ENGAGE IN UNDERLYING OR SPOT VIRTUAL CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS IN THE FUND. ALTHOUGH NFA HAS JURISDICTION OVER VEARA, YOU SHOULD BE AWARE THAT NFA DOES NOT HAVE REGULATORY OVERSIGHT AUTHORITY FOR UNDERLYING OR SPOT MARKET VIRTUAL CURRENCY PRODUCTS OR TRANSACTIONS OR VIRTUAL CURRENCY EXCHANGES, CUSTODIANS OR MARKETS. YOU SHOULD ALSO BE AWARE THAT GIVEN CERTAIN MATERIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THESE PRODUCTS, INCLUDING LACK OF A CENTRALIZED PRICING SOURCE AND THE OPAQUE NATURE OF THE VIRTUAL CURRENCY MARKET, THERE CURRENTLY IS NO SOUND OR ACCEPTABLE PRACTICE FOR NFA TO ADEQUATELY VERIFY THE OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL OF A VIRTUAL CURRENCY OR THE VALUATION ATTRIBUTED TO A VIRTUAL CURRENCY BY VEARA.

    General Digital Asset Risks

    Cryptocurrencies and digital assets are not suitable for all investors. Investments in digital assets and Web3 companies are highly speculative and involve a high degree of risk. These risks include, but are not limited to: the technology is new and many of its uses may be untested; intense competition; slow adoption rates and the potential for product obsolescence; volatility and limited liquidity, including but not limited to, inability to liquidate a position; loss or destruction of key(s) to access accounts or the blockchain; reliance on digital wallets; reliance on unregulated markets and exchanges; reliance on the internet; cybersecurity risks; and the lack of regulation and the potential for new laws and regulation that may be difficult to predict. Moreover, the extent to which Web3 companies or digital assets utilize blockchain technology may vary, and it is possible that even widespread adoption of blockchain technology may not result in a material increase in the value of such companies or digital assets.

    Digital asset prices are highly volatile, and the value of digital assets, and Web3 companies, can rise or fall dramatically and quickly. If their value goes down, there’s no guarantee that it will rise again. As a result, there is a significant risk of loss of your entire principal investment.

    Digital assets are not generally backed or supported by any government or central bank and are not covered by FDIC or SIPC insurance. Accounts at digital asset custodians and exchanges are not protected by SPIC and are not FDIC insured. Furthermore, markets and exchanges for digital assets are not regulated with the same controls or customer protections available in traditional equity, option, futures, or foreign exchange investing.

    Digital assets include, but are not limited to, cryptocurrencies, tokens, NFTs, assets stored or created using blockchain technology, and other Web3 products.

    Web3 Companies include but are not limited to, companies that involve the development, innovation, and/or utilization of blockchain, digital assets, or crypto technologies.

    © Van Eck Associates Corporation

    ©️ Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation
    666 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017
    Phone: 800.826.2333
    Email: info@vaneck.com

    Media Contact

    Garret J. Shaw
    +1 517.213.3180
    garret@serotonin.co
     

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: 
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c23f9cc-2c26-4460-975f-b5b0c214c2e9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BloFin Shines at TOKEN2049 Singapore, Sets Sights on Expanding Presence at TOKEN2049 Dubai

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BloFin, a leading centralized cryptocurrency exchange (CEX), made a strong impact as a sponsor of TOKEN2049 Singapore for the second consecutive year. This sponsorship underscores BloFin’s increasing influence in the cryptocurrency industry and marks its commitment to furthering its reach, with an upgraded sponsorship planned for TOKEN2049 Dubai later this year.

    At TOKEN2049 Singapore, BloFin hosted the Whale Royale Yacht Club side event, a highlight of the conference. The exclusive gathering brought together key opinion leaders (KOLs), industry executives, and crypto enthusiasts, fostering meaningful discussions and collaborations within the cryptocurrency space.

    BloFin Prepares for TOKEN2049 Dubai Expansion

    Looking ahead, BloFin is poised to expand its footprint at TOKEN2049 Dubai, building on the success of its Singapore event. With ambitious growth plans, BloFin continues to focus on providing innovative services to its expanding global user base.

    “We are proud of our achievements at TOKEN2049 Singapore and are excited to build on this momentum as we prepare for TOKEN2049 Dubai,” said Matt, CEO of BloFin. “Our mission is to continue delivering top-tier services while enhancing the user experience.”

    BloFin’s Trading Engine: A Leap Forward in Speed and Reliability

    In tandem with its event sponsorship, BloFin has implemented significant upgrades to its trading platform, reinforcing its reputation as a top destination for crypto traders. The recent introduction of cutting-edge technologies, including In-memory Processing and the Raft Consensus Algorithm System, has dramatically improved trading execution speeds and system reliability, even during peak periods.

    These enhancements highlight BloFin’s dedication to providing a secure and efficient trading environment, in line with its brand promise, “Where Whales Are Made.” With a focus on advanced trading features, enhanced security protocols, and a seamless user experience, BloFin continues to set new standards of excellence for traders and crypto enthusiasts alike.

    About BloFin

    BloFin is a secure, innovative cryptocurrency centralized exchange (CEX) offering over 350 USDT-M perpetual contracts and 250 spot trading pairs. Designed for both novice and experienced traders, BloFin provides a high-performance platform with deep liquidity, competitive pricing, and minimal slippage. Beyond derivatives trading, the platform offers services such as spot trading, copy trading, demo trading, and more.

    Security remains a top priority at BloFin, as demonstrated by its partnerships with Fireblocks for asset protection and Chainalysis for compliance and security. BloFin continues to enhance its offerings to provide a secure, user-friendly experience for its growing global user base.

    For more information, visit BloFin’s website or follow BloFin on Telegram, Twitter.

    Media Contact:
    Annio W.
    Head of Marketing and Public Relations
    Email: annio@blofin.io

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BloFin. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e0b53214-e8dd-48b8-a75f-01f12a0bdd5b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/da5ea658-bb4d-4580-a062-f6c43d79cc61

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Hurricane Milton

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on Hurricane Milton in the Gulf of Mexico. 

    Prof Ilan Kelman, Professor of Disasters and Health, University College London, said:

    “Florida should have been braced for catastrophic impacts from Hurricane Milton, especially storm surge and rainfall flooding. The possible disaster is sadly unsurprising, since Florida sits in the usual hurricane zone and it is now hurricane season. Yet the state permitted building development in dangerous locations and does not always support people who need help over the long-term to be ready for hazards.

    “Human-caused climate change is strengthening hurricanes while reducing their frequency. Hurricane Milton shows exactly the climate change influence we would expect from higher storm intensity.

    “Given Florida’s hurricane history including previous storms in this area in 1848, 1921, and 1946, they should have been much more prepared over the long-term. Planning decisions creating dangers and long-term lack of services to assist people who cannot help themselves for known hazards are all about choices to make disasters.”

    Prof Liz Stephens, Professor in Climate Risks and Resilience, University of Reading, said:

    “The wide area of intense winds and rainfall from Hurricane Milton will mean that many communities in Florida who are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene will be affected again by this latest storm, even though Milton is expected to make landfall further south.

    “Hurricane Milton is forecasted to track across Florida and out into the North Atlantic Ocean. This means that we are not expecting to see the same flash flooding and mudslide impacts as Helene in areas such as the Appalachian mountains, caused by Helene decaying over land.

    “Rising sea surface temperatures as a result of climate change are fuelling the intensity of hurricanes, and the warmer atmosphere can carry more water. This means that the storms which do form are becoming more impactful.

    “Further research is needed to understand how the risk of consecutive hurricanes is changing, as these clusters of events can greatly stretch resources for emergency preparedness and response.”

    Prof Hannah Cloke, Professor of Hydrology, University of Reading, said:

    “Hurricane winds grab people’s attention, but flooding is probably the biggest concern with Milton. Winds of 150mph can easily destroy buildings and cause injuries and fatalities if people are caught out in the open by flying debris. 

     “There are three types of floods that cause the biggest damage – storm surge causing coastal flooding, flash floods from the extremely heavy rain, and river floods as all that water rushes down channels and onto floodplains. 

     “People’s attention may be turned to the sky, but emergency planners will be worried about what is coming from below.”

    Prof John Marsham, Professor of Atmospheric Science, University of Leeds, said:

    How does climate change impact extreme weather?

    “Weather extremes increase rapidly for even apparently small increases in global temperature – this is true for heatwaves, floods, droughts and intensity of hurricanes.

    Is climate change making hurricanes more common/worse?

    “Many aspects of Helene and Milton are absolutely what we expect from climate change – hurricanes need warm oceans to form, and record-breaking ocean temperatures are fuelling these devastating storms. Warm air holds more water, giving heavier rain and more flooding. Increased sea-levels from climate change give more coastal flooding when hurricanes create a temporary “storm surge” rise in sea level. Finally, climate change can give shorter gaps between extreme events allowing less time to recover – we’re now seeing people affected by Helene now having to prepare for Milton. If we rapidly phase out fossil fuels, we can stop these extremes getting much worse but will have to continue to cope with the new climate we have created and will likely have to cope with rising sea levels for centuries.

    What is particularly worrying about this hurricane?

    “As a climate scientist, and a parent, every extreme weather event is now a reminder of the catastrophe we will face if we do not rapidly phase out fossil fuels. The tragedy is that climate scientists have been warning of this for decades. Rapid action is critical. Most people in the UK want more action on climate change and underestimate how much other people do. We have solutions and rapid action will save trillions.”

    Declared interests:

    Prof Ilan Kelman: No interests to declare

    Prof Liz Stephens: “I also work for the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre”

    Prof John Marsham: “I receive funding from UKRI, FCDO and the Met Office”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Air Capital Wealth Management Launches with LPL Financial

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC (Nasdaq:LPLA) announced today that financial advisors Michael Caffrey, CRPC®, Derek Keller, CFP®, CPFA®, CRPC®, MBA, and Gabriel Parham have launched a new independent practice, Air Capital Wealth Management, through affiliation with LPL Strategic Wealth Services, a supported independence model. The team reported having served approximately $685 million in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets* and joins LPL from Merrill Lynch.

    Based in Wichita, Kan., known as the Air Capital of the World, the advisors are longtime colleagues who each bring diverse experiences and perspectives to the team. Caffrey was mentored by his father, Ron Caffrey, and has earned recognition on several Forbes lists**. Parham also grew up in the business and recalls making 50-cents an hour as a child to help his mother file — a job that sparked his interest in investments early on. Keller has nearly two decades of experience guiding clients’ financial lives. Together, with support from two assistants, the advisors share a commitment to providing comprehensive services and personalized advice to their clients.

    “Our mission is to help each individual client with their financial goals by simplifying the complexities, making it easier for them to understand,” said Parham, who noted their client base spans from doctors, engineers and pilots to farmers, teachers and small business owners. “We are passionate about building deep relationships with clients and providing them with personalized financial strategies.”

    As they continue to honor the legacy of the firm’s early leaders, Ron Caffrey, Janet Johnson and Deborah Rowley, all who have since retired, the Air Capital team decided the independent model would best suit the growing needs of their business.

    “We want to be able to focus on clients, their goals and objectives, not corporate mandates,” Caffrey said. “LPL provides us with the flexibility and resources we need to make our own decisions and build our business how we want. We also have several new options across the board within LPL’s open architecture platform, including more planning software, which allows us to provide even more comprehensive and personalized experiences for our clients.”

    The team was drawn to LPL’s comprehensive supported independence solution, LPL Strategic Wealth Services (SW), which combines the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship with hands-on business services and support to help practices thrive, both operationally and strategically. In addition to having access to LPL’s innovative wealth management platform and sophisticated resources, SW advisors benefit from a truly integrated service that includes simplified pricing, technology and dedicated support to launch their practice. Then, after the transition is complete, SW teams receive ongoing operations support managed by their team of experienced professionals including a business strategist, marketing partner, CFO and administrative assistant. Advisors have one point of contact, a dedicated team and priority access to advocacy and project management for complex business issues, ultimately allowing them to stay focused on the enduring needs of their clients and the culture and evolution of their practice.

    “We truly appreciate all of these dedicated resources and sophisticated capabilities behind the scenes to allow us to run the business as we see fit while also ensuring clients are getting the best care,” Keller said. “We look forward to having more time to interface with clients and providing them with differentiated experiences.”

    Outside the office, all three advisors are active in the community. Keller is a Boy Scout leader, member of Shriners International and proud supporter of his alma mater, Wichita State University. Parham is a member of The American Legion and Fuse Foundation. He also supports Kansas Honor Flight and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Caffrey supports several organizations including the Wichita Wagonmasters, East YMCA Men’s Club, Senior Services of Wichita and St. Thomas Catholic Church. As independent advisors, they look forward to expanding their local presence by using Wichita-based vendors and investing more back into the community.

    Scott Posner, LPL Executive Vice President, Business Development, said, “We welcome Mike, Derek and Gabe to LPL and congratulate them on the launch of their new independent business. We are committed to being a long-term partner to the Air Capital team — and all our advisors — by delivering a leading wealth management platform that supports the full lifecycle of their business.”

    Related

    Advisors, learn how LPL Financial can help take your business to the next level.

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) was founded on the principle that LPL should work for advisors and institutions, and not the other way around. Today, LPL is a leader in the markets we serve, serving more than 23,000 financial advisors, including advisors at approximately 1,000 institutions and at approximately 580 registered investment advisor firms nationwide. We are steadfast in our commitment to the advisor-mediated model and the belief that Americans deserve access to personalized guidance from a financial professional. At LPL, independence means that advisors and institution leaders have the freedom they deserve to choose the business model, services and technology resources that allow them to run a thriving business. They have the flexibility to do business their way. And they have the freedom to manage their client relationships, because they know their clients best. Simply put, we take care of our advisors and institutions, so they can take care of their clients.

    Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. LPL Financial and its affiliated companies provide financial services only from the United States. Air Capital Wealth Management and LPL Financial are separate entities.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    *Value approximated based on asset and holding details provided to LPL from end of year, 2023.

    ** Forbes “2024 Best-in-State Wealth Advisors,” “2024 Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams,” and “2024 Next-Gen Best-in-State.”

    Media Contact: 
    Media.relations@LPLFinancial.com 
    (704) 996-1840

    Tracking #639367

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tobique First Nation — One individual arrested following firearm and drug trafficking investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 51-year-old man from Tobique First Nation, has been arrested in connection with a firearm and drug trafficking investigation in Tobique First Nation, N.B.

    On October 3, 2024, the Western Valley Region RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence on New Road, in Tobique First Nation. During the search, police seized firearms, a quantity of suspected cocaine and drug trafficking paraphernalia.

    The 51-year-old man was arrested at the scene and later released. He is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

    Members of the West District Crime Reduction Unit, Police Dog Services, and Emergency Response Team assisted with the search.

    The public plays an important role in helping to reduce, prevent and solve crime, including the trafficking of illegal drugs. Anyone with information about, or who suspects, illegal drug activity in their neighbourhood is asked to contact their local police. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigations are ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met identify man that died following stabbing at a house in Canning Town

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives have launched a murder investigation following a stabbing at a house in Canning Town at the weekend.

    Raish Ahmed, 50, died following the assault and two other people were also injured.

    Police were called to a residential property in Hartington Road shortly after 16:30hrs on Saturday, 5 October to reports of a stabbing.

    Officers attended along with paramedics from the London Ambulance Service where they found Mr Ahmed with stab wounds.

    A teenage boy was also found with a slash injury, whilst another man, aged 41, was also assaulted. Both injuries were assessed as not life-threatening.

    Mr Ahmed was taken to hospital for treatment, but despite the best efforts of emergency services he sadly died in hospital on Monday, 7 October.

    A murder investigation was then launched by officers from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    Daniel Whybrow, 46 (03.10.78), of Hartington Road, E16, was charged on Sunday, 6 October with attempted murder, the charges of which will now be reviewed by the CPS following Mr Ahmed’s death.

    Whybrow was also charged with grievous bodily harm, threats to kill, racially aggravated assault and possession of an offensive weapon.

    He will next appear at Isleworth Crown Court on Monday, 4 November.

    Police are not looking for anyone else involved in this attack.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact the police incident room on 0208 721 4961 or 101, quoting CAD 4781/05OCT.

    Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: The Future of Navigation is Mini: Advanced Navigation Launches Certus Mini Series with INS and AHRS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Advanced Navigation, a world leader in navigation and autonomous systems, has announced the expansion of its versatile Certus range, with the new Mini series.

    Available in three variants, the Certus Mini series includes a GNSS-aided Certus Mini D and Certus Mini N inertial navigation system (INS), while Certus Mini A functions as an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS).

    Weighing no more than 55 grams, the series packs an impressive punch in performance and cost-efficiency, defying expectations for its weight and size.

    Advanced Navigation CEO Chris Shaw said, “Manufacturers and system integrators often face trade-offs between performance, size, cost and weight. The Certus Mini series is a testament these attributes do not need to conflict with one another.

    For customers deploying land-based vehicles, this value-driven breakthrough lowers their entry barrier to precise and reliable navigation. It also unlocks new possibilities for those using lightweight airborne platforms, such as drones, where every gram counts towards flight efficiency and power consumption.

    Designed with flexibility in mind, the series is easily integrated into existing and new system builds with simple plug-and-play connectivity, minimizing development time and costs. This adaptability, paired with its performance and size, makes the Mini series a powerful addition to the already versatile Certus range.”

    The Future of Navigation is Mini

    • Dual-antenna INS – Leading the series, the Certus Mini D features dual-antenna GNSS heading. This allows it to deliver superior accuracy in heading, position and velocity. With a maximum weight of 55 grams, it fills a critical gap in the market for a dual-antenna INS in a lightweight and compact size.
    • Multiband GNSS receiver – By operating on the L1/L5 multi-constellation GNSS, the Certus Mini series offers leading capabilities in interference immunity, position accuracy and multipath resistance in urban environments, such as near tall buildings, tree canopies and canyons.
    • Software-enabled hardware – The series houses Advanced Navigation’s breakthrough algorithmic technology. This software-enabled hardware delivers navigation data superior to outputs based on traditional filter methods, offering new levels of performance for miniature INS in GNSS-challenged environments.

    Advanced Navigation Introduces the Certus Mini Series

    Easily Integrated Into New and Existing Platforms

    The Certus Mini series can be easily integrated into legacy systems and new builds, ensuring seamless upgrades, reducing installation time and minimizing costs. This flexibility accelerates deployment across diverse applications including:

    • Geospatial surveying – Certus Mini can augment drone solutions by providing accurate positioning and attitude without weighing the system down. This enables new applications for surveying environments across open-pit mines, construction sites, urban areas and critical infrastructure.
    • Agriculture – In a new era defined by farming-as-a-service (FaaS), Certus Mini can be used in purpose-built agriculture robots and equipment to assist with a diverse range of tasks, including aerial spraying, weed detection and localization, monitoring crop health, inspecting moisture levels, creating field maps, autonomous pruning and grass-cutting, among others.
    • Open-pit mining – Certus Mini is the ideal solution for surface drilling OEMs and integrators seeking precise rig alignment. Best-in-class accuracy provides precise alignment even in deep pits where multipath errors occur, and a ruggedized design delivers durability and reliability in harsh mining conditions.
    • Asset tracking – Certus Mini can be used to track and monitor assets for a range of industries, including mining, facility management, manufacturing, construction, commercial fleets, automotive, oil and gas, among others.

    Rapid Product Delivery with In-House Manufacturing

    By manufacturing all solutions in-house, Advanced Navigation employs a vertical integration framework which streamlines development, enhances quality control, and ensures agility in responding to customer demand. Further, by utilizing machine learning and advanced quality control mechanisms, only components meeting the highest standards are integrated into the navigation system.

    This in-house capability guarantees exceptional product reliability, quality, and longevity, while providing complete control over production timelines, reducing lead times, and ensuring swift, efficient delivery of the entire product series.

    Advanced Navigation ensures rapid product delivery with in-house manufacturing

    General availability
    The Certus Mini series is now available for purchase in OEM and ruggedized form.

    Certus Mini Dual-antenna Navigation

    • 0.1 ° Roll and Pitch
    • 0.1 ° Heading (GNSS)
    • 10 mm RTK Positioning
    • 1000 Hz Update Rate

    Certus Mini Navigation, single antenna

    • 0.1 ° Roll and Pitch
    • 0.2 ° Heading (Velocity)
    • 10 mm RTK Positioning
    • 1000 Hz Update Rate

    Certus Mini Attitude and heading reference system

    • 0.1 ° Roll and Pitch
    • 0.8 ° Heading (Magnetic)
    • 1000 Hz Update Rate

    Note: The Certus Mini series will replace Advanced Navigation’s legacy systems Orientus and Spatial. Customer support will continue for Orientus and Spatial, with the Certus Mini Series recommended for new design and builds.

    About Advanced Navigation
    Advanced Navigation is a global leader in navigation and autonomous systems. By leveraging capabilities in software-enabled hardware, every solution delivers unrivaled capabilities and exceptional performance across land, air, sea and space applications where GPS is unreliable.

    Made possible with extensive research, testing and onshore automated manufacturing, the company has progressed into deep technology fields, including underwater acoustics, GNSS antennas and receivers, radio frequency systems, inertial sensors, photonics, robotics and quantum-enhanced inertial navigation. Customers choose Advanced Navigation for rapid product delivery and unmatched technical field expertise.

    Headquartered in Sydney, Australia with multiple research facilities throughout the country and offices around the world. Advanced Navigation is an Australian manufacturer exporting globally. #JoinTheAutonomyRevolution

    For additional information, visit http://www.advancednavigation.com

    Media Contact
    Stephanie Qiu
    Senior PR & Communications Manager
    stephanie.qiu@advancednavigation.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8dcddce0-5100-486b-a2da-e5e42f29dcde

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b0769d46-7105-470c-9e40-7c03da141388

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/115c0419-2618-4756-a41e-c1c2df255e73

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MELD Launches Crypto Neobank

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MELD, a new Neobank focusing on crypto friendliness launches today with their iOS mobile app. Coming to the market with a new type of banking that merges crypto and fiat services into a single platform. MELD gives you a traditional fiat deposit account and a non-custodial crypto account together in the same wallet. Account holders can exchange between crypto and fiat or between crypto tokens on different blockchains. Bringing the best of both worlds together in one account.

    MELD is approaching banking from a decentralized perspective. Through the MELD blockchain, the network is run by individuals or companies so no one single individual is in control. They currently have 26 of these independent nodes running the blockchain with plans to grow it to over 100. This is a fairly common type of blockchain, called Proof of Stake. Where MELD is innovating is on the banking side of the network.

    MELD has developed a proprietary banking system from scratch that integrated several payment and currency providers, some of which duplicate each other. This way, MELD is creating decentralization on the banking side where it can pick and choose the best provider for the right transactions. This also prevents an outage from one provider to stop the service because MELD can switch to a different provider that has a simpler service, creating redundancy in their system.

    In addition to this, MELD is building connectivity between the banking network and the blockchain with their zkBanking Network. This new technology duplicates all of the traditional banking transactions onto the MELD blockchain in a way that maintains privacy. With their zkBanking, users can send a proof of payment, fund or balance to a counterparty that can verify this on the blockchain.

    Notwithstanding the technical innovation, the new MELD Neobank brings fast, cheap and easy banking services to users in more than 160 countries around the world. Primarily targeting users that hold crypto and need an efficient way to convert crypto into fiat to buy crypto with fiat currency. MELDs goal is to let people use crypto as easily as they can use fiat like Euros.

    The banking services are mobile first, available today on iOS only, but the Android version of the Neobank is under development. You can go to the App Store and download MELDapp for Mobile in more than 160 countries.

    This new Neobank wallet supports Euros with an additional 20+ currencies coming in the next few weeks along with 4 of the major blockchains, Ethereum, MELD, Avalanche and Cardano. MELD has an ambitious plan of products and services coming out in the coming months. As a result they are offering early adopters a 70% discount for 2 months. The Premium service is only €5 per month. With this subscription, you lower your fiat/crypto on and off ramping fee from 1% to an incredibly low 0.01% per exchange.

    About MELD
    MELD is a crypto native global neobank powered by the blockchain. Bringing fiat currencies like (30+ including USD and EUR) and crypto currencies (1000+ BTC and ETH) together in one seamless wallet supporting more than 160 countries. MELD makes it easy to navigate between these two worlds and get the best out of both. From generating a yield on your crypto to debit cards and business accounts, MELD brings fundamental banking services to everyone.

    The MELD blockchain powers more than just the MELD Neobank, with a non-custodial lending and borrowing protocol and more than 30 businesses building on MELD. Users interact with all of this through the MELD web and Mobile apps helping people and businesses take full advantage of both their crypto assets and fiat assets.

    You can follow the project and stay up to date with its development at these links: Website | X (Twitter) | Telegram |

    Contact:
    press@meld.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by MELD. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5190354e-313c-44ef-ab60-82088e9d5d6b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lendmark Financial Services Expands Virginia Presence with Williamsburg Branch, Marking its 47th Location in the State

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILLIAMSBURG, Va., Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark), a leading provider of household credit and consumer loan solutions, continues to expand its Virginia footprint, opening a new branch in Williamsburg.

    The branch is located at 6614 Mooretown Road, Suite B, and is expected to serve hundreds of customers in its first year. Sonja Winnington, who serves as the branch manager, will be responsible for administration of all daily operations. These include building personal relationships with customers and integrating into the community to ensure area residents receive a superior level of individualized loan services that meet their unique financial needs.

    “As we grow our footprint in Virginia, we will continue to focus on delivering the tailored loan solutions our customers need to meet planned and unplanned life events,” said Dan Quann, Vice President of Branch Operations at Lendmark. “Our Virginia branch openings and overall branch growth demonstrate an ongoing need for diverse household financial options for consumers here and throughout the country.”

    In addition to serving consumers directly, Lendmark provides financing solutions for thousands of retailers and independent auto dealerships, allowing these businesses’ customers to obtain Lendmark financing. Local businesses that are interested in partnering with Lendmark to provide financing solutions for their customers should visit the branch or call 757-378-6363.

    Lendmark’s ‘Climb to Cure’ is its signature cause-related initiative. The company has committed to raising $10 million by 2025 to mark its 10-year anniversary partnering with CURE Childhood Cancer. So far, Lendmark’s employees, partners and customers have raised $8.83 million to support CURE, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to funding targeted pediatric cancer research that is utilized nationwide.

    Lendmark customers can participate by donating $1 when closing their loan. Lendmark matches the donation.

    About Lendmark Financial Services
    Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark) provides personal and household credit and loan solutions to consumers. Founded in 1996, Lendmark strives to be the lender, employer, and partner of choice by protecting household wealth, offering stability and helping consumers meet both planned and unplanned life events through affordable loan offerings. Today, Lendmark operates more than 515 branches in 22 states across the country, providing personalized services to customers and retail business partners with every transaction. Lendmark is headquartered in Lawrenceville, Ga. For more information, visit http://www.lendmarkfinancial.com.

    Media Contact
    Jeffrey Hamilton
    Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
    jhamilton@lendmarkfinancial.com
    678-625-3128

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c0cb5942-d810-4b17-a625-70205d6f609c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Portfolio Update: New Stock Picker Appointed for Alliance Witan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Alliance Witan PLC (the “Company”)
    LEI: 213800SZZD4E21OZ9W55

    Portfolio Update: New Stock Picker Appointed for Alliance Witan

    Alliance Witan PLC (“Alliance Witan” or the “Company”) announces that its investment manager, Willis Towers Watson (“WTW”), has appointed Jennison Associates (“Jennison”) as an additional stock picker for its multi-manager global equity portfolio, taking the total number of stock pickers to eleven.

    New York and Boston-based Jennison was founded in 1969. It has $210 billion of assets under management (as of 30 June 2024) and specialises in investing in companies with exceptional growth prospects. Jennison previously managed part of the multi-manager global equity portfolio of Witan Investment Trust (“Witan”) before the latter’s combination with Alliance Trust plc to create Alliance Witan (the “Combination”), which completed on 9 October.

    Jennison’s allocation of approximately 5% of the Company’s portfolio has been largely filled from a subset of the stocks which it managed within Witan. Most of the balance of Witan’s portfolio transferred pursuant to the Combination has been handed to BlackRock, which is acting as transition manager, for realignment. However, with two managers in common between Alliance Trust and Witan – Veritas Asset Management and GQG Partners – there have also been some other in specie transfers of stock which will be retained.

    The overall risk profile of the Alliance Witan portfolio will remain largely unchanged from that of the Alliance Trust portfolio before the Combination, reflecting the continuation of the distinctive multi-manager approach previously employed. There will be no major regional, style or sectoral biases relative to the market, with most of the added value designed to come from stock picking. Details of allocations by manager will be available in the next factsheet.

    Craig Baker, Chief Investment Officer of WTW and Chair of the Alliance Witan Investment Committee, said: “Jennison has long been one of our highest-rated managers and will diversify our exposure to growth stocks. The combination with Witan gives us the opportunity to transfer them in largely in-specie, hence with relatively low transaction costs.”

    For more information, please contact:    
    Mark Atkinson
    Senior Director
    Client Management, Wealth & Retail
    Willis Towers Watson    		   Sarah Gibbons-Cook/Nick Croysdill

    Quill PR
    Mark.Atkinson@wtwco.com   AllianceTrust@quillpr.com
    Tel: 07918 724303   Tel: 020 7466 5050

    9 October 2024

    The MIL Network –