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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sustainability by the book for Green Libraries Week

    Source: City of Leeds

    Libraries in Leeds are displaying books celebrating nature and climate action this week in a bid to inspire a new chapter in the city’s sustainability story.

    As part of Green Libraries Week, titles offering everything from top gardening tips, environmentally friendly recipes and information about the climate emergency will be among the Green Reads on show at libraries and community hubs across the city.

    Stats compiled by Leeds Libraries show the city’s library users have saved more than 2,550,000kg from their carbon footprints over the past year by borrowing rather than buying books- the equivalent of 1,300 flights from Leeds to New York.

    Now the service wants to offer visitors even more practical tips, guidance and facts about how everyone can do their bit to help the planet.

    The new Green Reads displays are part of a series of activities and events taking place throughout the week highlighting how libraries and their visitors can play their part.

    A collection of historic images showcasing the beauty of the city’s parks through the years will also showcase the importance of local green spaces during series of digital drop-in sessions and online on the Leodis website.

    The remarkable images include a photo from 1907 showing mill owner Jonathan Peate gifting land to the people of Yeadon for use as a local park.

    Also part of the gallery is an undated photo showing spectators watching a display of Maypole dancing at the annual Children’s Day at Roundhay Park. The event took place every year from 1920 until the 1960s, and a Queen was crowned each year.

    Also included is an engraving of Temple Newsam from the 1700s, created by Kip and Knyff Dutch draughtsmen, engravers and painters who specialised in engraved views of English country houses. This was one of many featured in their “Britannia Illustrata” published in around 1708.

    Other events being held during Green Libraries Week will include a code club, where visitors will be coding solutions to clean up oceans and reduce recyclable waste going to landfill.

    Green speakers at library social clubs, Story and Rhyme sessions celebrating wildlife, and eco-themed activity at kids clubs will also take place at a number of libraries across the city.

    Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: “Leeds has made a commitment to work towards being a carbon neutral city by 2030, and in order to achieve that ambition, we need everyone to work together across our communities.

    “Libraries are the perfect place for people to get the information they need to play their part and to pick up some simple, practical advice about what they can do at home to make a difference.

    “By taking part in Green Libraries Week, we’re highlighting some of the many ways people can get involved in a fun, accessible and friendly place.”

    More information on Green Libraries Week in Leeds including events at local libraries and community hubs can be found at: Green Libraries Week | Leeds Library

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Smokers urged ‘it’s never too late to quit’ – as city records its lowest smoking rates

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Sunderland smokers are being told it’s never too late to quit after the city recorded its lowest ever adult smoking rates.

    Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics show that the proportion of adult smokers in Sunderland fell to 12.3 in 2023 and remains just slightly higher than the North East average of 11 per cent and national average of 11.6 percent.

    Councillor Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, said: “Historically Sunderland has had high rates of smoking and smoking continues to be one of the leading causes of premature death so it’s brilliant to see our smoking rates continuing to fall.

    “While there’s still some way to go, the latest figures show the steady progress being made in our work to improve the health and wellbeing of our residents.

    “Cutting the rate of smoking is a key priority of our Healthy City Plan and as a council we’re committed to getting smoking rates down to 5 per cent by 2030 as we continue to work in partnership with Fresh, the NHS and councils across the region.

    “Quitting smoking can be difficult but it’s also one of the best things you can do for your health, not to mention your wallet or your overall sense of wellbeing. There’s a lot of support for anyone who wants to quit and Stoptober is a great time to give up.

    “Research suggests that smokers who complete the 28 day Stoptober Challenge are five times more likely to stay quit for good.

    “So I’d urge anyone thinking of quitting to take advantage of all the support that’s out there and contact the Sunderland Stop Smoking Service, especially as smokers can now swap their cigarettes for a free vape to help them quit, with the help and support of an experienced stop smoking advisor.”

    While many people try to quit smoking with willpower alone, it’s much easier to go smokefree with the right help.

    Visit FreshQuit.co.uk for lots of useful advice and information on reasons to quit, how to make quitting less stressful and what help is available to support you to give quitting a go this October.

    Sunderland smokers can contact the city’s specialist stop smoking service for free advice and support, including one to one support from an experienced stop smoking advisor and stop smoking tools such as nicotine replacement products. The service is also part of the national Swap to Stop programme.

    This means that smokers aged 18 and over can swap their cigarettes for a free vape alongside the one to one support to help them to quit. Evidence shows that swapping to a vape and getting specialist help and advice increases a smokers chance of quitting for good.

    To contact Sunderland Stop Smoking Service, call them on 0800 169 9913 or visit http://www.sunderlandstopsmokingservice.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – States of Alderney response to alternative air transport model proposition – 08.10.24 Tuesday 08 October 2024

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Press Release

    Date:  8th October 2024

    States of Alderney response to alternative air transport model proposition

    The States of Alderney has welcomed alternative ideas for air transport presented by three local people to States Members and now made public but emphasises that much work would be required before it can be considered as a viable option.

    The proposal seen by the States is authored by the Alderney Air Transport Group which consists of local men Roger Dadd, Rod Paris and Malcolm Matthews, who have experience of air transport operations.

    A States spokesman said: “We welcome ideas from the public and thank the group for its concept which we will review with interest as we develop the strategy for solving our connectivity issues. In the meantime, no doubt the group will continue to develop their ideas into a feasible and deliverable proposition that could be taken to the market. 

    “A successful air transport model will only emerge once we have clarity on the runway’s dimensions. Until then, such ideas are theory rather than a sound business plan.”

    The alternative proposition recommends buying up to four nine-passenger, single-pilot Tecnams and operating an inter-island service with no Alderney-Southampton route.

    A report commissioned by the States Trading Supervisory Board examining the options for Alderney’s runway is expected to be brought to the States of Alderney by the end of the year.

    Ends

    States of Alderney media enquiries:Alistair.Forrest2@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Join Ramblers Wellbeing Walks and get on route to better health

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The group, Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Wolverhampton, currently has weekly walks taking place across 12 locations, including Bantock Park, Bilston Urban Village, Warstones, East Park, Bushbury Triangle, Northwood Park, Pendeford, Smestow Valley, Springfield Park, Ettingshall Park, Springvale Park and West Park.

    The walks are especially suited for people who currently don’t do much walking but who want to get healthier, fitter and make new friends. For more information, please visit Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Wolverhampton.

    Nalin Patel, Volunteer Scheme Co-ordinator, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming more people to our walking group. We offer a range of walks each week, with something for everyone.

    “We are also keen to accept any volunteers wishing to train as walk leaders to support our walks. Since September 2023 we have trained around 20 new walk leaders, including 4 who will shortly be working in the All Saints area, and 2 more to increase walks at East Park.”

    John Denley, Wolverhampton’s Director of Public Health, said: “Walking is not just an excellent social activity, but also brings with it a huge number of health benefits.

    “It has a positive effect on the heart, including lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease, it strengthens bones and muscles, it improves balance and coordination, and it can help maintain a healthy weight. Evidence also suggests that just a 20 minute walk per day helps prevent and manage chronic illnesses and can also help prevent dementia.

    “Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Wolverhampton offer a variety of free walks at locations across the city, so, as we enter a new season why not get out and about and enjoy some of the beautiful autumnal displays that nature is offering us at this time of year?”

    For more information, email nalinpatel1ccc@gmail.com or call her on 07881 742959 or 01902 755492.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fun Activities and Freebies – Join Us at Active Stoke’s Leisure Weekend

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Monday, 7th October 2024

    Active Stoke is hosting open days at our three leisure centres across the city as part of its Leisure Weekend, running from Friday, 11th October to Sunday, 13th October.

    Join us at one of the centres to explore a variety of wellbeing activities, health-focused initiatives, and fun opportunities for all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax, improve your health, or find a new way to stay active, there will be something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy free taster sessions, health checks, exclusive offers, and exciting prize giveaways.

    The weekend will feature a range of activities designed to support your overall wellbeing, including gentle fitness challenges, family-friendly games, and wellness advice. Our Community Team will be on hand to guide older adults looking to stay active, and parents will find plenty of opportunities to engage with their children in a fun, supportive environment.

    The open days will take place at the following locations:

    •         The Wallace Sport & Education Centre (Friday 11th October)

    •         Dimensions Leisure Centre (Saturday 12th October)

    •         Fenton Manor Sports Complex (Sunday 13th October)

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of the Council, said: “I’m thrilled to see Active Stoke offering such a wide variety of activities at the city’s leisure centres for all ages to enjoy this weekend. Prioritising both physical and mental wellbeing is essential, and it’s important that everyone has access to enjoyable activities that suit their needs.

    “I encourage everyone to come along to a leisure centre near them and explore what’s on offer. You might discover a new way to support your wellbeing or try something you never knew you’d enjoy!”

    For more information on the different events each centre is putting on and the open day schedule, visit the Active Stoke website: https://activestoke.co.uk/events

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA appoints 3 Senior Legal Directors

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Lourenço Ventura and Emma Cochrane will join the CMA’s existing team and Richard Romney will take up his current Senior Legal Director role on a permanent basis.

    iStock

    Richard, Emma and Lourenço will be responsible for leading legal teams across the CMA’s portfolio of work – Richard for mergers, markets and regulatory appeals, Emma for consumer enforcement and Lourenço for competition enforcement, alongside the current Senior Legal Directors.   

    Following a highly successful interim promotion, Richard will take up the permanent position with immediate effect. Prior to joining the CMA’s Legal Service on temporary promotion in January 2023, Richard was a Director within the Mergers team, responsible for overseeing a range of high-profile merger cases. Richard originally joined the CMA in 2019 as a Senior Associate from Freshfields. 

    Emma will join the CMA from Linklaters, where she is a Counsel in the Antitrust & Foreign Investment Group. Emma has over ten years’ experience as a competition lawyer, including advising on cartel investigations, mergers and acquisitions, market investigations, abuse of a dominant position and other commercial agreements. Prior to Linklaters, Emma spent four years at Simmons and Simmons in the EU, Competition & Regulatory group. 

    Lourenço is returning to the CMA after spending the last two years working at the European Commission in Brussels. Previously, Lourenço spent ten years in various roles at the Office of Fair Trading – the CMA’s predecessor – and the CMA, most recently in the role of Legal Director. Before this, Lourenço spent 3 years at the Lisbon office of law firm Garrigues working on competition and EU law, commercial agreements, pharmaceutical and regulatory, and misdemeanour procedures. 

    Emma is joining the CMA in November and Lourenço will take up his post at the start of 2025. 

    Welcoming the appointments, Chris Prevett, General Counsel at the CMA said:  

    Sound, strategic legal risk management, and reaching robust legal decisions, underpins every aspect of the CMA’s work on behalf of UK consumers and businesses. With the CMA’s responsibilities set to grow following the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, I am really pleased to be making three appointments at this senior level.  

    Each of these senior appointments brings substantial expertise, and will add further strength and depth to the senior leadership team and high calibre lawyers and policy professionals comprising the CMA’s Legal Service. 

    This is a well-deserved promotion for Richard, reflecting his contribution to the CMA’s Legal Service, and I look forward to working with Emma and welcoming back Lourenço.

    Notes to Editors 

    1. For media enquiries, contact the CMA press office on 020 3738 6460 or press@cma.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK sanctions Russian troops deploying chemical weapons on the battlefield

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Russian troops involved in the abhorrent use of inhumane chemical weapons on the battlefield in Ukraine have been targeted by new UK sanctions.

    • Russia’s Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence (CBR) troops and their commander have been sanctioned for the deployment of barbaric chemical weapons in Ukraine. 
    • UK calls out Russia’s flagrant violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and urges Russia to immediately cease all such activity.  
    • Action continues the Foreign Secretary’s personal mission to target the full spectrum of the Kremlin’s malign activity through our arsenal of sanctions.

    Russian forces have openly admitted to using hazardous chemical weapons on the battlefield, with widespread use of riot control agents and multiple reports of the use of the toxic choking agent chloropicrin – first deployed on the battlefields of WW1.  

    Russia’s flagrant disregard for the Chemical Weapons Convention is a serious violation of international law. Agents of Putin’s mafia state were also responsible for deploying the deadly nerve agent Novichok on the streets of Salisbury in 2018, and against opposition leader Alexei Navalny in 2020.  

    Among those sanctioned today are the Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of the Russian Armed Forces and its leader Igor Kirillov, responsible for helping deploy these barbaric weapons. Kirillov has also been a significant mouthpiece for Kremlin disinformation, spreading lies to mask Russia’s shameful and dangerous behaviour.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said: 

    The UK will not sit idly by whilst Putin and his mafia state ride roughshod over international law, including the Chemical Weapons Convention. I have made it my personal mission to challenge this malign activity, and I will not back down. 

    Russia’s cruel and inhumane tactics on the battlefield are abhorrent and I will use the full arsenal of powers at my disposal to combat Russia’s malign activity. 

    Let me be clear; Putin and those who carry out his will have nowhere left to hide. We will continue to use sanctions to directly target and counter the Kremlin’s attempts to sow fear, division and disorder.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

    Our message to Putin and his regime is clear: you cannot break international law without facing the consequences.

    We will not allow such blatant violations of the Chemical Weapons Convention and rules-based international order to go unpunished.

    The UK is cracking down on those responsible for these horrific chemical attacks in Ukraine. Our support for Ukraine is ironclad and will continue for as long as it takes.

    Also sanctioned today are two Russian Ministry of Defence laboratories for providing support for the development and deployment of these inhumane weapons for use on the frontlines. 

    The UK is steadfast in supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom, liberty and victory in the face of these barbaric attacks. We have provided Ukraine with vital equipment and training to protect its people against chemical weapons.  

    The UK has also committed to delivering £3 billion of military aid to Ukraine every year for as long as they need. The UK’s military, financial, diplomatic and political support for Ukraine is iron-clad. We cannot and will not let aggressors like Putin succeed.

    Background

    Today’s action comes as the UK delivers a statement to the Organisation’s Executive Council laying out the UK’s commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the OPCW in the face of those who act to undermine it. The full speech can be found here. 

    Those sanctioned today are: 

    • The Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation. 
    • Igor Kirillov, Head of the Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation. 
    • The Russian Ministry of Defence 27th Scientific Centre. 
    • The Russian Ministry of Defence 33rd Central Scientific Research and Testing Institute. 

    These targets have been designated under the UK’s Chemical Weapons (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. The individual will be subject to an asset freeze and travel ban, and entities subject to an asset freeze. The asset freeze will apply to all persons within the territory and territorial sea of the UK and to all UK persons, wherever they are in the world. It also prevents funds or economic resources being provided to or for the benefit of the designated person. An individual subject to a travel ban must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Reopening Green Federal bond issue – Auction result

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    A digital euro would be a digital form of central bank money, specifically the euro. It could be used by the general public in much the same way as cash, only in virtual form. Alongside cash, the Eurosystem would thus supply households with an additional form of central bank money that can be used quickly, easily and securely.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Protea Hotels by Marriott Expands Footprint in Africa with New Openings in Nigeria and Zambia

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

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, October 8, 2024/APO Group/ —

    Protea Hotels by Marriott (www.Marriott.com), part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 brands, today announced the opening of two new hotels in Africa: Protea by Marriott Delta in Nigeria and Protea by Marriott Lusaka International Airport in Zambia. These new additions highlight Protea Hotels by Marriott’s ongoing expansion on the continent, offering both business and leisure travellers contemporary comfort coupled with authentic local charm.

    “We are excited to expand our footprint in Africa with the opening of these two exceptional properties,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President of Premium & Select Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International. “Both hotels are designed to provide a perfect blend of modern amenities and an enriching connection to local culture. These launches further affirm our commitment to delivering the signature African hospitality and personal service that defines Protea Hotels by Marriott, while benefiting from the reach of Marriott International’s global network.”

    Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta, Nigeria

    Located in the heart of Ekpan Warri’s business district, Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta is just a 15-minute drive from Osubi Airport and strategically located near the region’s oil and gas hub. The hotel features 69 contemporary guestrooms and three well-equipped conference rooms suited to both intimate business meetings and large corporate events.

    Culinary offerings include Delta Restaurant, an all-day restaurant serving up an array of local and international cuisines, as well as a lobby and pool bar where guests can unwind with drinks at the end of the day. Other facilities include the Oriki Spa, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre.

    Protea Hotel by Marriott Lusaka International Airport, Zambia

    Located just minutes from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Protea Hotel by Marriott Lusaka International Airport offers an ideal blend of comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travellers visiting Zambia’s bustling capital, Lusaka.

    The hotel boasts 72 elegantly designed guest rooms, complemented by an all-day restaurant offering a fusion of local and international cuisine. Guests can relax at the bar or unwind by the outdoor pool and fitness centre. Complimentary airport shuttles ensure hassle-free transfers, adding to the seamless experience. For business needs or social gatherings, the hotel offers a range of flexible meeting facilities, including six boardrooms and two meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 104 people combined, making it a prime venue for corporate meetings, workshops, and events.

    With these latest additions, Protea Hotels by Marriott continues to grow its presence across Africa, now boasting more than 60 properties across nine countries, including Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. With a wide-ranging footprint across both business hubs and leisure destinations, Protea Hotels by Marriott remains a top choice for travellers looking to experience the best of Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: The Eclipse Foundation Launches ThreadX Alliance to Champion the Growth and Sustainability of the World’s First and Only Safety-Certified Open Source RTOS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source software foundations, has announced the launch of the ThreadX Alliance, a new initiative dedicated to ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the Eclipse ThreadX real-time operating system (RTOS) and its dynamic ecosystem. ThreadX, the world’s first and only safety-certified open source RTOS, powers billions of devices across a broad range of industries, including automotive, medical, aerospace, home appliances, and industrial controls.

    With ThreadX already a proven solution trusted by companies worldwide, the ThreadX Alliance ensures the ongoing sustainability of its robust code base, platform enhancements, and crucial safety certification efforts. By joining the alliance, organisations can access exclusive resources while contributing to the evolution of the next generation of embedded systems.

    “ThreadX is the only open source safety-certified RTOS on the market today, powering over 12 billion devices and trusted in a vast array of embedded applications,” said Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation. “The ThreadX Alliance is an important step in ensuring the platform’s future, allowing companies to actively support its sustainability while gaining valuable tools and resources to streamline their development efforts, reduce costs, and bring products to market.”

    Key benefits of joining the ThreadX Alliance include:

    • Exclusive Early Access to the ThreadX Marketplace: Be first in line to access the future ThreadX marketplace, including pre-sales and pre-development support from leading service providers.
    • Access to Safety Manuals: Unlock read-only, non-commercial access to essential safety manuals, offering critical insights to enhance your development processes.
    • Licensing Opportunities for Safety Certifications: Gain access to licensing agreements for ThreadX safety artefacts (additional fees apply), accelerating your products’ functional safety certifications.
    • Exclusive Marketing and Branding Opportunities: Proudly display the ThreadX Alliance participant logo to showcase your commitment to the growth and sustainability of the industry’s only safety-certified open source RTOS.

    The launch of the ThreadX Alliance represents a significant leap forward in supporting the open source embedded systems ecosystem, especially in industries where safety and reliability are critical. Companies looking to take part in this influential community are invited to visit threadxalliance.org to learn more about how to contribute to and benefit from the program.

    About Eclipse ThreadX
    Eclipse ThreadX (formerly Azure RTOS) is the world’s first and only safety-certified open source real-time operating system (RTOS), and has been trusted by industries for over two decades. Deployed in over 12 billion devices since its launch in 1997, ThreadX offers an MIT-licensed, robust, modular platform that includes advanced subcomponents for graphical interfaces (GUIX), networking (NetX Duo), file storage (FileX), and USB connectivity (USBX). To learn more about how ThreadX powers next-generation embedded systems, visit threadx.io.

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 420 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 385 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    514 Media Ltd (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    Nichols Communications (Global Press Contact)
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bybit and Nordic Blockchain Association Collaborate to Drive Innovation in the Nordic Blockchain Ecosystem

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, announced a strategic partnership with the Nordic Blockchain Association (NBA), the driving force behind the largest blockchain and Web3 conference in the Nordics. This collaboration aims to strengthen ties within the regional ecosystem while fostering international partnerships that will drive innovation and growth across the industry.

    The partnership comes at a pivotal time as the NBA continues its efforts to build a cohesive and vibrant blockchain community in the region. The association’s work, led by dedicated steering committees, has been instrumental in providing guidance and strategic direction to the local blockchain landscape. These committees have focused on addressing the challenges facing blockchain adoption, promoting education, and offering support to startups and established businesses alike.

    A key aspect of this partnership will be the upcoming Nordic Blockchain Conference 2025 (NBC25), which will take place next summer. As the largest blockchain and Web3 event in the Nordics, NBC25 promises to bring together thought leaders, innovators, and visionaries from around the world. The event will provide a platform to explore the latest trends, discuss regulatory frameworks, and highlight groundbreaking solutions that are reshaping the future of blockchain technology.

    “We’re excited to partner with the Nordic Blockchain Association. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to supporting the growth of blockchain ecosystems worldwide. We look forward to contributing to the region’s innovation and development,” added Helen Liu, Chief Operating Officer at Bybit.

    “We are excited that such a large and important international company as Bybit has joined the Nordic Blockchain Association as a member. This once again shows that the Nordic region has an important role to play in the global blockchain ecosystem. We look forward to creating value, raising awareness, and promoting education with our new community partner, Bybit,” said Jakob Mikkel Hansen, CEO & Board Member of Nordic Blockchain Association.

    With this partnership, Bybit is set to play a pivotal role in advancing the Nordic blockchain ecosystem, fostering collaboration between local and international partners, and supporting the NBA’s ongoing efforts to address the evolving needs of the industry.

    Bybit and the NBA are committed to working hand-in-hand to elevate the region’s role as a key player in the global blockchain and Web3 landscape.

    About Bybit

    Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving over 50 million users. Established in 2018, Bybit provides a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One’s reigning Constructors’ and Drivers’ champions: the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.

    For more details about Bybit, users can visit Bybit Press

    For media inquiries, users can contact: media@bybit.com

    For more information, users can visit: https://www.bybit.com

    For updates, users can follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

    Contact

    Head of PR
    Tony Au
    Bybit
    tony.au@bybit.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Beam Global EV ARC™ Systems Continue to Provide Essential Power during Hurricane Helene

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beam Global (Nasdaq: BEEM), a leading provider of innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions for the electrification of transportation and energy security, today announced its EV ARC™ systems in the south eastern United States continued to operate during Hurricane Helene. For example, EV ARC™ systems at the Bay Pines Florida Veterans Affairs Health Care in Big Bend, an area located in the direct path of Hurricane Helene, remained operational, sending data and continuing to provide a vital source of emergency power throughout the storm even while submerged in eight feet of storm surge.

    Hurricane Helene made a historic landfall in Big Bend, Florida as one of the most powerful storms to hit the state. The Category 4 hurricane brought up to eight-foot storm surges and 140 mph winds, leaving nearly one million Florida residents without power.

    Designed to endure extreme weather conditions, Beam Global EV ARC™ charging infrastructure is independently rated to withstand winds of up to 165 mph and can operate effectively in up to 9.5 feet of flooding. These systems come equipped with an optional Emergency Power Panel, which offers 120v and 240v outlets for use by first responders and authorized personnel when utility power is not available. EV ARC™ systems are designated by the federal General Services Administration (GSA) as disaster preparedness response and recovery products due to energy security and resiliency capabilities during grid outages and natural or man-made disasters.

    “Hurricane Helene tested our EV ARC product like never before, and it did not disappoint,” said Beam Global CEO Desmond Wheatley. “Even when the systems were buffeted by hurricane winds and submerged in eight feet of water with waves crashing over them, these vital infrastructure products continued to operate. Our customers were able to log in remotely and verify that the systems remained online throughout the storm, providing essential power. Beam Global’s products are becoming more and more relevant as global electricity demand increases and the job of providing it the traditional way becomes more challenging because of natural disasters and capacity constraints.”

    Beam Global EV ARC™ products have faced extreme storm conditions before. During last year’s Hurricane Idalia, EV ARC™ systems in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas continued to provide vital EV charging and emergency power in areas suffering from prolonged grid outages. Beam Global’s government and commercial customers were able to continue to charge their EVs and access the emergency power panels to provide services to the broader community. It can often take days or weeks for utility power to be restored to affected areas. Beam Global’s products provide vital electrical energy during those periods whether they were there and survived the disaster or are delivered and rapidly deployed as a recovery asset post-event.

    The frequency and severity of climate disasters in the U.S. continues to significantly increase, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reporting a rise in billion-dollar weather and climate disasters from an average of 5.8 events per year in the 1980s to over 22 events annually in recent years. This trend underscores the urgent need for resilient, off-grid infrastructure solutions like EV ARC™ systems that can withstand extreme conditions and support communities during crises.

    To learn more about Beam Global products visit BeamForAll.com.

    About Beam Global
    Beam Global is a clean technology innovator which develops and manufactures sustainable infrastructure products and technologies. We operate at the nexus of clean energy and transportation with a focus on sustainable energy infrastructure, rapidly deployed and scalable EV charging solutions, safe energy storage and vital energy security. With operations in the U.S. and Europe, Beam Global develops, patents, designs, engineers and manufactures unique and advanced clean technology solutions that power transportation, provide secure sources of electricity, save time and money and protect the environment. Headquartered in San Diego with facilities in Chicago, Belgrade and Kraljevo, Beam Global has a deep patent portfolio and is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol BEEM. For more information visit BeamForAll.com, LinkedIn, YouTube and X (formerly Twitter).

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This Beam Global Press Release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements in this Press Release other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally accompanied by terms or phrases such as “estimate,” “project,” “predict,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “plan,” “intend,” “seek,” “goal,” “will,” “should,” “may,” or other words and similar expressions that convey the uncertainty of future events or results. These statements relate to future events or future results of operations. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause Beam Global’s actual results to be materially different from these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by law, Beam Global expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations:
    Core IR
    +1 516-222-2560
    IR@BeamForAll.com

    Media Contact:
    Skyya PR
    +1 651-335-0585
    Press@BeamForAll.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/93e37add-1e8d-406e-b310-aef9878be529

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Senate President Alvina Reynolds and Speaker Claudius J. Francis of Saint Lucia

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai meets Senate President Alvina Reynolds and Speaker Claudius J. Francis of Saint Lucia
    President Lai meets Senate President Alvina Reynolds and Speaker Claudius J. Francis of Saint Lucia
    2024-10-08

    On the morning of October 8, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Senate President Alvina Reynolds and Speaker Claudius J. Francis of Saint Lucia. In remarks, President Lai thanked the delegation for joining us to mark our National Day celebration, demonstrating the friendly relations between the governments and parliaments of our two countries. The president noted that Saint Lucia is one of Taiwan’s key allies in the Caribbean, and that over the years, our diplomatic alliance has continued to deepen as our bilateral cooperation in several areas has yielded fruitful results. He stated that going forward, Taiwan will continue to promote values-based diplomacy and economic diplomacy, and he expressed his hope that we will continue to enhance the well-being of our peoples and contribute more to global peace and prosperity.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    I extend a warm welcome to Senate President Reynolds and Speaker Francis as they visit Taiwan once again. It is a pleasure to have you and your delegation join us to mark our National Day Celebration. Your presence demonstrates the friendly relations between the governments and parliaments of our two countries.
    Saint Lucia is one of Taiwan’s key allies in the Caribbean. It has continued to voice support and call for Taiwan’s international participation at numerous international venues, including the Central American Parliament and the General Debate during this year’s United Nations General Assembly. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to the government and parliament of Saint Lucia.
    Taiwan and Saint Lucia share such universal values as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. Over the years, our diplomatic alliance has continued to deepen. At the same time, bilateral cooperation in such areas as the economy, agriculture, and education has yielded fruitful results. In working toward post-pandemic economic recovery, Taiwan and Saint Lucia have cooperated on promoting vocational training and empowerment projects for women and the youth. This has helped enhance industrial processing technology, boosted the competitiveness of goods, and created even more job opportunities.
    Furthermore, with regard to the cultivation of talent, Taiwan’s youth ambassadors visited Saint Lucia last year and shared their experiences with local students. I thank Senate President Reynolds and Speaker Francis for their warm reception of our students. And I believe that the ongoing promotion of bilateral projects designed to nurture talent will facilitate even more cooperation and exchanges.
    In closing, I want to thank you all for your longstanding support for our diplomatic relations. Going forward, Taiwan will continue to promote values-based diplomacy, strengthening ties with Saint Lucia. We will also engage in economic diplomacy, spurring further industrial development together with our democratic partners and Saint Lucia for the benefit of our peoples. Let us move forward together as we continue to enhance the well-being of our peoples and contribute more to global peace and prosperity.
    Senate President Reynolds then delivered remarks, first extending greetings to President Lai from the government, people, and members of parliament of Saint Lucia. She extended sincere congratulations to President Lai on his election success, expressing her confidence that he will lead this great country into realizing greater success. 
    Senate President Reynolds remarked that it is her distinct honor to be back in our beautiful country once again, this time to join with us as we celebrate our 113th anniversary of National Day. She noted that they celebrate our great advancements in education, technology, trade and manufacturing, community development, health and wellness, arts and culture, climate, smart agriculture, sustainable development, and our values in diplomacy. 
    Senate President Reynolds pointed out that their visit is more than a symbol of the warm and friendly relations that Taiwan and Saint Lucia have enjoyed for many years; it is also a celebration and a reaffirmation of the deep diplomatic bonds that have existed between our peoples. Over the years, this partnership has significantly impacted the lives of Saint Lucians, especially the women, children, and persons with disabilities who are the most vulnerable among them.
    On behalf of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and the government and people of Saint Lucia, Senate President Reynolds offered their profound gratitude for Taiwan’s kind generosity over the years. She added that as Taiwan prospers and shares selflessly with the rest of the world, Saint Lucia has also benefited. Taiwan’s kind gestures, she noted, contribute to improving the lives and livelihoods of so many Saint Lucians. 
    As a former minister for health and member of parliament in Saint Lucia, Senate President Reynolds said that she was able to see firsthand the significant contributions that Taiwan has made and continues to make to Saint Lucia’s health sector. This includes, she said, the scholarships Taiwan offers to many young Saint Lucians to pursue studies in the field of medicine. She added that Taiwan has also offered opportunities for biomedical, health promotion, and health technology training, and that it has given professional assistance for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
    In closing, Senate President Reynolds once again expressed gratitude to the people of Taiwan. Stating that she looks forward to us continuing to work together for the further growth and development of the peoples of Saint Lucia and Taiwan, she wished Taiwan a happy National Day.
    Speaker Francis then delivered remarks, saying that he is honored to extend heartfelt congratulations to President Lai on his election as president. He said he is confident that in assuming this role of leadership, President Lai will guide our nation toward prosperity, peace, and progress. The speaker noted that Taiwan has long been a beacon of democracy, innovation, and resilience, and that it is a shining example to nations across the globe. He added that our strides in areas such as technology, healthcare, and sustainable development have not only elevated Taiwan’s standing but have also inspired admiration and respect worldwide.
    Speaker Francis expressed gratitude on behalf of the government and people of Saint Lucia for the unwavering support that Taiwan has extended to their nation. Through partnerships in healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure, Taiwan has stood by them, he said, fostering growth and enriching the lives of all Saint Lucians. He emphasized that Taiwan’s generosity and friendship have made a tangible difference in Saint Lucia, enabling them to achieve significant milestones and overcome challenges together. That spirit of collaboration between our two nations, he noted, serves as a testament to the enduring bonds of solidarity and shared values that unite us.
    Speaker Francis stated that the resilience and determination demonstrated by Taiwan in the face of global challenges exemplify the spirit of leadership and compassion that defines a true partner on the world stage. The speaker expressed his hope that we will reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand towards a brighter, more inclusive future for both of our countries, and that together we can forge paths of progress, equity, and sustainability that leave a lasting impact on generations to come. He then expressed his wish for our partnership to continue to flourish, nurturing a legacy of friendship for both Taiwan and Saint Lucia.
    Also in attendance at the meeting was Saint Lucia Senator Embert Charles. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Saint Lucia Ambassador Robert Kennedy Lewis.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Reporters Without Borders One of the last journalists still reporting from northern Gaza was killed.

    Source: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) (Video Release)

    #Gaza: Hassan Hamad, one of the last journalists still reporting from the northern enclave, was killed yesterday, in a targeted Israeli strike, according to RSF’s information, as he was about to send footage from home after a report.

    Before the strike, the freelance reporter had been covering an Israeli incursion into the camp for Media Town, which began on Saturday night. According to his X account, his last messages were published shortly before his death.

    In the preceding months, Hassan Hamad had told his colleagues and others that he had received threats in the form of a text message on his phone on May 13, 2024, and multiple phone calls ordering him to leave the northern Gaza Strip or risk being killed. The young reporter refused to comply and continued to work until his final moments.

    The tragic death of Hassan Hamad marks the disappearance of one of the last accessible sources of information in the north of the Gaza Strip. Impunity must end.

    #israel #tsahal #israelgaza #israelgazawar #journalisme #tech #medias #humanrights #pressfreedom #journalists #journalism #pressfreedom #media #journalistes #press #journalismisnotacrime #rsf #israelistrikes

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5iBf2xLU3M

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA response to National Planning Policy Framework consultation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The CMA has published its response to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government consultation on planning system reform.

    Documents

    Details

    The CMA responded to the consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework and planning system, led by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

    The CMA’s response welcomes the government’s intent to reform to the planning system in England, as these reforms consider options we had identified in our Housebuilding Market Study.

    The response also sets out where the CMA thinks the UK government should consider further reform, particularly on reform of statutory consultees, taking steps to increase the variety of houses being built, and taking further steps to support small and medium housebuilders. It also urges the government to respond to our Market Study recommendations, and so tackle issues in private management of public amenities and issues in consumer protection for buyers of new build homes.

    For queries relating to the CMA’s response, please contact the CMA advocacy team by email at advocacy@cma.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 October 2024

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Angola: US President Biden must demand immediate release of five arbitrarily detained government critics  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    During his visit to Angola from 13 to 15 October, US President Joe Biden must demand Angolan President João Lourenço and his government immediately release five government critics arbitrarily detained for more than a year, four of whom have been tortured through deliberate denial of medical care, Amnesty International said. 

    President Biden must also demand President Lourenço and his government stop the four-year crackdown on peaceful protests which has killed dozens of people, including children, and seen more than 100 arbitrarily arrested during demonstrations. Angolan authorities must respect the rights of all people in the country. 

    “In President João Lourenço’s Angola, anyone who publicly criticizes the government risks arrest, torture or even death. If human rights are central to President Biden’s foreign policy, then he must demand Angola’s government immediately and unconditionally free the five arbitrarily detained government critics and end the crackdown on the right to protest,” said Deprose Muchena, Amnesty International Senior Director for Regional Human Rights Impact. 

    Police arrested Adolfo Campos, Hermenegildo Victor (known as Gildo das Ruas), Abraão Pedro Santos (known as Pensador) and Gilson Moreira (known as Tanaice Neutro) ahead of a protest against high fuel prices in September 2023. One month earlier, police arrested social media influencer Ana da Silva Miguel (known as Neth Nahara) after she broadcast a live TikTok video criticizing President Lourenço. Neth Nahara is featured in this year’s Write for Rights, Amnesty International’s biggest human rights campaign. 

    If human rights are central to President Biden’s foreign policy, then he must demand Angola’s government immediately and unconditionally free the five arbitrarily detained government critics and end the crackdown on the right to protest.

    Deprose Muchena, Amnesty International Senior Director for Regional Human Rights Impact

    Prison authorities have denied urgent medical care, including surgery, to Campos, Gildo das Ruas and Tanaice Neutro as their health has deteriorated, amounting to torture. They also held Tanaice in solitary confinement for 36 days. Prison guards prevented Neth Nahara from accessing her daily antiretroviral medication for the first eight months of her detention. 

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers Opening Remarks at the 2024 ASEAN Business & Investment Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon delivered opening remarks at the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) under this year’s theme, “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience” in Vientiane, Lao PDR. Dr. Kao emphasised the importance of the business community in supporting innovation, competitiveness and creativity. Dr. Kao also highlighted the potential of exploring new untapped business opportunities, strengthening ASEAN’s connectivity and building resilience for a more inter-connected prosperous future.

    Download the full remarks here.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers Opening Remarks at the 2024 ASEAN Business & Investment Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Growing nuclear industry and recent acquisition continue to strengthen Calian nuclear results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OTTAWA, Ontario, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Calian Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY) has announced it secured a number of new contracts in the fourth quarter for its nuclear and environmental services division, marking significant growth in the last quarter of FY2024 ending on September 30. The new contracts—19 in total—represent a 58% increase over Q3 FY2024, primarily driven by the successful integration of MDA’s nuclear assets and strong organic growth.

    The acquisition of MDA’s nuclear division in March 2024 has allowed Calian to capitalize on increased synergies across its nuclear business, through the addition of engineering, tooling and robotics expertise, enhancing its capacity to deliver comprehensive, end-to-end solutions for Canada’s growing nuclear sector. The new contracts span major new nuclear projects in Ontario, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick, supporting life-extension programs for Canada’s existing nuclear facilities and support for next-generation technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs). This expansion has also led to a doubling of the division’s workforce to meet the growing demand for FY2025.

    “The integration of MDA’s nuclear assets has been pivotal in expanding our capabilities and market reach within the nuclear sector,” said Patrick Houston, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Development Officer, Calian. “This strategic acquisition has enabled us to deliver more robust and comprehensive solutions for our clients, further strengthening Calian’s position as a leader in nuclear services. Our Q4 contract signings highlight the increasing trust that our clients place in us to provide cutting-edge, safe and reliable solutions in an industry critical to achieving global sustainability goals.”

    The global nuclear energy market continues to grow, driven by the demand for clean, sustainable energy to address climate change. In Canada, the federal government’s 2024 budget reinforced its commitment to nuclear energy as a key tool in reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Calian’s nuclear and environmental services division is committed to supporting this national effort, particularly in delivering advanced solutions for reactor refurbishments and SMR developments.

    “Calian is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of Canada’s nuclear sector,” said Hani Al Anid, Vice President, Calian Nuclear. “With our expertise and highly skilled team, we can continue to meet the vital demands of our current and future customers and support the needs of both existing and next-generation nuclear projects in Canada and around the world.”

    Calian’s nuclear and environmental services division provides a comprehensive range of services covering the entire nuclear lifecycle. This includes safety analysis, licensing, emergency preparedness, environmental protection, decommissioning, waste management, and cutting-edge systems engineering and robotics. As an approved supplier for all CANDU nuclear utilities in Canada, Calian’s nuclear and environmental services division has a proven track record of ensuring the safety and sustainability of Canada’s nuclear infrastructure for over 25 years.

    To learn more, visit the Calian nuclear and environmental services web page on calian.com.

    About Calian
    http://www.calian.com
    We keep the world moving forward. Calian® helps people communicate, innovate, learn and lead safe and healthy lives. Every day, our employees live our values of customer commitment, integrity, innovation, respect and teamwork to engineer reliable solutions that solve complex challenges. That’s Confidence. Engineered. A stable and growing 40-year company, we are headquartered in Ottawa with offices and projects spanning North American, European and international markets. Visit calian.com to learn about innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions.

    Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

    Media inquiries:
    media@calian.com
    613-599-8600 x 2298

    Investor Relations inquiries:
    ir@calian.com


    DISCLAIMER

    Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Company’s most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.

    Calian · Head Office · 770 Palladium Drive · Ottawa · Ontario · Canada · K2V 1C8
    Tel: 613.599.8600 · Fax: 613-592-3664 · General info email: info@calian.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat Satellite Networks Awarded approximately $4 Million Contract to Provide Connectivity for rural areas in Latin America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (Nasdaq: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions, and services, announced today that it has secured approximately $4 Million contract to provide rural connectivity including banking transactions in Latin America for a period of 3 years.

    Gilat provides critical connectivity for people living in remote areas who rely on the bank for payment services, as well as support services for senior citizens, families, and other underserved populations.

    Gilat provides satellite communications solutions to distant branches, as well as satellite backup links, to ensure connectivity and business continuity. This is critical for the bank’s operation for core banking, e-mail, security, ATMs and Point of Sale.

    “We are very pleased to support essential banking services in the rural areas of Latin America,” stated Ron Levin, Gilat’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Over the years, we have built a robust satellite network, continuously enhancing it with the latest technological advancements. This ensures that we consistently meet the high-quality standards required for business continuity, even in remote areas and in the face of potential disasters.”

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we create and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground, and new space connectivity and provide comprehensive, secure end-to-end solutions and services for mission-critical operations, powered by our innovative technology. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Our portfolio includes a diverse offering to deliver high-value solutions for multiple orbit constellations with very high throughput satellites (VHTS) and software-defined satellites (SDS). Our offering is comprised of a cloud-based platform and high-performance satellite terminals; high-performance Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s comprehensive offering supports multiple applications with a full portfolio of products and tailored solutions to address key applications including broadband access, mobility, cellular backhaul, enterprise, defense, aerospace, broadcast, government, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: http://www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to the current terrorist attacks by Hamas, and the war and hostilities between Israel and Hamas, and Israel and Hezbollah and Iran; and other factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Gilat’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements in this release are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions contained in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and Gilat undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks
    Hagay Katz, Chief Products and Marketing Officer
    Hagayk@gilat.com

    EK Global IR
    Ehud Helft, Managing Partner
    ehud@ekgir.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat Secures $1.6 Million In Contracts for its FlightWave Edge 130 Blue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat”), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, today announced it secured $1.6 million in contracts for Edge 130 Blue drones, FlightWave’s Blue UAS approved military-grade tricopter to the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP). The contract was secured through Darley, a leading distributor of equipment and technology to first responders and the military, and was coordinated for procurement by the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) on behalf of CBP.

    FlightWave, an industry-leading provider of VTOL drone, sensor and software solutions was acquired by Red Cat in September 2024. The acquisition brings FlightWave’s flagship drone, the Edge 130 Blue into its family of low-cost, portable unmanned reconnaissance and precision lethal strike systems. FlightWave’s size, weight and vertical take off capabilities makes it ideal for maritime operations and littoral environments. FlightWave’s recent TACFI award will accelerate advanced enhancements to the Edge 130 Blue.

    “We are excited to continue our relationship with the U.S. Customs & Border Protection, the largest federal law enforcement agency that already uses our Teal 2 drones for enhanced situational awareness with supplemental airborne reconnaissance, surveillance and tracking,” said Jeff Thompson, Red Cat CEO. “Following our playbook from the acquisition and growth of our flagship Teal drones, we are well positioned to scale up production and get the Edge 130 Blue into the hands of our current customers like the CBP, as well as other security and defense forces around the world.”

    The Edge 130 Blue is a UAS-certified military-grade tricopter for long-range mapping, inspection, surveillance, and reconnaissance needs. Designed specifically for government and military applications, the Edge 130 Blue can be assembled and hand-launched in just one minute by a single user to capture high-accuracy aerial imagery with medium-range autonomy. Weighing in at only 1200g, the Edge has a 60+ minute flight time in forward mode, an industry-leading endurance among all other Blue UAS-approved drones available.

    About Red Cat, Inc.
    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a bleeding-edge Family of ISR and Precision Strike Systems including the Teal 2, a small unmanned system offering the highest-resolution thermal imaging in its class, the Edge 130 Blue Tricopter for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at http://www.redcat.red.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2023. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Lindsay Grider Joins Braemont Capital as Partner and Head of Capital Partnerships

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Braemont Capital (“Braemont” or the “Firm”), a relationship-driven investment firm that partners with exceptional companies at growth inflection points, today announced that Lindsay Grider has joined the Firm as Partner and Head of Capital Partnerships. Ms. Grider will lead Braemont’s capital formation, fundraising, and investor engagement initiatives, as well as continued strategy development.

    Ms. Grider comes to Braemont with nearly two decades of experience building fundraising and investor relations programs as well as developing fund formation and strategy initiatives. She previously served as Global Head of Fundraising and Investor Relations at Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (“LLCP”) where she led investor engagement, capital raising and strategic marketing efforts. Prior to joining LLCP, Ms. Grider was Head of Investor Relations for Tailwater Capital and Director of Investor Relations at NGP Energy Capital Management.

    Robert Covington, Founder and Managing Partner, said, “Lindsay is one of the most respected investor relations professionals in our industry and will bring a wealth of experience, insight and innovation to both our capital raising and the strategic leadership of our firm. Lindsay brings a long track record of serving as a trusted partner to investors all over the world and her addition furthers Braemont’s commitment to serving as the preferred partner for families and founders and for our investors for years to come. We are delighted to welcome her to the Firm.”

    Ms. Grider commented, “I am thrilled to join Robert and the Braemont team at such an exciting time. Braemont is known for its distinct investing approach and commitment to its partners, and I continue to be impressed with what the team has been able to achieve in such a short period. I look forward to working closely with the Firm’s network to execute fundraising and co-investment strategies to support our investments and drive excellent outcomes for all our partners.”

    Ms. Grider previously worked as Director at Sterling Stamos and began her career at Citigroup and Wachovia Securities in their investment banking divisions. She serves as a Senior Advisor to 3P Energy Capital and has served on the boards of several industry and charitable organizations at a local and national level. She holds a B.A. in International Commerce from Vanderbilt University.

    About Braemont Capital
    Braemont Capital is a relationship-driven investment firm focused on partnering with founders, families and ownership-minded management teams to invest in exceptional companies at growth inflection points. Our firm is differentiated by the combination of an experienced team, extensive industry partner network and a flexible, long-term capital base. We are growth-oriented and seek to generate superior outcomes through entrepreneurial business-building initiatives. Our capital base enables us to be flexible in structuring and holding investments to execute these initiatives and create enduring value. For more information, please visit: http://www.Braemont.com or http://www.linkedin.com/company/braemont-capital.

    The information contained herein has been prepared solely for informational purposes and is not an offer to buy or sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy and may not be used or relied upon in connection with any offer or sale of securities. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Braemont Capital Management, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    For Braemont media inquiries, please contact:
    Gagnier Communications
    Dan Gagnier
    Braemont@gagnierfc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Greenbacker broadens fundraising capabilities with new senior business development hires

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Greenbacker Capital Management (“GCM” and, together with its affiliates, “Greenbacker”), an energy transition-focused investment manager, is pleased to announce that it has expanded its distribution and fundraising capabilities, particularly in markets where Greenbacker is seeing increasing investor demand for sustainable investments. As senior members of the business development team, Adam Evans, CAIA, CIMA and John Hennessey broaden Greenbacker’s ability to offer individual and institutional investors the opportunity—across all distribution channels—to participate in the energy transition.

    “With Greenbacker’s evolving set of strategies, the timing couldn’t be better to add these two individuals, and their wealth of experience, to the distribution side of our business,” said Brandon Praznik, Greenbacker’s Executive Vice President of Business Development. “The strategic additions of Adam and John bolster our capital raising efforts as Greenbacker seeks to execute on its growth targets and capitalize on the energy transition opportunity set for our investors.”

    Evans is an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience distributing financial services products to institutional and retail investors. As a senior vice president on Greenbacker’s business development team, he is responsible for the distribution of company strategies through all distribution channels in the Central US. Prior to Greenbacker, Evans served as a director within the financial institutions group at Lazard Asset Management, before which he held the role of business development director at Cushing Asset Management. In both roles, Evans was responsible for distributing firm strategies to the registered investment advisor (“RIA”), bank trust, and family office channels, including securing investment in new strategies.

    Hennessey is a seasoned business development professional, bringing to Greenbacker 15 years of experience marketing and distributing investment strategies to the RIA, family office, and institutional channels. As a vice president on Greenbacker’s business development team, he is responsible for the distribution of company strategies through all channels, with a focus on the Southeastern US. Previously in his career, Hennessey served as a director at Chicago Atlantic Group and a vice president at Merit Hill Capital; at both firms, he was responsible for business development, covering the RIA, family office, and institutional channels.

    The two join the company during a period of expansion and transformation for Greenbacker. Greenbacker’s latest quarterly results highlight substantial year-over-year growth in revenue and clean power production, as well as a 30% increase in fee-earning AUM,1 bringing the total to $762 million. As of the end of the second quarter, the company’s aggregate AUM2 had reached $3.7 billion.

    Greenbacker also recently expanded its investments team following the launch of GCM’s fourth sustainability-driven investment strategy, focused on Energy Transition Real Estate. Earlier this year, Greenbacker announced it added three new members to its leadership team, including a new Chief Financial Officer and the newly created Head of Infrastructure and Head of Capital Markets positions. Late last year, the company expanded its private equity investment team, adding a managing director to its Greenbacker Development Opportunities (“GDEV”) strategy, which invests in growth-stage sustainable infrastructure development platforms.

    GCM serves as the SEC-registered investment manager to four energy transition-focused investment strategies. Greenbacker remains committed to empowering a sustainable future by putting investor capital to work in the energy transition asset class. As of June 30, 2024, Greenbacker’s fleet of clean energy projects has produced over 10.7 million MWh of clean power3 since 2016, abating nearly 7.5 million metric tons of carbon4 and conserving approximately 7.4 billion gallons of water,5 compared to the amount of water needed to produce the same amount of power by burning coal.

    About Greenbacker Capital Management
    Greenbacker Capital Management LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser that provides advisory and oversight services related to project development, acquisition, and operations in the renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability industries. For more information, please visit https://greenbackercapital.com.

    About Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company
    Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company LLC is a publicly reporting, non-traded limited liability sustainable infrastructure company that both acquires and manages income-producing renewable energy and other energy-related businesses, including solar and wind farms, and provides investment management services to other renewable energy investment vehicles. We seek to acquire and operate high-quality projects that sell clean power under long-term contracts to high-creditworthy counterparties such as utilities, municipalities, and corporations. We are long-term owner-operators, who strive to be good stewards of the land and responsible members of the communities in which we operate. Greenbacker conducts its investment management business through its wholly owned subsidiary, Greenbacker Capital Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. We believe our focus on power production and asset management creates value that we can then pass on to our shareholders—while facilitating the transition toward a clean energy future. For more information, please visit https://greenbackercapital.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to differ materially from those anticipated at the time the forward-looking statements are made. Although Greenbacker believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that the expectations will be attained or that any deviation will not be material. Greenbacker undertakes no obligation to update and forward-looking statement contained herein to conform to actual results or changes in its expectations.

    Greenbacker media contact
    Chris Larson
    Media Communications
    646.569.9532
    c.larson@greenbackercapital.com


    1 Fee-earning AUM represents the asset base upon which management fee revenue is earned from GCM’s managed funds. The financial and portfolio metrics set forth herein are unaudited and subject to change.
    2 Aggregate AUM includes GREC and GCM’s managed funds. AUM represents the underlying fair value of investments, determined generally in accordance with ASC 820, cash and cash equivalents and project level debt. These figures are unaudited and subject to change.
    3 As of June 30, 2024.
    4 As of June 30, 2024. When compared with a similar amount of power generation from fossil fuels. Carbon abatement is calculated using the EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator which uses the Avoided Emissions and generation Tool (AVERT) US national weighted average CO2 marginal emission rate to convert reductions of kilowatt-hours into avoided units of carbon dioxide emissions.
    5 As of June 30, 2024. Gallons of water saved are calculated based on Operational water consumption and withdrawal factors for electricity generating technologies: a review of existing literature – IOPscience, J Macknick et al 2012 Environ. Res. Lett. 7 045802.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NextGen Digital Advances Development of Cloud AI Hosting Platform and PCSections.com

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREDERICTON, New Brunswick, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextGen Digital Platforms Inc. (“NextGen” or the “Company”) (CSE: NXT) is pleased to provide an update on recent and ongoing developments at its two core businesses, namely e-commerce platform PCSections.com (“PCS”) and the cloud-based hardware-as-a-service leasing business (“Cloud AI Hosting”). Both platforms continue to be upgraded to improve scalability, performance, and operational efficiency, as the Company continues to drive forward its growth strategy.

    Cloud AI Hosting Buildout Trial

    The Company has engaged Logic V Inc. (“Logic V”), a Vancouver-based provider of cloud computing and IT services, to explore transitioning its Cloud AI Hosting business to a fully cloud-based model. This new approach would involve the Company virtually leasing a subset of computing workstations from larger cloud computing and/or datacentre providers, which the Company would then sublease to smaller third-party artificial intelligence end-users via the existing online portal already being used by Cloud AI Hosting. Virtually leasing this computing power, rather than building an in-house computing fleet, could provide significant scalability and operational benefits as the Company builds out this business line.

    Logic V is currently conducting a proof of work (the “POW”) to assess this transition. If successful, this new approach is expected to significantly enhance scalability and speed to market by eliminating the need for NextGen to acquire and operationalize physical workstations, thus avoiding risks associated with physical inventory, operational challenges, and the large upfront costs of workstation purchases and infrastructure upgrades.

    NextGen expects Logic V to complete the POW in the coming weeks, and in due course will provide an update on outcomes from the POW and the next phase of the Cloud AI Hosting buildout.

    PCS Platform Enhancements

    PCS is undergoing both front-end and back-end upgrades aimed at enhancing the overall user experience, site performance, and security. The upgrades to PCS include:

    • Design Enhancements: Updates to the color scheme, layout, pattern, and animations to improve visual appeal and usability.
    • Payment & Checkout Improvements: Optimization of the payment process for a more seamless and secure customer experience.
    • Security Measures: Implementation of techniques to bolster security against unauthorized access and potential vulnerabilities in the payment process.
    • Performance Boost: Improvements to the website’s loading speed and overall performance for faster browsing.
    • General Bug Fixes: Identification and resolution of bugs to ensure smoother operation.

    The front-end design improvements are expected to be completed soon, and the Company will continue to work on finalizing the back-end enhancements.

    Kevin Zhou, NextGen’s Director of Platforms & Marketing, stated, “Pursuing a cloud-based model for Cloud AI Hosting has the potential to be a more efficient and scalable path compared to our original plan of acquiring physical workstations. If the current POW is successful, we will immediately scale up our operations. If not, we are still able and funded to expand our current fleet of workstations, towards our goal of owning a total of 10 to 15 GPUs with enough computing power for our smaller-scale users. Regardless of the outcome, we anticipate expanding the operational capacity and revenue level of our Cloud AI Hosting business once Logic V completes the POW. Similarly, with the updates on PCS, we are aiming to improve its overall functionality and competitiveness as we continue to refine both platforms.”

    Joel Freudman, President & CEO of NextGen, added, “We are pleased with the development milestones being achieved across both our PCS and Cloud AI Hosting platforms. We remain committed to their continued growth to fuel NextGen’s development trajectory, and are exploring what other potential revenue streams and ancillary capabilities we may be able to derive by leveraging our existing infrastructure.”

    About NextGen Digital Platforms Inc.
    NextGen is a Canadian technology company specializing in the development and acquisition of revenue-generating micro-technology digital platforms. The Company currently operates e-commerce platform PCSections.com (“PCS”) and a hardware-as-a-service business supporting the artificial intelligence sector, called cloud AI hosting (“Cloud AI Hosting”). Both PCS and Cloud AI Hosting were developed in-house by NextGen. From time to time the Company also intends to evaluate and acquire or develop other micro-technology platforms.

    NextGen is a portfolio company of Resurgent Capital Corp. (“Resurgent”), a merchant bank providing venture capital markets advisory services and proprietary financing. Resurgent works with promising public and pre-public micro-capitalization companies listing on Canadian stock exchanges. For more information on Resurgent and its portfolio companies, please visit Resurgent’s website at https://www.resurgentcapital.ca/ or follow Resurgent on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/company/resurgent-capital-corp.

    For further information about NextGen, please contact:

    Joel Freudman
    Founder, President & CEO
    NextGen Digital Platforms Inc.
    Phone: (647) 368-7789
    Email: info@nextgendigital.ca
    Website: https://nextgendigital.ca/

    Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including those relating to the future development and revenue potential of PCS and Cloud AI Hosting; the POW for Cloud AI Hosting; and expected benefits of improvements to PCS and Cloud AI Hosting. These statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company’s business plans and technological development forecasts, and outcomes of the POW, that are believed by management to be reasonable in the circumstances, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including without limitation: technological and business risks inherent in artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and other emerging sectors that the Company is or may become involved in; operational and technical challenges; timeline for completion of the POW, and the outcomes therefrom, including as to revenue and/or profitability of Cloud AI Hosting; the Company’s ability to compete with other businesses in the e-commerce and/or cloud hosting markets; negative operating cash flow and insufficient capital to complete the development and/or expansion of any of the Company’s technologies; volatility in economic conditions; and those other risks described in the Company’s continuous disclosure documents. Actual results may differ materially from results contemplated by the forward-looking statements herein. Investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements herein except as required by applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ Launches Option Income Strategy ETF on Palantir Technologies (PLTR)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, Oct. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ announced the launch today of the following ETF:

    YieldMax™ PLTR Option Income Strategy ETF (NYSE Arca: PLTY)

    PLTY seeks to generate current income by pursuing options-based strategies on Palantir Technologies Inc. (“PLTR”). PLTY is actively managed by ZEGA Financial. PLTY does not invest directly in PLTR.

    PLTY is the newest member of the YieldMax™ ETF family and like all YieldMax™ ETFs, aims to deliver current income to investors. With respect to distributions, PLTY will be a Group B ETF and its first distribution is expected to be announced on November 6, 2024. Please see table below for distribution and yield information for all outstanding YieldMax™ ETFs.

    ETF
    Ticker
    1
    ETF Name Reference
    Asset
    Distribution
    Rate
    2,4,5
    30-Day
    SEC Yield
    3
    TSLY YieldMax™ TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF TSLA 115.53% 3.09%
    OARK YieldMax™ Innovation Option Income Strategy ETF ARKK 53.47% 3.37%
    APLY YieldMax™ AAPL Option Income Strategy ETF AAPL 31.19% 3.17%
    NVDY YieldMax™ NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF NVDA 65.43% 3.24%
    AMZY YieldMax™ AMZN Option Income Strategy ETF AMZN 41.70% 3.27%
    FBY YieldMax™ META Option Income Strategy ETF META 31.65% 3.22%
    GOOY YieldMax™ GOOGL Option Income Strategy ETF GOOGL 22.22% 3.28%
    NFLY YieldMax™ NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF NFLX 36.06% 3.45%
    CONY YieldMax™ COIN Option Income Strategy ETF COIN 97.94% 3.70%
    MSFO YieldMax™ MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF MSFT 27.17% 3.33%
    DISO YieldMax™ DIS Option Income Strategy ETF DIS 35.17% 3.41%
    XOMO YieldMax™ XOM Option Income Strategy ETF XOM 18.73% 3.32%
    JPMO YieldMax™ JPM Option Income Strategy ETF JPM 34.76% 3.60%
    AMDY YieldMax™ AMD Option Income Strategy ETF AMD 73.41% 3.24%
    PYPY YieldMax™ PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF PYPL 102.97% 2.94%
    SQY YieldMax™ SQ Option Income Strategy ETF SQ 86.71% 3.44%
    MRNY YieldMax™ MRNA Option Income Strategy ETF MRNA 71.92% 3.91%
    AIYY YieldMax™ AI Option Income Strategy ETF AI 47.26% 3.76%
    MSTY YieldMax™ MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF MSTR 81.35% 0.00%
    YBIT YieldMax™ Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF Bitcoin ETP 87.09% 4.07%
    CRSH YieldMax™ Short TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF TSLA 101.44% 3.61%
    GDXY YieldMax™ Gold Miners Option Income Strategy ETF GDX® 40.15% 3.27%
    SNOY YieldMax™ SNOW Option Income Strategy ETF SNOW 40.64% 3.44%
    ABNY YieldMax™ ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF ABNB 33.60% 2.84%
    FIAT YieldMax™ Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF COIN 110.90% 3.22%
    DIPS YieldMax™ Short NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF NVDA 87.48% 3.69%
    BABO YieldMax™ BABA Option Income Strategy ETF BABA 33.24% 2.62%
    YQQQ YieldMax™ Short N100 Option Income Strategy ETF NDX® 26.88% 3.63%
    TSMY YieldMax™ TSM Option Income Strategy ETF TSM 23.98% 3.48%
    SMCY* YieldMax™ SMCI Option Income Strategy ETF SMCI
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Multiple 61.63% 62.93%
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Multiple 45.17% 50.85%
    ULTY YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Multiple 113.94% 0.00%


    The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

    Note: CRSH, FIAT, DIPS and YQQQ are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs” and “ADR” stands for American Depositary Receipt.

    Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from month to month and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    * The inception date for SMCY is September 11, 2024.

    1. All YieldMax™ ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX and YMAG have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.24% but the investment adviser has agreed to a 0.10% fee waiver through at least February 28, 2025.
    2. The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on October 7, 2024. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recently declared distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by multiplying such distribution by twelve (12), and dividing the resulting amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.
    3. The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended September 30, 2024, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period. As of such date, the ULTY subsidized and unsubsidized 30-Day SEC Yields were 0.00% and 0.00%, respectively. The subsidized yield reflects fee waivers in effect while the unsubsidized yield does not adjust for any fee waivers in effect.
    4. Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.
    5. As of the date hereof, distributions for the following ETFs have included return of investor capital: TSLY, OARK, APLY, AMZY, NVDY, GOOY, JPMO, XOMO, PYPY, CONY, DISO, FBY, MSFO, NFLY, SQY, AMDY, MRNY, AIYY, MSTY, ULTY, YMAX, YMAG, YBIT, SNOY, CRSH and GDXY. For additional information, please visit http://www.YieldMaxETFs.com/TaxInfo.

    Standardized Performance

    For TSLY, click here. For OARK, click here. For APLY, click here. For NVDY, click here. For AMZY, click here. For FBY, click here. For GOOY, click here. For NFLY, click here. For CONY, click here. For MSFO, click here. For DISO, click here. For XOMO, click here. For JPMO, click here. For AMDY, click here. For PYPY, click here. For SQY, click here. For MRNY, click here. For AIYY, click here. For MSTY, click here. For YBIT, click here. For CRSH, click here. For GDXY, click here. For SNOY, click here. For ABNY, click here. For FIAT, click here. For DIPS, click here. For BABO, click here. For YQQQ, click here. For TSMY, click here. For SMCY, click here. For YMAX, click here. For YMAG, click here. For ULTY, click here.

    Prospectuses

    Click here.

    Before investing you should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other information are in the prospectus. Please read the prospectuses carefully before you invest.

    There is no guarantee that any Fund’s investment strategy will be properly implemented, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment in any such Fund.

    Contact Gavin Filmore at gfilmore@tidalfg.com for more information.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs and ZEGA Financial is their sub-adviser.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND SUB-ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERNCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX and YMAG generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer time periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given month. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer time periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given month. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given time period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    Holdings

    As of October 7, 2024, the YieldMax™ PLTR Option Income Strategy ETF did not hold any shares of Palantir Technologies Inc. (“PLTR”). As of such date, the holdings of PLTR in such fund were 0.00%.

    YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, YieldMax™ ETFs or ZEGA Financial.

    © 2024 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Landsbankinn hf.: Tender offer results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Landsbankinn hf. announced today the results of a tender offer published on 30 September 2024 where holders of its EUR 2025 notes (ISIN: XS2306621934) were invited to tender their notes for purchase by the bank against a cash payment. The tender offer was subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the tender offer memorandum.

    The bank received valid tenders of EUR 124,731,000 of which all were accepted.

    Dealer managers are ABN AMRO Bank, J.P. Morgan, Natixis and Nomura.

    Further information on the tender offer results is available in the announcement made public on Euronext Dublin (http://www.ise.ie) where the bonds are listed.

    This announcement is released by Landsbankinn hf. and contains information that qualified or may have qualified as inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (“MAR”), encompassing information relating to the Offer described above. For the purposes of MAR and Article 2 of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/1055, this announcement is made by Hreiðar Bjarnason, Chief Financial Officer for Landsbankinn hf.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Breach of the rule of law and the fundamental rights of inmates in Italy’s prisons – E-001665/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001665/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sandro Ruotolo (S&D), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Alessandro Zan (S&D), Marco Tarquinio (S&D), Pina Picierno (S&D)

    The state of affairs in Italy’s prisons has become a genuine emergency. Inmates continue to live and work in inhuman and degrading conditions.

    According to a report by the national prisoners’ ombudsman dated 18 August 2024, there are 61 465 prisoners in Italy although there are only 46 898 lawfully available places in its prisons. The overcrowding index stands at 131%, with almost 80% of the total number of prisons having more prisoners than permitted. These figures unfortunately also include establishments for juveniles.

    In some institutions, prisoners are forced to live in less than 3 square metres, in serious violation of the standards set by the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

    The increase in suicides among prisoners and prison officers is just one of the tragic consequences. Since the beginning of the year alone there have been 70 suicides among inmates and seven among prison officers, one every three days.

    Given the gravity and urgency of this state of affairs, can the Commission say what action it intends to take to help enforce the rule of law and uphold the fundamental rights of inmates and officers in Italian prisons?

    Submitted: 10.9.2024

    Last updated: 8 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Public hearing on “Simplification and Transparency” – 17-10-2024 – Subcommittee on Tax Matters

    Source: European Parliament

    On 17 October 2024, from 9:00 to 10:30, the FISC Subcommittee will host a public hearing on “Simplification and transparency: Role of simplified tax policy to encourage growth, job creation, competitiveness and cross-border business within the EU”.

    Over the past years, stakeholders have been raising more and more concerns about compliance costs and administrative burden. At the same time, the recent publication of two reports, one by Enrico Letta and one by Mario Draghi, have ignited a new debate on how to improve the competitiveness of the EU’s economy in the aftermath of the COVID-pandemic and the economic hardships caused by the war in Ukraine.

    Against this background, this public hearing will gather information and discuss in which ways reducing both taxpayers’ tax compliance and governmental administrative costs could foster cross-border business, increase competitiveness, and eventually lead to more job creation and economic growth.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public hearing on “Simplification and Transparency” – Subcommittee on Tax Matters

    Source: European Parliament

    On 17 October 2024, from 9:00 to 10:30, the FISC Subcommittee will host a public hearing on “Simplification and transparency: Role of simplified tax policy to encourage growth, job creation, competitiveness and cross-border business within the EU”.

    Over the past years, stakeholders have been raising more and more concerns about compliance costs and administrative burden. At the same time, the recent publication of two reports, one by Enrico Letta and one by Mario Draghi, have ignited a new debate on how to improve the competitiveness of the EU’s economy in the aftermath of the COVID-pandemic and the economic hardships caused by the war in Ukraine.

    Against this background, this public hearing will gather information and discuss in which ways reducing both taxpayers’ tax compliance and governmental administrative costs could foster cross-border business, increase competitiveness, and eventually lead to more job creation and economic growth.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Maintenance work at Lake Trasimeno – E-001893/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001893/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Valentina Palmisano (The Left), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Carolina Morace (The Left)

    Lake Trasimeno, located within a national park and part of the Natura 2000 network, is an ecosystem of high environmental value and a mainstay of the region’s economy, especially the tourism sector.

    EU Directives 2009/147/EC (‘Birds’) and 92/43/EEC (‘Habitats’ on biodiversity), although they are intended to safeguard natural habitats, make it difficult to maintain the lake, particularly owing to the impossibility of working on the lakebed which is the nesting ground for some protected species.

    This threatens to aggravate the already critical condition of the lake, which, as the only reservoir in Italy fed exclusively by rainwater, is suffering from the scarcity of rainfall caused by climate change, thus making the situation even harder to manage.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.How does the Commission intend to reconcile the protection of biodiversity with the need for maintenance work to preserve Lake Trasimeno’s ecological functions and value for the tourism sector?
    • 2.Does it intend to look into the possibility of introducing specific guidelines for essential maintenance work in ecologically sensitive situations while ensuring the protection of species protected under Directives 2009/147/EC and 92/43/EEC?
    • 3.What technical and financial support measures can the Commission propose to address this situation?

    Submitted: 1.10.2024

    Last updated: 8 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission proposal for a regulation on packaging and packaging waste – erroneous corrigendum – P-001968/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001968/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kateřina Konečná (NI), Ondřej Knotek (PfE), Klara Dostalova (PfE), Ondřej Dostál (NI), Jaroslav Bžoch (PfE), Ondřej Kovařík (PfE)

    We would like to raise the issue of the still pending proposal for a regulation on packaging and packaging waste, which should have been concluded by now.

    The text of the proposal was agreed by the Council and the Parliament at the end of the last term. However, there has been a significant shift in the meaning of the text in the final stage, when it undergoes linguistic correction (corrigendum). This process is intended solely to remove linguistic inaccuracies and typos.

    After the corrigendum, the following changes in meaning have appeared in the text:

    • Change in the definition of ‘producer’ (replacing ‘any’ with ‘the’).

    • New definition of ‘making available on the territory of the Member State’.

    • Substitution of the terms ‘consumer’ and ‘end-user’.

    • Mandatory labelling of packaging with the identification of the responsible organisation.

    • Replacement of ‘may’ with ‘must’.

    Preliminary estimates of the impact of these changes suggest that they would lead to significant economic impacts in the order of hundreds of millions of euros. Given that these clearly go beyond merely linguistic changes, when does the Commission plan to amend the text in a way that is consistent with the purpose of the corrigendum process and does not materially shift the outcome of the negotiations between Parliament and the Council?

    Submitted: 5.10.2024

    MIL OSI Europe News