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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investments in Indigenous Child Maltreatment and Youth Dating Violence Prevention

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    September 2024

    The Government of Canada is investing more than $5 million over five years to fund five Indigenous focused projects aimed at preventing child maltreatment and youth dating violence. These projects will help over 1,270 Indigenous children, youth, and families, as well as service providers, across Canada by providing them with the tools to build safe, supportive relationships.

    This funding will support a variety of initiatives across Canada, each focusing on cultural identity, healing, and promoting healthier relationships in Indigenous communities. The projects are designed to meet the unique needs of Indigenous youth and their families, while also addressing the intergenerational trauma and cycles of violence caused by colonization, racism, and the Residential School System.

    To prevent and address youth dating violence:

    • Infinity Women Secretariat Inc. is receiving $601,959 to explore and promote the use of Red River Métis culture in building healthy relationships among youth. This project will reach 210 Métis youth in Manitoba, helping them feel a sense of belonging and improving their confidence.
    • Legacy of Hope Foundation is receiving $555,015 to develop an online toolkit aimed at preventing dating violence. The toolkit will include Indigenous voices and perspectives and will feature online workshops for 300 Indigenous youth across Canada, creating safe spaces for conversations about healthy relationships.
    • Nunavut Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society is receiving $1.35 million to develop a dating violence prevention program for 320 Inuit youth with disabilities across Nunavut. The project will focus on teaching these youth about healthy relationships and how to prevent dating violence in a way that is culturally and developmentally appropriate.

    To prevent and address child maltreatment:

    • ILITAQSINIQ is receiving over $1.6 million to deliver two family strengthening programs in six communities across Nunavut. These programs will provide knowledge and skills on topics such as parenting, communication, and handling family dynamics, with the goal of helping 192 children and their caregivers.
    • Martin Family Initiative is receiving close to $1 million to adapt, deliver and evaluate their health and family well-being resources across Canada to better support over 250 early childhood professionals aimed at promoting positive parenting and contributing to the reduction of child maltreatment in the Indigenous communities they serve.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Are you a Destiel stan? There’s so much more to ‘shipping’ than wanting characters to kiss

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Effie Sapuridis, PhD Candidate in Media Studies, Western University

    Castiel, played by Misha Collins, and Dean Winchester, played by Jensen Ackles, in an episode of ‘Supernatural.’ Destiel is the slash ship between the two characters. (Apple TV)

    In 1993, X-Files fans began using the term “relationshippers” to describe fans who were invested in a romantic relationship between the two leads, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully.

    Although the practice of pairing two characters together had existed in fandom for a while, this is recognized as the first use of the term. By the late 1990s, “relationshipper” had been shortened to “shipper” and was being used in other major media fandoms as well.

    A ship refers to a romantic pairing between two or more characters, and is often a pairing that doesn’t actively exist in the original story. To “ship” a pairing is to support and enjoy the idea of that specific relationship.

    Top 11 Smulder moments from the X-Files YouTube channel.

    In the early 2000s, ships were often assigned nautical names, but now they are commonly portmanteaus of the two characters being paired — like Drarry, for Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy, or Spuffy for Buffy Summers and Spike.

    Many people can relate to seeing two characters interact and thinking, “they’d make a great couple!” But why do we become so invested in these relationships? And what makes some characters more shippable than others?

    No one’s 20s and 30s look the same. You might be saving for a mortgage or just struggling to pay rent. You could be swiping dating apps, or trying to understand childcare. No matter your current challenges, our Quarter Life series has articles to share in the group chat, or just to remind you that you’re not alone.

    Read more from Quarter Life:

    Why we become invested

    Shipping has become a massive part of fan culture. Even when writers and media producers don’t explicitly pair up characters, fans will fill the gaps, creating their own versions and interpretations.

    Fans often become deeply invested in fictional couples because they empathize with and feel connected to the characters.

    Well-developed characters evoke emotional responses in audiences, similar to the connections we forge with others in real life, especially when we’ve spent a lot of time engaging with the media. The characters become like friends on the screen or page — we become invested in their relationships and growth.

    This connection grows even more when characters are placed in relatable situations, such as navigating a breakup or unrequited love. When we can put ourselves in the shoes of the character, we become more invested in their story. Fans connect with characters, and then yearn for their happiness because it feels connected to their own happiness.

    It becomes more than just a story; instead, shipping the characters becomes a way for fans to explore their own emotions.

    The slow burn effect

    In recent decades, media producers and writers have leaned heavily into “will they or won’t they” relationships. These situations, much like a cliffhanger, keep audiences emotionally invested and engaged with the relationship.

    The anticipation keeps viewers coming back for more, waiting for the romantic payoff, even in cases when they know it will never happen. The tension built between characters and the feeling of an unresolved romantic narrative — whether intentional or not — heightens fan interest and engagement in shipping.

    Shipping also allows fans to project their own desires and fantasies onto a character. We all have our ideal meet-cutes and daydreams about meeting “our person” and what that connection would be like.

    Aziraphale, played by Michael Sheen, and Crowley, played by David Tennant, in an episode of ‘Good Omens.’ Ineffable Husbands is the ship name of these two characters.
    (Amazon Prime)

    So, when we encounter a character who feels relatable, or who feels like “our person,” shipping allows us to explore those daydreams without any of the actual risks of complications involved in real life relationships. In many ways, the act of shipping is an exercise in emotional fulfillment for the fan.

    In 2019, the podcast Fansplaining found that fans had strong feelings about the emotional intensity they felt when shipping. Fan studies scholars have also turned to this question often; Brit Kelley’s recent monograph Loving Fanfiction comes to mind as a prime example of a deep dive into affect and emotion in fanfiction and, of course, shipping.

    What makes characters shippable?

    Some characters naturally have a spark that draw fans to them — whether it’s through witty banter, emotional vulnerability, opposites-attract tension or the fact that there’s only one bed. When characters have great chemistry, fans can’t help but see the potential for something deeper.

    This is especially true when a character’s arc involves personal or emotional growth, as we are eager to imagine a happy ending for characters who are evolving. Combine this growth with the tension of a “will they or won’t they” relationship — a classic of the 90s and 2000s sitcom, think Rachel and Ross from Friends, or Ted and Robin from How I Met Your Mother — and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a beloved ship.

    In fact, a common shipping trope is the slow burn where the romance builds excruciatingly slowly. These types of relationships keep fans hooked because the development is gradual, and subtle. On-screen couples like Jess and Nick from New Girl and Jake Peralta and Amy Santiago from Brooklyn Nine-Nine are prime examples of this.

    Jake Proposes to Amy on Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

    Fans experience the full gamut of the emotional journey with these characters and, should then tension break and romance bloom, the pay-off is incredibly satisfying.

    If the relationships don’t come to pass, fans often turn to fanfiction — stories written by and for fans — to explore the potential of that ship more fully, with platforms like Archive of Our Own providing a space for these creative explorations.

    Pushing for diversity in media

    Fans are often drawn to relationships and characters that challenge the dominant ideologies and norms seen in media. Some of the most popular ships involve queer pairings — a trend that dates back, at least, to early days of media fandom with Spirk (Spock/Kirk) fanfiction.

    Some of today’s most popular queer ships include Aziraphale/Crowley from Good Omens, Dean Winchester/Castiel from Supernatural, Villanelle/Eve from Killing Eve and Hannibal Lecter and Will Graham from Hannibal.

    Such relationships can provide a sense of representation that’s often lacking in mainstream media, allowing fans to see themselves in the stories they love. In this way, shipping can serve as a form of advocacy, pushing for greater diversity and inclusivity in media.

    Shipping is about more than wanting characters to kiss — it’s an emotionally charged experience that culminates from empathy, narrative tension, personal fantasies and desires. For fans, these fictional relationships can feel as real as any in our own lives, and that’s why we keep coming back for more.

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

    – ref. Are you a Destiel stan? There’s so much more to ‘shipping’ than wanting characters to kiss – https://theconversation.com/are-you-a-destiel-stan-theres-so-much-more-to-shipping-than-wanting-characters-to-kiss-238394

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the ‘New Right’ in Latin America differs from other emerging far-right movements

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Juan Manuel Morales, PhD Candidate, Political Science, Université de Montréal

    Following the end of the progressive wave of the 2000s and 2010s in Latin America, the right has reinvented itself and regained political space.

    There is the self-styled libertarianism of Javier Milei in Argentina, the protests against leftist president Gustavo Petro in Colombia and the increasingly authoritarian government of Nayib Bukele in El Salvador.

    There’s also a plethora of influencers and media personalities that vociferously defend conservative positions in the region.

    “New Right” candidates are running in municipal elections in Chile and general elections in Uruguay in October.

    What is the New Right?

    Research defines the New Right as “a diverse set of individuals and organizations aiming to maintain societal hierarchies that are perceived as traditional or natural.”

    Whereas the traditional right often showed no interest in democracy and was more concerned with economic issues and fighting communism, the new right uses the tools of democracy to obtain power and govern, and focuses more on cultural issues.

    Chief among these issues is the control of sexuality and gender, which differentiates the new Latin American right from its western counterparts, which are prioritizing the issue of migration.



    Read more:
    Why the ideology of the ‘New Right’ is so dangerous

    The issues

    Researchers have observed the focus on sexuality in the new Latin American right. While conducting field work last year in Colombia with right-wing activists, it became clear to me that groups as diverse as economic libertarians, evangelical anti-abortionists and security hardliners with military backgrounds shared a desire to control the sexuality of others.

    Earlier this year, El Salvador’s Bukele ordered gender-related content removed from the public education system. Argentina’s Milei routinely attacks women’s reproductive rights, and the Peruvian government defined transgender identities as a “mental health problem.”

    These varied efforts seek to maintain heterosexual and binary gender models at the top of the social hierarchy, while people with diverse identities are marginalized. These authoritarian tendencies are aligned with another of the new right’s favourite issues: a tough-on-crime approach to security.

    Bukele has become an inspiration on this matter.



    Read more:
    ‘Bukelism,’ El Salvador’s flawed approach to gang violence, is no silver bullet for Ecuador

    The Argentine and Ecuadorian governments have expressed an interest in building Bukele-style mega-prisons to curb crime.

    Likewise, politicians in different countries market themselves as the local Bukele to win votes.

    Sexuality, crime

    Except for a few countries, migration is not a particularly relevant issue for adherents of the New Right in Latin America.

    This is not due to a lack of migration. More than six million Venezuelans have migrated to other countries in the region as of 2023; several Latin American countries are transit points for migrants trying to reach the United States; internal migration and forced displacement are an ongoing issue for some countries.

    Nevertheless, anti-migrant and nativist views are not commonplace. There is, however, an effort by the New Right to preserve white and white/mixed-race populations as well as western Christian values at the top of the social hierarchy — to the detriment of Latin America’s Indigenous and Black communities.

    The strategies

    The traditional right in Latin America resorted to coups d’état and military dictatorships as part of its repertoire of action. This happened in particular before the 1990s, but it’s also occurred in the last three decades.

    Conversely, the New Right prefers to leverage the tools of democracy to erode the democratic system from within and prolong its grip on power.

    New Right figures now become leaders by winning elections. But once in office, they often try to concentrate power in the executive branch by undermining the separation of powers.

    Bukele, for example, controls the legislative and judicial branches in El Salvador. Jair Bolsonaro took a similar path in Brazil but was ultimately thwarted by the victory of leftist Lula da Silva in 2022.

    The New Right has also become adept at using judicial activism to advance its agenda and curtail the rights of marginalized citizens.

    Grassroots organizing and social activism — tactics traditionally associated with the left — are now part of the New Right’s playbook in Latin America. Social movements were instrumental in the fall of Brazil’s Dilma Roussef and the subsequent 2018 victory of Bolsonaro.

    Right-wing social movement entities have systematically taken to the streets in Colombia to protest the leftist government.

    Evangelical churches have also taken on a more visible role within the New Right, disputing the traditional leadership of the Catholic Church among conservatives. While evangelicals have long been an important electoral force in places like Brazil, they have had more mixed results in other countries.

    Future implications

    The New Right continues to influence the public debate and society at large in Latin America through street and social media activism, as well as institutional politics.

    In 2025, the New Right could make further electoral gains in countries like Chile and Ecuador.

    Because many existing New Right governments regularly undermine democracy and the rights of marginalized communities, it’s important to better understand their strategies and priorities — particularly in a region marred by exclusion and inequality.

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

    – ref. How the ‘New Right’ in Latin America differs from other emerging far-right movements – https://theconversation.com/how-the-new-right-in-latin-america-differs-from-other-emerging-far-right-movements-239267

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrating 40 years of Oxford’s Ice Rink

    Source: City of Oxford

    Thursday, 26 September 2024

    This October sees Oxford’s Ice Rink hit the big 4-0, as it celebrates four decades of skating fun by hosting a Back to the 80s Gala on Saturday 5th October.

    Ice skating fans will get two chances to see this retro fun-fest, with shows at 2.30pm and 6pm, featuring the cream of the city’s skating talent from the Oxford School of Skating and Oxford Ice Academy.  

    The Back to the 80s Gala will see skaters dressed in retro fashions, dancing to songs that were big hits in the year the rink opened, 1984. People attending the show are guaranteed to feel like they’ve stepped back into the 80s! 

    The gala coincides with a Big Open Weekend at the ice rink, with free public skating sessions and taster lessons on Saturday and Sunday, and even a Saturday night disco. 

    “We are really excited to celebrate this major milestone for the Ice Rink! In August, we completed an extensive renovation, including a brand-new ice pad with updated logos and hockey lines, and a roof replacement. So, we are looking forward to showing it off.

    To book a ticket to the skating show, please visit our website. We are excited to have you celebrate the Ice Rink’s birthday with us!” “

    Jane De Lange, Skate School Co-ordinator at Oxford Ice Rink

    “For 40 years, Oxford Ice Rink has been at the heart of our community, offering fun, fitness, and a space where people of all ages can come together. With its recent upgrades, the rink is now better than ever, ensuring it continues to provide a fantastic experience for everyone from first-time skaters to seasoned pros. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to the Back to the 80s Gala and the Big Open Weekend to celebrate this exciting milestone.” 

    Cllr Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy Oxford, Oxford City Council 

    In partnership with Serco Leisure, More Community Leisure Trust manage five Oxford facilities, including the ice rink, Ferry Leisure Centre and Hinksey Outdoor Pool on behalf of Oxford City Council.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next generation of teachers begin journey at ARU

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Published: 26 September 2024 at 15:00

    Cohort of new students start England’s first new BEd course for 30 years

    Almost 100 local students have embarked on England’s first new Batchelor of Education (BEd) course in 30 years as they begin their training to become the region’s next primary school teachers.

    Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is the newest provider of Initial Teacher Training in the country, and teaching got underway for the BEd Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status course in Chelmsford, Cambridge and Peterborough this week.

    Interested in becoming a teacher?

    Find out more about our BEd Primary Education degree at an Open Day. Book your place for 5 October or 23 November 2024.

    It is estimated that around 200 people leave the region every year to seek undergraduate teacher training opportunities at universities elsewhere in the country. It is hoped that the new, innovative course delivered by ARU will increase the number of teachers who train locally and stay in the region’s schools after graduation.

    The course combines three years of academic study with three high-quality assessed placements with primary schools across the East of England and London.

    Designed and taught by primary teachers who took the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) route in to teaching, the new course is regulated by Ofsted.

    Jenny Fogarty, Director of Initial Teacher Training at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:

    “We were thrilled to welcome our first cohort onto our campuses this week and we look forward to working with them over the next three years, nurturing them and developing them into primary school teachers fit for 21st Century classrooms.
     
    “As the only new accredited provider of Initial Teacher Training in England, this is a landmark moment for education in the East of England and we hope it will put an end to people feeling they need to move away in order to become a teacher.”

    Anyone interested in finding out more, and potentially applying to be part of the 2025 cohort in Cambridge, Chelmsford, or Peterborough, is encouraged to attend one of ARU’s next undergraduate open days on Saturday, 5 October or Saturday, 23 November 2024.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council’s dedicated teams on high alert again as weather warning issued

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning affecting Wolverhampton today (Thursday) running into tomorrow morning (Friday) with an amber warning in place for nearby areas.

    It follows heavy downpours last weekend which caused disruption across the city with council teams working through the night to address them; from clearing blocked drains to removing fallen trees and dealing with collapsed walls.

    Hard-working council staff are once again braced for another busy time and are at the ready to deal with calls on a priority basis.

    Councillor Qaiser Azeem, City of Wolverhampton Council cabinet member for transport and green city, said: “With further heavy rain expected we are planning ahead with crews carrying out precautionary cleansing of drains and gullies and on standby to respond to any incidents as and when they occur.

    “Teams are monitoring the situation and working collaboratively to coordinate a response.

    “There are more than 34,000 gullies across the city. While our dedicated staff will do everything they can to respond to the hundreds of calls we receive on a priority basis, we are asking the public – wherever possible – to help prevent further flooding by sweeping any leaves that they may find blocking drains and gullies near their properties. This will enable rainwater to drain away more quickly.”

    Advice and guidance can be found at Flood Warning. 

    Do not email in an emergency, for anything urgent ring one of the numbers below:

    • 01902 55 5511 between 9am and 5pm weekdays
    • 01902 44 2999 out of hours
    • Forecasts are being regularly updated so please visit Met Office for the most up-to-date information on weather warnings – the Wolverhampton forecast is available here. Please also visit GOV.UK to view the latest on any Environment Agency flood alerts or warnings (there is also an option on this page to sign up directly for the free flood warning notification service).

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence and Security Advocate reappointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Lord Lancaster’s appointment as the HMG Defence and Security Advocate extended by the Business and Trade Secretary.

    • Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds extends Lord Lancaster’s contract as Defence and Security Advocate for a further three months.
    • Lord Lancaster will continue to engage with industry leaders, ministers and other key players both in the UK and overseas to build export relationships with the UK’s partners.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has reappointed Lord Mark Lancaster as the Government’s Defence and Security Advocate, to drive the UK’s defence and security export success for a further three months until 20 December 2024.

    Lord Lancaster will report directly to the Business and Trade Secretary and will continue his programme of visits both overseas and at home to promote UK defence and security exports.

    Lord Lancaster was initially appointed in January 2023 and has brought a wealth of specialist defence experience to the role.  Major-General, Lord Lancaster, is Director of the Army Reserves and was a Defence Minister between 2015-2019.  He was also previously a Major in the Territorial Army, having served as part of NATO peacekeeping forces in Kosovo and Bosnia.

    Background

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Non-executive chair reappointment at Government Actuary’s Department

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government Actuary’s Department (GAD) announces the reappointment of Les Philpott as non-executive director and Management Board chair.

    Les is an experienced Non-Executive Director, having held a diverse range of non-executive roles in the public, private and charity sectors, including at Chair level. He has a background in public management at senior executive levels. Spanning a combined total of eleven years, Les formerly held the role of Chief Executive at the Office for Nuclear Regulation and previously held senior positions in the Health and Safety Executive.

    Commenting on the reappointment Fiona Dunsire, Government Actuary, said:

    With his business understanding, non-executive director experience at chair level, Les has been an insightful and inspirational presence in the Board of GAD. I look forward to working further with him during his second term.

    Les also commented and said:

    I am proud to have been reappointed to this role and to continue to be a part of GAD’s work and the next steps in its overall strategy.

    Notes:

    Les will continue to support GAD’s Management Board as the Non-Executive Chair, for a further three years, ending in September 2027.

    This reappointment has been made in accordance with the process and principles outlined in the Governance Code on Public Appointments. All appointments to the GAD are made on merit.

    He confirmed that he has not undertaken any political activity within the previous five years.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Winners of the Regional Student Competition 2024/2025 announced

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Falkland Islands Government and the British Embassies in Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay announce the winners of the Regional Student Competition.

    The Falkland Islands Government and the British Embassies in Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay are delighted to announce the winners of this year’s regional student competition. Participants from the four countries were asked to submit a short video in English, in which they answered the question: “Why would I like to meet my neighbours in the Falkland Islands?”.

    126 students entered the competition. All entries were reviewed and representatives from the Falkland Islands Government and British Embassies of the four countries selected the winners:

    • Celeste Giardinelli – Argentina
    • Shai Woldarsky – Chile
    • Valentina Brum – Uruguay
    • Elias Arce Soskin – Paraguay

    The winners will travel to the Falkland Islands in January, where they will spend a week experiencing the unique character of the Islands including its food and culture, nature and environment and meeting members of the community.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: DIAGNOS Announces Voting Results of Meeting of Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROSSARD, Quebec, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DIAGNOS Inc. (“DIAGNOS” or the “Corporation”) (TSX Venture: ADK) (OTCQB: DGNOF), a pioneer in early detection of critical health issues through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, announces the voting results of its annual general and special meeting of shareholders held on September 25, 2024.

    Election of directors
    The following directors were elected to hold office until the closing of the next annual meeting of the shareholders; Mr. André Larente, Mr. Francis Bellido, Mr. Robert Dunn, Mr. Michael Braeuel and Mr. Philippe Couillard.

    Appointment of auditor
    Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton LLP was re-appointed as auditor of the Corporation for the ensuing year.

    Amendment to the stock option plan
    The shareholders of the Corporation approved a special resolution pursuant to which the maximum number of common shares of the Corporation that may be issued under the stock option plan (the “Plan”) be set at 12,200,000, representing an increase of 2,000,000 common shares.

    Some of the provisions of the Plan were amended to comply with the current version of Policy 4.4 of the TSX Venture exchange. Please refer to the 2024 Management Information Circular of the Corporation available on Sedar+ for the updated version of the Plan.

    The amendments to the Plan remain subject to the TSX Venture acceptance.

    About DIAGNOS
    DIAGNOS is a publicly traded Canadian corporation dedicated to early detection of critical health problems based on its FLAIRE Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform. FLAIRE allows for quick modifying and developing of applications such as CARA (Computer Assisted Retina Analysis). CARA’s image enhancement algorithms provide sharper, clearer and easier-to-analyze retinal images. CARA is a cost-effective tool for real-time screening of large volumes of patients.

    Additional information is available at http://www.diagnos.ca and http://www.sedarplus.com.

    This news release contains forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these statements. DIAGNOS disclaims any intention or obligation to publically update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PROACTIS SA – Press release 26.09.2024 ( publication date AFR)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Publication date of the results and the Annual Financial Report fiscal period ended 31 January 2024

    SURESNES, France – (26 September 2024) — PROACTIS (ISIN code : FR0004052561) announces that, the publication of its results and Annual Financial Report for the year ended January 31, 2024, originally scheduled for May 31, 2024, will take place on September 26, 2024.

    PROACTIS SA’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders will be held on October 17, 2024, at 1:30 pm.

    PROACTIS SA had obtained authorization from the President of the Nanterre Commercial Court to postpone this meeting until October 31, 2024.

    * * * *

    About Proactis SA (https://www.proactis.com/proactis-sa), a Proactis Company

    Proactis SA connects companies by providing business spend management and collaborative business process automation solutions for both goods and services, through The Business Network. Our solutions integrate with any ERP or procurement system, providing our customers with an easy-to-use solution which drives adoption, compliance and savings.

    Proactis SA has operations in France, Germany, USA and Manila.

    Listed in Compartment C on the Euronext Paris Eurolist.

    ISIN: FR0004052561, Euronext: PROAC, Reuters: HBWO.LN, Bloomberg: HBW.FP

    Contacts
    Tel: +33 (0)1 53 25 55 00
    E-mail: investorContact@proactis.com

    * * * *

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ABC arbitrage Release of the interim financial report as of June 30, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ABC arbitrage announces that as of today its financial report for the first half of 2024 has been publicly released and filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF).

    This document includes the following parts:

    • The half-year activity report
    • The consolidated financial statements as of June 30, 2024
    • The statutory auditors’ report
    • Statement by the person responsible for the financial report

    The annual financial report can be consulted on the Group website at: abc-arbitrage.com, in the “Shareholders” page, heading Financial information / Financial reports.

    Contacts : abc-arbitrage.com
    Relations actionnaires : actionnaires@abc-arbitrage.com
    Relations presse: VERBATEE / v.sabineu@verbatee.com    		 EURONEXT Paris – Compartiment B
    ISIN : FR0004040608
    Reuters  BITI.PA / Bloomberg ABCA FP

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ThoughtSpot Appoints Ketan Karkhanis as new Chief Executive Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ThoughtSpot, the AI-Powered Analytics Company, today announced that the Company has appointed Ketan Karkhanis as Chief Executive Officer.

    Ketan is joining ThoughtSpot from Salesforce, where he has spent over a decade of his career. He most recently served as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Salesforce Sales Cloud business, leading one of the company’s largest cloud businesses that generated more than $7 billion last fiscal year. He returned to Salesforce in March 2022 after his time as the COO of Turvo, a supply-chain collaboration platform that was acquired by Lineage Logistics in 2022. Before that, Ketan was the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Salesforce Einstein Analytics, incubating the business from launch to over $300 million and a 30,000 strong user community.

    “During this time of accelerated transformation driven by the advent of generative AI, there is no better person to lead ThoughtSpot than Ketan,” said Ajeet Singh, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of ThoughtSpot. “He is a customer-obsessed, employee-focused business leader with a deep experience in analytics and has built and led world-class SaaS businesses of significant scale. The ThoughtSpot Board believes that Ketan is the right leader to help ThoughtSpot capitalize on its foundational innovation and capture the massive market opportunity that lies ahead in AI-powered analytics.”

    Singh added, “Over the last six months, ThoughtSpot has made significant progress in accelerating its product roadmap, delivering genAI-driven value to customers that are migrating away from legacy visualization platforms, and centering its focus on durable growth at scale, all setting the table for our next CEO.”

    “Ketan has the passion and experience to lead ThoughtSpot in its next chapter,” said Ravi Mhatre, Founder and Managing Director of Lightspeed Venture Partners and the founding investor on ThoughtSpot’s Board of Directors. “This appointment comes at a perfect time for the market as analytics is redefined by genAI, and ensures that ThoughtSpot is best positioned to scale rapidly.”

    “ThoughtSpot has built a fundamentally different approach to analytics since its inception, squarely focused on democratizing data and empowering everyone to make data-driven decisions with its AI and search-driven analytics platform,” said Ketan Karkhanis, CEO of ThoughtSpot. “ThoughtSpot has a significant head start in innovation that is required for truly delivering on the expectations that genAI has created, with a proven solution that is delivering value to some of the largest and most complex enterprises in the world. I am extremely honored to have the opportunity to lead the company that finds itself intersecting with the genAI tailwinds at a perfect time, and is in a strong position to capitalize on this market opportunity by bringing unparalleled value to over a thousand customers across the globe.”

    Ketan has a Bachelor’s in Computer Science from PICT (Pune Institute of Computer Technology, India) and an MBA from Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business.

    About ThoughtSpot
    ThoughtSpot is the AI-Powered Analytics company. Our mission is to create a more fact-driven world with the easiest to use analytics platform. With ThoughtSpot, anyone can leverage natural language search to ask and answer data questions with confidence. ThoughtSpot enables everyone within an organization to limitlessly engage with live data in any major cloud data platform, making it easy to create and interact with granular, hyper-personalized, and actionable insights. Customers can take advantage of both ThoughtSpot’s web and mobile applications to improve decision-making for every employee, wherever and whenever decisions are made. With ThoughtSpot’s low-code developer-friendly platform, ThoughtSpot Embedded, customers can also embed AI-Powered Analytics to their products and services, monetizing their data and engaging users to keep them coming back for more. Organizations like Capital One, Daimler, Comcast, Cigna, Royal Bank of Canada, Nasdaq, and Unilever rely on ThoughtSpot to transform how their employees and customers take advantage of data. Try ThoughtSpot today and see for yourself.

    PR Contact:

    Lindsay Noonan
    Director of Communications, ThoughtSpot
    press@thoughtspot.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/88088950-4082-42c9-b99f-a944c31c28c8

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Laurie Stewart Named One of American Banker’s “Most Powerful Women to Watch”

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Banker names Laurie Stewart, President and CEO of Sound Community Bank, as one of The Most Powerful Women to Watch in 2024.

    Now celebrating its 22nd anniversary, American Banker’s The Most Powerful Women in Banking™ program recognizes individuals and teams for demonstrating exceptional leadership skills, strong business performance, and a commitment to driving real outcomes for diversity, equity, and inclusion in financial services. As part of this program, the Most Powerful Women to Watch rankings highlight influential leaders from top banks and financial institutions.  

    “Keep your eyes on these women in the years ahead,” said Chana Schoenberger, Editor-in-Chief of American Banker. ”They exemplify modern leadership, with significant contributions to both their businesses and the industry at large. It hasn’t been an easy year for bank and financial institutions, but progress continues – not by chance, but through the determined efforts of these women.”

    The honorees will be recognized at THE MOST POWERFUL WOMEN IN BANKING Gala, scheduled for October 24, 2024, at The Glasshouse in New York City.

    Stewart recently celebrated 34 years with Sound Community Bank. In this span, Stewart led the organization’s conversion from a $38 million dollar credit union to a $1 billion publicly traded commercial bank. Active in the industry, Stewart was one of 14 bankers selected to serve on the inaugural FDIC Community Bank Advisory Board. She is active in trade associations, having served two terms as Chair of the WBA and as Chair of the ABA’s flagship Governmental Affairs Committee. Stewart ascended to Chairperson of the American Bankers Association Board of Directors, becoming only the third woman to hold this role in nearly 150 years. She served two consecutive terms on the Board of Directors for the Seattle Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and is currently serving on the 12th District Head Office Board. She also served as Chair of the National Arthritis Foundation Board of Directors and is a former Chair of the Woodland Park Zoo. Ms. Stewart is the current Secretary/Treasurer of the Jamestown/S’Klallam CDFI. She is the only non-tribal member of the CDFI Board.

    About Sound Community Bank
    Established in 1953, Sound Community Bank is a full-service bank providing personal and business banking services in communities across the greater Puget Sound region. The Seattle-based company operates banking offices in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties and on the web at http://www.soundcb.com. Sound Community Bank is a subsidiary of Sound Financial Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: SFBC). On June 30, 2024, Sound Financial Bancorp, Inc. reported total assets of $1.1 billion.  

    For Media inquiries, please contact:
    Deena Rataezyk
    Vice President, Director of Marketing & Communications
    deena.rataezyk@soundcb.com
    (206) 204-8169

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Check Point Software Recognized as a Visionary in Endpoint Security in 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a leading cyber security platform provider of AI-powered, cloud delivered solutions, today announced that it has been recognized as a Visionary in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms. Check Point Harmony Endpoint is shaping the future of workspace security with flexible deployment options and a unified security approach, offering robust endpoint protection tailored to organizations of any scale.

    Businesses today are grappling with more advanced cyber threats aimed particularly at endpoints, highlighted by Check Point Research’s report of a 30% increase in global cyber-attacks in the second quarter of 2024. Simultaneously, they must navigate the complexities of managing numerous security solutions. Check Point Harmony Endpoint mitigates these challenges by providing robust protection, with a 99.8% block rate against new malware, ransomware, and zero-day attacks. It ensures seamless security across diverse devices and networks, simplifying management and reducing operational costs.

    Gary Li, Vice President of Research Institute at Gotion High-Tech emphasized our features, stating that, “Check Point Harmony Endpoint satisfied all of our criteria and efficiently addressed our current cybersecurity risks. Its autonomous detection and response capability also enable our team to easily intercept attacks and prevent them from affecting users and endpoints.”

    “We’re thrilled that Gartner has acknowledged us for the second year in a row, as we consistently secure customer traction and provide our clients with comprehensive security solutions to safeguard them against the latest cyber-attacks,” said Ofir Israel, VP of Threat Prevention at Check Point Software Technologies. “We see endpoints being among the most vulnerable for compromise and persistently push the boundaries of innovation to ensure strong protection for businesses of all sizes.”

    Harmony Endpoint offers a robust and all-encompassing security solution for endpoints, featuring advanced EPP, EDR, and XDR functionalities, that safeguard remote workforces against the intricate threats of today’s digital environment. Harmony Endpoint is part of the Check Point Infinity Platform, a comprehensive platform that provides top-tier security across data centers, networks, cloud services, branch offices, and remote users, all managed through a unified interface.

    To download a complimentary copy of the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms visit our website and check out the blog.

    Discover how Harmony Endpoint can safeguard your workforce. Visit us for more information: https://www.checkpoint.com/solutions/endpoint-security/

    Follow Check Point via:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/check-point-software-technologies
    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/checkpointsw
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/checkpointsoftware
    Blog: https://blog.checkpoint.com
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CPGlobal

    Gartner Disclaimer
    Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

    GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner and Magic Quadrant is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. 
    Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (http://www.checkpoint.com) is a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider protecting over 100,000 organizations worldwide. Check Point leverages the power of AI everywhere to enhance cyber security efficiency and accuracy through its Infinity Platform, with industry-leading catch rates enabling proactive threat anticipation and smarter, faster response times. The comprehensive platform includes cloud-delivered technologies consisting of Check Point Harmony to secure the workspace, Check Point CloudGuard to secure the cloud, Check Point Quantum to secure the network, and Check Point Infinity Platform Services for collaborative security operations and services.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Cegedim: Revenue and EBITDA both increased in the first half of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

         
     

    PRESS RELEASE

    First-half financial information at June 30, 2024
    IFRS – Regulated information – Audited

    Cegedim: Revenue and EBITDA both increased in the first half of 2024

    • Revenue grew 6.0% as reported and 4.6% LFL to €319.0 million
    • EBITDA rose 6.9% to €52.2 million
    • Recurring operating income(1) (REBIT) fell 3.4% to €10.3 million

    Boulogne-Billancourt, France, September 26, 2024, after the market close

    Cegedim generated consolidated H1 2024 revenues of €319.0 million, a 6.0% year-on-year increase as reported, and EBITDA of €52.2 million, a €3.4 million or 6.9% increase. Recurring operating income fell €0.4 million, or 3.4%, to €10.3 million.

      H1 2024 H1 2023 Change
      in €m (in %) (in €m) (in %) (in €m) in %
    Revenues 319.0 100.0% 301.0 100.00% 18.0 6.0%
    EBITDA(1) 52.2 16.4% 48.8 +16.2% 3.4 6.9%
    Depreciation & amortization -41.9   -38.1   -3.8 -9.8%
    Recurring operating income(1) 10.3 3.2% 10.7 3.6% -0.4 -3.4%
    Other non-recurring operating income and expenses(1) -2.6   -1.4   -1.2 -88.8%
    Operating income 7.7 2.4% 9.3 3.1% -1.6 -17.1%
    Financial result -5.0   -5.6   0.6 10.8%
    Total tax -2.9   -12.4   9.5 76.8%
    Share of net profit (loss) of equity method companies 0.1   -0.5   0.6 110.3%
    Consolidated net profit -0.1 0.0% -9.2 -3.1% 9.1 99.0%
    Non-controlling interests -0.7   -0.4   -0.3 -69.3%
    Group share 0.6 0.2% -8.8 -2.9% 9.4 107.2%
    Recurring earnings per share(2) (in euros) 0.0 – -0.6 –    
    Earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 – -0.6 –    

    Consolidated revenues rose €18.0 million, or 6.0%, to €319.0 million in H1 2024 compared with €301.0 million in 2023. The positive scope effect of €3.7 million, or 1.2%, was attributable to the first-time consolidation in Cegedim’s accounts of Visiodent starting March 1, 2024. The positive currency impact was €0.5 million, or 0.2%, chiefly owing to appreciation of the pound sterling against the euro. In like-for-like terms(2), revenues rose 4.6% in the first half, in line with the Group’s announced outlook. The performance was attributable to seasonality and the non-recurrence of Ségur public health investments in 2024.

    EBITDA(1) rose €3.4 million between the first half of 2023 and 2024, or 6.9%. The improvement is the result of good management of personnel costs and external costs, in moderate growth as a percentage of revenues even though the amount of R&D capitalization fell and the Group had an additional quarter of start-up costs for its biggest BPO contract.

    ————-
    (1)    Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.
    (2)   At constant scope and exchange rates.

    Depreciation and amortization expenses rose €3.7 million, chiefly due to a €3.1 million increase in R&D amortization (€22.7 million at June 30, 2024 compared with €19.7 million a year earlier) driven by development efforts in recent years.

    Recurring operating income(1) fell €0.4 million to €10.3 million in H1 2024 compared with €10.7 million in 2023.  It amounted to 3.2% of 2024 revenue compared with 3.6% in 2023. The fine EBITDA performance did not drop through to recurring operating income solely because of higher depreciation and amortization. Excluding the impact of Ségur subsidies and at comparable levels of amortization of capitalized R&D, Recurring operating income would have more than doubled.

    Other non-current operating costs(1) amounted to €2.6 million in H1 2024 compared with €1.4 million in the same period in 2023.  The principal items in 2024 were restructuring costs related to the Group’s decision to refocus software for doctors in the UK on Scotland and fees related to the Visiodent acquisition.

    Taking these elements into account, operating income came to €7.7 million at June 30, 2024, compared with €9.3 million a year earlier.

    Financial result was a loss of €5.0 million compared with a €5.6 million loss in H1 2023. Dividend income over the period more than offset the increase in the cost of financial debt.

    Tax was back to normal levels at €2.6 million in H1 2024 compared with €12.4 million in H1 2023. As a reminder, in 2023 the Group made a non-cash adjustment that caused it to record a deferred tax charge corresponding to the downward revision of its estimated remaining deferred tax assets.

    Analysis of business trends by division

    in millions of euros Total Software & Services Flow Data & Marketing BPO Cloud & Support
    Revenue            
    2023 reported

    2023 reclassified (*)

    		 301.0

    301.0

    		 161.5

    150.6

    		 48.2

    46.8

    		 54.9

    54.9

    		 32.8

    32.8

    		 3.5

    15.8
    2024 319.0 152.1 49.5 59.3 39.9 18.1
    Change 6.0% 1.0% 5.8% 8.0% 21.6% 14.5%
                 
    Recurring operating income            
    2023 reported

    2023 reclassified (*)

    		 10.7

    10.7

    		 -2.0

    -2.5

    		 5.6

    5.2

    		 6.6

    6.6

    		 1.4

    1.4

    		 -0.9

    0.0
    2024 10.3 -1.4 5.9 5.3 1.9 -1.3
    Change -3.4% 42.4% 12.8% -19.8% 36.0% na
                 
    Recurring operating margin (as a % of revenues)

    2023 reported

    		  

    3.6%

    		  

    -1.2%

    		  

    11.7%

    		  

    11.9%

    		  

    4.3%

    		  

    -24.7%
    2023 reclassified (*) 3.6% -1.7% 11.1% 11.9% 4.3% 0.3%
    2024 3.2% -1.0% +11.8% 8.9% 4.8% -7.0%
                 

    (*) As of January 1, 2024, our Cegedim Outsourcing and Audiprint subsidiaries—which were previously housed in the Software & Services division—as well as BSV—formerly of the Flow division—have been moved to the Cloud & Support division in order to capitalize on operating synergies between cloud activities and IT solutions integration.

    • Software & Services: H1 2024 revenues posted a €1.5 million increase, and recurring operating income (REBIT)(1) improved by €1.1 million to a loss of €1.4 million, compared with a €2.5 million loss a year earlier.

    ————-
    (1)    Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.

    Software & Services First half Change

    2024 / 2023
    in millions of euros 2024 2023
    Revenues 152.1 150.6 1.5 1.0%
    Cegedim Santé 38.9 39.8 -1.0 -2.4%
    Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services 86.7 84.5 2.3 2.7%
    International businesses 26.5 26.3 0.2 0.6%
    Recurring operating income(1) -1.4 -2.5 1.1 42.4%
    Cegedim Santé -1.6 -1.4 -0.2 -11.8%
    Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services 3.4 3.3 0.1 3.5%
    International businesses -3.3 -4.4 1.1 25.6%

    As expected, Cegedim Santé felt the impact of increased R&D amortization (nearly €1 million) and a demanding comparison owing to the non-recurrence of Ségur public health investments (€4.4 million in H1 2023 revenues). The consolidation of Visiodent starting March 1, 2024, only partly offset those two items. Recurring operating income was nearly stable over the first half, but EBITDA increased as expected.

    The other businesses in the division posted REBIT(1) of €1.2 million. A solid performance by HR solutions, which managed to keep costs under control during a phase of strong growth, compensated for slower pharmacy equipment sales post-Ségur. The international businesses got a boost from dynamic sales for doctors in Spain and for insurers in the UK. As we shift our operations, narrowing the focus of our UK doctor’s software business to Scotland continued to generate costs in the first half.

    • Flow: Revenues rose 5.8%, driven by Cegedim e-business (process digitalization and electronic data flows), both of whose businesses made positive contributions; by Invoicing & Procurement, which rebounded in France and is benefiting from the upcoming reform in Germany; and by Healthcare Flow Management, which has dynamic new offerings for hospitals to make their drug purchasing secure. Over the same period, Third-party payer systems posted 3.6% growth. As a result, REBIT(1) rose 12.8%, with Third-party payer systems making the biggest contribution, as Cegedim e-business recorded a large R&D amortization charge.
    • Data & Marketing: Trends differed at this division—Marketing is still going strong, with 20% growth, whereas Data revenues fell 2.8%, particularly abroad. REBIT(1) of €6.6 million was down €1.3 million over the first half owing to high fixed costs in Data and increased depreciation and amortization costs at C-Media (+€1 million) due to heavy investments in updating its digital signage equipment.
    • BPO: Revenue jumped more than 21% over the first half, buoyed notably by a full six months of the contract with Allianz, which started on April 1, 2023, and is expected to generate losses in the early years. But the division reined in those losses so well that REBIT(1) rose €0.5 million in the first half of 2024 to reach €1.9 million, also getting a boost from the HR BPO and digitalization businesses.
    • Cloud & Support: H1 2024 REBIT(1) was a loss of €1.3 million, compared with breakeven a year earlier. The drop was due to surcharges related to the launch of a new cloud offering and recruitment of new offshore teams.

    ———

    (1) Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.

    Highlights

    Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no events or changes during H1 2024 that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.

    • Acquisition of Visiodent

    On February 15, 2024, Cegedim Santé acquired Visiodent, a leading French publisher of management software for dental practices and health clinics. Visiodent launched the market’s first 100% SaaS solution, Veasy, at a time when it was significantly expanding its organization. Its users now include the country’s largest nation-wide networks of health clinics, both cooperative and privately owned, as well as several thousand dental surgeons in private practice. Visiodent generated revenue of c.€10 million in 2023 and began contributing to Cegedim Group’s consolidation scope on March 1, 2024.

    Cegedim S.A. has been subject to two tax audits since 2018, which have resulted in reassessments relating to the use of tax-loss carryforwards contested by the tax authorities. Cegedim, in consultation with its lawyers, believes that the reassessments are unfounded in light of the applicable tax law and jurisprudence. The Company has therefore taken, and continues to take, all possible avenues of contestation.

    As these appeals are not suspensive, Cegedim has paid the amounts reassessed over time (a total of 23 million euros already paid, including 10.9 million euros disbursed in February 2024). The remaining risk of future disbursements in respect of this dispute thus amounts to only 5 million euros at June 30, 2024.

    However, these disbursements have never given rise to the recognition of a tax charge in the P&L, since the Company considers that these sums will be recoverable at the end of the proceedings (they are recognized as advances paid on the assets side of the balance sheet). Should the outcome be unfavorable, a charge of 28 million euros (of which 23 million has already been paid) would have to be recorded in the consolidated income statement.

    In addition, the consolidated balance sheet must show the future tax savings still realizable in respect of tax loss carryforwards. This “deferred tax asset” amounted to 6.9 million euros at June 30, 2024.
    Should the outcome be unfavorable, the probability of realizing these future savings would become nil, and an adjustment of 6.9 million euros would have to be recorded in the consolidated income statement (with no cash impact, since these gains have never yet been realized).

    Consequently, the risk associated with this dispute is not (or very little) in terms of cash, but rather in terms of a possible adjustment to the consolidated income. The maximum P&L adjustment risk is known: it amounts to 34.9 million euros and will remain unchanged. Only its breakdown varies at each closing: the amount of disputed tax savings (28 million to date) will continue to increase, and that of remaining future savings (6.9 million to date) will decrease accordingly until exhausted.

    In the last quarter of 2023, the Company referred this dispute to the administrative court, which is likely to continue for several years.

    Significant transactions and events post June 30, 2024

    Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no post-closing events or changes after June 30, 2024, that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.

    • New financing arrangement

    On July 31, 2024, Cegedim announced that it had secured a new financing arrangement consisting of a €230 million syndicated loan. The arrangement is split into €180 million of lines drawn upon closing to refinance the Group’s existing debt (RCF and Euro PP, which were to mature in October 2024 and October 2025 respectively) and an additional, undrawn revolving credit facility (RCF) of €50 million. This new financing arrangement will bolster the Group’s liquidity and extend the maturity of its debt to, respectively, 5 years (€30 million, payments every six months); 6 years (€60 million, repayable upon maturity); and 7 years (€90 million, repayable upon maturity).

    Outlook

    Based on the currently available information, the Group expects 2024 like-for-like(2) revenue growth to be in the range of 5-8% relative to 2023. Recurring operating income should continue to improve, following a similar trajectory as in 2023.  

    Recurring operating income(1) is expected to grow, notably thanks to the initial returns on investments made in Cegedim Santé and refocusing international activities.

    These targets may need to be revised in the event of unexpected developments (pandemic, etc.) and/or a significant worsening of geopolitical and macroeconomic risks. The Group reiterates that it has no activities or exposed assets in Russia or Ukraine.

    —————

    The Audit Committee met on September 25, 2024. The Board of Directors, chaired by Jean-Claude Labrune, met on September 26, 2024, and approved the consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2024, of which the statutory auditors have conducted a limited review. The Interim Financial Report will be available in a few days’ time, in French and in English, on our website.

    2024 financial calendar

    2024 October 24 after the close Q3 2024 revenues

    Financial calendar: https://www.cegedim.fr/finance/agenda/Pages/default.aspx

    Disclaimer
    This press release is available in French and in English. In the event of any difference between the two versions, the original French version takes precedence. This press release may contain inside information. It was sent to Cegedim’s authorized distributor on September 26, 2024, no earlier than 5:45 pm Paris time.
    The figures cited in this press release include guidance on Cegedim’s future financial performance targets. This forward-looking information is based on the opinions and assumptions of the Group’s senior management at the time this press release is issued and naturally entails risks and uncertainty. For more information on the risks facing Cegedim, please refer to Chapter 7, “Risk management”, section 7.2, “Risk factors and insurance”, and Chapter 3, “Overview of the financial year”, section 3.6, “Outlook”, of the 2023 Universal Registration Document filled with the AMF on April 3, 2024, under number D.24-0233.

    About Cegedim:
    Founded in 1969, Cegedim is an innovative technology and services group in the field of digital data flow management for healthcare ecosystems and B2B, and a business software publisher for healthcare and insurance professionals. Cegedim employs more than 6,500 people in more than 10 countries and generated revenue of €616 million in 2023.

    Cegedim SA is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: CGM).
    To learn more please visit: http://www.cegedim.fr
    And follow Cegedim on X: @CegedimGroup, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

    Aude Balleydier
    Cegedim
    Media Relations
    and Communications Manager

    Tel.: +33 (0)1 49 09 68 81
    aude.balleydier@cegedim.fr

    		 Damien Buffet
    Cegedim
    Head of Financial Communication

    Tel.: +33 (0)7 64 63 55 73
    damien.buffet@cegedim.com

    		 Céline Pardo
    Becoming RP Agency
    Media Relations Consultant

    Tel.:        +33 (0)6 52 08 13 66
    cegedim@becoming-group.com

    		  

    ———

    (1) Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.
    (2) At constant scope and exchange rates.

    Annexes

    Consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2024

    • Assets au 30 juin 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Goodwill 234,955 199,787
    Development costs 29,706 1,562
    Other intangible fixed assets 177,834 192,616
    Intangible non-current assets 207,541 194,178
    Land 594 544
    Buildings 1,556 1,660
    Other property, plant, and equipment 53,006 45,829
    Advances and non-current assets in progress 901 831
    Rights of use 86,092 89,718
    Tangible fixed assets 142,149 138,582
    Equity investments 0 0
    Loans 16,332 15,332
    Other long-term investments 7,120 5,230
    Long-term investments – excluding equity shares in equity method companies 23,452 20,563
    Equity shares in equity method companies 19,086 22,065
    Deferred tax assets 18,209 19,747
    Prepaid expenses: long-term portion 0 0
    Non-current assets 645,390 594,922
    Goods 6,072 5,498
    Advances and deposits received on orders 1,396 3,703
    Accounts receivables: short-term portion 182,907 175,199
    Other receivables: short-term portion 59,070 59,563
    Current tax credits 27,262 16,495
    Cash equivalents 0 0
    Cash 35,414 46,606
    Prepaid expenses: short-term portion 26,138 22,082
    Current assets 338,260 329,146
    Total assets 983,651 924,068
    • Liabilities et shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Share capital 13,432 13,337
    Consolidated retained earnings 276,449 282,521
    Group exchange gains/losses -11,848 -12,275
    Group earnings 630 -7,407
    Shareholders’ equity, Group share 278,663 276,175
    Minority interest 17,550 18,381
    Shareholders’ equity 296,213 294,556
    Non-current financial liabilities 187,714 188,546
    Non-current lease liabilities 76,267 78,761
    Deferred tax liabilities 5,949 5,600
    Post-employment benefit obligations 30,632 31,007
    Non-current provisions 2,147 2,521
    Non-current liabilities 302,710 306,435
    Current financial liabilities 61,570 3,006
    Current lease liabilities 14,661 14,789
    Trade payables and related accounts 57,225 61,734
    Current tax liabilities 192 235
    Tax and social security liabilities 113,884 121,371
    Non-current provisions 1,660 1,730
    Other current liabilities 135,538 120,212
    Current liabilities 384,728 323,077
    Total liabilities 983,651 924,068
    • Income statement at June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 6/30/2023
    Revenues 318,995 301,011
    Purchases used -14,045 -14,739
    External expenses -72,687 -66,371
    Taxes -3,961 -4,291
    Payroll costs -173,240 -163,623
    Impairment of trade receivables and other receivables and on contract assets -872 -2,041
    Allowances to and reversals of provisions -2,440 -1,830
    Other operating expenses -690 108
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates on the income statement 1,146 603
    EBITDA (1) 52,207 48,827
    Depreciation expenses other than right-of-use assets -33,140 -29,030
    Depreciation expenses of right-of-use assets -8,733 -9,097
    Recurring operating income(1) 10,334 10,700
    Non-recurring operating income and expenses -2,616 -1,385
    Other non-recurring operating income and expenses(1) -2,616 -1,385
    Operating income 7,718 9,315
    Income from cash and cash equivalents 326 180
    Cost of gross financial debt -7,121 -5,633
    Other financial income and expenses 1,813 -136
    Net financial income (expense) -4,983 -5,589
    Income taxes -1,226 -1,841
    Deferred income taxes -1,652 -10,588
    Tax -2,878 -12,429
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates 53 -515
    Consolidated net profit -90 -9,219
    Group share 630 -8,793
    Income from equity-accounted affiliates -721 -426
    Average number of shares excluding treasury stock 13,695,317 13,658,348
    Recurring earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6
    Earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6
    • Cash flow statement as of June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 6/30/2023
    Consolidated net profit -90 -9,219
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates -1,199 -88
    Depreciation and amortization expenses and provisions 40,531 37,972
    Capital gains or losses on disposals of operating assets -52 -798
    Cash flow after cost of net financial debt and taxes 39,190 27,867
    Cost of net financial debt 4,983 5,589
    Tax expenses 2,878 12,429
    Cash flow from operating activities before tax and interest 47,051 45,885
    Tax paid -11,634 -378
    Impact of change in working capital requirements -13,206 -18,032
    Cash flow generated from operating activities after tax paid and change in

    working capital requirements

    		 22,211 27,476
    Acquisitions of intangible fixed assets -29,879 -29,550
    Acquisitions of tangible fixed assets -15,935 -11,759
    Acquisitions of long-term investments 0 -36
    Disposals of property, plant, and equipment and of intangible assets 553 2,575
    Disposals of long-term investments 934 805
    Change in deposits received or paid -860 -156
    Impact of changes in consolidation scope -35,454 -2,172
    Dividends received from outside the Group 4,073 30
    Net cash from (used in) investing activities -76,568 -40,264
    Capital increase 985 –
    Dividends paid to minority shareholders of consolidated cos. 0 –
    Dividends paid to shareholders of the parent company -1 –
    Debt issuance 55,000 –
    Debt repayments -219 -193
    Employee profit sharing 145 129
    Repayment of lease liabilities -8,152 -11,353
    Interest paid on loans -972 -117
    Other financial income received 718 596
    Other financial expenses paid -3,612 -3,492
    Net cash flow used in financing activities 43,892 -14,430
    Change in net cash excluding currency impact -10,465 -27,218
    Impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates -728 -456
    Change in net cash -11,194 -27,674
    Opening cash 46,606 55,553
    Closing cash 35,412 27,879
    • Financial covenants

    The Group complied with all its covenants as of June 30, 2024.

    (1) Alternative performance indicator

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Flow Traders Q3 2024 Pre-close Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Flow Traders Q3 2024 Pre-close Call

    Amsterdam, the Netherlands – Flow Traders Ltd. (Euronext: FLOW) publishes the Q3 2024 pre-close call script to be used with analysts post the market close on 26 September 2024.

    Flow Traders will conduct a pre-close call with the analyst community post the European market close today, prior to the start of the silent period on 1 October 2024. The script to be used can be found on our website.

    https://www.flowtraders.com/investors/results-centre

    Contact Details

    Flow Traders Ltd.

    Investors
    Eric Pan
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        investor.relations@flowtraders.com

    Media
    Laura Peijs
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        press@flowtraders.com

    About Flow Traders

    Flow Traders is a leading global financial technology-enabled liquidity provider in financial products, historically specialized in Exchange Traded Products (ETPs), now expanding into other asset classes. Flow Traders ensures the provision of liquidity to support the uninterrupted functioning of financial markets. This allows investors to continue to buy or sell ETPs or other financial instruments under all market circumstances. We continuously grow our organization, ensuring that our trading desks in Europe, the Americas and Asia can provide liquidity across all major exchanges, globally, 24 hours a day. Founded in 2004, we continue to cultivate the entrepreneurial, innovative and team-oriented culture that has been with us since the beginning. Please visit http://www.flowtraders.com for more information.

    Important Legal Information

    This publication is prepared by Flow Traders Ltd. and is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and you must not rely on the content of this document when making any investment decisions. The information in this publication does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice and is not to be regarded as investor marketing or marketing of any security or financial instrument, or as an offer to buy or sell, or as a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell, securities or financial instruments.

    The information and materials contained in this publication are provided ‘as is’ and Flow Traders Ltd. or any of its affiliates (“Flow Traders”) do not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information and materials and expressly disclaim liability for any errors or omissions. This publication is not intended to be, and shall not constitute in any way a binding or legal agreement, or impose any legal obligation on Flow Traders. All intellectual property rights, including trademarks, are those of their respective owners. All rights reserved. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Flow Traders. No part of it may be redistributed or reproduced without the prior written permission of Flow Traders.

    Flow Traders expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, review or revise any statements contained in this publication to reflect any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which such statements are based. Unless the source is otherwise stated, the market, economic and industry data in this publication constitute the estimates of our management, using underlying data from independent third parties. We have obtained market data and certain industry forecasts used in this publication from internal surveys, reports and studies, where appropriate, as well as market research, publicly available information and industry publications. The third party sources we have used generally state that the information they contain has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but that the accuracy and completeness of such information is not guaranteed and that the projections they contain are based on a number of assumptions.

    By accepting this publication you agree to the terms set out above. If you do not agree with the terms set out above please notify legal.amsterdam@nl.flowtraders.com immediately and delete or destroy this publication.

    Market Abuse Regulation

    This press release contains information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Minister Boissonnault to announce federal investments in unique tourism experiences in Alberta

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    September 26, 2024 – Edmonton, Alberta

    The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of PrairiesCan, will announce federal support for businesses, communities and organizations to develop their local tourism products and share them with visitors from across Canada and around the world.

    Minister Boissonault will be joined by Shae Bird, Executive Director, Indigenous Tourism Alberta; Traci Bednard, Executive Director, Explore Edmonton; Juanita Marois, Executive Director, Métis Crossing; and Allen Jacobson, Cultural Director, La Cité Francophone.

    Following the address, speakers will be available to answer questions from the media.

    Date: Friday, September 27, 2024

    Time: 9:30 a.m. (MT)

    Location: Room 107Edmonton Expo Centre7515 118 Ave NWEdmonton, Alberta

    Please use entrance 5.

    Free parking is available: please register your license plate by scanning a QR code at the entrance to the Edmonton EXPO Centre.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Supporting Tourism in Prince Edward Island

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Media Advisory

    North Rustico, Prince Edward Island September 26, 2024 Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, will join the Honourable Cory Deagle, PEI Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture, to make an announcement regarding support for tourism in Prince Edward Island.

    Date: September 27, 2024

    Time: 10:00 a.m.

    Location: Eliayhu Wellness Center 20 Recreation Street North Rustico, PEI.

    Contact persons

    Connor BurtonPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyConnor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

    David FlemingCommunications ManagerAtlantic Canada Opportunities Agencydavid.fleming@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

    April GallantSenior Communications OfficerDepartment of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culturealdgallant@gov.pe.ca

    Stay Connected

    Follow APECA on Facebook, X, LinkedIn And Instagram.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Biographical notice

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 2

    Mylène Paradis (BA [communications], Université Laval, 1991; MA [journalism], Université Laval, 1993) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002.

    Mylène Paradis (BA [communications], Université Laval, 1991; MA [journalism], Université Laval, 1993) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002. At headquarters, she held positions with the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force and the Central America and Caribbean Bureau. She was Chief of Staff to the Deputy Minister of International Development and Director of the Global Health and Nutrition Branch. Abroad, she was posted to Madrid from 2005 to 2008. Throughout her career, she has held secondments to various departments, including the Privy Council Office, Citizenship and Immigration Canada and Health Canada. Most recently, she was Director General of Canadian Partnerships for Health and Social Development at Global Affairs Canada.

    Marianick Tremblay (BBA [civil and international law], Université de Sherbrooke, 1989; LL.B. Université de Sherbrooke, 1990) was called to the Quebec Bar in 1990 and joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. At headquarters, she served as senior counsel in the Environmental Law Division, coordinator of the Human Security Program, and senior counsel for small arms. Ms. Tremblay also served as deputy director of the Brazil and Southern Cone Section, and then as director of Hemispheric Affairs, which included relations with the Organization of American States and coordination of the Canadian delegation’s participation in the Summit of the Americas. From 2018 to 2021, she served as director general of the Mobilization of Canadians in the Partnerships for Development Innovation Sector. She has served in various overseas postings, including Mexico (1995–1998), Morocco (2001–2005), Chile (2007–2010), and as Ambassador to El Salvador (2010–2012), Ecuador (2015–2018), and Colombia (2021–2024).

    Craig Weichel (BA Honours [History], Wilfrid Laurier University, 1994; MA [History], McMaster University, 1996) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1998. At headquarters, he worked in the U.S. General Relations, Northern Europe, Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (Nuclear), and United Nations divisions. He also headed the Natural Disaster Response and Civilian Security Policy Division and the North Korea Task Force. From 2007 to 2009, he was President of the Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers. Abroad, he served in New York with the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations; in Vienna with the Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe; in Rome and, more recently, in Washington, where he directed the embassy’s environment and energy program.

    Brenda Wills (Hons BComm, University of Manitoba, 2003; MSc [Sustainable Development], University of Sussex, 2021) is a Métis from Red River, Manitoba who joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2004. Her first posting abroad was in Washington, D.C. as Second Secretary (Trade Policy). She subsequently served as First Secretary (Trade) in Chile, Senior Trade Commissioner and Counsellor (Trade) in Colombia, and Counsellor (Trade Policy) in Mexico City. At Headquarters, she worked in the Trade Policy and Negotiations Branch, first on negotiations with the European Union and the European Free Trade Association, and then on the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations as Deputy Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement. She also served as Chief of Staff to the Assistant Deputy Minister of International Business Development and Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner. Most recently, she served as Senior Trade Commissioner and Counsellor (Commercial Affairs) in Singapore.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: CRTC Broadband Fund: Project selected in July 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 2

    The CRTC has selected a new project that will receive funding under its Broadband Fund.

    The CRTC has selected a new project that will receive funding under its Broadband Fund.

    The CRTC has committed $79.4 million to the Kativik Regional Government to build a 933-kilometre fibre optic link that will connect the communities of Kangiqsualujjuaq, Aupaluk, Tasiujaq, Quaqtaq and Kangirsuk to high-speed Internet services. This project will provide high-speed Internet to more than 40 key institutions, including schools and health care centres. This initiative will have significant social, educational and economic benefits for these communities. It will also support future projects to connect businesses and more than 700 households.

    This project will build on previous Nunavik Region Broadband Fund projects and will provide all Kativik communities with access to high-speed Internet services.

    The CRTC continues to assess applications and will announce additional funding in the coming months.

    The selected project is as follows:

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Temporary suspension of F/A-18 training and instruction flights

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Defense Group

    Bern, 26.09.2024 – Instructional and training flights with the Air Force’s F/A-18 fleet were suspended as a precaution on Thursday, 26 September 2024. This decision is due to the oxygen supply of the combat aircraft. However, air policing and operational readiness remain assured.

    Pilots have noticed anomalies in the oxygen supply of the F/A-18 fighter jet in recent days. Since safety is the top priority, this irregularity is being thoroughly investigated with the help of specialists.

    A decision will then be made on the resumption of training and instruction flights. Air policing and operational availability are guaranteed.

    Address for sending questions

    Mathias VolkenArmy Spokesperson 41 58 488 90 96

    Author

    Defense Grouphttp://www.vtg.admin.ch

    Social sharing

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Health insurance premiums to increase by 6.4% on average in 2025

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Breadcrumbs

    vd.ch
    News
    Health insurance premiums to increase by 6.4% on average in 2025

    Published on 26.09.2024

    In the canton of Vaud, the average increase is equivalent to 6.4% (compared to 9.9% in 2024), which corresponds to 25.60 francs per month.

    Share the page

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    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Decisions of the Council of State of September 25, 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Breadcrumbs

    vd.ch
    News
    Decisions of the Council of State of September 25, 2024

    Published on 26.09.2024

    The decisions of the Council of State of September 25, 2024 are online.

    Share the page

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    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Receives National Recognition in Digital Government Excellence

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Center for Digital Government has given Connecticut national recognition for its ongoing digital government efforts, awarding the state with its second-consecutive grade of “A-” and ranking it first in the nation in digital services related to transportation and motor vehicles. The recognition was included as part of the organization’s 2024 Digital States Survey, which was released this morning.

    Governor Lamont has made it a priority during his administration to build an all-digital state government that provides Connecticut’s residents and businesses with the tools necessary to digitally connect with services administered by the state. In recent years, that work has included the launch of the business.ct.gov, health.ct.gov, and jobs.ct.gov portals, to give residents and businesses easy access to state services from across agencies in one location.

    “Innovation is Connecticut’s biggest asset,” Governor Lamont said. “This well-deserved recognition is a testament to the cross-agency work across state government to make our digital government services more accessible, easier to navigate, and more user friendly. The first-in-the-nation ranking for the use of technology in transportation and motor vehicles is thanks in large part to innovative programs – the wrong-way driver system on the state’s highways and the online appointment system that has dramatically reshaped the public’s ability to interact with the Department of Motor Vehicles.”

    Connecticut’s digital services program is primarily based out of the Bureau of Information Technology Solutions (BITS) within the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). Improving the digital experience for our residents deeply involves all agencies

    “Connecticut is fortunate to have a top-notch team dedicated to streamlining digital government services,” DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman said. “But the state’s digital journey is a total team effort, and we are proud to collaborate with partners from across state government. Congratulations to all involved in this meaningful work.”

    The grade of “A-” reflects a state whose technology leaders are using “very strong innovation, high performing solutions, and have applied excellent practices in all aspects of operations, governance, and administration,” according to Teri Takai, senior vice president of the Center for Digital Government.

    “I could not be more proud of the progress Connecticut continues to make in technology,” Connecticut Chief Information Officer and DAS Deputy Commissioner Mark Raymond said. “Our people, our partners, our agencies and our approach bring the best that technology has to offer to the residents and businesses of our state.”

    A listing of all 50 states and their grades is published on the Center for Digital Government’s website at http://www.centerdigitalgov.com.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Justice upheld in District Court’s sentencing in a case of “conspiracy to publish seditious publication”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Justice upheld in District Court’s sentencing in a case of “conspiracy to publish seditious publication”
    Justice upheld in District Court’s sentencing in a case of “conspiracy to publish seditious publication”
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​Following the conviction of three defendants on August 29 in a case of “conspiracy to publish and/or reproduce seditious publication”, the District Court handed down its sentence today (September 26).           The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government spokesman said: “The court has held earlier that Chung Pui-kuen and Lam Shiu-tung, while holding chief editorial positions at Stand News, had knowledge and approved of the seditious intent of the articles, providing Stand News as a publishing platform for inciting hatred against the Central Authorities and the HKSAR Government, as well as hatred against the administration of justice.”           The spokesman said, “The reasons for verdict by the Court have pointed out clearly that the ideology of Stand News was localism which excluded China, and that it even became a tool to smear and vilify the Central Authorities and the HKSAR Government during the movement of opposition to the proposed legislative amendments. The court found that the relevant articles, without any objective basis, attacked the relevant law and procedures; and relevant law enforcement and prosecutorial process; spread hatred and anti-government sentiment with disinformation; attacked law enforcement by the Police and glorified the behaviour of rioters – in other words, they were not based on facts. To distort acts of inciting hatred as “journalism” is a complete reversal of right and wrong.”           “According to Schedule 3 of the Implementation Rules of Article 43 of the Hong Kong National Security Law, the Department of Justice (DoJ) has made an application to court for a confiscation order to confiscate the proceeds of the relevant crime. DoJ will continue to handle subsequent procedures in accordance with the law.”            “The court stated in its reasons for sentence that at the time of the offence, the three defendants were not engaging themselves in genuine journalistic work but were participating in the so-called protest at the time. From the editorial of Stand News and News Stand, it is evident that they sided with the protesters against the Government. The crimes committed by the three defendants are very serious.”            “The reasons for sentence also pointed out that, given Stand News had approximately 1,600,000 followers, the seditious articles involved have undoubtedly caused significant harm to both the Central Government and HKSAR Government as well as the residents, although it is difficult to quantify.”     The spokesperson stated: “The reasons for sentence also indicated that, due to the severity of the offences, imprisonment is the only appropriate sentencing option. Regarding the length of the sentence, the maximum penalty is two years’ imprisonment. This maximum penalty is completely disproportionate to the severity of the offences. According to the existing Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, the maximum penalty for the crime of sedition is seven years’ imprisonment. Based on the culpability of the second defendant, Chung Pui-kuen, a starting point of 23 months’ imprisonment was adopted, and a sentence of 21 months was passed. For the third defendant, Lam Siu-tung, a starting point of 14 months’ imprisonment was adopted but due to the potential risk to his life if sent to prison, a sentence was imposed that allows for his immediate release.”     The spokesman says, “Following the verdict in this case, some have expressed concerns about freedom of the press and speech in Hong Kong. Some foreign media or other people with ulterior motives, as well as anti-China organisations and anti-China politicians, made untruthful and purely political remarks smearing the HKSAR. We have made clarifications and rebuttals many times to set the record straight. As demonstrated in the court’s reasons for its verdict, Stand News completely disregarded objective facts and contravened the “special duties and responsibilities” which journalists must observe under international human rights conventions.”     The spokesman pointed out that, “The Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights guarantee fundamental rights such as the freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, procession and demonstration. Members of the public (including journalists) in Hong Kong are, as always, free to make comments or criticisms that are based on facts, and to enjoy and exercise freedoms of the press and of speech in accordance with the law, without fear of unwittingly violating the law.”     “It is the constitutional duty of the HKSAR to safeguard national security. In this regard, the HKSAR Government will ensure that laws are observed and continue to enforce the law resolutely, decisively and rigorously with a view to effectively preventing, suppressing and imposing punishment for acts and activities endangering national security with all-out efforts.”

     
    Ends/Thursday, September 26, 2024Issued at HKT 23:57

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Keynote address by SJ at seminar titled Hong Kong: The Common Law Gateway for Malaysian Businesses to China and Beyond in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Keynote address by SJ at seminar titled Hong Kong: The Common Law Gateway for Malaysian Businesses to China and Beyond in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (English only) (with photos)
    Keynote address by SJ at seminar titled Hong Kong: The Common Law Gateway for Malaysian Businesses to China and Beyond in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (English only) (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Following is the keynote address by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, at the seminar titled Hong Kong: The Common Law Gateway for Malaysian Businesses to China and Beyond in in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, today (September 26): Her Excellency Dato’ Sri Azalina (Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said), 鄭學方代辦 (Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia, Mr Zheng Xuefang), Dato’ Seri Gobalakrishnan (President, National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia), ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests,      I am very pleased to be here today. Firstly, I must thank all of you for joining our seminar. I was told that there are all together around 150 friends from Malaysia attending this event. It is a daunting task to speak right after such an eminent panel of speakers sharing their experiences and expertise.       I would like to begin by a very important fact. That is the relationship between China and Malaysia. The year of 2024 is extremely important because it marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between the two countries. I think the exact date was May 31, 1974. Fast forward, in June this year, the Premier of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Li Qiang, visited Kuala Lumpur. On that occasion, he renewed a co-operation agreement between the two countries for another five years. And fast forward, not too long ago, I think less than two weeks ago on September 20, the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar went to Beijing and met President Xi Jinping. He described the trip as a great success. ASEAN is now the number one trading partner of China, and I understand that Malaysia is going to be the chairman of ASEAN in 2025. So I have no question whatsoever that the relationship between China and Malaysia and ASEAN will be taken to a new height in the very near future.      Now, returning to Hong Kong. Many speakers have already mentioned the historical ties of people-to-people connection. Our Chief Executive actually came to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in July 2023. On that occasion, 11 co-operation agreements and memorandum of understanding were signed. Your Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry actually came to Hong Kong a couple of weeks ago to attend the Hong Kong – ASEAN Summit. And right after that, the governments of Hong Kong and Malaysia announced that we are finalising the negotiation of establishing an Economic and Trade Office (ETO) in Kuala Lumpur and we are very hopeful that the ETO will be established very soon. Once again, that will signify another important development between Hong Kong and Malaysia. So the certainty is that we are going to see a much closer relationship or economic co-operation between the jurisdictions. And against this background, there must be a huge demand and need for legal co-operation between the two jurisdictions. That is exactly the purpose of my trip, joined by a group of very eminent lawyers from Hong Kong.      The message that we wish to convey is reflected by the theme of this seminar – Hong Kong: The Common Law Gateway for Malaysian Businesses to China and Beyond. In answer to one of the questions posed by the participants, we are not saying that Hong Kong is the only gateway. It is not an exclusive gateway, but it is a very unique gateway. It is unique because, as Janice (panel speaker Ms Janice Chew) has mentioned, I used six factors to describe why Hong Kong legal service is unique in the sense that it cannot be found elsewhere. Now I have to repeat the six factors, but I would like to put that in a different way so that my friends who have attended the Ho Chi Minh City event would not feel bored.      The first point is very important, which is also mentioned by some of the speakers — the stability of our common law system which is guaranteed to be continuing beyond 2047. Jern-fei (panel speaker Mr Ng Jern-fei, KC) mentioned that one of the linkage between Malaysia and Hong Kong is that we share the common law heritage. We are common law jurisdictions. In the past, there were questions as to whether the “one country, two systems” principle including our common law system can go beyond 2047. I think Elaine (panel speaker Ms Elaine Lo) gave a very good answer, she referred to government leases. But I can be even more specific. Firstly, I think that is one piece of freehold land in Hong Kong, the St John’s Cathedral. But subject to that, all land in Hong Kong is leasehold land. On July 5 this year, actually a very important legislation came into existence, that is known as the Extension of Government Leases Ordinance. The effect is that most leases in Hong Kong have been automatically renewed for 50 years in the sense that they will go beyond 2047. So it is not just a direction given by the central authorities. That has been given statutory force. I think that serves as a very good piece of evidence proving that the “one country, two systems” principle and the common law system will survive after 2047.      The second factor goes to the reliability of our judicial system. When it comes to reliability of judicial system, I think I have to mention two facts, the quality of our judges and the integrity of our system. I think one of the speakers referred to the fact that the judgments of our Court of Final Appeal (CFA) have been cited in many other common law jurisdictions. I do have the statistics between 2018 and 2024, there are 46 occasions on which CFA judgments have been cited in many common law jurisdictions. This figure is provided by the Judiciary, so I think it is quite reliable. When it comes to integrity, our Judiciary put a lot of emphasis to ensure that our judicial proceedings will remain to be of very high standard and there is no compromise. One example, nowadays we are very fond of using artificial intelligence (AI) in our work. Our Judiciary issued a guideline in July this year regulating the use of artificial intelligence in judicial proceedings, in short, telling the judges in what circumstances and for what purposes they can resort to AI. I think the purpose is to ensure that our judicial proceedings will not be compromised by the use of modern technology. So that’s the second point.      The third point is we have a very business-friendly legal environment. I can again give you some objective evidence. According to the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 compiled by the International Institute for Management Development in Switzerland, Hong Kong overall ranked the fifth, and when it comes to business legislation, the business law, Hong Kong ranked the first in the world. So that tells a lot about the quality of our business law. But we recognise that there is no room for complacency. And Elaine also mentioned one point about how we ensure that our business environment will be as attractive as possible to investors. She referred to a new listing rule. In March last year, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange introduced a Chapter 18C under the Listing Rules to allow specialist technology company to get listed in Hong Kong. And the first successful case actually took place on June 13 this year. A company named QuantumPharm Inc, stationed in Shenzhen and specialised in artificial intelligence and robotics, became a public listed company pursuant to Chapter 18C. Again, that is a very good piece of evidence showing the efforts that we have made to ensure that our laws and regulations will remain to be very business-friendly and attractive.      The fourth point is that we provide a very safe and secure environment – no exchange control, freedom of movement of funds and property. One of the participants asked a question about the ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption), that is a very important matter. In fact, in my very brief conversation with Her Excellency Minister right before we enter this room, this is a matter that we touched upon. Hong Kong is a very safe place because we have very clean law enforcement agencies to ensure that all the laws and regulations will be strictly enforced. There is a Corruption Perceptions Index compiled by an NGO (non-governmental organisation) called Transparency International. I think for the latest survey, Hong Kong ranked 14th out of 180 countries and territories. So that’s why you are so interested about ICAC, because it is the institution responsible for ensuring there is no corruption. So for all practical purpose, there is absence of corruption in Hong Kong.      The fifth point is the feature that distinguishes Hong Kong from any other common law jurisdictions. That is our connection, the connection with the Mainland legal system via a number of very important mutual legal assistance arrangements. Now Joanne (panel speaker Ms Joanne Lau) has mentioned one of them, the interim arrangement, but I would like to give another example, which is also very telling.      In January this year, a mutual legal arrangement concerning the mutual recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters by the courts of the Mainland and of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region came into effect in Hong Kong. It means that a Hong Kong judgment, provided that certain criteria and conditions have been fulfilled, can be enforced and recognised in Mainland China, and vice versa. And I would like to compare the arrangement with the Hague Judgments Convention, because we have adopted the same principle. We are more liberal in the sense that while we are striking a balance between the interest of judgment creditor and the judgment debtor, the scope or the type of cases covered by this arrangement is even wider than the Hague Judgments Convention. It is because some types of intellectual property (IP) cases have been included in the arrangement, whereas IP cases have been completely excluded from the Hague Judgments Convention. So this is my fifth factor.      The last factor is also something very important. It is about the abundant supply of truly international legal practitioners. We have very good examples here. For example, Janice, she is dually qualified in Malaysia and Hong Kong. But she is just one of the numerous examples. There are around 13 000 solicitors, 1 600 barristers and more than 920 law firms in Hong Kong. Some of these firms have altogether 315 oversea offices and 85 offices in Mainland China. And we have 77 registered foreign law firms and more than 1 450 registered foreign lawyers. And I think three of them are qualified in Malaysia. So when you instruct a Hong Kong lawyer, you are not instructing a mere Hong Kong lawyer but you are instructing a global lawyer who is able to provide legal service not confining to matters concerning Hong Kong law.      Another important factor is that we are not just familiar with the common law, we are not just familiar with international law practice, we are also familiar with the Chinese culture – how things are done in our culture, why things are done in a certain way, why documents are drafted in a certain manner. And when it comes to legal service, what is important? It is not simply your knowledge about the law, it is how much you know your client, how much you know how the business community actually works. It is about knowing the people instead of knowing the law on paper.      So combining these six factors, I would venture to say that not only the gateway is a very scenic route, as mentioned by Jern-fei, but it is also a very unique route that you cannot find elsewhere. But to enable the very unique legal services to serve the interests of Malaysia, I think the pre-condition is that we have to know each other better and we have to have more platforms for regular exchanges and to explore opportunities for collaboration.      That’s why I am very delighted that in a moment, the Asian International Arbitration Centre in Malaysia is going to sign MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with the SCIA (South China International Arbitration Center (HK)) and also with eBRAM (eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre). I am aware that you have many questions, but because of the time constraint, the panel speakers were not able to answer all the questions as pointed out about Alex (panel moderator Mr Alexander Tang). But right after this seminar we have a reception which I believe will last until 8pm. So I would encourage all of you to take the opportunity to have more exchanges and to make friends. I’m sure that all the members from the Hong Kong delegation will be more than happy to answer whatever questions that you have in mind.      I always like to use analogy to end my submission. I always describe the legal service offered by Hong Kong is something like you are entering a food plaza or food hall which consists of many different types of restaurants serving different cuisines. And the important point is that no matter what you want, no matter what you need, you name it and you will get it. So that is what Hong Kong undertakes to serve. And I do hope that today marked a new beginning of the collaboration between Malaysia and Hong Kong when it comes to legal co-operation. I look forward to meeting all of you very soon, perhaps right after the seminar or on other occasion. Thank you very much.

     
    Ends/Thursday, September 26, 2024Issued at HKT 23:55

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pandas warmly welcomed to HK

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today officiated at a ceremony to welcome a pair of giant pandas presented by the central government to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region that arrived safely from Dujiangyan, Sichuan.

    The two giant pandas, An An and Ke Ke, left the Dujiangyan Base of the China Conservation & Research Centre for the Giant Panda at 3.05am. They then left Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport this morning, arriving at Hong Kong International Airport at 11.05am.

    At the ceremony, Mr Chan said: “It doubled the happiness to welcome the two recently matured and energetic giant pandas to join the Hong Kong family in the run-up to the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.”

    He thanked the State Council’s Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office, the National Forestry & Grassland Administration, the China Conservation & Research Centre for the Giant Panda, and the Sichuan Provincial Government for their time and tremendous effort in arranging the transfer of the giant pandas to Hong Kong over the past few months.

    “This fully demonstrates the central government’s care and support for the Hong Kong SAR and recognises our efforts in the conservation, caring and rearing of giant pandas, which is of great significance to Hong Kong,” he added.

    Upon their arrival in Hong Kong, the giant pandas were immediately transported to Ocean Park where they will undergo a one-month quarantine period, followed by approximately one month to adapt to their new environment.

    Subject to the health and adaptation condition of the pandas, the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau will arrange for them to meet the public as early as possible.

    The two giant pandas already had names while they were at the China Conservation & Research Centre for the Giant Panda, with the male panda being called An An and the female called Ke Ke.

    To welcome them to the Hong Kong family, the bureau will soon hold a citywide naming competition, inviting all Hong Kong citizens to exercise creativity and suggest meaningful new names for the giant pandas that highlight their characteristics.

    The bureau will also organise a large-scale painting competition, inviting members of the public to vividly depict the adorable nature of the giant pandas through their artwork. Details of the two competitions will be announced shortly.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Blumenauer Proposes Overhaul to Hospice Benefit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-03)

    If enacted, the legislation would be the single most significant update to the hospice benefit and payment structure since its inception in 1982.

     WASHINGTON, D.C — Today, Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, introduced the Hospice Care Accountability, Reform and Enforcement Act (Hospice CARE Act) to modernize Medicare’s hospice benefit, which has remained largely unchanged since its inception in 1982. The proposal comes as egregious reportsof fraud and abuse within the benefit persist, despite action from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The legislation is the product of years of collaboration between stakeholders, lawmakers, and industry leaders. It builds on Blumenauer’s decades-long commitment to ensure the federal government supports families at a time of great stress and vulnerability: the end of life. 

    “The United States spends significantly more on health care than other developed nations for worse outcomes. Nowhere is this more egregious than in the hospice industry,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer. “Patients and families deserve better. We need a reset. It is past time for Congress to act to end the fraud, waste, and abuse within the hospice benefit and bring it into the 21st century.”

    To protect patients and taxpayers, the Hospice CARE Act would institute a number of long overdue reforms to crackdown on fraud while incentivizing high-quality care. Critically, it would:

    • Reform the payment structure: The underlyinghospice per-diem payment structure—which generally pays hospices for each day of care regardless of if care is provided on a given day—rewards bad actors who exploit the benefit for financial gain. The legislation revises the payment structure to ensure that providers are incentivized to deliver high-quality care and meet the current needs of individuals and their families.

    • Bolster program integrity: Additional safeguards and oversight is needed to prevent fraudulent providers from enrolling in Medicare, especially for new hospices. That includes temporarily preventing new hospices from enrolling in Medicare, with exceptions where additional access to care is needed, increasing survey frequency, and increasing ownership transparency

    A one-page fact sheet can be found here. Bill text here. 

    “The hospice benefit, while unique, is ripe for change. This legislation is a first-of-its-kind opportunity to improve it,” said Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO, LeadingAge, the association of nonprofit providers of aging services, including hospice, on the Hospice Care Accountability, Reform and Enforcement (CARE) Act of 2024. “Revising a benefit that has not been altered significantly since its creation in 1982 is a formidable undertaking – but a necessary one. Done right, changes will expand the benefit to support the realities of modern-day hospice care and address vulnerabilities that are currently being exploited.  There is more work to do and we look forward to continuing our productive partnership to ensure this bill achieves these goals.” 

     “The National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI) is thankful for the work of Congressman Blumenauer, his staff, and the Ways and Means Committee staff who worked with the hospice and advanced illness community to put forward the Hospice Care Accountability, Reform, and Enforcement (CARE) Act. This legislation is an encouraging and unique opportunity to consider reforms that would strengthen the Medicare hospice benefit by ensuring it continues to support patients, families, and the non-profit providers who were the original foundation of hospice care,” said Tom Koutsoumpas, CEO and founder of NPHI. “We look forward to continuing to work closely with Congress and relevant stakeholders on efforts to modernize the hospice benefit and improve care of those at the end-of-life.

    “The Coalition to Transform Advanced Care (C-TAC), truly appreciates the introduction of the Hospice Care Accountability, Reform, and Enforcement (Hospice CARE) Act. We commend Representative Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-3rd) for this important work and for his decades of support for compassionate end-of-life care and for bringing policies to the national stage with bi-partisan support,” stated Jon Broyles, C-TAC CEO.  “We have had the privilege to work with the Congressman, his staff, Ways & Means Committee staff and other advocates on this bill and it is an important starting point for ideas that will lead to modernizing the hospice program and improving the lives of people with serious illness and their family caregivers.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “We Will Not Stop Fighting Back”: Whip Clark Slams MAGA Extremism on World Contraception Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Katherine Clark (5th District of Massachusetts)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, in recognition of World Contraception Day, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) joined Rep. Kathy Manning (NC-6), Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-2), Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and reproductive freedom advocates to highlight extremist Republican threats to contraception. 

    “Thank you so much, Congresswoman Manning, for your continued leadership in our defense of reproductive freedom. And to all my colleagues who are here and to all who stand with us. And thank you to Dana and our grassroots partners for bringing your voices to bear in this fight.

    “As Congresswoman Manning said, today is World Contraception Day — a global call for the basic autonomy and bodily freedom that is owed to every person. No matter their gender. No matter the country they happened to be born in.

    “This year’s theme puts it plainly: ‘A choice for all. Freedom to plan. Power to choose.’ Common sense. A cause that we should be fighting for in every corner of the world. A fight America used to lead. But not anymore. 

    “Here in America, MAGA Republican ideology has rolled back the clock on women, on freedom, and on the fight for access to birth control. 
     
    “470 days ago, Congresswoman Manning reintroduced the Right to Contraception Act. Both of the MAGA Majority’s two speakers in this session have refused to put it up for a vote. So this summer — 114 days ago — she filed a discharge petition. An opportunity for every House Republican to show where they stand. To match their rhetoric with an actual signature. A chance to cross the aisle and put people over politics. To choose freedom over fealty to Donald Trump. Not a single Republican has had the courage to make that choice.
     
    “Unfortunately, that does not come as a surprise. They’ve told us their vision for women and girls in this country. It is written down in Project 2025: tearing birth control options out of your insurance coverage, conducting what they call ‘abortion surveillance,’ prosecuting pharmacists and jailing doctors, arresting women for the ‘crime’ of having a miscarriage. All under the authority of a nationwide abortion ban — with zero exceptions.
     
    “So, today is a reminder of just how profound an injustice has been inflicted on us. We should be a model of freedom and dignity. But MAGA Republicans have made us ground zero in the struggle for freedom. They’ve rescinded human rights — and they’re coming for more.

    “We will not stop fighting back. These extraordinary advocates will not stop fighting back. The American people will not stop fighting back, until we restore and permanently cement reproductive freedom in our country.
     
    “And now, it’s my pleasure to introduce a leading champion for that brighter future, our colleague from Florida, Debbie Wasserman Schultz.”

    Photos of the event can be found HERE, the full event can be viewed HERE. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –