Category: Artificial Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI: Bear In Bathrobe ($BIB) Now Listed on ZEBACUS: A New Milestone for the Meme Token Revolution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bear In Bathrobe ($BIB), the fun yet powerful meme token taking the crypto space by storm, has officially been listed on ZEBACUS, a leading cryptocurrency exchange. This landmark listing marks a significant step in $BIB’s mission to redefine the meme coin landscape and bring utility-driven engagement to its ever-growing community.

    With this new listing, traders and investors can now buy, sell, and trade $BIB seamlessly on ZEBACUS, enhancing the token’s accessibility and liquidity in the global crypto market.

    What Makes $BIB Unique?

    Bear In Bathrobe ($BIB) is more than just another meme token, it’s a movement. Combining humor, community engagement, and real-world use cases, $BIB is designed to bring a fresh perspective to the meme coin space. Built on a robust blockchain infrastructure, the project offers token holders exclusive benefits, including NFT integrations, staking opportunities, and community-driven incentives.

    What’s Next for Bear In Bathrobe ($BIB)?

    The $BIB team is continuously innovating, with exciting developments in the pipeline, including partnerships, NFT expansions, and additional exchange listings. This listing on ZEBACUS is just the beginning of an exhilarating journey.

    Buy $BIB Now!

    Crypto enthusiasts looking to join the Bear In Bathrobe movement can now trade $BIB on ZEBACUS and become part of a rapidly growing ecosystem.

    For more details, visit https://bearinbathrobe.com or follow us on social media for the latest updates.

    About Bear In Bathrobe ($BIB)

    $BIB is a community-driven meme token with a mission to combine entertainment, engagement, and real-world use cases in the blockchain space. With a strong and passionate community, $BIB aims to redefine how meme tokens are perceived in the crypto industry.

    With the meme coin rotation in full swing, investors are watching closely and speculation is mounting on whether BIB could be the next major 100x player.

    Stay updated and check the charts before it’s too late:

    Website: bearinbathrobe.com

    X (Twitter): x.com/BearInBathrobe

    Telegram: t.me/BearInBathrobe

    DEXTools Chart: dextools.io

    Contact Us:

    Mr. Junior Smith
    Bear In Bathrobe ($BIB)
    general@bearinbathrobe.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by “Bear In Bathrobe(BIB)”. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, investment, or trading advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities .Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/911b61a6-b0c7-42d9-9708-c4ac471d503d

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Last Chance to Experience the Magic of the Galaxy S25 at Galaxy Studio, Canal Walk

    Source: Samsung

    The clock is ticking, and time is running out to witness the next big leap in mobile AI technology. Galaxy Studio at Canal Walk Shopping Centre has been an overwhelming success, with countless visitors coming to explore the cutting-edge features of the new Galaxy S25 Series. If you haven’t had the chance to see it for yourself, now is your final opportunity!
     

     
    Only until Monday, 17 February 2025 – Galaxy Studio will soon be wrapping up its incredible run at Canal Walk. This is your last chance to immerse yourself in the world of next-gen mobile AI and experience all the innovative features that make the Galaxy S25 Series truly revolutionary.
     
    Step into a space where technology meets convenience, and see how the Galaxy S25 Series seamlessly integrates into your daily life. With the new One UI 7.0 and enhanced AI capabilities, this is more than just a phone – it’s a personalised mobile assistant that adapts to your needs. From anticipating your next step to offering tailored insights, the Galaxy S25 makes every moment smoother and more efficient.
     
    At Galaxy Studio, visitors have been captivated by live demonstrations showcasing AI-powered features like the AI-enhanced camera, Nightography at the concert-themed booth, and how the phone effortlessly helps organise your day. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply curious about how mobile AI can elevate your daily routine, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
     

     
    Don’t wait – visit Galaxy Studio today and see what the future of mobile technology holds.
     
    Admission is free, but the experience is priceless. Make sure to stop by before it’s gone!
     
    For more information and updates, follow Samsung South Africa on social media – @SamsungmobileSA (X, Instagram), Samsung South Africa (Facebook).

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN, China strengthen commitment to closer cooperation

    Source: ASEAN

    NINGBO, CHINA, 13 February 2025 – ASEAN and China reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) at the 31st ASEAN-China Senior Officials’ Consultation, held today in Ningbo City, China.  

    China reiterated its support for ASEAN Community-building efforts and ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs. China also reaffirmed the high priority it places on its relationship with ASEAN as part of its neighbourhood diplomacy.

    Both sides reviewed the continued progress of ASEAN-China cooperation over the past year. Substantive progress has been achieved in the final year of the implementation of the ASEAN-China Plan of Action 2021-2025 and its Annex to advance the CSP. ASEAN and China continued to enhance cooperation under the CSP, with a focus placed on key areas such as trade and investment, green economy, connectivity, digital ecosystems, blue economy, clean energy, agriculture and food security, culture, and tourism.

    The meeting also discussed deliverables of ASEAN-China cooperation for 2025 and preparations for the upcoming ASEAN-China Ministerial Meeting in July. These deliverables include the signing of the ASEAN-China FTA 3.0 upgrade, the adoption of the new ASEAN-China Plan of Action for 2026-2030, and the establishment of the ASEAN-China Tourism Ministers meeting, among others.

    China also put forward proposals for enhancing cooperation in maritime cooperation, artificial intelligence, transport, blue economy, women and children health, and environment.

    Under the theme of the ASEAN-China Year of People-to-People Exchanges, various projects and activities are planned and will be implemented in ASEAN Member States and China to foster greater cultural and people-to-people connectivity.

    The Senior Officials exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual concern, underscoring the importance of strengthened cooperation in addressing security challenges, including terrorism, human trafficking, illicit drug abuse, and cybercrime.

    The meeting was co-chaired by Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, and  Vice Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China, Sun Weidong, and attended by Senior Officials from ASEAN Member States or their representatives and the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.

    *******

    Images Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The People’s Republic of China
    The post ASEAN, China strengthen commitment to closer cooperation appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Empowering Albertans with disabilities | Autonomiser les Albertains en situation de handicap

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    People with disabilities shouldn’t have to choose between getting the support they need and having the opportunity to pursue a meaningful career. Albertans with disabilities and the organizations that support them have said loud and clear they want supports that meet their unique needs and abilities, rather than the current one-size-fits-all solution.

    In response to that request, Alberta’s government is creating a new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), which will launch in July 2026. This new benefit program for people with disabilities will empower Albertans with disabilities to pursue fulfilling job opportunities while continuing to receive the benefits they need.

    “People with disabilities should not be punished for getting a job. Every dollar they earn on a paycheque should be helping make them better off, not threatening their access to the medication they need. That’s why I am excited to announce the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact that it will have on Albertans with disabilities.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    ADAP was thoughtfully designed based on input from Albertans with disabilities, who stressed the importance of providing pathways to employment for individuals who are able to work but still need supports. Albertans on ADAP will be able to earn more from working while continuing to receive their financial benefits, with higher earning exemptions than any other program. Those on ADAP will also be able to receive the health benefits they need, regardless of their employment income. This new program will ensure more Albertans with disabilities can enjoy the benefits of working like earning a paycheque, developing skills and building relationships, while still receiving supports that meet their unique needs and abilities.

    “I strongly believe in empowering persons with disabilities to reach their full potential, and I also strongly believe that all people deserve to pursue their goals and aspirations without barriers. By creating this program, the province is making it easier for Albertans to find success. ADAP will truly help to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this new program.”

    Greg McMeekin, Alberta’s advocate for persons with disabilities

    Through ADAP, Albertans with disabilities will not only receive the financial and health benefits they rely on, but they will also have access to the resources and tools they need to gain new skills and work to their full potential. To support this, Alberta’s government will be investing more to expand employment supports and encourage private sector employers to break down barriers to employment for people with disabilities. By providing pathways to employment for individuals who are able to work but still need supports, Alberta’s government is empowering people with disabilities to pursue their passions, leading to a greater sense of purpose and improved quality of life.

    “At Prospect Human Services, we’ve been helping individuals with disabilities build sustainable, well-paying careers for more than 60 years – and we know it’s possible. With ADAP, Alberta is breaking down the barriers that have long separated support from opportunity, creating a pathway for people to realize their full potential while maintaining essential benefits. We applaud the Alberta government for designing a flexible initiative that offers stability and empowers Albertans with disabilities to embrace the transformative power of employment.”

    Kevin McNichol, CEO of Prospect Human Services

    Alberta provides some of the most comprehensive supports in the country for people with disabilities, and the long-standing Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program will still be there for those with permanent and severe disabilities who are unable to work. Those currently on AISH will continue to receive their benefits, and applications will continue to be processed to ensure eligible applicants receive benefits as soon as possible. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring that the province continues to have the best disability programs in Canada.

    “Today is a tremendous day that has been a long time coming. ADAP means faster access to more appropriate support and will be a significant step toward making Alberta the most accessible province in Canada. This will encourage participation and connection in our communities, while maintaining predictable, vital supports for every Albertan who needs them. We look forward to helping shape this groundbreaking program.”

    Jacob McGregor, chair of Premier’s Council for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

    Starting in July 2026, disability income assistance applicants will be assessed for both the new program and AISH, ensuring eligible applicants are placed in the program best suited to their unique situation. To make the medical assessment process quicker and more accessible, applicants will be connected with a roster of pre-qualified medical professionals who are able to complete their comprehensive medical assessment. Additionally, application approvals will be streamlined by establishing a new review panel made up of medical professionals with the expertise required to better understand the needs of applicants. These improvements will ensure Albertans with disabilities are able to get the supports they need sooner.

    “For many people with disabilities, employment isn’t just about earning a paycheck – it’s about purpose, independence and inclusion. This program can allow for new opportunities for individuals to contribute to their communities in ways that work for them.”

    Katherine Such, CEO of Easter Seals Alberta Society

    Quick facts

    • In 2024, the province invested more than $3.5 billion to support Albertans with disabilities, the highest amount ever.
    • The new Alberta Disability Assistance Program will become operational in July 2026.
    • Those currently on AISH will continue to receive their benefits.
      • All existing AISH clients will receive more information about the new program in March.
      • Clients can also contact their worker or Alberta Supports if they have questions or want additional information. 

    Related information

    • Alberta Disability Assistance Program
    • Fact sheet

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    Le gouvernement de l’Alberta lancera un nouveau programme destiné aux Albertains en situation de handicap afin qu’ils puissent recevoir le soutien dont ils ont besoin tout en poursuivant une carrière valorisante.

    Les personnes en situation de handicap ne devraient pas avoir à choisir entre obtenir un soutien nécessaire et avoir la possibilité de mener une carrière enrichissante. Les Albertains en situation de handicap et les organisations qui les soutiennent ont clairement exprimé leur souhait d’un accompagnement mieux adapté aux besoins individuels, plutôt qu’une approche unique et standardisée.

    En réponse à cette demande, le gouvernement de l’Alberta met en place un nouveau programme d’aide aux personnes en situation de handicap, le Programme d’Aide aux Personnes en Situation de Handicap de l’Alberta (ADAP), qui sera lancé en juillet 2026. Ce nouveau programme d’aide offrira aux Albertains en situation de handicap la possibilité d’accéder à des emplois épanouissants tout en leur permettant de recevoir les prestations dont ils ont besoin.

    “Les personnes en situation de handicap ne devraient pas être pénalisées parce qu’elles ont un travail. Chaque dollar qu’elles gagnent grâce à leur emploi devrait les aider à mieux vivre, et non rendre problématique l’accès à des médicaments essentiels. C’est pourquoi je suis ravi d’annoncer le lancement du Programme d’Aide aux Personnes en Situation de Handicap de l’Alberta, et je me réjouis des retombées positives qu’il aura sur les Albertains concernés.”

    Jason Nixon, ministre des Aînés, des Communautés et des Services sociaux

    L’ADAP a été conçu avec soin en tenant compte de l’avis des Albertains en situation de handicap. Ces derniers ont, en effet, souligné l’importance d’offrir des voies d’accès à l’emploi aux personnes handicapées capables de travailler même si elles ont toujours besoin de soins ou de soutien. Grâce à l’ADAP, les Albertains admissibles pourront augmenter leur revenu d’emploi tout en conservant leurs prestations financières, bénéficiant ainsi des exemptions de revenu les plus avantageuses de tous les programmes existants. Les bénéficiaires de l’ADAP pourront également continuer de recevoir les prestations de santé dont ils ont besoin, quel que soit leur revenu d’emploi. Grâce à ce nouveau programme, plus d’Albertains en situation de handicap pourront travailler et profiter des bienfaits d’un emploi, comme recevoir une paie, apprendre de nouvelles compétences et tisser des liens, tout en conservant un soutien adapté à leurs besoins spécifiques.

    “Je crois fermement qu’il est essentiel de donner aux personnes en situation de handicap les moyens d’atteindre leur plein potentiel. Et je suis tout aussi convaincu que chacun mérite de poursuivre ses objectifs et ses aspirations sans obstacle. Grâce à ce programme, la province aide les Albertains à atteindre leurs objectifs et à réussir. L’ADAP contribuera à améliorer réellement la qualité de vie des personnes en situation de handicap, et je me réjouis des effets positifs que ce programme apportera.”

    Greg McMeekin, défenseur des droits des personnes en situation de handicap de l’Alberta

    Grâce à l’ADAP, les Albertains en situation de handicap recevront non seulement les prestations financières et de santé sur lesquelles ils comptent, mais ils auront aussi accès aux ressources et aux outils nécessaires pour acquérir de nouvelles compétences et exploiter pleinement leur potentiel professionnel. Pour soutenir cette initiative, le gouvernement de l’Alberta investira davantage afin d’élargir les mesures de soutien à l’emploi et inciter les employeurs du secteur privé à éliminer les obstacles à l’embauche des personnes en situation de handicap. Le gouvernement de l’Alberta met en place des voies d’accès à l’emploi pour les personnes capables de travailler mais qui ont toujours besoin de soutien. Cette initiative donne à chacun les moyens de poursuivre ses passions et contribue à un plus grand épanouissement ainsi qu’à une meilleure qualité de vie.

    “Chez Prospect Human Services, nous aidons les personnes en situation de handicap à bâtir des carrières durables et bien rémunérées depuis plus de 60 ans – et nous savons que c’est possible. Avec l’ADAP, l’Alberta supprime les obstacles qui, depuis trop longtemps, ont séparé le besoin de soutien et l’accès aux opportunités, permettant aux personnes de développer pleinement leur potentiel tout en maintenant les prestations dont elles ont besoin. Nous remercions le gouvernement de l’Alberta d’avoir conçu une initiative souple qui garantit la stabilité et donne aux Albertains en situation de handicap les moyens de profiter pleinement des bienfaits de l’emploi.”

    Kevin McNichol, président-directeur général de Prospect Human Services

    L’Alberta met à disposition certains des programmes de soutien les plus complets du pays pour les personnes en situation de handicap. Le programme de revenu pour les personnes gravement handicapées (AISH), qui existe depuis longtemps, restera en place pour les personnes qui ont un handicap permanent et sévère les empêchant de travailler. Les bénéficiaires actuels de l’AISH continueront de recevoir leurs prestations, et les demandes continueront d’être traitées afin que les personnes admissibles reçoivent leur aide dans les meilleurs délais. Le gouvernement de l’Alberta s’engage à faire en sorte que la province continue d’offrir les meilleurs programmes de soutien aux personnes en situation de handicap au Canada.

    “C’est un jour marquant qui a été espéré et attendu pendant longtemps. L’ADAP offrira un accès plus efficace à des soutiens mieux adaptés, ce qui fait de l’Alberta un modèle en matière d’accessibilité au Canada. Cette mesure incitera à une plus grande inclusion sociale et communautaire, garantissant aux Albertains en situation de handicap des soutiens fiables et essentiels. Nous nous réjouissons à l’idée de pouvoir apporter notre contribution à ce programme innovant.”

    Jacob McGregor, président du Conseil du premier ministre sur la condition des personnes en situation de handicap

    À compter de juillet 2026, les demandeurs d’aide au revenu pour les personnes en situation de handicap seront évalués à la fois pour le nouveau programme et pour l’AISH, afin de s’assurer que les personnes admissibles soient orientées vers le programme le mieux adapté à leur situation. Pour accélérer et faciliter le processus d’évaluation médicale, les demandeurs seront mis en relation avec un réseau de professionnels de la santé préqualifiés, en mesure de réaliser leur évaluation médicale complète. De plus, l’approbation des demandes sera simplifiée grâce à la mise en place d’un nouveau comité d’examen composé de professionnels de la santé possédant l’expertise nécessaire pour mieux comprendre les besoins des demandeurs. Ces améliorations permettront aux Albertains en situation de handicap d’obtenir plus rapidement le soutien dont ils ont besoin.

    “Pour de nombreuses personnes en situation de handicap, l’emploi ne se résume pas à un salaire – c’est aussi une source d’épanouissement, d’autonomie et d’inclusion. Ce programme offrira de nouvelles occasions aux personnes de contribuer à leur communauté d’une manière qui correspond à leurs capacités et à leurs besoins.”

    Katherine Such, présidente-directrice générale de la Easter Seals Alberta Society

    Faits en bref

    • En 2024, la province a investi plus de 3,5 milliards de dollars pour soutenir les Albertains en situation de handicap, un montant sans précédent.
    • Le Programme d’aide aux personnes en situation de handicap de l’Alberta (ADAP) entrera en vigueur en juillet 2026.
    • Les bénéficiaires actuels de l’AISH continueront de recevoir leurs prestations.
      • Tous les bénéficiaires de l’AISH recevront plus d’informations sur le nouveau programme en mars.
      • Ils peuvent également contacter leur travailleur social ou Alberta Supports pour toute question ou information complémentaire. 

    Informations connexes

    • Programme d’aide aux personnes en situation de handicap de l’Alberta
    • Fiche d’information

    Multimédia

    • Voir la conférence de presse

    Translations

    • Arabic
    • Simplified Chinese
    • Traditional Chinese
    • Hindi
    • Korean
    • Persian
    • Punjabi
    • Somali
    • Spanish
    • Tagalog
    • Ukrainian
    • Urdu
    • Vietnamese

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Ooredoo Qatar taps Nokia 5G Standalone Core to deliver advanced network services and generate new revenue streams

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Ooredoo Qatar taps Nokia 5G Standalone Core to deliver advanced network services and generate new revenue streams

    • Nokia will deliver a modernized core network that enables Ooredoo Qatar to offer more advanced services using network slicing.
    • Network will generate new consumer and enterprise revenue streams across industries such as ports, mining and natural gas.

    13 February 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Ooredoo Qatar, the leading telecommunications company in Qatar with more than 3.4 million customers, has selected Nokia to modernize the operator’s core network to enable the delivery of more advanced services, using network slicing and the integration of AI and machine learning capabilities that strengthen network performance, reliability, and the overall customer experience.

    The modernization will support Ooredoo Qatar’s network evolution to unlock more value faster from its network assets through new business models and consumer and enterprise revenue streams.

    Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chief Executive Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, said: “Our vision is about enriching people’s digital lives and taking this important step with Nokia, of moving to a 5G standalone core network, supports our group-wide project initiatives of evolving our network operations with new digital capabilities and business models that strengthen the customer and enterprise experience.”

    The deal includes Nokia 5G voice corepacket core, and subscriber data management, which will provide Ooredoo Qatar with the capabilities to deliver ultra-low latency bandwidth and multi-access edge computing, which are needed to provide real-time industrial automation and high-quality gaming experiences at scale. 

    Nokia’s core solutions give communication service providers the flexibility required to operate multi-vendor networks. Ooredoo Qatar will also be able to create thousands of virtual networks on a single physical network infrastructure, with each “slice” tailored to specific requirements for different applications, services, and customers. 

    Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services at Nokia, said: “As a leading operator in the Middle East, Ooredoo Qatar continues to drive transformation projects that meet its customers’ evolving digital needs. We are delighted to grow Nokia’s strong partnership with Ooredoo Qatar by providing our flexible 5G standalone Core capabilities and supporting the operator’s multi-level network requirements.”

    Ooredoo Qatar will also use Nokia’s MantaRay NM solution for a consolidated and automated network view that optimizes network monitoring and management.

    The deal includes the rollout of Nokia Data Center Fabric solution, which enables data centers and cloud environments to easily scale, adapt, and operate. As part of the solution, Nokia’s 7220 Interconnect Router (IXR) system will be deployed, allowing Ooredoo Qatar to provide its services at higher efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and increased capacity.

    Nokia had the most 5G Standalone Core communication service provider customers, with 123 in total, at the end of 2024.

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

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

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

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

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Valeura Energy Inc.: Record Reserves and Resources at Year-End 2024: 2P Reserves Replacement Ratio of 245%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE, OTCQX:VLERF) (“Valeura” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the results of its third-party independent reserves and resources assessment as at year-end 2024.

    Highlights

    • Record high year-end reserves: 32 MMbbl proved (1P), 50 MMbbl proved plus probable (2P) and 60 MMbbl proved plus probable plus possible (3P) reserves;
    • 2P reserves replacement ratio of 245% even after annual production increase of 12%;
    • 2P reserves and end of field life (“EOFL”) increased at every field;
    • 2P reserves net present value before tax of US$934 million and US$752 million after tax(1);
    • Considering year-end 2024 cash position of US$259 million, Company net asset value (“NAV”) is US$1,012 million, equating C$13.6 per common share(2);
    • Contingent resources(3) of 48 MMbbl, more than double the total at end 2023; and
    • Decommissioning costs significantly reduced through engineering studies and increased EOFL to beyond 2030.
    (1) Discounted at 10% (NPV10)
    (2) Proved plus probable (2P) NPV10after tax plus cash of US$259.4 million (no debt), using US$/C$ exchange rate of 1.435, and 106.65 million common shares outstanding, as at December 31, 2024
    (3) Unrisked 2C (best estimate) contingent resources

    Dr. Sean Guest, President and CEO commented:

    “I am pleased to announce the results of our end 2024 reserves and resources evaluation, which shows again that our aggressive work programme can increase the ultimate potential of our fields and add value to our Company. In our second full year of operations we have again added more than double the reserves we produced, achieving a 2P reserves replacement ratio of 245%. This is a significant feat, considering we also increased production by 12% relative to 2023.

    We also added to the ultimate potential of our portfolio, with all Thailand fields now having an economic field life lasting beyond 2030. Since taking over these assets, we have added at least four additional years of production life to each field. This means more years of future cash flow and is therefore a prime example of one key element of our strategy in action – driving further organic growth.

    The net asset value of our business is now over US$1 billion – a record high, equating to more than C$13.6 per common share. This is based on our 2P after tax NPV10increasing by 76% year-on-year, coupled with a new record year-end cash position.

    In addition to discovering volumes through the drill bit and aggressively working to build our understanding of the intricate subsurface environment, various other financial and engineering studies have also added value. Our field abandonment costs have been reduced further through updated engineering studies which are benchmarked to actual abandonment operations in the Gulf of Thailand. The effect of this, combined with extended field life across the portfolio, is expected to reduce our Asset Retirement Obligation (“ARO”) on our balance sheet by more than 50% since we first assumed operatorship of these assets.

    We are relentless in our pursuit of value and we remain focussed on allocating capital efficiently. Moreover, we see exciting reserves-adding opportunities ahead through the potential Wassana field redevelopment, as well as through ongoing infill development and appraisal drilling across the portfolio, and the selective exploration targets we will pursue this year.

    At the same time, inorganic growth remains a key part of our strategy, and we are actively evaluating several opportunities to assess fit with our strict screening criteria.”

    Valeura commissioned Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. (“NSAI”) to assess reserves and resources for all of its Thailand assets as of December 31, 2024. NSAI’s evaluation is presented in a report dated February 13, 2025 (the “NSAI 2024 Report”). This follows previous evaluations conducted by the same firm for December 31, 2023 (the “NSAI 2023 Report”) and December 31, 2022 (the “NSAI 2022 Report”).

    Oil and Gas Reserves by Field Based on Forecast Prices and Costs

        Gross (Before Royalties) Reserves, Working Interest Share (Mbbl)
    Reserves by Field Jasmine
    (Light/Medium)
    Manora
    (Light/Medium)
    Nong Yao
    (Light/Medium)
    Wassana
    (Heavy)
    Total
    Proved Producing Developed 5,268 1,370 6,541 2,894 16,073
    Non-Producing Developed 703 433 153 242 1,531
    Undeveloped 4,713 705 3,742 5,490 14,650
    Total Proved (1P) 10,684 2,509 10,436 8,626 32,255
    Total Probable (P2) 6,108 848 6,500 4,297 17,753
    Total Proved + Probable (2P) 16,792 3,357 16,936 12,923 50,008
    Total Possible (P3) 3,647 718 4,297 1,027 9,689
    Total Proved + Probable + Possible (3P) 20,440 4,075 21,233 13,950 59,697

     
    Summary of Reserves Replacement, Value, and Field Life

    As compared to the NSAI 2023 Report, the NSAI 2024 Report indicates an addition of 2.4 MMbbl of proved (1P) reserves and 12.1 MMbbl of proved plus probable (2P) reserves, after having produced 8.4 MMbbl of oil in 2024. This reflects a 1P reserves replacement ratio of 128% and a 2P reserves replacement ratio of 245%.

    Based on the mid-point of the Company’s 2025 production guidance of 23.0 – 25.5 Mbbl/d (24.25 Mbbl/d), on a 2P reserves basis as of December 31, 2024, the Company estimates its reserves life index (“RLI”) to be approximately 5.6 years. Using the same 2025 production estimate and 2P reserves as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the RLI was approximately 4.3, and 3.3 years, respectively.

    The net present value of estimated future revenue after income taxes, based on a 10% discount rate has increased between the NSAI 2023 Report and the NSAI 2024 Report from US$193.9 million to US$358.6 million on a 1P basis, an increase of 85%. On a 2P basis, the net present value of estimated future revenue after income taxes, based on a 10% discount rate has increased from US$428.5 million to US$752.2 million, an increase of 76%.

    The Company estimates that, based on the 2P net present value of estimated future revenue after income taxes in the NSAI 2024 Report, based on a 10% discount rate, plus the Company’s 2024 year-end cash position of US$259.4 million, as disclosed on January 8, 2025, the Company has a 2P net asset value (“NAV”) of US$1,011.6 million. Using the year-end count of common shares outstanding (being 106.65 million) and foreign exchange rates, Valeura’s NAV equates to approximately C$13.6/share.

      1P NPV10 2P NPV10 3P NPV10
      Before Tax After Tax Before Tax After Tax Before Tax After Tax
    NPV10(US$ million) 360.7 358.6 933.9 752.2 1,339.1 990.2
    Cash at December 31, 2024 (US$ million)(1) 259.4 259.4 259.4 259.4 259.4 259.4
    Net Asset Value (US$ million) 620.1 618.0 1,193.3 1,011.6 1,598.5 1,249.6
    Common shares (million)(2) 106.65 106.65 106.65 106.65 106.65 106.65
    Estimated NAV per basic share (C$ per share)(3) 8.3 8.3 16.1 13.6 21.5 16.8
    (1) Cash at December 31, 2024 of US$259.4 million, debt nil
    (2) Issued and outstanding common shares as of December 31, 2024
    (3) US$/C$ exchange rate of 1.435 as at December 31, 2024

    The NSAI 2024 Report indicates a further extension in the anticipated end of field life for all assets in Valeura’s Thailand portfolio, as compared to the NSAI 2023 Report.

      Gross (Before Royalties) 2P Reserves, Working Interest Share End of Field Life 2P NPV10After Tax (US$ million)
    Fields December 31, 2023
    (MMbbl)
    2024 Production
    (MMbbl)
    Additions
    (MMbbl)
    December 31, 2024
    (MMbbl)
    Reserves Replacement Ratio (%) NSAI 2023 Report NSAI 2024 Report December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024
    Jasmine 10.4 (2.9 ) 9.2 16.8 324 % Dec 2028 Aug 2031 81.8 163.9
    Manora 2.2 (0.9 ) 2.1 3.4 223 % Jul 2027 Apr 2030 21.2 45.7
    Nong Yao 12.4 (3.1 ) 7.7 16.9 245 % Dec 2028 Dec 2033 185.6 416.1
    Wassana 12.9 (1.4 ) 1.5 12.9 102 % Jun 2032 Dec 2035 139.9 126.6
    Total 37.9 (8.4 ) 20.5 50.0 245 %     428.5 752.2

     
    Valeura has demonstrated two consecutive years of growth in both aggregate 2P reserves and the associated after-tax 2P NPV10 value.

      Gross (Before Royalties) 2P Reserves,
    Working Interest Share (MMbbl)
    2P NPV10After Tax
    (US$ million)
    Fields December 31, 2022 December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024 December 31, 2022 December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024
    Jasmine 10.0 10.4 16.8 37.1 81.8 163.9
    Manora 1.8 2.2 3.4 12.1 21.2 45.7
    Nong Yao 11.2 12.4 16.9 145.5 185.6 416.1
    Wassana 6.1 12.9 12.9 66.3 139.9 126.6
    Total 29.1 37.9 50.0 261.0 428.5 752.2

     
    The NSAI 2024 Report does not assume a new redevelopment concept for the Wassana field and therefore does not include potential upside volumes associated with the Company’s contemplated redevelopment. Valeura is targeting readiness for a final investment decision (“FID”) in early Q2 2025. Should the Company opt to proceed with the redevelopment, management anticipates a higher production profile, with longer field life than is currently reflected in the NSAI 2024 Report.

    Net Present Values of Future Net Revenue Based on Forecast Prices and Costs

    Net present values of future net revenue from oil reserves are based on cost estimates as of the date of the NSAI 2024 Report, and forecast Brent crude oil reference prices of US$75.58, US$78.51, US$79.89, US$81.82, and US$83.46 per bbl for the years ending December 31, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029, respectively, with 2% escalation thereafter. NSAI assumes cost inflation of 2% per annum. Price realisation forecasts for each field are based on the Brent crude oil reference prices above, and adjusted for oil quality, and market differentials.

    Based on Valeura’s revised corporate structure, as modified by the reorganisation completed in November 2024, values estimated by NSAI assume a combined, single tax filing for all of the Company’s Thai III fiscal concessions, covering the Wassana, Nong Yao, and Manora fields. The Jasmine field, being a Thai I fiscal concession, is outside this scope.

    All estimated costs associated with the eventual decommissioning of the Company’s fields are included as part of the calculation of future net revenue, specifically within the Proved Producing Developed category.

        Before Tax NPV10(US$ million)
    Future Net Revenue by Field Jasmine Manora Nong Yao Wassana Total
    Proved Producing Developed (124.7)   (27.6)   146.2 (160.7)   (166.8)  
    Non-Producing Developed 35.3   27.9   7.0 16.2   86.4  
    Undeveloped 93.6   7.9   108.1 231.5   441.0  
    Total Proved (1P) 4.2   8.2   261.3 87.0   360.7  
    Total Probable (P2) 217.4   39.1   204.5 112.3   573.3  
    Total Proved + Probable (2P) 221.5   47.3   465.8 199.3   933.9  
    Total Possible (P3) 168.8   29.6   150.7 56.1   405.1  
    Total Proved + Probable + Possible (3P) 390.3   76.9   616.5 255.4   1,339.1  
        After Tax NPV10(US$ million)
    Future Net Revenue by Field Jasmine Manora Nong Yao Wassana Total
    Proved Producing Developed (131.4)   (27.6)   146.2 (160.7)   (173.4)  
    Non-Producing Developed 33.9   27.9   7.0 16.2   85.1  
    Undeveloped 99.6   7.9   108.1 231.5   447.0  
    Total Proved (1P) 2.1   8.2   261.3 87.0   358.6  
    Total Probable (P2) 161.8   37.4   154.8 39.6   393.6  
    Total Proved + Probable (2P) 163.9   45.7   416.1 126.6   752.2  
    Total Possible (P3) 96.7   20.4   93.3 27.6   238.0  
    Total Proved + Probable + Possible (3P) 260.6   66.1   509.3 154.2   990.2  

     
    Asset Retirement Obligations

    During 2024, the Company conducted extensive engineering studies into the eventual decommissioning of its fields. These studies utilised costs benchmarked to current decommissioning activities underway elsewhere within the Gulf of Thailand. Valeura’s work since acquiring the assets in early 2023 has resulted in a reduction of 32% in the anticipated cost to decommission the assets (US$ real basis).  

    In addition, the significant extensions to the economic life of all of the Company’s fields means the timing for decommissioning expenditure has shifted further into the future. The combined effect is estimated to be a material reduction in the ARO liability to be shown on the Company’s balance sheet. While the final ARO is still to be reviewed by the Company’s auditor, management estimates that the ARO as at December 31, 2024 will have been reduced by approximately 35% from year-end 2023 and more than 50% relative to the Company’s first estimate upon assuming operatorship of the Thai portfolio in Q1 2023.

    Resources

    NSAI assessed the Company’s contingent resources of its Thailand assets for additional reservoir accumulations and reported estimates in the NSAI 2024 Report, the NSAI 2023 Report, and the NSAI 2022 Report. Contingent resources are heavy crude oil and light/medium crude oil, and are further divided into two subcategories, being Development Unclarified and Development Not Viable (see oil and gas advisories). Each subcategory is assigned a percentage risk, reflecting the estimated chance of development. Aggregate totals are provided below.

    Contingent Resources NSAI 2022 Report
    Gross (Before Royalties) Working Interest Share
    NSAI 2023 Report
    Gross (Before Royalties) Working Interest Share
    NSAI 2024 Report
    Gross (Before Royalties) Working Interest Share
    Unrisked (MMbbl) Risked (MMbbl) Unrisked (MMbbl) Risked (MMbbl) Unrisked (MMbbl) Risked (MMbbl)
    Low Estimate (1C) 10.4 1.8 15.2 6.5 29.4 9.2
    Best Estimate (2C) 14.1 2.5 19.9 8.9 48.4 13.5
    High Estimate (3C) 22.1 3.9 27.9 11.6 72.1 18.0

     
    Comparing the NSAI 2023 Report to the NSAI 2024 Report, the Company has recorded an increase in the best estimate (2C) unrisked contingent resources of 143%.

    The Company last completed an independent assessment of its prospective resources in Türkiye, effective December 31, 2018, which is available under Valeura’s issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Valeura has no reserves or contingent resources associated with its properties in Türkiye.

    Further Disclosure and Webcast
    Valeura intends to disclose a summary of the NSAI 2024 Report to Thailand’s upstream regulator later in February 2025. Thereafter, the Company will publish its estimates of reserves and resources in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities along with its annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2025, on approximately March 26, 2025.

    Valeura’s management team will host an investor and analyst webcast at 08:00 Calgary / 15:00 London / 22:00 Bangkok / 23:00 Singapore on Thursday, February 13, 2025 to discuss its reserves and contingent resources. Please register in advance via the link below.

    Registration link: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/a527dbad-61ff-47b1-8330-a10c28cfd2ee@a196a1a0-4579-4a0c-b3a3-855f4db8f64b

    As an alternative, an audio only feed of the event is available by phone using the Conference ID and dial-in numbers below.

    Thailand: +66 2 026 9035,,817613646#
    Singapore: +65 6450 6302,,817613646#
    Canada: (833) 845-9589,,817613646#
    Türkiye: 0800 142 034779,,817613646#
    United States: (833) 846-5630,,817613646#
    United Kingdom: 0800 640 3933,,817613646#

    Phone conference ID: 817 613 646#

    For further information, please contact:

    Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries)                +65 6373 6940
    Sean Guest, President and CEO
    Yacine Ben-Meriem, CFO
    Contact@valeuraenergy.com

    Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor and Media Enquiries)                +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495
    Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations
    IR@valeuraenergy.com

    Contact details for the Company’s advisors, covering research analysts and joint brokers, including Auctus Advisors LLP, Canaccord Genuity Ltd (UK), Cormark Securities Inc., Research Capital Corporation, and Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited, are listed on the Company’s website at www.valeuraenergy.com/investor-information/analysts/.

    About the Company

    Valeura Energy Inc. is a Canadian public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Türkiye. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.

    Additional information relating to Valeura is also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Oil and Gas Advisories

    Reserves and contingent resources disclosed in this news release are based on an independent evaluation conducted by the incumbent independent petroleum engineering firm, NSAI with an effective date of December 31, 2024. The NSAI estimates of reserves and resources were prepared using guidelines outlined in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook and in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities. The reserves and contingent resources estimates disclosed in this news release are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves and contingent resources will be recovered.

    This news release contains a number of oil and gas metrics, including “NAV”, “reserves replacement ratio”, “RLI”, and “end of field life” which do not have standardised meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Such metrics are commonly used in the oil and gas industry and have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods.

    “NAV” is calculated by adding the estimated future net revenues based on a 10% discount rate to net cash, (which is comprised of cash less debt) as of December 31, 2024. NAV is expressed on a per share basis by dividing the total by basic common shares outstanding. NAV per share is not predictive and may not be reflective of current or future market prices for Valeura.

    “Reserves replacement ratio” for 2024 is calculated by dividing the difference in reserves between the NSAI 2024 Report and the NSAI 2023 Report, plus actual 2024 production, by the assets’ total production before royalties for the calendar year 2024.

    “RLI” is calculated by dividing reserves by management’s estimated total production before royalties for 2025.

    “End of field life” is calculated by NSAI as the date at which the monthly net revenue generated by the field is equal to or less than the asset’s operating cost.

    Reserves

    Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of commercially recoverable oil, natural gas, and related substances anticipated to be recoverable from known accumulations, as of a given date, based on the analysis of drilling, geological, geophysical, and engineering data, the use of established technology, and specified economic conditions, which are generally accepted as being reasonable. Reserves are further categorised according to the level of certainty associated with the estimates and may be sub-classified based on development and production status.

    Proved reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves.

    Developed reserves are those reserves that are expected to be recovered from existing wells and installed facilities or, if facilities have not been installed, that would involve a low expenditure (e.g., when compared to the cost of drilling a well) to put the reserves on production.

    Developed producing reserves are those reserves that are expected to be recovered from completion intervals open at the time of the estimate. These reserves may be currently producing or, if shut in, they must have previously been on production, and the date of resumption of production must be known with reasonable certainty.

    Developed non-producing reserves are those reserves that either have not been on production, or have previously been on production, but are shut in, and the date of resumption of production is unknown.

    Undeveloped reserves are those reserves expected to be recovered from known accumulations where a significant expenditure (e.g., when compared to the cost of drilling a well) is required to render them capable of production. They must fully meet the requirements of the reserves classification (proved, probable, possible) to which they are assigned.

    Probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves.

    Possible reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than probable reserves. It is unlikely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the sum of the estimated proved plus probable plus possible reserves. There is a 10% probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or exceed the sum of the estimated proved plus probable plus possible reserves.

    The estimated future net revenues disclosed in this news release do not necessarily represent the fair market value of the reserves associated therewith.

    The estimates of reserves and future net revenue for individual properties may not reflect the same confidence level as estimates of reserves and future net revenue for all properties, due to the effects of aggregation.

    Contingent Resources

    Contingent resources are those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations using established technology or technology under development, but which are not currently considered to be commercially recoverable due to one or more contingencies. Contingencies are conditions that must be satisfied for a portion of contingent resources to be classified as reserves that are: (a) specific to the project being evaluated; and (b) expected to be resolved within a reasonable timeframe.

    Contingent resources are further categorised according to the level of certainty associated with the estimates and may be sub‐classified based on a project maturity and/or characterised by their economic status. There are three classifications of contingent resources: low estimate, best estimate and high estimate. Best estimate is a classification of estimated resources described in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook as the best estimate of the quantity that will be actually recovered; it is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the best estimate. If probabilistic methods are used, there should be at least a 50 percent probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or exceed the best estimate.

    The project maturity subclasses include development pending, development on hold, development unclarified and development not viable. The contingent resources disclosed in this news release are classified as either development unclarified or development not viable.

    Development unclarified is defined as a contingent resource that requires further appraisal to clarify the potential for development and has been assigned a lower chance of development until commercial considerations can be clearly defined. Chance of development is the likelihood that an accumulation will be commercially developed.

    Conversion of the development unclarified resources referred to in this news release is dependent upon (1) the expected timetable for development; (2) the economics of the project; (3) the marketability of the oil and gas production; (4) the availability of infrastructure and technology; (5) the political, regulatory, and environmental conditions; (6) the project maturity and definition; (7) the availability of capital; and, ultimately, (8) the decision of joint venture partners to undertake development.

    The major positive factor relevant to the estimate of the contingent development unclarified resources referred to in this news release is the successful discovery of resources encountered in appraisal and development wells within the existing fields. The major negative factors relevant to the estimate of the contingent development unclarified resources referred to in this news release are: (1) the outstanding requirement for a definitive development plan; (2) current economic conditions do not support the resource development; (3) limited field economic life to develop the resources; and (4) the outstanding requirement for a final investment decision and commitment of all joint venture partners.

    Development not viable is defined as a contingent resource where no further data acquisition or evaluation is currently planned and hence there is a low chance of development, there is usually less than a reasonable chance of economics of development being positive in the foreseeable future. The major negative factors relevant to the estimate of development not viable referred to in this news release are: (1) current economic conditions do not support the resource development; and (2) availability of technical knowledge and technology within the industry to economically support resource development.

    If these contingencies are successfully addressed, some portion of these contingent resources may be reclassified as reserves.

    Of the best estimate 2C contingent resources estimated in the NSAI 2024 Report, on a risked basis: 74% of the estimated volumes are light/medium crude oil, with the remainder being heavy oil; 77% are categorised as Development Unclarified, with the remainder being Development Not Viable. Development Unclarified 2C resources have been assigned an average chance of development for the four fields ranging from 30% to 50% depending on oil type, while 2C Development Not Viable resources have been assigned an average chance of development ranging from 16% to 17%.

    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Light and Medium Crude Oil
    (Development Unclarified)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Unclarified 8,267 7,334 3,108 2,742 38 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Unclarified 14,178 12,538 4,227 3,728 30 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Unclarified 21,072 18,644 5,289 4,673 25 %
    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Heavy Crude Oil
    (Development Unclarified)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Unclarified 7,807 7,358 4,045 3,813 52 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Unclarified 10,641 10,029 5,325 5,018 50 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Unclarified 14,524 13,689 6,560 6,182 45 %
    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Light and Medium Crude Oil
    (Development Not Viable)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Not Viable 11,294 10,502 1,694 1,575 15 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Not Viable 21,539 19,965 3,652 3,319 17 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Not Viable 33,503 30,964 5,363 4,802 16 %
    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Heavy Crude Oil
    (Development Not Viable)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Not Viable 2,069 1,950 310 293 15 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Not Viable 2,091 1,971 341 321 16 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Not Viable 3,003 2,830 815 768 27 %

    The NSAI estimates have been risked, using the chance of development, to account for the possibility that the contingencies are not successfully addressed. Due to the early stage of development for the development unclarified resources, NSAI did not perform an economic analysis of these resources; as such, the economic status of these resources is undetermined and there is uncertainty that any portion of the contingent resources disclosed in this new release will be commercially viable to produce.

    Glossary

    bbl                barrels of oil
    Mbbl              thousand barrels of oil
    MMbbl            million barrels of oil

    Advisory and Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Certain information included in this news release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking information is for the purpose of explaining management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, “propose”, “project”, “target” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

    Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company’s belief that it has added to the ultimate potential of its portfolio; the anticipated economic life of its portfolio; expectations regarding future cash flow; the expectation that ARO on its December 31, 2024 balance sheet will indicate a reduction of approximately 35% versus December 31, 2023 and more than 50% since first assuming operatorship of its assets; business objectives and targets; organic and inorganic growth opportunities; the anticipated end of life for Valeura’s Thailand assets; the potential for adding reserves through the Wassana field redevelopment as well as through ongoing infill development, appraisal drilling, and exploration targets; statements related to the Company’s 2025 production guidance of 23.0 – 25.5 Mbbl/d; estimates of the Company’s RLI; timing for FID readiness on the potential Wassana field redevelopment; management’s anticipation of a higher production profile with longer field life from the Wassana field, should it opt to proceed with the redevelopment; forecast Brent crude oil reference prices; assumption of a single tax filing; estimated costs for the eventual decommissioning of its fields; the intention to disclose a summary of the NSAI 2024 Report to Thailand’s upstream regulator; the anticipated filing date of the Company’s annual information form along with its estimates of reserves and resources; and the timing of the investor and analyst webcast.

    In addition, statements related to “reserves” and “resources” are deemed to be forward-looking information

    as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the resources can

    be discovered and profitably produced in the future.

    Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and assumptions regarding, among other things: political stability of the areas in which the Company is operating; continued safety of operations and ability to proceed in a timely manner; continued operations of and approvals forthcoming from governments and regulators in a manner consistent with past conduct; ability to achieve extensions to licences in Thailand and Türkiye to support attractive development and resource recovery; future drilling activity on the required/expected timelines; the prospectivity of the Company’s lands; the continued favourable pricing and operating netbacks across its business; future production rates and associated operating netbacks and cash flow; decline rates; future sources of funding; future economic conditions; the impact of inflation of future costs; future currency exchange rates; interest rates; the ability to meet drilling deadlines and fulfil commitments under licences and leases; future commodity prices; the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine; the impact of conflicts in the Middle East; royalty rates and taxes; management’s estimate of cumulative tax losses being correct; future capital and other expenditures; the success obtained in drilling new wells and working over existing wellbores; the performance of wells and facilities; the availability of the required capital to funds its exploration, development and other operations, and the ability of the Company to meet its commitments and financial obligations; the ability of the Company to secure adequate processing, transportation, fractionation and storage capacity on acceptable terms; the capacity and reliability of facilities; the application of regulatory requirements respecting abandonment and reclamation; the recoverability of the Company’s reserves and contingent resources; future growth; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the impact of increasing competition; the availability and identification of mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to successfully negotiate and complete any mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to efficiently integrate assets and employees acquired through acquisitions; global energy policies going forward; international trade policies; future debt levels; and the Company’s continued ability to obtain and retain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost efficient manner. In addition, the Company’s work programmes and budgets are in part based upon expected agreement among joint venture partners and associated exploration, development and marketing plans and anticipated costs and sales prices, which are subject to change based on, among other things, the actual results of drilling and related activity, availability of drilling, offshore storage and offloading facilities and other specialised oilfield equipment and service providers, changes in partners’ plans and unexpected delays and changes in market conditions. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information involves significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Exploration, appraisal, and development of oil and natural gas reserves and resources are speculative activities and involve a degree of risk. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company including, but not limited to: the ability of management to execute its business plan or realise anticipated benefits from acquisitions; the risk of disruptions from public health emergencies and/or pandemics; competition for specialised equipment and human resources; the Company’s ability to manage growth; the Company’s ability to manage the costs related to inflation; disruption in supply chains; the risk of currency fluctuations; changes in interest rates, oil and gas prices and netbacks; the risk that the Company’s tax advisors’ and/or auditors’ assessment of the Company’s cumulative tax losses varies significantly from management’s expectations of the same; potential changes in joint venture partner strategies and participation in work programmes; uncertainty regarding the contemplated timelines and costs for work programme execution; the risks of disruption to operations and access to worksites; potential changes in laws and regulations, including international treaties and trade policies; the uncertainty regarding government and other approvals; counterparty risk; the risk that financing may not be available; risks associated with weather delays and natural disasters; and the risk associated with international activity. See the most recent annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the Company for a detailed discussion of the risk factors.

    Certain forward-looking information in this news release may also constitute “financial outlook” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Financial outlook involves statements about Valeura’s prospective financial performance or position and is based on and subject to the assumptions and risk factors described above in respect of forward-looking information generally as well as any other specific assumptions and risk factors in relation to such financial outlook noted in this news release. Such assumptions are based on management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available, and any financial outlook included in this news release is made as of the date hereof and provided for the purpose of helping readers understand Valeura’s current expectations and plans for the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on any financial outlook may not be appropriate for other purposes or in other circumstances and that the risk factors described above or other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from any financial outlook.

    The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction, including where such offer would be unlawful. This news release is not for distribution or release, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States, Ireland, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which its publication or distribution would be unlawful.

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

    This information is provided by Reach, the non-regulatory press release distribution service of RNS, part of the London Stock Exchange. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Notice convening the Annual General Meeting of Siili Solutions Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Notice convening the Annual General Meeting of Siili Solutions Plc

    Siili Solutions Plc Stock Exchange Release 13 February 2025 at 9:10 a.m. (Finnish time)

    The shareholders of Siili Solutions Plc are invited to the Annual General Meeting to be held on Tuesday, 8 April 2025 starting at 2:00 p.m. (Finnish time) at the address Töölönlahdenkatu 2, FI-00100 Helsinki, Finland (event venue Eliel, Sanomatalo). The reception of persons who have registered for the meeting and the distribution of voting tickets will commence at the meeting venue at 1:30 p.m. (Finnish time).

    Shareholders may also exercise their voting rights by voting in advance. Further information on advance voting is presented in section C. 2. of this meeting notice.

    Shareholders can follow the General Meeting via a video stream. Other persons than the Company’s shareholders are also welcome to follow the video stream. Instructions on how to follow the video stream are available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025. It is not possible to pose any other questions than those referred to below in this section, make counterproposals, otherwise speak or vote via the video stream. Following the meeting via the video stream or asking questions as referred to below shall not be considered as participation in the General Meeting or as the exercise of shareholder rights. Persons who follow the video stream may ask questions or make comments to the CEO in writing during the CEO’s review in agenda item 6. through the chat functionality. A recording of the video stream will be available on the Company’s website after the General Meeting, no later than on 22 April 2025.

    A. MATTERS ON THE AGENDA OF THE GENERAL MEETING

    The General Meeting shall consider the following matters:

    1. Opening of the meeting
    1. Calling the meeting to order
    1. Election of the persons to scrutinise the minutes and the persons to supervise the counting of votes
    1. Recording the legality of the meeting
    1. Recording the attendance at the meeting and adoption of the list of votes
    1. Presentation of the financial statements, including the consolidated financial statements, the report of the Board of Directors, the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting for the year 2024
    • Presentation of the CEO’s review.

    The annual report, including the report of the Board of Directors, the consolidated financial statements, the financial statements of the parent company, the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting will be available on the Company’s website at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 at the latest on 14 March 2025.

    1. Adoption of the financial statements, including the consolidated financial statements
    1. Resolution on the use of the profit shown on the balance sheet and the distribution of dividend

    The Board of Directors proposes to the General Meeting that, based on the adopted balance sheet for the financial period 2024, a dividend of EUR 0,18 per share be paid from the Company’s distributable funds, i.e., approximately EUR 1.46 million in total based on the status of the date of this meeting notice, and that the rest of the distributable funds be retained in equity. 

    The dividend shall be paid to shareholders who on the dividend record date 10 April 2025 are registered in the Company’s shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy. The Board of Directors proposes that the dividend be paid on 17 April 2025.

    1. Resolution on the discharge of the members of the Board of Directors and the CEO from liability
    1. Consideration of the Remuneration Report for Governing Bodies

    The remuneration report for governing bodies is available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 at the latest on 14 March 2025.

    1. Resolution on the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors would remain unchanged and be as follows:

    The Chair of the Board of Directors is paid EUR 3,850 per month, the Deputy Chair EUR 2,500 per month, the Chair of the Audit Committee EUR 2,500 per month and other members EUR 2,000 per month. The Chairs of the Board of Directors’ Committees are paid EUR 200 per month for their work on the Committee, in addition to which all Committee members are paid a meeting fee of EUR 300 per meeting. In addition, the members of the Board of Directors receive compensation for travel expenses in line with the Company’s business travel policy.

    1. Resolution on the number of members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that five (5) members be elected to the Board of Directors.

    1. Election of the members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes the re-election of the current members of the Board of Directors for the next term of office Harry Brade, Jesse Maula, Katarina Cantell and Henna Mäkinen. Tero Ojanperä has informed that he does not stand for re-election to the Board of Directors.

    Consequently, the Nomination Board proposes that Sebastian Nyström shall be elected as new member of the Board of Directors.

    Sebastian Nyström, b. 1974, M.Sc., acts currently as S-Group’s Chief Transformation Officer and EVP, Loyalty, IT and Digital Development. Prior to his current role, Nyström has acted e.g. as S-Group’s EVP Strategy & M&A, as well as in other leading roles in Nokia Corporation over the past 20 years.

    The term of office of the members lasts until the end of the next Annual General Meeting. All persons proposed have given their consent to the election.

    Background information on each person proposed for the Board of Directors is available on the website of Siili Solutions Plc at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/en.

    The proposed members Jesse Maula, Henna Mäkinen, Katarina Cantell and Sebastian Nyström are considered independent of the Company and its significant shareholders. Harry Brade is independent of the Company but non-independent of its significant shareholder Lamy Oy.

    In addition, the Shareholders’ Nomination Board recommends to the Board of Directors that it re-elects Harry Brade as its Chair and Jesse Maula as Deputy Chair.

    In the selection of the Board member candidates, the Nomination Board has emphasized relevant experience and competence of the candidates, especially considering the strategic objectives of the company. Further, in its selection process the Nomination Board has considered the diversity of the Board.

    With regard to the selection procedure of the members of the Board of Directors, the Nomination Board recommends that shareholders take a position on the proposal as a whole at the General Meeting. The Nomination Board, in addition to ensuring that individual nominees for membership of the Board of Directors possess the required competences, is also responsible for making sure that the proposed Board of Directors as a whole also has the best possible expertise and experience for the Company and that the composition of the Board of Directors also meets other requirements of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code for listed companies.

    1. Resolution on the remuneration of the auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that the auditor of the Company be paid remuneration in accordance with the auditor’s reasonable invoice approved by the Company.

    1. Election of the auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that audit firm KPMG Oy Ab be re-elected as the Company’s auditor for the following term of office. KPMG Oy Ab has stated that if it is elected as the Company’s auditor, Leenakaisa Winberg, APA, will continue as the principal auditor.

    1. Resolution on the remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurer

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that the sustainability reporting assurer of the Company be paid remuneration in accordance with the sustainability reporting assurer’s reasonable invoice approved by the Company.

    1. Election of the sustainability reporting assurance provider

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that authorised sustainability audit firm KPMG Oy Ab be elected as the Company’s sustainability reporting assurance provider for the following term of office. KPMG Oy Ab has stated that if it is elected as the Company’s sustainability reporting assurance provider, Leenakaisa Winberg, ASA, will continue as the principal sustainability auditor.

    1. Authorisation of the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase and/or on the acceptance as pledge of own shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorises the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase and/or acceptance as pledge of the Company’s own shares under the following terms and conditions:

    Using the Company’s unrestricted equity, a maximum of 814,000 shares may be repurchased and/or accepted as pledge in one or more tranches, which corresponds to approximately 10% of all shares in the Company.

    The shares will be repurchased in trading on Nasdaq Helsinki Oy’s regulated market at a price formed in public trading on the date of repurchase. The Company’s own shares shall be repurchased to be used for carrying out acquisitions or implementing other arrangements related to the Company’s business, for optimising the Company’s capital structure, for implementing the Company’s incentive scheme or otherwise to be transferred further or cancelled.

    Own shares can be repurchased otherwise than in proportion to the shareholdings of the shareholders (directed repurchase). The share purchase will decrease the Company’s distributable unrestricted equity. The Board of Directors resolves on all other terms and conditions for the repurchase and/or acceptance as pledge of the Company’s own shares.

    The authorisation is proposed to remain in force until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, however no later than until 30 June 2026. The authorisation shall revoke earlier unused authorisations to resolve on the repurchase and/or acceptance as pledge of the Company’s own shares.

    1. Authorisation of the Board of Directors to resolve on a share issue and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorise the Board of Directors to resolve on the issuance of shares and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares within the meaning of chapter 10, section 1 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act in one or more tranches either against consideration or free of consideration.

    The number of shares to be issued, including shares received on the basis of the special rights shall not exceed a maximum of 814,000 shares, which corresponds to approximately 10% of all shares in the Company. The Board of Directors may resolve either to issue new shares or to transfer treasury shares held by the Company.

    The authorisation entitles the Board of Directors to resolve on all terms of the share issue and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares, including the right to deviate from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription right (directed issue). The authorisation may be used to strengthen the Company’s balance sheet and financial position, to pay purchase prices for acquisitions, in share-based incentive schemes or for other purposes resolved by the Board of Directors.

    The total maximum number of shares to be issued for the purpose of share-based incentive schemes is 162,800 shares, which corresponds to approximately 2.0% of all the shares in the Company. For the avoidance of doubt, the above maximum number of shares intended for the incentive schemes is included in the maximum number of the issuance authorisation referred to above.

    Based on the authorisation, the Board of Directors is also authorised to resolve on a share issue directed to the Company itself, provided that the number of shares held by the Company after the issue would be a maximum of 10% of all the shares in the Company. This number includes all the Company’s own shares held by the Company and its subsidiaries in the manner provided for in chapter 15, section 11(1) of the Limited Liability Companies Act.

    The authorisation is proposed to remain in force until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, however no later than until 30 June 2026. The authorisation shall revoke earlier authorisations concerning share issues and the issuance other special rights entitling to shares.

    1. Closing the meeting

    B. DOCUMENTS OF THE GENERAL MEETING

    This notice of the General Meeting, which includes all the resolution proposals of the Board of Directors and the Shareholders’ Nomination Board on the agenda of the General Meeting, is available on Siili Solutions Plc’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 as of 13 February 2025. Siili Solutions Plc’s annual report for the year 2024, including the report of the Board of Directors, the consolidated financial statements, the financial statements of the parent company, the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting and the remuneration report for governing bodies will be available on said website at the latest as of 14 March 2025. The resolution proposals and other documents mentioned above will also be made available at the General Meeting.

    The minutes of the General Meeting will be available on the above website at the latest on 22 April 2025.

    C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR MEETING PARTICIPANTS

    1. Shareholders registered in the shareholders’ register

    Shareholders who are registered in the Company’s shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy on 27 March 2025 (the record date of the General Meeting) have the right to participate in the General Meeting. A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s Finnish book-entry account is registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company.

    The registration period for the General Meeting commences on 14 February 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Finnish time). A shareholder who is registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company and wishes to participate in the General Meeting shall register no later than on 1 April 2025 at 4:00 p.m. (Finnish time), by which time the registration must be received. A shareholder can register for the General Meeting by one of the following means:

    a) Via the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025. Electronic registration requires strong identification of the shareholder or their legal representative or proxy representative with a Finnish, Swedish or Danish bank ID or a mobile certificate.

    b) By email to the address agm@innovatics.fi. In the email, registering shareholders must submit the registration and advance voting form available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 or equivalent information.

    The requested information, such as the shareholder’s name, date of birth or business ID and contact information (telephone number and/or email address) as well as the name of the shareholder’s assistant and/or the name, date of birth and contact information (telephone number and/or email address) of proxy representative, if any, must be provided in connection with the registration. The personal data disclosed by the shareholders to Siili Solutions Plc, Innovatics Ltd or Inderes Oyj is only used in connection with the General Meeting and the processing of the necessary registrations related thereto.

    Changes in shareholding after the record date of the General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the General Meeting or the number of votes of the shareholder.

    Upon request, shareholders, their representatives or proxy representatives must be able to prove their identity and/or right of representation at the meeting venue.

    Further information on registration and advance voting is available by telephone during the registration period of the General Meeting by calling Innovatics Ltd at +358 10 2818 909 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Finnish time) on business days.

    1. Advance voting

    A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s personal Finnish book-entry account may vote in advance on certain items on the agenda between 14 February 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Finnish time) and 1 April 2025 at 4:00 p.m. (Finnish time) in the following ways:

    1. Via the service available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025. Shareholders can sign into the advance voting service the same way as to the online registration service referred to above in section C. 1. a) of these instructions.
    1. By email by submitting the advance voting form available on the Company’s website or equivalent information to Innovatics Ltd at agm@innovatics.fi.

    Advance votes must be received by the time the advance voting ends. The submission of votes via the service available on the Company’s website or by email before the end of the registration and advance voting period shall be considered as registration for the General Meeting, provided that it contains the above information required for registration.

    Proposals for resolutions that are subject to advance voting are considered to have been presented unchanged in the General Meeting, and the advance votes are taken into account in a possible vote held at the general meeting venue also in circumstances where an alternative proposal for resolution has been made in the relevant matter. For the advance votes to be considered, the shareholder must be registered in the Company’s shareholder register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy on the record date of the General Meeting. A shareholder who has voted in advance cannot exercise the right to ask questions or demand a vote under the Limited Liability Companies Act unless they participate in the General Meeting at the meeting venue in person or by proxy representative.  

    Instructions for advance voting will be available on the Company’s website at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025.

    With respect to holders of nominee-registered shares, the advance voting is carried out by the account operators. The account operators may vote in advance on behalf of the holders of nominee-registered shares they represent in accordance with the relevant shareholders’ voting instructions during the registration period applicable to holders of nominee-registered shares.

    1. Holder of nominee-registered shares

    Holders of nominee-registered shares have the right to participate in the General Meeting by virtue of shares, based on which they would be entitled to be registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company held by Euroclear Finland Oy on the record date of the General Meeting, 27 March 2025. In addition, the right to participate in the General Meeting requires that the holders of nominee-registered shares be temporarily entered into the shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy based on these shares by 3 April 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Finnish time) at the latest. As regards nominee-registered shares, this constitutes due registration for the General Meeting. Changes in shareholding after the record date of the General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the General Meeting or the number of votes of the shareholder.

    Holders of nominee-registered shares are advised to ask their custodian bank in good time for the necessary instructions regarding temporary registration in the Company’s shareholders’ register, the issuing of proxy documents and voting instructions, registration for and participation in the General Meeting as well as advance voting. The account manager of the custodian bank shall temporarily register a holder of nominee-registered shares who wishes to participate in the Annual General Meeting into the shareholders’ register of the Company at the latest by the time stated above. When necessary, the account manager of the custodian bank shall also arrange advance voting on behalf of the holder of nominee-registered shares before the end of the registration period for holders of nominee-registered shares.

    1. Proxy representative and powers of attorney

    A shareholder may participate in the General Meeting and exercise their rights at the meeting by way of a proxy representation. A shareholder’s proxy representative may also elect to vote in advance as described in section C. 2. of these instructions if they so wish.

    The proxy representative shall produce a dated proxy document, or otherwise in a reliable manner prove that the proxy representative is entitled to represent the shareholder at the General Meeting. If a shareholder participates in the General Meeting through several proxies representing the shareholder with shares held in different book-entry accounts, the shares on the basis of which each proxy representative represents the shareholder shall be identified in connection with the registration.

    A proxy template will be available on the Company’s website at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025.

    Any proxy documents are requested to be submitted preferably as an attachment with the electronic registration or alternatively by mail to Innovatics Oy, General Meeting / Siili Solutions Plc, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki or by email to agm@innovatics.fi before the end of the registration period, by which the proxy documents must be received. In addition to submitting proxy documents, a shareholder or the shareholder’s proxy representative shall register for the General Meeting in the manner described above in this notice.

    As an alternative to a traditional proxy document, a shareholder may authorise a proxy representative by using the Suomi.fi e-authorisation service. The proxy representative is authorised via the Suomi.fi service at www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations (authorisation for ‘Representation at the General Meeting’). When registering for the General Meeting service, the proxy representative must identify themselves by using strong electronic identification, after which the proxy representative can register and vote in advance on behalf of the shareholder the proxy representative represents. Strong electronic identification requires a Finnish, Swedish or Danish bank ID or a mobile certificate. For more information on e-authorisation, please see www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations. The Suomi.fi service can also be used in another way than by authorising a proxy via the authorisation for ‘Representation at the General Meeting’ alternative. For example, a CEO can register the company he/she represents for the General Meeting by using the Suomi.fi service without a separate proxy.

    1. Other instructions/information

    The meeting language is Finnish.

    Pursuant to chapter 5, section 25 of the Limited Liability Companies Act, shareholders who are present at the General Meeting at the meeting venue have the right to request information with respect to the matters to be considered at the meeting.

    On the date of this notice to the General Meeting, Siili Solution Plc has a total of 8,140,263 shares, which represent the same number of votes. On the date of the notice, the Company holds 27,954 treasury shares that do not entitle to participation in the General Meeting according to the Limited Liability Companies Act. 

    Helsinki, 13 February 2025

    SIILI SOLUTIONS PLC

    Board of Directors

    For more information:

    General Counsel, Taru Kovanen

    Phone: +358 (0)40 4176 221, email: taru.kovanen(at)siili.com

    Distribution

    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Principal media
    www.siili.com

    Siili Solutions in brief

    Siili Solutions Plc is a forerunner in AI-powered digital development. Siili is the go-to partner for clients seeking growth, efficiency and competitive advantage through digital transformation. Our main markets are Finland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Siili Solutions Plc’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Stock Exchange. Siili has grown profitably since its founding in 2005. www.siili.com/en

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: The Board of Directors of Siili Solutions Plc established a matching share plan for key employees and resolved on a new performance period for the performance share plan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Board of Directors of Siili Solutions Plc established a matching share plan for key employees and resolved on a new performance period for the performance share plan  

    Siili Solutions Plc Stock Exchange Release 13 February 2025 at 9:15 EET

    Matching Share Plan 2025–2027
                                                                                                                                                   
    The Board of Directors of Siili Solutions Plc has resolved to establish a Matching Share Plan directed to the key employees of the Group. The purpose of the plan is to commit the key employees to the company and to offer them a competitive incentive plan that is based on acquiring and accumulating Siili Solutions shares as well as to encourage them to personally invest in the company’s shares. The plan also aims to align the interests of the shareholders and the key employees to increase the value of the company in the long term.

    The Matching Share Plan 2025–2027 consists of one (1) matching period, which covers the years 2025–2027. The prerequisite for participation in the plan and receiving a reward is that a participant personally has acquired Siili Solutions shares within the limits set by the Board of Directors. Furthermore, payment of the reward is based on the participant’s valid employment or director contract upon reward payment. The potential rewards from the plan will be paid after the end of the matching period.

    The target group of the matching period 2025–2027 consists of approximately 30 key employees, including the CEO and members of the Management Team. As a reward for their commitment, Siili Solutions grants the participants a gross reward of two (2) matching shares for every three (3) shares committed to the plan. The rewards will be paid by the end of May 2028.

    Performance period 2025–2027 of the Performance Share Plan 2023–2027

    The Board of Directors of Siili Solutions Plc established the Performance Share Plan 2023–2027 for the key employees of the company in 2023. The Performance Share Plan 2023–2027 comprises three performance periods, covering the calendar years 2023–2025, 2024–2026 and 2025–2027. The key terms of the Performance Share Plan 2023–2027 were published in a stock exchange release on 24 January 2023.

    The Board of Directors of Siili Solutions has resolved on the target group, the amount of the possible rewards and the performance criteria for the performance period 2025–2027.

    During the performance period 2025–2027, the earning of rewards is based on the following performance criteria:

    • Revenue (EUR) in 2025 (weight 40%);
    • EBITA (EUR) in 2025 (weight 60%);
    • Development of shareholder value (TSR) in 2025–2027.

    The target group of the Performance Share Plan during the performance period 2025–2027 consists of approximately 45 key employees, including the Group’s CEO and Management Team. The rewards will be paid by the end of May 2028.

    General

    The rewards to be paid based on the Matching Share Plan 2025-2027 and Performance Share Plan’s performance period 2025-2027 correspond to the value of approximately 160,000 Siili Solutions Plc shares in maximum total, also including the portion to be paid in cash.

    The rewards of the Matching Share Plan and the Performance Share Plan will be paid partly in Siili Solutions Plc shares and partly in cash. The cash proportions of the rewards are intended to cover taxes and social security contributions arising from the rewards to the participants. In general, no reward is paid if the participant’s employment or director contract terminates during the performance period or the matching period.

    A member of the Management Team is obliged to hold all the net shares paid to them under the new plans until the value of their total shareholding in the company corresponds to half of their annual salary. Such number of shares must be held as long as the membership in the Management Team continues.

    Further information

    CEO Tomi Pienimäki
    Phone: +358 (0)40 834 1399, email: tomi.pienimaki(at)siili.com

    CFO Aleksi Kankainen
    Phone: +358 (0)40 534 2709, email: aleksi.kankainen(at)siili.com

    Distribution

    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd

    Main media

    www.siili.com/en


    Siili Solutions in brief
    Siili Solutions Plc is a forerunner in AI-powered digital development. Siili is the go-to partner for clients seeking growth, efficiency and competitive advantage through digital transformation. Our main markets are Finland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Siili Solutions Plc’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Stock Exchange. Siili has grown profitably since its founding in 2005. www.siili.com/en

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists have come up with a way to fix urban infrastructure defects using artificial intelligence

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Employees Center for Artificial Intelligence of Novosibirsk State University (NSU Center for Information Technologies) received a patent for a utility model of an electronic computing device for detecting defects in urban infrastructure and making decisions on how to eliminate them.

    — In essence, this is a hybrid boxed solution, which is an intelligent system that, using video recording cameras installed in the city and a specially trained neural network, can identify various defects in urban infrastructure and utility lines with great accuracy (non-working light poles or traffic lights, potholes in the roads, etc.), and then, using a logical-semantic block, formulate a solution to eliminate these problems, — said one of the authors of the development, head of the research department of the Sigma project at the NSU Center for Information Technologies, PhD in Physics and Mathematics Andrey Nechesov.

    “Sigma” is a flagship project, a framework for developing digital twins of smart cities, which allows integrating other practical implementations using the API mechanism. As emphasized by the NSU Center for Informatics, the framework is not only an engineering solution, but also a very serious scientific project based on the achievements of the Siberian school of artificial intelligence, headed by academicians of the Russian Academy of Sciences Yu. L. Ershov and S. S. Goncharov.

    The success of ChatGPT and DeepSeek and other large language models (LLM) has generated a lot of interest in this area. LLM capabilities are constantly growing, and today they are already solving a number of important problems. Of course, this is a huge success, but there is a downside to the models themselves – the black box problem, the hallucination problem, the audit problem, deepfakes, and so on. Therefore, in vital areas, these intelligent systems should be used with caution or under the control of more reliable systems, say, based on logic, which would partially or completely check the work of the LLM. This is the approach taken by the participants of the Sigma project.

    — By combining the vast experience of my colleague and co-author of the patent Andrey Andreev in inventing and managing large industrial enterprises, as well as my experience in mathematics, blockchain technologies, smart contracts and building trusted intelligent systems, we outlined a plan for formalizing and implementing key aspects in building a framework and simultaneously patenting them, — noted Andrey Nechesov.

    The first stage of the plan was an electronic computing device for detecting defects in urban infrastructure; work is currently underway on several more useful models and inventions. As a result, a whole line of solutions will be formed, which will then be integrated into the Sigma framework and can be used to optimize monitoring and management of the state of the urban environment.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing’s Mentougou to open AI tech park this year

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Construction began Wednesday on the main facility of Zhongguancun (Western Beijing) Artificial Intelligence Technology Park. The park, set to open in the second half this year, is projected to generate an annual output of 10 billion yuan ($1.49 billion).
    Located in Mentougou district, the park spans 800,000 square meters, with its first phase project covering 310,000 square meters. Workers have finished the exterior walls of the park’s first phase, a 3.9 billion yuan project, and are now focusing on interior renovations. The park, designed with a sunken courtyard and winding waterways, aims to host more than 200 AI companies.
    Mentougou district, formerly a major coal mining area in western Beijing, ended its “millennium-long coal mining history” in 2019. AI has since emerged as the district’s leading industry, alongside ultra-high-definition digital audio-visual and cardiovascular medical devices.
    The park, a key project in Beijing’s “two zones” initiative, aims to advance the city’s AI industry. It will develop an ecosystem centered on computing power, data and AI models while focusing on seven sectors: intelligent manufacturing, smart healthcare, AI-driven audio-visual technology, intelligent education, smart cultural tourism, robotics and intelligent transportation. By attracting industry leaders, the park is expected to drive innovation and accelerate the integration of AI across various sectors.
    In addition to financial and technological support, the park will feature specialized industrial facilities, including three factory buildings designed for inspection, testing and small-scale production.
    Zhongguancun Development Group and Mentougou district have established a 1 billion yuan AI industry fund to attract investment while fostering innovation and accelerating industry expansion.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. – Operational Update on the Stimulation Campaign

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.
    (“Falcon”, “Group”)

    Operational Update on the Stimulation Campaign

    13 February 2025 – Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. (TSXV: FO, AIM: FOG) provides the following update on the stimulation campaign for the Shenandoah S2-2H ST1 (“SS-2H ST1”) and Shenandoah South 4H (“SS-4H”) wells in the Beetaloo Sub-basin, Northern Territory, Australia with Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited’s (“Falcon Australia”) joint venture partner, Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited (“Operator”).

    SS-2H ST1

    • As previously announced stimulation operations were successfully completed over 35 stages across the 1,671-metre (5,483-feet) horizontal section of the Amungee Member B-shale with Liberty Energy (NYSE: LBRT) stimulation equipment.
    • The SS-2H ST1 well is being prepared for the commencement of initial flow back and extended production testing.
    • Targeting announcement of 30 day initial production (“IP30”) flow rates in April 2025.

    SS-4H

    • Commenced stimulation operations in January 2025.
    • The Operator took proactive and precautionary steps to pause completion operations due to the detection of stress in a casing connection.
    • Reinforcement activities are planned to be conducted in Q1 2025, aiming for stimulation activities to recommence in Q2 2025, as soon as the IP30 flow test is completed at SS-2H ST1.
    • The deferred stimulation program should provide an opportunity to incorporate lessons from the SS-2H ST1 campaign.
    • Targeting announcement of IP30 flow rates in mid-2025.

    Working Capital

    • Falcon Australia has received a A$4.7 million (~US$3 million) research and development tax offset in cash.
    • The Group’s current cash balance is US$8.2 million.

    Philip O’Quigley, CEO of Falcon commented:
    We continue to be extremely encouraged about the potential of the current stimulation program based on strong gas shows and other data observed whilst drilling, together with the completion of a successful stimulation program on SS-2H ST1 well. We look forward to updating the market on the IP30 flow test results from both wells as soon as they become available.”
                                                    

    Ends.
    CONTACT DETAILS:

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.          +353 1 676 8702
    Philip O’Quigley, CEO +353 87 814 7042
    Anne Flynn, CFO +353 1 676 9162
     
    Cavendish Capital Markets Limited (NOMAD & Broker)
    Neil McDonald / Adam Rae +44 131 220 9771

    This announcement has been reviewed by Dr. Gábor Bada, Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd’s Technical Advisor. Dr. Bada obtained his geology degree at the Eötvös L. University in Budapest, Hungary and his PhD at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He is a member of AAPG.

    About Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is an international oil & gas company engaged in the exploration and development of unconventional oil and gas assets, with the current portfolio focused in Australia. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is incorporated in British Columbia, Canada and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited is a c. 98% subsidiary of Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    For further information on Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. Please visit www.falconoilandgas.com

    About Beetaloo Joint Venture (EP 76, 98 and 117)

    Company Interest
    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 22.5%
    Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 77.5%
    Total 100.0%

    Shenandoah South Pilot Project -2 Drilling Space Units – 46,080 acres1

    Company Interest
    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 5.0%
    Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 95.0%
    Total 100.0%

    1Subject to the completion of the SS2H ST1 and SS4H wells on the Shenandoah South pad 2.

    About Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited
    Tamboran (B1) Pty Limited (“Tamboran B1”) is the 100% holder of Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited, with Tamboran B1 being a 50:50 joint venture between Tamboran Resources Corporation and Daly Waters Energy, LP.

    Tamboran Resources Corporation, is a natural gas company listed on the NYSE (TBN) and ASX (TBN). Tamboran is focused on playing a constructive role in the global energy transition towards a lower carbon future, by developing the significant low CO2 gas resource within the Beetaloo Basin through cutting-edge drilling and completion design technology as well as management’s experience in successfully commercialising unconventional shale in North America.

    Bryan Sheffield of Daly Waters Energy, LP is a highly successful investor and has made significant returns in the US unconventional energy sector in the past. He was Founder of Parsley Energy Inc. (“PE”), an independent unconventional oil and gas producer in the Permian Basin, Texas and previously served as its Chairman and CEO. PE was acquired for over US$7 billion by Pioneer Natural Resources Company.

    Advisory regarding forward-looking statements
    Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “projects”, “dependent”, “consider” “potential”, “scheduled”, “forecast”, “outlook”, “budget”, “hope”, “suggest”, “support” “planned”, “approximately”, “potential” or the negative of those terms or similar words suggesting future outcomes. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, details on the completion of the stimulation, preparation for initial flow back and targeting an IP30 flow rate of April 2025 for SS-2H ST1; steps taken to pause operations, planned reinforcement activities in Q1 2025, aiming for recommencement of activities in Q2 2025, opportunity to incorporate lessons from the SS-2H ST1 campaign and targeting IP30 flow rates in mid-2025 for SS-4H.

    This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. The risks, assumptions and other factors that could influence actual results include risks associated with fluctuations in market prices for shale gas; risks related to the exploration, development and production of shale gas reserves; general economic, market and business conditions; substantial capital requirements; uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of reserves and resources; extent of, and cost of compliance with, government laws and regulations and the effect of changes in such laws and regulations; the need to obtain regulatory approvals before development commences; environmental risks and hazards and the cost of compliance with environmental regulations; aboriginal claims; inherent risks and hazards with operations such as mechanical or pipe failure, cratering and other dangerous conditions; potential cost overruns, drilling wells is speculative, often involving significant costs that may be more than estimated and may not result in any discoveries; variations in foreign exchange rates; competition for capital, equipment, new leases, pipeline capacity and skilled personnel; the failure of the holder of licenses, leases and permits to meet requirements of such; changes in royalty regimes; failure to accurately estimate abandonment and reclamation costs; inaccurate estimates and assumptions by management and their joint venture partners; effectiveness of internal controls; the potential lack of available drilling equipment; failure to obtain or keep key personnel; title deficiencies; geo-political risks; and risk of litigation.

    Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive and that these factors and risks are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Falcon assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Falcon. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in Falcon’s filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedarplus.com, including under “Risk Factors” in the Annual Information Form.

    Any references in this news release to initial production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons; however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter and are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or ultimate recovery. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for Falcon. Such rates are based on field estimates and may be based on limited data available at this time.

    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: Siili Solutions Plc, Financial statements bulletin, 1 January–31 December 2024 (unaudited)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Siili Solutions Plc, Financial statements bulletin, 1 January–31 December 2024 (unaudited)

    YEAR 2024 FOR SIILI: Profitability affected by declined revenue, successful launch of the new data and AI focused strategy 

    Siili Solutions Plc Financial statements bulletin 13 February 2025 at 9:00 am (EET)

    In 2024 we clarified our new strategy and successfully launched its implementation. We focused on strengthening our competitiveness and securing profitability in a continuously challenging market situation. However, the challenging market situation affected negatively on Siili’s revenue and growth both domestically and internationally.

    July-December 2024

    • Siili published its new strategy in August
    • Siili signed an agreement to purchase majority stake of the Finnish Integrations Group Oy
    • Siili appointed Maria Niiniharju as Siili’s VP, Private Business and member of Siili’s management team
    • Revenue for the second half of the year was EUR 52,713 (57,414) thousand, representing decline of 8.2% year on year
    • Adjusted EBITA for the second half of the year was EUR 2,100 (3,732) thousand, which corresponds to 4.0% (6.5%) of revenue

    January-December 2024

    • We focused on streamlining our organization and creation of our new strategy
    • We strengthened data and AI expertise through training and recruitment
    • We achieved 10th place in the Young Professional A raction Index survey by Academic Work
    • Full-year revenue amounted EUR 111,899 (122,702) thousand, representing decline of 8.8% year on year
    • Adjusted EBITA was EUR 5,409 (8,742) thousand, which corresponds to 4.8% (7.1%) of revenue
      H2/2024 H2/2023 2024 2023 Q4/2024 Q4/2023
    Revenue, EUR 1,000 52,713 57,414 111,899 122,702 28,589 30,365
    Revenue growth, % -8.2% -3.4% -8.8% 3.7% -5.9% -6.7%
    Organic revenue growth, % -8.2% -5.5% -8.8% 0.1% -5.9% -6.7%
    Share of international revenue, % 30.2% 27.7% 29.0% 26.7% 28.8% 25.8%
    Adjusted EBITA, EUR 1,000 2,100 3,732 5,409 8,742 1,403 2,471
    Adjusted EBITA, % of revenue 4.0% 6.5% 4.8% 7.1% 4.9% 8.1%
    EBITA, EUR 1,000 2,058 3,399 4,752 8,409 1,361 2,138
    EBIT, EUR 1,000 1,482 2,763 3,592 6,909 1,075 1,844
    Earnings per share, EUR 0.20 0.18 0.43 0.61 0.18 0.14
    Number of employees at the end of the period 942 1,007 942 1,007 942 1,007
    Average number of employees during the period 954 1,034 975 1,026 944 1,030
    Total full-time employees and subcontractors (FTE)
    at the end of the period
    1,033 1,091 1,033 1,091 1,033 1,091

    Outlook for 2025 and financial goals for 2025-2028

    Revenue for 2025 is expected to be EUR 108-130 million and adjusted EBITA EUR 4.7-7.7 million.

    On 26 November 2024, the company announced the financial goals for the years 2025–2028 as follows:

    • Annual revenue growth of 20 percent, of which organic growth accounts for about half.
    • Adjusted EBITA 12 percent of revenue.
    • The aim is to keep the ratio of net debt-to-EBITDA below two.
    • The aim is to pay a dividend corresponding to 30–70 percent of net profit annually.

    CEO TOMI PIENIMÄKI:

    2024 was another challenging year from a market perspective, both for Siili and the entire IT service sector. During the year, we focused on crystallising our strategy and creating a foundation for stronger competitiveness and profitability.

    The market situation affected both Siili’s revenue and the rate of growth both domestically and internationally. Full-year revenue amounted to approximately EUR 112 million, representing a decline of 9% year on year. The share of international operations in the Group’s revenue continued to increase and rose from the previous year’s level of 27% to 29% in 2024.

    The slowdown in growth also weighed on profitability. Adjusted EBITA for the year was EUR 5.4 million, which corresponds to about 5% of revenue. This year, we aim to improve Siili’s profitability by focusing on operational efficiency and growth with focus on the Data and AI business.

    Despite the challenges of the operating environment, last year was, however, successful for Siili in many ways. During the first half of the year, we focused on designing our new strategy and streamlining the organisation. We also launched a three-level training programme in artificial intelligence for our consultants and continued to strengthen the data and AI expertise of the Siili team through both training and recruitment throughout the year.

    Our new strategy has been well received

    In the new strategy published in August, we placed data and artificial intelligence at the core of the strategy. Our objective is to be a pioneer in the AI transition as a developer of generative AI solutions and as an AI partner that reinforces its customers’ competitiveness.

    We have now three strategic priorities that strengthen our position as a leader in leveraging AI:

    • Significant growth in Data and AI business
    • Pioneer in AI-powered digital development
    • Community of top talent

    Our updated strategy and our promise “Impact driven, AI powered” have been well received in the markets. During the year, we were selected as a partner for several AI and data projects in line with our strategy. Towards the end of the year, we had many successful openings consistent with the strategy in projects dealing with, for example, AI strategies, training, and implementation. We will continue to focus on expanding our business with strategic customers and building long-standing partnerships.

    We focus on improving our profitability

    We continue to improve our operational efficiency. We will focus in particular on capacity and utilization management, cost efficiency, offer development and pricing optimization. Improving profitability is progressing according to plan in stages. We have made a concrete action plan to improve our efficiency and profitability and we will implement it with determination and monitor its progress.

    Last year, we also started to develop our operating models towards more data-driven decision-making and better forecasting. In addition, we are strongly investing in the implementation of a new management model that increases efficiency, recruitments that support the strategy and optimization of subcontracting. We strive to seek profitable growth in growth areas in line with the strategy, while firmly protecting profitability in more challenging market segments.

    We are strengthening our community of top talent

    At the beginning of November, we strengthened the data and AI expertise of the management team when Maria Niiniharju took up the position as the leader of Siili’s Private Business and became a new member of Siili’s management team. In accordance with our strategy, we also expanded our competence through recruitment of data and AI experts, who we have now 43% more compared to previous year. Towards the end of the year, we strengthened our integration expertise by signing an agreement to purchase a majority stake in Integrations Group Oy. With Integrations Group, we will be a stronger partner for our customers in various demanding AI and data integration projects.

    We aim to be the best community for digital development professionals, and we continued to develop our culture and leadership further last year. Our efforts to develop Siili’s community were recognized in autumn when Siili achieved 10th place in the Young Professional Attraction Index survey by Academic Work.

    In 2025, we will celebrate Siili’s 20th anniversary. With two decades of innovation and growth under our belt, this is a good time to continue Siili’s journey by focusing on the implementation of the strategy and the improvement of profitability during the year. Although we cannot see immediate signs of an improvement in market conditions, our successes in 2024 have proven the performance of our strategy. I want to extend my thanks to the entire Siili team and our customers for the past year. I am looking forward to the opportunity to build new and innovative solutions at the cutting edge of the AI transition.

    RISKS AND UNCERTAINTY FACTORS

    Siili is exposed to various risk factors related to its operational activities and business environment. The realisation of risks may have an unfavourable effect on Siili’s business, financial position or company value. The most significant risks related to Siili’s operations are described below, along with other known risks that may become significant in the future. In addition, there are risks that Siili is not necessarily aware of and which may become significant.

    • The loss of one or more key clients, a considerable decrease in purchases, financial difficulties experienced by clients or a change in a client’s strategy with regard to the procurement of IT services could have a negative effect on the company.
    • Failure to achieve recruitment goals in terms of both quality and quantity, and failure to match supply to customer demand in a timely manner.
    • Probability and adverse effects of the realisation of the aforementioned risks are more likely in an uncertain economic environment.
    • Failure in pricing, planning, implementation and improving cost efficiency of customer projects.
    • Loss of the contribution of key personnel or deterioration of the employer’s reputation.
    • Realisation of information security risks, for example, as a result of data breach and/or human error by an employee.

    General negative or weakened economic development and the resulting uncertainty in the clients’ operating environment. The general economic cycle and changes in the clients’ operating environment can have negative effects through slowing down, postponing or cancelling decision-making on IT investments.

    Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has not had and is not expected have a direct impact on Siili’s business. However, the general uncertainty and inflation in 2024 continued to affect in particular our clients’ investment decisions, thereby also weighing on Siili’s business. Slow recovery of the economy is expected to continue to affect Siili’s business and growth opportunities also in the current financial year. According to management observations and estimates, the impacts of the market environment in the financial year 2024 were moderate, and they are expected to reduce in 2025. We prepare for these effects by taking care of customer satisfaction and cost efficiency.

    EVENTS AFTER THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR

    Acquisition of Integrations Group Oy

    On 18 November 2024, Siili Solutions Plc announced it had signed an agreement to purchase a stake of 51% of the shares in the Finnish company Integrations Group Oy. The transaction in Integrations Group Oy shares was completed on 2 January 2025. Siili is committed to purchasing the remaining 49% of shares in Integrations Group Oy over the coming years in parts as detailed in the shareholders’ agreement; hence, Integrations Group Oy is consolidated 100% in the Siili Group as of 2 January 2025.

    Integrations Group Oy is a company specialising in integration implementations and services, based in Espoo and Tampere. The company’s unaudited revenue for the financial year 2024 was EUR 2.2 million, and its operating profit amounted to EUR 0.3 million. The company has 13 employees. Integrations Group Oy will continue to operate as a stand-alone company under its own brand.

    The acquisition of the majority stake in Integrations Group executes on Siili’s strategic objective to expand its business in the growing data and generative AI market.

    The acquisition does not have a material effect on the Siili Group’s revenue, adjusted EBITA or balance sheet values. The company will prepare an acquisition cost calculation under IFRS 3 during the first year-half.

    DIVIDEND PROPOSAL

    In line with the dividend policy approved by its Board of Directors, Siili seeks to distribute 30–70% of its profit for the period to shareholders. In addition, an additional profit distribution can be made.

    On 31 December 2024, the distributable assets of the parent company of Siili Solutions Plc amounted to EUR 35,291,522.61, including the profit for the period EUR 1,629,162.50. The Board of Directors proposes to the Annual General Meeting 2025 that a dividend of EUR 0.18 per share be paid for the financial year 2024. According to the proposal, a total dividend of EUR 1,460,215.62 would be paid. The proposed dividend represents approximately 42% of the Group’s profit for the financial year.

    No significant changes have taken place in Siili’s financial position since the end of the financial year. The company has a good level of liquidity, and the Board believes that the proposed dividend will not pose a risk to liquidity.

    FINANCIAL CALENDAR FOR 2025

    Siili will hold a results announcement event for analysts, portfolio managers and the media on 13 February 2025 at 1:00 p.m. The presentation materials will be published on the company website after the event.

    • The Annual Report 2024 will be published in electronic format on the company website on 14 March 2025.
    • The Annual General Meeting will be held on 8 April 2025.
    • The business review for 1 January–31 March 2025 will be published on 22 April 2025.
    • The half-year report for 1 January–30 June 2025 will be published on 12 August 2025.
    • The business review for 1 January–30 September 2025 will be published on 21 October 2025.

    Helsinki, 13 February 2025

    Board of Directors, Siili Solutions Plc

    FURTHER INFORMATION:

    CEO Tomi Pienimäki

    tel. +358 40 834 1399

    CFO Aleksi Kankainen

    tel. +358 40 534 2709

    SIILI SOLUTIONS IN BRIEF:

    Siili Solutions Plc is a unique combination of a digital agency and a technology powerhouse. We believe in human-centricity in everything we deliver. Siili is the go-to partner for clients seeking growth, efficiency and competitive advantage through digital transformation. Siili has offices in Finland, Germany, Poland, Hungary, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Austria and USA. Siili Solutions Plc shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. Siili has grown profitably since it was founded in 2005. / www.siili.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Breaking the Ice, Breaking up Ground: III MSB Marines conduct joint training event with Army 11th Engineer Battalion Soldiers

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Early on the morning of February 6, 2025, the Marines of III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III MEF Information Group joined Soldiers from 63rd Clearance Company, 11th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division at the frozen grounds of Dagmar North Training Area, South Korea to conduct a joint training event.

    This joint training event took place during III MSB’s preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation, which is scheduled to take place this week. The MCCRE is designed to test Marines and Sailors within the unit on how well they can perform their mission essential skills, and the preparation for it has spurred III MSB leaders to continuously seek and initiate opportunities to maximize the success of the MCCRE. Sgt. Wyatt Miller, platoon sergeant of III MSB’s engineer platoon, contacted the Army’s engineer unit to request heavy equipment operations at Dagmar North prior to the evaluation.

    “There will be times where there’s interservice training, interservice operations or interservice communication, where something’s got to get done and it can only get done with help from both sides,” explained Sgt. Miller.

    Miller noted that this was his first experience engaging in joint training during his time at III MSB, and that it certainly reinforced the idea that continuous training in a joint environment fosters better teamwork. “I think that’s a very valuable experience from both sides,” Miller added.

    In the days leading up to the event, internal coordination and reconnaissance of the designated site for the event would help to set the stage and establish lateral limits for both units involved. Marines and Soldiers could be seen shoulder-to-shoulder in the freezing cold, planning and crafting a training event to fulfill both unit’s missions while increasing their interoperability.

    Soldiers from 4th platoon were tasked with creating berms as fixed fighting positions for the Marines. At the same time, the Marines were tasked with supporting the Soldiers by providing security in the area and conducting patrol maneuvers, a form of training that provided insight on how to better prepare for their upcoming MCCRE. Following a convoy insert that preceded the dawn, the servicemembers began to set in and take their positions.

    “This is exactly what we are here to do,” stated 2nd Lt. Melissa Wences, 4th Platoon leader of the Army engineers, emphasizing the value of the training event. “Getting my platoon of horizontal construction engineers out here and guiding them onto the construction of fighting positions in different terrain and difficult weather conditions is a reality check of where they are and what it’s going to be like for future exercises.”

    As a support asset to the unit, the company’s primary focus is to dig vehicle positions and individual fighting positions to strengthen security around the area of operation. In light of the unit’s upcoming schedule, Wences saw this as an ideal opportunity to further her Soldiers’ training.

    “This will lead into our battalion’s field training exercise next month,” said Wences. “Most of the Soldiers currently in the platoon are new to the Korean Peninsula, and it’s necessary for them to be familiarized with overcoming the challenges of a different terrain.”

    The intent of this training was for the Marines of III MSB to establish a dynamic security posture, effecting a protective perimeter around a site designated for the Army’s excavation operations. The soldiers would operate and guide heavy construction equipment for vertical and horizontal engineer operations. Joint training events such as this one serve to hone the interoperability and integration capabilities of the joint force.

    III MSB provides and coordinates direct combat service support, security, and administrative services to III MEF, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, and III MEF Information Group Command Elements to enable III MEF to win in competition and conflict.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Senate Budget Committee, Republicans Block Murray Amendments for Bipartisan Approach to Spending, Affirming Congressional Spending Authority, Reversing NIH Cuts, Transparency & Accountability for DOGE, and More

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Remarks at Senate Budget Resolution Markup: Blasts Roadmap to Devastating Cuts, Calls for Budget Hearing with Musk – MORE HERE
    Washington, D.C. — Today, at the Senate Budget Committee’s mark up of Senate Republicans’ budget resolution, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Budget Committee, put forward six amendments to steer Republicans toward a bipartisan approach to spending, affirm Congress’ power of the purse, reverse massive arbitrary cuts to NIH, deliver transparency into the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and more. Republicans unanimously opposed every amendment Murray and other Democrats offered.
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 01: Senator Murray first proposed an amendment to address defense and nondefense needs equally—tackling national security concerns and challenges at the border alongside priorities like supporting our veterans, biomedical research, child care, agriculture, and more—noting that such investments should be a part of ongoing bipartisan topline negotiations between appropriators. Rather than the $342 billion Republicans are proposing in mandatory funding through the partisan reconciliation process, Murray’s amendment would have provided $171 billion in discretionary funding for defense and $171 in discretionary funding for non-defense needs.  Unlike the partisan approach taken by Republicans, the funding under the Murray amendment would be available to address a range of critical needs, including but not limited to national security and the border.
    “Democrats share many of your concerns about investing in our national security, providing more resources to address the challenges at the border, and making sure we counter China,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to equally divide the proposed spending toward defense and non-defense priorities. “While also wanting to make sure we address critical areas like supporting veterans, agriculture, wildfires, disaster response, biomedical research, child care, and much more. So, the approach in my amendment is to say we should work together on a bipartisan basis – and really this should be part of the topline conversations we are having now as we hurtle toward the March 14th funding deadline. I want to make clear Democrats remain at the table on the FY 2025 topline – but it is getting pretty lonely for us when we see Republicans assume a trillion dollars for this year alone in unilateral DOGE cuts, remain quiet as Russ Vought and the administration continues to unlawfully impound funds, and now propose to jam through $342 billion in funding for your priorities on a partisan basis—while I am trying to negotiate in good faith a bipartisan, four-corner topline deal for fiscal year 2025. I would urge my Republican colleagues to get serious and keep your eye on the ball regarding the funding lapse on March 14th, not to mention the sequester cuts at the end of April.”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 06: Senator Murray pressed her colleagues to pass an amendment to stand up to the Trump Administration and affirm Congress’ power of the purse which Republicans all unanimously opposed.
    “This is not a partisan issue—it is about upholding our laws and Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to affirm Congressional spending authority. “The Constitution grants Congress—not the President—the power of the purse. This has been affirmed time and again—by: The Supreme Court, Congress, The Government Accountability Office, and others. And yet, Trump, Elon Musk, and Russ Vought have been holding up huge chunks of funding that Congress passed—often on a bipartisan basis. When Presidents ignore our spending laws and the power of the purse our Constitution gives Congress—not the president—it doesn’t just block funding for the American people, it erodes the trust necessary for bipartisan negotiations in Congress. As I have emphasized, Members of Congress—on both sides—must know a deal is a deal. This amendment is about protecting the integrity of our democratic process—our most fundamental checks and balances. Every Senator—Republican or Democrat—should support this amendment to preserve Congress’s authority and maintain the trust necessary for effective governance.”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 17: Senator Murray also offered an amendment to reverse the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate cut to biomedical research and the lifesaving work supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at research institutions across the country—which no Republican spoke in opposition to during debate, but every Republican voted in opposition.  
    “On Friday night the Trump Administration announced it was implementing a policy to arbitrarily cut National Institutes of Health funding that supports biomedical research at institutions across the country,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to reverse Trump’s proposed policy on indirect costs. “In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding that is essential to conducting research – such as operating and maintaining labs and research facilities. That is in clear violation of our annual appropriations bills, which have included an explicit prohibition on NIH implementing a policy exactly like this since fiscal year 2018. Fortunately, a court has temporarily paused the policy, but let’s be clear, if the Trump administration were to be successful in gutting NIH funding in this way, it would be absolutely catastrophic for lifesaving research patients and families are counting on, including lifesaving cancer research at Fred Hutch in my home state of Washington, and at so many other institutions in Red and Blue states nationwide.”
    “Research would come to a halt, sick kids would not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials would shut down abruptly,” Murray continued. “Our commitment to supporting basic research infrastructure—which this policy does—is what helped make the American research enterprise the best in the world.  This is funding that helps produce medical breakthroughs and change patients’ lives and ensure that the U.S. continues to be the global leader in biomedical research. NIH is an important economic driver in just about every single one of our states—creating jobs and spurring innovation.”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 05: Senator Murray pushed for passage of an amendment to have the Senate request the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review, audit and report back within 90 days on DOGE, including the appropriateness of the authorities and finances under which it is operating; internal controls and compliance with appropriations, data privacy, and other laws; the hiring, vetting, and security clearance of its employees, special government employees, and volunteers; appropriateness of actions taken to cancel contracts, reassign or otherwise change the status of federal employees; and any other areas deemed appropriate by the Comptroller General. Every Republican voted no.
    “My amendment requests the Government Accountability Office to review, audit and report back within 90 days on the so called Department of Government Efficiency so that we can understand its role, authorities, and impacts,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to provide some level of transparency into DOGE. “Mr. Chairman, your Mark assumes $1 trillion in savings over the remaining seven to eight months in 2025. That is an astronomical amount of savings to achieve in a very short amount of time and with absolutely no detail provided to us. Those savings would appear largely to come from DOGE, which is operating throughout the government without any authorization from Congress, without any normal disclosure of people, processes, or conflicts, and really with no accountability whatsoever. Whether you support some actions of DOGE or not, you should support transparency and accountability to Congress and the American public. Elon Musk and DOGE have already tried to shut down USAID, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and we are told it is now targeting the Department of Education, with the President saying he wants Musk over at the Pentagon next. None of this is normal – not DOGE, the involvement of an unelected billionaire, the vast influence it has, or the actions they have taken to date with little or no input from Congress.”
    “Let’s be clear—no one voted to let an unelected billionaire decide what bills the federal government would or wouldn’t pay or whether our elementary schools and hospitals get funding, but President Trump is giving Elon the keys to the Treasury,” continued Senator Murray. “And, again, the lack of transparency into its people, processes, and potential conflicts should concern every one of us. So, my hope is with this amendment we can agree to some oversight of DOGE and ask Congress’s independent, nonpartisan watchdog, the GAO, to review DOGE and report back to us within 90 days. And if you are not supportive of this—I have to ask, what are you scared of finding out?”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 15: Murray also put forward an amendment to prevent federal disaster assistance from being included in the highly partisan budget reconciliation process and ensure that federal disaster relief funds go to the communities that need them when they need them.
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 14: Murray also pressed to pass an amendment, modeled off her Veteran Families Health Services Act, to provide additional funding for improving the reproductive assistance provided by the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their spouses or partners—particularly for IVF. Every Republican also opposed these amendments, notwithstanding their intention to significantly increase the size of our military through their reconciliation plan, which will result in even more servicemembers and veterans needing reproductive assistance.
    Prior to consideration of amendments, Senator Murray underscored in her opening comments that the resolution Senate Republicans have put forth is a roadmap to devastating cuts to programs families count on every day—from Medicaid to SNAP to veterans benefits—so that Republicans can later pass more tax breaks for the ultra-rich. Senator Murray emphasized that right now Congress’ focus should be on addressing the fast-approaching March 14 funding deadline and addressing President Trump and Elon Musk’s sweeping, illegal funding freeze—not a partisan measure to gut investments in working people. She also called for Elon Musk to come before the Committee to discuss his already in-motion efforts to decimate programs people count on.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Airing climate justice in Costa Rica on World Radio Day

    Source: United Nations 2

    By Carla Garcia

    Climate and Environment

    Quality radio remains ever universal, popular and more reliable in an era of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media, including in Costa Rica, where unique programming raises awareness and promotes public participation on climate decision making in Latin America, the theme of this year’s World Radio Day, marked annually on 13 February.

    In a crucial year for climate action which, in accordance with the Paris Agreement, seeks to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, World Radio Day is dedicated in 2025 to highlighting the power of broadcasting to bring climate change issues to prominence.

    That’s the goal of Climate Radio Route.

    Radio democratises

    Radio is considered the most reliable medium, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which supports radio stations, like Climate Radio Route, in their journalistic coverage of this year’s theme.

    Adrián Martínez, director of La Ruta del Clima – the Climate Route – a Costa Rican non-governmental organization (NGO) promoting public participation in climate and environmental decision-making that has been an observer, advocating at the UN climate summits since 2014.

    “Radio in all its versions, whether digital or transmitted by antennas, is super important because it democratizes,” he told UN News . “Radio traditionally reaches places and communities where there is no Internet. It is also very generational. People interact with the radio day by day because it is ephemeral.”

    Climate hits the radio waves

    The Climate Route studies and exposes impacts “on the human rights of people in vulnerable communities in Latin America, especially in Central America, who have to deal with the adverse effects of climate change, for which they have very little responsibility but which is transforming their territories and ways of life”, Mr. Martínez explained.

    With the aim of disseminating and raising awareness in society about these issues, in 2015 the organization created the Ruta del Clima Radio – the Climate Radio Route.

    The programme was broadcast in the first years by a radio station of the University of Costa Rica and then by digital media through podcasts.

    Communities can make their voices heard

    “Communication that can have a massive reach has become very expensive and elitist,” Mr. Martínez said. “However, digital or traditional radio opens up that opportunity for communities, social organizations and movements to create their window and make their voices heard.”

    UNESCO argues that beyond popularising environmental concepts, by disseminating information independent of economic, ideological and political powers, radio can condition listeners’ perception of climate change, and the importance given to the issue.

    As such, radio can also contribute to shaping the public agenda and influencing policies in this regard.

    © La Ruta del Clima

    A training workshop on damage and loss in the community of Cahuita in Costa Rica.

    Connecting climate change to people

    The Climate Radio Route has focused a lot on connecting the issue of climate change with people, not only at the national level in Costa Rica, but throughout the Latin American region.

    The programme discusses issues most relevant in climate governance and amplifies the work and experiences and opinions of colleagues,  activists and experts from this region and others on climate issues.

    “Citizens can have information and criteria beyond what is in the official media and thus can have a more comprehensive vision and promote the effective participation of our communities in climate decisions,” Mr. Martínez said.

    Climate Route Radio productions are self-contained and include climate summits, community interviews and online interviews with people around the world in English or Spanish.

    In line with the SDGs

    The Climate Route underlines the importance of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those that refer to: climate action; peace, justice and solid institutions; and partnerships to achieve the goals.

    Mr. Martínez points out that the NGO has worked with some UN agencies, such as the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

    “We collaborate, for example, with the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), on climate change issues, and we are always discussing with them and with the rapporteurs of the United Nations system or the OAS [Organization of American States] on environmental issues,” he said.

    Presidency of Costa Rica

    The impact of Storm Nate was catastrophic for Costa Rica, affecting 117 national roads and 113,000 hectares of agricultural production, damaging 423 bridges and causing more than $380 million in losses. (file)

    Climate justice claims

    Costa Rica is a country that for years has stood out for the ecological and climate awareness of its population and government, and the Climate Radio Route could have something to do with that awareness.

    “We know that we have a very specialised community of listeners and have helped to interact with this technical group from various countries: politicians, activists or members of governments or national delegations,” Mr. Martínez said, adding that it has also helped to talk about issues of human rights, gender and community perspective as well as make constructive criticism.

    This interaction, he adds, has made it possible to strengthen demands for climate justice.

    © La Ruta del Clima

    Adrián Martínez, director of La Ruta del Clima, facilitates a workshop on climate reparations at COP 29.

    A ‘very special’ radio

    “We are not a very large radio station, but perhaps very special in its message,” Mr. Martínez said. “I think that has opened doors for us to make our perspective known and create a link with this community that is sometimes difficult to engage.”

    In this vein, he underlined the relevance of radio.

    “It allows us to access communication in an oral way, which is sometimes very necessary to be able to have understanding,” he said. “The way we communicate orally is very different from the way we do in writing and sometimes we cannot communicate in the same way.”

    Radio is essential to be able to generate that dialogue of ideas, emotions and feelings that can enhance decision making for peace and for the construction of a better relationship with the environment.

    “I think we must continue to explore not only the use of radio, but also other media that connect us and understand the need to work together,” he said. “That is the important thing about the media: to be able to understand others and then to be able to take common action.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI: Sp Mortgage Bank Plc: Annual Financial Report 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc’s IFRS financial statements and Board of Directors’ report for 2024 have been published. 

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc 
    Stock Exchange Release 
    13th of February 2025 at 6.55 am (CET +1) 

    The materials are attached to this release and available in English and Finnish at www.saastopankki.fi

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc 

    Further information: 

    Tero Kangas
    Managing Director  
    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc 
    tero.kangas@saastopankki.fi 
    +358 50 420 1022 

    Sp Mortgage Bank Plc is part of the Savings Banks Group and the Savings Banks Amalgamation. The role of Sp Mortgage Bank is, together with Central Bank of Savings Banks Finland Plc, to be responsible for obtaining funding for the Savings Banks Group from money and capital markets. Sp Mortgage Bank is responsible for the Savings Banks Group’s mortgage-secured funding by issuing covered bonds. 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Widespread egg rationing sweeps US stores

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo taken with a mobile phone on Feb. 7, 2025 shows a price tag on a shelf for eggs at a local supermarket in El Monte, Los Angeles County, California, the United States. [Photo/Xinhua]

    More U.S. grocery chains are implementing egg purchase limits as bird flu outbreaks continue to disrupt supplies, with California shoppers particularly feeling the squeeze through restricted purchases and early morning queues.

    At a Costco store in San Jose, California, the warehouse has been limiting purchases to three cartons per customer since Saturday, according to a store employee named Pauline. By late morning on Tuesday, only 15 cartons remained — all higher-priced organic brown and green eggs, with no white eggs available. The store has posted the sales limit sign at the entrance, effective Tuesday.

    “You need to come early to make sure you can buy eggs,” Marcie Lopez, a customer at the store, told Xinhua, noting that eggs are getting more expensive and harder to buy this year.

    “No eggs, no eggs, no eggs,” a clerk at another Costco store in Azusa, California, told the people waiting in line just after the location opened on Monday morning.

    “It’s unbelievable, we came so early in the morning, but we still couldn’t buy eggs,” a customer, who gave her name as Luna, told Xinhua.

    The rising prices and empty shelves are fueling consumer anxiety. Social media platforms like TikTok are flooded with videos of shoppers rushing to grab eggs, sometimes emptying freshly stocked shelves in minutes. One viral video from a Costco store showed eggs being snapped up in less than 10 minutes, with customers grabbing eggs by the hundreds.

    Nationwide, retailers are scrambling to manage dwindling supplies. Trader Joe’s has implemented a one-dozen limit per customer per day across all of its over 600 U.S. locations.

    “Due to ongoing issues with the supply of eggs, we kindly ask you to limit your purchase to 1 dozen of any kind,” wrote a Trader Joe’s store in Monrovia in a sign for customers shopping for eggs, noting that “we hope to have ample supply soon. Until then, we appreciate your understanding.”

    Whole Foods has capped purchases at three cartons per shopper, while Kroger stores are limiting customers to two dozen eggs per trip.

    Other major chains have followed suit. Sprouts has implemented a four-dozen limit per visit, Giant Eagle is asking customers to limit purchases to three cartons per transaction, and Market Basket stores in Massachusetts are restricting egg purchases to two cartons per family.

    In California, a Safeway supermarket in Santa Clara has been limiting customers to two dozen per visit for the past month. An employee, who called himself John, explained to Xinhua that the store doesn’t receive daily egg deliveries, instead stocking twice daily — at 7 a.m. and noon — to spread out availability. Even with these measures, eggs typically sell out by late afternoon.

    The restrictions come as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to impact egg-laying flocks nationwide. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Eggs Markets Overview report published on Friday, more than 150 million poultry birds have been killed in attempts to combat the H5N1 virus, causing egg prices to soar and supplies to dwindle.

    The national trading price for graded, loose, white large shell eggs has risen to 7.34 U.S. dollars per dozen, while the California wholesale price for cage-free large shell eggs has reached 9.11 dollars per dozen. The report expects the supply situation to remain tight, with little chance for near-term improvement.

    As a result, many grocers are limiting promotional activities and implementing purchase restrictions to stretch existing supplies.

    “Due to recent market conditions, egg prices have increased. We apologize for any inconvenience,” wrote an Aldi store in Monrovia in a sign inside the shop, adding that “due to supply challenges, eggs are limit 2 per customer.”

    Some retailers are maintaining high prices to dampen demand, and egg product manufacturers have increased their demand, leading to sharp price advances in the spot market.

    USDA predicts egg prices will increase about 20 percent in 2025, far outpacing the projected 2.2 percent increase in overall food prices. The prices in December 2024 were already 36.8 percent higher than the previous year, according to USDA data.

    Saloni Vastani, an associate professor of marketing at Emory University, told USA Today that the shortage is being exacerbated by consumer behavior.

    “Egg prices are going up because of the avian flu, but that’s driving people to buy more eggs than they usually do because they’re anticipating higher prices and reduced grocery store supply,” Vastani explained.

    The impact has extended to restaurants as well. Waffle House, which serves approximately 272 million eggs annually, recently implemented a 50-cent per egg surcharge across its roughly 2,100 U.S. locations.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Senator Moran, Hoeven on Moving Food for Peace to USDA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Senators Moran, Hoeven, and Representatives Mann, Crawford, Newhouse, and Rouzer, as well as House Agriculture Chairman Thompson in introducing legislation to move the Food for Peace program from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
    “Food for Peace was started in Kansas by farmers who wanted to feed people in need across the world. Now, over 70 years later, the mission continues. The USDA understands farmers and food distribution better than any other agency in town, and moving the jurisdiction of Food for Peace under the USDA ensures that American grain is going to the people who need it most,” said Senator Marshall. “As President Trump and congressional leadership continue to find ways to curb wasteful spending and promote our nations’ goods and commodities, this is a step in the right direction toward a brighter future for America, its farmers, and the original mission of Food for Peace.”
    “The move of this program to USDA strengthens our ability to get food to those who need it most while supporting US sorghum farmers,” said Amy France, National Sorghum Producers Chairwoman. “NSP supports this shift, as it ensures the long-term success of Food for Peace and the efforts to deliver American-grown sorghum to food-insecure communities worldwide.”
    “Kansas farmers take great pride in Food for Peace and the impact the program and American commodities have had on feeding the world,” said Chris Tanner, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers President. “Moving Food for Peace to USDA would continue to provide the needed relief for people in need.”
    “Kansas-grown sorghum is a critical crop for food security in America and abroad,” said Adam York, CEO of Kansas Sorghum Producers Association. “Throughout changes in administrations, sorghum farmers have worked to have a seat at the table in international food programs housed across many agencies to ensure America’s farmers can contribute to our national security. We recommend policy makers continue prioritizing American agriculture as a solution to challenges in domestic and foreign policy.”
    “Our nation’s millers take great pride in feeding those facing famine emergencies around the world,” said Kim Z Cooper, Vice President of Government Affairs for the North American Millers’ Association. “Our flagship emergency food aid program Food for Peace not only helps those abroad, but is a critical component of Buy American and America First policies.”
    Senator Marshall has championed reforms to the Food for Peace program in the past, co-leading the America’s Farmers Feed the World Act, which sought to restore the Food for Peace program to its original intent by using U.S.-grown commodities to fight global hunger rather than spending American taxpayers’ dollars on foreign goods with limited oversight and accountability safeguards.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: China establishes over 30,000 smart factories

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Aug. 14, 2024 shows the new energy vehicles assembly line of a smart factory of Seres Group in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China has built over 30,000 basic-level smart factories as part of a nationwide push to accelerate industrial digitalization and intelligent upgrading, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).

    The initiative, under the smart factory gradient cultivation action, has also seen the creation of 1,200 advanced-level and 230 excellence-level smart factories. This achievement highlights the significant progress that has been made in reshaping the country’s manufacturing landscape, according to the ministry.

    The 230 excellence-level factories, distributed across all 31 provincial regions in China and covering over 80 percent of manufacturing sectors, have carried out nearly 2,000 advanced scenarios, including smart warehousing, AI-powered quality inspections, and digital research and development, said MIIT.

    On average, these factories are 28.4 percent shorter in product development cycles, 22.3 percent higher in production efficiency, 50.2 percent lower in defect rates and 20.4 percent lower in carbon emissions, said the ministry.

    MIIT, alongside five other state agencies, jointly launched a smart factory gradient cultivation action last year and classified smart factories into four tiers based on technological maturity and integration depth, including the basic-level, the advanced-level, the excellence-level and the pioneer-level.

    For instance, basic-level smart factories are required to develop foundational capabilities in digitization and networking. This involves deploying the necessary smart manufacturing equipment, industrial software, and systems centered around typical scenarios of smart manufacturing. By doing so, they can achieve real-time data collection, automation of key production processes, enhance the informatization of production and operational management, and utilize intelligence exploration in certain aspects.

    Moving forward, MIIT will expand excellence-level smart factory promotion and prepare to launch pioneer-level cultivation, aiming to further promote the expansion, deeper integration, and elevated evolution of intelligent manufacturing, it said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: “He’s a Danger,” King Warns in Floor Speech Against RFK Jr. Nomination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) tonight took to the floor of the Senate to share his concern over President Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to serve as the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). In the speech, Senator King began his remarks by outlining the roles of Congress and the Presidency as America’s Founders envisioned: to make laws and to execute laws, respectively.  He then turned to the HHS candidate, speaking to Kennedy’s lack of experience and qualifications needed to run a large-scale health organization, and pointed out Kennedy’s long held public opinions as hostile toward the mission of the agency. He also warned of Kennedy’s dangerous skepticism toward proven, life-saving vaccines, sharing a childhood memory of a classmate who had polio.

    “Mr. President, I’d like to begin my remarks this afternoon by talking a little bit about the Constitution. I spent some time last week talking about the Constitution and our failure to observe that the Constitutional, fundamental structure of the division of power between the Congress and the Executive is being violated and the Congress is allowing it to happen. Another provision of the Constitution is the provision in Article I about advise and consent. It’s a fundamental check and balance built into the Constitution by the framers for a reason. It wasn’t a throw-away line or a few sentences that were put in because they wanted to fill the paragraph out. Again, it’s part of the structure that was designed to protect us from tyranny. And the structure involved the division of power, the separation of power because the framers knew that if all power was concentrated in a single individual or single institution, that institution or that individual would inevitably abuse our people. That’s human nature. That’s 1,000 years of human nature. All power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. So, the advise and consent provision was in the Constitution for a reason. It was in there for a reason, in order to provide a check on the executive and the people who were going to be put in charge of running the administration. 

    “By the way, I want to stop for a minute and focus on the word administration and the word executive, because it really goes to the discussion we’re having in this country right now about how our government is supposed to work. The executive comes from the word execute, and the word execute means put into action. It doesn’t mean initiate the action. It means put it into action. The same for the term administration. There’s a reason we call it the administration. They are to administer the laws. In fact, the obligation on the president in Article II is to see that the laws are faithfully executed. And it does not give the president the power to ignore laws or to decide which laws he or she thinks are okay, to ignore the responsibility and constitutional authority of the congress to define spending. It does not give the president that power. Although, the fellow we approved for Office of Management and Budget last week thinks he has that power. Or this President or any president has that power. That’s absolutely antithetical to the Constitution, as established by the framers. So, administration means administer the laws, executive means execute the laws, not make them. We make the laws here and the administration is to faithfully execute those laws. 

    “Now, let’s talk about advise and consent. Advise and consent means we have a responsibility — a Constitutional responsibility to consider each of the president’s nominees for these important jobs. This isn’t something that we may do or occasionally do. This is a fundamental part of our job. We take an oath when we come here to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. I think it’s interesting — they knew in 1787 that there was a potential for domestic enemies to the Constitution. So we have an obligation to take advise and consent seriously. 

    “Now, I’m a former governor, as is the presiding officer. And as a former executive, I believe the executive should have the ability to choose the team that they want, to choose their advisors. To choose the people they will work with, with some limitations. In other words, I start with the premise of the person elected should perhaps get the benefit of the doubt is a little too strong, but I start with the premise that they were elected and they should be able to choose the team that they are going to be working with. However, I think there are two qualifications. This has been my stated position on this since I entered the Senate. Benefit of the doubt to the executive, however, the nominee must be manifestly qualified and not hostile to the mission of the agency to which they’ve had been appointed. Two criteria that for me give life to the idea of advise and consent. 

    “Okay, let’s talk about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. He, unfortunately, checks both of the boxes as to being disqualified. Number one, he’s not remotely qualified to run an organization. He has no experience running anything remotely like the scope and scale of the Department of Health and Human Services. No executive experience in that sense. So that’s number one. Is he qualified? No. He’s grossly unqualified. But the second box is he hostile to the mission of the agency? And if the mission of the agency, HHS, is to protect the health of the American people, I would argue he is manifestly hostile to that mission. There’s been a lot of discussion here today and I think it’s interesting. I haven’t heard too many people come up on the floor and support this nominee and tell us why he should be approved because, you know what, Mr. President? If this were a secret ballot, this man wouldn’t get 20 votes. Everybody in this body knows he’s not qualified. Everybody in this body knows he has no business anywhere near this position. But here we are. We’re going to take a vote. Unfortunately, it will probably be on a party-line basis. 

    “But let me focus on just one little piece. On January 29, barely a week ago, before the Senate Finance Committee, here’s what Mr. Kennedy said. Quote, “news reports have claimed that I’m antivaccine or anti-industry. I am neither. I am pro-safety. All of my kids are vaccinated.” I bet that came as news to all of the folks he’s been leading astray over the last 25-30 years. I believe vaccines have a critical role in health care. I am reminded of Saul on the road to Damascus. A miraculous conversion. A bright light was shown and suddenly the scales fell from his eyes in his confirmation hearing. Okay, let’s go back a little over a year, July 6, 2023, this is a quote, a direct quote, “there is no vaccine that is safe and effective.” He later said, on the same podcast, ‘vaccines are inherently unsafe.’ Mr. President, this man shouldn’t be confirmed because he told the committee and the Senate something diametrically opposed to the position he’s taken the last 30 years, all of his adult life. 

    “Maya Angelou said, “If somebody tells you who they are, you should believe them.” And he’s told us repeatedly. And he has acted on his vaccine skepticism. This wasn’t something that was rumbling around in his head. He’s traveled the world. He’s written articles, gone on podcasts, gone on TV and he’s discouraged people from being vaccinated. And now he has this miraculous conversion 10 days ago. ‘All my kids are vaccinated. I believe vaccines have a critical role in health care.’ The same thing during COVID. He said, ‘it is criminal medical malpractice to give a child one of these vaccines.’ Wow, criminal malpractice. And of course it’s been discussed. He said I do believe that autism does come from vaccines. July of 2023 there was one study in England — I think it was in 1998 — that showed that — purported to show a tenuous convection between vaccines and — connection between vaccines and autism. I’m reasonably confident that one of the authors recanted. It was withdrawn and it’s been debunked over and over and over again, but this man has been peddling this lie for 20 years, and who knows how many parents have fallen for that on the one hand who knows how many children have paid the price. Just to talk about vaccines, at one point during the pandemic, there was a survey — July of 2021 — remember, that was the height of it — they surveyed 50 hospitals in 17 states. 94% of the patients hospitalized in July of 2021 were unvaccinated. What does that tell you? Vaccinations worked. And people who were unvaccinated were at enormously higher risk. 94% of the people were unvaccinated.

    “In addition to the vaccination issue, this guy — this man doesn’t respect the FDA, the agency that was put in place to protect our health, to regulate us, to be sure that we’re getting safe medications, to deal with some of the awful problems of the potential of harmful medications literally getting into America’s bloodstream. In December of 2024, barely a couple months ago, he said he would fire officials at the FDA. And in October 2024 he said on X, ‘FDA’s war on public health is about to end. If you work for the FDA and are part of this corrupt work, two messages for you: prepare your records and pack your bags.’ He didn’t say a certain office in the FDA or a certain part of the FDA or maybe there was one provision, a part that he didn’t think was helpful. He said, if you work for the FDA, that’s everybody, preserve your records and pack your bags. 

    “This man is not only unqualified, he’s anti-qualified. He’s a danger. We have physicians in the Senate — I believe that the Hippocratic oath, do no harm, should apply to Senate votes. You should not be voting for somebody who you know is going to do harm to the public health. So this is really a kind of surreal debate because everybody in this chamber knows this man should not be Secretary of Health and Human Services. 

    “Now, I want to end with a personal story. One of the few advantages of being older is that you have a long memory. And in 1952 I was entering the third grade at Macarthur School in Alexander, Virginia. In my class was a kid named Butch. And he was horribly twisted into a wheelchair. I don’t think I’d ever seen a wheelchair when I was going into the third grade. He was there, and I’m not even going to say how many years later, but I can close my eyes and see Butch in that chair. Polio was what he had. He was in pain daily. He could barely make himself understood. His arms were crossed. His legs were bent grotesquely in the wheelchair. And three years later the Salk Vaccine began what turned out to be the elimination of Polio. Where would we be as a country if this man had been the head at that time it was HEW and somehow put a stop to this vaccine, which I believe he has said even the Polio vaccine should be rescinded, which has saved millions of lives around the world. Where would we be? I can’t escape the memory of that boy in that wheelchair. I can’t forget the memory of my parents not letting me go to the public swimming pool because of the fear of Polio. Not being able to go out in the summer and play because of the fear of Polio that stalked the land. The former Republican leader was a victim of Polio. Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt was a victim of Polio. It was the vaccine. And, Mr. President, I hope this place comes to its senses and rejects this surreal nomination. It would be probably be hard to find somebody less qualified to serve in this position. I believe that it will lead to damage to our country, to our health, to our children, and I urge my colleagues to vote no. If you vote yes, you’ll regret it. Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor.”

    Senator King has been continuously sounding the alarm on President Donald Trump’s existential threat to the Constitution: he declared that the proposal to halt all federal grant and loan disbursement was illegal and a direct assault on the Constitution. More recently, he joined 36 Senators in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, sharing the detrimental effects of  the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He also joined fellow Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) colleagues in writing a letter to the White House about the risks to national security by allowing unvetted Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staff and representatives to access classified and sensitive government materials. Last week, he spoke on the Senate floor to share his growing concerns over the Trump Administration’s largely unconstitutional and unprecedented overreach; in the speech he cited the Founding Fathers to add historical perspective to the decision facing the Senate, including the importance of the separation of powers.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Outlines How Trump’s Attack on USAID is Hurting National Security and All Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    February 12, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)—outlined how President Donald Trump’s illegal foreign assistance freeze and dismantling of USAID undermines our national security, empowers our adversaries and jeopardizes Americans’ economic security. Her discussion with the panel highlighted how USAID programs abroad help improve the global competitiveness of American products. Video of Duckworth’s full remarks can be found on the Senator’s YouTube.
    “Donald Trump promised he’d lower costs and keep Americans safe, but his attack on USAID is doing the opposite: hurting our national security and empowering our adversaries,” Duckworth said. “The only people winning here are our adversaries and those who thrive on chaos—whether that be the PRC, Russia or Elon Musk. Meanwhile, Trump’s destructive actions are causing real harm to people’s lives and their livelihoods.”
    Duckworth has repeatedly called out President Donald Trump and his Administration’s illegal attack on USAID. Last week, Duckworth led her fellow SFRC Democratic colleagues in demanding immediate answers from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on how much it will cost American taxpayers to pull USAID workers off the job overseas and relocate them back to the United States. Duckworth also spoke out against Trump’s ongoing illegal power grabs—including the shuttering of USAID—on the Senate floor as part of Senate Democrats’ 30-hour protest opposing Project 2025 architect Russell Vought’s nomination to serve as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). As a result of Trump’s ongoing lawlessness, Duckworth also announced that she will be a blanket-no on all remaining top-level cabinet nominees.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOEA Minister Confers Medal on Japan’s Former Vice Minister for International Affairs at METI

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    On January 17, 2025, Minister Kuo conferred the Medal of Economic Contribution upon Mr. Hirohide Hirai, the former Vice Minister for International Affairs at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). The honor was in recognition of his pivotal role in strengthening semiconductor cooperation and industrial investment between Taiwan and Japan.

    During Mr. Hirai’s tenure at METI, he played a crucial role in facilitating TSMC’s investment in Japan, particularly in garnering government backing for TSMC’s Kumamoto fab, and thus establishing a landmark in Taiwan-Japan economic collaboration. Minister Kuo noted that this investment has catalyzed increasing demand for and cooperation on semiconductors, AI, and digital transformation, and further strengthened bilateral industrial ties.

    Mr. Hirai, currently serving as an executive director at Hitachi, Ltd., shared his endeavors between 2020 and 2021 in securing Japanese government subsidies and support to attract TSMC’s investment. He also expressed support for Minister Kuo’s proposal to strengthen bilateral cooperation on semiconductor supply chain in Kyushu.

    The award acknowledges Mr. Hirai’s contributions to strengthening industrial partnerships between Taiwan and Japan, thereby paving the way for deeper cooperation in next-generation technologies and global supply chain resilience.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Euronet Reports Record Results Across All Financial Metrics For The Fourth Quarter And Full Year 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEAWOOD, Kan., Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Euronet (or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: EEFT), a global leader in payments processing and cross-border transactions, today announced fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results. 

    Euronet reports the following consolidated results for the fourth quarter 2024 compared with the same period of 2023:

    • Revenues of $1,047.3 million, a 9% increase from $957.7 million (10% increase on a constant currency1 basis).
    • Operating income of $122.7 million, a 26% increase from $97.4 million (27% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted operating income2 of $122.7 million, a 23% increase from $99.9 million (24% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA3 of $165.8 million, a 12% increase from $147.6 million (13% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Net income attributable to Euronet of $45.2 million, or $0.98 diluted earnings per share, compared with $69.3 million, or $1.43 diluted earnings per share.
    • Adjusted earnings per share4 of $2.08, a 10% increase from $1.88.
    • Euronet’s cash and cash equivalents were $1,278.8 million and ATM cash was $643.8 million, totaling $1,922.6 million as of December 31, 2024, and availability under its revolving credit facilities was approximately $1,335 million.

    Euronet reports the following consolidated results for the full year 2024 compared with the same period of 2023:

    • Revenues of $3,989.8 million, an 8% increase from $3,688.0 million (9% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $503.2 million, a 16% increase from $432.6 million (18% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted operating income of $502.8 million, a 16% increase from $432.1 million (18% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $678.5 million, a 10% increase from $618.7 million (11% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Net income attributable to Euronet of $306.0 million, or $6.45 diluted earnings per share, compared with $279.7 million, or $5.50 diluted earnings per share.
    • Adjusted earnings per share of $8.61, a 15% increase from $7.46.

    See the reconciliation of non-GAAP items in the attached financial schedules.

    “I am pleased we delivered 15% growth in Adjusted EPS for the full year — at the top end of our range, driven by strong performance in all three segments. As we entered 2024, we told shareholders that we expected our Adjusted EPS to grow between 10% and 15%, and we would be driving to go through the range. Throughout the year our results increasingly demonstrated that it was likely we would perform at the upper end of that range. Now with these very good fourth quarter results, you can see we performed at the top of the range and even ahead of our historical 10- and 20-year CAGR rates. I would like to also point out that our 2024 adjusted EPS of $8.61 was adversely impacted by significant increases in interest and tax expense, but also benefited from share repurchases. With interest, taxes and share repurchases netting each other, you can see that the 15% increase in adjusted EPS was driven by the 16% increase in operating income made possible by strong revenue growth, scale and cost management. For the fourth quarter we delivered record adjusted EPS of $2.08, a 10% year-over-year increase as well as double-digit growth in operating income and adjusted EBITDA,” stated Michael J. Brown, Euronet’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “EFT delivered double-digit growth across all metrics driven by international travel, growth in merchant acquiring business, fee increase opportunities, and expansion into new markets. Money Transfer produced strong fourth quarter results across all metrics including a 33% growth in digital transactions. In epay, our core business delivered strong results from continued digital branded payments and mobile growth.”

    Adjusted operating income and adjusted EBITDA were adjusted for non-cash purchase accounting adjustments in the EFT Segment during the fourth quarter and full-year of 2023 and the full year of 2024 and a non-cash gain in the full year 2023.

    Taking into consideration recent trends in the business and the global economy, the Company anticipates its 2025 adjusted EPS will grow 12% to 16% year-over-year, consistent with its 10 and 20 year compounded annualized growth rates. This outlook does not include any changes that may develop in foreign exchange rates, interest rates or other unforeseen factors.

    Segment and Other Results

    The EFT Processing Segment reports the following results for the fourth quarter 2024 compared with the same period or date in 2023:

    • Revenues of $265.6 million, a 12% increase from $237.9 million (13% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $37.3 million, a 46% increase from $25.5 million (48% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted operating income of $37.3 million, a 33% increase from $28.0 million (35% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $61.7 million, an 18% increase from $52.2 million (19% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Transactions of 3,203 million, a 35% increase from 2,369 million.
    • Total of 55,248 installed ATMs as of December 31, 2024, a 5% increase from 52,652 at December 31, 2023. Operated 49,945 active ATMs as of December 31, 2024, a 6% increase from 47,303 as of December 31, 2023.

    The EFT Processing Segment reports the following results for the full year 2024 compared with the same period in 2023:

    • Revenues of $1,161.2 million, a 10% increase from $1,058.3 million (10% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $256.0 million, a 24% increase from $206.3 million (25% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted operating income of $255.6 million, a 24% increase from $205.8 million (25% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $353.5 million, an 18% increase from $300.4 million (19% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Transactions of 11,424 million, a 35% increase from 8,473 million.

    Revenue, operating income, and adjusted EBITDA growth for both the fourth quarter and full year 2024 was driven by continued growth in transactions in nearly all markets, new market expansion, fee increase opportunities, cost management and growth in the merchant acquiring business with adjusted EBITDA doubling in the last two years.

    The EFT Segment’s total installed ATMs at December 31, 2024 grew 5% over December 31, 2023 ATMs due to the net addition of 1,729 Euronet-owned ATMs, 773 new outsourcing ATMs and the addition of 94 low-margin ATMs in India. The difference between installed and active ATMs relates to ATMs that have been seasonally deactivated. 

    The epay Segment reports the following results for the fourth quarter 2024 compared with the same period or date in 2023:

    • Revenues of $342.2 million, an 8% increase from $316.7 million (10% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $48.0 million, a 10% increase from $43.6 million (12% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $49.9 million, a 10% increase from $45.4 million (12% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Transactions of 1,185 million, a 31% increase from 906 million.
    • POS terminals of approximately 777,000 as of December 31, 2024, a 5% decrease from approximately 821,000.
    • Retailer locations of approximately 362,000 as of December 31, 2024, a 3% increase from approximately 352,000.

    The epay Segment reports the following results for the full year 2024 compared with the same period in 2023:

    • Revenues of $1,150.5 million, a 6% increase from $1,082.4 million (7% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $129.9 million, a 3% increase from $126.2 million (4% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $137.2 million, a 3% increase from $133.1 million (4% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Transactions of 4,374 million, a 15% increase from 3,789 million.

    Fourth quarter and full year 2024 constant currency revenue, operating income and adjusted EBITDA growth was driven by continued expansion of digital branded payment and mobile sales.

    The Money Transfer Segment reports the following results for the fourth quarter 2024 compared with the same period or date in 2023:

    • Revenues of $441.9 million, a 9% increase from $405.1 million (9% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $58.4 million, a 13% increase from $51.9 million (12% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $64.4 million, a 9% increase from $59.3 million (9% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Total transactions of 46.9 million, an 11% increase from 42.4 million.
    • Network locations of approximately 607,000 as of December 31, 2024, a 5% increase from approximately 580,000.

    The Money Transfer Segment reports the following results for the full year 2024 compared with the same period in 2023:

    • Revenues of $1,686.5 million, an 8% increase from $1,555.2 million (9% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Operating income of $201.0 million, an 8% increase from $185.4 million (9% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $227.0 million, a 5% increase from $216.4 million (5% increase on a constant currency basis).
    • Total transactions of 176.9 million, a 9% increase from 161.7 million.

    Fourth quarter constant currency revenue, operating income and adjusted EBITDA growth was the result of 14% growth in U.S.-outbound transactions, 11% growth in international-originated money transfers and 8% growth in xe transactions, partially offset by a 14% decline in the intra-U.S. business. These transaction growth rates include 33% growth in direct-to-consumer digital transactions.

    Full year 2024 constant currency revenue, operating income, and adjusted EBITDA growth was the result of 12% growth in U.S.-outbound transactions, 11% growth in international-originated money transfers and 16% growth in xe transactions, partially offset by a 14% decline in the intra-U.S. business. These transaction growth rates include 28% growth in direct-to-consumer digital transactions.

    Corporate and Other reports $21.0 million of expense for the fourth quarter 2024 compared with $23.6 million for the fourth quarter 2023. For the full year 2024, Corporate and Other reports $83.7 million of expense compared with $85.3 million for the full year 2023. The decrease in corporate expenses for both the fourth quarter and full year 2024 is largely the result of a decrease in long-term compensation expenses based on lower share value. 

    Balance Sheet and Financial Position
    Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents on hand were $1,278.8 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $1,524.1 million as of September 30, 2024. The net decrease in unrestricted cash and cash equivalents during the quarter is mainly due to working capital fluctuations, repayment of short-term borrowings, $50 million in share repurchases, partially offset by cash generated from operations. Total indebtedness was $1,949.8 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $2,278.8 million as of September 30, 2024. The decrease in debt was largely due to repayment of short-term borrowings. Availability under the Company’s revolving credit facility was approximately $1,335 million as of December 31, 2024. The increase in availability of the revolving credit facility was primarily the result of an increase and extension of our credit facility in December 2024 from $1.25 billion to $1.90 billion.

    Non-GAAP Measures
    In addition to the results presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company presents non-GAAP financial measures, such as constant currency financial measures, adjusted operating income, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted earnings per share. These measures should be used in addition to, and not a substitute for, revenues, net income and earnings per share computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP. We believe that these non-GAAP measures provide useful information to investors regarding the Company’s performance and overall results of operations. These non-GAAP measures are also an integral part of the Company’s internal reporting and performance assessment for executives and senior management. The non-GAAP measures used by the Company may not be comparable to similarly titled non-GAAP measures used by other companies. The attached schedules provide a full reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure.

    The Company does not provide a reconciliation of its forward-looking non-GAAP measures to GAAP due to the inherent difficulty in forecasting and quantifying certain amounts that are necessary for GAAP and the related GAAP and non-GAAP reconciliation, including adjustments that would be necessary for foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and other charges reflected in the Company’s reconciliation of historic numbers, the amount of which, based on historical experience, could be significant.

    (1) Constant currency financial measures are computed as if foreign currency exchange rates did not change from the prior period. This information is provided to illustrate the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on the Company’s results when compared to the prior period.

    (2) Adjusted operating income is defined as operating income excluding, to the extent incurred in the period, non-cash gains and non-cash purchase accounting adjustments. Adjusted operating income represents a performance measure and is not intended to represent a liquidity measure.

    (3) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income excluding, to the extent incurred in the period, interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation, amortization, share-based compensation, non-cash gains, non-cash purchase accounting adjustments and other non-operating or non-recurring items that are considered expenses or income under U.S. GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA represents a performance measure and is not intended to represent a liquidity measure.

    (4Adjusted earnings per share is defined as diluted U.S. GAAP earnings per share excluding, to the extent incurred in the period, the tax-effected impacts of: a) foreign currency exchange gains or losses, b) share-based compensation, c) acquired intangible asset amortization, d) non-cash income tax expense, e) non-cash gains and non-cash purchase accounting adjustments, f) other non-operating or non-recurring items and g) dilutive shares relate to the Company’s convertible bonds. Adjusted earnings per share represents a performance measure and is not intended to represent a liquidity measure.

    Conference Call and Slide Presentation
    Euronet Worldwide will host an analyst conference call on February 13, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss these results. The call may also include discussion of Company developments on the Company’s operations, forward-looking information, and other material information about business and financial matters. To listen to the call via telephone please register at Euronet Worldwide Fourth Quarter 2024 Earnings Call. The conference call will also be available via webcast at http://ir.euronetworldwide.com. Participants should register at least five minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the event. A slideshow will be included in the webcast.

    A webcast replay will be available beginning approximately one hour after the event at http://ir.euronetworldwide.com and will remain available for one year.

    About Euronet Worldwide, Inc.
    A global leader in payments processing and cross-border transactions, Euronet moves money in all the ways consumers and businesses depend upon. This includes money transfers, credit/debit processing, ATMs, point-of-sale services, branded payments, currency exchange and more. With products and services in more than 200 countries and territories provided through its own brand and branded business segments, Euronet and its financial technologies and networks make participation in the global economy easier, faster and more secure for everyone.

    Starting in Central Europe in 1994, Euronet now supports an extensive global real-time digital and cash payments network that includes 55,248 installed ATMs, approximately 1,160,000 EFT point-of-sale terminals and a growing portfolio of outsourced debit and credit card services which are under management in 67 countries; card software solutions; a prepaid processing network of approximately 777,000 point-of-sale terminals at approximately 362,000 retailer locations in 64 countries; and a global money transfer network of approximately 607,000 locations serving 197 countries and territories with digital connections to 4.1 billion bank accounts and 3.1 billion digital wallet accounts. Euronet serves clients from its corporate headquarters in Leawood, Kansas, USA, and 67 worldwide offices. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.euronetworldwide.com.

    Statements contained in this news release that concern Euronet’s or its management’s intentions, expectations, or predictions of future performance, are forward-looking statements. Euronet’s actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including: conditions in world financial markets and general economic conditions, including impacts from the COVID-19 or other pandemics; inflation; military conflicts in the Ukraine and the Middle East, and the related economic sanctions; our ability to successfully integrate any acquired operations; economic conditions in specific countries and regions; technological developments affecting the market for our products and services; our ability to successfully introduce new products and services; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; the effects of any breach of our computer systems or those of our customers or vendors, including our financial processing networks or those of other third parties; interruptions in any of our systems or those of our vendors or other third parties; our ability to renew existing contracts at profitable rates; changes in fees payable for transactions performed for cards bearing international logos or over switching networks such as card transactions on ATMs; our ability to comply with increasingly stringent regulatory requirements, including anti-money laundering, anti-terrorism, anti-bribery, consumer and data protection and privacy; changes in laws and regulations affecting our business, including tax and immigration laws and any laws regulating payments, including dynamic currency conversion transactions; changes in our relationships with, or in fees charged by, our business partners; competition; the outcome of claims and other loss contingencies affecting Euronet; the cost of borrowing (including fluctuations in interest rates), availability of credit and terms of and compliance with debt covenants; and renewal of sources of funding as they expire and the availability of replacement funding. These risks and other risks are described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Copies of these filings may be obtained via the SEC’s Edgar website or by contacting the Company. Any forward-looking statements made in this release speak only as of the date of this release. Except as may be required by law, Euronet does not intend to update these forward-looking statements and undertakes no duty to any person to provide any such update under any circumstances. The Company regularly posts important information to the investor relations section of its website. 

     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
     Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
     (in millions)
           
      As of    
      December 31,   As of
      2024   December 31,
      (unaudited)   2023
    ASSETS      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,278.8   $ 1,254.2
    ATM cash 643.8   525.2
    Restricted cash 9.2   15.2
    Settlement assets 1,522.7   1,681.5
    Trade accounts receivable, net 284.9   370.6
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets 297.1   316.0
    Total current assets 4,036.5   4,162.7
           
    Property and equipment, net 329.7   332.1
    Right of use lease asset, net 132.1   142.6
    Goodwill and acquired intangible assets, net 1,048.1   1,015.1
    Other assets, net 288.1   241.9
           
    Total assets $ 5,834.5   $ 5,894.4
           
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY      
    Current liabilities:      
    Settlement obligations $ 1,522.7   $ 1,681.5
    Accounts payable and other current liabilities 841.0   816.9
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities 48.3   50.3
    Short-term debt obligations 814.0   151.9
    Total current liabilities 3,226.0   2,700.6
           
    Debt obligations, net of current portion 1,134.4   1,715.4
    Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion 87.4   95.8
    Capital lease obligations, net of current portion 1.4   2.3
    Deferred income taxes 71.8   47.0
    Other long-term liabilities 84.3   83.6
    Total liabilities 4,605.3   4,644.7
    Equity 1,229.2   1,249.7
           
    Total liabilities and equity $ 5,834.5   $ 5,894.4
                                   
    EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
     Consolidated Statements of Operations
     (unaudited – in millions, except share and per share data)
                           
        Year Ended     Three Months Ended
        December 31,     December 31,
        2024         2023     2024   2023
                           
    Revenues $ 3,989.8       $ 3,688.0     $ 1,047.3       $ 957.7  
                           
    Operating expenses:                      
    Direct operating costs   2,389.3         2,222.8     640.8       596.4  
    Salaries and benefits   650.2         602.9     167.9       158.0  
    Selling, general and administrative   315.3         296.8     83.4       72.4  
    Depreciation and amortization   131.8         132.9     32.5       33.5  
    Total operating expenses   3,486.6         3,255.4     924.6       860.3  
    Operating income   503.2         432.6     122.7       97.4  
                           
    Other income (expense):                      
    Interest income   23.8         15.2     5.7       5.1  
    Interest expense   (80.5 )       (55.6 )   (21.3 )     (16.5 )
    Foreign currency exchange (loss) gain   (19.1 )       8.0     (35.5 )     11.6  
    Other income   21.5         0.2     4.3       0.3  
    Total other (expense) income, net   (54.3 )       (32.2 )   (46.8 )     0.5  
    Income before income taxes   448.9         400.4     75.9       97.9  
                           
    Income tax expense   (142.6 )       (120.9 )   (30.6 )     (28.4 )
                           
    Net income   306.3         279.5     45.3       69.5  
    Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests   (0.3 )       0.2     (0.1 )     (0.2 )
    Net income attributable to Euronet Worldwide, Inc. $ 306.0       $ 279.7     $ 45.2       $ 69.3  
    Add: Interest expense from assumed conversion of convertible notes, net of tax   4.2         4.2       0.9         1.0  
    Net income for diluted earnings per share calculation $ 310.2       $ 283.9     $ 46.1       $ 70.3  
    Earnings per share attributable to Euronet                      
    Worldwide, Inc. stockholders – diluted $ 6.45       $ 5.50     $ 0.98       $ 1.43  
                           
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   48,082,766         51,599,633     47,050,602       49,066,284  

     

     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Reconciliation of Net Income to Operating Income (Expense), Adjusted Operating Income (Expense) and Adjusted EBITDA
     (unaudited – in millions)
                       
      Three months ended December 31, 2024
                       
      EFT Processing   epay   Money Transfer   Corporate Services   Consolidated
                       
    Net income                 $ 45.3  
                       
    Add: Income tax expense                 30.6  
    Add: Total other expense, net                 46.8  
                       
    Operating income (expense) $ 37.3     $ 48.0     $ 58.4     $ (21.0 )     $ 122.7  
                       
    Add: Depreciation and amortization 24.4     1.9     6.0     0.2       32.5  
    Add: Share-based compensation             10.6       10.6  
                       
    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, share-based compensation (Adjusted EBITDA) (1) $ 61.7     $ 49.9     $ 64.4     $ (10.2 )     $ 165.8  
                       
      Three months ended December 31, 2023
                       
      EFT Processing   epay   Money Transfer   Corporate Services   Consolidated
                       
    Net income                 $ 69.5  
                       
    Add: Income tax expense                 28.4  
    Less: Total other income, net                 (0.5 )
                       
    Operating income (expense) $ 25.5     $ 43.6     $ 51.9     $ (23.6   )   $ 97.4  
    Add: non-cash purchase accounting expense adjustment   2.5                           2.5  
    Adjusted operating income (expense) (1)   28.0       43.6       51.9       (23.6   )     99.9  
                       
    Add: Depreciation and amortization 24.2     1.8     7.4     0.1       33.5  
    Add: Share-based compensation             14.2       14.2  
                       
    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, non-cash purchase accounting expense adjustment and share-based compensation (Adjusted EBITDA) (1) $ 52.2     $ 45.4     $ 59.3     $ (9.3   )   $ 147.6  

    (1) Adjusted operating income (expense) and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures that should be considered in addition to, and not a substitute for, net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP. 

     EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Reconciliation of Net Income to Operating Income (Expense), Adjusted Operating Income (Expense) and Adjusted EBITDA
     (unaudited – in millions)
                       
      Twelve months ended December 31, 2024
                       
      EFT Processing   epay   Money Transfer   Corporate Services   Consolidated
                       
    Net income                 $ 306.3  
                       
    Add: Income tax expense                 142.6  
    Add: Total other expense, net                 54.3  
                       
    Operating income (expense) $ 256.0     $ 129.9     $ 201.0     $ (83.7 )   $ 503.2  
                       
    Less: Non-cash purchase accounting income adjustment (0.4 )               (0.4 )
    Adjusted operating income (expense) (1) 255.6     129.9     201.0     (83.7 )   502.8  
                           
    Add: Depreciation and amortization 97.9     7.3     26.0     0.6     131.8  
    Add: Share-based compensation             43.9     43.9  
                       
    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, non-cash purchase accounting income adjustment and share-based compensation (Adjusted EBITDA) (1) $ 353.5     $ 137.2     $ 227.0     $ (39.2 )   $ 678.5  
                       
      Twelve months ended December 31, 2023
                       
      EFT Processing   epay   Money Transfer   Corporate Services   Consolidated
                       
    Net income                 $ 279.5  
                       
    Add: Income tax expense                 120.9  
    Add: Total other expense, net                 32.2  
                       
    Operating income (expense) $ 206.3     $ 126.2     $ 185.4     $ (85.3 )   $ 432.6  
                       
    Add: Non-cash purchase accounting expense adjustment 2.5                 2.5  
    Less: Non-cash gain (3.0 )               (3.0 )
    Adjusted operating income (expense) (1) 205.8     126.2     185.4     (85.3 )   432.1  
                           
    Add: Depreciation and amortization 94.6     6.9     31.0     0.4     132.9  
    Add: Share-based compensation             53.7     53.7  
                       
    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, non-cash purchase accounting expense adjustment, non-cash gain and share-based compensation (Adjusted EBITDA) (1) $ 300.4     $ 133.1     $ 216.4     $ (31.2 )   $ 618.7  

    (1) Adjusted operating income (expense) and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures that should be considered in addition to, and not a substitute for, net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP. 

    EURONET WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Reconciliation of Adjusted Earnings per Share
     (unaudited – in millions, except share and per share data)
                                   
      Year Ended    Three Months Ended
      December 31,   December 31,
        2024         2023       2024         2023  
                                   
    Net income attributable to Euronet Worldwide, Inc. $ 306.0       $ 279.7     $ 45.2       $ 69.3  
                                   
    Foreign currency exchange loss (gain)   19.1         (8.0 )     35.5         (11.6 )
    Intangible asset amortization(1)   21.7         24.4       4.7         5.4  
    Share-based compensation(2)   43.9         53.7       10.6         14.2  
    Non-cash gain(3)           (3.0 )              
    Non-cash purchase accounting (income) expense adjustment(4)   (0.4 )       2.5               2.5  
    Income tax effect of above adjustments(5)   13.2         (3.0 )     3.2         1.2  
    Non-cash investment gain(6)   (20.3 )             (3.5 )        
    Non-cash GAAP tax expense (benefit)(7)   9.9         19.7       (3.1 )       6.4  
                                   
    Adjusted earnings(8) $ 393.1       $ 366.0     $ 92.6       $ 87.4  
                                   
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted(8) $ 8.61       $ 7.46     $ 2.08       $ 1.88  
                                   
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (GAAP)   48,082,766         51,599,633       47,050,602         49,066,284  
    Effect of adjusted EPS dilution of convertible notes   (2,781,818 )       (2,781,818 )     (2,781,818 )       (2,781,818 )
    Effect of unrecognized share-based compensation on diluted shares outstanding   369,573         230,000       295,559         158,030  
    Adjusted diluted weighted average shares outstanding   45,670,521         49,047,815       44,564,343         46,442,496  

    (1) Intangible asset amortization of $4.7 million and $5.4 million are included in depreciation and amortization expense of $32.5 million and $ 33.5 million for both the three months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, in the consolidated statements of operations. Intangible asset amortization of $21.7 million and $24.4 million are included in depreciation and amortization expense of $131.8 million and $132.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, in the consolidated statements of operations. 

    (2) Share-based compensation of $10.6 million and $14.2 million are included in salaries and benefits expense of $167.9 million and $158.0 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, in the consolidated statements of operations. Share-based compensation of $43.9 million and $53.7 million are included in salaries and benefits expense of $650.2 million and $602.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, in the consolidated statements of operations.

    (3) A non-cash gain of $3.0 million is included in operating income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, in the consolidated statements of operations. 

    (4) Non-cash purchase accounting (income)/expense adjustment of respectively ($0.4) million and $2.5 million is included in operating income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 in the consolidated statement of operations. 

    (5) Adjustment is the aggregate U.S. GAAP income tax effect on the preceding adjustments determined by applying the applicable statutory U.S. federal, state and/or foreign income tax rates. 

    (6) Non-cash investment gain of respectively $3.5 million and $20.3 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024 is included in other income in the consolidated statement of operations.

    (7) Adjustment is the non-cash GAAP tax impact recognized on certain items such as the utilization of certain material net deferred tax assets and amortization of indefinite-lived intangible assets.

    (8) Adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per share are non-GAAP measures that should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, net income and earnings per share computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP. 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: State Memorial for David Polson AM

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: State Memorial for David Polson AM

    Published: 13 February 2025

    Released by: The Premier


    The NSW Government is today announcing that the family of David Polson AM has the accepted the offer of a State Memorial Service.

    Mr Polson, who passed away on 10 February 2025, made significant contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community over his lifetime.

    His family accepted the NSW Government’s offer of a State Memorial, following his death at Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital on Monday, aged 70.

    The State Memorial will be held on the morning of Wednesday, 12 March.

    As one of the first 400 men diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Australia in the 1980s at the age of 29, Mr Polson was a long-term survivor, with his commitment to advocacy supported by the 28 HIV drug trials he volunteered for over almost four decades.

    In 2021, he was recognised as a Community Champion by the National Association of People Living with HIV, Gilead Sciences and Positive Life NSW for his services to HIV education and awareness.

    In 2023, he was awarded Member of the Order of Australia for ‘significant service to community health through HIV education and advocacy’.

    He was the Emeritus Founding Chair of Qtopia Sydney, Sydney’s first Queer Museum that opened in Darlinghurst in 2024.

    More details on the March 12 State Memorial will be available in the coming weeks at NSW Government State Services.

    Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns said:

    “David Polson was a ‘trailblazer’ for bravely continually challenging the HIV stigma.

    “His experience and advocacy contributed to life saving medications and significant advancements with a far-reaching international impact for those living with HIV.

    “I have been honoured to work with David over a number of years as he continued to advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community including later in his life and know that his legacy will live on in the community for generations.”

    Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council, Penny Sharpe said:

    “There are people alive today because of the courage and bravery of David Polson.

    “It is a fitting tribute that he has a state memorial to acknowledge his work and share the story of LGBTQIA+ activism in NSW and David’s role in it.

    “David Polson was a genuine hero of the community whose life profoundly helped others.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Civicus Monitor criticises PNG use of cybercrime law to curb free speech

    Pacific Media Watch

    Papua New Guinea’s civic space has been rated as “obstructed” by the Civicus Monitor and the country has been criticised for pushing forward with a controversial media law in spite of strong opposition.

    Among concerns previously documented by the civil rights watchdog are harassment and threats against human rights defenders, particularly those working on land and environmental rights, use of the cybercrime law to criminalise online expression, intimidation and restrictions against journalists, and excessive force during protests.

    In recent months, the authorities have used the cybercrime law to target a human rights defender for raising questions online on forest enforcement, while a journalist and gender-based violence survivor is also facing charges under the law, said the Civicus Monitor in its latest report.

    The court halted a logging company’s lawsuit against a civil society group while the government is pushing forward with the controversial National Media Development law.

    Human rights defender charged under cybercrime law
    On 9 December 2024, human rights defender and ACT NOW! campaign manager Eddie Tanago was arrested and charged by police under section 21(2) of the Cybercrime Act 2016 for allegedly publishing defamatory remarks on social media about the managing director of the PNG Forest Authority.

    Tanago was taken to the Boroko Police Station Holding cell and released on bail the same afternoon. If convicted he could face a maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment.

    ACT NOW is a prominent human rights organisation seeking to halt illegal logging and related human rights violations in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

    According to reports, ACT NOW had reshared a Facebook post from a radio station advertising an interview with PNG Forest Authority (PNGFA) staff members, which included a photo of the managing director.

    The repost included a comment raising questions about PNGFA forest enforcement.

    Following Tanago’s arrest, ACT NOW said: “it believes that the arrest and charging of Tanago is a massive overreach and is a blatant and unwarranted attempt to intimidate and silence public debate on a critical issue of national and international importance.”

    It added that “there was nothing defamatory in the social media post it shared and there is nothing remotely criminal in republishing a poster which includes the image of a public figure which can be found all over the internet.”

    On 24 January 2025, when Tanago appeared at the Waigani Committal Court, he was instead charged under section 15, subparagraph (b) of the Cybercrime Act for “identity theft”. The next hearing has been scheduled for February 25.

    The 2016 Cybercrime Act has been used to silence criticism and creates a chilling effect, said Civicus Monitor.

    The law has been criticised by the opposition, journalists and activists for its impact on freedom of expression and political discourse.

    Journalist and gender activist charged with defamation
    Journalist and gender activist Hennah Joku was detained and charged under the Cybercrime Act on 23 November 2024, following defamation complaints filed by her former partner Robert Agen.

    Joku was charged with two counts of breaching the Cybercrimes Act 2016 and detained in Boroko Prison. She was freed on the same day after bail was posted.

    Joku, a survivor of a 2018 assault by Agen, had documented and shared her six-year journey through the PNG justice system, which had resulted in his conviction and jailing in 2023.

    On 2 September 2024, the PNG Supreme Court overturned two of three criminal convictions, and Agen was released from prison.

    On 4 and 15 September 2024, Joku shared her reactions with more than 9000 followers on her Meta social media account. Those two posts, one of which featured the injuries suffered from her 2018 assault, now form the basis for the current defamation charges against her.

    Section 21(2) of the Cybercrimes Act 2016, which has an electronic defamation clause, carries a maximum penalty of up to 25 years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to one million kina (NZ$442,000).

    The Pacific Freedom Forum (PFF) expressed “grave concerns” over the charges, saying: “We encourage the government and judiciary to review the use of defamation legislation to silence and gag the universal right to freedom of speech.

    “Citizens must be informed. They must be protected.”

    Court stays logging company lawsuit against civil society group
    In January 2025, an injunction issued against community advocacy group ACT NOW! to prevent publication of reports on illegal logging has been stayed by the National Court.

    In July 2024, two Malaysian owned logging companies obtained an order from the District Court in Vanimo preventing ACT NOW! from issuing publications about their activities and from contacting their clients and service providers.

    That order has now been effectively lifted after the National Court agreed to stay the whole District court proceedings while it considers an application from ACT NOW! to have the case permanently stayed and transferred to the National Court.

    ACT NOW! said the action by Global Elite Limited and Wewak Agriculture Development Limited, which are part of the Giant Kingdom group, is an example of Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPP).

    “SLAPPs are illegitimate and abusive lawsuits designed to intimidate, harass and silence legitimate criticism and close down public scrutiny of the logging industry,” said Civicus Monitor.

    SLAPP lawsuits have been outlawed in many countries and lawyers involved in supporting them can be sanctioned, but those protections do not yet exist in PNG.

    The District Court action is not the first time the Malaysian-owned Giant Kingdom group has tried to use the legal system in an attempt to silence ACT NOW!

    In March 2024, the court rejected a similar SLAPP style application by the Global Elite for an injunction against ACT NOW! As a result, the company discontinued its legal action and the court ordered it to pay ACT NOW!’s legal costs.

    Government pushes forward with controversial media legislation
    The government is reportedly ready to pass legislation to regulate its media, which journalism advocates have said could have serious implications for democracy and freedom of speech in the country.

    National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) of PNG reported in January 2025 that the policy has received the “green light” from cabinet to be presented in Parliament.

    The state broadcaster reported that Communications Minister Timothy Masiu said: “This policy will address the ongoing concerns about sensationalism, ethical standards, and the portrayal of violence in the media.”

    In July 2024, it was reported that the proposed media policy was now in its fifth draft but it is unclear if this version has been updated.

    As previously documented, journalists have raised concerns that the media development policy could lead to more government control over the country’s relatively free media.

    The bill includes sections that give the government the “power to investigate complaints against media outlets, issue guidelines for ethical reporting, and enforce sanctions or penalties for violations of professional standards”.

    There are also concerns that the law will punish journalists who create content that is against the country’s development objectives.

    Organisations such as Transparency International PNG, Media Council of PNG, Pacific Freedom Forum, and Pacific Media Watch/Asia Pacific Media Network among others, have asked for the policy to be dropped.

    The press freedom ranking for PNG dropped from 59th place to 91st in the most recent index published by Reporters without Borders (RSF) in May 2024.

    Civicus Monitor.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Questions CCUS Leaders on USE IT Act Implementation, CCUS Project Permitting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    [embedded content]

    To watch Chairman Capito’s questions, click here or the image above.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led a hearing on advancing carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) technologies, and examining the implementation of the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies Act or USE IT Act.

    During the hearing, Chairman Capito questioned Kevin Connors, Assistant Director for Regulatory Compliance and Energy Policy at the Energy and Environmental Research Center; Dan Yates, Executive Director of the Ground Water Protection Council; and Jack Andreasen Cavanaugh, Manager of Carbon Management, U.S. Policy and Advocacy at Breakthrough Energy. In her questions, Chairman Capito asked about the pace of USE IT Act implementation, how to improve the permitting process for CCUS projects, and the importance of bipartisanship in these efforts. 

    HIGHLIGHTS:

    USE IT ACT TASK FORCES: “The USE IT Act was signed in 2020. I also alluded to the two CCUS Permitting Task Forces that have been established, one for federal lands, and one for non-federal lands. I’m interested to know…now that these Task Forces have been chartered and are operating, do you believe that will make an impact on identifying opportunities to improve the permitting, through these Task Forces, as the law requires?”

    NEED FOR RELIABLE ENERGY: “We have a repeating theme here, and I mentioned it in my in my opening statement of the reliabilities, because not only is this an intensive process, the process we see on AI and other things are putting great pressures on our potential for providing electricity for all of this.”

    PERMITTING IS KEY: “The key to all of this, and it’s not the only key, but it’s the key to every one of these projects, is a permitting process that you can move along. You can’t permit a nuclear plant, you can’t permit a pipeline, you can’t permit a transmission line. You’re sort of, at every point of the project, all hands point to permitting, and so any help that you can give us with permitting, Class VI, and those pipelines, I think, will cross benefit all projects.”

    IMPORTANCE OF BIPARTISANSHIP FOR PERMITTING AND CCUS: “As Senator Whitehouse said, this is going to be a bipartisan push. It’s the only way to do it effectively, to get it into legislation, because we see what happens with the regulatory environment, as the shifts of Administrations go from one to the other at the federal level.”

    Click HERE to watch Chairman Capito’s opening statement.

    Click HERE to watch Chairman Capito’s questions.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Indigenous knowledge merges with science to protect people from fish poisoning in Vanuatu

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meg Parsons, Associate Professor in Historical Geography, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Wikimedia/Louisa Cass/AusAID, CC BY-SA

    Ciguatera fish poisoning is the world’s most frequently reported seafood-borne illness.

    It poses a serious health risk to tropical coastal communities, with some of the highest rates reported in Vanuatu. But now, Indigenous knowledge provides crucial insights for predicting fish poisoning outbreaks.

    Our study documents a collaboration between scientists and Indigenous knowledge holders on Vanuatu’s Ambae island. It offers a powerful new model designed to protect people’s health in vulnerable regions.

    Ecological indicators and fish poisoning risk

    Ciguatera poisoning occurs when people eat fish contaminated with ciguatoxins produced by marine algae that accumulate in reef-feeding fish. Symptoms can range from nausea and muscle pain to severe neurological effects. In some cases, the poisoning can lead to serious illness or even death.

    For millennia, Ambae islanders have relied on their knowledge of the local environment to manage their lands and seas in a sustainable manner. They have observed ecological indicators, including environmental changes that precede ciguatera fish poisoning events, to monitor and respond to risks.

    For instance, they note how heavy rains wash volcanic sediments into the ocean, triggering algal blooms that produce ciguatoxins. Likewise, jellyfish blooms and shifts in coral growth signal imbalances in the marine ecosystem, often preceding toxic fish contamination.

    These ecological indicators, passed down through oral traditions, have guided community decisions about fishing practices and food consumption.

    The islanders’ traditional observations are now being woven together with scientific data to create an early-warning system known as the Gigila Framework, named after a local term meaning “risk onset”, to aid public health responses.

    Our research documents 14 key environmental indicators used by Ambae island communities. We cross-referenced these indicators with climate, geological and marine data to confirm their accuracy. By comparing Ambae islanders’ observations with scientific data, we identify which Indigenous indicators can be used to assess when and where ciguatera fish poisoning outbreaks take place.

    Ambae islanders use ecological observations guide decisions about fishing practices and food consumption.
    Allan Rarai, CC BY-SA

    Lessons for other regions

    The Gigila framework is a community-driven early-warning system designed to reduce the risk of people eating contaminated fish. It uses visual markers, such as dials, to indicate risk levels.

    Village elders appoint local people to act as observers to track environmental changes. They then share their observations (such as jellyfish blooms) with government agencies.

    The Gigila model helps local community members make informed decisions about if and where they go fishing. It also strengthens collaborations between Indigenous knowledge holders, scientists and medical professionals.

    The approach makes health risk information more accessible and practical. Instead of replacing Indigenous knowledge, it seeks to empower and enhance it. It also helps to ensure that younger generations learn about it.

    Challenges of working with different knowledge systems

    The weaving together of Indigenous knowledge with scientific knowledge is not without hurdles.

    Indigenous knowledge practices are deeply rooted in local culture, passed on through oral traditions and combined with lived experiences. Scientific research, in contrast, relies on standardised testing, numerical data and universal theories.

    Unsurprisingly, miscommunication between scientists and Indigenous knowledge holders abounds. Scientists sometimes misinterpret and misunderstand Indigenous knowledge and treat it like data to be extracted and exploited. In doing so, Indigenous peoples’ sacred knowledge systems, cultural identities and ways of life are disrespected and marginalised.

    However, the success of the Gigila framework shows that respectful collaborations between scientists and Indigenous knowledge holders are possible. At the heart of this collaboration is respect for Indigenous knowledge holders’ expertise.

    Another vital component is that Indigenous communities are active participants in helping to create and maintain the early-warning system designed to protect their health. This approach highlights the strengths of combining different knowledge systems to address local environmental issues, which can be adapted to fit different problems and risks.

    Local and global applications

    The Gigila framework holds potential beyond Vanuatu. Many small island nations face similar challenges from fish poisoning. Climate change is making these risks worse by creating the environmental conditions that toxic algae favour.

    Warmer sea temperatures, ocean acidification, more intense and frequent extreme weather events and changes in the distribution of fish species are all contributing to more frequent fish poisoning outbreaks worldwide, including in areas with no history of it.

    This highlights the need for enhanced monitoring and management strategies to reduce the impacts on human health and communities that depend on fisheries.

    Other communities could develop their own early-warning systems drawing on the Gigila framework. Globally, Indigenous peoples manage vast ecosystems. Their knowledge and environmental guardianship practices are critical for sustainability and environmental health, but are often sidelined in science and policy.

    The Gigila framework highlights the continued relevance and importance of Indigenous knowledge and the need for Indigenous knowledge holders and scientists to work together in a respectful and equitable manner.

    As climate change accelerates, partnerships between communities and researchers will be crucial. Governments should support locally led initiatives that promote the deployment of Indigenous knowledge with scientific expertise to produce solutions that are both effective and culturally grounded.

    The Gigila framework offers a compelling example of what’s possible when different ways of knowing are woven together. By embracing these approaches, we can build stronger, more resilient and adaptable communities in the face of an uncertain future.

    Allan Rarai receives funding from the Association of the Commonwealth Universities through the Ocean Country Partnership Programme research grant.

    Meg Parsons 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. Indigenous knowledge merges with science to protect people from fish poisoning in Vanuatu – https://theconversation.com/indigenous-knowledge-merges-with-science-to-protect-people-from-fish-poisoning-in-vanuatu-249469

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Building Resilience and Boosting Growth in Asia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    Opening Remarks by Deputy Managing Director Kenji Okamura at the 7th IMF-JICA Conference, Tokyo, Japan

    February 13, 2025

    Honorable Ministers and Governors, President Tanaka, Vice Minister Mimura, and Ladies and Gentlemen:

    Welcome to the 7th IMF-JICA Conference. I am so pleased to be here. Let me first express my gratitude to our co-organizer, JICA, and to the Japanese authorities for their generous support. My thanks also to the JICA and IMF staff who have been working for months to organize this event.

    Let me start with the good news. Despite the shocks of recent years, the global economy has remained surprisingly resilient. Our global projections released in January suggest global growth will hold steady at 3.3 percent this year and next.

    Having said that, divergences across countries are widening. The U.S. is outperforming its advanced economy peers with stronger growth than projected. By contrast, growth in the Euro area will increase only modestly due to weak momentum and high energy prices.

    For emerging market economies, growth projections remain at 4.2 percent and 4.3 percent this year and next. We revised up our growth forecast for China slightly for this year and next. But growth remains slower than in past years and is now more like that of other emerging market economies.

    These forecasts could easily change. There is tremendous uncertainty. The world is changing rapidly: global trade and capital flows are shifting; AI is fast advancing.

    Policymakers will need to be agile and focused on building resilience and lifting growth, which is key to raising living standards and creating jobs. We will discuss how to do that in some of the topics covered today but let me focus on three priorities.

    First, implementing reforms to lift productivity. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but measures that improve the business environment and encourage entrepreneurship, like cutting red tape and deepening capital markets are important. And through our surveillance, we will work with you to identify the right approach with granular and tailored policy advice.

    The second priority is to rebuild fiscal buffers. Public debt and debt servicing ratios in Asia are well above pre-pandemic levels, especially in many Pacific Island countries and emerging markets. Well-designed and growth-friendly fiscal consolidation can reduce debt risks, and create the fiscal space needed to deal with shocks and challenges like ageing or climate change. The Fund can provide useful capacity development in this area, including through peer-to-peer learning.

    Finally, strengthening cooperation. By working together, Asian countries can leverage their collective strengths. In a changing world, this can help buffer against shocks and heightened uncertainty.

    Among Asian countries, cooperation in the areas of AI, digital connectivity, and cross-border digital payments is moving fast, and could be a big boost to growth.

    Let me add one more point as an important message from my end. The IMF continues to play its part at the center of the Global Financial Safety Net (GFSN). My goal—as the Deputy Managing Director that oversees the Fund’s finances—is to ensure that the IMF remains financially strong and sound well into the future. We are also committed to helping Regional Financing Arrangements (RFAs) in Asia be important elements of the GFSN.

    In conclusion, I hope that today’s sessions can contribute to strengthening our ties, as we all navigate these uncertain times together.

    Thank you.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER:

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/13/sp021325-building-resilience-and-boosting-growth-in-asia

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Colleagues Press Rubio for Answers on Impact of Foreign Assistance Cuts in the Western Hemisphere

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, led his colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio pressing him for answers on the Trump Administration’s cuts to U.S. foreign assistance programs and its harmful impact on U.S. national security, including the abrupt curtailment of efforts to mitigate narcotics trafficking, migration, and cartel violence in the Western Hemisphere. The letter comes after Secretary Rubio made his first trip as Secretary of State to Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic.
    “We welcomed your decision to visit key Latin American countries from February 1-6, 2025 – Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic – for your first trip as Secretary of State,” wrote the senators. “All five countries are also home to important U.S. foreign assistance programs and USAID missions that manage much of this funding.”
    “These programs are fundamental to advancing the exact national security priorities you highlighted as the trip’s themes: bolstering regional cooperation, preventing large-scale irregular migration, curtailing cartel activity, countering China and deepening economic partnerships. However, all five countries continue to be subject to a blanket freeze, including on critical national security assistance programming and the suspension of USAID activities on January 24,” they continued.
    The senators then provided several examples of how U.S. foreign assistance in Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the DR has helped counter migration and drug trafficking, strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law, and boost economic growth in the region. They also emphasized the critical role of U.S. foreign assistance in countering China, which has made significant investments in the region over the past decade in an effort to exert influence and control.  
    The senators continued, “During your confirmation hearing, you affirmed that our foreign policy should make America safer, stronger and more prosperous. This freeze in foreign assistance runs contrary to your stated goals and only helps the U.S’s  adversaries. We urge you to closely consider the disruption caused to U.S. security interests by the blanket freezing of these programs, and by the efforts of Elon Musk and the Trump Administration to destroy USAID.”
    “Now that you have returned from your historic trip, we urge you to reflect on the role of U.S. foreign assistance in solidifying our partnerships and advancing our national security interests in Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic, as well as throughout the world, and quickly reverse this short-sighted and damaging freeze,” the senators concluded.
    In addition to Kaine, the letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Alex Padilla (D-CA).
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Rubio:
    We welcomed your decision to visit key Latin American countries from February 1-6, 2025 – Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic – for your first trip as Secretary of State. This decision reflects our mutual understanding of the critical role of our Western Hemisphere partnerships in U.S. national security.
    All five countries are also home to important U.S. foreign assistance programs and USAID missions that manage much of this funding. These programs are fundamental to advancing the exact national security priorities you highlighted as the trip’s themes: bolstering regional cooperation, preventing large-scale irregular migration, curtailing cartel activity, countering China and deepening economic partnerships. However, all five countries continue to be subject to a blanket freeze, including on critical national security assistance programming and the suspension of USAID activities on January 24.
    During your stop in El Salvador, you visited the Aeroman aeronautics plant and used this location as a venue for disparaging the work of USAID and its employees. Although you touted Aeroman as an example of private sector innovation, you may be interested to learn that Aeroman itself is a longstanding beneficiary of USAID’s Bridges to Employment program.
    Other examples include:
    Migrant return programs supported by USAID have helped El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras receive and process nearly 150,000 returned migrants. Prior to January 24, USAID fostered the sustainable reintegration of these migrants into their communities, significantly reducing repeat migration. At a time in which the Trump administration is pushing these countries to accept more and more deportees, these programs are no longer active. 
    In Panama, U.S. foreign assistance has supported projects to enhance border security and boost Panama’s ability to counter narcotrafficking routes and networks. The Darien Gap, on Panama’s southern border with Colombia, is the only land route for migrants traveling north from South America. These programs are no longer active.
    In El Salvador, Congress has appropriated funds for programs to address the security, economic, and social drivers of irregular migration and to strengthen democratic institutions. With poverty around 30 percent over the last five years and with an economy highly dependent on remittances, mass deportations to El Salvador as well as political instability risk an explosion of gang violence. These programs are no longer active.
    In Costa Rica, U.S. foreign assistance has supported Costa Rican law enforcement efforts to dramatically reduce the influence of drug cartels and mitigate other destabilizing security threats – to include helping the country house migrants who would otherwise travel north to the U.S. border. U.S. economic assistance programming has also fostered a ripe investment climate for U.S. firms, including a major Intel computer chip factory that is essential to efforts to counter China’s chipmaking capacity. These programs are no longer active.
    In Guatemala, U.S. foreign assistance has promoted democratic resilience and political stability, including the provision of cost-effective development assistance to support job creation and fostering opportunities for foreign direct investment. This has played a major role in stemming migration and creating economic incentives for migrants and Guatemalans to stay in Guatemala rather than traveling north to the U.S. border. As a result of active U.S. partnership, Guatemala remains one of 12 countries to recognize Taiwan, despite significant pressure from China. These programs are no longer active.
    In the Dominican Republic, U.S. assistance has supported health programs that have limited the spread of infectious diseases – in a country geographically very close to the United States – and has served to mitigate migrant outflows. These programs are no longer active.
    As must have been clear during your trip, U.S. national security interests in every location you visited have been directly advanced by the thoughtful execution of U.S. foreign assistance programming.
    Throughout your Congressional career you were a forceful advocate for curtailing Chinese influence globally and advancing the interests of the American people. You spoke eloquently about the essential role of foreign assistance in advancing U.S. interests. You have also rightly asserted that although foreign assistance represents less than 1 percent of the U.S. budget, it is a major force multiplier that keeps our adversaries at bay. During your confirmation hearing, you affirmed that our foreign policy should make America safer, stronger and more prosperous. This freeze in foreign assistance runs contrary to your stated goals and only helps the U.S’s  adversaries. We urge you to closely consider the disruption caused to U.S. security interests by the blanket freezing of these programs, and by the efforts of Elon Musk and the Trump Administration to destroy USAID.
    What is further clear is that Elon Musk – who maintains deep financial connections to China and engages in secret meetings with Russian officials – does not share your priorities or those of the United States. China and Russia are already moving rapidly to exploit the weaknesses created by the Trump Administration’s global retreat.
    The United States is best able to project power around the world when we are comfortable in our own hemisphere. We are safer and more prosperous when our neighbors are safer and more prosperous. Now that you have returned from your historic trip, we urge you to reflect on the role of U.S. foreign assistance in solidifying our partnerships and advancing our national security interests in Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic, as well as throughout the world, and quickly reverse this short-sighted and damaging freeze.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Video: Kaine Delivers Remarks Slamming Republican Budget Bill Teeing Up Tax Cuts for the Wealthy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO OF KAINE’S REMARKS IS AVAILABLE HERE.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Budget Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) slammed Republicans’ budget resolution that would tee up tax cuts for billionaires at the expense of middle-class Americans. Today, the Senate Budget Committee is beginning a legislative process known as “reconciliation,” which allows certain legislation to be expedited and passed in the Senate by a simple majority. Senate Republicans are using this process to pass their budget proposal in order to avoid having to meet the 60-vote threshold needed for most other legislation.

    “I view this exercise and this resolution as a Trojan horse,” said Kaine. “You do not need reconciliation to do defense, you do not need reconciliation border security. There’s a demonstrated track record in this body that both of those can be done in a bipartisan way. So what’s this bill about?”

    “This is an effort to dramatically cut spending on programs that affect everyday Virginians and everyday Americans,” Kaine continued. “Those dollars – combined with the tariffs that Donald Trump is laying on American families that will make everything more expensive – then go into a big pot that gets used to fund tax cuts for the wealthy.”

    President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress are currently negotiating an extension to Trump’s 2017 tax law, which cut taxes for large corporations and the highest-income earners and substantially increased the federal deficit. They are now proposing broad-based tariffs and massive, across-the-board cuts to federal programs like Medicaid to fund these tax cuts for billionaires. Tax estimates have shown that if enacted, Trump’s tariffs could raise costs by $2,500 to nearly $4,000 per household, and American consumers could lose between $46 billion to $78 billion in spending power each year.

    MIL OSI USA News