Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH suspends licence of day procedure centre in Causeway Bay

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH suspends licence of day procedure centre in Causeway Bay
    ***********************************************************

    In response to media enquiries about the suspension of the licence of a day procedure centre (DPC) in Causeway Bay, a spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) today (March 5) responded as follows:     “Upon receipt of a complaint about a suspected mishandling of medical equipment by a DPC, Dr MD Clinic and Ambulatory Centre located at the World Trade Centre in Causeway Bay, the DH immediately investigated and conducted unannounced inspections. During the inspections, the DPC was found to have contravened the Code of Practice for Day Procedure Centres under the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, namely improper handling and management of an anaesthetic drug, failure to properly sterilise medical equipment, and inadequate staff training and supervision. In addition, the DPC was suspected to have filled in false information in the checking and monitoring of records, including those concerning medical equipment.      The DH has not received any reports of adverse events related to this DPC on the matter so far.           Given the potential risks to patients of the multiple serious breaches of the Code of Practice, and in order to protect the public interest, the DH announced the suspension of the DPC’s licence with immediate effect. The DPC in question will not be allowed to provide any specialised services listed on its licence, including surgical and anaesthetic procedures.           At the same time, the DH has initiated the process for cancellation of the licence for the DPC concerned. Under sections 30 and 31 of the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, the licensee will be given a 14 days’ notice and an opportunity to make representations within 10 days from the date of the notice given to the licensee before the licence is cancelled.           If there is sufficient evidence, the DH will also refer the case to the relevant enforcement or professional regulatory bodies for necessary follow-up action on the suspected use of a false instrument and professional misconduct by the person involved.           The DH reminds those who have undergone anaesthetic procedures, including tumescent anesthesia at the above-mentioned DPC, to seek immediate medical attention if they feel unwell.      The DH will continue to closely monitor licensed private healthcare facilities to protect patient safety.”

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 12:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by SLW on Productivity Enhancement Programme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Remarks by SLW on Productivity Enhancement Programme
    ****************************************************

    Following are the remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, on the Productivity Enhancement Programme at a media session after attending a radio programme this morning (March 5): Reporter: Good morning, Mr Sun. Will the 7 per cent funding cut to social welfare organisations affect their services? And also, you had a meeting with the representatives on Monday, did they propose any suggestions to share their financial burden with the Government? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: Thank you. Under the Productivity Enhancement Programme just announced by the Financial Secretary in his Budget, all envelope holders, including me, have to deliver by the year 2027-28 a cumulative reduction of 7 per cent. That means I have to work together and discuss with the 170-odd NGOs (non-governmental organisations) to make sure that we can deliver that target. In coming up with our proposal, I have tried my very best to absorb the farthest possible reduction through the Social Welfare Department.      But given the magnitude of the reduction, it is just not possible for the department itself to absorb all the reduction, so we have to come up with a proposal. In coming up with the proposal, again we are guided by the principle that we should provide hope as far as possible to the small and medium NGOs, so that the cut is much moderate. Instead of a 7 per cent cumulative cut, we have absorbed 4 per cent. Altogether, for the small and medium NGOs, they will face a cut of 3 per cent by the year 2027-28.      However, for large NGOs, there is not much we can help. They have to reduce their budget by 2027-28 by 7 per cent. But at the same time, we are trying our very best to, first of all, provide a much longer period for them to manage and hold their reserve, so firstly, they can make better use of that reserve to get through the more difficult years. And secondly, over cost apportionment, we are providing more flexibility. The first round of relaxation has just been announced.      And also, we are going to review each and every Funding and Service Agreement (FSA). The purpose is to provide more flexibility to reduce reporting and supervision, but of course, this is subject to the principle that it is not going to affect the benefits of their users. So I am pretty confident after the meeting on Monday that we are more or less on the same page. We are working together. We are facing a budget cut, but at the same time, because of the more flexible use of reserve and also the efforts we are making to provide more room for them to make better use of their resources, we should be able to deal with that together. Thank you. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.)

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected methamphetamine worth about $360 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected methamphetamine worth about $360 million (with photo)
    ****************************************************************************************

    ​Hong Kong Customs seized about 680 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine with an estimated market value of about $360 million in Kwai Chung on February 10.     Through risk assessment, Customs on that day inspected a seaborne consignment, arriving in Hong Kong from Mexico and declared as carrying heating panels, at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the batch of suspected methamphetamine concealed inside 80 heating panels. Upon a follow-up investigation, Customs arrested a 67-year-old male consignee, claiming to be a driver, in Kwai Chung on the same day.     On March 3, Customs conducted a controlled delivery operation, leading to the further arrest of two men, aged 35 and 45, who were suspected to be connected with the case in Tsuen Wan.     The investigation is ongoing.     Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.     Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 14:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Jan Aushadhi- Pharmacist’s Awareness Seminars: Fifth day of celebrations for Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Jan Aushadhi- Pharmacist’s Awareness Seminars: Fifth day of celebrations for Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025

    Seminars conducted in Pharmacy Colleges/Universities across the country to spread awareness among Pharmacy students about the scheme; students also made aware about the entrepreneurial opportunities being offered through Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana

    Information about “Jan Aushadhi Sugam Mobile App” highlighted for spreading awareness about the proper usage of this application by the citizens

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 5:32PM by PIB Delhi

    On the fifth day of 7th Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025 seminars were organised in Pharmacy Colleges/Universities in 30 cities in 30 different States across country to spread awareness among Pharmacy students about Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana so that pharmacy students can take the advantage of the scheme by opening Jan Aushadhi Kendras and become self-employed.

    Pharmacists play a crucial role in our society by dispensing the medicines through various mediums to patients and citizens in the proper way and providing support to take medicines on time with prescribed dosage. In order to spread awareness among Pharmacy students about the salient features of the scheme, various seminars were conducted. In these seminars, students were given information about Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana and its benefits to the society. The students were also made aware about the entrepreneurial opportunities which are being offered through Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana. The students were also told about the high-quality products which are being sold through dedicated outlets known as Jan Aushadhi Kendras. At the end, students were encouraged to become a part of this noble project through which quality medicines are being provided at affordable rates.

    During these seminars, information about “Jan Aushadhi Sugam Mobile App” has been highlighted for spreading awareness about the proper usage of this application by the citizens. Presently, more than 15,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been opened across the country covering all the districts of the country. Under the scheme, the Government has set a target to open 25000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by 31st March, 2027 across the country.

    At the initiative of the Prime Minister, the 7th of March is celebrated every year as “Jan Aushadhi Diwas” with a view to enhance awareness about the scheme and promote generic medicines. As in earlier years, week-long events have been planned at various locations across the country from the 1st to the 7th of March 2025.

    *****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2108537) Visitor Counter : 21

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Attention Electronic Music Producers and DJs: Last call to board the WAVES 2025 Challenge bus!

    Source: Government of India

    Attention Electronic Music Producers and DJs: Last call to board the WAVES 2025 Challenge bus!

    Registration Deadline for ‘Resonate: The EDM Challenge’ extended to March 31st, 2025

    Don’t Miss Your Chance to shine on the Global Stage to showcase your talent for electronic music!

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 4:26PM by PIB Mumbai

    : Mumbai, March 5, 2025

    World Audio and Video Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 is providing a platform for aspiring DJs, producers, and electronic music artists to shine and showcase their talents in electronic music and DJ artistry! So, if you are an electronic music producer and have a flair for DJing, then the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 is the ultimate stage to showcase your talents.

    The Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) in collaboration with Indian Music Industry (IMI) is organizing “Resonate: The EDM Challenge” as part of the ‘Create in India Challenge’ which offers an exciting opportunity to showcase your creative talents and innovation in the world of audio, visual, and entertainment. The competition is open to artists, composers, musicians, and performers from any country with prior experience in creating and producing Electronic Dance Music (EDM). This challenge seeks to strengthen India’s status as a global center for music fusion, electronic music and DJing artistry. The theme of the competition is “Resonate: The EDM Challenge” focusing on the use of Global music styles to create a cohesive and culturally rich musical piece.

    Due to an overwhelming demand for this genre of music, the registration deadline for the EDM Challenge has been officially extended to March 31st, 2025.

    For details on eligibility criteria, click here.

    To Register, click on to https://indianmi.org/resonate-the-edm-challenge/    

    Further details here.  and here.

    This is a golden opportunity for electronic music enthusiasts and performers to make a mark in the global electronic dance music scene. So, make best use of this final chance to be part of this groundbreaking competition under the ‘Create in India Challenges’ initiative at the WAVES 2025.

    About the Grand Finale of “Resonate: The EDM Challenge”: 

    The grand finale of this Challenge, which will take place in Mumbai between May 1-4, 2025,  will be an opportunity for the top 10 finalists to perform in front of all the who’s who of the electronic music industry. This unmatched exposure will earn them unmatched recognition by the audience, creators, music producers, and industry stalwarts. Hence, the finalists will also have a chance to collaborate and network with upcoming artists as well as prominent creators as part of India’s creative sphere.

    The clock is ticking, and the beats are dropping!  Don’t let this opportunity provided by the Union Ministry of Information slip away.

    The world is ready to listen to you. Are you ready to drop the beat?

    For further details, contact – wavesatinfo@indianmi.org

    Scan the QR Code to register in Resonate: The EDM Challenge

    About WAVES 2025:

    The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

    Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

    WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

    Have questions? Find answers here  

    Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now (Coming soon!).

    *** 

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Nikita Joshi/ Sriyanka Chatterjee/ Preeti Malandkar | –

    (Release ID: 2108493) Visitor Counter : 79

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Station Nation: Meet Chris Wade, Visiting Vehicle Integration Manager for SpaceX Vehicles 

    Source: NASA

    Chris Wade is a visiting vehicle integration manager for SpaceX vehicles in the International Space Station Transportation Integration Office. He plays a key role in ensuring that all vehicle requirements are on track to support SpaceX missions to the space station. Chris also manages a team of real-time mission support personnel who follow launch, docking, undocking, and splashdown operations. Read on to learn about his career with NASA and more! 
    Where are you from? 
    I am from Clarksdale, Mississippi. 
    Tell us about your role at NASA.  
    I manage horizontal integration between the SpaceX vehicle provider and the Commercial Crew and International Space Station Programs. In this role, I work to ensure all vehicle requirements will close in time to support upcoming SpaceX missions to the orbiting laboratory and achieve final certification prior to launch. Additionally, as a vehicle integration manager, I manage a team of real-time mission support personnel who follow launch, docking, undocking, and splashdown operations. 

    cHRIS wade
    Visiting Vehicle Integration Manager for SpaceX Vehicles

    How would you describe your job to family or friends who may not be familiar with NASA?  
    In my current position, I am responsible for ensuring SpaceX Dragon vehicles have met all requirements to conduct missions to the space station. 
    How long have you been working for NASA?  
    I have been working at Johnson Space Center for 25 years. 
    What advice would you give to young individuals aspiring to work in the space industry or at NASA?  
    I would advise young individuals to focus their studies on the STEM fields and work hard. I would also advise aspiring candidates to start applying for NASA internships as soon as feasible and don’t be opposed to opportunities in the contractor workforce. 
    What was your path to NASA?  
    My path to NASA was through the contractor workforce. I started working in space station robotic assembly analysis for Lockheed Martin directly out of college, then later became a civil servant at NASA. 
    Is there someone in the space, aerospace, or science industry that motivated or inspired you to work for the space program? Or someone you discovered while working for NASA who inspires you?   
    The Space Shuttle Challenger STS-51-L crew motivated me to pursue a career at NASA. I vividly remember watching the launch from an elementary classroom in Mississippi and thinking, I wish I could do something to help one day. When I got an opportunity to work at Johnson, it was a no-brainer for me to accept the offer. 
    What is your favorite NASA memory?  
    My favorite NASA memory is when I saw my first rocket launch, which was HTV-1 in Kagoshima, Japan. 

    What do you love sharing about station? What’s important to get across to general audiences to help them understand its benefits to life on Earth?  
    I enjoy telling people that we have a space station that has been in low Earth orbit with people on it for nearly 25 years and we rotate crews of astronauts every six months. 
    If you could have dinner with any astronaut, past or present, who would it be?  
    I would have dinner with NASA astronaut Ron McNair. Growing up in a small southern town, my path to NASA was very similar to his. I find it fascinating how individuals from different eras can end up on similar paths in life, and I would love to have a conversation with him about the choices he made that lead to his career as an astronaut. 
    Do you have a favorite space-related memory or moment that stands out to you?  
    My favorite space-related memory is watching the SpaceX Demo-2 Crew Mission arrive at the International Space Station. That was the first launch of NASA astronauts from American soil since the Space Shuttle Program had ended almost 10 years prior.
    What are some of the key projects you’ve worked on during your time at NASA? What have been your favorite?   
    Some of the key projects I’ve worked on include: 

    Robotic assembly of the International Space Station 

    Robotic visiting vehicle capture  

    Cargo and crew dragon visiting vehicle mission certification 

    Of these, my favorite was the robotic visiting vehicle capture project. For this project, I got to work with the Canadian Space Agency and develop a method of using the space station’s robotic arm to grab unmanned visiting resupply vehicles. 

    What are your hobbies/things you enjoy outside of work?  
    Some of my favorite hobbies include running, reading, listening to audio books, and visiting family and friends back in Mississippi. 
    Day launch or night launch?   
    Day launch! 
    Favorite space movie?  
    Armageddon 
    NASA “worm” or “meatball” logo?  
    Worm 

    Every day, we’re conducting exciting research aboard our orbiting laboratory that will help us explore further into space and bring benefits back to people on Earth. You can keep up with the latest news, videos, and pictures about space station science on the Station Research & Technology news page. It’s a curated hub of space station research digital media from Johnson and other centers and space agencies.  
    Sign up for our weekly email newsletter to get the updates delivered directly to you.  
    Follow updates on social media at @ISS_Research on Twitter, and on the space station accounts on Facebook and Instagram.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – KAMAʻĀINA ARTISTS SELECTED FOR RESIDENCY PROGRAM, March 4, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – KAMAʻĀINA ARTISTS SELECTED FOR RESIDENCY PROGRAM, March 4, 2025

    Posted on Mar 4, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ʻOIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ĀINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DAWN CHANG

    CHAIR

     

    KAMAʻĀINA ARTISTS SELECTED FOR RESIDENCY PROGRAM

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 4, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – Four artists have been selected as the state of Hawaiʻiʻs Climate Artists in Residence. The innovative programseeks to engage local artists in the co-development of Hawaiʻi’s Climate Action Pathways (CAP) through creating works across a range of artistic media. The awardees stood out from a competitive applicant pool of 65 artists representing a range of media from throughout Hawaiʻi.

     

    The selected artists will each receive a stipend of $5,000, plus $2,000 for materials.

    They are:

     

    • Keisha Tanaka, an ʻōiwi photographer whose works capture the intimate moments that weave together the rich tapestry of her community’s stories.
    • Benjamin Fairfield, an educator whose work turns trash into music and musical instruments, reminding us that everything we attempt to cast away has potential, worth, and purpose.
    • Gillian Dueñas, a Chamoru painter who uses art to connect with her ancestors and homeland while in the diaspora.
    •  Erin Voss, a designer whose work visualizes the complex relationships between communities and ecosystems.

     

     

    “The response to this call was truly stunning, said Leah Laramee, State Climate Coordinator. “Our goal is to co-develop the CAP in a manner that speaks to people, and it is clear that art is one of those pathways.” Through art, this unique program aims to inspire and connect Hawaiʻi residents to critical climate change challenges.

     

    The artists will engage in the development of key topics from the CAP, including cultural knowledge, land stewardship, energy efficiency, transportation decarbonization, and community resilience.

     

    The secure future of Indigenous communities is my priority. Discussions about climate change can be very traumatizing and anxiety inducing for our peoples, so I use art as a medicine and tool for instilling hope. I am thrilled to be working with native, Pasifika, local, county, and state organizations to continue doing this work, said Gillian Dueñas, one of the selected artists. “Our Pasifika ancestors have always been innovators and visionaries, and art is the legacy that they have left for us to inherit and use as a tool to sustain our peoples.”

     

    Artists will participate in subject matter meetings throughout the year and will have the chance to visit related projects on the ground. The finished artworks will be exhibited at the Capitol Modern, the Hawaiʻi State Art Museum in Honolulu, from October 1-31, 2025. This project, in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program, aligns with the CCMACs mission to promote ambitious, climate-neutral, and culturally responsive strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation in Hawaiʻi.

     

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

     

    Photographs – Artists and artwork: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4g21yhcltn1wk7n3ya3yz/AMWSCZ0Xp7sFaJr0Gxt5biI?rlkey=fw9r26vboticm3ov1udb5gml5&st=xtrukabs&dl=0

    For full application details and more information on the artists and the work of CCMAC, go to CCMAC’s website at: https://climate.hawaii.gov/art/

    For more information about the CAP, please contact: Udi Mandel Butler, Climate Action Program Manager at CCMAC, [email protected]

     

     

    Media contact:

    Patti Jette

    Communications Specialist

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    Phone: 808-587-0396

    Email: [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-33 WALGREENS AGREES TO NEARLY $98 MILLION SETTLEMENT TO RESOLVE ALLEGATIONS IT BILLED THE GOVERNMENT FOR UNCOLLECTED PRESCRIPTIONS

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-33 WALGREENS AGREES TO NEARLY $98 MILLION SETTLEMENT TO RESOLVE ALLEGATIONS IT BILLED THE GOVERNMENT FOR UNCOLLECTED PRESCRIPTIONS

    Posted on Mar 4, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

     

    WALGREENS AGREES TO PAY NEARLY $98 MILLION TO RESOLVE ALLEGATIONS IT BILLED THE GOVERNMENT FOR UNCOLLECTED PRESCRIPTIONS

     

    News Release 2025-33

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    March 4, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – Attorney General Anne Lopez announced today that the state of Hawai‘i has joined the 49 other attorneys general in a settlement against Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. and Walgreen Co. (together, Walgreens). Under the terms of the agreement, Walgreens — which operates one of the largest retail pharmacy chains in the country from its headquarters in Deerfield, Illinois — will pay $97.8 million to resolve allegations that it unlawfully billed government health care programs for prescriptions that were never collected or otherwise received by patients.

     

    The settlement agreement will resolve allegations set forth in two qui tam lawsuits: the Turck Civil Action (United States ex rel. Turck, et al. v. Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., et al., No. 4:19-cv-315 (E.D. Tex. filed Apr. 26, 2019)); and the Jacob Civil Action(United States, et al. ex rel. Jacob v. Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., No. 8:20-cv-858-T-60TGW (M.D. Fla. filed Apr. 23, 2020)). These lawsuits specifically allege that between 2009 and 2020, Walgreens unlawfully billed Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health care programs for prescriptions drugs that were never picked up by beneficiaries.  As a result of this unlawful conduct, Walgreens received tens of millions of dollars for uncollected prescriptions that it never actually provided to patients.

     

    After the suits were filed, Walgreens implemented enhancements to its billing systems designed to prevent any future unlawful billing for uncollected prescriptions. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Walgreens received credit for self-disclosing certain claims, and for previously refunding $66.3 million in connection with the settled claims. The total recovery for all Medicaid programs under the settlement is $9.6 million. Of that amount, Hawai‘i will receive $3,524.83 in recoveries.

     

    A National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units (NAMFCU) Team investigated the allegations in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice and United States Attorneys’ Offices in Texas and Florida. The NAMFCU Team included representatives from the respective Office of the Attorney General for the states of Wisconsin, California, Texas, Maine, Oregon and Massachusetts.

     

    Landon M.M. Murata, the Director of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (Hawai‘i MFCU), under the Department of the Attorney General, and Judy Mohr Peterson, Ph.D., Med-QUEST Division Administrator at the Department of Human Services, entered into the settlement agreement on behalf of the state of Hawai‘i.

     

    “This is a significant win in the fight against healthcare fraud in our country. We appreciate all the hard work and dedication of our federal and state partners who made this settlement possible. It is important that remain vigilant to ensure that taxpayer dollars dedicated to supporting our critical healthcare programs like Medicaid, are not being squandered.” said Hawaiʻi MFCU Director Murata.

     

    The Hawai‘i MFCU is a specialized unit within the Department of the Attorney General that is charged with conducting criminal and civil investigations and prosecutions of (1) provider fraud against the Medicaid Program, (2) fraud in the administration of the Medicaid Program, and (3) abuse and neglect of Medicaid beneficiaries and residents of board and care facilities throughout the state of Hawai‘i.

     

    The Walgreens settlement agreement with Hawaiʻi can be found here.

     

    # # #

     

    Media contacts:

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284                                                  

    Email: [email protected]        

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
    Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office:
    808-586-1252
    Cell: 808-379-9249
    Email:
    [email protected] 

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ ETFs Announces Distributions on FIAT (101.61%), ULTY (82.09%), CONY (79.47%), YMAX (85.55%), YMAG (48.55%) and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ today announced distributions for the YieldMax™ Weekly Payers and Group C ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Distribution Frequency Distribution per Share Distribution Rate2,4 30-Day
    SEC Yield3
    ROC5 Ex-Date & Record Date Payment Date
    QDTY YieldMax™ Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.1580 33.90% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    SDTY YieldMax™ S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.1709 100.00% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    GPTY YieldMax™ AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.3094 37.80% 0.00% 0.00% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    LFGY YieldMax™ Crypto Industry
    & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF
    Weekly $0.4637 61.48% 0.00% 0.00% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe
    Fund of Option Income ETFs
    Weekly $0.2405 85.55% 85.03% 48.89% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7
    Fund of Option Income ETFs
    Weekly $0.1514 48.55% 61.87% 55.46% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    CONY YieldMax™ COIN Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.5989 79.47% 4.56% 94.78% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    FIAT YieldMax™ Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.6834 101.61% 3.52% 96.91% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    MSFO YieldMax™ MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.2845 22.70% 3.53% 83.81% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    AMDY YieldMax™ AMD Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.2533 40.54% 4.02% 92.00% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    NFLY YieldMax™ NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.4008 29.38% 3.23% 0.00% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    ABNY YieldMax™ ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.4805 42.34% 2.98% 92.39% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    PYPY YieldMax™ PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.3773 35.98% 4.20% 90.73% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    ULTY* YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $0.4653 82.09% 0.00% 78.20% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    CVNY YieldMax™ CVNA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 Weeks $3.9149 96.80% 3/6/25 3/7/25
    Weekly Payers & Group D ETFs scheduled for next week: ULTY QDTY SDTY GPTY LFGY YMAX YMAG MSTY YQQQ AMZY APLY AIYY DISO SQY SMCY
     

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH and YQQQ are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs.”

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

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

    *Starting March 12, 2025, ULTY intends to distribute weekly income to shareholders. The dates for ULTY ’s future distributions will be those set forth in the YieldMax Distribution Schedule.

    1All YieldMax™ ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, YMAG and FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.   
    2The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on March 4, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.
    3 The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended February 28, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.
    4 Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.
    5 ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage is the portion of the distribution that represents an investor’s original investment.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Standardized Performance

    For YMAX, click here. For YMAG, click here. For TSLY, click here. For OARK, click here. For APLY, click here. For NVDY, click here. For AMZY, click here. For FBY, click here. For GOOY, click here. For NFLY, click here. For CONY, click here. For MSFO, click here. For DISO, click here. For XOMO, click here. For JPMO, click here. For AMDY, click here. For PYPY, click here. For SQY, click here. For MRNY, click here. For AIYY, click here. For MSTY, click here. For ULTY, click here. For YBIT, click here. For CRSH, click here. For GDXY, click here. For SNOY, click here. For ABNY, click here. For FIAT, click here. For DIPS, click here. For BABO, click here. For YQQQ, click here. For TSMY, click here. For SMCY, click here. For PLTY, click here. For BIGY, click here. For SOXY, click here. For MARO, click here. For FEAT, click here. For FIVY, click here. For LFGY, click here. For GPTY, click here. For CVNY, click here. For SDTY, click here. For QDTY, click here.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

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

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

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    Russell 2000 Index Risks. The Index, which consists of small-cap U.S. companies, is particularly susceptible to economic changes, as these firms often have less financial resilience than larger companies. Market volatility can disproportionately affect these smaller businesses, leading to significant price swings. Additionally, these companies are often more exposed to specific industry risks and have less diverse revenue streams. They can also be more vulnerable to changes in domestic regulatory or policy environments.

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

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

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

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

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

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

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

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

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

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

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

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

    © 2025 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Lantronix to Participate in 37th Annual ROTH Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif., March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity for IoT solutions enabling AI Edge Intelligence, today announced that Lantronix CEO Saleel Awsare will be a presenter at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference being held March 16–18, 2025, at the Laguna Cliff Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point, Calif. He will participate in the “Edge Compute & AI” panel on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

    Awsare and Brent Stringham, CFO at Lantronix, will also participate in one-on-one meetings. To request a one-on-one meeting with Lantronix, please email oneonone@roth.com or contact your ROTH sales representative. To learn more and submit a registration request, visit www.roth.com/oc2025.

    About Lantronix

    Lantronix Inc. is a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions that target high-growth markets, including Smart Cities, Enterprise and Transportation. Lantronix’s products and services empower companies to succeed in the growing IoT markets by delivering customizable solutions that enable AI Edge Intelligence. Lantronix’s advanced solutions include Intelligent Substations infrastructure, Infotainment systems and Video Surveillance, supplemented with advanced Out-of-Band Management (OOB) for Cloud and Edge Computing.

    For more information, visit the Lantronix website.

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including, without limitation, statements related to Lantronix products or leadership team. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; our ability to mitigate any disruption in our and our suppliers’ and vendors’ supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other outbreaks, wars and recent tensions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, or other factors; future responses to and effects of public health crises; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Sept. 9, 2024, including in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of Part I of that report, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. In addition, actual results may differ as a result of additional risks and uncertainties about which we are currently unaware or which we do not currently view as material to our business. For these reasons, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements we make speak only as of the date on which they are made. We expressly disclaim any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof to conform such statements to actual results or to changes in our opinions or expectations, except as required by applicable law or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC. If we do update or correct any forward-looking statements, investors should not conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections.

    ©2025 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

    Lantronix Media Contact:
    Gail Kathryn Miller
    Corporate Marketing &
    Communications Manager
    media@lantronix.com

    Lantronix Analyst and Investor Contact:
    investors@lantronix.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NuVista Energy Ltd. Announces Record Year End 2024 Reserves, Financial and Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NuVista Energy Ltd. (“NuVista” or the “Company“) (TSX: NVA) is pleased to announce record-setting reserves and strong financial and operating results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024. The repeatable, predictable and profitable nature of our assets have once again underpinned significant growth in our reserves. Continued success in the Lower Montney and sanctioning of our Gold Creek area expansion have set the stage for continued growth toward 125,000 Boe/d. We are entering 2025 in a strong financial position with operational momentum and a commitment to shareholder returns. We are pleased to reaffirm our annual capital and production guidance for the year.

    Operational and Financial Highlights

    During the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024, NuVista:

    • Produced an average of 85,635 Boe/d in the fourth quarter, exceeding our guidance range of 83,000 – 84,000 Boe/d. We achieved our highest-ever annual average production of 83,084 Boe/d, an 8% increase from 2023. Annual production composition aligned with guidance, with a volume weighting of 30% condensate, 9% NGLs and 61% natural gas;
    • Successfully executed a capital expenditure(2) program, investing $498.9 million in well and facility activities, including the drilling of 43 wells and the completion of 38 wells throughout the year. Fourth quarter, capital expenditures totaled $71.1 million, with 9 wells drilled;
    • Delivered annual adjusted funds flow(1) of $552.2 million ($2.68/share, basic(3)), with adjusted funds flow from the fourth quarter contributing $137.1 million ($0.67/share, basic);
    • Generated free adjusted funds flow(2) of $39.6 million for the year ($0.19/share, basic(3));
    • Repurchased and cancelled 5.9 million common shares in 2024 at an average price of $12.52 per common share, for a total cost of $74.4 million. Since the inception of the Company’s normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”) in 2022, we have repurchased and cancelled 36.5 million common shares for an aggregate cost of $438.3 million or $12.01 per share;
    • Exited the year with $5.4 million drawn on our $450 million credit facility and net debt(1) of $232.5 million, maintaining a favorable net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow(1) ratio of 0.4x;
    • Achieved annual net earnings of $305.7 million ($1.48/share, basic), including $99.2 million ($0.48/share, basic) in the fourth quarter;
    • Added LNG sales to our natural gas diversification portfolio by gaining exposure to the Japan/Korea marker (“JKM”) through a netback agreement with Trafigura based on 21,000 MMbtu/d of LNG for a period of up to thirteen years commencing January 1, 2027; and
    • Recognized as part of the TSX30 for the third consecutive year. The TSX30 recognizes the thirty top-performing companies on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) over the prior three-year period (see www.tsx.com/tsx30). We ranked a notable sixth place overall.

    Notes:

    (1) Each of “adjusted funds flow”, “net debt” and “net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow” are capital management measures. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
    (2) Each of “free adjusted funds flow” and “capital expenditures” are non-GAAP financial measures that do not have any standardized meanings under IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
    (3) Each of “adjusted funds flow per share” and “free adjusted funds flow per share” are supplementary financial measures. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
       

    Significant Profitable and Repeatable Reserves Growth

    NuVista is pleased to announce the results of our year end 2024 independent reserves evaluation conducted by GLJ Ltd. (“GLJ”) effective as at December 31, 2024 (the “GLJ Report”). NuVista’s proven track record of continuous improvement, along with the substantial depth and quality of our undeveloped resources, reinforces our ability to deliver sustained shareholder returns in our journey to 125,000 Boe/d.

    Our GLJ Report includes the following key accomplishments:

    • Reported Proved Developed Producing (“PDP”) reserves of 177.3 MMBoe, a year-over-year increase of 9%, or a 12% increase on a per share basis, driven by a successful 2024 development program and 2% positive technical revisions due to new well outperformance;
    • Recorded Total Proved plus Probable (“TP+PA”) reserves of 779.7 MMBoe, a year-over-year increase of 21%, or a 24% increase on a per share basis, attributed to the continued success in NuVista’s multi-layer Montney development in Pipestone and successful Lower and Upper Montney delineation in Wapiti;
    • Replaced 150% and 550% of 2024 production on a PDP and TP+PA basis(1), respectively, reflecting the success of our 2024 capital program and continued expansion of our undeveloped location inventory;
    • Delivered PDP Finding, Development and Acquisition Cost (“FD&A”)(1) of $11.13/Boe that exceeded our expectations due to well outperformance and cost reductions;
    • Achieved a PDP recycle ratio(1) of 1.8x based on our 2024 operating netback(1);
    • TP+PA FD&A was $6.97/Boe, driven by the planned expansion of our infrastructure to 125,000 Boe/d and a 26% increase in undeveloped TP+PA drilling locations;
    • Total developed wells increased by 42 to 395, while the total undeveloped drilling locations increased by 9 to 1,189, which reflects over 25 years of development at the current pace(3); and
    • PDP, TP, and TP+PA before-tax net present value, discounted at 10% (NPV10)(2), are $10.01, $20.56, and $30.11 per share, respectively, at December 31, 2024, reflecting the underlying value of our assets.

    Notes:

    (1) Each of “reserve replacement”, “FD&A costs”, “recycle ratio” and “operating netback” are non-GAAP financial ratios. See “Oil and Gas Advisories” and “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release for information relating to these specified financial measures.
    (2) Reference to “net present value per share” is a supplementary financial measure. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” in this press release.
    (3) Total undeveloped locations include 422 undeveloped proved plus probable drilling locations and 767 undeveloped contingent resource drilling locations. See “Oil and Gas Advisories”.
       

    The detailed summary of our year end 2024 reserves disclosure and other oil and gas information is included below, and further information will be included in our Annual Information Form which will be filed on or before March 28, 2025 on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Return of Capital to Shareholders and Balance Sheet Strength

    NuVista’s approach to capital allocation is focused on the compounding effect of absolute growth and a reduction in our outstanding common shares to produce industry leading total returns. We intend to allocate a minimum of $100 million in 2025, to the repurchase of the Company’s common shares pursuant to our NCIB and will allocate at least 75% of any incremental free adjusted funds flow towards additional share repurchases.

    We ended the year in a position of low debt and significant financial flexibility. As at December 31, 2024, our net debt was $232.5 million, well below our soft ceiling of approximately $350 million. We were minimally drawn on our $450 million covenant-based credit facility, at $5.4 million, with a net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow ratio of 0.4x. The net debt soft ceiling ensures that based on current production levels, our net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio remains at or below 1.0x in a stress test price environment of US$45/Bbl WTI and US$2.00/MMBtu NYMEX.

    We remain focused on our disciplined and value-adding growth strategy, and providing significant shareholder returns. We continue to view share repurchases as the most effective initial method of returning capital to shareholders and will reassess this approach as our growth plan progresses.

    Operations and 2025 Guidance

    Operations through the end of the year and into the first quarter of 2025 have progressed well. Consistent utilization of our two drilling rigs continues to pay dividends with new spud to rig release records being set. Completion operations kicked off again in January and despite extremely frigid temperatures, pumping efficiency has come in better than planned. With strong execution thus far in 2025 capital costs are trending below budget and we are forecasting a well cost reduction of 3% year-over-year.

    In Wapiti, we brought on a 5-well pad in Bilbo in January, which targeted three benches, including a Lower Montney, initial results from the pad are encouraging and in-line with expectations. We have finished drilling a 5-well pad in Elmworth, which is slated to come on-stream during the second quarter. In Gold Creek we are drilling a 4-well pad, including two Lower Montney wells, which is expected to come on-stream later in the second quarter. Notably, the 6-well pad between Gold Creek and Elmworth, which was co-developed across the entire stack of 4 zones, has reached its IP90 milestone producing on average 1,500 Boe/d per well, including 33% condensate. Importantly, the Lower Montney has performed in-line with the other benches. In Pipestone, we are completing a 14-well pad that is expected to come on-stream in the second quarter. Additionally, we are drilling an 8-well pad that is expected to come on-stream in the third quarter.

    Production in January and February has been trending favorably, we forecast first quarter production to average 87,000 – 88,000 Boe/d. As exhibited above we have material production additions slated to come on-line in the coming months. As previously communicated, the majority of our 2025 growth will come from the Pipestone area with the start-up of a third-party gas plant (“Pipestone Plant”), which is expected to be online during the second quarter. The Pipestone Plant will unlock approximately 8,000 – 10,000 Boe/d of additional productive capacity for NuVista. Given the performance of our base assets and current outlook, we anticipate our annual production to average approximately 92,000 Boe/d, assuming a second quarter start-up of the Pipestone Plant. If this start-up is delayed into the fourth quarter of the year, our expected annual average production will be approximately 88,000 Boe/d. Consequently, this range allows us to reiterate our annual production guidance of approximately 90,000 Boe/d.

    Further we reaffirm our annual capital expenditure guidance target of approximately $450 million, which will allow us to continue to prioritize at least a triple-digit return of capital to shareholders through the repurchase of our outstanding common shares.

    We are fortunate that our business has the flexibility, superior asset quality and underlying balance sheet strength to afford this. We intend to continue our track record of carefully directing free adjusted funds flow towards a prudent balance of capital return to shareholders and debt reduction, while investing in high return growth projects. NuVista’s top quality asset base, deep inventory, and management’s relentless focus on value maximization supports our medium-term plans for value-adding growth to the plateau level of 125,000 Boe/d. We will continue to closely monitor and adjust to the environment to maximize the value of our asset base and ensure the long-term sustainability of our business. We would like to thank our staff, contractors, and suppliers for their continued dedication and delivery, and we thank our Board of Directors and our shareholders for their continued guidance and support.

    The 2025 guidance does not include any potential impact of tariffs or trade-related regulations that have been announced by the U.S. and Canada, including the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canada effective March 4, 2025. See “Advisory regarding forward-looking information and statements”. Please note that our corporate presentation will be available at www.nuvistaenergy.com on March 5, 2025. NuVista’s audited financial statements, notes to the financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, will be filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) on March 5, 2025 and can also be obtained at www.nuvistaenergy.com.

                             
    FINANCIAL AND OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS
      Three months ended December 31 Year ended December 31
    ($ thousands, except otherwise stated) 2024 2023 % Change 2024 2023 % Change
    FINANCIAL            
    Petroleum and natural gas revenues 281,454   365,497   (23 ) 1,215,234   1,398,097   (13 )
    Cash provided by operating activities 135,831   211,761   (36 ) 600,253   721,342   (17 )
    Adjusted funds flow (3)(7) 137,059   201,987   (32 ) 552,196   756,943   (27 )
    Per share, basic (6) 0.67   0.95   (29 ) 2.68   3.50   (23 )
    Per share, diluted (6) 0.66   0.93   (29 ) 2.64   3.40   (22 )
    Net earnings 99,152   89,513   11   305,718   367,678   (17 )
    Per share, basic 0.48   0.42   14   1.48   1.70   (13 )
    Per share, diluted 0.48   0.41   17   1.46   1.65   (12 )
    Total assets       3,450,419   3,058,053   13  
    Net capital expenditures (1) 71,090   113,258   (37 ) 498,876   518,294   (4 )
    Net debt (3)       232,503   183,551   27  
    OPERATING            
    Daily Production            
    Natural gas (MMcf/d) 327.1   310.5   5   304.3   276.0   10  
    Condensate (Bbls/d) 22,657   26,889   (16 ) 24,709   24,633    
    NGLs (Bbls/d) 8,455   7,287   16   7,661   6,545   17  
    Total (Boe/d) 85,635   85,924     83,084   77,185   8  
    Condensate & NGLs weighting 36 % 40 %   39 % 40 %  
    Condensate weighting (8) 26 % 31 %   30 % 32 %  
    Average realized selling prices (5)            
    Natural gas ($/Mcf) 2.78   3.45   (19 ) 2.51   4.19   (40 )
    Condensate ($/Bbl) 83.58   99.20   (16 ) 94.83   100.02   (5 )
    NGLs ($/Bbl) (4) 30.38   32.46   (6 ) 27.86   31.80   (12 )
    Netbacks ($/Boe)            
    Petroleum and natural gas revenues (7) 35.72   46.24   (23 ) 39.96   49.62   (19 )
    Realized gain on financial derivatives 1.75   0.46   280   0.86   0.41   110  
    Other income 0.01       0.11      
    Royalties (7) (3.13 ) (4.50 ) (30 ) (4.30 ) (4.80 ) (10 )
    Transportation expense (4.57 ) (4.54 ) 1   (4.78 ) (4.77 )  
    Net operating expense (2) (11.07 ) (10.65 ) 4   (11.37 ) (11.40 )  
    Operating netback (2) 18.71   27.01   (31 ) 20.48   29.06   (30 )
    Corporate netback (2) 17.40   25.55   (32 ) 18.15   26.86   (32 )
    SHARE TRADING STATISTICS            
    High ($/share) 14.18   13.72   3   14.86   13.72   8  
    Low ($/share) 10.34   10.40   (1 ) 9.59   9.93   (3 )
    Close ($/share) 13.82   11.04   25   13.82   11.04   25  
    Common shares outstanding (thousands of shares)       203,701   207,584   (2 )
                       

    NOTES:

    (1) Non-GAAP financial measure that does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
    (2) Non-GAAP ratio that does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
    (3) Capital management measure. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
    (4) Natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) includes butane, propane and ethane revenue and sales volumes, and sulphur revenue.
    (5) Product prices exclude realized gains/losses on financial derivatives.
    (6) Supplementary financial measure. Reference should be made to the section entitled “Specified Financial Measures”.
    (7) Includes the impact of a facility allocation adjustment, which impacted condensate revenues, royalties and transportation expense, reducing adjusted funds flow by $23.1 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024.
    (8) Includes the impact of a facility allocation adjustment. Excluding this adjustment, NuVista’s condensate weighting for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was 28%.
       

    DETAILED SUMMARY OF CORPORATE RESERVES DATA

    The following table provides summary reserve information based upon the GLJ Report using the published 3 Consultants’ Average January 1, 2025 price forecast:

      Natural Gas(2)   Natural Gas
    Liquids(4)
      Oil(3)   Total  
    Reserves category(1)(5) Company
    Gross
      Company
    Gross
      Company
    Gross
      Company
    Gross
     
      (MMcf)   (MBbls)   (MBbls)   (MBoe)  
    Proved                
    Developed producing 680,168   63,913     177,275  
    Developed non‑producing 93,825   10,140     25,777  
    Undeveloped 938,058   86,693     243,036  
    Total proved 1,712,051   160,747     446,088  
    Total probable 1,313,477   114,729     333,642  
    Total proved plus probable 3,025,528   275,475     779,730  
                     

    NOTES:

    (1) Numbers may not add due to rounding.
    (2) Includes conventional natural gas and shale gas.
    (3) Includes light and medium crude oil.
    (4) NGLs includes ethane, propane, butane, condensate and pentane plus.
    (5) Reserves have been presented on gross basis which are the Company’s total working interest share before the deduction of any royalties and without including any royalty interests of the Company.
       

    The following table is a summary reconciliation of the year end working interest reserves for 2024, with the year end working interest reserves for 2023:

    Company Gross Natural Gas(1)(3)
    (MMcf)
    Natural Gas
    Liquids(1)(5)
    (MBbls)
    Oil(1)(4)
    (MBbls)
    Total Oil Equivalent(1)
    (MBoe)
    Total proved        
    Balance, December 31, 2023 1,546,471   144,132     401,877  
    Exploration and development(2) 234,672   24,335     63,447  
    Technical revisions 30,118   2,912   11   7,942  
    Acquisitions 18,123   1,720     4,741  
    Dispositions (156 ) (18 )   (44 )
    Economic Factors (5,809 ) (498 )   (1,466 )
    Production (111,368 ) (11,837 ) (11 ) (30,409 )
    Balance, December 31, 2024 1,712,051   160,747     446,088  
    Total proved plus probable        
    Balance, December 31, 2023 2,505,894   225,374     643,023  
    Exploration and development(2) 597,808   57,452     157,087  
    Technical revisions 12,434   2,496   11   4,579  
    Acquisitions 22,817   2,161     5,964  
    Dispositions (201 ) (22 )   (56 )
    Economic Factors (1,857 ) (148 )   (458 )
    Production (111,368 ) (11,837 ) (11 ) (30,409 )
    Balance, December 31, 2024 3,025,528   275,475     779,730  

    NOTES:

    (1) Numbers may not add due to rounding.
    (2) Reserve additions for drilling extensions, infill drilling and improved recovery.
    (3) Includes conventional natural gas and shale gas.
    (4) Includes light and medium crude oil.
    (5) NGLs includes ethane, propane, butane, condensate and pentane plus.
       

    The following table summarizes the future development capital required to bring undeveloped reserves and proved plus probable undeveloped reserves on production:

    ($ thousands, undiscounted) Proved
    Producing(1)
    Proved(1) Proved plus
    Probable(1)
     
    2025 10,000   270,190   283,615  
    2026   441,337   441,337  
    2027   378,915   378,915  
    2028   582,820   623,529  
    2029   210,425   385,690  
    Remaining     1,205,057  
    Total (undiscounted) 10,000   1,883,686   3,318,141  
                 

    NOTE:

    (1) Numbers may not add due to rounding.
       

    The following table outlines NuVista’s corporate finding, development and acquisition (“FD&A”) costs in more detail:

      3 Year-Average (1)   2024 (1)   2023 (1)  
        Proved plus       Proved plus       Proved plus  
      Proved   probable   Proved   probable   Proved   probable  
    Finding and development costs ($/Boe) $ 10.06   $ 8.69   $ 9.28   $ 7.18   $ 10.92   $ 12.59  
    Finding, development and acquisition costs ($/Boe) $ 9.95   $ 8.60   $ 8.79   $ 6.97   $ 11.12   $ 12.86  
                                         

    NOTE:

    (1) F&D costs and FD&A are used as a measure of capital efficiency. The calculation for F&D costs includes all exploration and development capital for that period as outlined in the Company’s year-end financial statements plus the change in future development capital for that period. This total capital including the change in the future development capital is then divided by the change in reserves for that period including revisions for that same period. The aggregate of the exploration and development costs incurred in the most recent financial year and the change during the year in estimated future development costs generally will not reflect total finding and development costs related to reserve additions for the year. FD&A costs are calculated in the same manner except in addition to exploration and development capital and the change in future development capital, acquisition capital (net of any disposition proceeds) is also included in the calculation.
       

    Summary of Corporate Net Present Value Data of Future Net Revenue

    The estimated net present values of future net revenue before income taxes associated with NuVista’s reserves effective December 31, 2024 and based on the published 3 Consultants’ Average price forecast as at January 1, 2025 as set forth below, are summarized in the following table:

      Before Income Taxes
      Discount Factor (%/year)
    Reserves category (1)(2) ($ thousands) 0%   5%   10%   15%   20%  
    Proved          
    Developed producing 3,311,450   2,531,022   2,038,337   1,715,462   1,491,640  
    Developed non‑producing 589,610   437,020   350,631   295,990   258,256  
    Undeveloped 4,450,580   2,705,801   1,798,236   1,270,234   934,810  
    Total proved 8,351,651   5,673,843   4,187,204   3,281,686   2,684,706  
    Probable 7,457,152   3,482,560   1,946,864   1,232,453   849,096  
    Total proved plus probable 15,808,803   9,156,404   6,134,068   4,514,138   3,533,801  
                         

    NOTES:

    (1) Numbers may not add due to rounding.
    (2) All future net revenues are stated prior to the provision for interest income and other general and administrative expenses and after deduction of royalties, operating costs, estimated well and facility abandonment and reclamation costs and estimated future capital expenditures.
    (3) The estimated future net revenue contained in this press release does not necessarily represent the fair market value of the reserves.
       

    The following table is a summary of pricing and inflation rate assumptions based on published 3 Consultants’ Average forecast prices and costs as at January 1, 2025:

    Year   AECO Gas
    ($Cdn/
    MMBtu)
      NYMEX
    Gas
    ($US/
    MMBtu)
      Midwest
    Gas at
    Chicago
    ($US/
    MMBtu)
      Edmonton
    C5+
    ($Cdn/Bbl)
      Edmonton
    Propane
    ($Cdn/Bbl)
      Edmonton
    Butane
    ($Cdn/Bbl)
      WTI
    Cushing
    Oklahoma
    ($US/Bbl)
      Edmonton
    Par Price
    40 API
    ($Cdn/Bbl)
      Exchange
    Rate(2)
    ($US/$Cdn)
     
    Forecast                                      
    2025   2.36   3.31   3.05   100.14   33.56   51.15   71.58   94.79   0.712  
    2026   3.33   3.73   3.53   100.72   32.78   49.98   74.48   97.04   0.728  
    2027   3.48   3.85   3.66   100.24   32.81   50.16   75.81   97.37   0.743  
    2028   3.69   3.93   3.73   102.73   33.63   51.41   77.66   99.80   0.743  
    2029   3.76   4.01   3.82   104.79   34.30   52.44   79.22   101.79   0.743  
    2030   3.83   4.09   3.89   106.86   34.99   53.49   80.80   103.83   0.743  
    2031   3.91   4.17   3.97   109.00   35.69   54.56   82.42   105.91   0.743  
    2032   3.99   4.26   4.05   111.19   36.40   55.65   84.06   108.02   0.743  
    2033   4.07   4.34   4.13   113.41   37.13   56.76   85.75   110.19   0.743  
    2034   4.15   4.43   4.21   115.69   37.87   57.90   87.46   112.39   0.743  
    2035   4.24   4.52   4.30   118.01   38.63   59.05   89.21   114.64   0.743  
    2036   4.32   4.61   4.39   120.37   39.40   60.24   90.99   116.93   0.743  
    2037   4.41   4.70   4.48   122.77   40.19   61.44   92.82   119.27   0.743  
    2038   4.49   4.79   4.56   125.23   41.00   62.67   94.67   121.65   0.743  
    2039   4.58   4.89   4.65   127.73   41.82   63.92   96.57   124.09   0.743  
    2040+   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   +2.0%/yr   0.743  
                                           

    NOTES:

    (1) Costs were not inflated in 2025 and inflated at 2% per annum thereafter.
    (2) Exchange rate used to generate the benchmark reference prices in this table.
    (3) NuVista’s future realized gas prices are forecasted based on a combination of various benchmark prices in addition to the AECO benchmark in order to reflect the favorable price diversification to other markets which NuVista has undertaken. Pricing at these markets has been accounted for in the GLJ Report. Additional information on NuVista’s gas marketing diversification will be available in our corporate presentation.
       

    Advisories Regarding Oil and Gas Information

    The reserve data provided in this press release presents only a portion of the disclosure required under National Instrument 51-101. All required information will be contained in the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

    There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of crude oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and the future cash flows attributed to such reserves. The reserve and associated cash flow information set forth above are estimates only. In general, estimates of economically recoverable crude oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and the future net cash flows therefrom are based upon a number of variable factors and assumptions, such as historical production from the properties, production rates, ultimate reserve recovery, timing and amount of capital expenditures, marketability of oil and natural gas, royalty rates, the assumed effects of regulation by governmental agencies and future operating costs, all of which may vary materially. For these reasons, estimates of the economically recoverable crude oil, NGL and natural gas reserves attributable to any particular group of properties, classification of such reserves based on risk of recovery and estimates of future net revenues associated with reserves prepared by different engineers, or by the same engineers at different times, may vary. The Company’s actual production, revenues, taxes and development and operating expenditures with respect to its reserves will vary from estimates thereof and such variations could be material.

    BOEs may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 Bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

    This press release contains a number of oil and gas metrics prepared by management, including F&D costs, FD&A costs, PDP per share, TP+PA per share, recycle ratio, operating netback, corporate netback and reserves replacement costs, which do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Such metrics have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate NuVista’s performance on a comparable basis with prior periods; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of NuVista, and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods. Details of how F&D costs, FD&A costs, operating netback, corporate netback and recycle ratios are calculated are set forth under the heading “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures – Non-GAAP Ratios”. Reserves replacement is calculated as the reserves category divided by estimated production.

    Any references in this press 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. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for NuVista.

    Any reference to capital efficiency has been prepared by management and is used to measure performance. NuVista calculates capital efficiency as the sum of the capital expenditures divided by average first year production rate for the applicable well(s). This term does not have a standardized meaning or standard calculation and is not comparable to similar measures used by other entities.

    This press release discloses NuVista’s potential drilling locations in two categories: (i) undeveloped proved plus probable (TP+PA) drilling locations; and (ii) undeveloped contingent resources (2C) drilling locations. Undeveloped TP+PA drilling locations are derived the GLJ Report, and account for undeveloped drilling locations that have associated proved and/or probable reserves, as applicable. Undeveloped 2C drilling locations are derived from a report prepared by GLJ evaluating NuVista’s contingent resources as of December 31, 2024 (“GLJ Contingent Resource Report”), and account for undeveloped drilling locations that have associated contingent resources based on a best estimate of such contingent resources. There is no certainty that we will drill all drilling locations and if drilled, there is no certainty that such locations will result in additional oil and gas production. The drilling locations on which we actually drill wells will ultimately depend upon the availability of capital, regulatory approvals, seasonal restrictions, oil and natural gas prices, costs, actual drilling results, additional reservoir information that is obtained and other factors. 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. Economic contingent resources are those contingent resources that are currently economically recoverable. The sub-classes included under economic contingent resources are Development Pending CR, Development on Hold CR, and Development Unclarified CR. Development Pending are resources where resolution of the final conditions for development is being actively pursued (high chance of development). Development on Hold are resources where there is a reasonable chance of development but there are major non-technical contingencies to be resolved that are usually beyond the control of the operator. Development Unclarified are resources where the evaluation is incomplete and there is ongoing activity to resolve any risks or uncertainties. Development Not Viable are resources that are not viable in the conditions prevailing at the effective date of the evaluation, and where no further data acquisition or evaluation is currently planned and hence there is a low chance of development. In the case of the contingent resources estimated in the GLJ Contingent Resource Report, contingencies include: (i) further delineation of interest lands; (ii) corporate commitment, and; (iii) final development plan. To further delineate interest lands additional wells must be drilled and tested to demonstrate commercial rates on the resource lands. Reserves are only assigned in close proximity to demonstrated productivity. As continued delineation drilling occurs, a portion of the contingent resources are expected to be reclassified as reserves. Confirmation of corporate intent to proceed with remaining capital expenditures within a reasonable timeframe is a requirement for the assessment of reserves. Finalization of a development plan includes timing, infrastructure spending and the commitment of capital.

    Definitions of Oil and Gas Reserves

    Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of crude oil and 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 classified according to the degree of certainty associated with the estimates as follows:

    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.

    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.

    PDP or Proved 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.

    Basis of presentation

    Unless otherwise noted, the financial data presented in this press release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) also known as International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).

    Natural gas liquids are defined by National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities” to include ethane, butane, propane, pentanes plus and condensate. Unless explicitly stated in this press release, references to “NGL” refers only to ethane, butane and propane and references to “condensate” refers to only to condensate and pentanes plus. NuVista has disclosed condensate and pentanes plus values separately from ethane, butane and propane values as NuVista believes it provides a more accurate description of NuVista’s operations and results therefrom.

    Production split for Boe/d amounts referenced in the press release are as follows:

    Reference Total Boe/d
    Natural Gas
    %
    Condensate
    %
    NGLs
    %
               
    Q4 2024 production – actual 85,635   64 % 26 % 10 %
    Q4 2024 production – guidance 83,000 – 84,000   61 % 30 % 9 %
    2024 annual production – actual 83,084   61 % 30 % 9 %
    2024 annual production – guidance 83,500 – 86,000   61 % 30 % 9 %
    Q1 2025 production – guidance 87,000 – 88,000   63 % 28 % 9 %
    2025 annual production – guidance ~90,000   61 % 30 % 9 %
                     

    Reserves advisories

    The GLJ Report was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (“COGE Handbook”) and is dated effective as of December 31, 2024. The GLJ Report was based on 3 Consultants’ Average January 1, 2025 forecast pricing and foreign exchange rates at January 1, 2025. All reserves information has been presented on a gross basis, which is the Company’s working interest share before deduction of royalties and without including any royalty interests of the Company. The reserves have been categorized accordance with the reserves definitions as set out in the COGE Handbook. The recovery and reserve estimates contained herein are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves will be recovered. Also, estimates of reserves and future net revenue for individual properties may not reflect the same confidence level as estimates and future net revenue for all properties due to the effect of aggregation. All required reserve information for the Company will be contained in its Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which will be accessible at www.sedarplus.ca.

    With respect to disclosure contained herein regarding resources other than reserves, there is uncertainty that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the resources and there is significant uncertainty regarding the ultimate recoverability of such resources.

    Advisory regarding forward-looking information and statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words “will”, “expects”, “believe”, “plans”, “potential” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward looking statements, including but not limited to:

    • our intention to allocate $100 million to repurchase our common shares in 2025, with at least 75% of any incremental free adjusted funds flow also allocated to the repurchase of our common share pursuant to our NCIB;
    • that our soft ceiling net debt will allow our current production levels to be sustainable and maintain an adjusted funds flow ratio below 1.0x in a stress test price environment of US$45/Bbl WTI and US$2.00/MMBtu NYMEX;
    • NuVista’s ability to continue directing free adjusted funds flow towards a prudent balance of return of capital to shareholders and debt reduction, while investing in high return growth projects;
    • the anticipated allocation of free adjusted funds flow;
    • our expectation that our capital efficiency will continue to be strong in 2025, allowing us to realize a well cost reduction of 3% year-over-year;
    • our expectation that a 5-well pad in Elmworth, a 4-well pad in Gold Creek, and a 14-well pad in Pipestone will be brought on-stream during the second quarter;
    • our expectation that an 8-welll pad in Pipestone will be brought on-stream in the third quarter;
    • our expectations regarding the consistency in deliverability of inventory in the Elmworth and Gold Creek areas;
    • guidance with respect to first quarter 2025 production and production mix;
    • our expectation that growth in 2025 will be largely supported by the Pipestone area;
    • the expected timing of start-up of a third-party gas plant in the Pipestone area and the anticipated benefits thereof;
    • our 2025 full year production, full year production mix and capital expenditures guidance ranges;
    • our plan to continue to maintain an efficient drilling program by employing 2-drill-rig execution;
    • our expectation that our value-adding growth plateau level will be approximately 125,000 Boe/d;
    • our future focus, strategy, plans, opportunities and operations; and
    • other such similar statements.

    Statements relating to “reserves” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves can be profitably produced in the future.

    The future acquisition of our common shares pursuant to a share buyback (including through our normal course issuer bid), if any, and the level thereof is uncertain. Any decision to acquire common shares pursuant to a share buyback will be subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors and may depend on a variety of factors, including, without limitation, the Company’s business performance, financial condition, financial requirements, growth plans, expected capital requirements and other conditions existing at such future time including, without limitation, contractual restrictions and satisfaction of the solvency tests imposed on the Company under applicable corporate law. There can be no assurance of the number of common shares that the Company will acquire pursuant to a share buyback, if any, in the future.

    By their nature, forward-looking statements are based upon certain assumptions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond NuVista’s control, including the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, current and future commodity prices and inflation rates; that other than the tariffs that have been announced and implemented by the U.S. and Canadian governments on March 4, 2025, neither the U.S. nor Canada (i) increases the rate or scope of such tariffs, or imposes new tariffs, on the import of goods from one country to the other, and/or (ii) imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, the impact of ongoing global events, including Middle East and European tensions, with respect to commodity prices, currency and interest rates, anticipated production rates, borrowing, operating and other costs and adjusted funds flow; the timing, allocation and amount of capital expenditures and the results therefrom; anticipated reserves and the imprecision of reserve estimates; the performance of existing wells; the success obtained in drilling new wells; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; access to infrastructure and markets; competition from other industry participants; availability of qualified personnel or services and drilling and related equipment; stock market volatility; effects of regulation by governmental agencies including changes in environmental regulations, tax laws and royalties; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal sources and bank and equity markets; that we will be able to execute our 2025 drilling plans as expected; our ability to carry out our 2025 production and capital guidance as expected; the risk that (i) the U.S. or Canadian governments increases the rate or scope of the currently implemented tariffs, or imposes new tariffs on the import of goods from on the import or export of products from one country to the other, and (ii) the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on other countries and responses thereto could have a material adverse effect on the Canadian, U.S. and global economies, and by extension the oil and gas industry; and including, without limitation, those risks considered under “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form.

    Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. NuVista’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements, or if any of them do so, what benefits NuVista will derive therefrom. NuVista has included the forward-looking statements in this press release in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on NuVista’s future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. NuVista disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    This press release also contains financial outlook and future oriented financial information (together, “FOFI”) relating to NuVista including, without limitation, capital expenditures in 2025 and production which are based on, among other things, the various assumptions disclosed in this press release including under “Advisory regarding forward-looking information and statements” and including assumptions regarding benchmark pricing as it relates to the 2025 capital allocation framework. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the FOFI contained in this press release does not include the potential impact of tariff or trade-related regulation that have been announced by the U.S. and Canada, including the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canada effective March 4, 2025. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and the impact of the tariffs on NuVista’s business operations and financial condition, while currently unknown, may be material and adverse and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on FOFI. NuVista’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these FOFI, or if any of them do so, what benefits NuVista will derive therefrom. NuVista has included the FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on NuVista’s future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    These forward-looking statements and FOFI are made as of the date of this press release and NuVista disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements and FOFI, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities law.

    Non-GAAP and other financial measures

    This press release uses various specified financial measures (as such terms are defined in National Instrument 52-112 – Non-GAAP Disclosure and Other Financial Measures Disclosure (“NI 51-112”)) including “non-GAAP financial measures”, “non-GAAP ratios”, “capital management measures” and “supplementary financial measures” (as such terms are defined in NI 51-112), which are described in further detail below. Management believes that the presentation of these non-GAAP measures provides useful information to investors and shareholders as the measures provide increased transparency and the ability to better analyze performance against prior periods on a comparable basis.

    (1) Non-GAAP financial measures

    NI 52-112 defines a non-GAAP financial measure as a financial measure that: (i) depicts the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity; (ii) with respect to its composition, excludes an amount that is included in, or includes an amount that is excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation.

    These non-GAAP financial measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS Accounting Standards and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable GAAP measures as indicators of NuVista’s performance. Set forth below are descriptions of the non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release.

    • Free adjusted funds flow

    Free adjusted funds flow is adjusted funds flow less net capital expenditures, power generation expenditures, and asset retirement expenditures. Each of the components of free adjusted funds flow are non-GAAP financial measures. Please refer to disclosures under the headings “Capital management measures” and “Capital expenditures” for a description of each component of free adjusted funds flow. Management uses free adjusted funds flow as a measure of the efficiency and liquidity of its business, measuring its funds available for additional capital allocation to manage debt levels and return capital to shareholders through its NCIB program and/or dividend payments. By removing the impact of current period net capital and asset retirement expenditures, management believes this measure provides an indication of the funds NuVista has available for future capital allocation decisions.

    The following table sets out our free adjusted funds flow compared to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of cash provided by operating activities less cash used in investing activities for the applicable periods:

      Three months ended December 31 Year ended December 31
    ($ thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023
    Cash provided by operating activities 135,831   211,761   600,253   721,342  
    Cash used in investing activities (71,090 ) (132,646 ) (499,579 ) (531,586 )
    Excess (deficit) cash provided by operating activities over cash used in investing activities 64,741   79,115   100,674   189,756  
             
    Adjusted funds flow 137,059   201,987   552,196   756,943  
    Net capital expenditures (71,090 ) (113,258 ) (498,876 ) (518,294 )
    Power generation expenditures   (16,904 ) (1,680 ) (16,904 )
    Asset retirement expenditures (3,551 ) (1,208 ) (12,029 ) (11,195 )
    Free adjusted funds flow 62,418   70,617   39,611   210,550  
                     
    • Capital expenditures

    Capital expenditures are equal to cash used in investing activities, excluding changes in non-cash working capital, other asset expenditures, power generation expenditures, proceeds on property dispositions and costs of acquisitions. NuVista considers capital expenditures to represent its organic capital program and a useful measure of cash flow used for capital reinvestment.

    The following table provides a reconciliation between the non-GAAP measure of capital expenditures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of cash used in investing activities for the applicable periods:

      Three months ended December 31 Year ended December 31
    ($ thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023
    Cash used in investing activities (71,090 ) (132,646 ) (499,579 ) (531,586 )
    Changes in non-cash working capital   2,484   (977 ) (13,112 )
    Other asset expenditures       9,500  
    Power generation expenditures   16,904   1,680   16,904  
    Property acquisition   44,000     44,000  
    Proceeds on property disposition       (26,000 )
    Capital expenditures (71,090 ) (69,258 ) (498,876 ) (500,294 )
                     
    • Net capital expenditures

    Net capital expenditures are equal to cash used in investing activities, excluding changes in non-cash working capital, other asset expenditures, and power generation expenditures. The Company includes funds used for property acquisitions or proceeds from property dispositions within net capital expenditures as these transactions are part of its development plans. NuVista considers net capital expenditures to represent its organic capital program inclusive of capital spending for acquisition and disposition proposes and a useful measure of cash flow used for capital reinvestment.

    The following table provides a reconciliation between the non-GAAP measure of net capital expenditures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of cash used in investing activities for the applicable periods:

      Three months ended December 31 Year ended December 31
    ($ thousands) 2024  2023  2024  2023 
    Cash used in investing activities (71,090 ) (132,646 ) (499,579 ) (531,586 )
    Changes in non-cash working capital   2,484   (977 ) (13,112 )
    Other asset expenditures       9,500  
    Power generation expenditures   16,904   1,680   16,904  
    Net capital expenditures (71,090 ) (113,258 ) (498,876 ) (518,294 )
                     

    The following table provides a breakdown of capital expenditures, net capital expenditures and power generation expenditures by category for the applicable periods:

      Three months ended December 31   Year ended December 31  
    ($ thousands, except % amounts) 2024   % of total   2023   % of total   2024   % of total   2023   % of total  
    Land and retention costs     15     6,968   1   7,507   2  
    Geological and geophysical 38     249     1,164     691    
    Drilling and completion 43,915   62   51,413   74   353,583   72   392,663   78  
    Facilities and equipment 25,508   36   16,193   24   130,628   26   93,252   19  
    Corporate and other 1,629   2   1,388   2   6,533   1   6,181   1  
    Capital expenditures 71,090       69,258       498,876       500,294      
    Property acquisitions       44,000             44,000      
    Proceeds on property disposition                   (26,000 )    
    Net capital expenditures 71,090       113,258       498,876       518,294      
    Power generation expenditures       16,904       1,680       16,904      
                                     
    • Net operating expense

    NuVista considers that any incremental gross costs incurred to process third party volumes at its facilities are offset by the applicable fees charged to such third parties. However, under IFRS Accounting Standards, NuVista is required to reflect operating costs and processing fee income separately on its statements of earnings. Management believes that net operating expense, calculated as gross operating expense less processing income and other recoveries, is a meaningful measure for investors to understand the net impact of NuVista’s operating activities.

    The following table sets out net operating expense compared to the most directly comparable GAAP measure of operating expenses for the applicable periods:

      Three months ended December 31   Year ended December 31  
    ($ thousands) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Operating expense 88,891   85,207   354,253   324,196  
    Other income (1) (1,646 ) (1,038 ) (8,605 ) (3,058 )
    Net operating expense 87,245   84,169   345,648   321,138  

     

    (1) Processing income and other recoveries, included within Other Income as presented in the table below:
       
      Three months ended December 31   Year ended December 31  
    ($ thousands) 2024   2023   2024   2023  
    Other income 57     3,235    
    Processing income and other recoveries 1,646   1,038   8,605   3,058  
    Other Income 1,703   1,038   11,840   3,058  
                     

    (2) Non-GAAP ratios

    NI 52-112 defines a non-GAAP ratio as a financial measure that: (i) is in the form of a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation; (ii) has a non-GAAP financial measure as one or more of its components; and (iii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity. Set forth below is a description of the non-GAAP ratios used in this MD&A.

    These non-GAAP ratios are not standardized financial measures under IFRS Accounting Standards and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. Investors are cautioned that these ratios should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable IFRS Accounting Standards measures as indicators of NuVista’s performance.

    Per Boe disclosures for petroleum and natural gas revenues, realized gains/losses on financial derivatives, royalties, transportation expense, G&A expense, financing costs, and DD&A expense are non-GAAP ratios that are calculated by dividing each of these respective GAAP measures by NuVista’s total production volumes for the period.

    Non-GAAP ratios presented on a “per Boe” basis may also be considered to be supplementary financial measures (as such term is defined in NI 51-112).

    • Operating netback and corporate netback (“netbacks”), per BoeNuVista calculated netbacks per Boe by dividing the netbacks by total production volumes sold in the period. Each of operating netback and corporate netback are non-GAAP financial measures. Operating netback is calculated as petroleum and natural gas revenues, realized financial derivative gains/losses and other income, less royalties, transportation expense and net operating expense. Corporate netback is operating netback less general and administrative expense, cash share-based compensation expense (recovery), financing costs excluding accretion expense, and current income tax expense (recovery).

      Management believes both operating and corporate netbacks are key industry benchmarks and measures of operating performance for NuVista that assists management and investors in assessing NuVista’s profitability, and are commonly used by other petroleum and natural gas producers. The measurement on a Boe basis assists management and investors with evaluating NuVista’s operating performance on a comparable basis.

    • Net operating expense, per BoeNuVista calculated net operating expense per Boe by dividing net operating expense by NuVista’s production volumes for the period.

      Management believes that net operating expense, calculated as gross operating expense less processing income and other recoveries, which are included in NuVista’s statements of earnings, is a meaningful measure for investors to understand the net impact of the Company’s operating activities. The measurement on a Boe basis assists management and investors with evaluating NuVista’s operating performance on a comparable basis.

    Reference has been also been made to certain terms that do not have standardized meanings or standard calculations and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other entities. These terms are used by NuVista’s management to measure the success of replacing reserves and to compare operating performance to previous periods on a comparable basis.

    • F&D costsNuVista calculated F&D costs as the sum of development costs plus the change in future development costs (“FDC”) for the period when appropriate, divided by the change in reserves within the applicable reserves category, excluding those reserves acquired or disposed.

      NuVista calculated TP+PA 3-year average F&D costs as the sum of development costs plus the sum of the change in FDC over the last three completed financial years, divided by the sum of the change in the total proved and probable reserves over the last three completed financial years.

    • FD&A costsNuVista calculated FD&A costs are calculated as the sum of development costs plus acquisition costs net of disposition proceeds plus the change in FDC for the period when appropriate, divided by the change in reserves within the applicable reserves category, inclusive of changes due to acquisitions and dispositions.
    • Recycle RatioNuVista calculates recycle ratio as the operating netback divided by F&D costs for the applicable period.

    (3) Capital management measures

    NI 52-112 defines a capital management measure as a financial measure that: (i) is intended to enable an individual to evaluate an entity’s objectives, policies and processes for managing the entity’s capital; (ii) is not a component of a line item disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity.

    NuVista has defined net debt, adjusted funds flow, and net debt to annualized fourth quarter adjusted funds flow ratio as capital management measures used by the Company in this press release.

    • Adjusted funds flow

    NuVista considers adjusted funds flow to be a key measure that provides a more complete understanding of the NuVista considers adjusted funds flow to be a key measure that provides a more comprehensive view of the company’s ability to generate cash flow necessary for financing capital expenditures, meeting asset retirement obligations, and fulfilling its financial commitments. Adjusted funds flow is calculated by adjusting cash flow from operating activities to exclude changes in non-cash working capital and asset retirement expenditures. Management believes these elements are subject to timing variations in collection, payment, and occurrence. By excluding them, management is able to provide a more meaningful performance measure of NuVista’s ongoing operations. Specifically, expenditures on asset retirement obligations may fluctuate depending on the company’s capital programs and the maturity of its operating areas, while environmental remediation recovery is tied to an infrequent incident that management does not expect to recur regularly. The settlement of asset retirement obligations is managed through NuVista’s capital budgeting process, which incorporates the available adjusted funds flow.

    A reconciliation of adjusted funds flow is presented in the following table:

      2024 2023
    Cash provided by operating activities $ 600,253   $ 721,342  
    Asset retirement expenditures   12,029     11,195  
    Change in non-cash working capital   (60,086 )   24,406  
    Adjusted funds flow $ 552,196   $ 756,943  
                 

    Net debt is used by management to provide a more comprehensive understanding of NuVista’s capital structure and to assess the company’s liquidity. NuVista calculates net debt by considering accounts receivable, prepaid expenses, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, long-term debt (the Credit Facility), senior unsecured notes, and other liabilities. Management uses total market capitalization and the ratio of net debt to annualized adjusted funds flow for the current quarter to analyze balance sheet strength and liquidity.

    The following is a summary of total market capitalization, net debt, annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow, and net debt to annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow:

      2024 2023
    Basic common shares outstanding (thousands of shares)   203,701     207,584  
    Share price $ 13.82   $ 11.04  
    Total market capitalization $ 2,815,148   $ 2,291,727  
    Accounts receivable and other   (132,538 )   (139,451 )
    Prepaid expenses   (45,584 )   (45,241 )
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   206,862     157,711  
    Current portion of other liabilities   18,451     14,082  
    Long-term debt   5,353     16,897  
    Senior unsecured notes   163,258     162,195  
    Other liabilities   16,701     17,358  
    Net debt $ 232,503   $ 183,551  
    Annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow $ 548,236   $ 807,948  
    Net debt to annualized current quarter adjusted funds flow   0.4     0.2  
    Adjusted funds flow $ 552,196   $ 756,943  
    Net debt to adjusted funds flow   0.4     0.2  
                 

    (4) Supplementary financial measures

    This press release may contain certain supplementary financial measures. NI 52-112 defines a supplementary financial measure as a financial measure that: (i) is intended to be disclosed on a periodic basis to depict the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity; (ii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity; (iii) is not a non-GAAP financial measure; and (iv) is not a non-GAAP ratio.

    NuVista calculates: (i) “adjusted funds flow per share” by dividing adjusted funds flow for a period by the number of weighted average common shares of NuVista for the specified period; (ii) “operating netback per share” by dividing operating netback for a period by the number of weighted average common shares of NuVista for the specified period; (iii) “corporate netback per share” by dividing operating netback for a period by the number of weighted average common shares of NuVista for the specified period; (iv) “net debt to adjusted funds flow” by dividing the net debt at the end of a period by the adjusted funds flow for such period; and (v) “net present value per share” is the net present value (discounted at 10%) in the reserve category divided by the basic common shares outstanding at the end of the period.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

    Mike J. Lawford Ivan J. Condic
    President and CEO VP, Finance and CFO
    (403) 538-1936 (403) 538-1945
       

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat Receives $6 Million Defense Contract to Provide Military Communications Solutions in Asia-Pacific

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, today announced its Defense Division secured an order valued at $6 million to provide the SkyEdge II-c platform to a military organization in the Asia-Pacific region. The advanced satellite communications solution will support both fixed and mobility sites, ensuring secure and reliable connectivity for critical defense operations with enhanced air interface cyber security. Delivery is expected over the next 3 months.

    Gilat’s SkyEdge II-c platform is designed to meet the demanding requirements of military communications, providing high resilience, efficiency, and robust security for mission-critical applications. This contract underscores the confidence in Gilat’s field-proven technology and the company’s long-standing expertise in delivering advanced satellite solutions for defense organizations worldwide.

    “We continue expanding our operations in the defense market both in and out of the US and are proud to support the growing needs of military forces in the Asia-Pacific region with our state-of-the-art satellite communications technology,” said Gilad Landsberg, President of Gilat Defense. “This contract reaffirms our position as a trusted provider of secure and resilient SATCOM solutions, enabling seamless operations across diverse and challenging environments.”

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we develop and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground, and new space connectivity, offering next-generation solutions and services for critical connectivity across commercial and defense applications. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Together with our wholly owned subsidiaries—Gilat Wavestream, Gilat DataPath, and Gilat Stellar Blu—we offer integrated, high-value solutions supporting multi-orbit constellations, Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS), and Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) via our Commercial and Defense Divisions. Our comprehensive portfolio is comprised of a cloud-based platform and modems; high-performance satellite terminals; advanced Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas and ESAs; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense markets, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s products and tailored solutions support multiple applications including government and defense, IFC and mobility, broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, aerospace, broadcast, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: http://www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to the terrorist attacks by Hamas, and the hostilities between Israel and Hamas and Israel and Hezbollah. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks

    Hagay Katz, Chief Product and Marketing Officer

    hagayk@gilat.com

    Alliance Advisors:

    GilatIR@allianceadvisors.com
    Phone: +1 212 838 3777

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Strategic Initiatives, Private Investment Fuel Tanzania’s Lithium Market

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

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Tanzania is strengthening its position in the global lithium market, driven by a combination of government initiatives and active participation from international exploration and production companies.

    The country has witnessed a surge in investment since implementing a 2023 ban on the export of raw lithium, enacted to encourage downstream investments, with a strong pipeline of projects underway.

    Strategic Programs Entice Investment

    The Tanzanian government has launched several strategic programs to attract new investments across both the lithium and broader critical minerals sector. In late 2024, the country introduced the Tanzania Critical and Strategic Mineral Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/3F6lt7P). Currently in the stakeholder consultation phase, the initiative aims to optimize the management of key resources such as lithium by facilitating exploration, mining and local beneficiation and strengthening supply chain management.

    Additionally, in October 2024, the Geological Survey of Tanzania announced a 73 billion TZS High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey (https://apo-opa.co/4knbVFx) – a nationwide initiative designed to map the country’s mineral resources, including lithium. With less than 20% of the country surveyed to date, the program aims to map up to 50% of Tanzania’s market by 2030, supporting investments and exploration projects.

    In September 2024, Tanzania partnered with the Minerals Security Partnership (https://apo-opa.co/4knbWcz), a coalition of 14 Western countries and the European Commission, to increase access to financing, share technical expertise and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals such as lithium and graphite. These strategic programs are expected to support new investments across the lithium value chain.

    Private Sector-Driven Growth

    Private sector participation is also gaining momentum, with several international mining companies investing in Tanzanian lithium exploration and production projects. In July 2024, Australian firm AustChina (https://apo-opa.co/41pa7D9) completed exploration on four high-priority lithium targets at its Chenene Project, confirming high-grade lithium deposits. In April 2024, Dubai-based Titanium Lithium identified lithium-bearing minerals – including lepidolite, spodumene and hectorite – at its Titan 1 and Titan 2 projects. U.S.-based CGrowth Capital (https://apo-opa.co/3DuqqXn) also discovered lithium deposits during a field mapping exercise in Tanzania’s Dodoma Region.

    Amid these developments, the upcoming African Mining Week will connect Tanzanian lithium projects and developers with potential investment partners. The event will spotlight opportunities across Tanzania and Africa’s entire lithium value chain, fostering collaboration and highlighting investment prospects.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference (https://AECWeek.com/) from October 1 -3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon adds new partners Singtel, Skylo to worldwide IoT platform

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon adds new partners Singtel, Skylo to worldwide IoT platform

    What you need to know:

    • Singtel joins Bell Canada and Telenor IoT as Mobile Network Operator (MNO) partners providing international IoT connectivity through Verizon’s Global IoT Orchestration offering, which is now commercially available.
    • Skylo is powering satellite-IoT connectivity and services for network assurance in areas where terrestrial connectivity is challenged.
    • Verizon Business IoT customers can now access wireless services in up to 200 territories around the world, conveniently managed through Verizon Business’ ThingSpace IoT management platform.

    NEW YORK – Verizon Business has added IoT connectivity services from two new partners — Singapore-based operator Singtel and satellite service provider Skylo — to its suite of global IoT offerings. Verizon Business IoT customers can now access wireless services in up to 200 territories worldwide using complementary satellite, roaming, and native eSIM services from Verizon and its partners, all conveniently managed through the Verizon ThingSpace IoT management portal.

    Singapore-based communications technology group Singtel is the latest to partner with Verizon Business for its Global IoT Orchestration service, which allows Verizon Business customers to activate devices internationally using partner-MNO networks and services. Singtel will be a key partner supporting customers with the deployment of IoT connectivity in the Asia Pacific region. Global IoT Orchestration is now commercially available, offering international connectivity services from Singtel and previously announced collaborators Bell Canada and Telenor IoT.

    In the United States, Verizon will be positioned to offer IoT connectivity from satellite service provider Skylo, extending domestic network coverage to areas where cellular connectivity may be challenged. Coverage availability is expected to expand internationally in the future.

    Global IoT Orchestration is integrated in the Verizon ThingSpace IoT management platform, through which IoT connectivity and services in all territories — domestic and international — can be managed centrally on a single pane of glass using a seamless API interface or web portal. With Global IoT Orchestration, Verizon customers can activate devices in international regions using eSIM profiles from Verizon’s international carrier partners. In supported markets, customers can operate their devices just like a local network subscriber in that territory, with all the advantages of local connectivity.

    Global IoT Orchestration is available to U.S.-based customers activating IoT devices internationally. Contact Verizon Business here to learn more.

    Executive Statements

    “Our IoT services and platforms are designed to meet our customers’ needs wherever they do business, which is all around the world. We’re thrilled to see Global IoT Orchestration in-market now and satellite-enhanced IoT coverage in the U.S. to be available nearterm, enabling worldwide connectivity for our customers from the best partners in the industry,” said Shamik Basu, Vice President, Strategic Connectivity, Verizon Business. “We’re proud to offer an IoT capability that’s expansive, mobile, and conveniently managed through Verizon ThingSpace.”

    “Singtel is excited to support Verizon’s customers with our multi-domestic network offerings, so they can seamlessly manage their enterprise IoT applications and critical operational data, securely and in real time across the Asia Pacific region. Just as their customers can gain valuable insights from the diverse markets in this region, this partnership will pave the way for us to provide enhanced coverage for our customers in North America, facilitating increased customer reach, innovation and development in various industries across the world for all our stakeholders,” said Mr Lee Kwang Yong, Vice President, Enterprise Products, Singtel Singapore.

    “Skylo is honored to deepen our commercial relationship with Verizon for Industrial and Enterprise IoT Solutions. The Verizon ThingSpace platform is world renowned for managing and orchestrating IoT devices, and Skylo NTN allows customers to ensure that they and their devices are always connected and never lose coverage,” said Tarun Gupta, Chief Product Officer and co-founder of Skylo.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital announces incident of patient care assistant suspected to have been indecently assaulted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital announces incident of patient care assistant suspected to have been indecently assaulted
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:     The spokesman for Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital (AHNH) made the following statement today (March 5) regarding an incident of a patient care assistant suspected to have been indecently assaulted:     A patient care assistant (PCA) was suspected to have been indecently assaulted while performing care procedures for a 73-year-old male patient in a medical ward yesterday afternoon (March 4). Upon receiving the report from the PCA, the hospital reported the incident to the Police immediately. A man was subsequently arrested by the Police in the ward.     AHNH is highly concerned about the incident. The hospital strongly condemns the suspected indecent acts against its staff, resolutely adopts a zero-tolerance attitude towards this incident, and will follow up seriously while fully co-operating with the Police’s investigation. The hospital has expressed sympathy and provided support to the PCA concerned.     The hospital has reported the incident to the Hospital Authority Head Office via the Advance Incident Reporting System.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 16:10

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE attends opening meeting of NPC annual session in Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CE attends opening meeting of NPC annual session in Beijing (with photos)
    *************************************************************************

    ​The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (March 5) attended the opening meeting of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC).               The third session of the 14th NPC commenced in Beijing this morning, during which Premier Li Qiang delivered the government work report. Mr Lee attended the opening meeting in his capacity as the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).              In the government work report, Premier Li reviewed the work for 2024. He also outlined the overall requirements for economic and social development and major tasks of the government for 2025. He said that we should continue to fully, faithfully and resolutely implement the principles of “one country, two systems”, “Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong” and a high degree of autonomy in the HKSAR, while maintaining the constitutional order in the HKSAR as stipulated in the Constitution and the Basic Law and implementing the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong”. Premier Li expressed support for Hong Kong in strengthening economy development and improving people’s livelihood, deepening international exchanges and co-operation, with a view to better integrating into the overall national development and maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. He also highlighted the need to enhance the innovation capabilities and influence of economically advantaged areas, including the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).           Mr Lee said he was most encouraged, adding that this year marks the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and the beginning of the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan. It is also a crucial year for further deepening comprehensive reforms, which are of significant importance for the implementation of “one country, two systems”. The HKSAR Government will continue to fully, faithfully and resolutely implement the principles of “one country, two systems”, “Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong” and a high degree of autonomy. It will unite all sectors of society to further deepen comprehensive reforms, actively understand, respond to and embrace changes, and better leverage the institutional strengths of “one country, two systems” and Hong Kong’s unique and internationalised advantages to open up new development opportunities. The HKSAR Government will also spare no effort in pursuing economic development, improving people’s livelihood and exploring new growth areas.           The HKSAR Government will adopt an innovative mindset, coupled with market forces, to take forward the development of the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, accelerating the development of an international innovation and technology centre. Furthermore, it aims to consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre, building Hong Kong as an international hub for high-calibre talent. At the same time, it will further promote the high-quality development of the GBA, actively integrating into national development. It will also enhance Hong Kong’s international competitiveness, deepen international exchanges and co-operation, and strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a bridge linking the Mainland and global markets, with a view to achieving better development in Hong Kong and making further contributions to building the great country and advancing national rejuvenation.           Mr Lee extended his best wishes for the success of the third session of the 14th NPC and the third session of the 14th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 15:27

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender results of 20-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tender results of 20-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds
    ******************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), as representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSAR Government), announced that a tender for 20-year HKD institutional Government Bonds (issue number 20GB4503001) under the Infrastructure Bond Programme was held today (March 5).     A total of HK$0.5 billion 20-year Government Bonds were offered today. A total of HK$2.248 billion tender applications were received. The bid-to-cover ratio, i.e. the ratio of bonds applied for to bonds issued, is 4.50. The average price accepted is 102.44, implying an annualised yield of 3.851 per cent.HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds Tender Results      Tender results of 20-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds:

    Tender Date
    :
    March 5, 2025

    Issue Number
    :
    20GB4503001

    Stock Code
    :
    4290 (HKGB 3.99 4503)

    Issue and Settlement Date
    :
    March 6, 2025

    Tenor
    :
    20 years

    Maturity Date
    :
    March 6, 2045

    Coupon Rate
    :
    3.99 per cent

    Amount Applied
    :
    HK$2.248 billion

    Amount Allotted
    :
    HK$0.5 billion

    Bid-to-Cover Ratio*
    :
    4.50

    Average Price Accepted (Yield)
    :
    102.44 (3.851 per cent)

    Lowest Price Accepted (Yield)
    :
    101.62 (3.910 per cent)

    Pro-rata Ratio
    :
    About 39 per cent

    Average Tender Price (Yield)
    :
    99.13 (4.095 per cent)

    * Calculated as the amount of bonds applied for over the amount of bonds issued.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender results of re-opening of 5-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tender results of re-opening of 5-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds
    *******************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), as representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSAR Government), announced that a tender of 5-year HKD institutional Government Bonds through the re-opening of existing Government Bond (issue number 05GB2912001) under the Infrastructure Bond Programme was held today (March 5).           A total of HK$1.5 billion 5-year Government Bonds were offered today. A total of HK$9.375 billion tender applications were received. The bid-to-cover ratio, i.e. the ratio of bonds applied for to bonds issued, is 6.25. The average price accepted is 99.80, implying an annualised yield of 3.301 per cent.HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds Tender Results      Tender results of 5-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds:

    Tender Date
    :
    March 5, 2025

    Issue Number
    :
    05GB2912001 (Re-open)

    Stock Code
    :
    4284 (HKGB 3.23 2912)

    Issue and Settlement Date
    :
    March 6, 2025

    Tenor
    :
    5 years

    Maturity Date
    :
    December 5, 2029

    Coupon Rate
    :
    3.23 per cent

    Amount Applied
    :
    HK$9.375 billion

    Amount Allotted
    :
    HK$1.5 billion

    Bid-to-Cover Ratio*
    :
    6.25

    Average Price Accepted (Yield)
    :
    99.80 (3.301 per cent)

    Lowest Price Accepted (Yield)
    :
    99.55 (3.360 per cent)

    Pro-rata Ratio
    :
    About 51 per cent

    Average Tender Price (Yield)
    :
    99.33 (3.412 per cent)

    * Calculated as the amount of bonds applied for over the amount of bonds issued.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rating (Exemption) Order 2025 to be gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Rating (Exemption) Order 2025 to be gazetted
    ********************************************

    The Rating (Exemption) Order 2025 will be gazetted on March 7 to implement the one-off rates concessions proposed in the 2025-26 Budget to relieve the financial burden of the general public.     The Budget proposes to waive the rates for the first quarter of 2025-26, subject to a concession cap of $500 for each domestic and non-domestic tenement. The proposal will benefit about 3.55 million properties, reducing government revenue by about $1.7 billion.     The Order will be tabled at the Legislative Council for negative vetting on March 19.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes live lizards of suspected scheduled endangered species (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs seizes live lizards of suspected scheduled endangered species (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

    Hong Kong Customs yesterday (March 4) seized 42 suspected scheduled endangered live lizards with an estimated market value of about $210,000 at Hong Kong International Airport.     Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected an air consignment declared to contain “dehumidifier, air purifier, milk powder” imported from Australia. Upon inspection, the suspected scheduled endangered live lizards were found concealed inside the dehumidifiers, air purifiers and milk powder cans.     The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up action.       ???     Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction with the specimens forfeited.     Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP receives case of severe paediatric influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP receives case of severe paediatric influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis
    *****************************************************************************************

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 5) received a report of a case of severe paediatric influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis and urged the public who have not yet received the seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) to act immediately to minimise the risk of serious complications and death after infection.                The case involved an 8-year-old boy with good past health. He developed cough, runny nose and sore throat since March 1 and developed fever the next day. He sought medical attention from a private doctor on March 3. He attended the Accident and Emergency Department of United Christian Hospital yesterday (March 4) and was admitted to the paediatric ward. He was subsequently transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit of Hong Kong Children Hospital. His nasopharyngeal swab specimen tested positive for the influenza B virus upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was influenza B infection complicated with myocarditis. He is still hospitalised and in critical condition.     The boy had no travel history during the incubation period. His two household contacts had upper respiratory symptoms recently. He received SIV for the current season.                Including the above-mentioned boy, the CHP has recorded 10 cases of severe influenza virus infection in children since the start of this influenza season in early January, seven of whom were unvaccinated. Influenza vaccination has been scientifically proven to be one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal influenza and its complications, while significantly reducing the risk of hospitalisation and death from seasonal influenza. All persons aged 6 months and above (except those with known contraindications) who have not yet received SIV should act immediately, particularly the elderly and children who have a higher risk of becoming infected with influenza and developing complications.                Furthermore, the SIV coverage rate for children aged 6 months to under 2 years remained relatively low at about 25 per cent as of March 2. Although slightly higher than that of the same period last year, it was still lower than that of other age groups of children. To enhance relevant vaccination services and boost the vaccination rate, the Government has opened the DH’s Maternal and Child Health Centres (MCHCs) to all children aged 6 months to under 2 years. Parents may book an appointment for their children to receive vaccinations at designated MCHCs via the online booking system.               The surveillance data of the CHP shows that the seasonal influenza activity in Hong Kong remains above the baseline thresholds. To protect their health and that of their family members, in addition to receiving SIV, the public should also maintain good personal and environmental hygiene, and take the following measures to prevent contracting influenza and other respiratory illnesses:

    Patients can wear surgical masks to prevent transmission of respiratory viruses. Therefore, it is essential for persons who are symptomatic (even if having mild symptoms) to wear a surgical mask;
    High-risk persons (e.g. persons with underlying medical conditions or persons who are immunocompromised) should wear surgical masks when visiting public places. The general public should also wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. It is important to wear a mask properly, including performing hand hygiene before wearing and after removing a mask;
    Avoid touching one’s eyes, mouth and nose;
    Practise hand hygiene frequently, wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
    When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
    Cover the mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly into a lidded rubbish bin, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
    Maintain good indoor ventilation;
    Avoid sharing personal items;
    When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, consider to refrain from going to work or school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly; and
    Maintain a balanced diet, perform physical activity regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

    For the latest information, members of the public can visit the CHP’s seasonal influenza and COVID-19 & Flu Express webpages.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions) Bill 2025 to be gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions) Bill 2025 to be gazetted
    *********************************************************************

    The Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Concessions) Bill 2025 will be gazetted on March 7 to implement the one-off tax concessions proposed in the 2025-26 Budget.     The Budget proposes one-off reductions of salaries tax, tax under personal assessment and profits tax for the year of assessment 2024/25 by 100 per cent, subject to a ceiling of $1,500 per case. The reductions will be reflected in the final tax payable for the year of assessment 2024/25. The proposals will benefit about 2.14 million taxpayers and about 165 400 taxpaying businesses. Government revenue in 2025-26 will be reduced by about $3.1 billion.     The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council for first reading and the commencement of the second reading debate on March 19.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent website and phishing instant messages related to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Fraudulent website and phishing instant messages related to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited relating to a fraudulent website and phishing instant messages, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.           The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).           Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or instant messages concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be gazetted
    ****************************************************************

    The Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 will be gazetted on March 7 to implement the measure announced in the 2025-26 Budget to increase the air passenger departure tax (APDT) from $120 per passenger to $200 with effect from October 1, 2025. The new tax rate will be applicable to air tickets purchased on or after October 1, 2025. It is estimated that government revenue will increase by about $1.6 billion annually.     Under the Air Passenger Departure Tax Ordinance (Cap. 140) (APDT Ordinance), certain classes of people are exempted from payment of the APDT, including passengers under 12 years of age, direct transit passengers, connecting flight passengers, passengers who arrive at and depart from Hong Kong by aircraft on the same day, and passengers who arrive at Hong Kong International Airport by vehicle via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge or by ship and subsequently depart from Hong Kong by aircraft while remaining within the restricted area at all times before departure.     A Government spokesman said, “The APDT was last increased more than 20 years ago in 2003-04. The proposed increase constitutes only a very small portion of the overall travelling cost for the general public and travellers to Hong Kong. The impact on air passengers is expected to be minimal.”     Meanwhile, under the APDT Ordinance, airlines and helicopter company collect the APDT from air passengers on behalf of the Government, and process applications for exemptions and refunds. The Government pays an administration fee to them in return. The Bill also proposes amending the APDT Ordinance to streamline the financial arrangement of the Government for handling the administration fee.       The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council for first reading and the commencement of the second reading debate on March 19.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 17:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves development of ropeway project from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km) in the State of Uttarakhand under National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 3:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of 12.4 km ropeway project from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji. The project will be developed on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) mode at a total capital cost of Rs. 2,730.13 crore.

    Currently, the journey to the Hemkund Sahib Ji is a challenging 21-km uphill trek from Govindghat and is covered on foot or by ponies or palanquins. The proposed ropeway is planned to provide convenience to pilgrims and visiting the Hemkund Sahib Ji and the tourists visiting the Valley of Flowers and will ensure all-weather last mile connectivity between Govindghat and Hemkund Sahib Ji.

    The ropeway is planned to be developed in public-private partnership and will be based on Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG) from Govindghat to Ghangaria (10.55 km), seamlessly integrated with the most advanced Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km) with a design capacity of 1,100 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD) carrying 11,000 passengers per day.

    The ropeway project will also generate substantial employment opportunities during construction and operations as well as in allied tourism industries like hospitality, travel, foods & beverages (F&B) and tourism throughout the year.

    The development of ropeway project is a significant step towards fostering balanced socio-economic development, enhancing last mile connectivity for pilgrims and fostering rapid economic growth of the region.

    Hemkund Sahib Ji is a highly revered pilgrimage site situated at an elevation of 15,000 ft in Chamoli district of the State of Uttarakhand. The Gurudwara established at the holy site is open for about 5 months in a year between May and September and is visited by about 1.5 to 2 lakh pilgrims annually. The trek to Hemkund Sahib Ji also serves as the gateway to the famous Valley of Flowers, a national park recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas.

    *****

    MJPS/BM

    (Release ID: 2108417) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO conducts high-altitude trials of Indigenous Integrated Life Support System for LCA Tejas

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 12:37PM by PIB Delhi

    The Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), a Bengaluru-based lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), successfully conducted high-altitude trials of the Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS)-based Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the LCA Tejas aircraft, on March 04, 2025.

    The OBOGS-based ILSS is a cutting-edge system designed to generate and regulate breathable oxygen for pilots during flight, eliminating dependence on traditional liquid oxygen cylinder-based systems. The ILSS underwent rigorous testing on the LCA-Prototype Vehicle-3 aircraft of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)/ Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), meeting stringent aeromedical standards in varied flight conditions, including altitudes of up to 50,000 feet Above Mean Sea Level and high-G maneuvers.

    Performance evaluations covered critical aspects such as oxygen concentration, demand breathing, availability of 100% oxygen, aerobatic maneuvers at required altitudes for full functional testing of Anti – G Valve, Breathing Oxygen System (BOS) ON during taxying, Take off, Cruise, G turns and rejoin approach & landing. Following flight clearance from Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), the system successfully met all specified parameters. Beyond OBOGS, the ILSS integrates 10 Line Replaceable Units, including the Low-Pressure Breathing Regulator, BOS, Emergency Oxygen System, Oxygen Sensor, Anti-G valve, and other advanced components. This would ensure real-time oxygen generation, enhancing pilot endurance and operational effectiveness.

    The system has been manufactured by L&T as a Development cum Production Partner, reflecting a significant collaboration between DRDO and Indian defence industries. Notably, the ILSS has 90% indigenous content, furthering India’s self-reliance in aerospace technology. With appropriate modifications, the system can also be adapted for use in MiG-29K and other aircraft. This milestone has been achieved through the collaborative efforts of DEBEL, ADA, HAL, CEMILAC, National Flight Test Center, Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance, and the Indian Air Force (IAF).

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, IAF, Public Sector Undertakings, and industry partners on this remarkable achievement, emphasising that this development reinforces India’s commitment to cutting-edge defence technologies and aligns with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’

    Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat also lauded the DRDO team, the IAF, and industry partners for their contributions towards the successful high-altitude trial of the Indigenous ILSS for LCA Tejas.

    ******

    SR/MR/KB

    (Release ID: 2108329) Visitor Counter : 8

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed acquisition of certain shareholding of Schott Poonawalla Private Limited by TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd.

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 12:22PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed acquisition of certain shareholding of Schott Poonawalla Private Limited by TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd.

    The proposed combination involves the acquisition by TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd. of certain shareholding in SPPL by way of a secondary purchase from Serum Institute of India Private Limited. (Proposed Combination).

    The TPG Scion SG Pte. Ltd. (TPG Scion/Acquirer), is a newly incorporated special purpose investment vehicle incorporated in Singapore on 11th October 2024 for the purposes of the Proposed Combination. Currently it does not have any operations in India. TPG Scion is an affiliate of the TPG Group, which is a global, diversified investment firm founded in 1992. TPG Scion is ultimately managed and controlled by an entity, which is advised by the affiliates of TPG Inc. (TPG), the ultimate holding company of the TPG Group. TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, are together referred to as “TPG Group”.

    Schott Poonawalla Private Limited (SPPL/Target) is  engaged in the business of developing, manufacturing and selling, sterile or non-sterile glass containers such as ampoules, vials, cartridges or syringes for primary pharmaceutical packaging and their ancillary components by converting tubular glass into ampoules, vials, cartridge and prefilled syringes or otherwise.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    *****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2108317) Visitor Counter : 13

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commission approves acquisition of equity shares of PSP Projects Limited by Adani Infra (India) Limited

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 12:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of equity shares of PSP Projects Limited by Adani Infra (India) Limited.

    The proposed transaction involves the acquisition by Adani Infra (India) Limited (Acquirer) of equity shares of PSP Projects Limited (Target) from: (i) Mr. Prahaladbhai S. Patel (Seller) (Initial Acquisition); and (ii) public shareholders by way of an open offer (Open Offer), such that, post-closing of the Initial Acquisition and Open Offer, the Acquirer (on the one hand) and the Seller and other existing promoters (on the other hand) would hold equal shareholding.

    The Acquirer is an infrastructure development company with specialization in comprehensive engineering, project management, and construction services for power generation and transmission sector. The Acquirer provides Project Management Consultancy (PMC) and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services for road, water, and power projects.

    The Target is in the business of providing EPC services across sectors such as industrial, institutional, residential, government, government residential and all and other work relating thereto. It offers construction and allied services across industrial, institutional, government, government residential and residential projects in India. It provides its services across the construction value chain, ranging from planning and design to construction and post-construction activities, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work and other interior fit outs to private and public sector enterprises.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    *****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2108315) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed acquisition of up to 72.8% shareholding of Orient Cement Limited by Ambuja Cements Limited

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 12:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed acquisition of up to 72.8% shareholding of Orient Cement Limited by Ambuja Cements Limited.

    Ambuja Cements Limited (Acquirer) is engaged in the manufacture and sale of grey cement, including Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Pozzolona Portland Cement (PPC), and Pozzolona Composite Cement (PCC). The Acquirer (including its subsidiaries) operates 22 integrated cement plants across India, as well as 10 bulk cement terminals and 21 grinding units.

    Orient Cement Limited (Target) is involved in the business of manufacturing grey cement, including PPC and OPC. It has three manufacturing facilities at Devapur (Telangana), Chittapur (Karnataka) and Jalgaon (Maharashtra), with distribution in 10 states across India.

    The proposed transaction comprises of the following steps:

    1. Step 1: Acquisition of 46.80% of the issued share capital in the Target by the Acquirer, including 37.90% held by the current Promoter and Promoter Group and 8.90% from certain public shareholders.
    2. Step 2: Step 1 triggers an obligation on the Acquirer to make an open offer under Regulation 3(1) and 4 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011 for acquisition of up to 26% of the expanded share capital of the Target (Open Offer). Assuming full acceptance of Open Offer, the shareholding of the Acquirer will stand at 72.8%.  

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    *****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2108314) Visitor Counter : 12

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed combination involving acquisition of pharma solution segment and product lines of Nourish segment of International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.(IFF) by Roquette Frères S.A.(Roquette)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 12:19PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed combination involving acquisition of pharma solution segment and product lines of Nourish segment of International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.(IFF) by Roquette Frères S.A.(Roquette).

    The Proposed Combination involves acquisition by Roquette of the Pharma Solutions business and certain product lines of the Nourish business (i.e., collectively the Target Business) of IFF by way of Roquette’s purchase of equity interest in certain IFF entities that collectively  house / are proposed to house the Target Business.

    Roquette is a family-owned French company active in the production and sale of plant-based ingredients, excipients, and plant proteins for various applications. Roquette is active in India through several Indian-based subsidiaries, namely Crest Cellulose Pvt. Ltd., Sethness-Roquette India Ltd., and Roquette India Pvt. Ltd.

    The Target Business is currently part of IFF, a U.S. public company listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The Target Business primarily comprises the business, operations and activities of IFF’s Pharma Solutions segment, with certain adjustments to include relevant businesses and product lines of the Nourish segment. The “Pharma Solutions” segment produces a variety of cellulosics and other types of plant-based pharmaceutical excipients. The “Nourish” segment comprises flavours, and ingredients such as texturising solutions and food designs. The Target Business is present in India through one entity, namely Danisco Nutrition and Biosciences India Private Limited.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    *****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2108312) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News