Category: Asia

MIL-OSI Security: Disbarred Queens Attorney Sentenced to 54 Months in Prison for Defrauding Clients

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Defendant Falsely Held Himself Out as a Trusted Attorney in the Korean-American Community

Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, disbarred attorney Hyun W. Lee, also known as “Michael Lee,” was sentenced by United States District Judge Pamela K. Chen to 54 months in prison for wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud his real estate clients and their counterparties of funds held in his attorney escrow account. As part of the sentence, Lee was ordered to pay the government $3.27 million in forfeiture and restitution to the victims in the amount of $3.29 million. Lee pleaded guilty to wire fraud in December 2023.

John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the sentence.

“The defendant was disbarred from the practice of law for reprehensible misconduct, but that severe penalty did not deter him from continuing to abuse the trust of clients, so it is my hope that he will get the message after serving a term of imprisonment for his crimes,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “It is particularly egregious that Lee committed these crimes by holding himself out as a trusted lawyer to clients within the Korean-American community in Queens, where many immigrants have little experience with the legal system and place an enormous amount of trust in the hands of individuals like the defendant who profess to represent their interests in legal proceedings.”

Mr. Durham thanked the Queens County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this matter.

Lee was an attorney licensed by the State of New York admitted to practice in 2003. He maintained an office in Flushing, Queens, where he represented buyers and sellers in connection with the purchase and sale of real property. On March 11, 2020, Lee was disbarred as a result of charges brought by the Grievance Committee that he had engaged in a pattern and practice of misappropriating client and third-party funds. As a result, Lee was not permitted to accept funds from clients and third parties.

Between February 2018 and May 2023, Lee induced clients and counterparties to entrust funds to him for the purchase of real estate based on misrepresentations that he would release the funds deposited into his escrow account. Instead, Lee misappropriated these funds and used them for his own benefit, which included gambling at casinos and to pay expenses at a restaurant that he was a part-owner. Lee misrepresented that he was an attorney authorized to represent clients in connection with the purchase and sale of real estate, and to receive and hold funds in his escrow account in connection with real estate transactions.

In furtherance of the scheme, Lee misled clients about the status of funds held in his escrow account by fabricating documents leading them to believe their funds were secure. While documentation Lee showed to clients reflected a balance in Lee’s escrow account of nearly $3 million, in reality Lee had depleted the escrow account down to only approximately $25,000. Lee failed to honor requests by clients and their counterparties to release funds from his escrow account, falsely claiming that he was in the process of working out an equitable distribution of funds that remained. In reality, Lee had already spent virtually all of the funds in the account.

Victims who suffered losses as a result of the conduct of Lee, or other New York lawyers who engage in misconduct, may be eligible to receive compensation by filing a claim with the Lawyer’s Fund for Client Protection, which may be reached by calling (800) 442-3863 or e-mailing info@nylawfund.org

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hiral D. Mehta is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Special Agent Martin Sullivan.

The Defendant:

HYUN W. LEE (also known as “Michael Lee”)
Age: 51
Closter, New Jersey

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-465 (PKC)

MIL Security OSI –

February 5, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Graffiti removal isn’t the enemy of art. It’s part of a vibrant dialogue on life in the big city

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sabina Andron, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Cities and Urbanism, The University of Melbourne

Thanks Radical Graffiti for informing me where my next job is!

This is the message I woke up to on January 26, as one of my research participants saw some anti-colonial graffiti in Melbourne posted on the popular Instagram page. The “job” he refers to is that of removing graffiti – a costly, relentless and largely overlooked maintenance operation in modern cities.

Graffiti removal is an ongoing practice in big cities such as Sydney and Melbourne.
Sabina Andron

You may have heard of various statues being defaced across the country to protest Australia Day. And if you live in Melbourne, you’ve probably come across the city’s iconic “Pam the Bird” graffiti. Pam’s creator was arrested on January 30, about a week after a massive image of the bird appeared on the Novotel hotel in South Wharf.

What you don’t see, however, are the groups of workers standing by to evaluate and repair the damage done by graffiti artists. These graffiti removal technicians, or “buffers”, often posses a more detailed knowledge of the urban fabric than many architects and planners.

With millions invested in graffiti removal in Australia, as part of a visual policing of surfaces, I argue “buff” deserves recognition as a cultural and aesthetic practice of its own.

Buff commonly appears as mismatched rectangular shapes.
Sabina Andron

What is “buff” and how does it work?

Graffiti removal is the practice of removing, erasing or obliterating unauthorised displays from publicly visible urban surfaces.

In graffiti culture, this removal is colloquially known as “buff”. The name comes from a chemical train washing facility deployed by the Municipal Transit Authority in New York City in the 1970s, when graffiti clean-up efforts first started.

Buff is typically conducted by authorised municipal officers or private contractors and businesses. It involves the chemical and mechanical treatment of urban surfaces, often underpinned by zero tolerance policies that have turned it into a global billion dollar industry.

Greg Ireland demonstrating his products inside his Graffiti Removal Chemicals training facility in Melbourne.
Sabina Andron

Whether they work for local councils through apps such as Snap Send Solve, run private businesses, or operate independently as anti-graffiti vigilantes, buffers either remove unwanted marks, or paint over them to obstruct them from view.

And with the removal of one image, comes the creation of another.

In this example chemicals are used to destroy the surface paint, leaving behind a ‘ghost’ image.
Sabina Andron

A symbiotic relationship

It’s a common misconception that buff is strictly an image removal process – a zero sum game aimed at returning public surfaces to a pristine material state. This assumption is the main reason it has been afforded little attention as a creative practice.

In fact, buff produces some of the most interesting visual forms within contemporary cities. It contributes to the visual cultures of cities worldwide, not just through maintaining visual order, but through delivering easily overlooked painterly compositions.

The visual forms of buff done by vigilantes can be even more jarring than the graffiti they cover.
Sabina Andron

Much like graffiti, buff is a widespread visual and symbolic feature of contemporary cities. These two practices need each other, and engage with cities in symmetrical and symbiotic ways.

Buff will sometimes closely follow the contours of the graffiti it obstructs.
Sabina Andron

Also, although they operate on different mandates, graffiti writers and buffers largely respect each others’ resourcefulness and creativity. As one buffer has repeatedly told me, “tagging and buffing are more related than people are prepared to see.”

Buffers and writers use walls collaboratively. Here, a graffiti writer acknowledges the abater with a message: ‘legendary buff’.
Sabina Andron

Graffiti removal as aesthetic practice

Keen urban enthusiasts have been documenting buff in many forms, from the early photographs of Avalon Kalin in the United States, to artist Lorenzo Servi’s The City Is Ours bookzine on graffiti removal, to Hans Leo Maes’ photographic collection of buff from the 2019 Hong Kong protests.

Most famously, buff made the object of a 2001 experimental documentary by Matt McCormick. This cult favourite popularised the idea of graffiti removal as a subconsciously creative act with aesthetics that resemble the works of abstract expressionists such as Mark Rothko or Agnes Martin.

The abstract expressionist aesthetics of repeated buff interventions.
Sabina Andron

A suite of other contemporary artists and photographers, many of who come from a graffiti background, also engage with buff in their practice. Mobstr, Germain Prévost (Ipin), Thierry Furger, Nelio Riga and Svetlana Feoktistova provide just some examples of buff-generated creativity.

Three different buff treatments of the same wall.
Sabina Andron

Others such as activist Kyle Magee have served prison sentences for buffing public ads, raising questions about not only the legitimacy of public images, but the legitimacy of their obstruction.

An example of activist buff on street posters.
Sabina Andron

Beyond visual order mandates

Involuntarily perhaps, creativity is everywhere. Urban surfaces are prized visual and material assets in cities, with the potential to generate huge symbolic and economic capital.

No matter how many millions of dollars are invested in removing graffiti, or pursuing criminal cases against its creators, public surfaces will always be contentious forums of visual production, obstruction and collaboration.

Textured surfaces resulting from visual dialogues between graffiti and buff.
Sabina Andron

Alongside graffiti, posters, stickers and myriad other inscriptions, buff adds new textures to the surfaces of our cities. Its aesthetic and cultural value should be celebrated.

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

– ref. Graffiti removal isn’t the enemy of art. It’s part of a vibrant dialogue on life in the big city – https://theconversation.com/graffiti-removal-isnt-the-enemy-of-art-its-part-of-a-vibrant-dialogue-on-life-in-the-big-city-248668

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: USAid shutdown isn’t just a humanitarian issue – it’s a threat to American interests

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor in the Department of Government, University of Essex

The website for the United States Agency for International Development (USAid), the world’s biggest aid donor, has gone dark.

Donald Trump’s new administration plans to place the autonomous agency under the control of the state department. The secretary of state, Marco Rubio, has now declared himself as head of the agency to “align” it with Trump’s priorities.

Several days ago, on January 26, Rubio said: “Every dollar we spend, every programme we fund, and every policy we pursue must be justified with the answer to three simple questions: Does it make America safer? Does it make America stronger? Does it make America more prosperous?”

But the decision to freeze USAid, which is part of Trump’s policy to put “America first”, places everyone at risk. Organisations that provide vital care for vulnerable people around the world are being forced to halt operations. The boss of one such organisation said: “People will die.”

Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a close adviser to Trump, is playing an active role in the destruction of USAid. He has claimed – without providing any evidence – that the agency is “beyond repair”. “It needs to die,” Musk wrote on X.

Musk, who leads the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), is gearing to cut trillions of dollars from the US budget. However, by seeing cuts to USAid as a solution, Trump and Musk are catering to an audience that has a fundamental misunderstanding about US foreign aid more generally.

Surveys demonstrate that Americans believe 25% of the federal budget is spent on foreign aid. In reality, the US gives about 0.2% of its gross national product (GNP), the total value of goods and services produced by a country, to foreign aid – or less than 1% of its federal budget. This is far below the UN target of 0.7% of GNP.

But, despite this, USAid provided 42% of all humanitarian aid globally in 2024. This included about US$72 billion (£58 billion) in aid in a wide range of areas, from helping people access clean water, sanitation, healthcare and energy, to providing disaster relief, shelter and food.

USAid also delivered programmes aimed at supporting democracy, civil society, economic development and landmine clearance in war zones, as well as working to prevent organised crime, terrorism and conflict. The gutting of USAid will have a profound impact on human security.

The Trump administration has granted a waiver for the continuation of “life-saving humanitarian assistance”. This includes a programme that helps 20 million people living with HIV/Aids access anti-retroviral drugs. But there are questions about the future of US Aids organisation, the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar).

To date, over 43 million people worldwide have died from Aids. But one of the biggest success stories of the George W. Bush administration was its launch of Pepfar in 2003. The World Health Organization says that Pepfar, working in partnership with USAid, has saved 26 million lives.

Pepfar employs more than 250,000 doctors, nurses and other staff across 55 countries. One of the functions that USAid performs is ordering and procuring the drugs used by Pepfar to keep the millions infected with HIV alive. It remains to be seen whether federal payments to USAid’s locally run partner organisations will be stopped.

We are, in any case, likely to see an uptick in other infectious diseases. USAid had been working to prevent current outbreaks of mpox and Marburg virus from spreading beyond Africa. It is not clear what the future is for these programmes.

And USAid’s work with malaria, a disease that kills about 450,000 children under the age of five each year, is facing uncertainty. From 2000 to 2021, USAid’s work helped to prevent 7.6 million deaths from malaria. Also in doubt is USAid’s work to develop and implement the malaria vaccine, which was considered a gamechanger for combating the disease.

At the same time, USAid responds to an average of 65 natural disasters each year. In 2024 alone, it responded to 84 separate crises across 66 different countries. The government is letting go all of the staff important for implementing these types of programmes.

Dozens of senior USAid officials have been placed on leave, while contractors working on the agency’s programmes have been furloughed. Up to 3,000 aid workers in Washington DC could reportedly be laid off this week.

What Trump’s team misunderstand is that the work of USAid is also vital for preserving American interests. China, which has poured more than US$1 trillion of assistance into infrastructure projects in Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America since 2013, will now be given an opportunity to exert more influence around the world. The void in US aid is a gift for China in the battle for soft power.

White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, lists some of what she calls the ‘insane priorities’ that USAid has been spending money on.

Global aid sector in disarray

Foreign aid relies on certainty and transparency about the future of aid programmes. But the Trump administration has offered little clarity while US foreign aid programmes are all being reviewed. One aid organisation referred to the situation as an “absolute dumpster fire” due to the uncertainty.

There have already been reports of total confusion in health clinics previously supported by USAid, which were shut down without warning. Africa will probably be the region most negatively affected. Local workers in healthcare-related projects on the continent will lose their jobs, while nurses, doctors and healthcare workers across clinics will be unable to continue their vital work.

The Democrats have claimed that Trump does not have the legal authority to eradicate a congressionally funded independent agency. They have said court challenges are already in motion and have pledged to try to block approval of Trump’s state department nominations until the shutdown is reversed.

Trump did try to cut US foreign aid during his first term, but Congress refused. He then tried – and ultimately failed – to freeze the flow of aid appropriated by Congress. This time, Trump is not bothering to play by the rules.

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

– ref. USAid shutdown isn’t just a humanitarian issue – it’s a threat to American interests – https://theconversation.com/usaid-shutdown-isnt-just-a-humanitarian-issue-its-a-threat-to-american-interests-248939

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Navy Snow Team Departs to Sapporo for Snow Festival

Source: United States Navy

This year, Sailors from NAF Misawa and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70 will sculpt the U.S. Navy F-35C Lighting II stealth fighter jet, which was recently forward deployed to Japan last year. Sailors selected for the team were chosen because of their superior work performance and dedication to the U.S. Navy both on and off-duty.

This year’s snow team will be led by Lt. Cmdr. Seth Koenig and Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Enrico Dagsindal, comprised of an eight-person team including Mass Communication Specialist First Class Caroline Lui, Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Matthew Fischer, Aviation Support Equipment Technician First Class Hernan Hernandez, Culinary Specialist Second Class Adallis Bookman, Religious Program Specialist Second Class David Johnson, and Builder Second Class Sawson Doty.

The team is scheduled to complete the snow sculpture by Feb. 3, spending the remainder of their time in Sapporo interacting with visitors at the Snow Festival until Feb. 7. Festival goers are encouraged to take pictures and engage in friendly conversation with Sailors at the site.

This is the 40th year the U.S. Navy has participated in the Sapporo Snow Festival, which has provided a unique opportunity for Sailors to experience Japanese culture and tradition and strengthen the close friendship between the U.S. Navy and citizens of Japan.

MIL Security OSI –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Provides Guidance to Students, Educators on Immigration Enforcement on School Campuses
Source: US State of California

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov
SACRAMENTO – In the wake of new concerns of immigration enforcement on school campuses, California Attorney General Rob Bonta today highlighted recent guidance to students, families, educators, and school officials to help ensure a safe and secure school environment for all. The first document provides practical guidance to school officials on how to respond if an immigration officer comes to campus. The second document provides guidance and model policies for K-12 public schools to assist them in complying with state law. The final document provides immigrant students and their families with information on their educational rights and protections under the law. These resources can be found in multiple languages at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources.

“All children have a constitutional right to access a public education, regardless of their immigration status,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Schools are meant to be a safe place for children to learn and grow. Unfortunately, the President’s recent orders have created fear and uncertainty in our immigrant communities. My office is committed to ensuring our educators have the tools and knowledge they need to respond appropriately if immigration officers come to their campus – and that immigrant students and families understand their rights and protections under the law. I encourage schools to keep our office apprised of immigration enforcement occurring on their campuses by emailing immigration@doj.ca.gov. We’re continuing to monitor this issue closely, and we will not hesitate to act if we believe this enforcement goes beyond federal authority under the law.”

Guidance for School Officials if an Immigration Officer Comes to Campus
1. Notify the designated local educational agency administrator of the request, and advise the immigration officer that, before proceeding with the request, and absent exigent circumstances, you must first receive direction from the local educational agency administrator.
2. Ask to see, and make a copy of or note, the officer’s credentials (name and badge number), and the phone number of his/her supervisor.
3. Ask the officer for his/her reason for being on school grounds and to produce any documentation that authorizes school access. Make a copy of all documents provided by the officer.
4. If the officer does not declare that exigent circumstances exist, respond according to the requirements of the officer’s documentation.
5. While you should not consent to access by an immigration enforcement officer unless he/she declares exigent circumstances or has a federal judicial warrant, do not attempt to physically impede an officer, even if he/she appears to lack authorization to enter. If an officer enters the premises without consent, document his/her actions while on campus.
6. Notify parents or guardians as soon as possible (unless prevented by a judicial warrant or subpoena), and do so before an officer questions or removes a student for immigration-enforcement purposes (unless a judicial warrant has been presented).
7. Provide a copy of those notes, and associated documents collected from the officer to the local educational agency’s legal counsel, Superintendent, or other designated administrator.
8. Apprise the California Department of Justice of any attempt by a law-enforcement officer to access a school site or a student for immigration-enforcement purposes by emailing immigration@doj.ca.gov.
The complete Quick Reference for School Officials guide is available in English and Spanish.

Rights of Immigrant Students and Families
- Right to a Free Public Education: All children have a right to equal access to free public education, regardless of their or their parents’/guardians’ immigration status, under the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
- Information Required for School Enrollment: Schools must accept a variety of documents from the student’s parent or guardian to demonstrate proof of child’s age or residency and schools are not required to keep a copy of the document used as proof of a child’s age.
- Confidentiality of Personal Information: Federal and state laws protect student education records and personal information. These laws generally require that schools obtain written consent from parents or guardians before releasing student information, unless the release of information is for educational purposes, is already public, or is in response to a court order or subpoena.
- Right to File a Complaint: Your child has the right to report a hate crime or file a complaint to the school district if he or she is discriminated against, harassed, intimidated, or bullied because of his or her actual or perceived nationality, ethnicity, or immigration status.
The complete Guide for Students and Families is available English, Spanish, Chinese (Simplified), Korean, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.
# # #

MIL OSI USA News –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: PASSED: Sens. Moran, Daines, Heinrich Resolution Designating National Tribal Colleges & Universities Week

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) today announced the Senate passage of the bipartisan resolution designating the week beginning February 3, 2025, as “National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week.” This week is dedicated to the recognition of and support for the achievements of students pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities in Tribal Colleges and Universities.

“Tribal colleges and universities, like Haskell Indian Nations University, provide native students the opportunity to receive a higher education in an environment that prioritizes their heritage and culture,“ said Sen. Moran. “This legislation provides an opportunity to applaud and support the accomplishments of tribal students and their educators – both of which are deserving of our recognition”

“Our tribal colleges and universities play a vital role in Montana’s communities and provide incredible opportunities for higher education on or near Montana’s reservations,” said Sen. Daines. “I’m proud to introduce legislation so the hard work and great achievements of our Montana students, teachers and educational institutions can be recognized nationally.”

“I’m pleased the Senate passed my resolution designating this week as National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week,” said Sen. Heinrich. “This resolution recognizes the vital role of Tribal colleges and universities in creating opportunities for the next generation of Tribal leaders, upholding Tribal educational sovereignty, and preparing Native students for careers they can build their families around in their home communities.”

Read the full text of the resolution here.

In December, Sen. Moran released draft legislation that would federally charter Haskell Indian Nations University and transfer governance from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to the Haskell Board of Regents, while maintaining federal funding for the university.

The Senators were also joined by Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Michael Bennett (D-Colo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Deb Fischer (Neb.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.).

MIL OSI USA News –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: World’s First Holographic 3D Ad Network Launches at Simon Malls Nationwide

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, New York, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hologram Media Network (HMN) has launched the world’s first always-on holographic advertising network, built in collaboration with Proto Hologram. Featuring next-generation Proto Luma devices, the network spans Simon^® malls across the nation, offering a revolutionary platform that merges the digital and physical worlds in dynamic, interactive ways.

The network – which has already deployed across 30 premier Simon locations – including Los Angeles’ Del Amo Mall, New York’s Roosevelt Field Mall, Atlanta’s Lenox Square Mall, Nashville’s Opry Mills, and Chicago’s Woodfield Mall – offers limited advertising inventory, featuring 3D creative advertising programmed alongside exclusive IP content collaborations. Each month’s holographic show is curated with captivating storytelling from major studios, creators, artists, and influencers, as well as live interactive hologram events with celebrities. Initial content showcased experiences for Paramount Pictures‘ Sonic the Hedgehog 3 in December and Sony Pictures’ Paddington in Peru in February, immersing customers in lifelike 3D encounters with beloved characters and creating unforgettable and interactive moments.

A Proto Luma installed by Hologram Media Networks at Simon’s Del Amo Mall in Southern California. (Credit: Steven Hong).

Unprecedented Engagement Metrics and Cutting-Edge Experiences

Early data highlights the effectiveness of HMN’s installations, with viewers engaging with holograms for an average of 24 seconds— over 500% higher than video dwell times on leading social media platforms like TikTok. This extended watch time underscores the ability of HMN’s holograms to command attention in today’s crowded media landscape. Augmented Reality (AR) experiences integrated with holographic displays are driving impressive 35% click-through rates, with thousands of customers engaging in the first two weeks of campaigns.

“Today’s consumers live in a world where engaging with 3D experiences is becoming second nature,” said James Andrew Felts, CEO of HMN. “Platforms like Meta Quest, Fortnite, and Roblox have normalized interacting with immersive content. HMN elevates this trend by bringing experiential media to real world spaces at scale, bridging the digital and physical spaces in ways that match changing customer expectations.”

A Game-Changer for Advertising

HMN represents a leap forward in advertising optionality in the Out-Of-Home space. Unlike conventional 3D illusions or anamorphic screens, HMN offers holographic experiences that are three-dimensional and with no headsets or special equipment needed, creating captivating communal experiences. These displays bring content to life with a level of depth and realism that hasn’t been seen at scale in high traffic media locations like malls.

“I’ve witnessed the evolution of countless mediums, but nothing compares to this,” said Proto Founder David Nussbaum, who has spent over 25 years in marketing and entertainment. “Together with HMN, we’re not just delivering ads—we’re creating personal, unforgettable moments at scale. This is a new era for interactive media, where the lines between the digital and physical worlds disappear.”

Augmented Reality (AR) is core to HMN’s offering, seamlessly integrated into holographic promotions and content shows. Viewers can unlock exclusive AR experiences, save them to personalized accounts, and reengage with interactive features. For example, viewers of the Sonic The Hedgehog 3 showcase could scan a QR code to unlock an AR scene with characters for photos and further engagement.

Technology Tailored for Retail

The Proto Luma, Proto’s latest innovation, powers the HMN network. Designed for retail, the Luma is more compact and cost-effective than Proto’s flagship Epic, while still delivering vivid 3D holograms. Its integration with Proto’s proprietary AI Persona tools and RetailSage fleet management system ensures seamless operation at scale.

Proto is the original hologram device and spatial compute platform already in use by Fortune 500 companies worldwide across enterprise, healthcare, education, entertainment and more. In the retail space, Proto has previously partnered with companies including Amazon, Burberry, H&M, Walmart, Target and Verizon.

HMN and Proto will execute monthly live events featuring celebrities, influencers and brand ambassadors. In December, comedian Howie Mandel delighted shoppers by interacting with them in real-time via hologram, turning a routine outing into an extraordinary experience.

Simon, a real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations, has a longstanding reputation for innovation and enhancing the shopping experience. Known for blending retail with entertainment and lifestyle offerings, Simon has consistently redefined what modern malls can achieve. From advanced digital wayfinding systems to integrating omnichannel retail strategies, Simon continues to lead in creating immersive environments that draw and engage shoppers. Their embrace of cutting-edge technology underscores their commitment to staying ahead in an evolving retail landscape.

“Hologram Media Network (HMN) represents the next frontier of engagement for Simon,” said Dennis Tietjen, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Simon. “We’re excited to collaborate on bringing this revolutionary technology to our properties, transforming the way brands connect with shoppers and delivering an unparalleled experience for our guests.”

Proto Founder David Nussbaum (Left) and HMN CEO James Andrew Felts with the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 hologram. (Credit: Steven Hong)

Future Expansion

HMN will soon announce deployments with additional malls and plans to expand the network to 150 Proto units by the end of 2025.

“Our vision is not just to present holograms but to create a dynamic ecosystem where customers can interact with digital content in the real world,” Felts explained. “This is a glimpse into the future we envision, where consumers experience the blending of their online and physical worlds.”

For Hologram Media Network distribution and ad sales contact: andrew@hologrammedia.net
+1 818.385.5259

For photos, videos, demonstrations, interviews and other press info contact: owen@protohologram.com

Proto investor Paris Hilton in one of Hologram Media Network’s Proto Luma mall installations. (Credit: Steven Hong)

About Hologram Media Network:

Hologram Media Network is a pioneering digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising platform specializing in immersive, 3D holographic experiences. With a mission to revolutionize consumer engagement in the real world, we deploy cutting-edge hologram units in high-traffic locations such as shopping malls and movie theaters. By combining innovative technology with strategic placement, we offer advertisers unparalleled opportunities to captivate audiences in dynamic, interactive ways. Our vision is to create a nationwide network of 200 premium hologram displays within two years, setting a new standard for DOOH advertising.

To learn more about Hologram Media Network, visit www.hologrammedia.net

About Proto Inc.:

Proto Inc. is the patented leader in hologram technology and AI spatial computing. Proto devices and its platform are in use across enterprise, finance, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, sports and entertainment. Invented in Los Angeles and with showrooms and distribution partners around the globe, Proto distributes the large Proto Epic and Proto Luma, the desktop-sized Proto M, and a suite of hologram AI and spatial computing services. Learn more at protohologram.com

About Simon:

Simon® is a real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations and an S&P 100 company (Simon Property Group, NYSE: SPG). Our properties across North America, Europe and Asia provide community gathering places for millions of people every day and generate billions in annual sales.

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: LaPorte Brothers Sentenced to Prison

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

SOUTH BEND – Raymond Calvin Smith, 27 years old, and Bruce Milik Smith, 25 years old, brothers from LaPorte, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to federal felony charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Raymond Smith was sentenced to 70 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Bruce Smith was sentenced to 39 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. The two brothers were ordered to pay $723,832.64 in restitution to the victims of their offense. Raymond Smith was also ordered to pay $162,928.62 in restitution to the IRS.

According to documents in the case, from about January 2021 to December 2021, the Smith brothers operated an elaborate fraud scheme using Indiana mobile sports wagering applications. Using personal information of victims, such as bank account numbers and passwords, they set up dozens of accounts in victims’ names on at least 8 different sports wagering applications. Using sports wagering applications, they funneled money from victims’ bank accounts to themselves. With the personal information of approximately 60 victims, the Smith brothers stole a total of $723,832.64, and unsuccessfully attempted to steal an additional $930,782.00. Both Smith brothers pled guilty to the mail fraud scheme while Raymond Smith also pled guilty to evading taxes on the proceeds he received in 2021.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Indiana Gaming Commission. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.

MIL Security OSI –

February 5, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: 29 Individuals Sentenced to 378 Combined Years in Federal Prison for Running Armed Fentanyl and Meth Trafficking Ring

Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

EVANSVILE- 29 defendants have been sentenced to a combined 378 years in federal prison for their roles in a large methamphetamine and fentanyl drug trafficking organization that operated in Southern Indiana.

According to court documents, between January 2020 and November 2021, the following 29 individuals conspired together to distribute a total of nearly 500 pounds of methamphetamine and over three kilograms of fentanyl. This investigation led to the seizure of over 80 pounds of methamphetamine, over 560 grams of fentanyl, and $240,000 in United States currency.

Jeramey Smith served as the leader of the drug trafficking operation. Smith began obtaining multiple pound quantities of crystal methamphetamine from Julian Green in early 2020 until April of 2021 when he changed his source of supply to a cartel linked individual based in Houston, Texas. In June of 2021, Smith was robbed of a large amount of cash and was unable to pay his supplier for the lost product. Smith resorted back to Green to obtain the crystal methamphetamine.

DeJarnett was one of Smith’s top methamphetamine customers, often purchasing up to 20 pounds at a time. After Smith obtained the methamphetamine from either Green or his Mexican source of supply, he then distributed the methamphetamine to mid -level distributors in Indianapolis and Evansville.

In September 2021, Smith branched out to also begin selling large quantities of fentanyl-laced pills. Smith would obtain fentanyl powder from Markey and/or Moore, who would then press the powder into pills. Smith then used his same distributors to distribute the fentanyl throughout Southern Indiana. Law enforcement seized an automated pill press during the course of the investigation. Smith also used violence and intimidation to further his drug business by having his distributors robbed of their drug proceeds at gun point.

Additionally, several members of the drug trafficking used firearms to protect themselves and their profits. In total, law enforcement officers seized over 30 firearms from the defendants during court-authorized searches at multiple locations in Indianapolis and Evansville.

The charges and sentences are described below:

Defendant	Charge(s)	Prison Sentence
Jeramey Smith, 35 Indianapolis, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl Felon in Possession of a Firearm Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery	240 months (20 years) 5 years supervised release
Julian Green, 36 Indianapolis, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Felon in Possession of a Firearm	210 months (17.5 years) Indianapolis, IN
Hannah Kissel, 28 Indianapolis, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl	97 months (8 years) 3 years supervised release
Jordan Wilson, 41 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl Felon in Possession of a Firearm	216 months (15.7 years) 5 years supervised release
Timothy Rice, 35 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	204 months (17 years) 5 years supervised release
Archilles Johnson, 40 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Deonte Howard, 36 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Julie Hunt, 37 Petersburg, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl	60 months (5 years) 3 years supervised release
Torrance Mimms, 34 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Keisha Jewell, 40 Princeton, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl	108 years (9 years) 3 years supervised release
Davion Hays, 38 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	144 months (12 years) 5 years supervised release
Jason Mitchell, 43 Henderson, KY	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	204 months (17 years) 5 years supervised release
Denny Taylor, 49 Princeton, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Aaron Hardiman, 42 Princeton, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl	120 months (10 years) 5 years supervised release
Roman Wills, 43 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Michael Sanders, 48 Owensboro, KY	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	168 months (14 years) 5 years supervised release
Gregory Snyder, 62 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	36 months (3 years) 4 years supervised release
Joshua Gahagan, 41 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Gregory Markey, 35 Indianapolis, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl	168 months (14 years) 5 years supervised release
L.C. Moore, II, 31 Indianapolis, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl	120 months (5 years) 5 years supervised release
Dominique Baquet, 31 Indianapolis, IN	Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery	57 months (4.7 years) 3 years supervised release
Antonio DeJarnett, 36 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine	264 months (22 years) 5 years supervised release
Ryan Pinkston, 42 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Felon in Possession of Ammunition	240 months (20 years) 5 years supervised release
Robert Embry, 46 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	60 months (5 years) 5 years supervised release
Becky Edwards, 39 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	120 months (10 years) 5 years supervised release
Edward Meredith, 59 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	120 months (10 years) 5 years supervised release
Joshua Wilson, 33 Evansville, IN	Use of a Communication Facility with the Intent to Commit or Facilitate the Distribution of Methamphetamine	30 months (2.5 years) No supervised release
Tabitha Seabeck, 32 Henderson, KY	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine	180 months (15 years) 5 years supervised release
Zachary Addison, 42 Evansville, IN	Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Felon in Possession of a Firearm	300 months (25 years) 5 years supervised release

Defendant

Charge(s)

Prison Sentence

Jeramey Smith, 35
Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery

240 months (20 years)

5 years supervised release

Julian Green, 36

Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

210 months (17.5 years)

Indianapolis, IN

Hannah Kissel, 28

Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

97 months (8 years)

3 years supervised release

Jordan Wilson, 41

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

216 months (15.7 years)

5 years supervised release

Timothy Rice, 35

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

204 months (17 years)

5 years supervised release

Archilles Johnson, 40

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Deonte Howard, 36

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Julie Hunt, 37

Petersburg, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

60 months (5 years)

3 years supervised release

Torrance Mimms, 34

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Keisha Jewell, 40

Princeton, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

108 years (9 years)

3 years supervised release

Davion Hays, 38

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

144 months (12 years)

5 years supervised release

Jason Mitchell, 43

Henderson, KY

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

204 months (17 years)

5 years supervised release

Denny Taylor, 49

Princeton, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Aaron Hardiman, 42

Princeton, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl

120 months (10 years)

5 years supervised release

Roman Wills, 43

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Michael Sanders, 48

Owensboro, KY

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

168 months (14 years)

5 years supervised release

Gregory Snyder, 62

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

36 months (3 years)

4 years supervised release

Joshua Gahagan, 41

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Gregory Markey, 35

Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

168 months (14 years)

5 years supervised release

L.C. Moore, II, 31

Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

120 months (5 years)

5 years supervised release

Dominique Baquet, 31

Indianapolis, IN

Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery

57 months (4.7 years)

3 years supervised release

Antonio DeJarnett, 36

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

264 months (22 years)

5 years supervised release

Ryan Pinkston, 42

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Felon in Possession of Ammunition

240 months (20 years)

5 years supervised release

Robert Embry, 46

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

60 months (5 years)

5 years supervised release

Becky Edwards, 39

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

120 months (10 years)

5 years supervised release

Edward Meredith, 59

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

120 months (10 years)

5 years supervised release

Joshua Wilson, 33

Evansville, IN

Use of a Communication Facility with the Intent to Commit or Facilitate the Distribution of Methamphetamine

30 months (2.5 years)

No supervised release

Tabitha Seabeck, 32

Henderson, KY

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

180 months (15 years)

5 years supervised release

Zachary Addison, 42

Evansville, IN

Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

300 months (25 years)

5 years supervised release

“The members of this conspiracy will spend decades in federal prison for pumping pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl onto our streets,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Drug use devastates so many families and kills hundreds of Hoosiers every year. That’s why we will work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to dismantle armed organizations trafficking in deadly drugs. The sentences imposed in this case demonstrate our continued commitment to protecting the public from these dangerous criminals.”

“Dismantling a major drug trafficking organization that was responsible for distributing multi-hundred-pound quantities of methamphetamine and kilogram quantities of fentanyl onto the streets of Indiana was a big win for law enforcement. Because of the exceptional collaborative efforts by law enforcement, we were able to achieve this remarkable outcome,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon. “This investigation was a wonderful victory for all Hoosiers and sends a crystal-clear message to major drug dealers we will continue working together with our partners to dismantle their illicit operations.”

“This sentencing is a significant victory in the relentless fight against the trafficking of deadly drugs and underscores the FBI’s commitment to pursue those who wreak havoc on our communities through their illegal drug trade,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who endanger public safety and contribute to this crisis are held accountable.”

“I would like to thank the dedicated Evansville Police Officers and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office Deputies as well as our federal partners in the DEA and US Attorney’s Office for their roles in getting these individuals off our streets. The manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl have brought death and destruction to our communities and have done irreversible damage to families in the worst way possible. This community will not tolerate that kind of behavior and illegal activity, and we will use every resource available to us to stop it and put dealers behind bars.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Evansville Resident Office, with the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Evansville Vanderburgh County Joint Task Force, DEA Indianapolis and Indianapolis Metro Drug Task Force providing valuable assistance. The sentenced were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman.

Acting U.S. Attorney John E. Childress thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Wheatley and Jeremy Kemper, who prosecuted this case.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.

One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.

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MIL Security OSI –

February 5, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Ghana Armed Forces, US Army launch first strategic communication workshop

Source: United States Army

Members of the Ghana Armed Forces and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) personnel pose for a group photo outside the Dohazari Auditorium in Accra, Ghana, on Jan. 31, 2025. The exchange signifies the ongoing partnership and collaboration between the two forces, aimed at enhancing military cooperation and joint operations.(Photo courtesy of Ghana Armed Forces) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

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U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa

ACCRA, Ghana – The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), strengthened their partnership through a strategic communication and information warfare exchange at Burma Camp, Ghana, Jan. 28-31.

The military exchange, part of a broader initiative to promote peace through strength, aimed to enhance both forces’ ability to navigate modern warfare, where information plays a critical role in operational success.

“Working alongside the GAF this week is a unique and rewarding experience, as it fosters a deep sense of camaraderie and mutual respect,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kevin Ong, SETAF-AF.

“It’s not just about sharing tactics or best practices; it’s about learning from each other’s strengths and building lasting partnerships that transcend borders.”

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kevin Ong, left, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), sits with Ghana Armed Forces Brig. Gen. Eric Aggrey-Quashie, director general at the Department of Public Relations, and U.S. Army Maj. Tyler Claus, SETAF-AF, during the opening ceremony at Dohazari Auditorium in Accra, Ghana, Jan 31, 2025. The exchange signifies the ongoing partnership and collaboration between the two forces, aimed at enhancing military cooperation and joint operations. (Photo courtesy of Ghana Armed Forces) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

The exchange featured workshops and seminars on information operations, psychological operations and public affairs in both conflict and peacetime. Participants discussed techniques for countering misinformation, engaging with local communities and ensuring transparency to maintain public trust.

The exchange also focused on capacity building, equipping forces with the skills needed to operate effectively in information warfare scenarios.

GAF Brig. Gen. Eric Aggrey-Quashie, the director general at the Department of Public Relations, urged participants to take advantage of the exchange to enhance their technical and critical thinking skills in public relations and influence their awareness of managing and disseminating information to the public.

Ghana Armed Forces Brig. Gen.l Eric Aggrey-Quashie, director general at the Department of Public Relations, gives opening remarks during the opening ceremony at Dohazari Auditorium in Accra, Ghana, Jan. 31, 2025. The exchange signifies the ongoing partnership and collaboration between the two forces, aimed at enhancing military cooperation and joint operations.(Photo courtesy of Ghana Armed Forces) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

During the exchange, participants discussed past information operations, crisis communication simulations as well as integrating these lessons into daily military practices. Both sides emphasized the need to evolve military training to address unconventional threats, aligning with the philosophy of peace through strength.

The concept of peace through strength was a key theme throughout the engagement. Leaders from both nations agreed that a strong, well-informed military presence could deter aggression while promoting stability.

“Information warfare is an evolving battlefield, and our ability to control the narrative can shape the outcome of conflicts before they even begin,” said U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Kara Obrien, a team leader assigned to 321st Tactical Psychological Company, 13th Psychological Operations Battalion, 2nd Psychological Operations Group.

“This exchange reinforces the importance of proactive communication strategies in maintaining stability and deterring misinformation.”

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kara Obrien, a team leader assigned to the U.S Army Reserve 321st Tactical Psychological Company, 13th Psychological Operations Battalion, 2nd Psychological Operations Group, discusses best practices for key leader engagements at Dohazari Auditorium in Accra, Ghana, Jan. 31, 2025. The exchange signifies the ongoing partnership and collaboration between the two forces, aimed at enhancing military cooperation and joint operations. (Photo courtesy of Ghana Armed Forces) (Photo Credit: Courtesy) VIEW ORIGINAL

This collaboration between GAF and SETAF-AF highlights a shared commitment to enhancing military readiness while fostering stability through strategic communication and capacity building. As modern conflicts increasingly revolve around the control and dissemination of information, initiatives like this play a pivotal role in maintaining peace and security.

About SETAF-AF

SETAF-AF prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition, and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

MIL OSI USA News –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Click announced the CEO Statement

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Hong Kong, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Click Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: CLIK) (“Click” or the “Company” or “we” or “our”), a fast-growing human resources solutions provider based in Hong Kong, would like to share the joy and happiness of the Lunar Chinese New Year with all our shareholders, customers and business partners. As we drew a close to the Year of Dragon, our CEO, Mr. Chan Chun Sing, Jeffrey would like to report to you our numerous key achievements in 2024 and share his visions for the year ahead.

“2024 was a remarkable year for Click.” said Jeffrey, founder and CEO of Click. “Not only did we accomplish the historical public listing by raising US$5.6 million on Nasdaq, we also achieved countless breakthroughs in our business.”

“We experienced significant growth across all segments. As for the seniors nursing solution services, we achieved a record of over 170,000 service hours in calendar year 2024, expecting a growth of 60% as compared to that of 2023. In particular, we project our logistic solution services would record a spectacular growth of 90%. To further extend our coverage, in December 2024, we entered a cooperation agreement with Care U Professional Nursing Service Limited, one of the leading nursing service providers in Hong Kong, in order to tap into the prominent government-sponsored CCSV scheme aiming to provide community care services to senior citizens in Hong Kong.”

Key 2024 Achievements

– Strong growth in revenue – projected 40% surge in overall revenue in calendar year 2024 compared to that of 2023. We project both our nursing and logistics solutions segment recorded strong growth of 30% and 90% respectively.

– Successfully raised US$5.6M of capital from listing

– Tapping into home seniors nursing service through government-sponsored CCSV scheme

Outlook for 2025 and Beyond

“While unemployment rate in Hong Kong stays low at around 3%, a change in working habit such as freelancers and slashers, is believed to be permanent. Therefore, we continue to expect high demand of human resources outsourcing services in the market. Meanwhile, as aging population becomes a global phenomenon, we will continue to invest big in the seniors nursing solution sector. We will expand our collaboration with business partners and may consider M&A options when opportunities arise.”

“Furthermore, embracing technology has always been a key to our success. Our CTO, Nixon Chau, former GM of SenseTime Group, a leading AI software company, will lead our team to expand into the smart home solutions market for seniors in Hong Kong. Needless to say, we will continue to invest in expanding our talent pool which has been the bedrock to our business, and will extend services to cover property management, food and beverages, and retailing, sectors all currently facing labour shortages in Hong Kong. We are currently the only Nasdaq-listed company focusing on seniors nursing HR solution in Hong Kong and will continue to sustain strong growth by providing a convenient platform to connect our talents with our clients’ HR shortfall.”

“Looking ahead, I remain fully confident in all our business developments and I hope you feel the same. Last but not least, on behalf of Click, I would like to extend our warmest greetings to all our shareholders, customers and business partners, Kung Hei Fat Choy, wish you Good Health and Good Fortune in the Year of Snake ahead.” said Jeffrey.

About Click Holdings Limited

We are a fast-growing human resources solutions provider based in Hong Kong, aiming to match our client’s human resources shortfall through our proprietary AI-empowered talent pool by one “click”. Our key businesses primarily include nursing solution (mainly seniors) services, logistics solution services and professional solution services.

For more information, please visit https://clicksc.com.hk.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.

For enquiry, please contact:

Click Holdings Limited
Unit 709, 7/F., Ocean Centre
5 Canton Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Hong Kong
Email: jack.wong@jfy.hk
Phone: +852 2691 8200

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: New Horizons for International Tourism Education: GUU and RIAT Sign Cooperation Agreement

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

On February 4, 2024, an agreement was signed between the State University of Management and the Russian International Academy of Tourism.

On behalf of GUU, the agreement was signed by Rector Vladimir Stroyev, on behalf of RIAT – by Rector Evgeny Trofimov. Also present at the meeting were Vice-Rector of our university Maria Karelina, Director of the Institute of Personnel Management, Social and Business Communications of GUU Alexey Chudnovsky, Vice-Rector and Dean of the Faculty of Tourism Management of RIAT Elena Aliluyko, Vice-Rector for Development of Master’s and Postgraduate Programs of the Academy of Tourism Tatyana Rassokhina and Director of the Center for International Educational Programs, Projects and Public Relations of RIAT Alexey Ryabov.

Welcoming the guests, Vladimir Stroyev noted that the Russian International Academy of Tourism has always been one of the leaders in its specialized sector. Now the state pays special attention to this area. Despite the fact that the key area for the State University of Management is industry management, tourism disciplines in the Institute of Management and Budgetary Culture are also in demand, so it makes sense to strengthen work in this area. Speaking about the international activities of the State University of Management, the rector reported that our university has a secretariat of the Eurasian Network University, which has recently been joined by educational institutions in Transnistria and Cuba, and Iran is showing increasing interest.

“In addition to love and friendship, ESU also has material contours: 345 places for additional professional education, a budgetary master’s program, the Eurasian Olympiad,” Vladimir Vitalyevich shared. The rector also spoke about the university’s work within the BRICS Business School and the foreign internships organized by the State University of Management for graduates of the Presidential Program for the Training of Management Personnel for the Organization of the National Economy of the Russian Federation – “also entrepreneurial tourism.”

Rector of the Russian Academic Materiel Union Evgeny Trofimov briefly spoke about the 55-year history of the academy, complained about the objective difficulties in developing international cooperation related to the geopolitical situation in the world, but at the same time noted the successes in maintaining business ties with the largest European universities and international tourism organizations, which warmly congratulated the Russian Academic Materiel Union on its anniversary in May. Some joint programs were successfully defended and will continue to operate. In addition, new agreements were signed with universities in India and the Philippines. Evgeny Nikolaevich reported that during the crisis in relations, the academy added new programs to its portfolio of educational services: customs, law, logistics, design and architecture. In total, the Russian Academic Materiel Union currently trains students in 28 areas. The academy has six branches: in Yerevan, Kazan, Pskov, two in the Moscow region and one in Moscow, at the Izmailovo hotel complex. Secondary vocational education is growing rapidly; the number of graduates has recently increased from 60 to 750 people per year.

Vladimir Stroyev specifically focused on the development of network educational programs at the State University of Management: “We clearly understood that no university, even a large and state-owned one, can advance its agenda alone. Universities now face so many important tasks that it is very difficult to cope with them on their own. Only together are we strong.”

Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Maria Karelina told the guests that Vladimir Stroyev and Alexey Chudnovsky were awarded the state prize in the field of education for organizing and conducting the “University Shifts” program, which is also related to tourism.

Alexey Chudnovsky thanked his colleagues for the visit and noted their long-term joint work on international programs. It is natural that our universities came to sign a cooperation agreement. First of all, the emphasis will be on combining efforts to develop international educational programs.

“They are of interest to your and our students, so we are taking the first step towards network agreements that will expand coverage and provide an opportunity to use each other’s network programs. Tourism is a messenger of peace, it must be taken seriously. We have something to offer each other, we are opening a second wind to international relations in the field of education and will work on additional agreements to give more opportunities to our common students,” Alexey Danilovich summed up the meeting.

Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/04/2025

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How food can be used to support people living with dementia

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Navjot Gill-Chawla, Doctoral Candidate, Aging, Health and Well-being, University of Waterloo

From the aroma of freshly ground spices to the rhythmic sounds of a mortar and pestle, food evokes strong sensory memories, making it a powerful tool in dementia care. (Shutterstock)

As dementia rates rise globally, families and care partners are seeking ways to maintain meaningful connections with loved ones experiencing memory loss. In many cultures, food is central to cultural identity and family life.

Cooking traditional recipes can also a unique way to evoke memories and foster social connections. Familiar flavours, scents and cooking techniques can provide support and comfort to those living with dementia.

In South Asian cultures, food is deeply intertwined with identity, memory and relationships. From the aroma of freshly ground spices to the rhythmic sounds of a mortar and pestle, food evokes strong sensory memories, making it a powerful tool in dementia care.

When it comes to supporting people with dementia, food and cooking can be culturally relevant ways to enhance well-being, strengthen inter-generational bonds and preserve identity — making them an increasingly important tools in dementia care.

My research focuses on understanding the experiences of people living with dementia and their care partners in South Asian communities, and the importance of culturally inclusive care for dementia.

Food and memory

The connection between food and memory is well-documented. For individuals living with dementia who often experience memory loss and disorientation, familiar foods can trigger memories of specific events, places or people. For example, the scent of ghee-laden parathas or the sight of turmeric-coloured curries may evoke memories of childhood kitchens, family celebrations or community gatherings.

In South Asian communities, food is a cornerstone of cultural identity. Dishes are often tied to regional traditions, religious practices, and family legacies. For individuals living with dementia, preparing or consuming familiar foods can provide a sense of stability and continuity.

A person with dementia may find comfort in the ritual of making chai, even if they forget other aspects of their daily routine. Similarly, they might find joy in tasting the traditional foods of their region.

Dementia care often involves strategies that engage the senses to improve quality of life. Food offers a multi-sensory experience — taste, smell, touch, sight and even sound. For South Asian older adults, the act of rolling dough for rotis, smelling fragrant basmati rice or hearing the crackle of mustard seeds in hot oil can stimulate the senses and provide therapeutic benefits.

Engaging individuals in food preparation can also help maintain fine motor skills and foster a sense of purpose. Even simple tasks like peeling garlic, mixing spices or stirring a pot can provide opportunities for engagement and connection. Importantly, these activities do not need to be perfect — the process itself is valuable.

In cultures around the world, meals are rarely solitary. Food is inherently social, often prepared and shared among family members. For individuals living with dementia, mealtime can be an opportunity to strengthen familial bonds and reduce feelings of isolation. Sharing a meal allows care partners and family members to engage in meaningful interactions, even if verbal communication is limited.

Inter-generational cooking can be particularly engaging. Grandparents living with dementia can pass on recipes to their grandchildren, creating moments of joy and preserving cultural heritage. These interactions help younger generations understand dementia while fostering empathy and appreciation for their elders.

Adapting for dementia care

While traditional South Asian dishes can be comforting, they may need to be adapted for individuals living with dementia. For example, finger foods like pakoras or stuffed parathas can be easier to handle than dishes requiring utensils. Similarly, simplifying recipes with fewer ingredients or steps can make the cooking process more manageable for individuals living with dementia.

Nutritional considerations are also crucial. Many South Asian dishes are rich in fats, carbohydrates and spices, which may not align with the dietary needs of older adults. Modifying recipes to include more vegetables, lean proteins and lower salt levels can ensure that meals are both nutritious and culturally familiar.

Despite its benefits, using food as a tool for dementia care is not without challenges. Care partners often face time constraints, lack of resources or their own emotional burdens, which may limit their ability to engage in food-based activities. Additionally, some families may struggle to adapt traditional recipes, especially if they lack culinary skills or are unfamiliar with healthy substitutions.

Community support organizations can play a pivotal role in overcoming these barriers. Cooking workshops, memory cafés with food themes or culturally tailored resources can empower families to incorporate food into dementia care. For instance, community centres can organize events where older adults and care partners come together to prepare traditional meals, share recipes and build support networks.

Inter-generational cooking can be particularly engaging. Grandparents living with dementia can pass on recipes to their grandchildren, creating moments of joy and preserving cultural heritage.
(Shutterstock)

Culturally tailored dementia care

Integrating food into dementia care underscores the importance of culturally tailored approaches. Incorporating cultural elements like food acknowledges the holistic needs of individuals and their families. Health-care providers and community organizations must prioritize cultural humility, recognizing the unique role that food plays in the lives of South Asian families living with dementia.

In the journey of dementia care, food is more than a tool for nourishment. For South Asian communities, it is a source of connection, identity and healing. By integrating food into care practices, families and care partners can unlock its potential to evoke memories, strengthen relationships and improve the well-being of individuals living with dementia.

With culturally sensitive support and resources, food can become a powerful ally in navigating the complexities of dementia care, one bite, one memory and one story at a time.

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

– ref. How food can be used to support people living with dementia – https://theconversation.com/how-food-can-be-used-to-support-people-living-with-dementia-248731

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Kinematics Strengthens Global Leadership in Solar Tracker Intelligence with Completion of P4Q Acquisition

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PHOENIX, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kinematics, a global leader in intelligent motion control, today announced the successful completion of its acquisition of P4Q. By integrating P4Q’s high-performance electronics portfolio—including over 1 million solar controllers deployed across 2,400 solar sites globally—with Kinematics’ installed base of 2.9 million solar actuators, the combined company becomes the world’s largest supplier of motion control technology for solar trackers supporting more than 134 gigawatts of solar installations worldwide.

Kinematics has gained P4Q’s expertise in full-stack electronics, including their market-leading tracker controls brand, Suntrack^®, to complement its innovative actuation systems. This acquisition allows Kinematics to provide a complete solution for solar tracker motion technology, simplifying design integration and supply for solar tracker OEMs, enabling the most advanced tracking systems for future installations and providing asset owners a path toward upgrading outdated systems.

“This acquisition creates increased scale, expanded global support, and unified motion control solutions,” said John Payne, CEO of Kinematics. “By combining our strengths, we’re setting new standards for intelligent solar tracking technology. Our expanded portfolio of solutions will improve solar plant production, increase reliability, and enhance value to accelerate the growth and adoption of solar energy on a global scale.”

“Our integration into Kinematics will enhance our business and create new opportunities for our team. Innovation is in our DNA, and we will continue providing disruptive solutions to our clients as well as excellent service,” said Aitor Alapont, CEO of P4Q.

A cornerstone of the combined offering is P4Q’s revolutionary Self-Powered Plus (SPP) Controller Technology. This innovative solution eliminates the need for traditional pony panels, freeing up space on the tracker surface, and reducing both capital expenditure and installation complexity, while also offering superior power availability under low irradiance conditions.

The acquisition builds on Kinematics’ recent innovations in motion control, including the breakthrough ST Series actuators launched in 2024. Featuring a maintenance-free design, the ST Series delivers up to 50% more holding torque in a smaller form factor, enhancing solar tracker performance and reliability – capabilities that will be further strengthened through the integration of both companies.

“This milestone will create synergies, expand our portfolio of products and services, and optimize our global operations, undoubtedly providing a significant boost to all our business verticals,” said Noemí Pérez, Commercial Director at P4Q.

The combined company will be headquartered in the U.S. with R&D in the U.S., Europe, and APAC. Kinematics will now have six manufacturing centers, including the U.S. and Europe, and seven service centers located globally.

About Kinematics
Founded in 1996, Kinematics is a global leader in precision motion control solutions, specializing in the design and manufacture of slew drives, slew rings, and actuation technology. With a strong focus on renewable energy, Kinematics supplies critical engineered systems, sensors, gears, and controllers that maximize the efficiency of solar installations worldwide, along with applications for the mobile industrial and satellite ground station sectors. The company is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, and operates globally with facilities in Asia and North America.

About P4Q
P4Q is a premier provider of IoT solutions, specializing in electronic devices, communication technologies, and cloud-based monitoring for solar tracking systems, medical diagnostic equipment, and more. The company also supports industries such as railway and industrial electronics. Renowned for its commitment to innovation and high-performance solutions, P4Q has established a strong reputation for excellence, particularly in the solar energy sector. Headquartered in Spain, P4Q serves clients across Europe, the Americas, and beyond.

Press Contact:
Matt Clarke
matt@teamsilverline.com
301.467.7332

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a835f342-87fb-45f3-a382-21134f6fc8a4

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: IXCHIQ vaccine approved to protect adults against Chikungunya
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today, 4 February 2025, approved the vaccine chikungunya vaccine (live) (brand name IXCHIQ) to protect adults against chikungunya disease, caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV).
CHIKV is found in the subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, Southeast Asia, India, and the Pacific Region, and is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). It cannot be passed from human to human.

The majority of people infected with CHIKV develop a sudden fever and severe pain in multiple joints. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. These symptoms typically resolve within 7 to 10 days, and most patients make a full recovery. However, in some cases joint pain and arthritis may persist for several months or even years. Occasional cases of eye, neurological and heart complications have been reported, as well as gastrointestinal complaints.

Chikungunya vaccine has been approved for use as a prophylaxis against chikungunya disease. The vaccine contains a form of the virus that has been weakened in the laboratory so it cannot multiply. The vaccine works by training the immune system (the body’s natural defences) to recognise CHIKV and it is then able to produce specific antibodies which attack the virus.

Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

Patient safety is our top priority, which is why I am pleased to confirm approval of the first vaccine in the UK to protect adults 18 years and older against Chikungunya disease.  It is given as a single dose.

While mostly endemic to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Americas, the virus has been detected in small numbers in new geographical areas including parts of Europe. It is therefore important we are prepared for potential further spread. 

This approval is another demonstration of our commitment to supporting the UK in its efforts toward global pandemic preparedness. 

As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review.

The recommended dose of chikungunya vaccine (live) can only be obtained via a prescription.

The benefits of chikungunya vaccine (live) were assessed in two main studies involving around 4,500 adults. In one main study, over 4,000 people were given the vaccine or a placebo (a dummy treatment).

The aim of the study was to determine whether the vaccine would trigger the immune system to produce a level of antibodies that, based on pre-clinical studies and information from people previously exposed to the virus who had developed immunity, is expected to provide protection.

Results showed that 99% of participants who received chikungunya vaccine (live) had the required level of antibodies after one month, compared with none of those who received placebo. Follow-up data showed that two years after vaccination, this target level was maintained in 97% of people who received the vaccine.

During clinical studies, the most common side effects with   chikungunya vaccine (live) (which may affect more than 1 in 10 people) include leucopenia, neutropenia and lymphopenia (low levels of white blood cells, including neutrophils and lymphocytes, as seen in blood tests), headache, fatigue, myalgia (muscle pain), joint pain (arthralgia), elevated liver enzymes as seen in blood tests, fever, nausea (feeling sick), and tenderness, pain, erythema (redness), induration (hardening) or swelling at the site of injection.

As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine under close review. 

Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this vaccine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.   

 ENDS   

Notes to editors   

The new marketing authorisation was granted on 4 February 2025 to VALNEVA AUSTRIA GMBH

The vaccine has been approved by the MHRA under the International Recognition Procedure, after confirming it meets the UK regulator’s standards of safety, quality, and effectiveness.

More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval. 

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 

The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 

For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

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Updates to this page

Published 4 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Staff Issues No-Action Letter to Korea Exchange Concerning the Offer or Sale of KOSPI and Mini KOSPI 200 Futures Contracts

Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

CFTC Staff Issues No-Action Letter to Korea Exchange Concerning the Offer or Sale of KOSPI and Mini KOSPI 200 Futures Contracts | CFTC

/PressRoom/PressReleases/9043-25
Skip to main content

February 04, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Market Oversight today issued a no-action letter stating it will not recommend the CFTC take enforcement action against Korea Exchange (KRX) for the offer or sale of Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) 200 Futures Contracts and Mini KOSPI 200 Futures Contracts to persons located within the United State while the Commission’s review of KRX’s forthcoming request for certification of the contracts under CFTC Regulation 30.13 is pending. DMO issued similar letters when the KOSPI 200 became a broad-based security index in 2021 and 2022. [See CFTC Press Release Nos. 8464-21 and 8610-22]
The KOSPI 200 became a narrow-based security index in February 2024. Futures contracts on narrow-based security indexes are subject to joint CFTC and Securities and Exchange Commission jurisdiction. Futures contracts on non-narrow-based (also known as broad-based) security indexes are subject to exclusive CFTC jurisdiction.
The KOSPI 200 is set to become a broad-based security index on February 6, 2025, and the no-action position in DMO’s letter will be effective on that date.

-CFTC-

MIL OSI USA News –

February 5, 2025

MIL-OSI: First Financial Corporation Reports 2024 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TERRE HAUTE, Ind., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:THFF) today announced results for the fourth quarter of 2024.

Net income was $16.2 million compared to $12.4 million reported for the same period of 2023;
Diluted net income per common share of $1.37 compared to $1.06 for the same period of 2023;
Return on average assets was 1.18% compared to 1.05% for the three months ended December 31, 2023;
Credit loss provision was $2.0 million compared to provision of $2.5 million for the fourth quarter 2023; and
Pre-tax, pre-provision net income was $22.3 million compared to $16.6 million for the same period in 2023.¹

The Corporation further reported results for the year ended December 31, 2024:

Net income was $47.3 million compared to $60.7 million reported for the same period of 2023;
Diluted net income per common share of $4.00 compared to $5.08 for the same period of 2023;
Return on average assets was 0.92% compared to 1.26% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023;
Credit loss provision was $16.2 million compared to provision of $7.3 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023; and
Pre-tax, pre-provision net income was $73.4 million compared to $79.7 million for the same period in 2023.¹

______________________________
¹Non-GAAP financial measure that Management believes is useful for investors and management to understand pre-tax profitability before giving effect to credit loss expense and to provide additional perspective on the Corporation’s performance over time as well as comparison to the Corporation’s peers and evaluating the financial results of the Corporation – please refer to the Non GAAP reconciliations contained in this release.

Average Total Loans

Average total loans for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $3.79 billion versus $3.13 billion for the comparable period in 2023, an increase of $657 million or 20.98%. On a linked quarter basis, average loans increased $84.7 million or 2.29% from $3.71 billion as of September 30, 2024. Increases in average loans year-over-year were mostly a result of the acquisition of SimplyBank on July 1, 2024.

Total Loans Outstanding

Total loans outstanding as of December 31, 2024, were $3.84 billion compared to $3.17 billion as of December 31, 2023, an increase of $669 million or 21.13%. On a linked quarter basis, total loans increased $122 million or 3.28% from $3.72 billion as of September 30, 2024. The year-over-year increase was impacted by the $467 million in loans acquired in the SimplyBank acquisition. Organic growth was primarily driven by increases in Commercial Construction and Development, Commercial Real Estate, and Consumer Auto loans.

Norman D. Lowery, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented “We experienced another sound quarter of loan growth and record net interest income. During the quarter our net interest margin expanded, and we expect continued improvement in coming quarters.”

Average Total Deposits

Average total deposits for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, were $4.76 billion versus $4.05 billion as of December 31, 2023, an increase of $706 million or 17.44%. Increases in average deposits year-over-year were mostly a result of the acquisition of SimplyBank. On a linked quarter basis, average deposits increased $52 million, or 1.10% from $4.71 billion as of September 30, 2024.

Total Deposits

Total deposits were $4.72 billion as of December 31, 2024, compared to $4.09 billion as of December 31, 2023, a $629 million increase, or 15.37%. On a linked quarter basis, total deposits increased $1.4 million, or 0.03%. $622 million in deposits were acquired in the SimplyBank acquisition. Non-interest bearing deposits were $859.0 million, and time deposits were $749.4 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $750.3 million and $515.7 million, respectively for the same period of 2023.

Shareholders’ Equity

Shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2024, was $549.0 million compared to $528.0 million on December 31, 2023. During the last twelve months, the Corporation has not repurchased any shares of its common stock. 518,860 shares remain available for repurchase under the current repurchase authorization. The Corporation paid a $0.45 per share quarterly dividend in October and declared a $0.51 quarterly dividend, which was paid on January 15, 2025.

Book Value Per Share

Book Value per share was $46.36 as of December 31, 2024, compared to $44.76 as of December 31, 2023, an increase of $1.60 per share, or 3.57%. Tangible Book Value per share was $36.10 as of December 31, 2024, compared to $36.91 as of December 31, 2023.

Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Asset Ratio

The Corporation’s tangible common equity to tangible asset ratio was 7.86% at December 31, 2024, compared to 9.15% at December 31, 2023.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was a record $49.6 million, compared to $39.6 million reported for the same period of 2023, an increase of $10.0 million, or 25.29%.

Net Interest Margin

The net interest margin for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, was 3.94% compared to the 3.63% reported at December 31, 2023. On a linked quarterly basis, the net interest margin increased 16 basis points from 3.78% at September 30, 2024.

Nonperforming Loans

Nonperforming loans as of December 31, 2024, were $13.3 million versus $24.6 million as of December 31, 2023. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans and leases was 0.35% as of December 31, 2024, versus 0.78% as of December 31, 2023. The decrease in nonperforming loans is due to a commercial relationship that was downgraded in fourth quarter 2023 and subsequently resolved in 2024.

Credit Loss Provision

The provision for credit losses for the three months ended December 31, 2024, was $2.0 million, compared to $2.5 million for the fourth quarter 2023.

Net Charge-Offs

Fourth quarter net charge-offs were $1.4 million compared to $1.8 million in the same period of 2023.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The Corporation’s allowance for credit losses as of December 31, 2024, was $46.7 million compared to $39.8 million as of December 31, 2023. The allowance for credit losses as a percent of total loans was 1.22% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 1.26% as of December 31, 2023. On a linked quarter basis, the allowance for credit losses as a percent of total loans decreased 2 basis points from 1.24% as of September 30, 2024. The Corporation recorded $8.5 million in allowance for the acquisition of SimplyBank, which included $3 million to record purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) reserves.

Non-Interest Income

Non-interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $12.2 million and $11.2 million, respectively.

Non-Interest Expense

Non-interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2024, was $39.8 million compared to $34.2 million in 2023. This includes an overall increase in operating expenses as a result of the acquisition.

Efficiency Ratio

The Corporation’s efficiency ratio was 62.98% for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, versus 65.62% for the same period in 2023.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense for the three months ended December 31, 2024, was $3.8 million versus $1.7 million for the same period in 2023. The effective tax rate for 2024 was 17.28% compared to 16.31% for 2023.

About First Financial Corporation

First Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:THFF) is the holding company for First Financial Bank N.A., which is the fifth oldest national bank in the United States, operating 83 banking centers in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia. Additional information is available at www.first-online.bank.

Investor Contact:
Rodger A. McHargue
Chief Financial Officer
P: 812-238-6334
E: rmchargue@first-online.com



	Three Months Ended						Year Ended
	December 31,		September 30,		December 31,		December 31,		December 31,
	2024		2024		2023		2024		2023
END OF PERIOD BALANCES
Assets	$	5,560,348	$	5,483,351	$	4,851,146	$	5,560,348	$	4,851,146
Deposits	$	4,718,914	$	4,717,489	$	4,090,068	$	4,718,914	$	4,090,068
Loans, including net deferred loan costs	$	3,837,141	$	3,715,235	$	3,167,821	$	3,837,141	$	3,167,821
Allowance for Credit Losses	$	46,732	$	46,169	$	39,767	$	46,732	$	39,767
Total Equity	$	549,041	$	565,951	$	527,976	$	549,041	$	527,976
Tangible Common Equity ^(a)	$	427,470	$	446,786	$	435,405	$	427,470	$	435,405

AVERAGE BALANCES
Total Assets	$	5,516,036	$	5,483,572	$	4,725,297	$	5,154,320	$	4,802,448
Earning Assets	$	5,196,352	$	5,165,520	$	4,485,766	$	4,871,293	$	4,564,135
Investments	$	1,311,415	$	1,342,037	$	1,279,821	$	1,310,263	$	1,358,661
Loans	$	3,790,515	$	3,705,779	$	3,133,267	$	3,468,534	$	3,111,784
Total Deposits	$	4,757,438	$	4,705,614	$	4,050,968	$	4,405,679	$	4,106,132
Interest-Bearing Deposits	$	3,925,740	$	4,403,454	$	3,291,931	$	3,767,259	$	3,304,816
Interest-Bearing Liabilities	$	134,553	$	157,227	$	206,778	$	166,377	$	199,551
Total Equity	$	556,330	$	546,912	$	463,004	$	535,963	$	486,572

INCOME STATEMENT DATA
Net Interest Income	$	49,602	$	47,170	$	39,590	$	174,986	$	167,262
Net Interest Income Fully Tax Equivalent ^(b)	$	50,985	$	48,630	$	40,942	$	180,586	$	172,716
Provision for Credit Losses	$	2,000	$	9,400	$	2,495	$	16,166	$	7,295
Non-interest Income	$	12,213	$	11,223	$	11,247	$	42,772	$	42,702
Non-interest Expense	$	39,801	$	38,564	$	34,244	$	144,438	$	130,176
Net Income	$	16,241	$	8,741	$	12,420	$	47,275	$	60,672

PER SHARE DATA
Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share	$	1.37	$	0.74	$	1.06	$	4.00	$	5.08
Cash Dividends Declared Per Common Share	$	0.51	$	0.45	$	0.45	$	1.86	$	0.99
Book Value Per Common Share	$	46.36	$	47.93	$	44.76	$	46.36	$	44.76
Tangible Book Value Per Common Share ^(c)	$	36.77	$	36.22	$	31.47	$	36.10	$	36.91
Basic Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding		11,824		11,808		11,772		11,812		11,937

______________________________
(a)   Tangible common equity is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible common equity by excluding goodwill and other intangible assets from shareholder’s equity.
(b)   Net interest income fully tax equivalent is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate net interest income fully tax equivalent by adding back the tax equivalent factor of tax exempt income to net interest income. We calculate the tax equivalent factor of tax exempt income by dividing tax exempt income by the net of tax rate of 75%.
(c)   Tangible book value per common share is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate the factor by dividing average tangible common equity by average shares outstanding. We calculate average tangible common equity by excluding average intangible assets from average shareholder’s equity.


Key Ratios	Three Months Ended						Year Ended
	December 31,		September 30,		December 31,		December 31,		December 31,
	2024		2024		2023		2024		2023
Return on average assets	1.18	%	0.64	%	1.05	%	0.92	%	1.26	%
Return on average common shareholder’s equity	11.68	%	6.39	%	10.73	%	8.82	%	12.47	%
Efficiency ratio	62.98	%	64.43	%	65.62	%	64.67	%	60.43	%
Average equity to average assets	10.09	%	9.97	%	9.80	%	10.40	%	10.13	%
Net interest margin ^(a)	3.94	%	3.78	%	3.63	%	3.71	%	3.78	%
Net charge-offs to average loans and leases	0.15	%	0.49	%	0.22	%	0.35	%	0.23	%
Credit loss reserve to loans and leases	1.22	%	1.24	%	1.26	%	1.22	%	1.26	%
Credit loss reserve to nonperforming loans	351.37	%	326.65	%	161.94	%	351.37	%	161.94	%
Nonperforming loans to loans and leases	0.35	%	0.38	%	0.78	%	0.35	%	0.78	%
Tier 1 leverage	10.38	%	10.25	%	12.14	%	10.38	%	12.14	%
Risk-based capital – Tier 1	12.43	%	13.63	%	14.76	%	12.43	%	14.76	%

______________________________
(a) Net interest margin is calculated on a tax equivalent basis.


Asset Quality	Three Months Ended						Year Ended
	December 31,		September 30,		December 31,		December 31,		December 31,
	2024		2024		2023		2024		2023
Accruing loans and leases past due 30-89 days	$	22,486	$	16,391	$	20,168	$	22,486	$	20,168
Accruing loans and leases past due 90 days or more	$	1,821	$	1,517	$	960	$	1,821	$	960
Nonaccrual loans and leases	$	11,479	$	12,617	$	23,596	$	11,479	$	23,596
Other real estate owned	$	523	$	169	$	107	$	523	$	107
Nonperforming loans and other real estate owned	$	13,823	$	14,303	$	24,663	$	13,823	$	24,663
Total nonperforming assets	$	16,719	$	17,179	$	27,665	$	16,719	$	27,665
Gross charge-offs	$	3,070	$	6,936	$	3,976	$	19,289	$	15,496
Recoveries	$	1,633	$	2,365	$	2,213	$	7,082	$	8,188
Net charge-offs/(recoveries)	$	1,437	$	4,571	$	1,763	$	12,207	$	7,308


Non-GAAP Reconciliations	Three Months Ended December 31,
	2024		2023
($in thousands, except EPS)
Income before Income Taxes	$	20,014	$	14,098
Provision for credit losses		2,000		2,495
Provision for unfunded commitments		300		—
Pre-tax, Pre-provision Income	$	22,314	$	16,593


Non-GAAP Reconciliations	Year Ended December 31,
	2024		2023
($ in thousands, except EPS)
Income before Income Taxes	$	57,154	$	72,493
Provision for credit losses		16,166		7,295
Provision for unfunded commitments		100		(100	)
Pre-tax, Pre-provision Income	$	73,420	$	79,688


CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)

	December 31,			December 31,
	2024			2023
	(unaudited)
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks	$	93,526		$	76,759
Federal funds sold		820			282
Securities available-for-sale		1,195,990			1,259,137
Loans:
Commercial		2,196,351			1,817,526
Residential		967,386			695,788
Consumer		668,058			646,758
		3,831,795			3,160,072
(Less) plus:
Net deferred loan costs		5,346			7,749
Allowance for credit losses		(46,732	)		(39,767	)
		3,790,409			3,128,054
Restricted stock		17,555			15,364
Accrued interest receivable		26,934			24,877
Premises and equipment, net		81,508			67,286
Bank-owned life insurance		128,766			114,122
Goodwill		100,026			86,985
Other intangible assets		21,545			5,586
Other real estate owned		523			107
Other assets		102,746			72,587
TOTAL ASSETS	$	5,560,348		$	4,851,146

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Deposits:
Non-interest-bearing	$	859,014		$	750,335
Interest-bearing:
Certificates of deposit exceeding the FDIC insurance limits		144,982			92,921
Other interest-bearing deposits		3,714,918			3,246,812
		4,718,914			4,090,068
Short-term borrowings		187,057			67,221
FHLB advances		28,120			108,577
Other liabilities		77,216			57,304
TOTAL LIABILITIES		5,011,307			4,323,170

Shareholders’ equity
Common stock, $.125 stated value per share;
Authorized shares-40,000,000
Issued shares-16,165,023 in 2024 and 16,137,220 in 2023
Outstanding shares-11,842,539 in 2024 and 11,795,024 in 2023		2,018			2,014
Additional paid-in capital		145,927			144,152
Retained earnings		687,366			663,726
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)		(132,285	)		(127,087	)
Less: Treasury shares at cost-4,322,484 in 2024 and 4,342,196 in 2023		(153,985	)		(154,829	)
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY		549,041			527,976
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$	5,560,348		$	4,851,146


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)

	Year Ended
	December 31,
	2024			2023			2022
	(unaudited)
INTEREST INCOME:
Loans, including related fees	$	226,262		$	189,641		$	146,295
Securities:
Taxable		24,237			24,643			21,014
Tax-exempt		10,533			10,573			9,974
Other		3,710			3,540			6,018
TOTAL INTEREST INCOME		264,742			228,397			183,301
INTEREST EXPENSE:
Deposits		81,071			51,694			16,743
Short-term borrowings		4,284			5,370			1,243
Other borrowings		4,401			4,071			273
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE		89,756			61,135			18,259
NET INTEREST INCOME		174,986			167,262			165,042
Provision for credit losses		16,166			7,295			(2,025	)
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION
FOR LOAN LOSSES		158,820			159,967			167,067
NON-INTEREST INCOME:
Trust and financial services		5,468			5,155			5,155
Service charges and fees on deposit accounts		29,653			28,079			27,540
Other service charges and fees		999			801			665
Securities gains (losses), net		103			(1	)		3
Interchange income		655			676			559
Loan servicing fees		1,259			1,176			1,554
Gain on sales of mortgage loans		1,153			966			1,994
Other		3,482			5,850			9,246
TOTAL NON-INTEREST INCOME		42,772			42,702			46,716
NON-INTEREST EXPENSE:
Salaries and employee benefits		74,555			68,525			65,555
Occupancy expense		9,616			9,351			9,764
Equipment expense		17,612			14,020			12,391
FDIC Expense		2,788			2,907			2,327
Other		39,867			35,373			35,986
TOTAL NON-INTEREST EXPENSE		144,438			130,176			126,023
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES		57,154			72,493			87,760
Provision for income taxes		9,879			11,821			16,651
NET INCOME		47,275			60,672			71,109
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Change in unrealized gains/(losses) on securities, net of reclassifications and taxes		(9,807	)		10,896			(144,570	)
Change in funded status of post retirement benefits, net of taxes		4,609			1,991			7,022
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)	$	42,077		$	73,559		$	(66,439	)
PER SHARE DATA
Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share	$	4.00		$	5.08		$	5.82
Weighted average number of shares outstanding (in thousands)		11,812			11,937			12,211

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025

MIL-OSI: ThinkMarkets wins ‘Newcomer of the Year 2024’ at TradingView awards

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ThinkMarkets, a leading online trading provider, recently announced that it received an award from TradingView for ‘Newcomer of the Year 2024’.

The annual TradingView awards aim to recognize integrated brokers on its platform that are at the forefront of global online trading and have consistently demonstrated providing their users with the best service over the last 12 months.

TradingView selects the winner for its nominated categories based on a broker’s verified client reviews, feedback, and ratings, as well as client engagement, platform uptime, and more. This ensures all awards are authentic and that only the best brokers receive recognition.

Commenting on the news, co-CEO, Nauman Anees, said the following:

“We’re delighted to win this prestigious TradingView award. Despite launching on the platform only midway through the year in July 2024 and having to compete alongside other brokers that also joined that year, we’re thrilled to have made such an impact. We’ve received an overwhelmingly positive response from both new and existing clients eager to take advantage of this offering. We’re grateful that TradingView and the wider trading community have recognized our efforts with this award, and we’ll continue to expand and improve our offering to ensure we remain a leading choice among traders on TradingView.”

ThinkMarkets also took the opportunity to express a big thank you for the continued support from its clients, partners, and employees who have all helped in their efforts to achieve this prestigious award.

For more information and the latest updates, users can visit: www.thinkmarkets.com

About ThinkMarkets
ThinkMarkets is a global, multi-regulated online brokerage established in 2010 offering clients quick and easy access to 4,000+ CFD instruments across FX, indices, commodities, equities, and more. ThinkMarkets has offices in London, Dubai, Melbourne, and Tokyo and hubs in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and South Africa. It also operates with several financial licenses around the globe and delivers some of the industry’s most recognized trading platforms, including its award-winning platform, ThinkTrader.

Contact

ThinkMarkets
pr@thinkmarkets.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a0daee5a-f695-4bad-8f7e-faf0c960bd58

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Harbin venues ready for 9th Asian Winter Games

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

All competition venues are fully equipped and ready to host the 9th Asian Winter Games, scheduled for February 7-14 in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. All 13 competition venues have been renovated using existing facilities. While ensuring high-quality competitions, the event follows the principles of sustainability, cost-effectiveness and adaptability for post-event use. Yabuli Ski Resort is fully prepared, with all eight snow tracks ready, including alpine skiing and biathlon courses.

MIL OSI China News –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: ATIF Holdings Limited Announces Approximately $2.5 Million Registered Direct and Private Placement

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LAKE FOREST, Calif., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ATIF Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: ZBAI) (the “Company”), a Lake Forest-based business consulting company that specializes in providing professional IPO, M&A advisory and post-IPO compliance services to small and medium-sized companies seeking to go public on a stock exchange in the United States, today announced that it has entered into definitive agreements with an institutional investor for the purchase and sale of its ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share (“Ordinary Shares”) and pre-funded warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares (each, a “Pre-Funded Warrant”) in a registered direct offering. In a concurrent private placement, the Company also agreed to sell to the same investor warrants to purchase Ordinary Shares (the “Warrants”). Aggregate gross proceeds to the Company from both transactions are expected to be approximately $2.5 million.

The transactions consisted of the sale of 1,580,000 Ordinary Shares (each, a “Share”) and 887,553 Pre-Funded Warrants, each of which will be sold together with one Warrant to purchase one Ordinary Share per Warrant at an exercise price of $1.20. The offering price per Share is $1.00 (or $0.99 for each Pre-Funded Warrant, which is equal to the offering price per Share minus an exercise price of $0.01 per Pre-Funded Warrant). The Pre-Funded Warrants will be immediately exercisable and may be exercised at any time until exercised in full.

Aggregate gross proceeds to the Company are expected to be approximately $2.5 million. The transactions are expected to close on or about February 5, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The Company expects to use the net proceeds from the offerings, together with its existing cash, for general corporate purposes and working capital.

R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc. is acting as exclusive placement agent for the offerings. Hunter Taubman Fischer & Li LLC is acting as counsel to the Company. Lucosky Brookman LLP is acting as counsel to R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc.

The registered direct offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-268927) previously filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and declared effective by the SEC on March 21, 2023. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, by contacting R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc by email at offerings@rflafferty.com or via standard mail to R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc, 40 Wall Street, 27^th Floor, New York, NY10005.

The offer and sale of the securities in the private placement are being made in a transaction not involving a public offering and have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the securities may not be reoffered or resold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and such applicable state securities laws. The securities were offered only to accredited investors. Pursuant to the securities purchase agreement with the investors, the Company has agreed to file one or more registration statements with the SEC covering the resale of the Ordinary Shares issuable upon exercise of the Warrants.

Before investing in this offering, interested parties should read in their entirety the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and the other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC that are incorporated by reference in such prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, which provide more information about the Company and such offering.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About ZBAI

ATIF Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: ZBAI) is a Lake Forest-based business consulting company that specializes in providing professional IPO, M&A advisory and post-IPO compliance services to small and medium-sized companies seeking to go public on a stock exchange in the United States. The company has a proven track record in successfully delivering comprehensive U.S. IPO consulting services to clients primarily in the United States but also internationally. The mission of ZBAI is to provide one-stop, comprehensive consulting services that guide clients through the complex and often challenging process of going public. ZBAI recognizes the complexity and challenges associated with the process of going public, and endeavors to simplify it while ensuring optimal outcomes for its clients through its comprehensive consulting services. ZBAI has been awarded the “Golden Bauhinia Award”, the highest award in the financial and securities industry in Hong Kong, for “Top 10 Best Listed Companies”.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe Harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, “estimated,” “projected,” Words such as “expect”, “anticipate”, “predict”, “plan”, “intend”, “believe”, “seek”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “future”, “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the opposite of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance, conditions or results and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Company’s control and may cause actual results or achievements to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors include future financial and operating results, including revenues, income, expenses, cash balances and other financial items; Ability to manage growth and expansion; Current and future economic and political conditions; The ability to compete in industries with low barriers to entry; The ability to obtain additional financing to fund capital expenditure in the future. Ability to attract new customers and further enhance brand awareness; Ability to hire and retain qualified management and key staff; Trends and competition in the financial advisory services industry; Pandemic or epidemic disease; Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions you that actual results may differ materially from the expected results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements we make. You should not interpret forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Forward-looking statements represent only the beliefs and assumptions of our management as of the date such statements are made. The above forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release.

Contact Information
kenny@atifchina.com

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Channel Factory Selected As Google TV™ Masthead’s Sales Partner
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Channel Factory, the global brand suitability and contextual advertising platform, has partnered with Google TV to sell inventory of Google TV Masthead’s ad units on Google TV and Chromecast with Google TV devices in major and emerging markets. Google TV — built into smart TVs and streaming devices — brings together movies, shows, and more from across your apps and subscriptions and organizes them just for you.

With personalized recommendations from Google, users can discover new movies and shows based on what they’ve watched and what interests them. The Google TV Masthead is the first ad unit users see on the “For You” tab at the top of their Google TV home screen.

By partnering with Channel Factory, advertisers can leverage the Google TV Masthead to showcase their brands through a high-impact ad unit with strong visibility. Key highlights include:
- The Google TV Masthead offers a high-impact format that efficiently reaches millions of people in the living room.
- Drive brand awareness by securing ad space occupying the top and most visible position on the Google TV home screen.
- Bespoke packages to reach target audiences based on affinity, gender, age, and/or geo-targeting.
- Opportunities for brand integration on custom-designed seasonal content and 100% SOV of moment-specific content collections on Google TV, including curated carousels of top TV shows and movies to watch around those seasonal moments.
“The audience shift from linear TV to CTV has been massive, creating more demand for video discovery platforms like Google TV. By partnering with Google TV, we’re allowing our advertising partners to own the first impression on Google TV users,” said Jenny Chau, Chief Solutions Officer at Channel Factory. “Whether as a complement to existing ad strategies on YouTube or a new campaign, we can’t wait to see how brands take advantage of this wholly unique and immersive ad experience.”

By engaging with Channel Factory, leading global brands like Werner&Metz, De’Longhi, and more can ensure they are front and center during key seasonal moments, signature sporting events, cultural celebrations, and more, through high-impact CTV reach alongside relevant and engaging content.

Channel Factory’s partnership with YouTube extends far beyond the preferred access brands will now receive with the Google TV Masthead ad format. For over a decade, Channel Factory’s mission has been to help brands align their ads with brand-suitable videos on YouTube. In 2020, Channel Factory was selected to join the YouTube Measurement Program (YTMP), which offers advertisers trusted solutions for driving and measuring marketing performance on YouTube.

About Channel Factory
Channel Factory is a global technology and data platform that optimizes business performance and enhances brand reputation through ethical and effective contextual targeting. Utilizing proprietary AI and brand suitability technologies, Channel Factory ensures ads are placed on brand-safe, contextually relevant content across YouTube, CTV platforms, and social media, including Meta and TikTok. Through its conscious media planning, Channel Factory is committed to promoting sustainability, diversity, and positive content, helping brands achieve their goals while fostering a healthier digital ecosystem.

Channel Factory has a presence in 31 countries across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and ANZ, providing advertisers with IAB standard category lists and customized content options in 49+ languages. For more information about Channel Factory, please visit http://www.channelfactory.com

Google, YouTube and Google TV are trademarks of Google LLC.

Media Contact:
Andrew Krepow
andrew@broadsheetcomms.com

The MIL Network –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Cequence Security Triples ARR in MEA, Achieves Record Customer Wins & Strengthens Leadership Ahead of LEAP 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cequence Security, a pioneer in API security and bot management, today announced significant momentum in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, driven by rapid customer adoption, strategic partnerships and a strengthened leadership team. This expansion further solidifies Cequence’s position as the go-to API security and bot management provider in the region, addressing the growing demand for advanced threat protection and digital risk mitigation.

“APIs are the backbone of modern digital transformation, but they are also the most exploited attack surface,” said Ameya Talwalkar, CEO of Cequence Security. “We are not just expanding—we are transforming how businesses defend their digital assets. As the only solution that provides data sovereignty in the region, we empower enterprises with AI-driven security tailored to their unique regulatory and threat landscapes. By combining innovative threat intelligence with proactive defense, we enable organizations to anticipate and mitigate attacks before they impact operations.”

Cequence’s expansion in MEA has been marked by:
- New customer acquisitions across financial services, telecommunications, oil and gas, and technology, securing organizations such as:
  - A top Islamic bank in the UAE
  - One of the largest financial institutions in the Middle East and Africa
  - A major telecom provider in Turkey
  - A digital transformation leader in the energy sector
- A 193% increase in ARR in the MEA region year-over-year.
- A 68% increase in partner deal registrations, demonstrating strong market demand for Cequence’s Unified API Protection (UAP) platform.
- An 83% increase in reseller partnerships, spanning KSA, UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain and Egypt.
- The planned signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at LEAP 2025 with a strategic GTM partner, underscoring Cequence’s commitment to regional cybersecurity initiatives.
- Hiring for multiple positions across various departments in the region, reinforcing Cequence’s investment in local talent and its commitment to long-term growth in MEA.
Strategic Leadership Appointment
To drive Cequence’s expansion in MEA, the company has appointed Mohammad Ismail as its new Head of Go-to-Market (GTM) & Sales for EMEA, strategically based in Dubai to accelerate regional growth and customer success. With over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity and enterprise IT across the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, Ismail brings a proven track record of driving business growth and forging strategic alliances.

“My focus at Cequence is to strengthen our presence in the EMEA region by deepening relationships with customers and partners,” said Mohammad Ismail, Head of GTM & Sales for EMEA. “With the increasing adoption of the growing reliance on APIs to power digital services, organizations need robust API security and bot management solutions. I look forward to leveraging my experience to expand our footprint, provide strategic guidance, and help customers stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.”

Customer Success and Industry Validation
Cequence’s platform has helped organizations across MEA overcome critical API security and bot management challenges. Customers have leveraged Cequence to:
- Secure APIs during open banking transitions, ensuring compliance and real-time protection for sensitive financial data.
- Enhance API governance and security testing, integrating seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines to enforce OWASP Top 10 protections.
- Detect and stop sophisticated API attacks with AI-driven threat detection and real-time behavioral analysis, mitigating risks from shadow APIs and automated threats.
- Improve visibility and response times with comprehensive API activity monitoring, automated security enforcement, and automated enforcement with no human intervention.
- Meet stringent data sovereignty requirements, ensuring security policies remain within customer-controlled environments.
These capabilities combined with Cequence’s unified approach, continue to drive strong adoption among MEA enterprises seeking to protect their digital environments.

Investor Confidence and Market Leadership
Cequence’s expansion in MEA has garnered continued support from investors, including Prosperity7 Ventures and Sanabil Investments.

“The Middle East presents a unique and fast-growing opportunity for cybersecurity innovation, and Cequence is leading the charge with its best-in-class API security solutions,” said Abhishek Shukla, managing director and head of North America at Prosperity7 Ventures. “With an experienced leadership team, strong regional partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation, Cequence is well-positioned to drive continued success in the MEA market.”

Commitment to Innovation
As part of its ongoing commitment to innovation, Cequence has introduced new capabilities tailored to the MEA market, including:
- Expanded cloud and on-premises deployment options, ensuring compliance with regional data sovereignty requirements.
- Enhanced partner enablement programs, equipping resellers and service providers with advanced API security expertise.
“With API threats growing more sophisticated, we remain focused on delivering cutting-edge security solutions that empower organizations to stay ahead of attackers,” added Talwalkar. “Our investment in MEA reflects our dedication to supporting businesses with the tools they need to protect their digital assets and maintain trust with their customers.”

Meet Us at LEAP 2025
Cequence will be at Stand H1.D30 during LEAP 2025. Stop by to meet our team and learn more about how our industry-leading API security and bot management solutions can help protect your digital ecosystem.

Join Ameya Talwalkar, CEO of Cequence, as he discusses the evolving API security and bot management landscape. His session will cover emerging threats, regional trends and strategies for mitigating cyber risks.

When: 7:30 PM – 7:50 PM
Where: Stand H1.D30

About Cequence Security
Cequence is a pioneer in API security and bot management, protecting the applications and APIs that organizations depend on from attacks, business logic abuse, and fraud. Our unique Unified API Protection platform unites discovery, compliance, and protection capabilities, providing unmatched real-time security in the face of sophisticated threats. Demonstrating value in minutes rather than days or weeks, Cequence offers a flexible deployment model that requires no app instrumentation or modification. Cequence solutions scale to meet the needs of the largest and most demanding private and public sector organizations, protecting more than 8 billion daily API interactions and 3 billion user accounts. To learn more, visit www.cequence.ai.

Media Contact
Katrina Porter
press@cequence.ai

The MIL Network –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Orion180 FLEX Home Insurance Gives Texas Policyholders More Control Over Homeowners’ Coverage
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MELBOURNE, Fla., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orion180, a leading provider of innovative insurance solutions, today announced an industry first with the launch of its innovative FLEX Home Insurance product, which is now available in Texas. FLEX offers customers a fully customizable approach to homeowners’ insurance, empowering policyholders to tailor coverage to suit their unique needs and financial goals.

“We believe insurance should be adaptable to the lives of our customers—not the other way around,” said Ken Gregg, CEO of Orion180. “FLEX Home Insurance empowers homeowners with choice to design their policies around their individual preferences and priorities, offering unparalleled transparency, flexibility, and peace of mind. FLEX gives homeowners the ability to balance affordability and protection that our competition simply doesn’t deliver today.”

FLEX is a surplus lines product that introduces an innovative and flexible approach to insurance coverage. Homeowners begin with essential protections—such as fire and lightning coverage—and build out their policies to fit their needs and budget.

Highlights of FLEX Home Insurance include:
- Customizable Coverage Options: Policyholders can select perils based on their risk tolerance and needs, ensuring they can balance cost and risk for what matters most.
- Adjustable Deductibles and Copay Options: Homeowners can balance upfront costs and long-term savings by choosing deductible and copay levels that align with their financial comfort.
- Loyalty Rewards: Homeowners who experience no losses can earn deductible reductions, no-loss dividends, or even a full refund of their first-year premium after ten years of claim-free coverage.
- Rate Lock Features: A two-term price lock ensures premium stability, shielding policyholders from unexpected rate increases.
FLEX is designed to address the diverse needs of Texas homeowners, including those in high-risk areas prone to natural disasters like tornadoes and hailstorms.

Currently available through select insurance agents in Texas, FLEX Home Insurance will expand to Florida and other states in the spring of 2025, signaling Orion180’s commitment to delivering innovative, adaptable insurance solutions across the United States.

To learn more about Orion180 FLEX Home Insurance, visit https://orion180.com/flex/.

About Orion180
Orion180 is a customer-focused, technology-driven insurance brand that combines proprietary technology, real-time data, and straightforward underwriting practices to provide a seamless and premier insurance experience. Orion180 operates through Orion180 Insurance Co., a surplus lines insurance company serving Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Colorado (Flood only), Tennessee (Flood only), Illinois (Flood only) and Arizona, and Orion180 Select Insurance Co., an admitted insurance company offering coverage in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Ohio. With its proprietary MY180 platform and third-party integrations, Orion180 offers unmatched efficiency and innovation, fulfilling its vision of becoming the global leader in insurance solutions while maintaining its mission to deliver superior customer experiences and a comprehensive suite of products. Connect with Orion180 on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For more information, visit www.Orion180.com.

Media Contact
Ross Blume
Fusion Public Relations
orion180@fusionpr.com

The MIL Network –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s increase of the qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank A/S – Nykredit Realkredit A/S
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s increase of the qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank A/S.

4 February 2025

Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s increase of the qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank A/S.

In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order¹, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion.

On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order. The Offer Period ends on 19 February 2025 at 23:59 (CET).

Nykredit has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval in accordance with section 61 of the Danish Financial Business Act to increase Nykredit’s qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank up to 100 per cent of the share capital.

In addition to the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval, the Offer is subject to fulfilment of the conditions set out in section 6.6 of the Offer Document, including approval by the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority and achievement of the 67 per cent acceptance limit.

It is Nykredit’s view that the shareholders of Spar Nord Bank find the Offer attractive. At the time of this announcement, Nykredit holds 31.1 per cent of the shares in Spar Nord Bank, and Nykredit’s information about acceptances received so far indicates that the 67 per cent acceptance limit stated in the Offer has been reached.

Nykredit aims to delist Spar Nord Bank from Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S and to compulsorily acquire the remaining shares as soon as possible after completion of the Offer.

Nykredit expects the Offer to be completed during H1/2025.

The full terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer Document. The Offer Document is published in the Danish FSA’s OAM database: https://oam.finanstilsynet.dk/ and can also, with certain restrictions, be accessed at https://www.nykredit.com/en-gb/offer-spar-nord/ and https://www.sparnord.com/investor-relations/takeover-offer.

About Spar Nord Bank

Spar Nord Bank was founded in 1824 and is now a nationwide bank with 58 branches. Spar Nord Bank offers all types of financial services, consultancy and products, focusing its business on retail customers and primarily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the local areas in which the bank is represented. The bank is also focused on leasing operations and large corporate customers, which are both business areas handled by the head offices.

Spar Nord Bank has historically been rooted in northern Jutland and continues to be a market leader in this region. However, in the period from 2002 to 2024, Spar Nord Bank has established and acquired branches outside northern Jutland. Over the course of the years, the bank has adjusted its branch network in an ongoing process and now has a nationwide distribution network comprising 58 branches. These 58 branches are distributed on 32 banking areas, each of which is headed by a manager reporting directly to the bank’s executive board.

The Spar Nord Bank Group consists of two earnings entities: Spar Nord Bank’s branches and the Trading Division. As an entity, the Trading Division serves customers from Spar Nord Bank’s branches as well as large retail customers and institutional clients in the field of equities, bonds, fixed income and forex products, asset management and international transactions. Finally, under the concept Sparxpres, the bank offers consumer loans to personal customers through Sparxpres’ platform as well as debt consolidation loans and consumer financing via retail stores and gift voucher solutions via shopping centres and city associations.

About Nykredit

Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Denmark, company reg. (CVR) no. 12 71 92 80, having its registered office at Sundkrogsgade 25, 2150 Nordhavn, Denmark. Nykredit is a mortgage credit institution and, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary Totalkredit A/S, is a market leader of the Danish mortgage credit market with a market share of some 45.2 per cent. Nykredit offers mortgage financing for private individuals and businesses.

Nykredit is part of the Nykredit Group, which historically dates back to 1851. In addition to carrying on mortgage credit business, the Group carries on banking business through Nykredit Bank – including banking and wealth management operations – and has a total of around 4,000 employees in Denmark.

Nykredit is owned by an association of the Nykredit Group’s customers, Forenet Kredit. Forenet Kredit owns close to 80 per cent of Nykredit’s shares. Other major shareholders are five Danish pension funds: Akademikernes Pension AP Pension, PensionDanmark, PFA and PKA.

Nykredit is known for the advantages offered through the association. Forenet Kredit makes capital contributions to the Nykredit Group when times are good, and Nykredit has decided to pass these on to its customers.

Since, 2017, Forenet Kredit has paid over DKK 8 billion in capital contributions to the Nykredit Group, and in the period to 2027, Forenet Kredit has provided a further DKK 7 billion.

Questions and further information

Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

Nykredit Bank A/S

Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

Sundkrogsgade 25

2150 Nordhavn

Denmark

Telephone: +45 7010 9000

and

Carnegie Investment Bank

Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

Overgaden Neden Vandet 9B

1414 Copenhagen K

Denmark

E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/en-gb/offer-spar-nord/.

This announcement and the Offer Document are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

Restricted jurisdictions

The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank Shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this Offer Document or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the Laws of such jurisdiction, including securities Laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining this Offer Document, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer Document or to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this Offer Document outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable Law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.

1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

Attachment
- Section 61 announcement 04022025
The MIL Network –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: The Pula depreciated by 0.8 percent against the South African rand.

Source: Bank of Botswana

Over the twelve months period to January 2025, the nominal Pula exchange rate depreciated by 3.2 percent against the South African rand, while it appreciated by 0.1 percent against the IMF Special Drawing Rights (SDR). With respect to the SDR constituent currencies, the Pula appreciated by 2.8 percent against the Japanese yen, 2.3 percent against the euro and 0.2 percent against the British pound, while it depreciated by 1.8 percent against the US dollar and 0.2 percent against the Chinese renminbi.

The Pula depreciated by 0.8 percent against the South African rand, while it appreciated by 0.5 percent against the SDR over the one-month period to January 2025. It appreciated by 1.5 percent against the British pound, 0.6 percent against the euro, 0.5 percent against the US dollar and 0.2 percent against the Chinese renminbi, while it depreciated by 0.4 percent against the Japanese yen.

MIL OSI Economics –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: D. Boral Capital Announces Approval as a Nasdaq Member

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — D. Boral Capital, a premier Global Investment Bank focused on high-quality mid-market and growth issuers announces its approval as a Limited Underwriting Member of the Nasdaq Stock Market, one of the largest and most active securities exchanges in the world. As of February 3, 2025, D. Boral Capital was officially accepted, and this approval enables it to act as a principal lead underwriter under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5210(m).

D. Boral Capital’s membership in Nasdaq represents a significant milestone in the firm’s growth and evolution. As a lead underwriter for IPOs, this achievement enhances our ability to execute high-profile investment banking transactions and solidifies its position for continued growth and influence within the financial services sector.

David W. Boral, Founder & CEO, states: “D. Boral Capital’s joining Nasdaq marks a significant milestone for the firm, highlighting steadfast dedication to providing outstanding services to our clients. This achievement grants us access to a platform renowned for its innovation, efficiency, and global presence—principles that deliver unmatched insight and value to both our client issuers and investors.”

D. Boral Capital’s Nasdaq membership follows a period of significant growth, further reinforcing the firm’s dedication to ongoing innovation and excellence. D. Boral Capital looks forward to leveraging this membership to expand our capabilities and provide even greater value for our clients.

About D. Boral Capital
D. Boral Capital is a premier, relationship-driven global investment bank headquartered in New York. The firm is dedicated to delivering exceptional strategic advisory and tailored financial solutions to middle-market and emerging growth companies. With a proven track record, D. Boral Capital provides expert guidance to clients across diverse sectors worldwide, leveraging access to capital from key markets, including the United States, Asia, Europe, the UAE, and Latin America.

A recognized leader on Wall Street, D. Boral Capital has successfully aggregated over $23 billion in capital since its inception in 2020, executing approximately 300 transactions across a broad range of investment banking products.

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements.” These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the parties’ perspectives and expectations, are forward-looking statements. The words “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “intend,” and “plan” and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements.

Such forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and shareholders and other potential investors must recognize that actual results may differ materially from the expectations as a result of a variety of factors. Such forward-looking statements are based upon management’s current expectations and include known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are hard to predict or control, that may cause the actual results, performance, or plans to differ materially from any future results, performance or plans expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information provided herein represents the Company’s estimates as of the date of this press release, and subsequent events and developments may cause the Company’s estimates to change.

The Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking information in the future. Therefore, this forward-looking information should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s estimates of its future financial performance as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

A further list and description of risks and uncertainties can be found in the documents the Company has filed or furnished or may file or furnish with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate only to the date they were made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation.

Contact Us:
D. Boral Capital
590 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10022
Main Phone: +1 (212) 970-5150
www.dboralcapital.com
info@dboralcapital.com

The MIL Network –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PHILIPPINES – Bishops’ Letter for the Jubilee period: “There is hope for the nation”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

CC Adam Cohn

Manila (Agenzia Fides) – “Hope gives us courage and freedom,” says the Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, distributed and read in churches on February 2 at the conclusion of the Plenary Assembly of the Bishops. The letter, signed by the President of the Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Caloocan, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, focuses on the theme of hope, a virtue, and makes a reference to the most burning issues of the nation: from the demand for transparency and accountability – in view of the mid-term elections scheduled for May 2025 – to the desire to “become a more missionary and synodal Church”. The bishops declare that they are engaged in “communal discernment on the current realities affecting our nation”. The letter quotes the Letter to the Romans: “Hoping against all hope” (cf. Rom 4:18) and states that the Filipino people “struggle with hopelessness, striving to find hope amidst adversities”.”In the sphere of morality, we sense widespread confusion, indifference, apathy, and helplessness because of murderous attacks against life, particularly against innocent ones. The culture of impunity, self-entitlement, and loss of sense of sin are alarming,” it says. Added to this are the traumas “of disasters and tragedies due to climate emergencies”. In the area of economy, “the increase in poverty, manifested by the rise of unemployment and the price of commodities and services”, which widens the gap between rich and poor. In the political realm, “the misuse of public funds and resources”, “the culture of patronage and mendicancy are truly disturbing”, and also in the field of communications, “falsehood, misinformation, and disinformation are weaponized against the truth”.In the face of this reality, it is necessary “to pursue the path of personal, institutional, and ecclesial conversion in order to rediscover hope. This is the opportunity that the Jubilee Year provides us,” the pastoral letter says.Recalling that “hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts” (cf. Rom 5:5), the bishops proclaim that Christ is the Savior and that “God’s love penetrates our suffering, our misery and death, saves and transforms us.” “Love piercing through darkness reveals glimpses of hope” that can be seen “in principle-driven leaders who champion good governance.” “We see sparks of hope,” the bishops continue, “in the idealism of young people and responsible citizens who do not sell their idealism and patriotism,” and “in the spontaneous collaboration among NGOs, civic, and religious organizations” or “in ordinary laborers committed to sincere service even without recognition or reward.” They continued: “We see sparks of hope in those who stake their reputation, even lives, to fight corruption and pursue justice” and “in the Filipino spirit of resiliency, and in those who dedicate themselves to genuine service despite being overwhelmed by their own need.” “We, your spiritual leaders,” the bishops said, “share the pain brought about by these wounds of affliction. We, too, feel the deep disturbance and seeming paralysis that plague many who are dragged into the pit of hopelessness.” Therefore, “in this Jubilee Year of Hope, together we hold precious, the gift of hope sparked by the Holy Spirit. This hope is not simply optimism or a positive feeling. These are glimpses of the gift of hope that comes from the Holy Spirit urging us to act.” “Any action of hope is sourced from the Holy Spirit,” the Pastoral Letter says. “We therefore ask you, dear people, to allow the hope within you to be rekindled. May it become a flame of hope.” “Let the Holy Spirit renew the face of the earth and breathe transformation into the dark spaces and places of our lives and our nation,” the bishops say. “The grace of the Holy Spirit is a gentle breeze that spurs us to continue” and by promoting a “spiritual revolution of hope” and walking together “on a Pilgrimage of Hope towards the Father’s Kingdom.””There is hope! May Pag-Asa!”, the bishops write in the local language, Tagalog. They conclude with the advice of Saint Paul: “Let us not grow weary of doing good” (Galatians 6:9). (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 4/2/2024)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The admissions campaign for international applicants continues at HSE

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

The number of applications has almost doubled: to date, more than 2,600 applications have been submitted for undergraduate programs, and more than 2,400 for master’s programs. Such increased interest from foreign applicants in studying at the HSE confirms the status of HSE as one of the most sought-after Russian universities abroad.

Who most often chooses HSE

The leading countries in terms of the number of applications submitted for undergraduate programs are Pakistan, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Ghana and Moldova. The countries that most frequently apply for graduate programs are Ghana, India, Nigeria, Gambia, Pakistan, Ethiopia, China, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Cameroon.

“HSE University sees one of its tasks as the active promotion of Russian education in the international arena. And the growing interest among applicants from Asian and African countries, from the CIS countries only confirms HSE’s reputation as a leading research university with the competencies of the future not only in Russia but also abroad. Moreover, both in full-time and online forms,” noted Victoria Panova, Vice-Rector of HSE University. – After all, in a rather difficult time, HSE, along with 10 world universities, entered the number of leaders in distance education according to the rating of THE Online Learning Rankings 2024 magazine. A wide range of programs in the socio-economic and humanitarian areas, in the creative sphere, brilliant teachers from almost 50 countries of the world, a high level of support for international students and modern infrastructure of HSE – all this meets international standards, and the cost of education is often lower than in Western universities. Applicants and their parents evaluate the advantages and opportunities that HSE provides during and after their studies, and choose us.”

What opportunities does the university offer to international applicants?

One of the key advantages for international applicants to HSE remains the opportunity to choose the admission format. The university offers two options: a competition for budget (quota) places under the state scholarship of the Government of the Russian Federation, which covers up to 100% of the cost of education, and admission on a commercial basis.

Foreign applicants can receive a Russian Government scholarship (quota) based on the results of international Olympiads (applicants to a bachelor’s degree) and based on the results of selection events (minimum scores for Master’s degree And bachelor’s degree).

Additionally, applicants to undergraduate programs may re-credit results of international and national examinations, which makes the admission process even more flexible.

Preparing for Study: What to Do If You Don’t Know Russian

HSE offers to master the Russian language in The Center for the Preparation of Foreign Students, choosing to study for one year. Applicants to the bachelor’s degree program can take specialized entrance examinations and apply for a budget (quota) place with an additional year of preparation and Russian language training. A similar option is possible for future master’s degree students: upon successful completion of the portfolio competition, they can also receive a budget place with a year of training.

HSE – accessible, convenient, understandable

Website for international applicants has been translated into seven languages, including Chinese, Spanish, Arabic and Hindi, allowing candidates to easily find the information they need and navigate the admissions process. In addition, international applicants are contacted on social media and during webinars, answering the most pressing questions about education, visas, life in Russia and even whether there are places with halal food.

“We strive to attract only the best. We work with talented schoolchildren and applicants on an ongoing basis,” says Alexander Deyev, Director of Talent Abroad. “HSE ensures simplicity and accessibility of the entire process — from online application submission to the start of studies. We understand that entering a university, especially in a foreign country, is an important step that can be associated with many difficulties, especially for international students. Therefore, every year we do everything possible to make the application and document preparation process as clear as possible. Online consultations, personal support at all stages of admission, preparation for arrival in Russia — all this allows our applicants to feel confident and calm, to know that they will always be supported and helped to solve any problem that arises.”

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Lantronix to Debut New LM4 AI-Powered Out-of-Band Management Platform at Cisco Live
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity for IoT solutions enabling AI Edge intelligence, will debut its new LM4 AI-powered Out-of-Band Management (OOBM) platform at Stand A10 during Cisco Live, February 10–14, 2025, at Amsterdam RAI. Lantronix’s LM4 is the industry’s first console server specifically designed, sized and priced for Intermediate Distribution Frames (IDFs) and compact environments such as ATMs, kiosks, and network aggregation points. Engineered for healthcare, finance, utilities, telecommunications, government, retail and manufacturing, the LM4 delivers enterprise-grade automation, compliance and cybersecurity capabilities, leveraging technology proven in military and financial networks.

“We’re excited to introduce the LM4 Out-of-Band Management platform, which enables our customers to leverage rules-based AI for secure, reliable and automated network infrastructure recovery and mitigation,” said Mathi Gurusamy, chief strategy officer at Lantronix. “At Lantronix, we are committed to enabling network management automation with innovative solutions that enable our customers to be more efficient, secure and bottom-line focused.”

Serial console servers represented a $320 million worldwide market in 2024 and are growing at a steady 7 percent rate to a projected $391 million in 2026, according to the Dell’Oro Group.

Out-of-Band Management Everywhere

An advanced out-of-band management platform, the small yet powerful LM4 provides access, continuous monitoring and automated remediation of issues as well as control of network infrastructure devices. Operational whether the network is up or down, the expert system uses rules-based AI to recover and mitigate network infrastructure automatically, including reliable and secure access to remote gear during an outage. With up to four ports of serial console connections for directly managing gear plus support for up to 48 virtual ports, the LM4’s compact size and affordable price enables network managers to utilize out-of-band everywhere, including many locations previously considered too small and numerous for advanced out-of-band management.

Running the powerful LMOS software, the LM4 brings the power of NOC-based software to the network’s edge to create a separate management plane in the rack with network infrastructure. With continuous monitoring and automated runbook responses, the LM4 can detect and solve issues before traditional NOC-based tools even know there is an issue. LMOS features a granular authorization model that integrates with existing access controls as well as automated change management functions, including the ability to store multiple config and OS files with local backups to enable automated rollback of failed config changes.

Standardize on Lantronix LM-Series Solutions for Enterprise-Grade OOB Management

The LM4 runs the same LMOS software as the LM83X and LM80 console servers, expanding the LM-Series console access options anywhere from 2–104 ports. The LM-Series is centrally managed by the Lantronix Control Center, which is available to run on-premises as a VM or hosted in the cloud. Lantronix’s LM-Series products allow customers to standardize their out-of-band management and deploy enterprise-grade functionality and AI-driven automation at all points in the network. The result is a more resilient network that’s easier to manage with fewer issues, reduced support truck rolls and stronger security and compliance.

Lantronix is the go-to source for innovative out-of-band solutions, providing a suite of reliable, secure and easy-to-deploy platforms, all supported by its exceptional service team.

Also being shown at Cisco Live are:

Out-of-Band Management Solutions
- LM83X, delivering AI-driven out-of-band management of 8–104 devices over serial console connections in a scalable and robust console server with dual power inputs.
- LM80, providing a fixed 8-port serial AI-driven out-of-band management solution that can automate a majority of routine IT maintenance and recovery tasks quickly and error-free.
- Lantronix Control Center, a single pane of glass for managing all LM-series devices for secure remote access as well as for automating management of each of the connected network infrastructure devices. It is a single source for Authorization-Authentication-Accounting (AAA) controls, creating monitoring and action rules without scripting, centrally archiving both monitored device operating system and configuration files and compliance reporting.
Reliable Gateways and Console Servers With Trusted Performance
- EMG 8500, Lantronix’s Edge Management Gateway that provides secure remote access for branch offices, remote locations, retail stores or anywhere an offsite network device gateway is needed and where space is limited.
- SLC 8000: Advanced Console Manager, providing secure access to IT equipment with 8–48 ports of RS-232 and USB console connections.
- G520 Series, Lantronix’s next-generation IoT cellular LTE CAT 4G and 5G gateway designed for industrial applications, including pre-enabled Percepxion™ Edge Solution Platform to increase operational efficiency and prevent cyber-attacks.
- X300 Series, a Cellular Compact IoT Gateway Solution that includes Lantronix’s IoT gateway hardware and centralized device management, cellular data, enhanced security and expert technical support in an all-in-one package.
Expert Technical Support
- LEVEL Technical Services, providing dedicated technical support experts to assist with implementing out-of-band deployments and limited lifetime equipment warranties.
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 leadership. 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 of 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

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bce840fa-a24a-413e-96ca-23443e7d1d6b

The MIL Network –
February 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 1 more detainee returns to HK

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Security Bureau today said that a Hong Kong resident who was recently rescued after being detained in Myanmar where she was forced to work illegally, has departed Thailand for Hong Kong this afternoon with the bureau’s dedicated task force.

The task force met the Hong Kong resident concerned in Bangkok this morning, following the confirmation of her rescue in Myanmar and safe arrival in Thailand, and was delighted to find that she was in good mental and physical condition.

She expressed gratitude for the task force’s active co-ordination and liaison with relevant units of the Thai authorities as well as for the assistance of different parties that enabled her to return home to reunite with her family as soon as possible.

The bureau thanked the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; the Chinese Embassy in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar; the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand; the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai; the Consulate-General of Myanmar in Hong Kong; the Royal Thai Consulate-General, Hong Kong; and the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Bangkok.

The task force is actively following up on the remaining nine requests for assistance involving Hong Kong residents who have yet to return.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 5, 2025

Category: Asia

What is “buff” and how does it work?

A symbiotic relationship

Graffiti removal as aesthetic practice

Beyond visual order mandates

Global aid sector in disarray

Food and memory

Adapting for dementia care

Culturally tailored dementia care

Notes to editors

Share this page

Updates to this page

Who most often chooses HSE

What opportunities does the university offer to international applicants?

Preparing for Study: What to Do If You Don’t Know Russian

HSE – accessible, convenient, understandable

Notes to editors   