Category: Australia

  • MIL-OSI: Fluent, Inc. Expands Board of Advisors, Tapping Industry Experts for Commerce Media Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fluent, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLNT), a leading provider of commerce media solutions, today announced the expansion of its advisory leadership with the introduction of its inaugural Board of Advisors. This strategic initiative brings together industry leaders with deep expertise across ecommerce, digital marketing, and consumer technology to accelerate the expansion of its Commerce Media Solutions and guide continued growth and product innovation.

    The Board will partner with Fluent’s executive team to inform strategic decision-making, enhance brand and advertiser partnerships, guide the product roadmap, and identify new revenue opportunities within the evolving commerce media landscape.

    An Elite Group of Industry Trailblazers

    Fluent’s Board of Advisors features a roster of distinguished industry veterans who have a proven track record in scaling high-growth businesses, pioneering digital transformation, and building world-class consumer experiences.

    Drew Cashmore

    Drew Cashmore is a commerce executive with a deep background in building and scaling intrapreneurial ventures within major global retailers. As a former executive and original architect of Walmart Connect in the U.S. and Canada, Drew played an integral role in scaling the business beyond $2 billion, spearheading initiatives such as branding and in-store advertising strategies. He has also served as CMO of the SoftBank-backed Live Shopping platform, Firework, and is currently the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Adaptive Retail Group, a new retail innovation platform. Beyond his professional achievements, Drew is also a startup advisor, angel investor, public speaker, and thought leader in retail innovation.

    Charlie Cole

    Charlie Cole is a seasoned executive with deep expertise in digital transformation and ecommerce across entrepreneurial, enterprise, and corporate landscapes. A two-time turnaround CEO, he spearheaded digital evolution at Tribute Technology and FTD, modernizing technological infrastructure with a consumer-first approach. Previously, he was the first Global Chief eCommerce Officer for Samsonite while also serving as Chief Digital Officer for Tumi, driving digital strategy for both brands. His leadership spans retail, CPG, and technology, with key roles at Reckitt Benckiser (Schiff Nutrition) and Lucky Brand Jeans. Now, as President of XGEN, he brings generative AI solutions to ecommerce brands.

    Shawna Hausman

    Shawna Hausman is an ecommerce and digital marketing executive with expertise in driving growth for companies at key inflection points, from turnaround and launch to post-acquisition. As Principal of her own consulting practice, she advises high-growth brands like Alloy Health, Womaness, and WorkMoney on ecommerce, CRM, loyalty, and digital marketing strategies. Previously, as CMO at FSA Store, Shawna led a 300% increase in topline revenue, contributing to the company’s acquisition by H.I.G. Capital in 2024. Shawna has held leadership roles at top brands including Victoria’s Secret, Esprit, West Elm, Mission Athletecare, and American Eagle. She also serves on the Board of Advisors for CommerceNext, a community for ecommerce and marketing executives.

    Jennifer Olsen

    Jenny Olsen is a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving growth and transformation at public and venture-backed companies. As Chief Marketing Officer of Caleres (NYSE: CAL), Jenny led a reimagination of the company’s marketing function and technologies that increased customer loyalty and revenue across the $3B portfolio of global footwear brands. During her tenure on the leadership team, the company’s market cap increased by 40%. As CMO of UNTUCKit, Jenny transformed the marketing team and brand presentation, helping ignite a 100% increase in revenue. Jenny has held marketing leadership roles at Crate & Barrel, Yahoo!, and Gap Inc., and currently serves on the boards of Vessi (100% waterproof sneakers) and Fair Harbor (sustainable swimwear and apparel).

    Brian Wong

    Brian Wong is the Founding Partner at Ascii Ventures, where he invests in early-stage companies across fintech, Web3, SaaS, ecommerce, and martech. He previously co-founded Kiip, a mobile rewards platform credited with creating “moments marketing” — a breakthrough approach to consumer engagement based on real-time mobile behavior. Kiip raised over $40 million from top-tier investors and partnered with global brands including Amazon, Target, and McDonald’s before its acquisition in 2020. Named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30” and AdAge’s “Creativity Top 50,” Brian is also the author of The Cheat Code, a bestselling guide to creative and entrepreneurial shortcuts published in multiple languages and featured in Forbes, CNBC, and The Telegraph.

    Strategic Counsel for a New Era of Commerce Media

    “We’re honored to bring together such a dynamic and accomplished group for our Board of Advisors,” said Jessica Batty, SVP of Marketing at Fluent. “Their deep expertise in retail, ecommerce, and digital transformation will be instrumental as we continue to expand our market presence and deliver leading-edge commerce media solutions for partners and advertisers.”

    The formation of the Board of Advisors builds on Fluent’s strong momentum in commerce media, following triple-digit year-over-year revenue growth in its unaudited Q4 results. By bringing together top industry talent, Fluent reaffirms its commitment to innovation, strategic leadership, and delivering scalable solutions that empower brands to maximize revenue opportunities and create more meaningful consumer experiences.

    For more information about Fluent and its Board of Advisors, visit www.fluentco.com.

    About Fluent, Inc.

    Fluent, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLNT) is a commerce media solutions provider connecting top-tier brands with highly engaged consumers. Leveraging exclusive ad inventory, robust first-party data, and proprietary machine learning, Fluent unlocks additional revenue streams for partners and empowers advertisers to acquire their most valuable customers at scale. Founded in 2010, Fluent uses its deep expertise in performance marketing to drive monetization and increase engagement at key touchpoints across the customer journey. For more insights visit https://www.fluentco.com/.

    Contact Information

    Investor Relations
    Fluent, Inc.
    InvestorRelations@fluentco.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Spirit Blockchain Capital to Present at the Blockchain and Digital Assets Virtual Investor Conference June 5th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Spirit Blockchain Capital (EXCHANGE: CSE: SPIR / OTC: SBLCF), based in Vancouver, British Columbia focused on delivering diversified blockchain and digital asset exposure while advancing a proprietary, market-leading tokenization platform, today announced that Lewis Bateman, CEO, will present live at the Blockchain and Digital Assets Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on June 5th, 2025.

    DATE: June 5th
    TIME: REGISTER HERE
    LINK: 12:30 PM ET
    Available for 1×1 meetings: June 5th, 6th, 9th and 10th (subject to availability)

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Recent Company Highlights

    Upgraded to OTCQB Venture Market
    In April 2025, Spirit Blockchain Capital successfully upgraded to the OTCQB Venture Market, enhancing visibility and accessibility for U.S. investors. The move is expected to improve liquidity and broaden the company’s shareholder base.

    Launch of Innovative Crypto ETPs on European Exchanges
    In March 2025, the company launched a series of cryptocurrency Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Deutsche Börse, advancing its footprint in regulated digital asset investing across Europe.

    About Spirit Blockchain Capital

    Spirit Blockchain Capital is a leading investment company at the forefront of the blockchain industry. Through our operational business line and asset management business, we provide investors with a range of opportunities for capital appreciation. With a strong focus on innovation, strategic investments, and operational excellence, Spirit Blockchain is poised to unlock the potential of the digital economy.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:
    Spirit Blockchain Capital
    Lewis Bateman
    Chief Executive Officer
    info@spiritblockchain.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Monarch Private Capital Welcomes Michael Powley to Lead Data Innovation Across the Firm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monarch Private Capital (Monarch), a nationally recognized impact investment firm that develops, finances, and manages a diversified portfolio of projects generating both federal and state tax credits, is pleased to announce that Michael Powley has joined the firm as Manager, Technology Innovation. In this newly created role, Powley will lead Monarch’s ongoing data transformation initiatives, driving the integration of cutting-edge technology solutions to optimize portfolio management, streamline business processes, and support strategic decision-making across the firm.

    Powley’s efforts will be central to advancing Monarch’s vision for a fully integrated, data-driven organization. While anchored in the Asset Management group, his work will extend firm-wide, designing and implementing systems that enhance visibility, reduce redundancy, and enable real-time insights across the investment lifecycle.

    “Monarch’s data analytics inform our decisions from the underwriting process all the way through project exit. Michael’s addition to Monarch demonstrates our commitment to integrating the best technology solutions available to leverage our data, eliminate latency, and drive value,” said Emily DiCenso, Managing Director of Asset Management at Monarch Private Capital. “His expertise will ensure we continue to differentiate ourselves in the industry with best-in-class policies and procedures that safeguard our investments and, in turn, our investors’ returns.”

    Michael Powley brings over a decade of experience in data governance, business intelligence, and process automation. Prior to joining Monarch, Powley spent seven years at Midwest Housing Equity Group (MHEG), where he developed automation frameworks, predictive analytics models, and AI-driven solutions for asset management and underwriting. He also held a pivotal role at Lowe’s, where he helped develop state-of-the-art selling and fulfillment platforms, revolutionizing inventory management and operational efficiency.

    At Monarch, Powley will continue his focus on building durable, intelligent systems that support the firm’s investment activities in affordable housing, renewable energy, and historic rehabilitation. His efforts will elevate Monarch’s ability to scale responsibly and remain at the forefront of industry innovation.

    “Monarch’s commitment to leveraging industry-leading technology that bridges the gaps between data, people, and decisions is what drew me to the firm,” said Powley. “I’m excited to help grow how Monarch uses analytics, automation, and AI to give our teams better tools to make our work easier, decisions clearer, and our impact even stronger.”

    Outside of work, Powley enjoys life in Omaha, Nebraska, with his wife and three kids. He stays actively involved in the community, collaborating with local non-profits to solve challenges and build practical, tech-driven solutions that support their missions.

    For more information about Monarch Private Capital, visit www.monarchprivate.com.

    About Monarch Private Capital

    Monarch Private Capital manages impact investment funds that positively impact communities by creating clean power, jobs, and homes. The funds provide predictable returns through the generation of federal and state tax credits. The Company offers innovative tax credit equity investments for affordable housing, historic rehabilitations, renewable energy, film, and other qualified projects. Monarch Private Capital has long-term relationships with institutional and individual investors, developers, and lenders participating in these federal and state programs. Headquartered in Atlanta, Monarch has offices and professionals located throughout the United States.

    CONTACT
    Jane Rafeedie
    Monarch Private Capital 
    Jrafeedie@monarchprivate.com 
    470-283-8431

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/35fdda09-b1a3-4a1e-a21a-6fac74238697

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Trump, tariffs and the Middle East are looming challenges for Albanese

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Australia these days receives invitations to big-league international conferences. And so Anthony Albanese will be off soon to the G7 meeting in Alberta, Canada, on June 15-17.

    For the prime minister, what’s most important about this trip is not so much the conference itself, but his expected first meeting with US President Donald Trump, either on the sidelines of the G7 or in a visit to Washington while he’s in North America.

    Nothing is locked in. But it’s impossible to think such a meeting won’t take place. The Australian PM certainly needs to have his first face-to-face talks with the US president sooner rather than later.

    During the election, there was much argument over whether Albanese or Peter Dutton would be better at dealing with the difficult and unpredictable Trump, in particular, in trying to extract some concessions on his tariffs

    Australia has been hit by Trump’s 25% tariff on aluminium and steel, as well as by his general 10% tariff.

    The Trump tariff regime has been a chaotic story of decisions, pauses and changes of mind. In the latest drama, the United States Court of International Trade on Wednesday blocked Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs (as far as Australia goes, this relates to the 10% general tariff but not that on aluminium and steel). The court found the president had exceeded his powers. The administration immediately appealed the decision.

    We can’t know how this imbroglio will play out. But assuming Australia will still be confronting some tariffs, Albanese’s pitch for special treatment will be made around what we can do for the Americans with our large deposits of critical minerals and rare earths. These are vital for the production of a huge range of items, including for defence purposes.

    Australia’s ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, speaking at a conference in Detroit this week, pointed out that the two countries already had a draft accord on these minerals.

    “What we need to work out […] is how do we collaborate both on the mining, the extraction, the transportation and the processing and the stockpiling to make our economies resilient, including what you’ll need for future battery manufacture,” Rudd said.

    When Albanese does get together with Trump, he will have the advantage of meeting him as the big winner of the recent election. Trump said of him post-election, “He’s been very, very nice to me, very respectful to me”.

    But that’s no iron-clad guarantee of success. With the US president, there are always multiple “known unknowns”.

    For Albanese, success on the tariff front would be important, but not, of course, as important politically as it would have been pre-election.

    A range of other issues will also be on the agenda when the two meet: including progress on AUKUS.

    The president would no doubt be pleased the government is in the process of booting the Chinese lessee out of the Port of Darwin (with American investment firm Cerberus expressing an interest in taking over, although the government’s preference is for the port to be in Australian hands).

    Trump might not think, however, that the government’s commitment to defence spending, due to reach 2.3% of gross domestic product by 2033-34, is enough. The Americans would prefer a level of 3% of GDP.

    No doubt the Middle East would also be canvassed in such talks. While Middle East policy is not a frontline issue in the Australian-American relationship, the Albanese government struggles at home to strike the right stance.

    Since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, Australia has seen a deterioration in local social cohesion. Antisemitism spiked to a degree not anticipated; pro-Palestinian demonstrations became a regular and controversial feature. The government found itself under political fire from the Jewish community and pro-Palestinian critics alike.

    With the Israeli government disregarding international criticism, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza growing more dire, Albanese this week toughened his rhetoric.

    On Monday he said: “It is outrageous that there be a blockade of food and supplies to people who are in need in Gaza. We have made that very clear by signing up to international statements”. He described Israel’s actions as “completely unacceptable”.

    Within Labor, the pressure to go further has been mounting. It is on two fronts. Some want sanctions against Israel (beyond the existing sanctions in relation to settlers on the West Bank). There is also the issue of whether Australia should recognise a Palestinian state ahead of a two-state solution.

    Ed Husic, a Muslim, was relatively outspoken even while he was in cabinet. Since being dumped from the ministry, he is much freer to put forth his view.

    This week, he was calling for imposing sanctions if other nations were to do so. “I think we should be actively considering […] drawing up a list of targeted sanctions where we can join with others”.

    Significantly, former Labor Foreign Minister Gareth Evans was another advocate, saying sanctions “would send a powerful message”.




    Read more:
    Gareth Evans: the case for recognising Palestine


    But when the question of sanctions was put to Albanese, he was dismissive, raising the issue of substantive outcomes.

    At the Labor party’s grassroots level, there is strong pressure for a more pro-Palestinian approach.

    It is not unreasonable to think that would strike a sympathetic chord with both Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong, but they are very cognisant of the politics – both international and local.

    Wong a year ago raised the possibility of recognising Palestine statehood as a step along a peace process, ahead of a two-state solution.

    Australia’s ambassador to the United Nations, James Larson, last week delivered an Australian statement to a preparatory meeting for a June conference in New York on “the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-state solution”.

    Echoing Wong’s earlier position, he said: “A two-state solution – a Palestinian state alongside the state of Israel – is the only hope of breaking the endless cycle of violence, and the only hope of a just and enduring peace, for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”

    “Like other partners, Australia no longer sees recognition of a Palestinian state as only occurring at the end of negotiations, but rather as a way of building momentum towards a two-state solution.”

    Evans, in an article for Pearls and Irritations this week, says the “strongest and most constructive contribution” Australia could make on the issue would be to announce at the conference “that we are immediately recognising Palestinian statehood: not just as the final outcome of a political settlement but as a way of kickstarting it”.

    The government is tight-lipped about what stand it will take for the June 17-20 conference, saying it doesn’t have details yet and is unable to say who will attend for Australia. It says it is not being framed as a conference where countries are expected to make pledges.

    Nevertheless, many within Labor will be watching closely whether the coming weeks will see any change in Australia’s Middle East policy. But that, in turn, would depend on whether others make any moves, because Australia wants to have company from like-minded countries.

    Michelle Grattan 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. Grattan on Friday: Trump, tariffs and the Middle East are looming challenges for Albanese – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-trump-tariffs-and-the-middle-east-are-looming-challenges-for-albanese-257333

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI: Zeo Energy Corp. to Acquire Heliogen, Inc., Expected to Create a Clean Energy Platform for Residential, Commercial, and Utility Markets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Acquisition Seeks to Combine Zeo’s Solar Energy Platform with Heliogen’s Advanced Clean Storage Solutions

    Transaction Represents Culmination of Heliogen’s Comprehensive Strategic Alternatives Review Process

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. and PASADENA, Calif., May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zeo Energy Corp. (Nasdaq: ZEO) (“Zeo Energy,” or “Zeo”), a leading Florida-based provider of residential solar and energy efficiency solutions, and Heliogen, Inc. (OTCQX: HLGN) (“Heliogen”), a provider of on-demand clean energy technology solutions, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger and reorganization (the “Merger Agreement”) pursuant to which Zeo will acquire all of Heliogen’s outstanding equity securities in an all-stock transaction. The transaction is currently expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

    Following the closing of the transaction, Zeo plans to leverage Heliogen’s solutions, brand, intellectual property, capital, and technical talent to establish a division focused on long-duration energy generation and storage for commercial and industrial-scale facilities, including artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing data centers. The transaction is expected to create a robust clean energy platform spanning residential, commercial, and utility-scale markets, supported by internal financing capabilities and domain expertise.

    Management Commentary

    “Heliogen brings a set of practical solutions to customers, particularly data centers, looking for longer duration energy storage with substantially lower costs than alternatives on the market,” said Tim Bridgewater, CEO of Zeo Energy. “Through this acquisition, we believe that Zeo will be able to accelerate our vision of serving energy consumers across the spectrum – from residential rooftops to larger-scale industrial solar and storage applications to build an energy platform at scale.”

    “We believe this combination offers a compelling opportunity for Heliogen stockholders through the opportunity to participate in the substantial growth potential of the combined company,” added Christiana Obiaya, CEO of Heliogen. “We believe that Zeo’s proven track record and network of customers can enhance the value creation opportunities for Heliogen’s solutions and technical capabilities, while enhancing liquidity for stockholders. We’re proud to be joining forces to scale practical, dispatchable clean energy solutions. This transaction is the result of the Heliogen Board’s comprehensive review of strategic alternatives. Our Board is unanimous in its belief that this transaction is the optimal path forward and in the best interest of our stockholders.”

    Strategic Rationale

    • Expanded Market Reach: The transaction unites Zeo’s existing residential solar and storage footprint with Heliogen’s long-duration energy storage expertise. Heliogen’s commercial and utility-scale thermal storage solutions address mission-critical power quality and energy capacity issues faced by AI and cloud computing data centers, while concurrently aiding grid stability.
    • Operational Synergies: The transaction is expected to streamline costs and reduce corporate overhead, while retaining core technical and commercial talent.
    • Strengthened Balance Sheet: At close, Zeo anticipates benefiting from Heliogen’s incremental liquidity, supporting investments for future growth in the solar and energy storage space.
    • Enhanced Financing Capabilities: Zeo’s affiliated financing arm, which has provided over $44 million in clean energy tax equity financing to date, has the ability to be used for future Heliogen utility-scale and long-duration energy storage projects.
    • Accelerated Growth Opportunities: The transaction seeks to position Zeo to capitalize on increasing demand for resilient, cost-effective, low-carbon energy infrastructure, supported by favorable long-term tailwinds and potential tax equity investments.

    Transaction Details and Closing Timeline

    Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, upon the closing of the transaction, Heliogen’s securityholders will receive shares of Zeo’s Class A common stock valued at approximately $10 million in the aggregate, based on a Zeo Class A common stock price of $1.5859 per share, and subject to an adjustment mechanism based on Heliogen’s net cash at the closing.

    The proposed transaction has been unanimously approved by the Board of Directors of both companies and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval by Heliogen’s stockholders, as well as Heliogen having a specified minimum amount of net cash at the closing. Certain Heliogen stockholders holding approximately 23% of Heliogen’s outstanding shares of common stock have entered into voting agreements, pursuant to which they have agreed, among other things, to vote all of such shares in favor of the proposed transaction. The proposed transaction will not require the approval of Zeo’s stockholders under Nasdaq rules.

    Advisors

    Piper Sandler & Co. is acting as financial advisor and Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP is acting as legal counsel to Zeo.

    Pickering Energy Partners is acting as financial advisor and Cooley LLP is acting as legal counsel to Heliogen.

    About Zeo Energy Corp.

    Zeo Energy Corp. is a Florida-based regional provider of residential solar, distributed energy, and energy efficiency solutions. Zeo Energy focuses on high-growth markets with limited competitive saturation. With its differentiated sales approach and vertically integrated offerings, Zeo serves customers who desire to reduce high energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future. For more information on Zeo Energy Corp., please visit www.zeoenergy.com.

    About Heliogen, Inc.

    Heliogen (OTCQX: HLGN) is a renewable energy technology company that provides solutions for delivering cost-effective, low-carbon energy production around the clock. By combining commercially proven solar technologies with thermal systems expertise, Heliogen supports customers in achieving a practical transition to cleaner energy. For more information about Heliogen, please visit www.heliogen.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act“), and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are based on beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to Zeo and/or Heliogen. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, such as statements regarding the structure, timing, and completion of the proposed transaction between Zeo and Heliogen and the vision, goals, and trajectory of Zeo following the proposed transaction. The words “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will,” and similar references to future periods may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this press release, and current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks, and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Zeo’s or Heliogen’s views as of any subsequent date, and neither Zeo nor Heliogen undertakes any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, Zeo’s Heliogen’s actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: the occurrence of any event, change, or other circumstances that could give rise to the right of one or both of Zeo or Heliogen to terminate the Merger Agreement; the possibility that the proposed transaction does not close when expected or at all because the conditions to closing are not satisfied on a timely basis or at all, including the failure to timely obtain stockholder approval for the proposed transaction from Heliogen’s stockholders, if at all; the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction are not realized when expected or at all; the possibility that the vision, goals, and trajectory of Zeo following the proposed transaction are not timely achieved or realized, if at all; the possibility that the integration of the two companies may be more difficult, time-consuming, or costly than expected; the possibility that the proposed transaction may be more expensive or take longer to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Zeo, Heliogen or others related to the proposed transaction; Zeo’s or Heliogen’s success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, its officers, key employees, or directors; Zeo’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock and warrants on Nasdaq; limited liquidity and trading of Zeo’s or Heliogen’s securities; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; the possibility that Zeo or Heliogen may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; operational risk; litigation and regulatory enforcement risks, including the diversion of management time and attention and the additional costs and demands on Zeo’s or Heliogen’s resources; and other risks and uncertainties, including those included under the heading “Risk Factors” in Zeo’s and Heliogen’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K filed with the SEC for the year ended December 31, 2024 and in subsequent periodic reports and other filings with the SEC. In light of the significant uncertainties in these forward-looking statements, you should not regard these statements as a representation or warranty by Zeo or Heliogen, or their respective directors, officers or employees or any other person that Zeo or Heliogen will achieve their objectives and plans in any specified time frame, or at all.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the proposed transaction, Zeo and Heliogen intend to file relevant materials with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”), which will include a proxy statement of Heliogen that will also constitute a prospectus of Zeo with respect to the shares of class A common stock of Zeo to be issued in the proposed transaction (the “proxy statement/prospectus”). After the Registration Statement has been declared effective by the SEC, a definitive proxy statement/prospectus will be mailed to stockholders of Heliogen. This press release is not a substitute for any registration statement or proxy statement/prospectus, or other documents Zeo and/or Heliogen may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed acquisition. BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISION, STOCKHOLDERS AND INVESTORS OF HELIOGEN AND ZEO ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE AND ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED BY HELIOGEN AND/OR ZEO WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION OR INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE THEREIN BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES TO THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. The Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by Zeo and Heliogen with the SEC, when filed, will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In addition, investors and shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC by Heliogen online at investors.heliogen.com, and will be able to obtain free copies of the Registration Statement, proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC by Zeo online at investors.zeoenergy.com.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    This press release is not a solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction. However, under SEC rules, Heliogen, Zeo and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and other members of their management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the interests of Heliogen’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Heliogen’s stock is set forth in Heliogen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on March 27, 2025 (the “2024 Heliogen 10-K”). Information regarding the interests of Zeo’s directors and executive officers is set forth in Zeo’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, which was filed with the SEC on May 28, 2025 (the “2024 Zeo 10-K”). To the extent that either Zeo’s or Heliogen’s directors and executive officers and their respective affiliates have acquired or disposed of security holdings since the “as of” date indicated in the 2024 Zeo 10-K or 2024 Heliogen 10-K, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 or amendments to beneficial ownership reports on Schedule 13D filed with the SEC.

    Additional information regarding the identity of potential participants, and their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be included in the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed acquisition when it is filed with the SEC. These documents (when available) may be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, from Heliogen’s website at https://investors.heliogen.com/ and from Zeo’s website at https://investors.zeoenergy.com/.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release is for informational purposes only and is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities or the solicitation of any proxy, vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act, or in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    Zeo Energy Corp. Contacts

    For Investors:
    Tom Colton and Greg Bradbury
    Gateway Group
    ZEO@gateway-grp.com

    For Media:
    Zach Kadletz
    Gateway Group
    ZEO@gateway-grp.com

    Heliogen Contacts

    Investors Contact:
    Phelps Morris
    Chief Financial Officer
    Phelps.Morris@heliogen.com

    Heliogen Media Contact:
    Cory Ziskind
    ICR, Inc.
    HeliogenPR@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues emergency proclamations for Trinity and San Joaquin counties to support recovery

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 28, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an emergency proclamation for Trinity County to assist in recovery from the December 2024 winter storms that caused significant damage to the local area. 

    The emergency proclamation authorizes the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to provide assistance to Trinity County under the California Disaster Assistance Act, among other provisions.

    Governor Newsom additionally issued an emergency proclamation for San Joaquin County to assist in recovery from the October 2024 Victoria Island Levee failure. 

    The emergency proclamation authorizes the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to provide assistance to San Joaquin under the California Disaster Assistance Act, among other provisions.

    The text of today’s emergency proclamations for Trinity and San Joaquin counties can be found here and here, respectively.

    Recent news

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, University of South Australia

    A United States court has blocked the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs that US President Donald Trump imposed on imported goods from around 90 nations. This puts implementation of Trump’s current trade policy in disarray.

    The Court of International Trade ruled the emergency authority Trump used to impose the tariffs could not override the role of Congress, which has the right to regulate commerce with other countries.

    Tariffs imposed via other legislative processes – such as those dealing with cars, steel and aluminium – continue to stand. But the broad-based “reciprocal” tariffs will need to be removed within ten days of the court’s ruling. Trump administration officials have already filed plans to appeal.

    The ruling calls into question trade negotiations underway with more than 18 different nations, which are trying to lower these tariffs. Do these countries continue to negotiate or do they wait for the judicial process to play out?

    The Trump administration still has other mechanisms through which it can impose tariffs, but these have limits on the amount that can be imposed, or entail processes which can take months or years. This undermines Trump’s preferred method of negotiation: throwing out large threats and backing down once a concession is reached.

    Emergency powers were a step too far

    The lawsuits were filed by US importers of foreign products and some US states, challenging Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977.

    The lawsuits argued the national emergencies cited in imposing the tariffs – the trade deficit and the fentanyl crisis – were not an emergency and not directly addressed by the tariff remedy. The court agreed, and said by imposing tariffs Trump had overstepped his authority.

    The ruling said the executive orders used were “declared to be invalid as contrary to law”.

    The act states the president is entitled to take economic action in the face of “an unusual and extraordinary threat”. It’s mainly been used to impose sanctions on terrorist groups or freeze assets from Russia. There’s nothing in the act that refers to tariffs.

    The decision means all the reciprocal tariffs – including the 10% tariffs on most countries, the 50% tariffs Trump was talking about putting on the EU, and some of the Chinese tariffs – are ruled by the court to be illegal. They must be removed within 10 days.

    The ruling was based on two separate lawsuits. One was brought by a group of small businesses that argued tariffs materially hurt their business. The other was brought by 12 individual states, arguing the tariffs would materially impact their ability to provide public goods.

    Some industry tariffs will remain in place

    The ruling does not apply to tariffs applied under Section 201, known as safeguard tariffs. They are intended to protect industries from imports allegedly being sold in the US market at unfair prices or through unfair means. Tariffs on solar panels and washing machines were brought under this regulation.

    Also excluded are Section 232 tariffs, which are applied for national security reasons. Those are the steel and aluminium tariffs, the automobile and auto parts tariffs. Trump has declared all those as national security issues, so those tariffs will remain.

    Most of the tariffs against China are also excluded under Section 301. Those are put in place for unfair trade practices, such as intellectual property theft or forced technology transfer. They are meant to pressure countries to change their policies.

    Other trade investigations are still underway

    In addition, there are current investigations related to copper and the pharmaceuticals sector, which will continue. These investigations are part of a more traditional trade process and may lead to future tariffs, including on Australia.

    The Trump administration is still weighing possible sector-specific tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
    Planar/Shutterstock

    Now for the appeals

    The Trump administration has already filed its intention to appeal to the federal appeals court. This process will take some time. In the meantime, there are at least five other legal challenges to tariffs pending in the courts.

    If the appeals court provides a ruling the Trump administration or opponents don’t like, they can appeal to the Supreme Court.

    Alternatively, the White House could direct customs officials to ignore the court and continue to collect tariffs.

    The Trump administration has ignored court orders in the past, particularly on immigration rulings. So it remains to be seen if customs officials will release goods without the tariffs being paid in ten days’ time.

    The administration is unlikely to lie down on this. In addition to its appeal process, officials complained about “unelected judges” and “judicial overreach” and may contest the whole process. The only thing that continues to be a certainty is that uncertainty will drive global markets for the foreseeable future.

    Susan Stone 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. Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – https://theconversation.com/trumps-global-trade-plans-are-in-disarray-after-a-us-court-ruling-on-liberation-day-tariffs-257812

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Influencer Andrew Tate is charged with a raft of sex crimes. His followers will see him as the victim

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Steven Roberts, Professor of Education and Social Justice, Monash University

    British prosecutors have this week charged social media influencer Andrew Tate with a string of serious sexual offences, including rape and human trafficking, alleged to have been committed in the United Kingdom between 2012 and 2015.

    This comes in the wake of an ongoing case in Romania. There, Tate and his brother Tristan face similar charges of coercing and exploiting women through what is sometimes described as the “loverboy method” of manipulation that is used to control and monetise women through webcam performances.

    A self-described misogynist, Tate is a widespread figure of notoriety for his views on women and his role in the internet “manosphere”. He has millions of followers globally, including ten million on X alone.

    This latest round of prosecutions will likely further entrench the loyalty of those followers: boys and young men who will see their leader as the victim of a corrupt system.

    Who is Andrew Tate?

    Tate is a British-American social media influencer and former kickboxer. He gained international notoriety for his violently misogynistic videos and pronouncements.

    He’s built a massive, loyal social media following through a brand that is part provocateur, part self-help guru and part conspiracy theorist.

    His rhetoric emphasises an aspirational masculinity geared towards extreme wealth and a physically fit body, combined with resentment towards women and so-called “feminised” societies. He has, for example, stated that women should “bear responsibility” for sexual assault.

    Tate is a leading ideological figurehead of what is often called the “manosphere” – a loose network of online communities and content creators who promote regressive ideas about masculinity, gender roles and male identity.

    Tate offers a template for many boys and young men to make sense of their place in the world, playing up ideas that boys are disenfranchised by social, economic, or cultural change.

    This is part of an emotional hook that provides belonging and clarity in a world his followers are told is stacked against them.

    Tate’s content involves both overt and, more often, insidious celebration of harmful gender norms and misogynistic ideologies.

    Research has found boys’ exposure to this content has contributed to a resurgence of a sense of male supremacy in classrooms. This then increases sexism and hostility towards women teachers and girl peers.

    Reinforcing the narrative

    Given this context, it is unlikely the new charges will erode his popularity.

    To be clear, he is not universally admired. In fact, the majority of boys reject what he stands for.

    However, for the significant minority who comprise his hardcore followers, these new charges will likely be used to reinforce a persecution narrative.

    In this way, Tate has paved the way for more violent and extreme misogyny to become standard, not rare.

    This was exactly the pattern when the Romanian charges first emerged. His followers flooded platforms with hashtags like #FreeTopG, reframing his arrest as proof that he was “telling the truth” and being punished for it.

    Figures like US President Donald Trump provide a relevant comparison. Trump has faced multiple criminal indictments and was found liable in a civil trial for sexually assaulting E. Jean Carroll.

    Yet, his popularity among his base has held firm.

    For many of his supporters, these legal challenges are not signs of wrongdoing, but evidence their champion is being unfairly targeted by corrupt institutions.

    Tate is similar in that his hypermasculine posturing and anti-establishment bravado ensures his audience see him the same way.

    Prompting more loyalty

    Given their previous responses, we can already predict how the Tate brothers will respond this time. They will deny the charges, of course, but more importantly, they will use the moment to deepen their mythos.

    We might expect to see talk of “the matrix” of shadowy elites, and the weaponisation of justice systems to silence truth-telling men.

    They will insist the charges are not about what they did, but about who they are: disruptors of a weak, feminised society. This victim-persecutor framing is central to their appeal and will remain so as this unfolds.

    Their followers will, then, likely respond with greater loyalty. For those already steeped in online misogyny and disillusionment, legal accusations such as these don’t raise doubt, but instead confirm the story they already buy into.

    This makes combating Tate’s influence a complex challenge. Simply “calling it out” is not enough.

    As our research shows, Tate’s brand thrives not in spite of controversy, but because of it.

    This is why we need a more strategic, long-term approach to address the harms Tate and other such figureheads represent.

    We need robust gender education in schools, stronger commitments to critical media literacy, and the elevation of alternative role models who can speak to the same emotional terrain without reinforcing misogyny.

    This can include other content creators, like Will Hitchins, but also youth workers or people of any gender from boy’s existing communities.

    A key lesson here is that, for the manosphere’s key figures, being charged or even found guilty of crimes (should that occur) might not signal their downfall or diminish their relevance.

    Steven Roberts receives funding from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety, the Australian Research Council and the Australian Government. He is a Board Director at Respect Victoria, but this article is written wholly separate from and does not represent that role.

    Stephanie Wescott receives funding from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety.

    ref. Influencer Andrew Tate is charged with a raft of sex crimes. His followers will see him as the victim – https://theconversation.com/influencer-andrew-tate-is-charged-with-a-raft-of-sex-crimes-his-followers-will-see-him-as-the-victim-257805

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-Evening Report: New Australian data shows most of us have PFAS in our blood. How worried should we be?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian A. Wright, Associate Professor in Environmental Science, Western Sydney University

    New Africa/Shutterstock

    The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has this week released new data which tells us about the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Australians’ bodies.

    The data comes from concentrations measured in blood samples of nearly 7,000 people aged 12 and over, collected as part of the National Health Measures Survey for 2022–24.

    The findings are concerning, showing PFAS are detectable in the vast majority of the Australian population, to varying levels.

    But are they cause for alarm? What do these findings mean for our health?

    ‘Forever chemicals’

    PFAS, often called “forever chemicals”, are a group of thousands of different human-made chemicals. The molecular structure of PFAS chemicals – characterised by extremely strong bonds between carbon and fluorine atoms – makes PFAS resistant to degradation.

    Many PFAS products are very effective for their resistance to water, oil, grease and stains, while others promote foaming. Since the 1940s, PFAS chemicals have been widely used in many consumer and industry products, such as non-stick pans, stain-resistant fabrics and firefighting foam.

    One of the downsides of PFAS is their potential to bioaccumulate, or gradually build up in the body.

    Important exposure pathways include ingestion of PFAS in drinking water, in food, or absorption through the skin. Absorption of small amounts progressively builds up in the organs of people and animals, particularly the liver.

    Exposure to PFAS is associated with a heightened risk of many adverse health outcomes. These include reduced fertility, and increased risk of some cancers, liver disease, kidney disease, high cholesterol and obesity.

    Digging into the data

    The ABS data measured 11 types of PFAS. The group of PFAS chemicals they selected reflects the most commonly detected forms from previous studies. The concentration of PFAS chemicals is measured in blood serum in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL).

    Three types of PFAS were detected in the blood of more than 85% of Australians, while the remainder were detected in lower proportions of people.

    The type of PFAS most commonly detected in blood was perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). It was found in 98.6% of samples.

    PFOS accumulation has been a major problem in firefighters. Many were exposed occupationally to PFOS, sometimes for decades, and many suffered an unusually high incidence of disease, including a suspected cancer cluster.

    The below graph shows the level of PFOS increases with age. This could be because it accumulates in the body over time, and because many types of PFOS are being phased out. From 2004 its use in firefighting was phased out by major users, such as the Department of Defence.

    PFOS was also found to be higher in males – research shows PFAS is excreted more rapidly in females, including through menstruation and breastfeeding.

    The second most commonly detected type of PFAS detected in Australian blood samples was perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), in 96.1% of samples. PFOA has recently been classified by the World Health Organization as a group 1 carcinogen, meaning it’s a recognised cancer-causing agent.

    The third most commonly detected type of PFAS was perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), which was detected in 88.1% of samples.

    So what are the implications?

    The National Health Measures Survey identified a relationship between higher mean PFOS levels and markers of chronic disease including high total cholesterol levels, diabetes and kidney function.

    However, it’s important to note this is only 7,000 people, and the data were weighted to be representative of the Australian population. There may be other factors, such as lifestyle or occupation, that have influenced the results.

    While these findings may be concerning, they’re not cause for alarm. The scientific evidence more broadly doesn’t tell us conclusively whether concentrations of PFAS equivalent to those seen in the current data would have a direct effect on disease outcomes.

    Some good news is that overall, this data suggests we have less PFAS in our blood compared to people in other countries.

    Why this data is important

    The ABS report provides the most detailed national baseline data on PFAS in the Australian population to date.

    While many people are concerned about PFAS, some Australian communities have been particularly worried.

    For example, in August 2024 it was revealed that a water filtration plant in the Blue Mountains contained substantial concentrations of PFAS. This was probably due to a major petrol tanker crash in 1992 and residual effects of PFAS from firefighting foam used to respond to that incident.

    While people can have a blood sample taken to measure PFAS levels, it’s very expensive. NSW Health advises PFAS testing is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.

    Reports are emerging of Blue Mountains residents that have paid for blood testing getting very high concentrations of PFAS. These ABS results will help people who do receive blood testing assess how their results compare with typical results of a person of the same age and sex. People with concerns should consult a medical professional.

    The ABS data will also be valuable for medical practitioners and public health authorities, providing important information to guide the management of PFAS contamination and its potential health effects.

    Ian Wright receives research and other funding from industry, local and state government bodies.

    ref. New Australian data shows most of us have PFAS in our blood. How worried should we be? – https://theconversation.com/new-australian-data-shows-most-of-us-have-pfas-in-our-blood-how-worried-should-we-be-257648

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • IPL 2025 Playoffs: Punjab, Bengaluru face off in Qualifier 1 for maiden title push

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru will meet in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Thursday in Mullanpur, with both franchises aiming to reach their first-ever IPL final.

    Punjab return to the playoffs for the first time since 2014, while Bengaluru last finished in the top two in 2016. Neither side has won the tournament since its inception in 2008.

    Punjab’s rise this season has been driven by an emerging domestic core, including Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh and Harpreet Brar. RCB, traditionally reliant on marquee players, have shifted towards a more balanced unit, captained by Rajat Patidar, with Jitesh Sharma as vice-captain.

    Both teams are dealing with injury-related changes. Punjab leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is expected to return from a wrist issue, but all-rounder Marco Jansen has left for South Africa to prepare for the World Test Championship final. RCB will likely be without Tim David, who has a hamstring injury, but Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is available again.

    Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer remain key batters for their sides. Kohli has scored 608 runs at a strike rate of 147.91, while Iyer has 514 runs at 171.90. However, Iyer’s form at the Mullanpur venue has been poor, with only 25 runs in four innings.

    Conditions at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium have varied. Early matches saw totals over 200, but recent games were low-scoring. Thursday’s forecast predicts clear skies and temperatures around 30°C.

    The winner will advance directly to the IPL final. The loser will face the winner of the Eliminator in Qualifier 2.

    Punjab hold a slight edge in head-to-head encounters, winning 18 of 35 matches against Bengaluru.

    Squads:
    Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Harpreet Brar, Kyle Jamieson, Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, and others.

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (c & wk), Rajat Patidar, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and others.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pension plan to double £25 billion+ megafunds, boost investment and improve returns for savers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Pension plan to double £25 billion+ megafunds, boost investment and improve returns for savers

    Millions of workers are set to retire with bigger pension pots as the Government confirms plans to double the number of UK pension megafunds by 2030, unlocking billions to invest in Britain’s future.

    • Move secures over £50 billion investment in UK infrastructure, new homes and fast-growing businesses, as pension funds reverse decades of declining domestic investment. 
    • Average earner could get £6,000 boost to their pension pots at retirement from consolidation alone – with further increases expected through the Pension Schemes Bill. 
    • £1 billion a year of costs could be saved through consolidation and better governance, ensuring savings deliver for working people and the economy.

    Reforms set to be introduced through the Pension Schemes Bill will mean all multi-employer Defined Contribution pension schemes and Local Government Pension Scheme pools operate at megafund level, managing at least £25 billion in assets by 2030. Evidence from Australia and Canada shows that this size allows pension funds to invest in big infrastructure projects and private businesses, boosting the economy while potentially driving higher returns for savers. 

    These changes will drive more investment directly into the UK economy for new homes and promising scale-up businesses, with over £50 billion secured through the recent voluntary commitment from pension funds to invest 5 percent of assets in the UK and new local investment targets for Local Government Pension Scheme authorities. 

    This tackles the gradual decline in domestic investment from UK pension funds, where around 20 per cent of Defined Contribution assets are currently invested compared to over 50 per cent in 2012, as the Government goes further and faster to drive growth, create jobs and put more money into people’s pockets through the Plan for Change. More than 50 scale-up businesses have signed a joint letter to the Chancellor welcoming the reforms as a ‘significant milestone in ensuring British institutions back British businesses at the scale required to generate growth, employment and wealth.’ 

    New figures from the final report of the Pensions Investment Review published today also show that these reforms will drive higher returns for savers, in part by cutting waste in the system. By 2030 these schemes could be saving £1 billion a year through economies of scale and improved investment strategies. As a result, an average earner who saves over their career could see a £6,000 boost to their Defined Contribution pension pot at retirement through the creation of megafunds – with even better returns expected to be generated through changes in the upcoming Pension Schemes Bill.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: 

    We’re making pensions work for Britain. These reforms mean better returns for workers and billions more invested in clean energy and high-growth businesses – the Plan for Change in action.

    Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said:  

    The untapped potential of the £392 billion Local Government Pension Scheme is enormous. Through these reforms we will make sure it drives growth and opportunities in communities across the country for years to come – delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Today’s pensions announcements follow a month of major delivery milestones for the Plan for Change: new trade deals with India, the US and the EU, UK growth the highest in the G7, and the fourth interest rate cut since last summer after the government secure the economy’s foundations. 

    Multi-employer defined contribution pension schemes will be required to operate at megafund level, managing £25 billion or more in assets, and the full investment might of the £392 billion Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) will be unleashed by consolidating assets currently split over 86 administering authorities into just 6 pools.  

    Defined Contribution schemes will be given more freedom through legislation to move savers into better performing funds, enabling bulk transfer of assets into the megafunds while ensuring savers’ interests are always protected. Schemes worth over £10 billion that are unable to reach the minimum size requirement by the end of the decade will be allowed to continue operating, as long as they can demonstrate a clear plan to reach £25 billion by 2035. 

    The Mansion House Accord shows DC schemes are voluntarily investing more in infrastructure and businesses. To provide additional certainty that individual schemes will not lose business by investing in private markets, which offer the potential for higher returns but are expensive to invest in upfront, the Government will take a reserve power in the Pension Schemes Bill to set binding asset allocation targets. 

    The Pensions Investment Review confirms the March 2026 deadline for LGPS asset pooling, with a backstop power set to be taken in the Pension Schemes Bill to protect the interests of LGPS members and local taxpayers where necessary by directing an Administering Authority to participate in a specific investment pool.  

    Local investment targets will be agreed with LGPS authorities for the first time, securing £27.5 billion for local priorities. LGPS authorities will work with regional mayors, Welsh Authorities and councils to back the projects that matter most to the 6.7 million public servants – most of whom are low-paid women – whose savings they manage.

    Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell, said: 

    Our economic strategy is about delivering real change, not tinkering around the edges. When it comes to pensions, size matters, so our plans will double the number of £25 billion plus megafunds. These reforms will mean bigger, better pension schemes, delivering a better retirement for millions and high investment in Britain.

    Irene Graham OBE, CEO ScaleUp Institute said:

    This represents a significant milestone in ensuring British institutions back British business – at the scale required – to generate growth, employment and wealth. UK pension funds are central to achieving this goal and addressing the UK’s longstanding growth capital gap that have held back growth ambitions. 

    The ScaleUp Institute, and the broad representatives of the scaleup economy across the UK, have written to the Chancellor today to welcome the Government’s final report on the Pensions Investment Review and the Government’s commitment to double the number of UK pension megafunds by 2030, thereby unlocking billions of patient capital to scaling businesses across the country.

    The changes come as London CIV has become the first LGPS pool to announce its intention to work with the British Business Bank on the launch of the British Growth Partnership (BGP), joining Aegon UK and NatWest Cushon, who last year announced their intention to collaborate on the BGP and invest in fast-growing businesses. These three funds manage a combined £274 billion in assets. 

    The upcoming Pension Schemes Bill will continue the Government’s fundamental reset of our pensions landscape, including by tackling the small pots problem, allowing Defined Benefit surpluses to be safely released, requiring every scheme to deliver value for money, and ensuring all savers are offered a default retirement income product. 

    Countries like Canada and Australia show how powerful pension consolidation can be – having built megafunds that invest in assets that boost their economies. Today’s reforms put the UK on the same path.


    More information

    • The final report of the Pensions Investment Review will be here. Further detail on all calculations and assumptions will be contained in the analytical annex. 

    • Just over 50% of DC assets were invested domestically in 2012 which has gradually declined to just over 20% by 2023. 

    • The £50 billion investment figure combines the Mansion House Accord commitment to invest 5% of assets in the UK (£25 billion by 2030), and the estimate for Local Government Pension Scheme local investment (5% of £550 billion by 2030). 

    • The £6,000 boost to retirement pots is from the impact of consolidation alone, which we estimate to deliver at least a 6-basis point reduction in fees as well as increase allocations to productive assets such as infrastructure projects. This means an average (median) earner saving into a DC pension, who is 22 and saves for their entire career until State Pension Age will see a £6,000 boost to their retirement pot before other measures in the Pension Schemes Bill are factored in. 

    • The £1 billion savings figure for DC schemes is based on a 12 basis point reduction in costs applied to £800 billion assets under management by 2030 – delivering a £960m saving. The Pension Investment Review consultation responses suggested consolidation of pension providers could lead to reduced charges by up to 10-20bps over the longer term and Australia had around a 12bp cost reduction through scale. 

    • The government’s response to the Options for Defined Benefit schemes consultation, also published today sets out how Government will unlock some of the £160 billion of surplus funds from well-funded Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes, to benefit employers, members and the economy. It also sets out that the Government is continuing to consider a consolidator for DB schemes, run by the Pensions Protection Fund. The response is here: Options for Defined Benefit schemes – GOV.UK

    • The joint letter from scale up businesses can be found here

    Irene Graham OBE, CEO ScaleUp Institute, said:

    The ScaleUp Institute, and the broad representatives of the scaleup economy across the UK, have written to the Chancellor today to welcome the Government’s final report on the Pensions Investment Review and the Government’s commitment to double the number of UK pension megafunds by 2030, thereby unlocking billions of patient capital to scaling businesses across the country.

    This represents a significant milestone in ensuring British institutions back British business – at the scale required – to generate growth, employment and wealth. UK pension funds are central to achieving this goal and addressing the UK’s longstanding growth capital gap that have held back growth ambitions. 

    To deliver tangible impacts on the ground we must now see the intent in these reforms, alongside the recently augmented Mansion House Accord, turn into practical institutional investment outcomes in every part and sector of the country, including our rapidly growing innovation and industrial sectors.

    That is why it is so important that the Government’s plans today remain focussed on making sure these reforms are enacted swiftly, and that will place powers into the Pension Scheme Bill to enable compliance.

    The ScaleUp ecosystem across the country looks forward to working with the government and industry partners to ensure the ambitions of this review are fully realised and deliver lasting impact. Thereby ensuring that UK businesses with global ambition get access to the local funding needed to scale, build, and stay in the UK.

    Michael Moore, BVCA Chief Executive, said: 

    These reforms are a real win-win for UK scaleups and pension savers. 

    Countries like Canada and Australia show that when pension funds invest in private capital, you help the national economy and deliver better retirement outcomes. The government should be applauded for learning from their example.

    Megafunds will have the scale needed to develop the expertise required to invest in private capital funds, which will support the development of fast growing businesses and generate stronger returns for pensions savers.

    Jamie Jenkins, Director of Policy & Technical, Royal London said: 

    Today’s announcement sets out a long-term, strategic approach for pension provision in the UK, improving value for savers, and providing greater certainty for employers and their advisers.

    The Lord Mayor of London, Alastair King, said:

    As joint architects of the Mansion House Accord, we welcome the Government’s final Pension Investment Review report as a vital next step in delivering on our shared ambition to unlock capital for growth. This landmark agreement will facilitate the injection of over £25 billion into the UK economy, supporting crucial capital for high-growth businesses and infrastructure projects. With greater consolidation, scale, and alignment between pensions and the real economy, we now have the opportunity to secure better outcomes for savers and long-term investment in the future of the UK. To ensure the best investment outcomes, it is essential that pension funds maintain the autonomy to allocate assets optimally, thereby maximising returns for the savers whose interests they safeguard.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby Market Hall reopening draws stunning numbers of visitors on opening weekend

    Source: City of Derby

    A spectacular week-long celebration is now under way at Derby’s iconic Victorian Market Hall, continuing throughout the May half-term holiday.

    The programme features live music, creative workshops, performances, and family activities designed for all ages in the revitalised Market Hall.

    The transformed Market Hall officially reopened to the public on Saturday 24 May, drawing in over 34,500 visitors in its first three days.

    The grand opening saw thousands of visitors from across Derby and beyond queuing outside Osnabruck Square to be among the first to step into the historic Grade II listed building. The occasion was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Councillor Nadine Peatfield, and the new Mayor of Derby, Ajit Atwal – nearly 159 years since the Market Hall opened its doors in 1866.

    Extraordinary crowds gathered on opening day, with thousands of people queuing to visit on Saturday 24 May. The excitement continued throughout the Bank Holiday weekend with over 34,500 visitors in total. Visitors enjoyed a weekend full of live entertainment and workshops whilst browsing trader stalls and tasting a vibrant array of local and international cuisine on offer. 

    Saturday’s celebrations saw a performance from Deep Down Brass alongside a packed programme of live music, walkabout performers, and family entertainment. The festivities continued throughout the Bank Holiday weekend with local musical talent, performances, and free creative workshops for children. 

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said:

    It was absolutely phenomenal to see that the Market Hall drew in over thirty-four thousand visitors in its first three days. The queues to get in on Saturday were beyond expectations, and I’m thrilled that it has been a successful opening weekend.

    We can be proud that Derby Market Hall is now a vibrant destination with live entertainment, pop-ups, bars, and incredible dining options. By giving people so many reasons to visit there really is something for everyone, and Derby’s Market Hall is truly thriving once again. 

    This is a big catalyst moment in Derby’s ongoing regeneration efforts. The impact on the entire city that 34,500 additional visitors has had shows that the decision to invest in our most cherished heritage building was an important one. Going forward, the Market Hall will contribute significantly to the local economy, generating over three and half million pounds for the local economy every year.

    Originally opened in 1866, the iconic Grade II listed building has undergone a significant £35.1 million restoration – part funded with £9.43 million from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund – creating a vibrant venue that brings together the best of the region’s independent shopping, eating, drinking, and entertainment under one beautiful roof.

    More information about traders and events is available on the Derby Market Hall website. You can also follow Derby Market Hall on Facebook and Instagram.  

    Derby Market Hall is open 8am – 3pm from Monday to Wednesday; 8am – 10pm Thursday to Saturday and 11am until 3pm on Sunday. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Speech: Samantha McCulloch closing address to the 2025 Conference & Exhibition – Australian Energy Producers

    Source: Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association

    Headline: Speech: Samantha McCulloch closing address to the 2025 Conference & Exhibition – Australian Energy Producers

    During my opening remarks I noted that despite some sobering messages from our Wood Mackenzie study on Australia’s investment competitiveness, there is cause for optimism.  

    This week has demonstrated why. 

    We’ve had the welcome announcement from the Queensland Government that it’s releasing nine new areas for future gas exploration to boost future supply. 

    The Minister said: Queensland is open for business.  

    Yesterday, Minister Murray Watt announced the conditional approval of Woodside Energy’s North West Shelf extension – a critical project for Western Australia’s long-term energy security and economic growth.  

    I commend the Minister for backing this vital project, and being guided by science and evidence.   

    On the opening morning of the conference, we heard from Resources Minister Madeleine King who recommitted to implementing the Government’s Future Gas Strategy, including the much-needed reforms to clarify consultation requirements for offshore projects.  

    And, importantly, the Minister acknowledged the enormous economic benefits that Australia’s LNG investment and trade continues to deliver for our nation, observing that ”Every Australian receives a dividend from our energy exports.” 

    And I acknowledge Senator McDonald and the Coalition’s commitments during the election campaign to also back the North West Shelf extension and the coalitions continued support for our industry.  

    As the Prime Minister said earlier in the week, the energy transition cannot happen without security of energy supply, “because you will lose community support if people flick on the switch and the lights don’t go on.” 

    Or as Minister King put it, “You can’t get a transition through warm thoughts”.  

    The fact is that Australia needs the reliable and affordable energy that natural gas delivers.  

    And that will require continued investment in gas exploration and development. 

    I remarked at the start of the conference that Queensland’s gas industry is testament to what can be achieved when government and industry work together.  

    And the Queensland Government continues to build on that legacy.  

    It was encouraging to hear Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki tell our conference that at the heart of his government’s aspiration on energy generation is a simple principle – more 

    “We need more supply to meet future demand and put downward pressure on power prices.” 

    And we also heard this morning from Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro about her government’s commitment to speed up approvals to unlock more gas supply in the Territory.  

    The Western Australian and South Australian Governments are also backing the role of gas in their economic and energy security.  

    We just need this sentiment to spread to Victoria and NSW.  

    I think Kevin Gallagher would agree.  

    We chose this year’s conference theme: The Energy Edge, to highlight the opportunity for Australia to harness its competitive strengths amid the global energy transformation.  

    Our abundant gas reserves, our innovation, and our proximity to fast growing markets mean we are ideally placed to remain an energy powerhouse.  

    To quote former Australian Ambassador to the United States Joe Hockey’s advice to our industry on what our message to government should be: 

    “Give us certainty and stability, and we can do the job. We can give Australians cheaper energy. We can give people in the world greater opportunity… [and] We can make Australia richer.” 

    I could not agree more.  

    And, judging by the extraordinary work that our industry is leading and that has been showcased here this week – in the plenary sessions, the technical presentations, the conversations on the exhibition floor – I am confident that our industry is well placed to harness our energy edge.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI: Futu Announces First Quarter 2025 Unaudited Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Futu Holdings Limited (“Futu” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: FUTU), a leading tech-driven online brokerage and wealth management platform, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Operational Highlights

    • Total number of funded accounts1 increased 41.6% year-over-year to 2,673,119 as of March 31, 2025.
    • Total number of brokerage accounts2 increased 30.0% year-over-year to 4,955,319 as of March 31, 2025.
    • Total number of users3 increased 16.8% year-over-year to 26.3 million as of March 31, 2025.
    • Total client assets increased 60.2% year-over-year to HK$829.8 billion as of March 31, 2025.
    • Daily average client assets were HK$790.4 billion in the first quarter of 2025, an increase of 64.7% from the same period in 2024.
    • Total trading volume in the first quarter of 2025 increased by 140.1% year-over-year to HK$3.22 trillion, in which trading volume for U.S. stocks was HK$2.25 trillion, and trading volume for Hong Kong stocks was HK$916.0 billion.
    • Margin financing and securities lending balance increased 33.7% year-over-year to HK$50.3 billion as of March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

    • Total revenues increased 81.1% year-over-year to HK$4,694.6 million (US$603.4 million).
    • Total gross profit increased 85.9% year-over-year to HK$3,945.7 million (US$507.2 million).
    • Net income increased 107.0% year-over-year to HK$2,142.7 million (US$275.4 million).
    • Non-GAAP adjusted net income4 increased 97.7% year-over-year to HK$2,216.9 million (US$285.0 million).

    Mr. Leaf Hua Li, Futu’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “We started 2025 on a strong note, adding approximately 262 thousand funded accounts in the first quarter, up 47.8% year-over-year and 21.9% quarter-over-quarter. Total funded accounts reached 2.7 million, representing a 41.6% increase year-over-year and a 10.9% increase quarter-over-quarter. Hong Kong remained the top contributor to new funded accounts, as our marketing initiatives effectively leveraged the Hong Kong market rally and IPO boom. We believe that brokers with leading brand equity, product experience and execution capabilities will gain outsized benefits from strong equity market performance. Malaysia posted the fastest sequential growth in new funded accounts among all seven markets. After a year of rapid market share gain in Malaysia, we think there is ample headroom for further growth and will continue to invest in our product and our brand. In Japan, new funded accounts enjoyed robust growth and reached a historic high, as we solidified our position as the go-to broker for U.S. stock trading. Funded account growth accelerated in the U.S. as we enhanced our offerings for active traders and our high-profile advertising campaigns boosted brand visibility. With one-third of our full-year target already achieved, we remain firmly on track to meet our guidance of 800 thousand net new funded accounts in 2025.”

    “Total client assets reached HK$829.8 billion, up 60.2% year-over-year and 11.6% quarter-over-quarter, thanks to record net asset inflow. In Singapore, total client assets rose 11.4% quarter-over-quarter, sustaining its streak of double-digit sequential growth. Average client assets in Canada and Australia also logged five straight quarters of sequential increase. Margin financing and securities lending balance at quarter end remained largely stable at HK$50.3 billion, due to lower risk appetite in the second half of the quarter amid market pullback.”

    “Total trading volume was HK$3.22 trillion, up 140.1% year-over-year and 11.4% quarter-over-quarter. U.S. stock trading volume grew 8.2% sequentially to HK$2.25 trillion, bolstered by clients’ bottom fishing of technology and semiconductor names. Hong Kong stock trading volume increased 21.4% quarter-over-quarter to HK$916.0 billion, as DeepSeek-induced market rally reignited investor interest.”

    “We continued to drive product innovation, empowering retail investors with cutting-edge investment tools and seamless investment experience. In Hong Kong, we unveiled Futubull AI, our proprietarily trained, AI-powered investment assistance, and revealed a new desktop version with more intuitive tools and advanced features. In Japan, we continued to enhance our U.S. stock offerings as we rolled out U.S. fractional shares trading in the first quarter and subsequently launched U.S. options trading in April.”

    “Wealth management client assets were HK$139.2 billion as of quarter end, up 117.7% year-over-year and 25.6% quarter-over-quarter. 29% of funded accounts held wealth management products, a further climb from 28% in the previous quarter. Money market funds remained the primary driver of asset inflow given the seek for stable returns amid market volatility. In Hong Kong and Singapore, we broadened our structured product suite with FX-linked notes in the first quarter. We also onboarded equity funds in Malaysia and money market funds in Japan.”

    “We had 498 IPO distribution and IR clients as of quarter end, up 15.8% year-over-year. During the quarter, we served as joint lead manager for several high-profile Hong Kong IPOs, including those of Bloks Group and Guming Holdings. For both of these transactions, we were the exclusive online broker for IPO distribution. Notably, in the MIXUE Group IPO, more than 70 thousand clients contributed to over HK$1 trillion in subscription amount, putting us first among all brokers in number of subscribers and total subscription amount.”

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Revenues

    Total revenues were HK$4,694.6 million (US$603.4 million), an increase of 81.1% from HK$2,592.5 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    Brokerage commission and handling charge income was HK$2,310.2 million (US$296.9 million), an increase of 113.5% from the first quarter of 2024. This was mainly due to higher trading volume, partially offset by the decline in blended commission rate.

    Interest income was HK$2,070.5 million (US$266.1 million), an increase of 52.9% from the first quarter of 2024. The increase was mainly driven by higher interest income from securities borrowing and lending business, margin financing and bank deposits.

    Other income was HK$313.9 million (US$40.4 million), an increase of 101.0% from the first quarter of 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to higher fund distribution service income and currency exchange income.

    Costs

    Total costs were HK$749.0 million (US$96.3 million), an increase of 59.3% from HK$470.2 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    Brokerage commission and handling charge expenses were HK$143.5 million (US$18.4 million), an increase of 138.0% from the first quarter of 2024. This increase was roughly in line with the growth of our brokerage commission and handling charge income.

    Interest expenses were HK$469.3 million (US$60.3 million), an increase of 50.0% from the first quarter of 2024. The increase was primarily due to higher expenses associated with our securities borrowing and lending business and higher margin financing interest expenses.

    Processing and servicing costs were HK$136.1 million (US$17.5 million), an increase of 40.2% from the first quarter of 2024. The increase was primarily due to higher market information and data fee for enhanced market data coverage.

    Gross Profit

    Total gross profit was HK$3,945.7 million (US$507.2 million), an increase of 85.9% from HK$2,122.2 million in the first quarter of 2024. Gross margin was 84.0%, as compared to 81.9% in the first quarter of 2024.

    Operating Expenses

    Total operating expenses were HK$1,260.4 million (US$162.0 million), an increase of 35.6% from HK$929.5 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    Research and development expenses were HK$386.0 million (US$49.6 million), an increase of 15.1% from the first quarter of 2024. This increase was primarily driven by investment in AI capabilities and related technology initiatives.

    Selling and marketing expenses were HK$459.2 million (US$59.0 million), an increase of 56.9% from HK$292.7 million in the first quarter of 2024. This was mainly driven by strong growth of new funded accounts.

    General and administrative expenses were HK$415.2 million (US$53.4 million), an increase of 37.8% from the first quarter of 2024. The increase was primarily due to an increase in general and administrative personnel to support overseas market development.

    Income from Operations

    Income from operations increased by 125.1% to HK$2,685.3 million (US$345.2 million) from HK$1,192.7 million in the first quarter of 2024. Operating margin increased to 57.2% from 46.0% in the first quarter of 2024 mainly due to strong topline growth and operating leverage.

    Net Income

    Net income increased by 107.0% to HK$2,142.7 million (US$275.4 million) from HK$1,035.1 million in the first quarter of 2024. Net income margin for the first quarter of 2025 increased to 45.6% from 39.9% in the year-ago quarter.

    Non-GAAP adjusted net income increased by 97.7% to HK$2,216.9 million (US$285.0 million) from the first quarter of 2024. Non-GAAP adjusted net income is defined as net income excluding share-based compensation expenses. For further information, see “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” at the bottom of this press release.

    Net Income per ADS

    Basic net income per American Depositary Share (“ADS”) was HK$15.44 (US$1.98), compared with HK$7.53 in the first quarter of 2024. Diluted net income per ADS was HK$15.28 (US$1.96), compared with HK$7.46 in the first quarter of 2024. Each ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    Futu’s management will hold an earnings conference call on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 7:30 AM U.S. Eastern Time (7:30 PM on the same day, Beijing/Hong Kong Time).

    Please note that all participants will need to pre-register for the conference call, using the link

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb0180ca92acc4f49b995ccdec654eeb4.

    It will automatically lead to the registration page of “Futu Holdings Ltd First Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call”, where details for RSVP are needed.

    Upon registering, all participants will be provided in confirmation emails with participant dial-in numbers and personal PINs to access the conference call. Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the call start time using the conference access information.

    Additionally, a live and archived webcast of this conference call will be available at https://ir.futuholdings.com/.

    About Futu Holdings Limited

    Futu Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: FUTU) is an advanced technology company transforming the investing experience by offering fully digitalized financial services. Through its proprietary digital platforms, Futubull and moomoo, the Company provides a full range of investment services, including trade execution and clearing, margin financing and securities lending, and wealth management. The Company has embedded social media tools to create a network centered around its users and provide connectivity to users, investors, companies, analysts, media and key opinion leaders. The Company also provides corporate services, including IPO distribution, investor relations and ESOP solution services.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In evaluating the business, the Company considers and uses non-GAAP adjusted net income, a non-GAAP measure, as a supplemental measure to review and assess its operating performance. The presentation of the non-GAAP financial measure is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The Company defines non-GAAP adjusted net income as net income excluding share-based compensation expenses. The Company presents the non-GAAP financial measure because it is used by the management to evaluate the operating performance and formulate business plans. Non-GAAP adjusted net income enables the management to assess the Company’s operating results without considering the impact of share-based compensation expenses, which are non-cash charges. The Company also believes that the use of the non-GAAP measure facilitates investors’ assessment of its operating performance.

    Non-GAAP adjusted net income is not defined under U.S. GAAP and is not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. This non-GAAP financial measure has limitations as analytical tools. One of the key limitations of using non-GAAP adjusted net income is that it does not reflect all items of expense that affect the Company’s operations. Share-based compensation expenses have been and may continue to be incurred in the business and is not reflected in the presentation of non-GAAP adjusted net income. Further, the non-GAAP measure may differ from the non-GAAP information used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore their comparability may be limited.

    The Company compensates for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measure to the nearest U.S. GAAP performance measure, all of which should be considered when evaluating the Company’s performance.

    For more information on this non-GAAP financial measure, please see the table captioned “Unaudited Reconciliations of Non-GAAP and GAAP Results” set forth at the end of this press release.

    Exchange Rate Information

    This announcement contains translations of certain HK dollars (“HK$”) amounts into U.S. dollars (“US$”) at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise stated, all translations from HK$ to US$ were made at the rate of HK$7.7799 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on March 31, 2025 in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. The Company makes no representation that the HK$ or US$ amounts referred could be converted into US$ or HK$, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from the management team of the Company, contain forward-looking statements. Futu may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the SEC, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Futu’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Futu’s goal and strategies; Futu’s expansion plans; Futu’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Futu’s expectations regarding demand for, and market acceptance of, its credit products; Futu’s expectations regarding keeping and strengthening its relationships with borrowers, institutional funding partners, merchandise suppliers and other parties it collaborates with; general economic and business conditions; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Futu’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and Futu does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    For investor inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Futu Holdings Limited
    ir@futuholdings.com

    ___________________________

    1 The number of funded accounts refers to the number of brokerage accounts with Futu that have a positive account balance. Multiple funded accounts by one client are counted as one funded account.
    2 Multiple brokerage accounts by one client are counted as one brokerage account.
    3 The number of users refers to the number of user accounts registered with Futu.
    4 Non-GAAP adjusted net income is defined as net income excluding share-based compensation expenses.

    FUTU HOLDINGS LIMITED

    UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

    (In thousands, except for share and per share data)

      As of December 31,   As of March 31,
      2024   2025   2025
      HK$   HK$   US$
    ASSETS          
    Cash and cash equivalents 11,688,383   6,495,155   834,864
    Cash held on behalf of clients 68,639,816   88,246,095   11,342,832
    Restricted cash 1,121   7,857   1,010
    Term deposit 4,990   5,240   674
    Short-term investments 2,411,074   2,659,746   341,874
    Securities purchased under agreements to resell 316,301   468,788   60,256
    Loans and advances-current (net of allowance of HK$85,252 thousand and HK$133,380 thousand as of December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2025, respectively) 49,695,691   48,552,818   6,240,802
    Receivables:          
    Clients 534,077   717,361   92,207
    Brokers 17,224,387   17,913,085   2,302,483
    Clearing organizations 3,277,063   8,189,215   1,052,612
    Fund management companies and fund distributors 1,210,472   1,773,358   227,941
    Interest 597,483   624,324   80,248
    Amounts due from related parties 61,200    
    Prepaid assets 63,497   68,993   8,868
    Other current assets 160,330   753,181   96,811
    Total current assets 155,885,885   176,475,216   22,683,482
               
    Operating lease right-of-use assets 253,212   390,760   50,227
    Long-term investments 573,190   698,183   89,742
    Loans and advances-non-current 18,805   18,843   2,422
    Other non-current assets 2,025,841   3,055,412   392,730
    Total non-current assets 2,871,048   4,163,198   535,121
    Total assets 158,756,933   180,638,414   23,218,603
    LIABILITIES          
    Amounts due to related parties 79,090     154,011     19,796  
    Payables:          
    Clients 72,379,135     95,452,151     12,269,072  
    Brokers 43,697,746     38,246,431     4,916,057  
    Clearing organizations 503,396     357,842     45,996  
    Fund management companies and fund distributors 507,076     1,509,340     194,005  
    Interest 86,964     69,180     8,892  
    Borrowings 5,702,259     9,897,658     1,272,209  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 2,574,659     929,084     119,421  
    Lease liabilities-current 144,357     132,750     17,063  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 4,936,805     3,316,253     426,259  
    Total current liabilities 130,611,487     150,064,700     19,288,770  
               
    Lease liabilities-non-current 132,924     275,538     35,418  
    Other non-current liabilities 8,061     8,058     1,035  
    Total non-current liabilities 140,985     283,596     36,453  
    Total liabilities 130,752,472     150,348,296     19,325,223  
               
               
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Class A ordinary shares 72     72     9  
    Class B ordinary shares 27     27     3  
    Additional paid-in capital 18,807,369     18,885,107     2,427,423  
    Treasury stock (5,199,257 )   (5,199,257 )   (668,294 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss (249,916 )   (184,687 )   (23,739 )
    Retained earnings 14,652,946     16,798,269     2,159,188  
    Total shareholders’ equity 28,011,241     30,299,531     3,894,590  
               
               
    Non-controlling interest (6,780 )   (9,413 )   (1,210 )
    Total equity 28,004,461     30,290,118     3,893,380  
    Total liabilities and equity 158,756,933     180,638,414     23,218,603  
               
    FUTU HOLDINGS LIMITED

    UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

    (In thousands, except for share and per share data)

      For the Three Months Ended
      March 31,
    2024
      March 31,
    2025
      March 31,
    2025
      HK$   HK$   US$
    Revenues          
    Brokerage commission and handling charge income 1,082,107     2,310,220     296,947  
    Interest income 1,354,166     2,070,469     266,131  
    Other income 156,186     313,948     40,354  
    Total revenues 2,592,459     4,694,637     603,432  
    Costs          
    Brokerage commission and handling charge expenses (60,301 )   (143,505 )   (18,446 )
    Interest expenses (312,842 )   (469,333 )   (60,326 )
    Processing and servicing costs (97,103 )   (136,115 )   (17,496 )
    Total costs (470,246 )   (748,953 )   (96,268 )
    Total gross profit 2,122,213     3,945,684     507,164  
               
    Operating expenses          
    Research and development expenses (335,487 )   (385,979 )   (49,612 )
    Selling and marketing expenses (292,664 )   (459,202 )   (59,024 )
    General and administrative expenses (301,335 )   (415,245 )   (53,374 )
    Total operating expenses (929,486 )   (1,260,426 )   (162,010 )
               
    Income from operations 1,192,727     2,685,258     345,154  
               
    Others, net 31,741     (20,598 )   (2,648 )
               
    Income before income tax expense and share of loss from equity method investments 1,224,468     2,664,660     342,506  
               
    Income tax expense (185,641 )   (490,959 )   (63,106 )
    Share of loss from equity method investments (3,694 )   (30,997 )   (3,984 )
               
    Net income 1,035,133     2,142,704     275,416  
               
    Attributable to:          
    Ordinary shareholders of the Company 1,038,138     2,145,323     275,753  
    Non-controlling interest (3,005 )   (2,619 )   (337 )
      1,035,133     2,142,704     275,416  
    Net income per share attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company          
    Basic 0.94     1.93     0.25  
    Diluted 0.93     1.91     0.24  
               
    Net income per ADS          
    Basic 7.53     15.44     1.98  
    Diluted 7.46     15.28     1.96  
               
    Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in computing net income per share          
    Basic 1,102,929,775     1,113,426,758     1,113,426,758  
    Diluted 1,114,429,420     1,126,352,076     1,126,352,076  
               
    Net income 1,035,133     2,142,704     275,416  
    Other comprehensive (loss)/income, net of tax          
    Foreign currency translation adjustment (29,441 )   65,215     8,382  
    Total comprehensive income 1,005,692     2,207,919     283,798  
               
    Attributable to:          
    Ordinary shareholders of the Company 1,008,732     2,210,552     284,136  
    Non-controlling interests (3,040 )   (2,633 )   (338 )
      1,005,692     2,207,919     283,798  
    FUTU HOLDINGS LIMITED

    UNAUDITED RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP AND GAAP RESULTS

    (In thousands)

      For the Three Months Ended
      March 31,
    2024
      March 31,
    2025
      March 31,
    2025
      HK$   HK$   US$
               
    Net income 1,035,133   2,142,704   275,416
    Add: Share-based compensation expenses 85,938   74,199   9,537
    Adjusted net income 1,121,071   2,216,903   284,953
               

    Non-GAAP to GAAP reconciling items have no income tax effect.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why we need testosterone products designed for women

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Haddleton, Professor in Polymer Chemistry , University of Warwick

    Many women need testosterone during menopause — but most can’t get it Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

    Menopause is something nearly every woman will go through. As fertility ends, levels of oestrogen and progesterone drop significantly – changes that can deeply affect physical health, emotional wellbeing and everyday life.

    For many, the effects of this hormonal shift are more than frustrating – they can be life altering. Symptoms like brain fog, hot flushes, night sweats, headaches, insomnia, fatigue, joint pain, low libido, anxiety, depression and even bone loss from osteoporosis are all common.




    Read more:
    Horrific, bizarre, lonely: how women going through the menopause describe their experiences


    Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has helped many women manage these symptoms – but one key hormone is often overlooked in both treatment and conversation: testosterone.

    Testosterone is typically viewed as a “male hormone,” but it plays a crucial role in women’s health too. In fact, women have higher levels of testosterone than either oestrogen or progesterone for most of their adult lives. And like the other sex hormones, testosterone also declines with age – with consequences that are only now being fully explored.

    The testosterone gap

    Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is now widely used to replace oestrogen and progesterone during and after menopause. These treatments – available as tablets, patches, gels and implants – are regulated, evidence-based and increasingly accessible through the NHS.

    But when it comes to testosterone, the situation is entirely different.

    Currently, there are no testosterone products licensed for use by women in the UK or Europe. The only exception is in Australia, where a testosterone cream specifically designed for women is available. Europe once had its own option – a transdermal patch called Intrinsa, designed and approved by regulators based on clinical evidence to treat low libido in women with surgically induced menopause. But the manufacturer withdrew product in 2012, citing “commercial considerations” in their letter to the European Medicines Agency, the agency in charge of the evaluation and supervision of pharmaceutical products in Europe.

    Since then, women across Europe have been left without an approved option.

    In the absence of licensed treatments, some clinicians – mainly in private practice – are prescribing testosterone “off label”, often using products developed for men. These are typically gels or creams with dosages several times higher than most women need. While doctors may advise on how to adjust the dose, this kind of improvisation comes with risks: inaccurate dosing, inconsistent absorption and a lack of long-term safety data.

    Some women report significant improvements – not just in libido, but also in brain fog, mood, joint pain and energy levels. However, the only proven clinical benefit of testosterone in women is in improving sexual desire for those with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) following surgical menopause.

    Even so, interest is growing – fuelled by patient demand, celebrity use, social media buzz and a growing sense that testosterone may be a missing piece in midlife women’s care.

    While there is increasing consensus that testosterone can play a role in supporting women’s health, the current situation presents two serious problems:

    Safety and regulation: without licensed products, standardised dosing guidelines, or long-term safety data, off-label use puts both patients and clinicians in uncertain territory.

    Access and inequality: testosterone therapy is rarely available through the NHS and is often only accessible through private clinics, creating a two-tier system. Those who can pay hundreds of pounds for consultations and prescriptions can access care, while others are left behind.

    Innovation

    There are signs of change. For example, I founded Medherant, a University of Warwick spin-out company that is currently developing a testosterone patch designed specifically for women. It’s in clinical trials and, if approved, could become the first licensed testosterone product for women in the UK in over a decade. It’s a much-needed step – and one that could pave the way for further innovation and broader access.

    But the urgency remains. Millions of women are currently going without effective, evidence-based care. In the meantime, off-label prescribing should used with care and use based on the best available science – not hype or anecdote – and delivered through transparent, regulated healthcare channels.

    Women deserve more than workarounds. They deserve treatments that are developed for their bodies, rigorously tested, approved by regulators and accessible to all – not just the few who can afford private care.

    When half the population is affected, this isn’t a niche issue. It’s a priority.

    David Haddleton works for and owns shares in Medherant Ltd

    ref. Why we need testosterone products designed for women – https://theconversation.com/why-we-need-testosterone-products-designed-for-women-256927

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-Evening Report: Influencer Andrew Tate is charged with a raft of sex crimes. His followers will see him as the victim

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Steven Roberts, Professor of Education and Social Justice, Monash University

    British prosecutors have this week charged social media influencer Andrew Tate with a string of serious sexual offences, including rape and human trafficking, alleged to have been committed in the United Kingdom between 2012 and 2015.

    This comes in the wake of an ongoing case in Romania. There, Tate and his brother Tristan face similar charges of coercing and exploiting women through what is sometimes described as the “loverboy method” of manipulation that is used to control and monetise women through webcam performances.

    A self-described misogynist, Tate is a widespread figure of notoriety for his views on women and his role in the internet “manosphere”. He has millions of followers globally, including ten million on X alone.

    This latest round of prosecutions will likely further entrench the loyalty of those followers: boys and young men who will see their leader as the victim of a corrupt system.

    Who is Andrew Tate?

    Tate is a British-American social media influencer and former kickboxer. He gained international notoriety for his violently misogynistic videos and pronouncements.

    He’s built a massive, loyal social media following through a brand that is part provocateur, part self-help guru and part conspiracy theorist.

    His rhetoric emphasises an aspirational masculinity geared towards extreme wealth and a physically fit body, combined with resentment towards women and so-called “feminised” societies. He has, for example, stated that women should “bear responsibility” for sexual assault.

    Tate is a leading ideological figurehead of what is often called the “manosphere” – a loose network of online communities and content creators who promote regressive ideas about masculinity, gender roles and male identity.

    Tate offers a template for many boys and young men to make sense of their place in the world, playing up ideas that boys are disenfranchised by social, economic, or cultural change.

    This is part of an emotional hook that provides belonging and clarity in a world his followers are told is stacked against them.

    Tate’s content involves both overt and, more often, insidious celebration of harmful gender norms and misogynistic ideologies.

    Research has found boys’ exposure to this content has contributed to a resurgence of a sense of male supremacy in classrooms. This then increases sexism and hostility towards women teachers and girl peers.

    Reinforcing the narrative

    Given this context, it is unlikely the new charges will erode his popularity.

    To be clear, he is not universally admired. In fact, the majority of boys reject what he stands for.

    However, for the significant minority who comprise his hardcore followers, these new charges will likely be used to reinforce a persecution narrative.

    In this way, Tate has paved the way for more violent and extreme misogyny to become standard, not rare.

    This was exactly the pattern when the Romanian charges first emerged. His followers flooded platforms with hashtags like #FreeTopG, reframing his arrest as proof that he was “telling the truth” and being punished for it.

    Figures like US President Donald Trump provide a relevant comparison. Trump has faced multiple criminal indictments and was found liable in a civil trial for sexually assaulting E. Jean Carroll.

    Yet, his popularity among his base has held firm.

    For many of his supporters, these legal challenges are not signs of wrongdoing, but evidence their champion is being unfairly targeted by corrupt institutions.

    Tate is similar in that his hypermasculine posturing and anti-establishment bravado ensures his audience see him the same way.

    Prompting more loyalty

    Given their previous responses, we can already predict how the Tate brothers will respond this time. They will deny the charges, of course, but more importantly, they will use the moment to deepen their mythos.

    We might expect to see talk of “the matrix” of shadowy elites, and the weaponisation of justice systems to silence truth-telling men.

    They will insist the charges are not about what they did, but about who they are: disruptors of a weak, feminised society. This victim-persecutor framing is central to their appeal and will remain so as this unfolds.

    Their followers will, then, likely respond with greater loyalty. For those already steeped in online misogyny and disillusionment, legal accusations such as these don’t raise doubt, but instead confirm the story they already buy into.

    This makes combating Tate’s influence a complex challenge. Simply “calling it out” is not enough.

    As our research shows, Tate’s brand thrives not in spite of controversy, but because of it.

    This is why we need a more strategic, long-term approach to address the harms Tate and other such figureheads represent.

    We need robust gender education in schools, stronger commitments to critical media literacy, and the elevation of alternative role models who can speak to the same emotional terrain without reinforcing misogyny.

    This can include other content creators, like Will Hitchins, but also youth workers or people of any gender from boy’s existing communities.

    A key lesson here is that, for the manosphere’s key figures, being charged or even found guilty of crimes (should that occur) might not signal their downfall or diminish their relevance.

    Steven Roberts receives funding from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety, the Australian Research Council and the Australian Government. He is a Board Director at Respect Victoria, but this article is written wholly separate from and does not represent that role.

    Stephanie Wescott receives funding from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety.

    ref. Influencer Andrew Tate is charged with a raft of sex crimes. His followers will see him as the victim – https://theconversation.com/influencer-andrew-tate-is-charged-with-a-raft-of-sex-crimes-his-followers-will-see-him-as-the-victim-257805

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor gains Senate seats in Victoria and Queensland, and surges to a national 55.6–44.4 two-party margin

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    Buttons have been pressed to electronically distribute preferences for the Senate in Victoria, the ACT, Queensland and Western Australia. Labor gained a seat from the Liberals in Victoria, with the other two unchanged. I had a wrap of earlier button presses on Tuesday.

    Six of the 12 senators for each state and all four territory senators were up for election on May 3. Changes in state senate representation are measured against 2019, the last time these senators were up for election.

    Senators are elected by proportional representation in their jurisdictions with preferences. At a half-Senate election, with six senators in each state up for election, a quota is one-seventh of the vote, or 14.3%. For the territories, a quota is one-third or 33.3%.

    Labor has won three of the six Victorian senators, the Coalition two and the Greens one, a gain for Labor from the Coalition since 2019. That’s a 4–2 split from Victoria to the left.

    Final primary votes gave Labor 2.43 quotas, the Coalition 2.20, the Greens 0.87, One Nation 0.31, Legalise Cannabis 0.25, Trumpet of Patriots 0.18, Family First 0.13, Animal Justice 0.11 and Victorian Socialists 0.11.

    On the distribution of preferences, Labor’s third candidate defeated One Nation by 0.87 quotas to 0.81. Neither the third Liberal nor Legalise Cannabis were anywhere near One Nation at earlier exclusion points.

    On the exclusion of the Liberals, 50% of their preferences went to One Nation, 22% to Labor, 14% to Legalise Cannabis and the rest exhausted. At this point, One Nation led Labor by 0.73 quotas to 0.67 with 0.47 for Legalise Cannabis. On Legalise Cannabis’ exclusion, Labor won 42% of preferences, One Nation 19% and the rest exhausted, giving Labor its win.

    The third candidate on Labor’s Victorian Senate ticket was Michelle Ananda-Rajah, the former Labor member for Higgins before Higgins was abolished in a redistribution.

    Usually Labor only wins two Victorian senators with the Greens winning the third for the left. Ananda-Rajah would not have expected to be back in parliament, although in a different chamber.

    WA, Queensland and ACT Senate results

    The Western Australian Senate result is two Labor, two Liberals, one Green and one One Nation, a gain for One Nation from the Liberals. Final WA primary votes gave Labor 2.53 quotas, the Liberals 1.86, the Greens 0.90, One Nation 0.41, Legalise Cannabis 0.28, the Nationals 0.25 and Australian Christians 0.19.

    Until very late it had been expected that Labor would take the last seat instead of One Nation, but The Poll Bludger changed his model to give One Nation a slight lead owing to evidence of stronger Coalition flows to One Nation in other states.

    In Queensland, Labor won two seats, the Liberal National Party two, the Greens one and One Nation one. This was a gain for Labor from the LNP after Labor’s 2019 disaster, when they won just one Queensland senator.

    Final Queensland primary votes gave the LNP 2.17 quotas, Labor 2.13, the Greens 0.73, One Nation 0.50, Gerard Rennick 0.33, Trumpet of Patriots 0.26 and Legalise Cannabis 0.25.

    I will analyse the WA and Queensland preference distributions in a final Senate results wrap article that will be posted after the final state, New South Wales, has its button pressed. Labor is expected to gain a seat in NSW from the Coalition.

    Left-wing independent David Pocock and Labor were both re-elected in the ACT, with no change since 2022. Final primary votes were 1.17 quotas for Pocock, 0.95 Labor, 0.53 for the Liberals (just 17.8%) and 0.23 for the Greens. Labor crossed quota on the exclusion of second Pocock candidate with the Liberals and Greens still remaining.

    Labor’s national two party vote up to a 55.6–44.4 lead

    On May 5, two days after the election, I explained that we needed to wait for “non-classic” seats to have a special two-party count undertaken between the Labor and Coalition candidates. Non-classic seats are seats where the final two were not Labor and Coalition candidates.

    With the major party national primary votes so low at this election, 35 of the 150 House of Representatives seats were non-classics. Before the two-party counts in these seats started, The Poll Bludger’s national two-party estimate gave Labor a 54.6–45.4 margin and the ABC a 55.0–45.0 margin.

    This week the electoral commission has been counting the Labor vs Coalition two-party votes in the non-classic seats, and Labor currently leads by 55.6–44.4. The national two-party vote is still incomplete, but the large majority of non-classic seats have now had a two-party count undertaken.

    The remaining non-classic seats that are either uncounted or partially counted to two-party are favourable to the Coalition, so Labor will drop back a little, but will still win the national two party vote by about 55.4–44.6.

    Labor’s biggest wins on a Labor vs Coalition basis are seats where Labor and the Greens made the final two. For example in Wills, Labor defeated the Greens by 51.4–48.6, but the two-party count gives Labor a massive 80.9–19.1 win over the Liberals. Swings to Labor in non-classic seats have been bigger than swings in classic seats, so Labor’s two-party vote has increased.

    Labor’s big two-party win makes the pre-election polls look worse than they did on election night. Here’s the poll graph I was posting in all my pre-election articles updated with the estimated final two-party margin.

    Only one national poll was accurate: the Morgan poll published two weeks before the election that gave Labor a 55.5–44.5 lead. It’s a shame for Morgan that their final two polls “herded” back to a consensus that was wrong. I will have a full review of the federal polls once all results are finalised.

    Recounts in Bradfield and Goldstein

    A full recount is in progress in Liberal-held Bradfield, where the Liberal was ahead of Teal Nicolette Boele by eight votes after distribution of preferences. Four days into the recount, the Liberal leads by just five votes.

    A partial recount in Goldstein of the primary votes for Liberal Tim Wilson and Teal incumbent Zoe Daniel is also underway after Wilson led by 260 votes after distribution of preferences. Two days into this recount, Wilson leads by 259 votes and will win unless large errors are found that favour Daniel when corrected.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Labor gains Senate seats in Victoria and Queensland, and surges to a national 55.6–44.4 two-party margin – https://theconversation.com/labor-gains-senate-seats-in-victoria-and-queensland-and-surges-to-a-national-55-6-44-4-two-party-margin-257714

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding boost for local sporting clubs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Tuggeranong BMX Club in Kambah is one recipient of the Scheme.

    In brief:

    • The ACT Government offers the Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme.
    • The scheme is providing funding to 38 local sport, recreation and community clubs.
    • Clubs will use the funding to improve their facilities and get more Canberrans involved in sport.

    The latest round of the ACT Government’s Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme provides funding for 38 local sporting and recreation clubs.

    It will help clubs develop places for sport and active recreation that are:

    • fit for purpose
    • sustainable
    • accessible.

    The investment aims to help more Canberrans get involved in sport.

    2025 funding recipients

    The ACT Water Ski Association is one club to receive funding.

    It will use the funds to upgrade its water ski clubhouse facilities at Molonglo Reach.

    This will include a refurbished kitchen and bathrooms.

    The Tuggeranong BMX Club in Kambah will replace its BMX start gate.

    Belconnen Netball Association in Charnwood will build:

    • a new female and male toilet
    • change facilities
    • a fully accessible toilet with shower
    • better storage space.

    “We are delighted to receive this investment from the ACT Government to upgrade our off-court facilities at Charnwood to ensure they are a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all our participants and supporters,”President of Belconnen Netball Association Kim Clarke said.

    “Our current toilet and storage facilities are not suitable to cater for up to 2,000 users on competition days and this support will ensure a safe, accessible and welcoming environment for everyone to play and attend our netball activities and competitions.”

    More information on the program

    The Scheme offers four funding options. These are:

    • The Community Sport Facilities Funding Program. This supports the development of new high-quality, sustainable facilities. It also covers the upgrade of existing facilities. The goal is to help maintain or increase physical activity in the community.
    • The Club Enhancement Program. This helps sporting and recreation groups to further develop their local services and programs. It can include:
      • buying equipment
      • upskilling coaches and officials
      • supporting improvements to club governance.
    • The State Organisation Support Program. This provides funding through three-year agreements. Funds are for improving organisational capacity and capability.
    • The Industry Partnership Program. This allows the ACT Government to co-invest with state sporting organisations in projects that are:
      • innovative
      • collaborative
      • scalable
      • sustainable.

    For more information visit the Sport and Recreation website.

    Read more like this


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    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-Evening Report: How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Smith, Professor of Archaeology (World Rock Art), School of Social Sciences, The University of Western Australia

    Yesterday, new environment minister Murray Watt approved an extension for the North West Shelf liquefied natural gas project. The gas plant at Karratha, Western Australia, will run until 2070.

    This expansion – and the pollution it will release – has led to a recommendation by the International Council on Monuments and Sites to defer UNESCO’s decision on the world heritage listing of the nearby Murujuga rock art.

    Two of the recommendations prior to renomination of the site are to “ensure the total removal of degrading acidic emissions” and “prevent any further industrial development adjacent to, and within, the Murujuga Cultural Landscape”.

    Murujuga has more than one million petroglyphs, some up to 50,000 years old.

    It has the oldest depictions of the human face in the world and records the lore and traditions of Aboriginal Australians since the first human settlement of this continent. It is strikingly beautiful and is of enormous cultural and spiritual importance to the Traditional Owners.

    Despite the immense significance of the site, a large industrial precinct has been built at its centre.




    Read more:
    Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070


    Concerns about the Murujuga Rock Art report

    On Friday, the Western Australian Government released the long awaited Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program Year 2 report. This report examines the effect of industrial pollution upon one of the world’s most significant rock art sites.

    We have conducted our own independent project into the impact of industrial emissions on Murujuga since 2018. Many of our findings support the details in this report but the government’s report summary and subsequent political commentary downplays the ongoing impacts of acidic emissions from industry on the world unique rock art.

    The most significant findings are the Weathering Chamber results. These subjected all rock types from Murujuga to the air pollutants released by industry. The results showed that all were degraded, even with relatively low doses of sulphur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).

    The second highly significant finding is that “there is statistically significant evidence of elevated porosity of granophyre rock surfaces”. This is centred on the industrial precinct in Murujuga. The report acknowledges industrial pollution is the most likely cause.

    This degradation and elevated porosity of the rocks puts the survival of the petroglyphs at risk.

    On our research team, Jolam Neumann’s still to be published PhD thesis at the University of Bonn, Germany, considered the impacts of industrial pollution on Murujuga rocks.

    He used actual samples of gabbro and granophyre rock collected from Murujuga and simulated six years of weathering under current pollution conditions. He found elevated porosity in both rock surfaces. He also collected the residue to understand what was eroded from the rock and how.

    He found there was significant degradation of birnessite (manganese) and kaolinite (clay) from the surface. The dark red/brown surface of the rock became porous and started to break down.

    His work confirms industrial emissions are the cause of the elevated porosity in the report. His work shows the seriousness of the porosity: it is symptomatic of a process causing the rapid disintegration of the rock surface.

    Damage is ongoing

    With Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program report showing evidence of damage to the art from pollution, the state government chose to emphasise in their report summary that a defunct power plant from the 1970s and 1980s was likely the culprit.

    The report’s data suggests this power plant produced about 3,600 tonnes of NO₂ per year, and less than 400 tonnes of SO₂ per year. Current industry in the immediate area produces more than 13,000 tonnes of NO₂ per year and more than 6,500 tonnes of SO₂.

    If the old power plant damaged the art then contemporary industrial emissions will be damaging the rock art at least five times faster.

    Neumann also gained access to a piece of rock collected in 1994 by archaeological scientist Robert Bednarik, and stored in his office in Melbourne for the past 30 years.

    The area where this rock came from now has elevated porosity, but the Bendarik rock shows no signs of it. This means the bulk of the industrial damage is likely more recent than 1994 – and is ongoing.

    Losing 50,000 years of culture

    The rock art was formed by engraving into the outer thin red/brown/black surface of the rock, called rock varnish, exposing the blue-grey parent rock beneath.

    This rock varnish was made in a process that involved the actions of specialised microbes called cyanobacteria. They concentrate manganese and iron from the environment to form an outer sheath to protect themselves from the harsh desert environment.

    The rock varnish forms at an incredibly slow rate: 1 to 10 microns in 1,000 years (a human hair is about 100 microns).

    These organisms can only thrive when the rock surface acidity is near neutral (pH 6.5–7). Their manganese sheaths are crucial to the integrity of the rock varnish, it binds it together and holds it to the underlying rock.

    If you lose the manganese you lose the rock varnish and the rock art.

    Neumann found the proportion of manganese in the Bednarik rock sample was 18.4% by weight. In samples collected in the same area in 2021, the manganese content had fallen to 9.6%. The depth of the varnish was reduced, and the varnish layer was full of holes where the manganese had been degraded.

    The damage by industry over the last 26 years was clearly visible.

    Increased porosity is reducing the density of the rock varnish layer and leading to its eventual degradation. There is also an absence of cyanobacteria close to the industrial sites, but not at more distant sites, suggesting industrial emissions are eliminating the varnish-forming microbes.

    Where to next?

    Industrial pollution has degraded the rock art and will continue to do so until the industrial pollution levels at Murujuga are reduced to zero.

    There are two well-recognised ways to eliminate NO₂ emissions. One uses selective catalytic reduction to convert NO₂ to nitrogen and water. The second method is to replace all gas burning heat production processes with electricity.

    The use of such technologies should form part of the conditions to the ministerial approval of the North West Shelf extension.

    Benjamin Smith receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations. Neither of these funding bodies provided funding for the research discussed here and the views expressed here may not reflect those of these funding bodies. The research upon which this Conversation piece is based was funded solely by private donations from concerned citizens. We received no funding for this research from either industry or government.

    John Black is retired and receives no government or industry funding. The research upon which this Conversation piece is based was funded solely by private donations from concerned citizens. We received no funding for this research from either industry or government.

    ref. How the North West Shelf expansion risks further damage to Murujuga’s 50,000-year-old rock art – https://theconversation.com/how-the-north-west-shelf-expansion-risks-further-damage-to-murujugas-50-000-year-old-rock-art-257615

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Death in custody – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) is continuing to investigate the death of a 24-year-old man in police custody earlier this week.

    Around 1:10pm on Tuesday, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a male had been involved in an altercation with a security guard at the Coles supermarket in Alice Springs.

    It is alleged a 24-year-old Aboriginal male was placing items down the front of his clothing when he was confronted by security guards.

    One of the security guards was assaulted and there were two police officers, who were in plain clothes at the time, in the supermarket who rendered assistance to the security guards.

    The man was placed onto the ground by those police officers, and lost consciousness a short time later.

    Initial first aid was provided, including CPR.

    St John Ambulance attended the scene, and the man was conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital where he was pronounced deceased shortly after 2:20pm.

    The NTPF Major Crime Section Detectives are in Alice Springs investigating the death with oversight from the Professional Standards Command. Police are also investigating this matter on behalf of the Coroner.

    The cause of the man’s death is currently undetermined, and the forensic pathologist is required to complete further investigation to provide any substantive cause of death.

    Police believe the man was involved in an incident near the Commonwealth Bank on Gregory Terrace just prior to the incident at Coles. It is alleged that during this incident the 24-year-old has assaulted a woman who was not known to him. Police have since identified this woman and investigations remain ongoing.

    Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the incident at Coles or on Gregory Terrace to make contact on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    Assistant Commissioner Travis Wurst said “Detectives have collected a considerable amount of evidence and the public can be assured that a full and thorough investigative report will be prepared for the Coroner.

    “Police are in contact with the man’s family and are providing support through our Cultural Reform Team and I have visited the community of Yuendumu today to provide an update. We are also providing welfare support, alongside the NT Police Association, to the members involved. 

    “Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family, our members and the entire Alice Springs Community and we thank them for their patience as we work through this investigation.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, University of South Australia

    A US court has blocked the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs that US President Donald Trump imposed on imported goods from around 90 nations. This puts implementation of Trump’s current trade policy in disarray.

    The Court of International Trade ruled the emergency authority Trump used to impose the tariffs could not override the role of Congress, which has the right to regulate commerce with other countries.

    Tariffs imposed via other legislative processes such as those dealing with cars, steel and aluminium continue to stand. But the broad-based “reciprocal” tariffs will need to be removed within 10 days of the court’s ruling. Trump administration officials have already filed plans to appeal.

    The ruling calls into question trade negotiations underway with more than 18 different nations that are trying to lower these tariffs. Do these countries continue to negotiate or do they wait for the judicial process to play out?

    The Trump administration still has other mechanisms through which it can impose tariffs, but these have limits on the amount that can be imposed, or entail processes which can take months or years. This undermines Trump’s preferred method of negotiation: throwing out large threats and backing down once a concession is reached.

    Emergency powers were a step too far

    The lawsuits were filed by United States importers of foreign products and some US states, challenging Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977.

    The lawsuits argued the national emergencies cited in imposing the tariffs – the trade deficit and the fentanyl crisis – were not an emergency and not directly addressed by the tariff remedy. The court agreed, and said by imposing tariffs Trump had overstepped his authority.

    The ruling said the executive orders used were “declared to be invalid as contrary to law”.

    The act states the president is entitled to take economic action in the face of “an unusual and extraordinary threat”. It’s mainly been used to impose sanctions on terrorist groups or freeze assets from Russia. There’s nothing in the act that refers to tariffs.

    The decision means all the reciprocal tariffs – including the 10% tariffs on most countries, the 50% tariffs Trump was talking about putting on the EU, and some of the Chinese tariffs – are ruled by the court to be illegal. They must be removed within 10 days.

    The ruling was based on two separate lawsuits. One was brought by a group of small businesses that argued tariffs materially hurt their business. The other was brought by 12 individual states that argued the tariffs would materially impact their ability to provide public goods.

    Some industry tariffs will remain in place

    The ruling does not apply to tariffs applied under Section 201, known as safeguard tariffs. They are intended to protect industries from imports allegedly being sold in the US market at unfair prices or through unfair means. Tariffs on solar panels and washing machines were brought under this regulation.

    Also excluded are Section 232 tariffs, which are applied for national security reasons. Those are the steel and aluminium tariffs, the automobile and auto parts tariffs. Trump has declared all those as national security issues, so those tariffs will remain.

    Most of the tariffs against China are also excluded under Section 301. Those are put in place for unfair trade practices, such as intellectual property theft or forced technology transfer. They are meant to pressure countries to change their policies.

    Other trade investigations are still underway

    In addition, there are current investigations related to copper and the pharmaceuticals sector, which will continue. These investigations are part of a more traditional trade process and may lead to future tariffs, including on Australia.

    The Trump administration is still weighing possible sector-specific tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
    Planar/Shutterstock

    Now for the appeals

    The Trump administration has already filed its intention to appeal to the federal appeals court. This process will take some time. In the meantime, there are at least five other legal challenges to tariffs pending in the courts.

    If the appeals court provides a ruling the Trump administration or opponents don’t like, they can appeal to the Supreme Court.

    Alternatively, the White House could direct customs officials to ignore the court and continue to collect tariffs.

    The Trump administration has ignored court orders in the past, particularly on immigration rulings. So it remains to be seen if customs officials will release goods without the tariffs being paid in 10 days’ time.

    The administration is unlikely to lay down on this. In addition to its appeal process, officials complained about “unelected judges” and “judicial overreach” and may contest the whole process. The only thing that continues to be a certainty is that uncertainty will drive global markets for the foreseeable future.

    Susan Stone 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. Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – https://theconversation.com/trumps-global-trade-plans-are-in-disarray-after-a-us-court-ruling-on-liberation-day-tariffs-257812

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jon C. Day, Adjunct Principal Research Fellow, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University

    UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee has again raised grave fears for the future of the Great Barrier Reef, highlighting the problems of water pollution, climate change and unsustainable fishing.

    The committee this week released draft decisions regarding the conservation of 62 World Heritage properties. This included the Great Barrier Reef, for which it noted:

    Overall, while progress has been made, significant challenges remain in achieving water quality targets, managing extreme climate impacts, and ensuring the long-term resilience of the property.

    The comments confirm what experts already know too well: despite substantial investments from successive Australian governments, threats to the Great Barrier Reef remain.

    Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef and other coral reefs around the world. But water pollution is the most significant local threat. That issue, along with unsustainable fishing, is entirely within Australia’s control.

    The World Heritage Committee will consider the draft decision at its next meeting in Paris in July. It may amend the decision, but the concerns are now on the public record.

    What’s all this about?

    The Great Barrier Reef has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage list for more than 40 years. The listing recognises outstanding natural and cultural places around the world.

    The reef is jointly managed by the Australian and Queensland governments. UNESCO’s draft decision expressed “utmost concern” at the findings of last year’s outlook report, published by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. It noted:

    the overall outlook for the property remains one of continued deterioration due largely to climate change, while the long-term outlook for the ecosystem of the property also remains ‘very poor’.

    Poor water quality persists

    Poor water quality is a major issue on the Great Barrier Reef. It is caused when sediment, nutrients, pesticides and pollution from land-based activities, such as land clearing, farming and coastal development, are carried into the ocean.

    In its draft decision, UNESCO noted with “regrets” that the latest water quality targets for sediment and nitrogen – a key component of fertilisers – were not achieved. UNESCO said the updated water quality plan should ensure targets and actions “are sufficiently ambitious and funded”.

    As the below graph shows, actions from 2009 to now have reduced pollution only by about half the desired amounts. At the existing rate of progress and funding commitments, the targets will not be met until 2047 (for sediment) and 2114 (for dissolved inorganic nitrogen).

    Huge gaps exist between current pollutants levels and the water quality targets. These and some other targets are well out of reach under existing funding levels.

    The draft decision also requests a halt to illegal land clearing while strengthening vegetation laws – both fundamental to reducing water pollution.

    Severe weather events exacerbate the water quality problem. In February this year, for example, floodwaters from ten major rivers merged to form extensive flood plumes along 700 kilometres of coastline from Cairns to Mackay, and up to 100 kilometres offshore.

    Such plumes can remain present for months after a flood. They can smother seagrass and corals, and cause damaging algal growth.

    Queensland’s floods in February discharged large plumes of sediment-laden floodwaters towards the Great Barrier Reef. This Sentinel 2 satellite image shows sediment from the Burdekin River estuary south of Townsville.
    Tropwater, CC BY-NC-ND

    The wicked problem of climate change

    UNESCO’s draft decision noted “the overall outlook for the property remains one of continued deterioration due largely to climate change”.

    Ocean heatwaves can lead to coral bleaching and potentially death. Mass bleaching occurred again this year on the Great Barrier Reef – the sixth such event since 2016.

    UNESCO described as “deeply concerning” preliminary results showing heat stress was the highest on record during the 2023–24 mass bleaching event.

    Climate change is also expected to produce more frequent and intense extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones, which can damage reefs and island ecosystems.

    UNESCO called on Australia to align its policies with the global goal of “limiting global temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels”, and to take steps to mitigate negative impacts from extreme weather events.

    The challenges of fishing

    Unsustainable fishing practices damage the Great Barrier Reef. UNESCO’s draft decision noted progress in eliminating gillnet fishing, which is on track for the target of 2027.

    The fishing method involves mesh nets which can accidentally kill other wildlife, including threatened species such as dugongs, turtles, dolphins and sawfish.

    But smaller nets can still be used throughout much of the World Heritage area, so some threats to threatened species remain.

    UNESCO also urged Australia to expand electronic monitoring of commercial fishing vessels, and to ensure the targets in its Sustainable Fisheries Strategy are met. It also called for a comprehensive review of coral harvesting, which primarily supplies the global aquarium trade.

    What next?

    Despite the significant resources and management efforts Australia expends on the Great Barrier Reef, serious threats remain.

    The Great Barrier Reef is struggling under the cumulative impacts of a multitude of threats. The problems outlined above are not isolated challenges.

    Both the Queensland and Australian governments could do far more to boost the health of the reef. Clearly, more funding is needed. Without it, the future of the Great Barrier Reef is in jeopardy, and so too its tourism and fishing economies, and thousands of jobs.

    UNESCO has now asked Australia to provide more comprehensive results from the recent mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, along with an updated plan to improve water quality. Its draft decision maintains the spotlight on conservation concerns for this precious natural asset.

    Jon Day previously worked for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority between 1986 and 2014, and was one of the Directors at GBRMPA between 1998 and 2014. He also represented Australia as one of the formal delegates to the World Heritage Committee between 2007-2011.

    Scott F. Heron is the co-developer of the Climate Vulnerability Index; he receives funding from Australian Research Council.

    ref. UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef – https://theconversation.com/unesco-expresses-utmost-concern-at-the-state-of-the-great-barrier-reef-257638

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • Nepal takes game to new heights with T20 league

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Glamorgan all-rounder Dan Douthwaite was not alone among the foreign players in being unsure what to expect when he headed to the Himalayas to take part in the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) late last year.

    Taking up a playing contract in the mountainous nation of 30 million was always going to be a novel challenge for the Englishman, not least because the Twenty20 league was staged at a ground some 1,350 metres above sea level.

    “I thought I was going to be constantly out of breath or struggling, but it wasn’t actually as bad as I thought it was going to be,” the 28-year-old recalled of his time playing for the Kathmandu Gurkhas.

    “I think I noticed it more so with sixes. When they got the ball it absolutely went miles. A lot of balls … kept going and going and going.

    “When you think you’ve hit one straight up and it’s a 70-metre six.”

    Apart from the extra flight of the ball at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground near Kathmandu, Douthwaite’s other big takeaway from the experience was the enthusiasm of the Nepali fans.

    “Cricket in Nepal is probably like the Premier League in England … there’s a kind of almost Indian cricket feel about the way people appreciate and love the game,” he told Reuters.

    This was the third attempt by Nepal, which became an ICC associate member in 1996 and has qualified for the T20 World Cup twice, to follow in the path of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by launching its own Twenty20 league.

    The NPL hopes the passion of the fans, combined with the country’s unique geography and society, will carve out a niche in a landscape dominated by the likes of the IPL and Australia’s Big Bash League.

    “We’re rich in terms of nature,” said Sandesh Katwal, the chief executive of the Gurkhas, one of eight NPL franchises.

    “It’s a beautiful country and we’re a friendly, welcoming people. The weather, the hospitality suits international players.”

    Former England batting all-rounder and IPL veteran Ravi Bopara, who turned out for Chitwan Rhinos, said it was a great experience, even if he turned down the offer of a helicopter trip to Everest Base Camp.

    GROWING PAINS

    A modest budget meant the NPL could not attract the really big names in the sport.

    All eight NPL franchises fetched a combined price of under 169 million Nepali rupees ($1.23 million) at an auction held last September. Prize money for the champions, Janakpur Bolts, was around $81,000.

    By contrast, India’s Rishabh Pant, the highest-paid player in the IPL, commanded over $3 million in the league’s player auction for the 2025 edition.

    A rushed first season also made it difficult to recruit international players, Katwal said.

    “Everything happened within a one to two-month period … most international players were already occupied. Many didn’t know about this tournament,” he added.

    “Since Christmas was near, many overseas players were in a hurry to return. From the second season I think we can plan to start a bit earlier, October or November.”

    Nevertheless, the NPL proved to be an effective proving ground for Nepal’s domestic talent, Bopara said.

    “There was a group of players who were full of potential but lacked experience,” he added.

    Katwal said he hoped the NPL would provide that valuable competitive experience, as the IPL has done for young Indian talents.

    “It’s a dream come true for Nepali players … sharing practice sessions with the foreign players, they definitely learned a lot. We also had coaches from India, Sri Lanka, England and elsewhere,” he said.

    “Since the IPL has started, you can see young players getting opportunities and it has paid off. The NPL is also an opportunity for Nepali players, a starting point.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence and firearm offences – Leanyer

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Strike Force Lyra, with specialist assistance from the Territory Response Group and Dog Operations Unit, have arrested a 27-year-old male in relation to domestic violence and firearm offences in Leanyer yesterday afternoon.

    On Saturday, the male attended a residence in company of two other persons and allegedly demanded money from a female victim before threatening to shoot and kill her. The victim is believed to be known to him. The offender allegedly continued assaulting and threatening the victim for some time and demanded the victim to remove her jewellery before he fled the scene.

    Later that day, the alleged offender returned to the victim’s residence and made further threats.

    On 28 May 2025, police executed a coordinated high-risk apprehension resulting in the alleged offender being apprehended in Leanyer without incident. During the arrest, the offender was located in possession of a firearm and a machete, concealed within his clothing.

    He has since been charged with:

    • Aggravated assault
    • Assault with intent to steal – Aggravated
    • Make a threat to kill a person
    • Trespass
    • Drive Unlicenced
    • Possess / Carry / Use Controlled Weapon
    • Possess / Use Firearm while Unlicensed
    • Possess Unregistered Firearm
    • Going armed in Public

    He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Strike Force Lyra continues to actively seek out those who commit Domestic and Family Violence offences. Domestic and Family Violence has no place in our community, and we appreciate the brave victim-survivors and witnesses who report these incidents to Police.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Sexual Assault – Palmerston

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 37-year-old male in relation to a sexual assault committed on a female, aged under 16, in the Palmerston CBD late yesterday afternoon.

    The offender was not known to the victim.

    Detectives from the Child Abuse Taskforce identified and arrested the alleged offender earlier today.

    He remains in police custody, with charges expected to be laid later this evening.

    Anyone who witnesses crime is urged to contact police on 131 444 or dial Triple Zero in an emergency. You can anonymously report crime via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2025/D2 published

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve published Draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2025/D2 Factors to consider when determining the amount of your inbound, cross-border related party financing arrangement – ATO compliance approach.

    This draft PCG outlines our compliance approach and risk assessment framework, providing:

    • general factors relevant in determining and testing the amount of a taxpayer’s inbound, cross-border related party financing arrangement
    • specific examples on how we use the factors in our compliance approach
    • the types of documentation and evidence that we expect taxpayers to prepare in determining the amount of their cross-border related party financing arrangements.

    The draft is open for public comment until 30 June 2025. If you would like to submit comments, refer to the instructions within PCG 2025/D2.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Above average bushfire risk expected for large parts of Victoria this winter

    Source:

    Increased fire risk in Victoria throughout winter

    Victorians are facing an increased bushfire risk across much of the state after a warm and dry autumn, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for winter, released today.

    *Emergency Management Victoria’s media release

    March and April saw the fourth highest temperatures on record, below average rainfall across much of Victoria and an extension of the Fire Danger Period in some parts of the state for the first time since 2019.

    These conditions, coupled with existing underlying dryness, has led to a higher level of dried grass and vegetation. In grassland, halted pasture growth has led to grazed-out or bare conditions.

    As a result, an above average bushfire risk is predicted for much of southwest Gippsland, extending into central, southwest and northwest Victoria, as well as parts of northeast Victoria this winter. The increased risk isn’t for long-running bushfires, but events caused by uncontrolled burn-offs and other activities.  

    Normal rainfall is expected this winter, and Victorians can expect normal fire potential across the rest of the state. However, fires are possible on dry and windy days in areas with dry or cured vegetation.

    Even in winter, it’s vital for communities to remain vigilant, particularly if burning-off. Register your burn-off and monitor weather conditions. Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading and never leave a burn-off unattended.

    The emergency management sector is continuing its preparedness activities with statewide briefings and state-level exercising. Incident management personnel are doing all they can to prepare for emerging risks and respond to any emergencies. 

    The Seasonal Outlook for winter is developed by the Australian and New Zealand Fire and Emergency Services Council (AFAC) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers

    It’s important for communities to understand their local risks. Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website.

    Quotes attributable to Acting Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM

    “The lack of rainfall and dry vegetation across many parts of the state is a great concern for firefighters this time of the year and we’re asking people to remain vigilant and not become complacent just because we’re not in summer anymore.

    “While cooler days are arriving, the landscape remains dry enough to allow fires to start and spread quickly if a burn-off gets out of control, especially when coupled with strong winds.

    “The impact and damage of an escaped fire on local communities and emergency services can be devastating.”

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Father calls for smoke alarms in all bedrooms

    Source:

    Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner, Community Safety, Joshua Fischer, Ashlea and Michael Vamplew with Harlow and Cranbourne Fire Brigade CFA member Zoe Russell.

    A Cranbourne father who saved his daughter when a fire broke out in their family home is calling on Victorians to fit smoke alarms in all bedrooms.

    The call comes as the latest figures show that between May 2024 and May 2025, FRV and CFA responded to more than 1,880 residential fires across Victoria, while 18 people died in preventable house fires during 2024.

    Most fatal fires and those that cause serious injuries occur in bedrooms and living areas, however, FRV and CFA’s most recent survey of Victorians revealed just 17 percent of Victorians are protected by smoke alarms in their bedrooms.

    On a cold August night last year, Michael Vamplew and his partner Ashlea woke to hear their two-year-old daughter Harlow screaming for help, after a fire took hold in her bedroom when her bed linen was ignited by a malfunctioning nightlight and powerboard.

    Despite having smoke alarms installed in the hallways, no alarm was triggered as Harlow’s bedroom door was closed, containing most of the smoke inside.

    “We heard her scream and call for help. I saw smoke rolling out beneath her bedroom door,” said Mr Vamplew.

    “I knew we were in trouble and did what any other parent would do – the door was swollen shut from the heat of the fire, so I kicked it down. I just prayed that my daughter was safe. As I opened the door, she was standing there and I just grabbed her.”

    Mr Vamplew saw flames had engulfed the majority of Harlow’s bedroom, from floor to ceiling.

    “If there was a smoke alarm in the bedroom, it would have picked up the initial smoke before there was such a large fire,” he said.

    In line with the family’s home fire escape plan, while Mr Vamplew got Harlow to safety, Ashlea helped to evacuate the other children and contacted the authorities with FRV and CFA arriving to tackle the blaze. Harlow was treated for third degree burns to her feet.

    The Vamplews have since installed interconnected smoke alarms throughout their home so when one alarm activates, all will now sound.

    “Everyone should definitely have smoke alarms in their bedrooms because they allow you to act before it is too late,” said Mr Vamplew.

    “We have three children under four and if the fire had been in our one-year-old’s room, then the situation could have been significantly worse.”

    Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner, Community Safety, Joshua Fischer hopes the Vamplew family’s lucky escape sends a strong message to all Victorians.

    “What happened to the Vamplew family clearly demonstrates why it is so vital to have smoke alarms fitted in every bedroom of your home,” said Joshua.

    CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook hoped this Smoke Alarm Action Day (1 June), residents feel prompted to reevaluate the placement and condition of their smoke alarms.

    “We know fire risk is greatest when you are asleep, because we can lose our sense of smell. Without a working smoke alarm in your bedroom, your family may not wake up in time to safely escape,” Garry said.

    When checking, installing, or replacing your smoke alarms, FRV and CFA advises:

    • Only working smoke alarms save lives.
    • Smoke alarms should also be installed in every bedroom and living area.
    • Smoke alarms must be located between each bedroom area and the rest of the house and on each level.
    • Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling at least 30cm from the wall or installed on the wall at least 30cm from the ceiling to avoid dead air space.
    • Smoke alarms should be interconnected, so when any alarm is activated, all smoke alarms will sound.
    • Fire services recommend the use of smoke alarms powered by a 10-year long life battery.
    • Smoke alarms should be tested monthly by pressing the test button on the alarm and waiting for the test alarm to sound.
    • Smoke alarms should be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or dusted at least once a year to remove particles that will affect smoke alarm performance.
    • Replaceable batteries in a smoke alarm need to be changed yearly.
    • Smoke alarms, including those attached to mains power, should be replaced every 10 years
    • For more information, go to www.vic.gov.au/smoke-alarms
    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Wind turbine fire kept crews busy overnight

    Source:

    CFA crews were kept busy last night with a wind turbine fire at a wind farm in Great Western.

    The wind farm fire began at about 9.30pm on Wednesday 28 May and seven CFA units from Ararat, Stawell and Great Western fire brigades attended the scene.

    CFA District 16 Commander Ben Townsend said the fire was monitored by the company last night and crews were called back when it reignited at about 3.20am.

    “CFA crews that attended did what they could do to create safety zones and remained clear of the structure,” Ben said.

    “Crews were initially called out because the main body of the wind turbine was on fire. They contacted the operator of the turbines and shut them down.

    “Crews left the scene in the hands of the owners to monitor and just after 3am they got called back because a blade had caught fire, dislodged and fell to the ground.”

    The scene is now under control and will be investigated.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Burnie man on firearms charge

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Burnie man on firearms charge

    Thursday, 29 May 2025 – 2:15 pm.

    A 64-year-old man has been arrested and remanded in custody after the discovery of illicit drugs and a homemade gun at a Burnie residence.
    The arrest follows the search of a property in the suburb of Romaine on Monday, where Tasmania Police allege a quantity of illicit substances and a homemade firearm were located.
    The Burnie man was taken into custody and has since been remanded to appear in court at a later date.
    Police remain committed to targeting the possession and distribution of illicit substances and unlawful firearms in the community.
    Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via the website at www.crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News