MIL-OSI USA: Sherrill Statement on the Death of Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

“My heart breaks for the family and friends of Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee, a fourteen-year-old New Jerseyan and U.S. citizen who was killed in the West Bank this week. This tragedy underscores the need to work towards lasting peace and stop the violence in the region that has killed civilians, including so many children.

“I voiced my grave concerns about the ongoing violence in the West Bank directly to the Biden Administration. Now, I am even more concerned by Trump’s clear unwillingness to hold Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accountable, as he should have during their White House meeting. I will work with my colleagues to demand answers and a transparent investigation into Amer’s death.

“It remains critically important that the United States works with our allies and partners in the region to free all of the remaining hostages — including New Jerseyan Edan Alexander — deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, provide safety and security to civilians in the West Bank, and work towards a two-state solution that builds a future where all children — Israeli and Palestinian — can be safe.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Piero Cipollone: Empowering Europe: boosting strategic autonomy through the digital euro

Source: European Central Bank

Introductory statement by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs of the European Parliament

Brussels, 8 April 2025

It is a privilege to be here today to continue our discussion on the digital euro.

There are many compelling arguments in favour of introducing a digital euro, and in my view they all converge on one fundamental principle: strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy.

Today I would like to discuss what strategic autonomy in day-to-day payments means in practice, looking at both the key role of cash and the benefits of a digital euro.

Faced with a less predictable international environment, it is now time to take concrete action.

Retail payments are becoming increasingly digital.^[1] Consumers are increasingly choosing to use digital means of payment in shops, and they are also making ever more purchases online. Yet, a significant share of these transactions depend on non-European providers. Today, people in 13 euro area countries rely solely on international card schemes or mobile solutions for in-shop payments.^[2] And even where national card schemes exist, they rely on co-badging with international card schemes to enable cross-border payments within the euro area. In the not so distant future, this could evolve into dependence on other private means of payment, for instance foreign stablecoins.

Excessively relying on foreign providers undermines our resilience and compromises our monetary sovereignty.^[3] It also underscores the urgent need for a digital euro. Failing to act would not only expose us to significant risks, but also deprive us of a great opportunity.

The vital role of cash in ensuring financial inclusion and resilience

Despite the rapid digitalisation of retail payments, cash remains a cornerstone of the European financial system and is currently our only sovereign means of payment.

The continued strong demand for cash^[4] highlights the importance of ensuring that it remains a convenient, secure and universally accepted means of payment and store of value.

Cash ensures financial inclusion, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining the resilience of our payment systems and economies. In times of crisis, for example during cyberattacks or power failures, cash provides a reliable fall-back option. We have also seen this during the natural disasters that have affected parts of the euro area over the past year.

Against this background, the Eurosystem is fully committed to ensuring that cash remains a widely available and accepted means of payment for everyone in Europe. We have implemented a comprehensive cash strategy^[5], and we are redesigning euro banknotes to make them fit for the future.

Moreover, the ECB strongly welcomes the proposed regulation governing the legal tender status of euro banknotes and coins. As we explained in our opinion, the regulation should clearly prohibit ex ante unilateral exclusions of cash by retailers or service providers. It should also ensure that Member States will hold the banking sector responsible for providing essential cash services to both private and corporate customers, ensuring good access to facilities for withdrawing and depositing euro cash across the euro area.^[6]

The need to enhance Europe’s strategic autonomy in digital payments in a changing geopolitical environment

However, we must also ensure that Europeans have a secure and reliable digital means of payment that complements cash and extends its key benefits to the digital sphere. The growing preference for digital payments means that the acceptance and the availability of cash are no longer sufficient to cover a growing share of use cases. For example, online shopping accounts for more than one-third of our retail transactions, but cash cannot be used online and it is often not possible to pay using a European payment service^[7], meaning we need to rely on non-European payment systems. This is a structural weakness that we need to address.

Europe cannot afford to rely excessively on foreign payment solutions. Doing so makes us dependent on the kindness of strangers in a context of heightened geopolitical tensions. The urgency of preserving our autonomy in defence and energy is already extremely clear. But ensuring autonomy for essential services like daily payments is just as urgent. Without it, we are vulnerable to geopolitical threats and risk losing our monetary sovereignty. Recent international developments underscore these risks.

Meanwhile, our reliance on foreign payment providers weakens our economic potential and our ability to compete. Owing to the fragmented payments market, European payment service providers often lack the scale to offer their services across the EU. This plays into the hands of non-European providers that can offer their services at the European level, and even internationally.

Our fragmented market structure also comes with a large price tag. But it does not have to be this way – we have the power to decide how unified our payments market should be.

Data show that domestic card schemes are losing market share across Europe^[8], while international schemes charge high fees to European banks and merchants.^[9]

And the growing popularity of digital wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay is exposing European banks to further outflows of fees and data.

Most recently, the measures taken by the new US Administration to promote crypto-assets and US dollar-backed stablecoins raise concerns for Europe’s financial stability and strategic autonomy. They could potentially result not just in further losses of fees and data, but also in euro deposits being moved to the United States and in a further strengthening of the role of the dollar in cross-border payments. At the same time, private businesses are increasingly open to accepting stablecoins for customer payments, which could have far-reaching implications for monetary sovereignty.^[10]

Faced with these challenges, we need a public-private partnership to retain our sovereignty. The digital euro – as a sovereign European means of payment based on EU legislation – would be the cornerstone of this partnership.

It would ensure that the euro area retains control over its financial future. By offering a secure and universally accepted digital payment option which would be suitable for all use cases – and, crucially, under European governance – it would reduce our dependence on foreign providers. And it would limit the potential for foreign currency stablecoins to become a common medium of exchange within the euro area.^[11]

The digital euro would provide European consumers with a simple and safe digital payment option, free for basic use, that covers all their payment needs everywhere in the euro area while ensuring their privacy.^[12] It would also protect European merchants from excessive charges imposed by international card schemes and put them in a stronger position to negotiate fees with these schemes.^[13]

In addition, the digital euro could be used offline, making our daily payments more resilient as both consumers and merchants would still be able to use the digital euro without a network connection.

And, importantly, the digital euro would enable European payment service providers to operate autonomously once more.^[14] The digital euro would not compete with private initiatives. Instead, it would exploit synergies and enable private initiatives to scale up more easily across the EU. This would help overcome the hurdles that have led to the current fragmentation.

One example of these synergies is offering an integrated solution that enables private initiatives to provide services across the euro area and effectively cover all use cases thanks to the common digital euro standards.

This would mean that people would not have to look for alternative foreign payment solutions. European banks would be able to retain their customers and be adequately compensated for their services.

The world of payments is changing fast, which is why it is crucial to move forwards with the digital euro legislation now.

The consequences of inaction are becoming increasingly apparent. Inaction could lead to a loss of control over our financial infrastructure, increased reliance on foreign systems and potential disruptions to our banking and credit systems. Delaying the digital euro would slow down our collective public-private response to these risks. European citizens are relying on us to secure Europe’s chance to drive change rather than watch from the sidelines.

Digital euro project on track

Let me now focus on the technical progress of our project.

The legal framework is crucial in shaping how the digital euro operates, including its status as legal tender and how privacy is protected. In parallel, the digital euro project is progressing according to schedule and we are nearing the end of the preparation phase.^[15]

Together with market participants we are working on the digital euro rulebook – a single set of rules, standards and procedures for digital euro payments.^[16] You have previously asked about the benefits a digital euro would have for the private sector. This rulebook will enable European payment providers to expand their services across the euro area by capitalising on the open standards and legal tender status of the digital euro. As soon as the legislation is adopted by the co-legislators, these standards can be finalised and market participants can use them, even before the potential issuance of a digital euro.^[17] This would frontload the benefits for both merchants and consumers. Later this week we will publish an update on the progress we have made on developing the rulebook.

It is vital that the digital euro ensures the stability of the financial system – we have heard your concerns on this topic, and it is one of our key priorities. As I mentioned the last time we met, we are currently developing the methodology that builds a solid analytical base to determine the digital euro holding limit.^[18] This methodology is based on the three pillars indicated in the draft legislation – usability, monetary policy and financial stability. We are building on the feedback we have received from all market stakeholders, and we aim to publish the results in the summer. Preliminary findings already indicate that using the digital euro for daily payments will not harm financial stability, banking supervision or monetary policy.

This public-private effort to regain our autonomy in the retail payment space will be more likely to succeed if it also fosters innovation, as some of you have mentioned previously. Therefore, last October we issued a call for expressions of interest in innovation partnerships for the digital euro.^[19] The primary goal is to experiment with conditional payments and other innovative use cases. For example, we are exploring the possibility of allowing people to pay only if a given service is provided, thereby avoiding lengthy and uncertain reimbursement procedures.

We have seen a lot of interest from various market sectors, with around 100 applicants wanting to experiment further with new use cases and technological solutions.^[20] These innovation partnerships will ultimately benefit all digital euro providers and users. Providers will be able to expand their customer and revenue bases, while users will benefit from innovative payment options.

In addition, technical work on privacy, offline functionality and operational resilience is progressing well. We are also in the middle of the procurement process to establish framework agreements with possible future providers of digital euro services.^[21]

Finally, we are conducting comprehensive user research to gather actionable insights into user preferences and ensure that the digital euro offers people clear benefits.^[22] This is something you also raised in the European Parliament’s recent resolution on the ECB’s Annual Report.^[23]

Conclusion

Let me conclude.

The time to act is now. Making progress on both the digital euro regulation and the regulation on the legal tender status of cash has become urgent if we are to increase our resilience to possible disruptions and reverse our ever-increasing dependence on foreign companies.

We have been highlighting the importance of Europe’s strategic autonomy since the very beginning of the digital euro project.^[24] The good news is that both the co-legislators and the ECB have been working hard on this issue in recent years.

This is a public-private common European project, and as co-legislators you are central to making it happen. Now is the moment to make Europe’s strategic autonomy in the critical area of payments a reality.

For the digital euro to be successful, we need robust and forward-looking legislation. The ECB stands ready to support you with technical input as your deliberations progress, and we will of course continue to update you on the progress we are making.

In a fast-changing world, let’s show all Europeans that we respond to challenges head-on, protect our currency and guarantee people’s freedom to pay as they choose.

Thank you for your attention.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Banking: Fannie Mae Fires Over 100 Employees for Unethical Conduct, Including the Facilitation of Fraud

Source: Fannie Mae

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency (U.S. Federal Housing FHFA) and Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) issued the following statement:

“In President Trump’s housing market, there is no room for fraud, mortgage fraud, or any other deceitful act that can jeopardize the safety and soundness of the housing industry,” said William J. Pulte, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fannie Mae. “Since my swearing-in, we fired over 100 employees from Fannie Mae who we caught engaging in unethical conduct, including facilitating fraud, against our great company. Anyone who commits fraud against Fannie Mae does so against the American people.”

“I would like to thank Director Pulte for his empowering of Fannie Mae to root out unethical conduct, including anyone facilitating fraud. We hold our employees to the highest standards, and we will continue to do so,” said Priscilla Almodovar, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fannie Mae.

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MIL OSI Global Banks –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Draft agenda – Monday, 5 May 2025 – Strasbourg

Source: European Parliament

41 Protection of the European Union’s financial interests – combating fraud – annual report 2023
Gilles Boyer (A10-0049/2025)

– Amendments Wednesday, 30 April 2025, 13:00

40 Control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2023
Ondřej Knotek

– Amendments Wednesday, 30 April 2025, 13:00

39 The European Water Resilience Strategy
Thomas Bajada

– (possibly) Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 30 April 2025, 13:00

– (possibly) Joint alternative motions for resolutions Friday, 2 May 2025, 10:00

21 Banking Union – annual report 2024
Ralf Seekatz (A10-0044/2025)

– Amendments Wednesday, 30 April 2025, 13:00

Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 2 May 2025, 12:00

Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 5 May 2025, 19:00

Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 6 May 2025, 19:00

Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 7 May 2025, 19:00

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Cities across Europe plan to bolster climate action and social infrastructure, EIB survey shows

Source: European Investment Bank

Most EU cities plan to invest more to fight global warming and expand public housing, schools and hospitals, new EIB survey shows.
Of the EU municipalities surveyed, 56% report planning higher spending on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and 53% on social infrastructure over next three years.
Cities across Europe increasingly want to tap new sources of financing for development, on top of conventional national and EU grants.

Most cities in Europe plan to spend more on fighting climate change and increasing public housing, schools and hospitals, according to the new European Investment Bank (EIB) Municipalities Survey 2025. The survey shows that 56% of EU municipalities aim to increase investments to cut greenhouse gas emissions, and 53% intend to boost budgets for social infrastructure over the coming three years.

The EIB published a report on the survey today, to coincide with a conference in Brussels by the European Committee of the Regions to discuss urban investment needs in Europe and support the EU policy agenda for cities.

The survey sample includes 1 002 EU municipalities whose populations range in size from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands, for a total sample population of around 26 million (about 6% of the population of all 27 Member States). Every Member State is represented, with municipalities surveyed per country ranging from 131 in Germany and 107 in Italy, to five each in Cyprus and Luxembourg. Like the 2022 wave of the survey, the 2025 wave contains no country capitals, but does include some island and non-European territories. Municipalities’ responses were anonymised.

While national and EU grants remain the main sources of infrastructure funding for municipalities, more than half of them (61%) are interested in exploring other financing options, according to the survey report. This could, for example, include turning grants into guarantees that would then be used to attract higher levels of funding from institutions like banks.

“In a time of growing challenges, we must ensure that every euro invested delivers maximum impact,” EIB Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris said. “This means leveraging innovative financing solutions to support municipalities in accelerating climate action and other key priorities. The EIB remains committed to working alongside European cities to develop and implement the tools they need to build a more sustainable and resilient future.”

The EIB Municipalities Survey 2025 provides a broad and detailed picture of development plans by municipal authorities, which account for about 54% of public investments in the European Union. In the area of climate action, this figure is about 60%.

In addition to finding that most EU cities plan to invest more in cutting emissions, the latest survey shows that around half also aim for greater spending on measures to adapt to climate change, including protection against threats like floods and fires.

“Municipalities across Europe are showing strong commitments to the green transition,” said EIB Chief Economist Debora Revoltella. “Turning these commitments into tangible results will require continued political and policy support at all levels.”

A persistent challenge for many EU cities is the shortage of experts needed to perform environmental assessments and of engineers to carry out projects, according to the 2025 wave of the survey. Up to 30% of municipalities reported a lack of technical expertise in these areas.

The EIB is helping meet this challenge by providing technical, financial and strategic expertise to cities. EIB engineers and economists appraise every project financed by the Bank. This expertise is also available in the form of advisory support for project promoters, national, regional or local authorities and financial intermediaries.

Background information

EIB

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.

The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high -impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

European Committee of the Regions

The European Committee of the Regions is the EU’s assembly of regional and local representatives from all 27 Member States. Created in 1994 following the signing of the Maastricht Treaty, its mission is to involve regional and local authorities in the EU’s decision-making process and to inform them about EU policies. The European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission consult the Committee in policy areas affecting regions and cities. To sit on the European Committee of the Regions, all of its 329 members and 329 alternates must either hold an electoral mandate or be politically accountable to an elected assembly in their home regions and cities.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: Albania: €90 million EU financial package for Durrës – Rrogozhina railway upgrade

Source: European Investment Bank

The EU funds, consisting of a €60.5 million grant under the Western Balkans Investment Framework and a €30 million loan from EIB Global, will help to modernise the 34 km railway line.
The financial package was signed at a ceremony held in Tirana, attended by high-level representatives from the European Commission, the government of Albania and EIB Global.
The project will facilitate safer and more efficient and sustainable passenger and freight transportation, contributing to socioeconomic growth and regional integration.

During High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas’ official visit to Albania, an EU financial package worth €90.5 million for the reconstruction of the Durrës – Rrogozhina railway section was signed by the European Investment Bank (EIB Global) and the government of Albania. The funds consist of a €60.5 million EU grant channelled under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) and a €30 million EIB Global loan. The agreement was signed by EIB Global Director of the Enlargement and Neighbourhood Department Lionel Rapaille and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy of Albania Belinda Balluku, in the presence of Vice-President Kallas and Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama.

The funds will make it possible to modernise a 34 km railway line between the port of Durrës and Rrogozhina in central Albania, which lies on the multi-modal Pan-European Corridor VIII connecting the southern Italian ports, Albania, North Macedonia and Bulgaria. This project is of strategic importance, extending the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), and also as part of the European Union’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. The project is expected to cost a total of €121 million and €30 million in co-financing will be provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas said: “The signature of the European Investment Bank loan for the construction of the Durrës – Rrogozhina railway track as part of Corridor VIII, co-funded by the EU, is an important milestone. This project will create new jobs, enhance trade and improve connectivity by bringing Albania closer to its neighbours and close to the European Union. It will also serve as a critical route between Member States and NATO for military mobility in Southeast Europe which is extremely important in the current security environments.”

EIB Vice-President Rober de Groot, in charge of the Western Balkans, said: “We are delighted to be part of this significant Team Europe effort, which underscores our shared commitment to developing safer, smarter and greener transportation links in the Western Balkans. As a key segment of Corridor VIII, this project will enhance Albania’s socioeconomic development by improving accessibility and facilitating trade and economic connections within the region and with the European Union. Going forward, EIB Global will continue to provide technical and financial assistance to support Albania’s EU accession process, as well as through the New Growth Plan.”

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama said: “The signing that took place is part of a massive investment program in railway infrastructure. This is why the five-year period that separates us from the end of this decade will also be a period where railways return to Albania. This is one of many reasons not only to believe but also to fight for our membership in the EU. Thanks to this relationship, we are able today to carry out a series of investments that would otherwise be impossible for us.”

As one of the leading financiers in the transportation sector in the Western Balkans, EIB Global is backing several rail projects in Albania. This includes a loan for the Vorë to Hani-Hotit railway line and technical support provided under the EIB’s Economic Resilience Initiative for the second phase of the Pan-European Corridor VIII railway. The JASPERS advisory programme has also supported the development of an action plan to strengthen the management capacity of Albania’s railway infrastructure.

Background information:

About the EIB and EIB Global:

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It finances investments that pursue EU policy objectives.

EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to people, companies and institutions through its offices across the world.

About EIB Global in the Western Balkans:

The EIB is a leading international financier in the Western Balkans. Since 2009, the Bank has financed projects worth almost €11 billion in the region. Alongside its continued support to help rebuild and upgrade public infrastructure, since 2010 the EIB has expanded into many new areas, such as healthcare, research and development, education and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). For detailed information on EIB activities in the Western Balkans, please visit: www.eib.org/en/publications/the-eib-in-the-western-balkans

About EIB Global in Albania:

EIB Global has been active in Albania since 1995. To date, 27 projects have been financed and over €700 million has been invested, predominantly in key transport, energy, water and wastewater infrastructure. For more information about EIB projects in Albania, please visit: https://www.eib.org/en/projects/regions/enlargement/the-western-balkans/albania/index.htm

€90 million EU financial package for Durrës – Rrogozhina railway upgrade in Albania
€90 million EU financial package for Durrës – Rrogozhina railway upgrade in Albania
©EIB
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MIL OSI Europe News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group opens office in Estonia to bolster strategic investments

Source: European Investment Bank

EIB Group inaugurates an office in Estonia to support strategic investments and sustainable growth.
New presence in Tallinn to deepen cooperation with partners in public and private sectors.
Move comes day after EIB Group representation opened in Latvia, highlighting reinforced focus on Baltics.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group opened an office in Estonia today to drive strategic investments and sustainable growth in the country. The new office, located in the capital Tallinn, will focus on priority projects in areas including climate action, digitalisation, security and defence.

The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), will use its presence in Tallinn to deepen cooperation with Estonian partners in the public and private sectors including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“The opening of our office in Tallinn is a landmark moment,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “This new presence will not only connect with Estonian businesses but also support the local financial markets in their needs. Our aim is to foster innovation, drive sustainable development, and support Estonia’s economy across multiple sectors.”

„I welcome the EIB to Estonia,“ said Estonian Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi. „The EIB Group is well-known for many big clients in Estonia, including the government itself – but the local presence will increase the awareness among larger group of stakeholders including the core of our economy the SMEs – who benefit from the EIB via the intermediaries. I particularly welcome the EIB´s increased support to European security and defence.“

The EIB Group has invested €5.6 billion in Estonia since the start of operations in the country in 1993 – with more than €4 billion from the EIB and over €1 billion from the EIF. Last year, EIB Group financing in Estonia totalled €498 million and is expected to support total investments of €2.2 billion – representing 5.6% of Estonian gross domestic product (GDP), the highest in Europe.

Recent EIB operations include loans of €700 million to the Estonian government for European Union grants co-financing, €31 million to renewable-energy company Sunly for solar-power expansion and €18 million to green-technology startup UP Catalyst for converting carbon-dioxide emissions into carbon-neutral graphite and nanotubes. For its part, the EIF recently moved to support Estonian businesses through financing deals with banks and other financial institutions including LHV Pank, SEB Pank, Swedbank and Hüpoteeklaen.

The Tallinn Office, located in the Rotermanni quarter, is headed by Götz von Thadden, a German national with over 20 years of experience within the EIB Group. “The new office reflects our excellent relationship with our valued shareholder. We have a long and successful history with public and private project promoters in Estonia, and I look forward to collaborating with local partners to support the country’s sustainable growth.”

Future priorities for the EIB Group in Estonia include supporting renewable energy projects such as solar, wind, and energy storage; improving infrastructure and fostering business innovation and startups.

The EIB Group has recently approved additional measures to support security and defence in Europe. This will allow to finance projects dedicated to military uses, such as barracks, storage facilities, drones, helicopters, radars, satellites, advanced avionics, propulsion, and optics, while maintaining strong financing capacity.

The bank has a pipeline of 14 defence projects expected for approval across Europe, including those in drones, space, cybersecurity, and quantum technologies, as well as facilities enhancing Europe’s defense capabilities.

The EIB Group’s Office in Tallinn reflects a reinforced commitment to the Baltics as a whole, where until this week the organisation had a hub covering all three Baltic States in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius. Yesterday, the EIB Group opened its first office in the Latvian capital Riga.

Background information

EIB

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.

The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high -impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IEPFA and IPPB Sign MoA to Launch Phase 2 of “Niveshak Didi” to Boost Rural Women’s Financial Literacy

Source: Government of India

IEPFA and IPPB Sign MoA to Launch Phase 2 of “Niveshak Didi” to Boost Rural Women’s Financial Literacy

“Niveshak Didi” trains women postal workers and community leaders to act as financial educators within their local regions

The initiative Empowers Women, Promotes Financial Literacy and reaches 55,000 beneficiaries in Rural India

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 8:07PM by PIB Delhi

New Delhi, April 8, 2025 — In a landmark step toward financial inclusion and rural empowerment, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, and India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), operating under the Department of Posts, have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to jointly launch Phase 2 of the “Niveshak Didi” initiative. This strategic collaboration aims to scale financial literacy among women in rural, semi-urban, and underserved areas through grassroots mobilization and community-driven education.

“Niveshak Didi” is a unique initiative that trains women postal workers and community leaders to act as financial educators within their local regions. During Phase 1, more than 55,000 beneficiaries participated in IPPB Financial Literacy Camps across India, with approx. 60% female beneficiaries mostly in the youth & economically active age group. Every 2 out of 3 such beneficiaries belonged to deep rural locations ensuring maximum penetration at the grassroots levels.

Building on the success of Phase 1, this new phase will see the deployment of over 4,000 financial literacy camps across India. These camps will be led by almost 40,000 women postal workers trained as Niveshak Didis, who will conduct sessions on responsible investing, fraud awareness, savings habits, and digital banking tools.

Lt Col Aditya Sinha (Retd.), General Manager, IEPFA, highlighted the mission behind the initiative, “Niveshak Didi goes beyond being a campaign — it drives a grassroots movement that delivers financial knowledge directly to the last mile. We aim to empower rural women with the skills and confidence to make informed financial decisions. By partnering with IPPB, we ensure that awareness turns into action and that financial education becomes a catalyst for real community transformation. We believe that when women gain financial literacy, entire families and communities benefit.”

Mr. Gursharan Rai Bansal, Chief General Manager & CSMO, IPPB, added with conviction, “We see women as natural community influencers. When we provide them with the right knowledge and tools, they don’t just manage their own finances better — they lead change in their communities. Through this partnership with IEPFA, we are deepening our mission to bring inclusive, accessible banking to every doorstep. Niveshak Didi enables us to build trust, inspire & share financial discipline, and create a lasting impact at the grassroots level.”

About Investor Education And Protection Fund Authority

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) is a statutory body functioning under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. It was established with a key objective to ensure that investors across the country are both informed and protected. In today’s dynamic financial landscape, where products and services are constantly evolving, the role of IEPFA becomes even more significant.

IEPFA plays a crucial role in promoting financial literacy, making it easier for individuals to understand the importance of managing personal finances. From budgeting and saving to making informed investment decisions, IEPFA empowers citizens with the knowledge needed to make sound financial choices.

One of its primary missions is to educate people about their rights and responsibilities as investors. This becomes particularly important for individuals living in rural and underserved areas, who may have limited access to reliable financial education or resources. By reaching out to these communities, IEPFA ensures that no one is left behind in the journey toward financial empowerment.

IEPFA’s vision is to build a financially aware and confident India, where every individual, regardless of background, has the tools and knowledge to secure their financial future.

About India Post Payments Bank

India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has been established under the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communication with 100% equity owned by the Government of India. IPPB was launched on September 1, 2018. The bank has been set up with the vision to build the most accessible, affordable and trusted bank for the common man in India. The fundamental mandate of India Post Payments Bank is to remove barriers for the unbanked & underbanked and reach the last mile leveraging the Postal network comprising ~1,65,000 Post Offices (~140,000 in rural areas) and ~3,00,000 Postal employees.

IPPB’s reach and its operating model is built on the key pillars of India Stack – enabling Paperless, Cashless and Presence-less banking in a simple and secure manner at the customers’ doorstep, through a CBS-integrated smartphone and biometric device. Leveraging frugal innovation and with a high focus on ease of banking for the masses, IPPB delivers simple and affordable banking solutions through intuitive interfaces available in 13 languages to 11 Crore customers across 5.57 lakh villages & towns in India.

IPPB is committed to provide a fillip to a less cash economy and contribute to the vision of Digital India. India will prosper when every citizen will have equal opportunity to become financially secure and empowered. Our motto stands true – Every customer is important, every transaction is significant and every deposit is valuable.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed acquisition of shareholding in Vastu Housing Finance Corporation Limited, APAC Financial Services Limited, and Quantiphi, Inc by Multiples Plenty Private Equity GIFT Fund

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 08 APR 2025 8:02PM by PIB Delhi

The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed acquisition of shareholding in Vastu Housing Finance Corporation Limited, APAC Financial Services Limited, and Quantiphi, Inc by Multiples Plenty Private Equity GIFT Fund.

The proposed combination envisages the acquisition by Multiples Plenty Private Equity GIFT Fund (Multiples GIFT Fund/Acquirer) of certain shareholding in: (i) Vastu Housing Finance Corporation Limited (Vastu) currently held by Plenty Private Equity Fund I Limited (Plenty), Multiples Private Equity Fund II LLP (Multiples Fund II), and Plenty CI Fund I Limited (Plenty CI); (ii) APAC Financial Services Limited (APAC) currently held by Plenty and Multiples Fund II; and (iii) Quantiphi, Inc (Quantiphi) currently held by Plenty and Multiples Fund II.

Multiples GIFT Fund is a newly incorporated trust, formed under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 and registered with International Financial Services Centres Authority as a Restricted Scheme. It is managed by Multiples Asset Management IFSC LLP, a limited liability partnership incorporated under the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008. Plenty, Multiples Fund II, and Plenty CI, and the Acquirer are all funds belonging to the Multiples Group.

Vastu is a housing finance company, and is engaged in the provisions of retail loans, namely, home loans and loans to small and medium enterprises (MSME). Vastu is also present in the segments of provision of auto loans and loans against property through its wholly owned subsidiary, Vastu Finserve India Private Limited.

APAC is a Nonbanking Financial Company – Middle Layer registered with the Reserve Bank of India since February 2018. APAC is engaged in the provision of retail loans to MSMEs.

Quantiphi is incorporated in the United States, and is engaged in, inter alia, the provision of various artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions, and data analytics. Quantiphi is present in India through its subsidiary, Quantiphi Analytics Solutions Private Limited.

Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Boston City Councilor Agrees to Plead Guilty to Federal Public Corruption Charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

City Councilor for Boston’s District 7, Tania Fernandes Anderson, allegedly pocketed $7,000 cash from staff member’s city-funded bonus

BOSTON – Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson has agreed to plead guilty to federal public corruption charges in connection with an alleged kickback scheme to obtain thousands of dollars in cash from a staff member in exchange for a large bonus.

Tania Fernandes Anderson, 46, of Boston, has agreed to plead guilty to count one of wire fraud and one count of theft concerning a program receiving federal funds. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled by the Court. In December 2024, Fernandes Anderson was indicted by a federal grand jury. Per the plea agreement, the government is recommending a sentence of one year and one day in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $13,000.

Fernandes Anderson currently serves as City Councilor for Boston’s District 7, which includes Roxbury, Dorchester, Fenway and part of the South End. She was first elected to a two-year term in November 2021 and won re-election in November 2023.

According to the charging documents, in or about 2022, Fernandes Anderson hired two members of her immediate family as salaried employees of her City Councilor Staff. Because City Councilors are prohibited by law from hiring immediate family members to their paid staff, Fernandes Anderson was required to terminate their salaried employment in or about August 2022. Additionally, from in or about March 2023 to May 2023, the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission notified Fernandes Anderson of its findings and that it would be seeking a $5,000 civil penalty payment from her.

It is alleged that, in or about November 2022, Fernandes Anderson allegedly emailed a City of Boston employee regarding her hiring of Staff Member A – a relative of Fernandes Anderson who was not an immediate family member – as a salaried employee. In her email to the City of Boston employee, it is alleged that Fernandes Anderson falsely represented that she and Staff Member A were not related:

From in or about early to mid-2023, Fernandes Anderson was allegedly facing personal financial difficulty, which included the outstanding $5,000 civil penalty payment to the Ethics Commission. It is further alleged that, in or about early May 2023, Fernandes Anderson told Staff Member A that she would give them extra pay in the form of a large bonus, but that Staff Member A would have to give a portion of the bonus back to Fernandes Anderson. Staff Member A agreed to the arrangement with Fernandes Anderson.

On or about May 3, 2023, Fernandes Anderson allegedly sent an email to a City of Boston employee to process bonus payments for her City Councilor Staff. In the email, Fernandes Anderson instructed the City of Boston employee to process a bonus payment of $13,000 to Staff Member A – more than double the total bonuses paid to all other Fernandes Anderson staff combined. Fernandes Anderson allegedly did not disclose the bonus kickback arrangement she had made with Staff Member A to the City of Boston employee.

Staff Member A deposited the bonus check on or about May 26, 2023 into their account at Santander Bank. It is alleged that, at Fernandes Anderson’s direction, Staff Member A then made separate cash withdrawals of the payment on three separate dates: $3,000 on May 31, 2023; $3,000 on June 5, 2023; and $4,000 on June 9, 2023.

It is alleged that, on June 9, 2023, immediately following the final cash withdrawal, Fernandes Anderson and Staff Member A arranged to meet in a bathroom at Boston City Hall. There, Staff Member A allegedly provided Fernandes Anderson with $7,000 in cash:

According to the signed plea agreement, for tax years 2021, 2022 and 2023, Fernandes Anderson filed fraudulent federal income tax returns with the IRS. Specifically, it is alleged that Fernandes Anderson willfully omitted: approximately $11,000 in income that she earned from a Massachusetts-based corporation from her 2021 tax return; campaign funds that she used for her own personal enrichment from her 2022 and 2023 tax returns; and the $7,000 kickback that she received from Staff Member A from her 2023 tax return.

The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley, Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Mulcahy and Dustin Chao of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Banks Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Mental Health Care and Substance Use Disorder Recovery

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Jim Banks (R-IN), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, introduced the Providing Empathetic and Effective Recovery (PEER) Support Act, bipartisan legislation to support mental health care and substance use disorder recovery. Specifically, the bill would elevate peer support specialists—individuals with lived experience with a mental health condition or substance use disorder who are certified to assist individuals and their families in recovery through advocacy, relationship and community building, resource sharing, mentorship, goal setting, and more. Although peer support specialists have been shown to decrease substance use for individuals with substance use disorders and reduce re-hospitalization for individuals with mental health conditions, they often face significant barriers to entering or staying in the profession. The PEER Support Act would help remove these barriers, address workforce shortages in the field, and support access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

“Peer support specialists play an important role in mental health and substance use disorder treatment teams, and provide valuable support to individuals in recovery,” said Kaine. “At a time where we need to expand access to mental health care and substance use disorder treatment, this bipartisan legislation is critical to helping peer support specialists enter the field.”

“As millions of Americans struggle to overcome addiction, access to peer support specialists saves lives. This bipartisan bill helps better connect these experts—who have overcome addiction themselves—to those in recovery,” said Banks.

“Fifty-two million adults in the U.S.—or 1 in 5 adults—have a mental health condition, and we lack the workforce to help provide much-needed services. The Bipartisan Policy Center has recommended policies advancing peer support specialists and boosting recovery services, and we believe the reintroduction of the PEER Support Act is a critical step toward addressing the shortage of behavioral health workers in this country,” said Michele Stockwell, President of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

“Trained peer supporters make an incredible difference in helping people recover, and this bill positions peer support specialists to be a lifeline throughout the behavioral health care system,” said Bruce Curser, Executive Director of Mental Health America of Virginia.

“I’m both excited and incredibly grateful to see the reintroduction of the PEER Support Act, as it highlights the real and significant barriers faced by Peer Recovery Specialists in our communities. For many of us, including myself, entering this workforce can be an unnecessarily difficult challenge after overcoming the obstacles created by our lived experiences with substance use and mental health diagnoses. The PEER Support Act is essential in creating more job opportunities, fostering professional growth, ensuring recognition as equal professionals, and enabling the collection of crucial data that supports this evidence-based practice,” said Rachel Alderman, AAS, RPRS, CCHW, Community Health Center of the New River Valley (Christiansburg, Virginia).

“I am more than happy to see advocates stepping up to support Peer Recovery Specialists in this way. Having personally faced barriers in this field due to past charges, I know how discouraging it can be to be turned away from a position despite a commitment to recovery and helping others. I almost gave up, but I am so grateful for the opportunity to prove that a past does not define one’s future. Peer support is built on connection, understanding, and lived experience—showing others that recovery is not only possible but sustainable. This bill is vital to ensuring that those who have walked the path of recovery can continue to uplift and guide others on their own journeys,” said Kellie Simpkins, CPRS, Community Health Center of the New River Valley (Christiansburg, Virginia).

Specifically, the PEER Support Act would:

Codify the Office of Recovery in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to
- Train, educate, and support the professional development of peer support specialists.
- Research and publish best practice recommendations for the training, certification, and supervision of peer support specialists for entities that employ these professionals.
- Recommend career pathways for peer support specialists.
- Provide leadership in the identification of new and emerging issues related to recovery support services.
Instruct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to conduct a study to research states’ screening processes for prospective peer support specialists that may pose undue barriers to their certification, and provide evidence-based recommendations for overcoming those barriers. Some prospective peer support specialists cannot get a license because of their past interactions with law enforcement related to their substance use disorder (such as convictions for possession of drugs that occurred prior to recovery).
Direct the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to revise the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system to recognize peer support specialists as a profession, which would help ensure accurate data reporting on the field.

The PEER Support Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The PEER Support Act is supported by American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD), American Association of Suicidality, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Psychological Association Services (APA Services), Anxiety & Depression Association of America, Ballad Health, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Face and Voices of Recovery, Fountain House, International Society for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses, Lakeshore Foundation, Mental Health America (MHA), Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA), NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Association for Peer Supporters (NAPS), National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD), National Council for Mental Wellbeing, National Federation of Families, Overdose Prevention Initiative, Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, Psychotherapy Action Network, RI International, SMART Recovery, and Trust for America’s Health (TFAH).

Full text of the PEER Support Act is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden Launch Investigation into Google, Microsoft Partnerships with AI Developers Anthropic, OpenAI

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

April 08, 2025

“We are concerned that corporate partnerships within the AI sector discourage competition, circumvent our antitrust laws, and result in fewer choices and higher prices for businesses and consumers using AI tools.”

Text of Letter to Google/Anthropic (PDF) | Text of Letter to Microsoft/OpenAI (PDF)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) wrote to cloud service providers Google and Microsoft with concerns that their respective partnerships with AI developers Anthropic and OpenAI may violate antitrust laws, leading to fewer choices and higher prices for businesses and consumers using AI tools.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned in a January 2025 report that these types of partnerships might pose “risks to competition and consumers, such as ‘. . . locking in the market dominance of large incumbent technology firms.” The FTC and the Department of Justice have also raised concerns about these partnerships, warning that they can act as de facto mergers and allow companies to consolidate talent, information, and resources, while bypassing the traditional scrutiny associated with mergers and acquisitions.

These partnerships can involve minority stakes and significant investment from cloud service providers (CSPs), like Google and Microsoft, giving them access to AI developers’ talent, computing capacity, intellectual property, or business information.

In some cases, CSPs hire the top AI talent away from the AI developer and obtain exclusive licensing of the developer’s technology, “effectively swallowing the start-up and its main assets — without becoming the owner of the firm.” An agreement may also give the CSP a high level of control over, and stake in, the AI developer’s business decisions. In the most egregious case, individuals have held concurrent board positions with both the CSP and the AI developer, in a blatant violation of U.S. antitrust law. Partnership agreements can also lock AI developers in with particular CSPs because of the high contractual and technical cost of starting an agreement with a new CSP, limiting innovation in cases where there are better partnerships available.

“Partnerships between CSPs and AI developers, if left unchecked, may accelerate consolidation of the AI sector, ultimately driving up prices and choking off innovation,” wrote the senators.

In order to better understand the potential anticompetitive risks of these agreements, the senators requested the companies provide more information about their partnerships, including on the consolidation of computing resources, talent, and intellectual property, by April 21, 2025.

Senator Warren has long fought to crack down on corporate consolidation that threatens consumers and raises prices, including in the technology sector:

In February 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Omeed Assefi, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division, calling on the agency to closely scrutinize Disney’s proposed acquisition of FuboTV (Fubo).
In December 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD)’s procurement of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing tools prioritizes resiliency and competition. The bill offers meaningful regulation to limit Big Tech monopolies from elbowing out competitors in the AI and cloud computing markets.
In November 2024, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent two letters regarding the impact of private equity and large corporations in veterinary care, to JAB Holding Company (JAB) and to Mars Petcare (Mars), a subsidiary of Mars, Inc., respectively.
In October 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren led the reintroduction of the Stop Wall Street Looting Act, comprehensive legislation to fundamentally reform the private equity industry and level the playing field by forcing private investment firms to take responsibility for the outcomes of companies they take over, empowering workers and protecting investors.
In August 2024, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), joined by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), wrote to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), calling on the agencies to closely scrutinize the proposed joint venture between FOX, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Disney subsidiary ESPN that would create a new streaming service named Venu Sports (Venu).
In July 2024, Senators Warren, Klobuchar, Murphy, Sanders, Booker, and Blumenthal wrote a letter to the Department of Justice and Federal Communications Commission, urging them to scrutinize T-Mobile’s proposed acquisition of UScellular.
In July 2024, Senator Warren and Representatives Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) and John Garamendi (D-Calif.) urged the Department of Defense (DoD), FTC, and DOJ to review TransDigm Group Inc.’s acquisitions of two specialized aerospace contractors to prevent price gouging.
In June 2024, Senator Warren wrote to DOJ, FTC, and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), calling out high health care costs due to vertically integrated insurers, private equity companies, and pharmaceutical companies that are driving health care consolidation.
In June 2024, Senators Warren and Markey (D-Mass.) introduced the Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act of 2024 to root out corporate greed and private equity abuse in the health care system.
In May 2024, chairing a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Economic Policy, Senator Warren highlighted the impact of concentration in the food industry and its impact on prices, product, and consumer choice.
In May 2024, Senator Warren and Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Airport Gate Competition Act, which would increase competition in the airline industry and lower prices for consumers by increasing the number of common-use gates in airports.
In March 2024, Senator Warren and Representative Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Penn.) led a group of 14 lawmakers in urging the FTC to revive enforcement of the Robinson Patman Act, a critical tool to promote fair competition in the food industry.
In March 2024, Senators Warren and Klobuchar led 26 lawmakers in urging the leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to strike parts of the Commerce, Science, and Justice (CJS) appropriations bill that undercut DOJ’s ability to block anticompetitive mergers.
In February 2024, Senator Warren urged FTC to closely scrutinize Choice Hotels’ attempted hostile takeover of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which would further consolidate the hotel market and create the largest branded hotel chain in the United States.
In February 2024, Senator Warren delivered the keynote address at RemedyFest, where she called out Big Tech for their anti-competitive tactics that have led to market consolidation and record profits.
In February 2024, Senator Warren and 12 other lawmakers called on regulators to block the Capital One-Discover Merger.
In December 2023, Senator Warren led 6 senators in a letter to Acting Comptroller of the Currency Michael Hsu, calling on OCC to allow states to move forward with their efforts to protect consumers from harmful bank practices. The senators criticized the OCC for overstepping its preemption authority under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which the agency is abusing to block tough, state-level consumer protections.
In November 2023, Senators Warren and Blumenthal called out U.S. Anesthesia Partners’ (USAP) monopolistic business model and use of restrictive non-compete agreements that have reduced patients’ quality of care, increased prices, and suppressed workers’ wages.
In October 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) urged DOJ and FTC to carefully scrutinize UnitedHealth Group’s pending acquisition of Amedisys; and urged the agencies to scrutinize similar deals, reject behavioral or structural remedies, and oppose any health care acquisition that would threaten competition, increase prices, and reduce quality of care.
In September 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Becca Balint (D-Vt.), along with a bicameral group of lawmakers, submitted a public comment to the FTC and DOJ in support of the agencies’ proposed merger guidelines, endorsing the agencies’ reading of antitrust law, praising the guidelines as necessary to prevent harm to workers, consumers, and small businesses.
In August 2023, chairing a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Economic Policy, Senator Warren highlighted the need for regulators to implement the strongest version of bank merger review guidelines in order to ensure stability in the financial system.
In July 2023, Senators Warren and Lindsey Graham unveiled comprehensive legislation that would rein in Big Tech by establishing a new commission to regulate online platforms. The commission would have concurrent jurisdiction with FTC and DOJ, and would be responsible for overseeing and enforcing the new statutory provisions in the bill and implementing rules to promote competition, protect privacy, protect consumers, and strengthen our national security.
In June 2023, Senator Warren sent a letter to Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter, Federal Deposit Investment Corporation (FDIC) Chairman Gruenberg, Acting Comptroller of the Currency Hsu, Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr, and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, urging regulators to promote greater competition in the banking sector by toughening their stances on bank mergers and strengthening bank merger review guidelines.
In May 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, Senator Warren questioned Acting Comptroller Hsu on his decision to approve JPMorgan Chase’s purchase of First Republic Bank after its collapse. This merger allowed a large, poorly supervised bank to be swallowed by America’s largest bank, making it $200 billion larger than it was before.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Cary Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years for Access Device Fraud and Identity Theft

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

NEW BERN, N.C. – A Cary man was sentenced today to 61 months in prison for access device fraud and aggravated identity theft. Ibrahim Abiodun Aderounmu, 27, pled guilty to the charges on November 4, 2024. The court also ordered Aderounmu to pay $536,782 in restitution to the victims.

According to court documents and other information presented in court, between approximately 2020 and 2022, Aderounmu engaged in multiple access device fraud schemes involving the theft and misuse of personal identifying information (PII) of victims across the United States. The schemes resulted in attempted losses of more than $650,000.

As part of one scheme, victim PII was used to submit hundreds of applications for Chase Bank business credit card accounts. If the application was successful, the physical credit card was mailed to Aderounmu’s apartment in Cary. Aderounmu then used the credit cards to make online and in-store purchases.

The investigation into the Chase Bank scheme resulted in a search warrant of Aderounmu’s apartment. During the search, officers recovered, among other things, more than 400 access devices, including debit cards for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. According to the investigation, victim PII was fraudulently used to apply for and initiate UI benefits from multiple state workforce agencies, including in North Carolina, California, Nevada, and Arizona. If approved, the benefits were loaded onto debit cards and mailed to addresses under the control of Aderounmu and others. Aderounmu was captured on surveillance footage withdrawing the UI benefits from the debit cards at ATMs in Raleigh, Cary, and other locations in the Eastern District of North Carolina.

The seized access devices also included multiple USAA debit cards in the names of victims. The investigation found that victim PII was used to open USAA accounts with addresses linked to Aderounmu. The fraudulent accounts, in turn, were funded with fraudulent check deposits, the proceeds of which were withdrawn from ATMs in Raleigh, Cary, and elsewhere.

Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam F. Hulbig prosecuted the case for the government.

Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-222-FL.

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MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI United Nations: Gaza: Guterres calls on Israel to ensure life-saving aid reaches civilians

Source: United Nations 2

8 April 2025 Humanitarian Aid

With no aid allowed into Gaza for more than a month, the UN Secretary-General appealed on Tuesday for guaranteed humanitarian access to the enclave.

Speaking to journalists at UN Headquarters, António Guterres also repeated his call for a renewed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and the release of all hostages still being held inside the shattered enclave.

No food, fuel, medicine and commercial items have entered Gaza since 2 March following the Israeli blockade, and supplies are piling up at crossing points.

Meanwhile, the ceasefire announced in January following 15 months of war has collapsed, amid airstrikes, renewed ground operations and rocket launches into Israel by Palestinian militants.

‘An endless death loop’

“As aid has dried up, the floodgates of horror have re-opened,” Mr. Guterres said.

“Gaza is a killing field – and civilians are in an endless death loop.”

He noted that “certain truths are clear since the atrocious October 7 attacks by Hamas,” chiefly that ceasefires work.

The truce allowed for the release of hostages, as well as the distribution of lifesaving aid, and proved that the humanitarian community can deliver.

Shattered hope

He recalled that “for weeks, guns fell silent, obstacles were removed, looting ended – and we were able to deliver lifesaving supplies to virtually every part of the Gaza Strip,” which ended with the “shattering” of the deal.

“Hope sank for Palestinian families in Gaza and families of hostages in Israel – as I was reminded when I met again with hostage families yesterday,” he added.

For this reason, the Secretary-General has consistently been pushing for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and full humanitarian access to the territory.

“In times like this, we must be crystal clear,” he said, noting that with crossing points shut and aid blockaded, there is no effective security and the ability to deliver assistance has been strangled.

He also cited a joint statement by UN humanitarian chiefs, issued on Monday, which refuted assertions that there is enough food in Gaza to feed everyone there. 

International obligations

“We must also be clear about the obligations,” Mr. Guterres continued, emphasizing the “unequivocal obligations” of Israel, as the occupying power, in line with international law.

He pointed to the Fourth Geneva Convention, which outlines the duty to ensure food and medical supplies for the population, as well as ensuring and maintaining medical and hospital establishments and services, public health and hygiene.

Additionally, medical personnel shall be allowed to carry out their duties.

“And Article 59, paragraph 1, of the Fourth Geneva Convention provides that ‘if the whole or part of the population of an occupied territory is inadequately supplied, the Occupying Power shall agree to relief schemes on behalf of the said population, and shall facilitate them by all means at its disposal,’” he quoted.

International humanitarian law also includes the obligation to respect humanitarian relief personnel, he added, paying tribute to the “humanitarian heroes” under fire in Gaza.

Soundcloud

Against new ‘authorization mechanisms’

While UN agencies and partners stand ready and determined to deliver, “the Israeli authorities newly proposed ‘authorization mechanisms’ for aid delivery risk further controlling and callously limiting aid down to the last calorie and grain of flour,” the Secretary-General said.

“Let me be clear: We will not participate in any arrangement that does not fully respect the humanitarian principles: humanity, impartiality, independence and neutrality.”

Mr. Guterres said unimpeded humanitarian access must be guaranteed, and humanitarian personnel must be given protection, in line with international law.

He stressed that “the inviolability of United Nations premises and assets must be respected,” and again called for an independent investigation into the killing of humanitarians, including UN personnel.

Dead end ahead

The Secretary-General concluded the briefing by underlining the need to stick to core principles. He urged UN Member States to adhere to their obligations, adding that there must be justice and accountability when they do not.

“The world may be running out of words to describe the situation in Gaza, but we will never run away from the truth,” he said.

He warned that “the current path is a dead end – totally intolerable in the eyes of international law and history,” while the risk of the occupied West Bank transforming into another Gaza makes the situation even worse.

“It is time to end the dehumanization, protect civilians, release the hostages, ensure lifesaving aid, and renew the ceasefire,” he said.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland shines a light on its young achievers

Source: City of Sunderland

Sunderland’s most inspiring, driven and creative young people have been celebrated at an awards ceremony in the city.

Organised by Together for Children, the Sunderland Young Achievers’ Awards have been celebrating the incredible talents and achievements of young people and the positive difference they make to their city for more than thirty years.

This has seen thousands of remarkable young people recognised for their exceptional dedication, resilience, empathy, and strong commitment to their communities.

15-year-old Leon O’Connor Ahmadi who has overcome multiple challenges to become a school leader and community champion was named overall winner of this year’s Sunderland Young Achievers Awards. He also won the Achievement in Learning award.

The judges described Leon, who has learning difficulties, as ‘a remarkable Year 11 student whose perseverance and resilience have defined his educational and personal journey’ and someone who gives ‘110 per cent in everything.’

Leon has been cared for since he left primary school but has never let any of his challenges define him. Attending extra classes and working diligently at home have put him on track to achieve good grades in his GCSEs. He is also a leader in his school community, serving as a sports leader and house captain, and actively working towards his Duke of Edinburgh Award.

In the community, Leon volunteers at various projects and has earned the Champion of the Community Award. His determination has also seen him achieve a brown belt in karate.

Other winners include:

Quinn Lux Lownie – winner of the Young Health and Wellbeing Champion – 12-year-old Quinn has been actively campaigning to educate women about cervical cancer and encourage them to prioritise their health since the age of six. She has raised nearly £110,000 for various charities, including as an ambassador for Amber’s Legacy which works to promote awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of smear tests.
Box Youth Project – winner of the Bringing Communities Together Award – a group of 24 young volunteers who support afterschool activities like music, arts and crafts, sports, games, and E-Sports for 38 weeks a year. Their achievements included securing funding from Sunderland City Council to deliver Christmas Treat Boxes to elderly residents, showcasing intergenerational work in Doxford.
Ellie Storey – winner of the Young Carer Award – 17-year-old Ellie has been a caregiver since the age of two, having supported her mother who has Crohn’s disease, through numerous hospital admissions and treatments, When Ellie was just nine, her brother Shaine was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and she became his nurse, attending every appointment and MRI scan.

Tammy Banks, Chair of the Together for Children Board, said: “These awards shine a light on the incredible accomplishments, talents, and positive contributions of young people in our community, reminding us all of the huge difference they are making every day.

“Their stories are emotional, compassionate, full of success and truly uplifting. They remind us of the kindness, resilience, and dedication that define our young people. Each nominee is making a real difference, and it’s a huge honour to be able to recognise and celebrate their outstanding contributions.”

Councillor Michael Butler, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Child Poverty and Skills at Sunderland City Council said: “The Sunderland Young Achievers Awards provide a platform to recognise exceptional individuals those who have triumphed over adversity, shown extraordinary bravery, demonstrated relentless hard work, or devoted themselves to helping others. They embody the very best of Sunderland.

“More than that, these awards highlight the limitless potential of young achievers the opportunity to achieve big things in life, smash glass ceilings, and become the next generation of leaders. Their determination and ambition will shape the future, inspiring others to dream bigger and reach higher.”

City landmarks Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire bridge, Hylton Castle, Fulwell Mill and Seaburn lighthouse were also lit gold and black on the night of the awards to celebrate this year’s young achievers.

The awards are sponsored by partners and organisations from across Sunderland who make the event possible – Hopespring, Gentoo, Sunderland BID, Everyone Active, Sunderland City Council’s Public Health team and Low Carbon team, Sunderland College and the Northern Academy of Music Education.

For more details on the awards, visit: Sunderland Young Achievers’ Awards – Together for Children

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s Press Encounter on Gaza [scroll down for Arabic]

Source: United Nations secretary general

More than an entire month has passed without a drop of aid into Gaza.

No food. No fuel. No medicine. No commercial supplies.

As aid has dried up, the floodgates of horror have re-opened.

Gaza is a killing field – and civilians are in an endless death loop.

Certain truths are clear since the atrocious October 7 terror attacks by Hamas.

Above all, we know ceasefires work.

The ceasefire allowed for the release of hostages.

The ceasefire ensured the distribution of lifesaving aid.

The ceasefire proved that the humanitarian community can deliver.

For weeks — guns fell silent, obstacles were removed, looting ended – and we were able to deliver lifesaving supplies to virtually every part of the Gaza Strip.

That all ended with the shattering of the ceasefire.

Hope sank for Palestinian families in Gaza and families of hostages in Israel – and I was reminded yesterday when I met again with hostage families.

That is why I have consistently been pushing for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and full humanitarian access.

In times like this, we must be crystal clear …. clear about the situation.

With crossing points into Gaza shut and aid blockaded, security is in shambles and our capacity to deliver has been strangled.

And as the heads of UN humanitarian organizations declared in a joint statement yesterday: “assertions that there is now enough food to feed all Palestinians in Gaza are far from the reality on the ground, and commodities are running extremely low”.

We must also be clear about the obligations.

As the occupying power, Israel has unequivocal obligations under international law – including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

Article 55, paragraph 1, of the Fourth Geneva Convention provides that “the Occupying Power has the duty of ensuring food and medical supplies of the population”.

Article 56, paragraph 1, of the Fourth Geneva Convention provides that “the Occupying Power has the duty of ensuring and maintaining…the medical and hospital establishments and services, public health and hygiene in the occupied territory”.

It further states that medical personnel of all categories shall be allowed to carry out their duties.

And Article 59, paragraph 1, of the Fourth Geneva Convention provides that “if the whole or part of the population of an occupied territory is inadequately supplied, the Occupying Power shall agree to relief schemes on behalf of the said population, and shall facilitate them by all means at its disposal”.

None of that is happening today.

No humanitarian supplies can enter Gaza.

Meanwhile, at the crossing points, food, medicine and shelter supplies are piling up, and vital equipment is stuck.

International Humanitarian Law also includes the obligation to respect humanitarian relief personnel.

I want to say a special word about those humanitarian heroes in Gaza. They are under fire and yet doing all they can to follow the path they chose – to help people.

UN agencies and our partners are ready and determined to deliver.

But the Israeli authorities newly proposed “authorization mechanisms” for aid delivery risk further controlling and callously limiting aid down to the last calorie and grain of flour.

Let me be clear: We will not participate in any arrangement that does not fully respect the humanitarian principles: humanity, impartiality, independence and neutrality.

Unimpeded humanitarian access must be guaranteed.

And humanitarian personnel must be given the protection that they are accorded under international law.

The inviolability of United Nations premises and assets must be respected.

I call once again for an independent investigation into the killing of humanitarians – including UN personnel.

We must stick to our core principles. Member States of the United Nations must adhere to their obligations under international law. And there must be justice and accountability when they do not.

The world may be running out of words to describe the situation in Gaza, but we will never run away from the truth.

The current path is a dead end – totally intolerable in the eyes of international law and history.

And the risk of the occupied West Bank transforming into another Gaza makes it even worse.

It is time to end the dehumanization, protect civilians, release the hostages, ensure lifesaving aid, and renew the ceasefire.

Thank you.

            لقد مر أكثر من شهر كامل ولم تدخل إلى غزة قطرة واحدة من المساعدات.

لا طعام، ولا وقود، ولا دواء، ولا إمدادات تجارية.

            وبإغلاق باب المساعدات، أعيد فتح أبواب الفواجع.

            غزة اليوم ساحة قتل – والمدنيون في دوامة موت لا تنتهي.

            وبعض الحقائق واضحة منذ الهجمات الإرهابية الفظيعة التي نفذتها حماس في 7 تشرين الأول/أكتوبر.

            أولا وقبل كل شيء، نحن نعلم أن وقف إطلاق النار ناجع.

            فوقف إطلاق النار سمح بإطلاق سراح الرهائن.

            ووقف إطلاق النار ضمن توزيع المساعدات المنقذة للحياة.

            ووقف إطلاق النار أثبت أن مجتمع العمل الإنساني قادر على الوفاء بالتزاماته.

            فعلى مدار أسابيع – سكتت أصوات البنادق، ورُفعت الحواجز، وانتهت أعمال النهب – وتمكّنا من إيصال الإمدادات المنقذة للحياة إلى كل جزء من قطاع غزة تقريبا.

            ثم ما أن انهار وقف إطلاق النار حتى انتهى كل ذلك.

            وتبدد ما كان من أمل لدى العائلات الفلسطينية في غزة وعائلات الرهائن في إسرائيل – وقد تأكد ذاك لي بالشكل الملموس أمس عندما التقيت مرة أخرى بأسَر رهائن.

            هذا هو السبب الذي ظل يدفعني إلى الإلحاح على الإفراج الفوري وغير المشروط عن جميع الرهائن، وإلى وقف دائم لإطلاق النار، وإيصال المساعدات الإنسانية بشكل كامل.

            في أوقات مثل هذه، يجب أن نتحلى بالصراحة التامة …. صراحة بشأن الوضع الراهن.

            ففي ظل إغلاق نقاط العبور إلى غزة ومنع مرور المساعدات، حلت الكارثة مكان الأمن ولم تعد لنا قدرة على إيصال المساعدات.

            وكما أعلن رؤساء المنظمات الإنسانية التابعة للأمم المتحدة في بيان مشترك يوم أمس: ”إن التصريحات التي تقول إن هناك الآن ما يكفي من الغذاء لإطعام جميع الفلسطينيين في غزة بعيدة كل البعد عن الواقع على الأرض، وإن الكمية المتاحة من السلع الأساسية تنخفض بحدة“.

            ويجب أن نكون واضحين أيضا بشأن الالتزامات.

            فإسرائيل، بوصفها السلطة القائمة بالاحتلال، تقع عليها التزامات لا لبس فيها بموجب القانون الدولي – بما في ذلك القانون الدولي الإنساني والقانون الدولي لحقوق الإنسان.

            حيث إن الفقرة 1 من المادة 55 من اتفاقية جنيف الرابعة تنص على أنه ”من واجب دولة الاحتلال ضمان حصول السكان على المؤن الغذائية والإمدادات الطبية“.

            وتنص الفقرة 1 من المادة 56 من اتفاقية جنيف الرابعة على أنه ”من واجب دولة الاحتلال أن تعمل […] على صیانة المنشآت والخدمات الطبیة والمستشفیات وكذلك الصحة العامة والشروط الصحیة في الأراضي المحتلة“.

            وتنص كذلك على أن يُسمح لأفراد الخدمات الطبية بكل فئاتهم بأداء مهامهم.

            وتنص الفقرة 1 من المادة 59 من اتفاقية جنيف الرابعة على أنه ”إذا كان كل سكان الأراضي المحتلة أو قسم منهم تنقصهم المؤن الكافية، وجب على دولة الاحتلال أن تسمح بعمليات الإغاثة لمصلحة هؤلاء السكان وتوفر لها التسهيلات بقدر ما تسمح به وسائلها“.

            لا شيء من ذلك يحدث اليوم.

            فليس ثمة إمكانية لإدخال أي إمدادات إنسانية إلى غزة.

            وفي الوقت نفسه، تتراكم عند نقاط العبور المواد الغذائية والأدوية ومستلزمات الإيواء، وتظل المعدات الحيوية عالقة هناك.

            وينص القانون الدولي الإنساني أيضا على الالتزام باحترام موظفي الإغاثة الإنسانية.

            وأود هنا أن أقول كلمة خاصة في حق هؤلاء الأبطال الذين يعملون في مجال الإغاثة الإنسانية في غزة. فهُم يعملون تحت نيران البنادق ومع ذلك يبذلون كل ما في وسعهم ليواصلوا الطريق الذي اختاروه – طريق إغاثة الناس.

            إن وكالات الأمم المتحدة وشركاءَنا مستعدون وعازمون على الوفاء بالتزاماتنا.

            ولكن السلطات الإسرائيلية خرجت في الآونة الأخيرة بـ ”آليات ترخيص“ لإيصال المساعدات من شأنها أن تشدد التحكم في المساعدات وتكبلها بقسوة حتى آخر سعرة حرارية وآخر ذرة دقيق.

            ولْأكن واضحا هنا: نحن لن نشارك في أي ترتيبات لا تحترم المبادئ الإنسانية احتراماً كاملاً: أي مبادئ الإنسانية والنزاهة والاستقلالية والحياد.
            يجب إفساح المجال لإيصال المساعدات الإنسانية دون عوائق.

            ويجب أن يُمنح العاملون في تقديم المساعدة الإنسانية الحمايةَ المكفولة لهم بموجب القانون الدولي.
            ويجب أن تُحتَرم حرمةُ مباني الأمم المتحدة وأصولِها.

            وأدعو هنا مرة أخرى إلى إجراء تحقيق مستقل في مقتل العاملين في تقديم المساعدة الإنسانية – بمن فيهم موظفو الأمم المتحدة.

            ويجب أن نتمسك بمبادئنا الأساسية. فالدول الأعضاء في الأمم المتحدة يجب عليها أن تتقيد بالالتزامات التي يلقيها القانون الدولي على عاتقها. ويجب أن تأخذ العدالةُ والمحاسبةُ مجراها عندما لا تتقيّد بتلك الالتزامات.

            قد يعجز العالم عن إيجاد كلمات يصف بها ما يجري في غزة، ولكن أبدا لن نهرب من وجه الحقيقة.

            فالوضع الحالي إنما يسير في طريق مسدود – في حالة لا يمكن البتة تقبلها في حكم القانون الدولي وسجل التاريخ.

            ولن يزداد الأمر إلا سوءا في ظل احتمال تحوُّل الضفة الغربية المحتلة إلى غزة أخرى.

            لقد حان الوقت لإنهاء تجريد المدنيين من إنسانيتهم ولحماية المدنيين وإطلاق سراح الرهائن وضمان تقديم المساعدات المنقذة للحياة وتجديد وقف إطلاق النار.

            شكراً لكم.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI: Societe Generale announces results of the offer to purchase certain of its debt securities

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SOCIETE GENERALE ANNOUNCES RESULTS OF THE OFFER TO PURCHASE CERTAIN OF ITS DEBT SECURITIES

Press release

Paris, April 8, 2025

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY PERSON LOCATED OR RESIDENT IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE OR TO WHOM IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT.

Further to the announcement on April 1, 2025 of the launch of an offer to purchase for cash (the “Offer”) any and all of its outstanding Undated Deeply Subordinated Resettable Interest Rate Notes referred to below (the “Notes”), Societe Generale today announces the results of the Offer.

The expiration time for the Offer was 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on April 7, 2025.

According to information provided by the Tender and Information Agent for the Offer, $710,342,000 aggregate principal amount of the Notes were validly tendered at or prior to the expiration time and not withdrawn.

The following table sets forth the aggregate principal amount of Notes validly tendered and not withdrawn in the Offer at or prior to the expiration time:

CUSIP No.	ISIN	Title of Security	Tender Offer Consideration	Aggregate Principal Amount Tendered	Aggregate principal amount accepted	Aggregate principal amount reflected in Notices of Guaranteed Delivery
83368J FA3 F43628 B41	US83368JFA34 USF43628B413	Undated Deeply Subordinated Resettable Interest Rate Notes	$1,007.00⁽¹⁾	$710,342,000	$710,342,000	$0

(1) The amount to be paid for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn and accepted for purchase, excluding accrued and unpaid interest.

In total, $710,342,000 aggregate principal amount of Notes have been accepted for purchase (no Notes were delivered using the guaranteed delivery procedures).

Societe Generale expects to pay on the settlement date the Tender Offer Consideration plus accrued and unpaid interest from the last interest payment date up to, but not including, the settlement date, for Notes validly tendered prior to the expiration time and accepted purchase pursuant to the Offer. The settlement date is expected to be on or about April 10, 2025.

Societe Generale intends to cancel the repurchased Notes. Notes that have not been validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will remain outstanding. Following the settlement date, Notes in a principal amount of $539,658,000 will remain outstanding.

Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this announcement have the meaning given to them in the offer to purchase dated April 1, 2025 (the “Offer to Purchase”) and the related notice of guaranteed delivery (the “Notice of Guaranteed Delivery” and, together with the Offer to Purchase, the “Offer Documents”).

Questions regarding the Offer may be directed to the Dealer Managers and the Tender and Information Agent at the contact details set forth below.

D.F. King Ltd.
Email: SGCIB@dfkingltd.com
Offer Website: https://clients.dfkingltd.com/sgcib

In New York

48 Wall Street, 22nd Floor
New York, New York 10005
United States of America

Banks and Brokers, Call Collect: (212) 269 5550

All others, Call Toll-Free: (800) 848-2998

In London

51 Lime Street
London EC3M 7DQ
United Kingdom

Tel: +44 20 7920 9700

Societe Generale

17, cours Valmy

BP 18236

92987 Paris la Défense Cedex

France

Tel: +33 (0)1 42 13 32 40

Email: liability.management@sgcib.com

SG Americas Securities, LLC

245 Park Avenue

New York, New York 10167

United States

Tel: + 1 (212) 278-7631

Toll-Free: 1 (855) 881 2108

Press contacts:
Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com
Fanny Rouby_+33 1 57 29 11 12_ fanny.rouby@socgen.com

Societe Generale

Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with around 119,000 employees serving more than 26 million clients in 62 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

In case of doubt regarding the authenticity of this press release, please go to the end of the Group News page on societegenerale.com website where official Press Releases sent by Societe Generale can be certified using blockchain technology. A link will allow you to check the document’s legitimacy directly on the web page.

For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

DISCLAIMER

This announcement must be read in conjunction with the Offer to Purchase. This announcement and the Offer to Purchase contain important information which should be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Offer. If any qualifying holder is in any doubt as to the contents of this announcement, the Offer to Purchase or the action it should take, it is recommended to seek its own financial, legal, regulatory and tax advice, including in respect of any tax consequences, immediately from its broker, bank manager, solicitor, accountant or other independent financial, tax or legal adviser.

Attachment

Societe-Generale_Results-offer-purchase-certain-debt-securities

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Cabinet Office Audit and Risk Committee

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Update on Cabinet Office Audit and Risk Committee

A new chair has been appointed to the Cabinet Office Audit and Risk Committee

Maura Sullivan has been appointed as Chair of the Cabinet Office Audit and Risk Committee for a term of three years.

The Cabinet Office Audit and Risk Committee offers an independent perspective on the department’s financial, risk, and control arrangements. It also reviews and recommends the approval of accounts for the Cabinet Office, Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists, Civil Superannuation, and the Royal Mail Statutory Pension Scheme.

The Committee supports the Cabinet Office Board, which provides strategic and operational leadership for the department. It comprises of Cabinet Office ministers, senior executives, and non-executives from outside government.

Maura is a finance professional with an executive career spanning Board level CFO roles in Banking, Asset Management and Pensions.

She has worked in complex international organisations, managed large teams and led and supported large transformation programmes.

Her non executive portfolio currently includes Chair of Audit and Compliance Committee for Marsden Building Society and Chair of Audit & Risk for Gov Facilities Management Services Limited (GovFSL), an arms length body of the MoJ.

Published 8 April 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI: Renasant Announces 2025 First Quarter Webcast and Conference Call Information

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TUPELO, Miss., April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Renasant Corporation (NYSE: RNST) (the “Company”) will announce 2025 first quarter results following the NYSE’s closing on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The Company will hold executive management’s quarterly webcast and conference call with analysts on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time (9:00 AM Central Time).

The webcast is accessible through Renasant’s investor relations website at www.renasant.com or https://event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=3wLevIin. To access the conference via telephone, dial 1-877-513-1143 in the United States and request the Renasant Corporation 2025 First Quarter Earnings Webcast and Conference Call. International participants should dial 1-412-902-4145 to access the conference call.

The webcast will be archived on www.renasant.com and will remain accessible for one year. A replay can be accessed via telephone by dialing 1-877-344-7529 in the United States and entering conference number 6525571 or by dialing 1-412-317-0088 internationally and entering the same conference number. Telephone replay access is available until May 7, 2025.

ABOUT RENASANT CORPORATION:

Renasant Corporation is the parent of Renasant Bank, a 121-year-old financial services institution. Renasant has assets of approximately $26.0 billion and operates more than 280 banking, lending, mortgage, and wealth management offices throughout the Southeast as well as factoring and asset-based lending on a nationwide basis.

NOTE TO INVESTORS:

This news release may contain, or incorporate by reference, statements which may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements usually include words such as “expects,” “projects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “strategy,” “plan,” “potential,” “possible” and other similar expressions.

Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees for future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include significant fluctuations in interest rates, inflation, economic recession, significant changes in the federal and state legal and regulatory environment, significant underperformance in our portfolio of outstanding loans, and competition in our markets. Management believes that the assumptions underlying the Company’s forward-looking statements are reasonable, but any of the assumptions could prove to be inaccurate. Investors are urged to carefully consider the risks described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) from time to time, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which are available at www.renasant.com and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time.

Contacts		For Media: John S. Oxford Senior Vice President Chief Marketing Officer (662) 680-1219 joxford@renasant.com		For Financials: James C. Mabry IV Executive Vice President Chief Financial Officer (662) 680-1281 jim.mabry@renasant.com

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI: WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 8.4.2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

WithSecure Corporation, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 8 April 2025 at 6.30 PM (EET)


WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 8.4.2025

In the Helsinki Stock Exchange

Trade date	8.4.2025
Bourse trade	Buy
Share	WITH
Amount	12 849	Shares
Average price/ share	0,8700	EUR
Total cost	11 178,63	EUR


WithSecure Corporation now holds a total of 386 890 shares
including the shares repurchased on 8.4.2025

The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation
No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.


On behalf of Withsecure Corporation

Nordea Bank Oyj

Janne Sarvikivi	Sami Huttunen


Contact information:
Laura Viita
Vice President Controlling, Investor relations and Sustainability
WithSecure Corporation
Tel. +358 50 4871044
Investor-relations@withsecure.com

Attachment

WithSecure 8.4.2025

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Federal Reserve Board announces termination of enforcement action with former employee of The Marathon Bank

Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

.

April 08, 2025
Federal Reserve Board announces termination of enforcement action with former employee of The Marathon Bank
For release at 11:00 a.m. EDT

The Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday announced the termination of the enforcement action listed below:
Lori H. Staples, former employee of The Marathon Bank, Winchester, VirginiaCease and Desist Order dated May 28, 2003 (PDF)Terminated April 4, 2025
Additional enforcement actions can be searched for here.
For media inquiries, please email [email protected] or call 202-452-2955.

Last Update: April 08, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Banking: The Next Phase of Gaming: Samsung Next-Gen Odyssey Gaming Monitors Now Available to Pre-Order

Source: Samsung

Samsung Electronics America today announced that its 2025 Odyssey lineup – including the Odyssey 3D, Odyssey OLED G8 and Odyssey G9 – are now available for pre-order on Samsung.com and at select retailers nationwide. First unveiled during the reserve period, consumers can now get up to a $300 Samsung credit when you purchase one of the new monitors, but only for a limited time1.
“With pre-orders now available for our 2025 Odyssey monitors, we’re inviting gamers to be among the first to experience the next level of immersion, performance, and design,” said David Phelps, Head of Display, Samsung Electronics America. “This pre-order is more than early access, it’s a front-row seat to the future of gaming. You can pre-order your Odyssey monitor at Samsung.com starting today. Availability won’t last long, so secure your monitor today and be the first to game on the next generation of monitors.”

For 3 years in a row, Samsung has been the #1 monitor brand2 and #1 gaming monitor brand3 in the U.S., as well as the #1 OLED monitor brand4 and #1 OLED gaming monitor brand5 in the U.S. for the past year, and that’s due to the versatile offerings and innovations delivered every year to consumers.
Availability
The new Odyssey 3D, Odyssey OLED G8, and Odyssey G9 are available to pre-order starting today, but only for a limited time. Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to experience the next evolution of gaming displays. Check out our reserve release for more details on each monitor, and for more information on pre-order, please visit samsung.com/Monitor-Pre-Order.

1 Terms & Conditions: *10 AM EST 4/8 –9:59 AM EST 4/22, while supplies last, purchase a select monitors (“Eligible Monitors”) at Samsung.com (“Qualifying Purchase”) and receive up to a $300 Samsung Credit per Eligible Monitor (“Gift”). Gift is an e-Certificate code that will be sent via email within 35 days after Qualifying Purchase, expires on 5/26/2025 and must be used at checkout only on Samsung.com or in the Shop Samsung app. Gift is a one-time use; when first used, any value not used is lost. Gift is non-transferable. If you return or cancel your purchase, Gift is forfeited. Limit: One Gift per Qualifying Purchase up to ten (10) Gifts per consumer. Eligible SKUs: LS27FG900XNXZA, LS27FG810SNXZA, LS49FG910ENXZA
2 Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, US, Monitors, Dollar & Unit Sales, January 2022 – December 2024
3 Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, US, Monitors, Gaming Designed, Dollar Sales, January 2022 – December 2024
4 Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, US, Monitors, OLED, Dollar & Unit Sales, January – December 2024
5 Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, US, Monitors, Gaming Designed, OLED, Dollar & Unit Sales, January – December 2024

MIL OSI Global Banks –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI: Oma Savings Bank Plc: Resolutions of the organizing meeting of the Board of Directors

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 8 APRIL 2025 AT 5:30 P.M. EET, OTHER INFORMATION DISCLOSED ACCORDING TO THE RULES OF THE EXCHANGE

Oma Savings Bank Plc: Resolutions of the organizing meeting of the Board of Directors

At the Annual General Meeting of Oma Savings Bank Plc on 8 April 2025, Juhana Brotherus, Irma Gillberg-Hjelt, Aki Jaskari, Jaakko Ossa, Carl Pettersson, Kati Riikonen and Juha Volotinen were re-elected as members of the Board of Directors.

On 8 April 2025, the organizing meeting of the Board elected Jaakko Ossa to continue as Chairman of the Board and Carl Petterson as Vice Chair.

The Board of Directors appointed three permanent committes: Risk Committee, Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee.

The members of the Risk Committee are Irma Gillberg-Hjelt (Chair), Aki Jaskari and Juha Volotinen.
The members of the Audit Committee are Carl Pettersson (Chair), Kati Riikonen and Irma Gillberg-Hjelt.
The members of the Remuneration Committee are Juhana Brotherus (Chair), Jaakko Ossa and Aki Jaskari.

Oma Savings Bank Plc

Additional information:
Karri Alameri, CEO, tel. +358 45 656 5250, karri.alameri@omasp.fi
Sarianna Liiri, CFO, tel. +358 40 835 6712, sarianna.liiri@omasp.fi

DISTRIBUTION:
Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
Major media
www.omasp.fi

OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 500 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 48 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Acting Chairman Travis Hill – View from the FDIC: Update on Key Policy Issues

Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

Introduction

On my first day as Acting Chairman two and a half months ago, I outlined a list of issues on which the FDIC would focus. Today, I will provide an update on a few of those policy issues and describe the agency’s plans for future work in these areas.

De Novo Bank Formation

For many years, commentators have been discussing consolidation across the banking industry, as the total number of bank charters has declined from around 8,500 at the start of 2008 to approximately 4,500 today. While much of the focus has been on the role of bank mergers, statistically, the decline in banks since the start of the Great Financial Crisis is less a product of increased merger activity and much more a product of the steep decline in new bank formation.

Since 1980, the intercompany merger rate has been fairly consistent, generally moving within a range of 1% to 4% per year, depending on the year. The overall average rate since 1980 is approximately 2.5% per year, while the average rate per year since 2018 is 2.7%. If we count all charter closings (which also includes failures and intracompany mergers), the average since 1980 is 4.2% per year, while the average since 2018 is 3.4%. In other words, the decline in banks has been slowing in recent years. And of course, in absolute terms the annual number of mergers and charter closings has declined dramatically.

Meanwhile, the de novo rate has fallen off a cliff. From 1995 to 2007, the lowest number of new banks established in a year was 93. Going back a little further, in 1984, 412 new banks formed. Meanwhile, since the start of 2010, the total number of new banks formed over 15 years is 86, an average of less than 6 per year. Forty-four of those 86 opened in the four years between 2019 and 2022, a modest but meaningful increase largely attributable to reforms to the process and mindset put in place by Chairman McWilliams.

While I do not expect we will get anywhere close to the 100-plus new banks per year of the pre-2008 era, in order to preserve the long-term viability of the community bank model, we need to find ways to encourage more new bank formation, and we are actively considering several ideas to achieve this objective. One idea we are considering is identifying scenarios in which certain types of applicants may be subject to adjusted standards, including with respect to up-front and ongoing capital expectations. One such type of application might include proposals to open traditional, noncomplex community banks in parts of the country that lack local banks. Currently, approximately 68 million Americans live in counties that do not have a community bank headquarters. It might be the case that the benefit a new community bank provides to the “convenience and needs of the community to be served” in regions that lack a community bank presence justifies a more flexible approach to the other statutory factors the FDIC is required to consider.

We are also reevaluating how we process deposit insurance applications from organizers proposing banks with new or innovative business models. I recognize there are benefits to bringing some of these firms into the bank-regulated sphere. For example, a fintech with a large number of deposit accounts may present less risk to the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) if it becomes a regulated bank, rather than placing deposits at multiple banks through complex partnership arrangements. While applicants will still need to meet the full suite of regulatory obligations of being a bank, we will, in collaboration with the chartering authorities, approach these types of applications with an open mind.

Among the types of deposit insurance applications the FDIC processes are applications from industrial loan companies (ILCs). At an FDIC Board meeting last summer, I expressed my view that the FDIC should issue a request for information (RFI) or advance notice of proposed rulemaking to ask a comprehensive set of questions addressing issues related to ILC applications. I continue to believe this would be useful, and as a result the FDIC is now actively working on issuing such an RFI. I recognize that a wide range of stakeholders across the financial services industry have expressed strong opinions on this issue over the years, and I encourage interested parties to provide input once the RFI is released.

Overall, deposit insurance remains a special government privilege, and we will maintain rigorous standards for approval in line with our statutory requirements. But we will do so with an eye towards reestablishing a meaningful pipeline of new entrants into the banking sector.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: African Development Bank Group President Appoints The United Kingdom Parliamentarian Andrew Mitchell as Senior Advisor on a Pro Bono Basis

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

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, April 8, 2025/APO Group/ —

The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has appointed the Right Honourable Andrew Mitchell as his Senior Advisor for resource mobilization and policy issues on a pro bono basis.

Rt. Hon. Mitchell, whose appointment is effective 7 April 2025, will provide strategic advice on emerging global and regional development issues and high-level political stakeholder engagement.

Returning to a previously held role where he provided pro bono advice to the Bank, Rt. Hon. Mitchell is passionate about Africa’s development and has extensive knowledge and experience in managing the complexities of global resource mobilization.

Commenting on his appointment, Rt. Hon. Mitchell said, “It is a great pleasure to return to provide pro bono support to the African Development Bank Group’s brilliant team in this advisory role. Under Dr. Adesina’s leadership as President, the Bank has gone from strength to strength, delivering real change and development for people across Africa.”

The President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Adesina, said, “The Rt. Hon. Andrew Mitchell, former Minister of State for Development and Africa of the United Kingdom, has been a great supporter of Africa and the African Development Bank’s work. He will advise and support me on a pro bono basis in our efforts to navigate the complex global dynamics of mobilizing more resources for Africa globally”.

MIL OSI Africa –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI: Resolutions of Oma Savings Bank Plc’s Annual General Meeting

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 8 APRIL 2025 AT 5:10 P.M. EET, DECISIONS OF GENERAL MEETING

Resolutions of Oma Savings Bank Plc’s Annual General Meeting

Oma Savings Bank Plc’s Annual General Meeting (the AGM) was held today on 8 April 2025. The AGM confirmed the Company’s Financial Statements and Consolidated Financial Statements for the 2024 financial year, decided to support the Company’s Remuneration Policy for governing bodies and approved the Remuneration Report for governing bodies through an advisory resolution. The AGM granted discharge from liability to the members of the Company’s Board of Directors and the interim CEO Sarianna Liiri, who served as CEO since 19 June 2024. However, the AGM did not grant discharge from liability to the Company’s CEO Pasi Sydänlammi, who served as CEO until 19 June 2024.
In addition, the AGM decided on the following matters:

Resolution on the use of the profit shown on balance sheet and the payment of dividend
In accordance with the Board’s proposal, the AGM decided to pay dividend of EUR 0.36 per share based on the balance sheet adopted for the financial year 2024. The dividend will be paid to a shareholder who is registered in the Company’s shareholder register maintained by Euroclear Finland Ltd on the record date 10 April 2025. The dividend will be paid on 17 April 2025 in accordance with the rules of Euroclear Finland Ltd.

Remuneration of the Board of Directors
In accordance with the proposal of the Shareholders’ Nomination Committee, the AGM decided to pay the following annual remuneration to the members of the Board of Directors for the term ending at the AGM 2026: EUR 85,000 per year to the Chair, EUR 60,000 per year to the Vice Chair and for other members EUR 40,000 per year. The annual remuneration to the Chairs of the Board Committees are as follows: Chair of the Remuneration Committee EUR 6,000, Chair of the Risk Committee EUR 9 000 and Chair of the Audit Committee EUR 9,000. In addition, the meeting fees of EUR 1,000 for each Board and Committee meeting and EUR 500 for each email meeting will be paid.

Twenty-five (25) percent of the annual remuneration of the Board of Directors will be paid in the form of Oma Savings Bank Plc’s shares acquired from the market on behalf of the members of the Board of Directors. The shares will be acquired at a price formed on the market in public trading following the publication of the interim report for the period 1 January to 31 March 2025. The Company is responsible for the costs of acquiring the shares and any transfer tax. The rest of the annual fee is paid in cash to cover the taxes arising from the fee.

In addition, Oma Savings Bank Plc pays or reimburses travel expenses and other expenses related to board work to the members of the Board of Directors.

Number and election of the Board of Directors
The number of members of the Board of Directors was confirmed to be seven. Juhana Brotherus, Irma Gillberg-Hjelt, Aki Jaskari, Jaakko Ossa, Carl Pettersson, Kati Riikonen and Juha Volotinen were re-elected as Board members for a term ending at the end of the 2026 AGM.

Election and remuneration of the auditor
KPMG Oy Ab, a firm of authorised public accountants, was elected to continue as auditor for a term ending at the 2026 AGM. M.Sc (Econ.), APA Tuomas Ilveskoski will continue as responsible auditor. The auditor is paid based on reasonable invoicing approved by the Company.

Election and remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurer
KPMG Oy Ab, Authorized Sustainability Audit Firm, was elected as the Company’s sustainability reporting assurer for the term ending upon the conclusion of the 2026 AGM. APA, ASA Tuomas Ilveskoski will act as the principally responsible sustainability reporting assurer. The sustainability reporting assurer is paid based on reasonable invoicing approved by the Company.

Amendment of the Articles of Association
In accordance with the Board’s proposal, the AGM decided to amend the Company’s current Articles of Association as follows:

Amending Section 6 by removing the provision regarding the due date for the Nomination Committee’s proposals.
Supplementing Section 10 to enable remote general meetings. The Board can decide that general meetings are held without a physical meeting venue, allowing shareholders to exercise their decision-making rights in full and in real time through telecommunication and technical means (remote meeting).
Supplementing Section 12 to include provisions on deciding the remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurer and the appointment of the sustainability reporting assurer at general meetings.

Resolution on the revised charter of the Shareholders’ Nomination Committee
The AGM decided on the revisions to the Shareholders’ Nomination Committee Charter. The Nomination Committee is to submit its proposals regarding the composition and remuneration of the Board of Directors to the Company’s Board no later than the end of the calendar month preceding the Board meeting that decides on convening the AGM.

Additionally, the charter is amended to include a provision on the maximum continuous term of a Board member, ensuring alignment with the regulations, guidelines, and statements applicable to credit institutions, including the guidelines issued by the European Banking Authority (EBA). Certain technical revisions were also made.

The Shareholders’ Nomination Committee charter is available on the Company’s website at https://www.omasp.fi/en/investors/management-and-corporate-governance/nomination-committee

Authorisation of the Board of Directors to resolve on a share issue, the transfer of own shares and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares
The AGM decided, in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal to authorise the Board of Directors to resolve on the issuance of shares or transfer of the Company’s shares and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares referred to in Chapter 10, Section 1 of the Finnish Companies Act, subject to the following conditions:

Shares and special rights can be issued or disposed of in one or more instalments, either in return for payment or free of charge.

The total number of shares to be issued under the authorisation, including shares acquired on the basis of special rights, cannot exceed 3,000,000 shares, which corresponds to approximately 9 percent of the Company’s total number of shares on the day of the AGM as at the notice of the meeting.

The Board of Directors decides on all terms and conditions related to the issuance of shares. The authorisation concerns both the issuance of new shares and the transfer of own shares. A share issue and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares include the right to deviate from the pre-emptive right of shareholders if there is a weighty financial reason for the Company (special issue). A special share issue may be free of charge only if there is a particularly weighty financial reason from the point of view of the Company and in the interest of all its shareholders.

The authorisation is valid until the end of the next AGM, but not later than 30 June 2026. The authorisation revokes previous authorisations given by the AGM to decide on a share issue, as well as the option rights and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares.

Authorising the Board of Directors to decide on the repurchase of own shares
The AGM decided, in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal, to authorise the Board of Directors to decide on the repurchase of the Company’s own shares with funds belonging to the Company’s free equity under the following conditions:

Maximum number of 1,000,000 own shares may be repurchased, representing approximately 3 percent of the Company’s total shares according to the situation on the date of the notice of the meeting, however, in a manner that the number of own shares held by the Company does not exceed 10 percent of the Company’s total shares of the Company at any time. This amount includes the own shares held by the Company itself and its subsidiaries within the meaning of Chapter 15, Section 11 (1) of the Finnish Companies Act.

The Board of Directors is authorised to decide how to acquire own shares. Shares purchased by the Company may be held by it, cancelled or transferred. The Board of Directors decides on other matters related to the repurchasing of own shares.

The authorisation is valid until the closing of the next AGM, but not later than 30 June 2026.

The minutes of the Annual General Meeting
The minutes of the AGM will be available on the Company’s website latest 22 April 2025.

Oma Savings Bank Plc

Additional information:

Karri Alameri, CEO, tel. +358 45 656 5250, karri.alameri@omasp.fi
Sarianna Liiri, CFO, tel. +358 40 835 6712, sarianna.liiri@omasp.fi

DISTRIBUTION:
Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
Major media
www.omasp.fi

OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 500 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 48 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster City Council announces more generous payment options for leaseholders | Westminster City Council

Source: City of Westminster

The new plans, amongst the most generous in London, will ease the pressure on leaseholders with bills for major works

Westminster City Council is introducing new payment options for resident leaseholders facing large major works bills, in response to challenges with the cost of living and increased building costs that have put many residents in a challenging financial situation.

Those facing invoices of over £30,000 will be able to benefit from an 8-year interest-free payment plan – one of the most generous payment terms available to local authority leaseholders in London. They will also now having the option of paying back over 13 years, with the first 8 interest free.

Additionally, the Discretionary and Voluntary service charge loans, which are available to leaseholders with bills of over £20,000, will now be interest free for the first 8 years and no longer dependent on the applicant having to show they weren’t able to secure financing elsewhere.

This is part of the Council’s plans to limit the financial burden on leaseholders and tackle the cost of living crisis in Westminster.

Cllr Liza Begum, Cabinet Member for Housing Services said: “The council has seen a sharp rise in the cost of essential major works to its buildings and wants to ensure resident leaseholders are supported through loans with more favourable terms.

“That’s why we are increasing the number and generosity of repayment options available to resident leaseholders in Westminster, to ensure that they have the best possible financial support.

“If you are a leaseholder and you want to know, more contact our housing services team about changing your payment plan”

Notes to editor:

The full details of the two new repayment options for resident leaseholders with major works bills are as follows:

8 years – If you receive an invoice for more than £30,000 you can spread payments over eight years in 96 equal monthly payments. This option will not be made available where the property is sublet, owned by a company, or owned by a housing association. You must complete an extended payment instalment form. No interest is charged.
13 years – If you receive a bill for more than £30,000 you can spread payments over thirteen years in 156 equal monthly payments. No interest is charged for months 1-96. Interest is charged on the balance remaining at month 96 at 1.5% above the Bank of England Base rate for months 97-156. This option will not be made available where the property is sublet, owned by a company, or owned by a housing association. You must complete an extended payment instalment form.
For both of the Discretionary and Voluntary service charge loans, the criteria that leaseholders must have been unable to secure alternative financing has been removed and an interest free period of 8 years has been added. The full terms are now as follows:
- Discretionary Service Charge Loan – This option is available for residents leaseholders who receive a bill for more than £20,000. It will not be made available where the property is owned by a company or owned by a housing association. Where the property is sublet, we will review the application on a case by case basis. The service charge loan will be secured by a way of a legal charge on the property for a maximum of 25 years. Years 1 to 8 will be interest free. Interest is charged on the balance remaining at the end of year 8 at 1.5% above the Bank of England Base rate for years 9 to 25. Interest is calculated monthly. You will also need to pay the administration costs involved.
- Voluntary Service Charge Loan – This option is available for residents leaseholders who receive a bill for more than £20,000. This option will not be made available where the property is owned by a company or owned by a housing association. Where the property is sublet, we will review the application on a case by case basis. The service charge loan will be secured by a way of a legal charge on the property. Years 1 to 8 will be interest free. Interest is charged on the balance remaining at the end of year 8 at 1.5% above the Bank of England Base rate until the loan is repaid. Interest is calculated monthly. The administration fees to set up the loan and to register the charge against the property can also be added to the loan.
Details of the Council’s other interest-free repayment plans for leaseholders with smaller major works bills can be found on the Council’s website (please note that this webpage does not yet reflect the changes to the other plans that have been detailed above): Major Works service charges payment plans | Westminster City Council
If you are a leaseholder who has received a major works invoice for 2025/26, you will have access to the new payment plans on offer when they are implemented. Any leaseholders who are on historic payment plans for invoice issued before April 2025 can contact the council directly about moving to a new plan.
The Cabinet Member decision to approve these changes is subject to the usual call-in procedures. You can read the decision report here: HR25-05 CMR – Major Works service charges payment options.pdf

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 9, 2025

Name of the Issuer	Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation
Name of security	Federal loan bonds with constant coupon income
State registration number of the issue	26221RMFS from 06.02.2017
Date of the auction	April 9, 2025
Information about the placement (trading mode, placement form)	The placement of Bonds will be carried out in the Trading Mode “Placement: Auction” by holding an Auction to determine the placement price. BoardId: PACT (Settlements: Ruble)
Trade code	SU26221RMFS0
ISIN code	RO000A0ZHKhFM1
Calculation code	B01
Additional conditions of placement	The share of non-competitive bids in relation to the total volume of bids submitted by the Bidder may not exceed 90%.
Trading time	Trading hours: bid collection period: 12:00 – 12:30; bid execution period: 13:00 – 18:00.

Name of the Issuer	Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation
Name of security	federal loan bonds with indexed par value
State registration number of the issue	52005RMFS from 03/09/2023
Date of the auction	April 9, 2025
Information about the placement (trading mode, placement form)	The placement of Bonds will be carried out in the Trading Mode “Placement: Auction” by holding an Auction to determine the placement price. BoardId: PACT (Settlements: Ruble)
Trade code	SE52005RMFS4
ISIN code	RO000A105SV1
Calculation code	B01
Additional conditions of placement	The share of non-competitive bids in relation to the total volume of bids submitted by the Bidder may not exceed 90%.
Trading time	Trading hours: bid collection period: 14:30 – 15:00; bid execution period: 15:30 – 18:00.

Category: Banking

Introductory statement by Piero Cipollone, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs of the European Parliament

The vital role of cash in ensuring financial inclusion and resilience

The need to enhance Europe’s strategic autonomy in digital payments in a changing geopolitical environment

Digital euro project on track

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IEPFA and IPPB Sign MoA to Launch Phase 2 of “Niveshak Didi” to Boost Rural Women’s Financial Literacy

“Niveshak Didi” trains women postal workers and community leaders to act as financial educators within their local regions