Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Cornyn Introduce Outbound Investment Legislation to Counter China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced the Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act, which would safeguard the United States’ national security against the growing threat posed by the communist People’s Republic of China (PRC) by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investment in certain technologies in China.
    “When it comes to cutting-edge technologies – such as AI and semiconductors – the United States must remain ahead of China,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’m proud to stand with my colleagues across the aisle to introduce this bill that is critical for our national security. We can and must make sure no American investments are giving the Chinese Communist Party a leg up in developing these vitally important technologies.”
    The Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to prohibit U.S. investments in certain technologies in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including certain Artificial Intelligence (AI) models, quantum computers, materials used in hypersonic systems, and other military technologies. It would also require U.S. entities to notify the U.S. Department of the Treasury of investments in certain AI models in the PRC. Lastly, the legislation would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to impose sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) against PRC entities that engage with the PRC military and intelligence sectors.
    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to strengthen our national security and supply chains.Senators Cortez Masto and Rounds (R-S.D.) introduced the PASS Act to ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near U.S. military installations or sensitive sites and the Strengthening Exports Against China Act,which would incentivize economic growth by eliminating barriers for American businesses competing directly with China in emerging industries like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. She’s also introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare-earth magnets, which are critical components of cell phones, computers, defense systems, and electric vehicles, but are almost exclusively made in China.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Secures $10 Million Investment in Affordable Housing in Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Reno, Nev. – For years, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto demanded the nation’s 11 Federal Home Loan Banks – and the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco which serves Nevada – use their resources to invest in housing and community development. This week, the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLBank-SF) provided the first investment into the Nevada Housing Division’s (NHD) single-family bond program. The $10 million dollar investment will support the Housing Finance Agency’s down payment assistance program that helps Nevadans buy homes they can afford.
    “I’ve been pushing the FHLBank of San Francisco for years to do more with all their resources, and I’m glad to see them working with the Nevada Housing Division to support families buying homes in Nevada,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “The FHLBank system was created to support housing, and I expect to see much more investment in Nevada and around the nation in the future.”
    Following Senator Cortez Masto’s push, state housing finance agencies, community development financial institutions and other institutions have sought opportunities to benefit from the FHLBs’ $467 billion investment portfolio. Thanks to the Senator’s work to bring attention to this critical housing funding source, Nevada Housing Division and the FHLBank-SF were able to work together and finalize this critical investment – the first of its kind in Nevada.  
    Senator Cortez Masto has been a leader working to push the FHLBanks to help lower costs and build more housing supply. Last year she secured $9.4 million from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of San Francisco’s targeted competitive affordable housing fund — almost twice as much as Nevada received the year before — to build more middle-class homes, and she’s pushing to reform the FHLB system.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Super excited about Adobe’s new Microsoft 365 Copilot agents, which bring the best of Adobe right into your flow of work. Check it out.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Super excited about Adobe’s new Microsoft 365 Copilot agents, which bring the best of Adobe right into your flow of work. Check it out.

    As the United Nations (UN) Global Climate Champion, I play my part successfully. I served, motivated, inspired, closed digital divides, bridged skills gaps, unlocked human potential and unleashed productivity while building a more prosperous world. What is Boldness in AI Leadership? I will be delighted to join the largest team of EXPERTS for the third and final masterclass on “Innovation and Technology for Recovery and Reconstruction of Housing and Critical Infrastructure” on 15 May, 2025! Experts from United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), UNDP, SEEDS, The World Bank, UN-Habitat (United Nations Human Settlements Program), and UNOPS will share lessons learned, good practices, and innovative strategies. I will attend all three sessions (20 March, 9 April, 15 May). As a stellar servant, authentic, visionary and transformational leader, I am passionate about upskilling and continuous learning to sharpen my global leadership skills and stay relevant. Learn more from experts about organizational readiness, preparedness, and effectiveness.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Micron Innovates From the Data Center to the Edge With NVIDIA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GTC 2025 — Secular growth of AI is built on the foundation of high-performance, high-bandwidth memory solutions. These high-performing memory solutions are critical to unlock the capabilities of GPUs and processors. Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), today announced it is the world’s first and only memory company shipping both HBM3E and SOCAMM (small outline compression attached memory module) products for AI servers in the data center. This extends Micron’s industry leadership in designing and delivering low-power DDR (LPDDR) for data center applications.

    Micron’s SOCAMM, a modular LPDDR5X memory solution, was developed in collaboration with NVIDIA to support the NVIDIA GB300 Grace Blackwell Ultra Superchip. The Micron HBM3E 12H 36GB is also designed into the NVIDIA HGX B300 NVL16 and GB300 NVL72 platforms, while the HBM3E 8H 24GB is available for the NVIDIA HGX B200 and GB200 NVL72 platforms. The deployment of Micron HBM3E products in NVIDIA Hopper and NVIDIA Blackwell systems underscores Micron’s critical role in accelerating AI workloads.

    Think AI, think memory, think Micron
    At GTC 2025, Micron will showcase its complete AI memory and storage portfolio to fuel AI from the data center to the edge, highlighting the deep alignment between Micron and its ecosystem partners. Micron’s broad portfolio includes HBM3E 8H 24GB and HBM3E 12H 36GB, LPDDR5X SOCAMMs, GDDR7 and high-capacity DDR5 RDIMMs and MRDIMMs. Additionally, Micron offers an industry-leading portfolio of data center SSDs and automotive and industrial products such as UFS4.1, NVMe® SSDs and LPDDR5X, all of which are suited for edge compute applications.

    “AI is driving a paradigm shift in computing, and memory is at the heart of this evolution. Micron’s contributions to the NVIDIA Grace Blackwell platform yields significant performance and power-saving benefits for AI training and inference applications,” said Raj Narasimhan, senior vice president and general manager of Micron’s Compute and Networking Business Unit. “HBM and LP memory solutions help unlock improved computational capabilities for GPUs.”

    SOCAMM: a new standard for AI memory performance and efficiency
    Micron’s SOCAMM solution is now in volume production. The modular SOCAMM solution enables accelerated data processing, superior performance, unmatched power efficiency and enhanced serviceability to provide high-capacity memory for increasing AI workload requirements.

    Micron SOCAMM is the world’s fastest, smallest, lowest-power and highest capacity modular memory solution,1 designed to meet the demands of AI servers and data-intensive applications. This new SOCAMM solution enables data centers to get the same compute capacity with better bandwidth, improved power consumption and scaling capabilities to provide infrastructure flexibility.

    • Fastest: SOCAMMs provide over 2.5 times higher bandwidth at the same capacity when compared to RDIMMs, allowing faster access to larger training datasets and more complex models, as well as increasing throughput for inference workloads.2
    • Smallest: At 14x90mm, the innovative SOCAMM form factor occupies one-third of the size of the industry-standard RDIMM form factor, enabling compact, efficient server design.3
    • Lowest power: Leveraging LPDDR5X memory, SOCAMM products consume one-third the power compared to standard DDR5 RDIMMs, inflecting the power performance curve in AI architectures.4
    • Highest capacity: SOCAMM solutions use four placements of 16-die stacks of LPDDR5X memory to enable a 128GB memory module, offering the highest capacity LPDDR5X memory solution, which is essential for advancements towards faster AI model training and increased concurrent users for inference workloads.  
    • Optimized scalability and serviceability: SOCAMM’s modular design and innovative stacking technology improve serviceability and aid the design of liquid-cooled servers. The enhanced error correction feature in Micron’s LPDDR5X with data center-focused test flows, provides an optimized memory solution designed for the data center.

    Industry-leading HBM solutions
    Micron continues its competitive lead in the AI industry by offering 50% increased capacity over the HBM3E 8H 24GB within the same cube form factor.5 Additionally, the HBM3E12H 36GB provides up to 20% lower power consumption compared to the competition’s HBM3E 8H 24GB offering, while providing 50% higher memory capacity.6

    By continuing to deliver exceptional power and performance metrics, Micron aims to maintain its technology momentum as a leading AI memory solutions provider through the launch of HBM4. Micron’s HBM4 solution is expected to boost performance by over 50% compared to HBM3E.7

    Complete memory and storage solutions designed for AI from the data center to the edge
    Micron also has a proven portfolio of storage products designed to meet the growing demands of AI workloads. Advancing storage technology in performance and power efficiency at the speed of light requires tight collaboration with ecosystem partners to ensure interoperability and a seamless customer experience. Micron delivers optimized SSDs for AI workloads such as: inference, training, data preparation, analytics and data lakes. Micron will be showcasing the following storage solutions at GTC:

    • High-performance Micron 9550 NVMe and Micron 7450 NVMe SSDs included on the GB200 NVL72 recommended vendor list.
    • Micron’s PCIe Gen6 SSD, demonstrating over 27GB/s of bandwidth in successful interoperability testing with leading PCIe switch and retimer vendors, driving the industry to this new generation of flash storage.
    • Storing more data in less space is essential to get the most out of AI data centers. The Micron 61.44TB 6550 ION NVMe SSD is the drive of choice for bleeding-edge AI cluster exascale storage solutions, by delivering over 44 petabytes of storage per rack,8 14GB/s and 2 million IOPs per drive inside a 20-watt footprint.

    As AI and generative AI expand and are integrated on-device at the edge, Micron is working closely with key ecosystem partners to deliver innovative solutions for AI for automotive, industrial and consumer. In addition to high performance requirements, these applications require enhanced quality, reliability and longevity requirements for application usage models.

    • One example of this type of ecosystem collaboration is the integration of Micron LPDDR5X on the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin platform. This combined solution provides increased processing performance and bandwidth while also reducing power consumption.
    • By utilizing Micron’s 1β (1-beta) DRAM node, LPDDR5X memory meets automotive and industrial requirements and offers higher speeds up to 9.6 Gbps and increased capacities from 32Gb to 128Gb to support higher bandwidth.
    • Additionally, Micron LPDDR5X automotive products support operating environments from -40 degrees Celsius up to 125 degrees Celsius to provide a wide temperature range that meets automotive quality and standards.

    Micron will exhibit its full data center memory and storage product portfolio at GTC, March 17 – 21, in booth #541.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    Additional Resources: 

    About Micron Technology, Inc.
    Micron Technology, Inc. is an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions, transforming how the world uses information to enrich life for all. With a relentless focus on our customers, technology leadership, and manufacturing and operational excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND, and NOR memory and storage products through our Micron® and Crucial® brands. Every day, the innovations that our people create fuel the data economy, enabling advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and compute-intensive applications that unleash opportunities — from the data center to the intelligent edge and across the client and mobile user experience. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), visit micron.com. 

    © 2025 Micron Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. Information, products, and/or specifications are subject to change without notice. Micron, the Micron logo, and all other Micron trademarks are the property of Micron Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Micron Media Relations Contact 
      Kelly Sasso 
      Micron Technology, Inc. 
      +1 (208) 340-2410 
      ksasso@micron.com

    ___________________
    1 Calculations based on comparing one 64GB 128-bit bus SOCAMM to two 32GB 64-bit bus RDIMMs.

    2 Calculated using transfer speeds comparing 64GB 2R 8533MT/s SOCAMM and 64GB 2Rx4 6400MT/s RDIMMs. ​

    3 Calculated area between one SOCAMM and one RDIMM​.

    4 Calculated based on power used in watts by one 128GB, 128-bit bus width SOCAMM compared to two 128GB, 128-bit bus width DDR5 RDIMMs​.

    5 Comparison based on HBM3E 36GB capacity versus HBM3E 24GB capacity when both are at the 12x10mm package size.

    6 Based on internal calculations, and customer testing and feedback for Micron HBM3E versus the competition’s HBM3E offerings.

    7 Calculated bandwidth by comparing HBM4 and HBM3E specifications.

    8 Assumes 20x 61.44TB E3.S SSDs in a 1U server with 20x E3.S slots available for storage and that 36 rack units are available for the servers in each rack.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 18.03.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    18 March 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 18.03.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 18 March 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 2,536,936 4.94
    CEUX 1,127,528 4.95
    BATE
    AQEU
    TQEX 169,978 4.95
    Total 3,834,442 4.94

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 18 March 2025 was EUR 18,943,677. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 179,424,434 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

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

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

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

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: J’JO’s findings shed light on need and value for more crypto index investing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The J’JO35 crypto index offers a seamless onboarding process for new and retail investors, as well as institutional players, by enabling them to invest in the top 35 tokens by market capitalization

    SINGAPORE, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — J’JO Finance, a crypto index solution that prioritizes risk mitigation and is available to everyone with only a few clicks, reveals several key insights from an internal document highlighting how index investing can help retail crypto investors. The document also includes the benefits its solution offers, and its competitive advantage. As a platform prioritizing user satisfaction, J’JO shares its insights to promote transparency and awareness around the value crypto indexing provides, including its own J’JO35 index of the top 35 cryptocurrencies.

    In traditional finance, index investing has proven its effectiveness over the past decades while being widely recognized by economists as the most accessible and efficient investing tool. In fact, according to The Economist, these funds have grown around six times faster than those handled by fund managers. However, the crypto ecosystem hasn’t seen that level of income generation nor the same degree of interest from digital asset investors. This is largely due to the industry not prioritizing the importance of risk management, diversified portfolios, and user experience.

    Despite at least three-quarters of users losing on their long-term investments, the overall market has grown by over 27,000 percent between January 2014 and December 2024. And since its launch in 2020, J’JO’s J’JO35 index has returned more than 1,100 percent earnings. The following is a summary of some of J’JO’s key findings on why crypto indexes are a valuable resource for retail investors:

    • Simplicity: Index investing is incredibly simple and requires no specialized knowledge, company (or project) analysis, expert involvement, or investor actions.
    • Accessibility: In theory, crypto indexes are available for everyone because they remove many of the industry’s investing barriers such as middlemen and a minimum deposit. This also frees investors from following the news, monitoring the market, or worrying about their positions. Whatever happens, one’s investments always remain in top-performing projects or currencies, regardless of the amount invested.
    • Reliability: In traditional finance, indexes have consistently demonstrated proven long-term effectiveness with the S&P 500 index, for example, nearly quadrupling the ROI of five top funds.
    • Risk management: Indexes provide portfolio diversification which helps mitigate risk by spreading it across several assets. This reduces volatility and insulates investors from unsystematic risks.

    J’JO’s report also outlines the customer benefits and competitive advantages of its index. A few of these advantages include:

    • Purchasing real assets: J’JO doesn’t offer synthetic products or tokens that “include” or “reflect” other assets, wrapped coins, or altered tokens. The company’s clients own real coins that are part of the index and can easily access them in their exchange accounts.
    • J’JO doesn’t handle users’ funds: Users aren’t required to transfer their funds to J’JO as all investments and assets remain secure on their personal exchange accounts. Investors’ money stays with them, yet it is fully invested in the index, allowing for capital growth without transferring funds.
    • Low entry threshold: J’JO doesn’t impose a minimum investment amount, making the solution accessible to everyone, even those without significant capital.
    • Compatibility with all major exchanges: Users can choose their preferred exchange and even connect multiple exchanges simultaneously, allowing for seamless management of their crypto investment portfolio from a single platform.
    • No Commissions: J’JO operates on a fixed subscription model, costing $140 per year, with no additional fees, meaning no commissions on the invested amount or income generated. The platform is free for investments up to $500.

    “Despite the slight instability in the current economic climate, today’s investor sees crypto as a worthy asset but doesn’t have the time to deal with blockchain’s complex and confusing technical aspects,” says Andrei Ponomarev, co-founder and CEO of J’JO. “Both traditional investors and crypto natives have seen the consistent growth of the digital asset market over the last decade and are starting to wonder if there is a straightforward mechanism to gain exposure within a safe and diversified framework. This is where J’JO steps in to provide convenient access to a risk-managed basket of digital assets that account for 80 percent of the sector’s market capitalization.”

    About J’JO:
    Founded in 2020 and based in Singapore, J’JO offers the J’JO35, an index of the top 35 cryptocurrencies in the market. The service connects users to their exchange of choice and balances their portfolios according to the index. As the S&P 500 of the decentralized economy, J’JO is a service for investing in a market index of cryptocurrencies that allows users to maintain full control over their assets. Since 2020, J’JO35 has outperformed Bitcoin and Ethereum and has an APY of 67 percent. For more information, visit: https://jjo.finance/en

    Contact:
    Ari Karp
    pr@jjoapp.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by J’JO.The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/338fd359-aa12-4c5c-9321-6285fab4509d

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Various measures have been taken by the government to strengthen cyber security in the financial sector

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Various measures have been taken by the government to strengthen  cyber security in the financial sector

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) based tool ‘MuleHunter’ for identification of money mule has been launched by RBI

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 4:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has been constantly engaging with the financial sector regulators and other concerned stakeholders to strengthen the cyber security. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (l4C) as an attached office to provide a framework and eco-system for Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) to deal with cybercrimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. The MHA has also launched the National Cyber Crime Reporting portal(https://cybercrime.gov.in) to enable the public to report all types of cyber crimes. Cyber crime incidents reported on this portal are routed automatically to the respective State/UT LEAs for further handling as per the provisions of law. The ‘Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System’ has been launched for immediate reporting of financial frauds and to stop siphoning off fund by the fraudsters. So far, an amount of Rs. 4386 Crore (approx..) has been saved involving 13.36 lakh complaints. Further suspect registry of identifiers of cyber criminals has been launched by MHA in collaboration with Banks/Financial institutions.

    In order to reinforce the security of digital transactions, various initiatives have been taken by the Government, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) from time to time. RBI has issued Master Directions on Digital Payment Security Controls in February, 2021 to combat web and mobile app threats. These guidelines mandate the banks to implement a common minimum standards of security controls for various payment channels like internet, mobile banking, card payment etc. RBI has also launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based tool ‘MuleHunter’ for identification of money mule and advised the banks and financial institutions for its uses.

    Similarly, NPCI has also implemented device binding between customer mobile number and the device, two factor authentication through PIN, daily transaction limit, limits and curbs on use cases etc to secure UPI transactions. NPCI also provides a fraud monitoring solution to all the banks to generate alerts and decline transactions by using AI/ML based models. RBI and Banks have also been taking up awareness campaigns through short SMS, radio campaign, publicity on prevention of ‘cyber-crime’ etc.

    This information was given by Minister of State For Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha  today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS- MSME) provides 60% guarantee for credit facility up to Rs.100 crore

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS- MSME) provides 60% guarantee for credit facility up to Rs.100 crore

    Measures pertaining to direct taxes taken by the government for reducing the compliance burden for smaller businesses and individual tax payers

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 4:54PM by PIB Delhi

    The Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS- MSME) has been launched for providing 60% guarantee coverage by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for credit facility up to Rs.100 crore sanctioned to eligible MSMEs under MCGS-MSME for purchase of equipment/ machinery.

    The eligibility criteria for borrowers under Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) is as below:

    i. It should be an MSME with valid Udyam Registration Number;

    ii. It should not be an NPA with any lender;

    iii. Minimum cost of equipment /machinery is 75% of project cost;

    The Scheme is being implemented by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC), a wholly owned company of Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Government of India. The MLI shall sanction loans to eligible borrowers and then submit details of the loan account on the portal of NCGTC along with payment of fees, whereupon the MLI shall get a confirmation of loan being guaranteed under the Scheme.

    The Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) / All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs) and Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs), shall be the eligible MLIs under the Scheme, subject to execution of an agreement by them with NCGTC.

    Further, various measures pertaining to direct taxes have been undertaken recently by the government for reducing the compliance burden for smaller businesses and individual tax payers: –

    i. Provisions for presumptive taxation for businesses under Section 44 AD and Section 44 AE of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (the Act).

    ii. Provisions for tax audit for businesses under Section 44 AB of the Act.

    iii. Provision for reduction in compliance burden by omission of TCS on sale of specified goods under Section 206C of the Act.

    iv. Rationalization of tax deducted at source (TDS) rates under various provisions of the Act.

    v. Simplification of the Income-tax Act is proposed.

    The new Income-tax Bill 2025 proposes to make the direct tax provisions concise, lucid, easy to read and understand. Redundant provisions have been eliminated and the drafting style of the new Bill is straightforward and clear.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A total of 55.02 crore Jan-Dhan accounts have been opened till 7th March 2025, out of which 36.63 crore accounts are in rural and semi-urban areas

    Source: Government of India (2)

    A total of 55.02 crore Jan-Dhan accounts have been opened till 7th March 2025, out of which 36.63 crore accounts are in rural and semi-urban areas

    Cumulative enrolment under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) is 50.30 crore till 7th March 2025

    Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Stand Up India Scheme and other financial inclusion schemes have also witnessed remarkable progress

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 4:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government initiated the National Mission for Financial Inclusion (NMFI), namely the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) in August, 2014 to provide universal banking services for every unbanked adult based on the guiding principles of banking the unbanked, securing the unsecured, funding the unfunded and serving unserved and underserved areas. A total of 55.02 crore Jan-Dhan accounts have been opened till 07.03.2025, out of which, 36.63 crore accounts are in rural and semi-urban areas.

    In addition to the PMJDY, the following schemes have also been launched to provide affordable financial services for all, especially marginalized and underserved populations:

    i. Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY): The Scheme is a one-year personal accident insurance scheme, renewable from year to year, offering coverage of Rs. 2 lakh for death or permanent total disability and Rs. 1 lakh for permanent partial disability due to an accident at a premium of Rs. 20/- per annum. It is available to people in the age group of 18 to 70 years having a bank account who give their consent to join the scheme.

    As on 07.03.2025, cumulative enrolment under PMSBY is 50.30 crore.

     ii. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY): The Scheme is a one-year life insurance scheme, renewable from year to year, offering coverage of Rs. Two lakh for death due to any reason at a premium of Rs. 436/- per annum and is available to people in the age group of 18 to 50 years having a bank account who give their consent to join the scheme.

    As on 07.03.2025, cumulative enrolment under PMJJBY is 23.21 crore.

    iii. Atal Pension Yojana: The Scheme aims to provide monthly pension to eligible subscribers with age limit of 18 to 40 years not covered under any organized pension Scheme. Under this scheme, the subscribers would receive the fixed minimum pension of Rs. 1000, Rs. 2000, Rs. 3000, Rs. 4000 and Rs. 5000 per month, at the age of 60 years, depending on the contributions.

    As on 07.03.2025, enrolments under this scheme are 7.49 crore.

    iv. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): The Scheme provides access to institutional finance to micro/small business units up to Rs.20 lakh for income generating activities such as manufacturing, trading, services, activities allied to agriculture.

    As on 28.02.2025, 52.07 crore loans amounting to Rs. 33.19 lakh crore have been sanctioned since inception of the Scheme.

    v. Stand Up India Scheme (SUPI): The Scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship among people from Schedule caste/Schedule tribe and woman. The Scheme facilitates bank loans between Rs.10 lakh and Rs.1 crore to one Scheduled Caste/ Scheduled Tribe borrower and one-woman borrower per bank branch of Scheduled Commercial Banks for setting up greenfield enterprises in trading, manufacturing and services sector.

    As on 07.03.2025, 2.67 lakh loans amounting to Rs. 60,504 crores have been sanctioned since inception of the Scheme.

    vi. PM Vishwakarma Scheme: The Scheme, launched on 17.09.2023, is being administered jointly by Ministry of Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Ministry of Skill Development & Enterprises and Department of Financial Services. It aims to provide end-to end holistic support to traditional artists and craftspeople engaged in 18 identified trades through access to skill training, collateral-free credit, modern tools, market linkage support and incentive for digital transactions.

    vii. Prime Minister Street Vendor’s Atma Nirbhar Nidhi (PMSVANidhi): The Scheme is being administered by Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA). It was launched on June 01, 2020 with the main objective of providing relief to street vendors affected by Covid-19 lockdown. The Scheme envisages empowering street vendors by not only extending loans to them but also for their holistic economic development.

    Further, from time to time, camps are conducted at village level to promote awareness about various financial inclusion schemes and to enrol more people under these schemes.

    This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    ****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2112321) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content

    Source: Government of India

    Under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content

    The Government has provided special packages on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) over and above the NBS subsidy rates on need basis to ensure smooth availability of DAP at affordable prices to farmers

    Urea is provided to the farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price; MRP of 45 kg bag of urea is Rs. 242 per bag (exclusive of charges towards neem coating and taxes as applicable) which  has remained unchanged since 01.03.2018 to till date

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 4:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has implemented Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme w.e.f. 01.04.2010 for Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. Under the NBS scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy, decided on an annual/bi-annual basis, is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content including Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP). Under NBS scheme, The P&K sector is decontrolled, fertilizer companies are allowed to fix MRP at reasonable levels which is monitored by the Government. The fertilizer companies manufacture/import fertilizers as per the market dynamics.

    Further, in order to ensure smooth availability of DAP at affordable prices to farmers, the Government has provided special packages on DAP over and above the NBS subsidy rates on need basis. Recently, in 2024-25, due to geo-political situation, adversely affecting the viability of procurement of DAP by the fertilizer companies, the Government has approved One-time special package on DAP beyond the NBS rates on actual PoS (Point of Sale) sale of DAP for the period from 01.04.2024 till 31.12.2024 @ ₹ 3500 per MT which has now been extended till 31.03.2025 to ensure sustainable availability of DAP at affordable price to the farmers. Further, the guidelines on evaluation of reasonableness of MRPs fixed by the P&K Fertilizer companies also ensure availability of fertilizers at affordable prices to farmers across the country including Odisha.

    Urea, is provided to the farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP). The MRP of 45 kg bag of urea is Rs.242 per bag (exclusive of charges towards neem coating and taxes as applicable) and the MRP has remained unchanged since 01.03.2018 to till date. The difference between the delivered cost of urea at farm gate and net market realization by the urea units is given as a subsidy to the urea manufacturer/importer by the Government of India. Accordingly, all farmers are being supplied urea at subsidized rates.

    The Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) under the All India Coordinated Research Project on  ‘Long-term Fertilizer Experiments’ has assessed the impact of long-term use of chemical fertilizers in different soil types (fixed locations) under dominant cropping systems. Investigations carried out over five decades at fixed sites have indicated that there is no harmful effect of chemical fertilizers on soil fertility with balanced and judicious use. However, imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers coupled with low addition of organic matter over years may cause multi nutrient deficiencies vis-à-vis decline in soil health. Continuous use of nitrogenous fertilizer alone had deleterious effects on soil health and crop productivity showing deficiencies of other nutrients. The investigation over the last few decades indicated that even in the NPK fertilized system, nutritional disorders in terms of deficiency of micro and secondary nutrients surfaced after a few years affecting soil health and crop productivity. Highest decline in crop yield was observed in plots receiving only urea. In case of drip irrigation (fertigation), comparable crop yield can be obtained with less amount of water and fertilizers due to higher water and nutrient use efficiencies.

    ICAR recommends soil test based balanced and integrated nutrient management through conjunctive use of both inorganic and organic sources (manure, bio-fertilizers etc.) of plant nutrients for judicious use of chemical fertilizers and to improve soil health. The ICAR also imparts training, organizes FLDs etc. to educate farmers on all these aspects. All these measures reduce chemical fertilizer use in the country.

    Further, the Government has approved the Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/MT to promote organic fertilizers, i.e. manure produced at plants under GOBARdhan initiative covering different Biogas/CBG support schemes/programmes of stakeholder Ministries/Departments such as Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), ‘Waste to Energy’ programme of Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) of Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), etc. with total outlay of Rs. 1451.84 crore (FY 2023-24 to 2025-26), which includes a corpus of Rs. 360 crore for research gap funding, etc.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.

    *****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2112304) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: TrustCo Bank Corp NY Announces Million Share Stock Repurchase Plan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GLENVILLE, N.Y., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TrustCo Bank Corp NY (TrustCo, Nasdaq: TRST) (the “Company” or “TrustCo”) today announced that its Board of Directors has approved a stock repurchase program. Under the stock repurchase program, TrustCo may repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock, or approximately 5% of its current outstanding shares. The repurchase program will permit shares to be repurchased in open market or private transactions, through block trades, or pursuant to any trading plan that may be adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Robert J. McCormick said “We are very pleased to announce this bold move to strategically deploy capital. The repurchase program announced today authorizes the acquisition of up to five percent of the Company’s outstanding shares. We believe that this repurchase program represents a meaningful opportunity for value enhancement to the extent that our stock is undervalued relative to the strength of our business.”

    Repurchases will be made at management’s discretion over the next approximately twelve months at prices management considers to be attractive and in the best interests of both TrustCo and its stockholders, subject to the availability of stock, general market conditions, the trading price of the stock, alternative uses for capital, and TrustCo’s financial performance. Open market purchases will be conducted in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

    The repurchase program may be suspended, terminated or modified at any time for any reason, including market conditions, the cost of repurchasing shares, the availability of alternative investment opportunities, liquidity, and other factors deemed appropriate. These factors may also affect the timing and amount of share repurchases. The repurchase program does not obligate TrustCo to purchase any particular number of shares.

    About TrustCo Bank Corp NY

    TrustCo Bank Corp NY is a $6.2 billion savings and loan holding company. Through its subsidiary, Trustco Bank, TrustCo operates 136 offices in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida. Trustco has a more than 100-year tradition of providing high-quality services, including a wide variety of deposit and loan products. In addition, Trustco Bank’s Wealth Management Department offers a full range of investment services, retirement planning and trust and estate administration services. Trustco Bank is rated as one of the best performing savings banks in the country.

    The common shares of TrustCo are traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol TRST.
    For more information, visit www.trustcobank.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this news release that are not historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will” and similar references to future developments, results or periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding our expectations relating to the newly-approved stock repurchase program. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations, as well as certain assumptions and estimates made by, and information available to, management at the time the statements are made. TrustCo wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made, and such forward-looking statements are subject to factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially for TrustCo from the views, beliefs and projections expressed in such statements. Examples of these include, but are not limited to: the effects of inflationary pressures and changes in monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including increases or decreases in the Federal funds target rate by, and interest rate policies of, the Federal Reserve Board; changes in and uncertainty related to benchmark interest rates used to price loans and deposits; instability in global economic conditions and geopolitical matters; U.S. government shutdowns, credit rating downgrades, or failure to increase the debt ceiling; the risks and uncertainties under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and, if any, in our subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q or other securities filings; the other financial, operational and legal risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in TrustCo’s cautionary statements contained in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and the effect of all of such items on our operations, liquidity and capital position, and on the financial condition of our borrowers and other customers. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent TrustCo management’s judgment as of the date of this news release. TrustCo disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements, either as a result of future developments, new information or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Subsidiary: Trustco Bank

    Contact: Robert M. Leonard
      Executive Vice President
      (518) 381-3693

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Aterian Announces Share Repurchase Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUMMIT, N.J., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) (“Aterian” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled consumer products company, announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized a share repurchase program of up to $3.0 million of the Company’s common stock for a period of two years ending March 18, 2027.

    “The Board’s decision reflects our collective confidence in the Company’s future, the strength and flexibility of our financial profile, and our commitment to shareholders. We firmly believe that Aterian’s stock is significantly undervalued, and this repurchase program underscores our conviction in the long-term value we are creating,” said Arturo Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer. “Over the last 18 months, we have made substantial progress in positioning Aterian for sustainable growth beginning in 2025. While our capital allocation strategy will continue to support these growth initiatives, our improved outlook and strong balance sheet give us the confidence to return capital directly to our shareholders via this share repurchase plan.”    

    Purchases under the plan may be made from time to time, through various means as the Company deems appropriate, including open market transactions, block purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise in accordance with applicable federal securities laws, including Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Purchases will be based on a variety of factors such as price, capital position, liquidity, financial performance, alternative uses of capital, and overall market conditions. There can be no assurance as to the number of shares the Company will purchase, if any. The share repurchase program may be increased or otherwise modified, renewed, suspended or terminated by the Company at any time, without prior notice.

    About Aterian, Inc.
    Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) is a technology-enabled consumer products company that builds and acquires leading e-commerce brands with top selling consumer products, in multiple categories, including home and kitchen appliances, health and wellness and air quality devices. The Company sells across the world’s largest online marketplaces with a focus on Amazon, Walmart and Target in the U.S. and on its own direct to consumer websites. Our primary brands include Squatty Potty, hOmeLabs, Mueller Living, PurSteam, Healing Solutions and Photo Paper Direct. To learn more about Aterian and its brands, visit aterian.io

    Forward Looking Statements
    All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements including, in particular, statements relating to the Company’s share repurchase program, including timing of and actual number of the shares to be repurchased, the method of share repurchase, the funding source of the share repurchases and the Company’s ability to repurchase shares while maintaining sufficient cash resources to advance its growth strategies, our expectations for growth in 2025, and our capital allocation strategies.

    These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control and could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to, those related to our ability to continue as a going concern, our ability to meet financial covenants with our lenders, our ability to maintain and to grow market share in existing and new product categories; our ability to continue to profitably sell the SKUs we operate; our ability to create operating leverage and efficiency when integrating companies that we acquire, including through the use of our team’s expertise, the economies of scale of our supply chain and automation driven by our platform; those related to our ability to grow internationally and through the launch of products under our brands and the acquisition of additional brands; those related to consumer demand, our cash flows, financial condition, forecasting and revenue growth rate; our supply chain including sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing and fulfillment; our ability to manage expenses, working capital and capital expenditures efficiently; our business model and our technology platform; our ability to disrupt the consumer products industry; our ability to generate profitability and stockholder value; international tariffs and trade measures; inventory management, product liability claims, recalls or other safety and regulatory concerns; reliance on third party online marketplaces; seasonal and quarterly variations in our revenue; acquisitions of other companies and technologies and our ability to integrate such companies and technologies with our business; our ability to continue to access debt and equity capital (including on terms advantageous to the Company) and the extent of our leverage; and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), all of which you may obtain for free on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, even if subsequently made available by us on our website or otherwise. We do not undertake any obligation to update, amend or clarify these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    Contact: 
    The Equity Group

    Devin Sullivan
    Managing Director
    dsullivan@equityny.com

    Conor Rodriguez
    Associate
    crodriguez@equityny.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: AirNet Granted Additional 180-Day Grace Period to Regain Compliance with Nasdaq Bid Price Requirement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AirNet Technology Inc. (“AirNet” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ANTE), is pleased to announce that Nasdaq has granted the Company an additional 180-day grace period, until September 15, 2025, to regain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s minimum $1.00 bid price per share requirement.  

    AirNet remains fully committed to addressing the bid price deficiency during this extended compliance period. If the Company’s closing bid price meets or exceeds $1 per ADS for a minimum of 10 consecutive business days within this timeframe, the Company will be in compliance with that requirement and Nasdaq should close this matter.

    The Company has demonstrated compliance with all other applicable Nasdaq continued listing requirements, including the market value of publicly held shares and shareholder equity thresholds.

    To ensure compliance, AirNet intends to monitor its ADS price closely and will take all necessary steps to maintain its Nasdaq listing, including effecting an ADS ratio change or reverse stock split.

    Forward-Looking Statement

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements.” Such statements may be preceded by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential,” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, and cannot be predicted or quantified, and, consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. None of the outcomes expressed herein are guaranteed. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) our inability to manufacture our product candidates on a commercial scale on our own, or in collaboration with third parties; (ii) difficulties in obtaining financing on commercially reasonable terms; (iii) changes in the size and nature of our competition; (iv) loss of one or more key executives or scientists; and (v) difficulties in securing regulatory approval to proceed to the next level of the clinical trials or to market our product candidates. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F and its Current Reports on Form 6-K. Investors are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company’s securities, nor shall such securities be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of any of the Company’s securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction.

    Company Contact

    Penny Pei
    Investor Relations
    AirNet Technology Inc.
    Tel: +86-10-8460-8678
    Email: penny@ihangmei.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Magnite Successfully Completes Second Term Loan Repricing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reduces Interest Rate by an Additional 75 Basis Points

    Over $2.7 Million in Yearly Interest Payment Savings

    NEW YORK, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising company, today announced the second successful repricing of its $363 million senior secured term loan facility (Term Loan) due February 2031.

    The repricing reduces the interest rate by 75 basis points to Term SOFR + 3.00% from the previous rate of Term SOFR + 3.75% and will result in yearly interest savings of over $2.7 million. The interest rate improvement represents a cumulative reduction of 200 basis points compared to the rate prior to the refinancing of the Term Loan in February of 2024. There are no changes to the maturity of the Term Loan following this repricing, and all other terms are substantially unchanged.

    About Magnite

    We’re Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising company. Publishers use our technology to monetize their content across all screens and formats including CTV, online video, display, and audio. The world’s leading agencies and brands trust our platform to access brand-safe, high-quality ad inventory and execute billions of advertising transactions each month. Anchored in bustling New York City, sunny Los Angeles, mile high Denver, historic London, colorful Singapore, and down under in Sydney, Magnite has offices across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC.

    Investor Relations Contact
    Nick Kormeluk
    (949) 500-0003
    nkormeluk@magnite.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: ACM Research Appoints Charlie Pappis to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACM Research, Inc. (“ACM”) (NASDAQ: ACMR), a leading supplier of wafer processing solutions for semiconductor and advanced packaging applications, today announced the appointment of Charlie Pappis to its Board of Directors, effective March 15, 2025. With the addition of Mr. Pappis, ACM’s Board of Directors now comprises five members, further strengthening its leadership and expertise as the company executes its long-term growth strategy.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Pappis to our Board of Directors,” said Dr. David Wang, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACM. “His deep industry knowledge, proven leadership in scaling global operations, and commitment to customer-driven innovation align perfectly with ACM’s mission to become a key supplier of capital equipment to major global semiconductor companies. His insights will be invaluable as we increase our investments and business expansion in the U.S. to support our growth initiatives to new markets beyond mainland China.”

    Charlie Pappis is a semiconductor industry veteran with more than 40 years of leadership experience in global operations, customer engagement, and business growth. He currently serves as President of Pappis Consulting, advising semiconductor equipment and supply chain companies. Previously, he spent more than 30 years at a major global U.S.-based semiconductor equipment company, where he held key executive level leadership roles. Mr. Pappis holds a Bachelor of Science in Materials Science from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and an Executive MBA from Stanford University.

    About ACM Research, Inc.

    ACM develops, manufactures and sells semiconductor process equipment spanning cleaning, electroplating, stress-free polishing, vertical furnace processes, track, PECVD, and wafer- and panel-level packaging tools, enabling advanced and semi-critical semiconductor device manufacturing. ACM is committed to delivering customized, high-performance, cost-effective process solutions that semiconductor manufacturers can use in numerous manufacturing steps to improve productivity and product yield. For more information, visit www.acmr.com.

    © ACM Research, Inc. The ACM Research logo is a trademark of ACM Research, Inc. For convenience, this trademark appears in this press release without a ™ symbol, but that practice does not mean that ACM will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, its rights to such trademark.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In the United States: The Blueshirt Group
    Steven C. Pelayo, CFA
    +1 (360) 808-5154
    steven@blueshirtgroup.co
       
    In China: The Blueshirt Group Asia
    Gary Dvorchak, CFA
    gary@blueshirtgroup.co

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Aterian Reports Fourth Quarter & Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Introduces Annual Guidance for 2025
    Announces $3 Million Share Repurchase Program

    SUMMIT, N.J., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) (“Aterian” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled consumer products company, today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    “Aterian’s results for 2024 reflect our team’s success in executing a strategy to focus, stabilize, and simplify our operations in preparation for a resumption of growth and improved operating performance, ” said Arturo Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer.

    “Our decision to rationalize SKUs and focus on the Company’s six foundational brands generated material improvements in gross margin and contribution margin, and narrowed our losses significantly compared to 2023,” continued Mr. Rodriguez. “We improved our cash flow and working capital profile, reduced debt by more than $4.0 million, and right sized our inventory to focus on Aterian’s most profitable products. These initiatives created a momentum that we believe will carry into 2025. Despite tariffs, we are confident that in 2025, especially with our experienced and tenacious team, we will be able to generate higher revenues, achieve greater operating efficiency, and further improve our profit profile. Our growth will be driven by new product introductions beginning in the second quarter of 2025 and access to a broader base of consumers through our sales channel initiatives.”

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights
    All comparisons are to the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2023

    • Net revenue was $24.6 million compared to $32.8 million, primarily reflecting the previously announced SKU rationalization designed to focus on the Company’s most profitable products, lower liquidation levels of high-cost inventory, and initial contributions from new product introductions.
    • Gross margin improved to 63.4% from 51.0%, reflecting the success of the above-referenced SKU rationalization and improved inventory profile.
    • Contribution margin improved to 19.4% from (0.8%).
    • Operating loss narrowed to ($1.6) million from an operating loss of ($8.2) million. Fourth quarter 2024 operating loss included ($1.1) million of non-cash stock compensation, while fourth quarter 2023 operating loss included ($1.6) million of non-cash stock compensation, a non-cash loss on impairment of an intangible of ($0.3) million and a reserve for barter credits of ($0.3).
    • Net loss improved to ($1.3) million from ($7.7) million. Fourth quarter 2024 net loss included ($1.1) million of non-cash stock compensation and a gain on fair value of warrant liability of $0.2 million, while fourth quarter 2023 net loss included a reserve for barter credits of ($0.3) million, ($1.6) million of non-cash stock compensation, a non-cash loss on impairment of an intangible of ($0.3) million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA loss improved to ($0.1) million from a loss of ($5.6) million.
    • Total cash balance at December 31, 2024 was $18.0 million, up from $16.1 million at September 30, 2024.
    • Cash flow from operations improved to break-even from cash used in operations of ($4.9) million for the three months ended December 31, 2023.

    Full Year 2024 Highlights
    All comparisons are to the full year ended December 31, 2023

    • Net revenue declined to $99.0 million from $142.6 million, reflecting the success of the SKU rationalization, improved inventory profile, and new product introductions.
    • Gross margin improved to 62.1% compared to 49.3% in 2023, primarily reflecting the success of the above-referenced SKU rationalization and improved inventory profile.
    • Contribution margin rose to 17.1% from 1.2% in 2023.
    • Operating loss improved to ($11.8) million from ($76.2) million in 2023. Full year 2024 operating loss included ($7.5) million of non-cash stock compensation, and restructuring costs of ($0.6) million, while full year 2023 operating loss included ($8.3) million of non-cash stock compensation, a non-cash loss on impairment of intangibles of ($39.7) million, restructuring costs of ($1.6) million and a reserve for barter credits of ($0.3).
    • Net loss narrowed to ($11.9) million from ($74.6) million in 2023. Full year 2024 net loss includes ($7.5) million of non-cash stock compensation, restructuring costs of ($0.6) million, and a gain on fair value of warrant liability of $0.9 million, while full year 2023 net loss included ($8.3) million of non-cash stock compensation, a non-cash loss on impairment of intangibles of ($39.7) million, restructuring costs of ($1.6) million, a gain on fair value of warrant liability of $2.4 million, and a reserve on barter credits of ($0.3) million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA loss improved to ($2.1) million from a loss of ($22.3) million in 2023.
    • Total cash balance at December 31, 2024 was $18.0 million, down from $20.0 million at December 31, 2023.
    • Cash flow from operations improved to $2.2 million from cash used in operations of ($13.4) million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    2025 Outlook

    For fiscal year 2025, taking into account the current global environment and impact of recently announced tariffs, the Company believes that net revenue will be between $104 million and $106 million, an increase of between 5% and 7% from net revenue of $99.0 million 2024. When considering approximately $4 million of net sales in 2024 related to discontinued SKUs, net revenue in 2025 is expected to increase on a pro forma basis by 9% to 12%.

    The Company expects 2025 annual Adjusted EBITDA to be essentially break-even compared to an Adjusted EBITDA loss of $(2.1) million in 2024, reflecting the success of the Company’s business improvement initiatives, offset by the impacts of recently announced tariffs.

    Josh Feldman, Chief Financial Officer commented, “We continue to monitor the tariff situation and its potential impact on our operations and outlook. We have already taken steps that we believe will mitigate the negative effects of tariffs in 2025, and are prepared to take further action as necessary. With the support of an exceptional team, an inherent agility, and strong balance sheet, we remain confident in our ability to successfully and proactively navigate these challenges while remaining focused on long-term growth and profitability.”

    Share Repurchase Plan
    As announced earlier today, the Company’s Board of Directors has authorized a share repurchase program of up to $3.0 million of the Company’s common stock for a period of two years ending March 18, 2027.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    For more information on our non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP measures, please see the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section below. The most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA is net loss and we expect to report a net loss for the years ending December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2025 due primarily to our operating losses, which includes stock-based compensation expense, and interest expense. We are unable to reconcile the forward-looking statements of EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA in this press release to their nearest GAAP measures because the nearest GAAP financial measures are not accessible on a forward-looking basis and reconciling information is not available without unreasonable effort.

    Webcast and Conference Call Information
    Aterian will host a live conference call to discuss financial results today, March 18, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, which will be accessible by telephone and the internet. To access the call, participants from within the U.S. should dial (800) 715-9871 and participants from outside the U.S. should dial (646) 307-1963 and ask to be joined into the Aterian, Inc. call or use conference ID 3432648. Participants may also access the call through a live webcast at https://ir.aterian.io. The archived online replay will be available for a limited time after the call in the investors section of the Aterian corporate website.

    About Aterian, Inc.
    Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) is a technology-enabled consumer products company that builds and acquires leading e-commerce brands with top selling consumer products, in multiple categories, including home and kitchen appliances, health and wellness and air quality devices. The Company sells across the world’s largest online marketplaces with a focus on Amazon, Walmart and Target in the U.S. and on its own direct to consumer websites. Our primary brands include Squatty Potty, hOmeLabs, Mueller Living, Pursteam, Healing Solutions and Photo Paper Direct.

    Forward Looking Statements
    All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements including, in particular, the statements regarding our projected net revenue and adjusted EBITDA for 2025, our guidance for 2025 and the current global environment and inflation. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control and could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to, those related to our ability to continue as a going concern, our ability to meet financial covenants with our lenders, our ability to maintain and to grow market share in existing and new product categories; our ability to continue to profitably sell the SKUs we operate; our ability to maintain Amazon’s Prime badge on our seller accounts or reinstate the Prime badge in the event of any removal of such badge by Amazon; our ability to create operating leverage and efficiency when integrating companies that we acquire, including through the use of our team’s expertise, the economies of scale of our supply chain and automation driven by our platform; those related to our ability to grow internationally and through the launch of products under our brands and the acquisition of additional brands; those related to consumer demand, our cash flows, financial condition, forecasting and revenue growth rate; our supply chain including sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing and fulfillment; our ability to manage expenses, working capital and capital expenditures efficiently; our business model and our technology platform; our ability to disrupt the consumer products industry; our ability to generate profitability and stockholder value; international tariffs and trade measures; inventory management, product liability claims, recalls or other safety and regulatory concerns; reliance on third party online marketplaces; seasonal and quarterly variations in our revenue; acquisitions of other companies and technologies and our ability to integrate such companies and technologies with our business; our ability to continue to access debt and equity capital (including on terms advantageous to the Company) and the extent of our leverage; and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), all of which you may obtain for free on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, even if subsequently made available by us on our website or otherwise. We do not undertake any obligation to update, amend or clarify these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    Investor Contact:

    The Equity Group

    Devin Sullivan
    Managing Director
    dsullivan@equityny.com

    Conor Rodriguez
    Associate
    crodriguez@equityny.com

     
    ATERIAN, INC.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in thousands, except share and per share data)
     
        December 31,
    2023
      December 31,
    2024
    ASSETS        
    Current assets:        
    Cash   $ 20,023     $ 17,998  
    Accounts receivable, net     4,225       3,782  
    Inventory     20,390       13,749  
    Prepaid and other current assets     4,998       3,190  
    Total current assets     49,636       38,719  
    Property and equipment, net     775       685  
    Intangibles, net     11,320       9,757  
    Other non-current assets     138       381  
    Total assets   $ 61,869     $ 49,542  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
    Current liabilities:        
    Credit facility   $ 11,098     $ 6,948  
    Accounts payable     4,190       3,080  
    Seller notes     1,049       466  
    Accrued and other current liabilities     9,110       8,804  
    Total current liabilities     25,447       19,298  
    Other liabilities     391       227  
    Total liabilities     25,838       19,525  
    Commitments and contingencies        
    Stockholders’ equity:        
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized and 7,508,246 and 8,750,741 shares outstanding at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, respectively(*)     9       9  
    Additional paid-in capital     736,675       742,591  
    Accumulated deficit     (699,815 )     (711,677 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (838 )     (906 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     36,031       30,017  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 61,869     $ 49,542  

    (*) The number of shares and per share amounts have been retroactively restated to reflect the one for twelve (1 for 12) reverse stock split, which was effective on March 22, 2024. 

     
    ATERIAN, INC. 
    Consolidated Statements of Operations 
    (in thousands, except share and per share data)
     
        Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
        2023   2024   2023   2024
    Net revenue   $ 32,754     $ 24,607     $ 142,566     $ 99,045  
    Cost of goods sold     16,045       9,000       72,281       37,550  
    Gross profit     16,709       15,607       70,285       61,495  
    Operating expenses:                
    Sales and distribution     20,207       13,692       81,911       55,979  
    Research and development     808             4,616        
    General and administrative     3,654       3,527       20,220       17,339  
    Impairment loss on intangibles     283             39,728        
    Total operating expenses     24,952       17,219       146,475       73,318  
    Operating loss     (8,243 )     (1,612 )     (76,190 )     (11,823 )
    Interest expense, net     345       209       1,421       949  
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     (30 )     (194 )     (2,440 )     (924 )
    Other expense, net     158       (215 )     260       61  
    Loss before income taxes     (8,716 )     (1,412 )     (75,431 )     (11,909 )
    Benefit for income taxes     (1,009 )     (113 )     (867 )     (47 )
    Net loss   $ (7,707 )   $ (1,299 )   $ (74,564 )   $ (11,862 )
    Net loss per share, basic and diluted   $ (1.16 )   $ (0.18 )   $ (11.43 )   $ (1.68 )
    Weighted-average number of shares outstanding, basic and diluted(*)     6,622,540       7,343,880       6,524,589       7,069,404  

    (*) The number of shares and per share amounts have been retroactively restated to reflect the one-for-twelve (1-for-12) reverse stock split, which was effective on March 22, 2024.

     
    ATERIAN, INC. 
    Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 
    (in thousands, except share and per share data)
     
        Year Ended December 31,
        2023   2024
    OPERATING ACTIVITIES:        
    Net loss   $ (74,564 )   $ (11,862 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     3,886       1,689  
    (Recovery) provision for sales returns     (413 )     57  
    Amortization of deferred financing cost and debt discounts     429       198  
    Stock-based compensation     8,336       7,510  
    Change in deferred tax expense     (1,153 )     (5 )
    Change in inventory provisions     (3,149 )     (2,738 )
    Change in fair value of warrant liabilities     (2,440 )     (924 )
    Impairment loss on intangibles     39,728        
    Provision for barter credits     323        
    Allowance for credit losses     85       16  
    Changes in assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable     205       427  
    Inventory     26,426       9,378  
    Prepaid and other current assets     2,597       762  
    Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities     (13,684 )     (2,343 )
    Cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (13,388 )     2,165  
    INVESTING ACTIVITIES:        
    Purchase of fixed assets     (119 )     (42 )
    Purchase of Step and Go assets     (125 )      
    Purchase of minority equity investment           (200 )
    Cash used in investing activities     (244 )     (242 )
    FINANCING ACTIVITIES:        
    Repayments on seller notes     (668 )     (633 )
    Borrowings from MidCap credit facilities     79,806       60,866  
    Repayments for MidCap credit facilities     (90,190 )     (65,165 )
    Insurance obligation payments     (1,042 )     (682 )
    Insurance financing proceeds     986       700  
    Cash used in financing activities     (11,108 )     (4,914 )
    Foreign currency effect on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash     306       (61 )
    Net change in cash and restricted cash for the year     (24,434 )     (3,052 )
    Cash and restricted cash at beginning of year     46,629       22,195  
    Cash and restricted cash at end of year   $ 22,195     $ 19,143  
    RECONCILIATION OF CASH AND RESTRICTED CASH:        
    Cash     20,023       17,998  
    Restricted cash—Prepaid and other current assets     2,043       1,015  
    Restricted cash—Other non-current assets     129       130  
    TOTAL CASH AND RESTRICTED CASH   $ 22,195     $ 19,143  
             
    SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION        
    Cash paid for interest   $ 1,718     $ 1,141  
    Cash paid for taxes   $ 94     $ 152  
    NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:        
    Non-cash consideration paid to contractors   $ 321     $ 620  
    Non-cash minority equity investment   $     $ 50  

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    We believe that our financial statements and the other financial data included in this press release have been prepared in a manner that complies, in all material respects, with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. (“GAAP”). However, for the reasons discussed below, we have presented certain non-GAAP measures herein.

    We have presented the following non-GAAP measures to assist investors in understanding our core net operating results on an on-going basis: (i) Contribution Margin; (ii) Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue; (iii) EBITDA (iv) Adjusted EBITDA; and (v) Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue. These non-GAAP financial measures may also assist investors in making comparisons of our core operating results with those of other companies.

    As used herein, Contribution margin represents gross profit less amortization of inventory step-up from acquisitions (included in cost of goods sold), reserve on barter credits and e-commerce platform commissions, online advertising, selling and logistics expenses (included in sales and distribution expenses). As used herein, Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue represents Contribution margin divided by net revenue. As used herein, EBITDA represents net loss plus depreciation and amortization, interest expense, net and provision for income taxes. As used herein, Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA plus stock-based compensation expense, changes in fair-market value of warrant liability, impairment on intangibles, restructuring expenses, reserve on barter credits, and other expenses, net. As used herein, Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue represents Adjusted EBITDA divided by net revenue. Contribution margin, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not represent and should not be considered as alternatives to loss from operations or net loss, as determined under GAAP.

    We present Contribution margin and Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue, as we believe each of these measures provides an additional metric to evaluate our operations and, when considered with both our GAAP results and the reconciliation to gross profit, provides useful supplemental information for investors. Specifically, Contribution margin and Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue are two of our key metrics in running our business. All product decisions made by us, from the approval of launching a new product and to the liquidation of a product at the end of its life cycle, are measured primarily from Contribution margin and/or Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue. Further, we believe these measures provide improved transparency to our stockholders to determine the performance of our products prior to fixed costs as opposed to referencing gross profit alone.

    In the reconciliation to calculate contribution margin, we add e-commerce platform commissions, online advertising, selling and logistics expenses (“sales and distribution variable expense”), and the reserve for barter credits to gross profit to inform users of our financial statements of what our product profitability is at each period prior to fixed costs (such as sales and distribution expenses such as salaries as well as research and development expenses and general administrative expenses). By excluding these fixed costs, we believe this allows users of our financial statements to understand our products performance and allows them to measure our products performance over time.

    We present EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue because we believe each of these measures provides an additional metric to evaluate our operations and, when considered with both our GAAP results and the reconciliation to net loss, provide useful supplemental information for investors. We use these measures with financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, such as sales and gross margins, to assess our historical and prospective operating performance, to provide meaningful comparisons of operating performance across periods, to enhance our understanding of our operating performance and to compare our performance to that of our peers and competitors. We believe EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue are useful to investors in assessing the operating performance of our business without the effect of non-cash items.

    Contribution margin, Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue should not be considered in isolation or as alternatives to net loss, loss from operations or any other measure of financial performance calculated and prescribed in accordance with GAAP. Neither EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA or Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue should be considered a measure of discretionary cash available to us to invest in the growth of our business. Our Contribution margin, Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue may not be comparable to similar titled measures in other organizations because other organizations may not calculate Contribution margin, Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA or Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue in the same manner as we do. Our presentation of Contribution margin and Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by the expenses that are excluded from such terms or by unusual or non-recurring items.

    We recognize that EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue, have limitations as analytical financial measures. For example, neither EBITDA nor Adjusted EBITDA reflects:

    • our capital expenditures or future requirements for capital expenditures or mergers and acquisitions;
    • the interest expense or the cash requirements necessary to service interest expense or principal payments, associated with indebtedness;
    • depreciation and amortization, which are non-cash charges, although the assets being depreciated and amortized will likely have to be replaced in the future, or any cash requirements for the replacement of assets;
    • changes in cash requirements for our working capital needs; or
    • changes in fair value of warrant liabilities

    Additionally, Adjusted EBITDA excludes non-cash expense for stock-based compensation, which is and is expected to remain a key element of our overall long-term incentive compensation package.

    We also recognize that Contribution margin and Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue have limitations as analytical financial measures. For example, Contribution margin does not reflect:

    • general and administrative expense necessary to operate our business;
    • research and development expenses necessary for the development, operation and support of our software platform;
    • the fixed costs portion of our sales and distribution expenses including stock-based compensation expense; or
    • changes in fair value warrant liabilities

    Contribution Margin

    The following table provides a reconciliation of Contribution margin to gross profit and Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue to gross profit as a percentage of net revenue, which are the most directly comparable financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP.

        Three Months Ended December 31,   Year Ended
    December 31.
     
        2023   2024   2023   2024  
        (in thousands, except percentages)  
    Gross Profit   $ 16,709     $ 15,607     $ 70,285     $ 61,495    
    Less:                  
    Reserve on barter credits     323             323          
    E-commerce platform commissions, online advertising, selling and logistics expenses     (17,293 )     (10,844 )     (68,864 )     (44,553 )  
    Contribution margin   $ (261 )   $ 4,763     $ 1,744     $ 16,942    
    Gross Profit as a percentage of net revenue     51.0   %   63.4   %   49.3   %   62.1   %
    Contribution margin as a percentage of net revenue     (0.8 ) %   19.4   %   1.2   %   17.1   %

    Adjusted EBITDA

        Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
     
        2023   2024   2023   2024  
        (in thousands, except percentages)  
    Net loss   $ (7,707 )   $ (1,299 )   $ (74,564 )   $ (11,862 )  
    Add:                  
    Benefit for income taxes     (1,009 )     (113 )     (867 )     (47 )  
    Interest expense, net     345       209       1,421       949    
    Depreciation and amortization     469       410       3,886       1,689    
    EBITDA     (7,902 )     (793 )     (70,124 )     (9,271 )  
    Other expense, net     158       (215 )     260       61    
    Impairment loss on intangibles     283             39,728          
    Change in fair market value of warrant liabilities     (30 )     (194 )     (2,440 )     (924 )  
    Reserve on barter credits     323             323          
    Restructuring expense                 1,633       565    
    Stock-based compensation expense     1,564       1,116       8,336       7,510    
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ (5,604 )   $ (86 )   $ (22,284 )   $ (2,059 )  
    Net loss as a percentage of net revenue     (23.5 ) %   (5.3 ) %   (52.3 ) %   (12.0 ) %
    Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue     (17.1 ) %   (0.3 ) %   (15.6 ) %   (2.1 ) %

    Each of our products typically goes through the Launch phase and depending on its level of success is moved to one of the other phases as further described below:

    i.        Launch phase: During this phase, we leverage our technology to target opportunities identified using AIMEE (Artificial Intelligence Marketplace e-Commerce Engine) and other sources. This phase also includes revenue from new product variations and relaunches. During this period of time, due to the combination of discounts and investment in marketing, our net margin for a product could be as low as approximately negative 35%. Net margin is calculated by taking net revenue less the cost of goods sold, less fulfillment, online advertising and selling expenses. These primarily reflect the estimated variable costs related to the sale of a product.

    ii        Sustain phase: Our goal is for every product we launch to enter the sustain phase and become profitable, with a target of positive 15% net margin for most products, within approximately three months of launch on average. Net margin primarily reflects a combination of manual and automated adjustments in price and marketing spend.

    iii.        Liquidate phase: If a product does not enter the sustain phase or if the customer satisfaction of the product (i.e., ratings) is not satisfactory, then it will go to the liquidate phase and we will sell through the remaining inventory. Products can also be liquidated as part of inventory normalization especially when steep discounts are required.

    The following tables break out our fourth quarter and full year 2023 and 2024 results of operations by our product phases (in thousands):

      Three months ended December 31, 2023
      Sustain Launch Liquidation/
    Other
    Fixed Costs Stock Based
    Compensation
    Total
    Net revenue $ 25,175 $ 390 $ 7,189 $ $ $ 32,754
    Cost of goods sold   10,457   114   5,474       16,045
    Gross profit   14,718   276   1,715       16,709
    Operating expenses:            
    Sales and distribution expenses   12,973   263   4,056   2,567   348   20,207
    Research and development         528   280   808
    General and administrative         2,717   937   3,654
    Impairment loss on intangibles         283     283
                 
      Three months ended December 31, 2024
      Sustain Launch Liquidation/
    Other
    Fixed Costs Stock Based
    Compensation
    Total
    Net revenue $ 23,332 $ 347 $ 928 $ $ $ 24,607
    Cost of goods sold   8,536   143   321       9,000
    Gross profit   14,796   204   607       15,607
    Operating expenses:            
    Sales and distribution expenses   9,965   309   570   2,767   81   13,692
    General and administrative         2,492   1,035   3,527
                 
      Year-ended December 31, 2023
      Sustain Launch Liquidation/
    Other
    Fixed Costs Stock Based
    Compensation
    Total
    Net revenue $ 114,919 $ 959 $ 26,688 $ $ $ 142,566
    Cost of goods sold   53,139   455   18,687       72,281
    Gross profit   61,780   504   8,001       70,285
    Operating expenses:            
    Sales and distribution expenses   53,442   603   14,820   10,607   2,439   81,911
    Research and development         3,202   1,414   4,616
    General and administrative         15,737   4,483   20,220
    Impairment loss on intangibles         39,728     39,728
                 
      Year-ended December 31, 2024
      Sustain Launch Liquidation/
    Other
    Fixed Costs Stock Based
    Compensation
    Total
    Net revenue $ 92,542 $ 1,829 $ 4,674 $ $ $ 99,045
    Cost of goods sold   35,012   651   1,887       37,550
    Gross profit   57,530   1,178   2,787       61,495
    Operating expenses:            
    Sales and distribution expenses   40,353   1,087   3,113   9,643   1,783   55,979
    General and administrative         11,612   5,727   17,339

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: HUMBL, Inc. Secures $500,000 in Strategic Investment From Quail Hollow Capital, LLC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Diego, CA, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HUMBL, Inc. (OTC: HMBL) (the “Company”) is pleased to announce a strategic investment from Quail Hollow Capital, LLC, marking a key step in the Company’s efforts to strengthen its financial position and drive future growth.

    Quail Hollow Capital has invested $500,000 in the Company through the purchase of a Convertible Promissory Note, providing capital to support key business initiatives and operations. 

    This investment reflects strong confidence in the Company’s strategic direction as it continues to expand its holding company activities in the North American and Latin American markets.

    “Quail Hollow’s investment will support critical public company operating costs, including audits, accounting, legal, and compliance,” said Thiago Moura, CEO of HUMBL, Inc. “Additionally, this capital allows for strategic growth and sales expansion between our North American and Latin American operations.”

    The Company has significantly lowered its burn rate, reduced debt and remains highly focused on driving revenues, achieving profitability, and uplisting to a senior exchange. The Company is committed to responsible financial management and long-term shareholder value creation.

    About HUMBL, Inc.

    HUMBL, Inc. has transformed into a strategic holding company, operating with a business model centered on high-value joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, and sales distribution agreements. 

    The company is focused on bridging North American and Latin American markets, leveraging its access to physical assets and distribution networks to create immediate economic opportunities.

    Following the divestiture of its technology assets, HUMBL, Inc. has shifted to a shareholder value-driven approach under the leadership of CEO Thiago Moura, principal of Ybyra Capital, a Brazilian holding company with diversified investments in real estate, commodities and mining. 

    By leveraging Ybyra Capital’s established presence in Latin America, HUMBL, Inc. is uniquely positioned to provide strategic partners with direct market access and growth opportunities.

    About Quail Hollow Capital, LLC

    Quail Hollow Capital is a Texas-based investment firm specializing in strategic growth investments across various industries. The firm partners with high-potential companies to provide capital and expertise that drive long-term value creation.

    HUMBL, Inc. (OTC: HMBL)
    Investor Relations: ir@humbl.com
    Media Contact: media@humbl.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Waldencast Reports Q4 2024 and Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q4 Net Revenue of $72.1 million, 29.4% Comparable Net Revenue Growth and $11.2 million of Adjusted EBITDA, doubling from Q4 2023

    FY 2024 Net Revenue of $273.9 million, 27.5% Comparable Net Revenue Growth and $40.3 million of Adjusted EBITDA

    Obagi Medical is the fastest growing professional skincare brand1 in the US in 2024

    Milk Makeup expands its distribution to Ulta Beauty

    Waldencast secures a new $205 million credit facility, replacing the current one, enhancing flexibility and extending debt maturity

    LONDON, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Waldencast plc (NASDAQ: WALD) (“Waldencast” or the “Company”), a global multi-brand beauty and wellness platform, today reported operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2024 (“Q4 2024”) and the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Year Ended 2024”) on Form 6-K to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which are also available on our investor relations site at http://ir.waldencast.com/.

    Michel Brousset, Waldencast Founder and CEO, said: “We closed a transformative year for the Group, achieving outstanding growth, expanding our brands’ communities, and making significant progress on our strategic priorities. Our business model is driven by a powerful flywheel effect of growth and profitability. This begins with the unique strength of our brands, which is amplified by our ability to enhance operational efficiency. As a result, we can effectively increase investments in sales and marketing to drive profitable growth. In 2024, we achieved a 27.5% increase in Comparable Net Revenue and a 65.1% rise in Adjusted EBITDA, demonstrating our proven ability to expand gross margins and optimize our cost base as we grow.”

    “Our proven ability to innovate significantly contributed to our brands’ growth. This year, Milk Makeup introduced several exciting new products, including the viral and award-winning Cooling Water Jelly Tint Blush + Lip Stain. Obagi Medical also launched a range of successful innovations aimed at both consumers and the professional skincare medical community, most notably the ELASTIderm Lift Up & Sculpt Facial Moisturizer and Elastiderm Advanced Filler Concentrate.”

    “Building on our momentum, we are excited to announce that Milk Makeup will launch in over 600 Ulta Beauty locations this spring, further highlighting the growing demand for our cult-favorite brand. Additionally, Obagi Medical expanded the Suzan Obagi MD® collection with groundbreaking new products, including the Super Antioxidant Serum and the Moisture Restore Hydration Replenishing Cream.”

    ____________________________________

    1 Among the top 10 brands. Kline & Company. (2024). 2024 Kline Professional Skincare: United States market analysis and opportunities.

    “Overall, we are excited about the year ahead and expect another year of significant milestones toward achieving our ambition to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness multi-brand platform by creating, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling the next generation of high-growth, purpose-driven brands,” concluded Mr. Brousset.

    Q4 2024 Results Overview

    Please refer to the definitions and reconciliations set out further in this release with respect to certain adjusted non-GAAP measures discussed below which are included to provide an easier understanding of the underlying performance of the business, but should not be seen as a substitute for the U.S. GAAP numbers presented in this release.

    For the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2023:

    Net Revenue increased 30.8% to $72.1 million, a 29.4% increase in Comparable Net Revenue Growth that was attributable to Milk Makeup channel expansion, Obagi Medical accelerated growth in the Physician Dispense channel, and continued success in Obagi Medical e-commerce channels.

    Gross Profit was $49.4 million. Adjusted Gross Profit was $52.6 million, or 73.0% of net revenue, compared to $40.3 million in Q4 2023.

    Net Loss improved from $32.7 million in Q4 2023 to $22.6 million in Q4 2024, driven by operational growth and a reduction in non-recurring costs associated with the restatement and SEC investigation.

    Adjusted EBITDA doubled to $11.2 million (15.5% of net revenue), reflecting a 530 basis point expansion from Q4 2023. This growth was driven by strong top-line performance and operational leverage, as both Obagi Medical and Milk Makeup continued to scale and reinvest in business drivers while maintaining G&A discipline.

    Liquidity: The business maintained strong cash conversion in Q4 2024, driven by effective working capital management and minimal capital expenditure thanks to our asset-light business model. While the Company continues to incur significant non-recurring legal and advisory costs, the level of expenditures has been gradually reducing. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $14.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and $154.2 million of Net Debt.

    New Credit Facility: Waldencast has entered into a new $205 million five-year credit facility, comprising a $175 million Term Loan and a $30 million RCF, that replaces its existing facility. This agreement supports the Company’s strategic priorities by enhancing financial flexibility and extending its debt maturity profile well ahead of the current facilities expiration in July 2026.

    Outstanding Shares: As of February 28, 2025, we had 122,720,911 ordinary shares outstanding, consisting of 112,054,383 Class A shares and 10,666,528 Class B shares. As of December 31, 2024, we had 122,692,968 ordinary shares outstanding, consisting of 112,026,440 Class A shares and 10,666,528 Class B shares.

    (In $ millions, except for percentages)   Q4 2024   % Sales   % Growth   % Comparable
    Net Revenue
    Growth
        Q4 2023   % Sales
    Waldencast                          
    Net Revenue   72.1   100.0%   30.8%   29.4%     55.1   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   52.6   73.0%   30.7%         40.3   73.1%
    Adjusted EBITDA   11.2   15.5%   99.3%         5.6   10.2%
                               
    Obagi Medical                          
    Net Revenue   42.2   100.0%   30.0%   27.7%     32.5   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   33.2   78.7%   28.0%         26.0   80.0%
    Adjusted EBITDA   9.8   23.3%   23.7%         8.0   24.5%
                               
    Milk Makeup                          
    Net Revenue   29.9   100.0%   31.9%         22.6   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   19.4   64.9%   35.6%         14.3   63.1%
    Adjusted EBITDA   4.8   16.1%   248.0%         1.4   6.1%
     

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Brand Highlights:

    Obagi Medical:

    • Net Revenue reached $42.2 million, from $32.5 million in Q4 2023 with Comparable Net Revenue Growth of 27.7%.
    • Obagi Medical’s strong net revenue growth continued to be driven by increased brand awareness, stronger selling and marketing investments, and continued innovation. The brand continued expanding its international footprint and growing e-commerce sales through its direct website and the move to a first party model with its main e-commerce distributor, implemented in late 2023, with benefits tapering off by Q1 2025.
    • Notably, Obagi Medical was the fastest-growing professional skin care brand among the top 10 in the US in 20241. This historic achievement underscores the strength of our enhanced go-to-market strategy which successfully balances growth in the Physician Dispense channel, our historic stronghold, with the acceleration of our digital channels.
    • Adjusted Gross Margin of 78.7% contracted 130 basis points from Q4 2023 due to a higher weight of inventory liquidations.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $9.8 million, an increase of 23.7% from Q4 2023 with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 23.3%, a decline of 120 basis points from Q4 2023 reflecting the brands continued strategic investment in marketing to drive top-line growth and improved leverage of fixed costs.

    Milk Makeup:

    • Net Revenue reached $29.9 million, up 31.9% from $22.6 million in Q4 2023.
    • Milk Makeup’s Q4 2024 growth reflected the initial shipments to Ulta Beauty in support of the brand’s spring 2025 launch along with increased demand driven by our growing awareness, the continued delivery of sought-after innovation, and international expansion.
    • Adjusted Gross Margin increased by 180 basis points versus Q4 2023, primarily reflecting the positive impact of channel and product mix, as well as margin accretive innovation.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $4.8 million an increase of $3.4 million from Adjusted EBITDA of $1.4 million in Q4 2023. Adjusted EBITDA Margin improved 1,000 basis points to 16.1% versus 6.1% in Q4 2023 as robust sales growth and gross margin expansion drove significant operational leverage despite increased brand investment.

    Year Ended 2024 Results Overview

    For the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023:

    Net Revenue was $273.9 million, a 27.5% increase in Comparable Net Revenue Growth.

    Gross Profit was $191.7 million. Adjusted Gross Profit was $203.6 million, or 74.3% of net revenue, a margin improvement of 530 basis points versus 2023.

    Net Loss was $48.6 million, down from $106.0 million in the Year Ended 2023. The improvement was primarily driven by strong operational growth in the business, a fair value adjustment of the warrants, and reduced non-recurring costs.

    Adjusted EBITDA was $40.3 million, an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 14.7%, compared to 11.2% in the Year Ended 2023.

    Fiscal 2025 Outlook:

    We expect to deliver mid-teens Net Revenue growth and further expansion of Adjusted EBITDA Margin into the mid-to-high teens.

    Net revenue growth is expected to accelerate throughout the year, starting with relatively flat growth in Q1 due to the anniversary of the highly successful Milk Makeup “Jellies” launch from Q1 2024, as well as inventory adjustment in some of our retail partners.

    Growth is expected to accelerate progressively in the following quarters, driven by our innovation pipeline and the continued expansion of our distribution footprint in the U.S. and internationally, including the launch of Milk Makeup at Ulta Beauty in March 2025.

    Year Ended 2024 Highlights

    (In $ millions, except for percentages)   Year
    Ended
    2024
      % Sales   % Growth   % Comparable
    Net Revenue
    Growth
        Year
    Ended
    2023
      % Sales
    Waldencast                          
    Net Revenue   273.9   100.0%   25.5%   27.5%     218.1   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   203.6   74.3%   35.3%         150.4   69.0%
    Adjusted EBITDA   40.3   14.7%   65.1%         24.4   11.2%
                               
    Obagi Medical                          
    Net Revenue   149.3   100.0%   26.9%   30.7%     117.7   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   118.6   79.4%   41.6%         83.7   71.2%
    Adjusted EBITDA   30.5   20.4%   46.4%         20.8   17.7%
                               
    Milk Makeup                          
    Net Revenue   124.6   100.0%   24.0%         100.5   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   85.0   68.2%   27.4%         66.7   66.4%
    Adjusted EBITDA   29.1   23.3%   58.0%         18.4   18.3%
     

    Conference Call and Webcast Information

    Waldencast will host a conference call to discuss its year-end and fourth quarter results on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 8:30 AM EDT for the period ended December 31, 2024. Those interested in participating in the conference call are invited to dial (877) 704-4453. International callers may dial (201) 389-0920. A live webcast of the conference call will include a slide presentation and will be available online at https://ir.waldencast.com/. A replay of the webcast will remain available on the website until our next conference call. The information accessible on, or through, our website is not incorporated by reference into this release.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to the financial measures presented in this release in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Waldencast separately reports financial results on the basis of the measures set out and defined below which are non-GAAP financial measures. Waldencast believes the non-GAAP measures used in this release provide useful information to management and investors regarding certain financial and business trends relating to its financial condition and results of operations. Waldencast believes that the use of these non-GAAP financial measures provides an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends. These non-GAAP measures also provide perspective on how Waldencast’s management evaluates and monitors the performance of the business.

    There are limitations to non-GAAP financial measures because they exclude charges and credits that are required to be included in GAAP financial presentation. The items excluded from GAAP financial measures such as net income/loss to arrive at non-GAAP financial measures are significant components for understanding and assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered together with, and not alternatives to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    Please refer to definitions set out in the release and the tables included in this release for a reconciliation of these metrics to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

    Comparable Net Revenue is defined as Net Revenue excluding sales related to the former Obagi Medical China business (the “Obagi Medical China Business”), which was not acquired by Waldencast at the time of the business combination with Obagi Medical and Milk Makeup (the “Business Combination”) as was presented in previous earnings releases. The sales to the Obagi Medical China Business have a below market sales price for a defined period of time after the acquisition of Obagi Medical pursuant to the Business Combination. As a result of the Business Combination, a below market contract liability was recognized and is amortized based on sales. This adjustment is shown in the Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit reconciliations. Management of the Company believes that this non-GAAP measure provides perspective on how Waldencast’s management evaluates and monitors the performance of the business. See reconciliation to U.S. GAAP Net Revenue in the Appendix.

    Comparable Net Revenue Growth is defined as the growth in Comparable Net Revenue period over period expressed as a percentage.

    Adjusted Gross Profit is defined as GAAP gross profit excluding the impact of inventory fair value adjustments, amortization of the supply agreement and formulation intangible assets, discontinued product write-off, and the amortization of the fair value of the related party liability from the Obagi Medical China Business. The Adjusted Gross Profit reconciliation by Segment for each period is included in the Appendix.

    Adjusted Gross Margin is defined as Adjusted Gross Profit divided by GAAP Net Revenue.

    Adjusted EBITDA is defined as GAAP net income (loss) before interest income or expense, income tax (benefit) expense, depreciation and amortization, and further adjusted for the items as described in the reconciliation below. We believe this information will be useful for investors to facilitate comparisons of our operating performance and better identify trends in our business. Adjusted EBITDA excludes certain expenses that are required to be presented in accordance with GAAP because management believes they are non-core to our regular business. These include non-cash expenses, such as depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, inventory fair value adjustments, the amortization and release of fair value of the related party liability to the Obagi Medical China Business, change in fair value of financial instruments, loss on impairment of goodwill and leases, and foreign currency translation loss (gain). In addition, adjustments include expenses that are not related to our underlying business performance including (1) legal, advisory and consultant fees related to the financial restatement of previously issued financial statements and associated regulatory investigation, and the Business Combination; (2) costs to recover and the value of the inventory recovered from the acquisition of the SA distributor, and the associated discontinued products; and (3) other non-recurring costs, primarily legal settlement costs and restructuring costs. The Adjusted EBITDA by Segment for each period is included in the Appendix.

    Adjusted EBITDA Margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue. The Adjusted EBITDA Margin reconciliation by Segment for each period is included in the Appendix.

    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Loss   $ (22,597 )   $ (32,731 )   $ (48,648 )   $ (105,968 )
    Adjusted For:                
    Depreciation and amortization     15,013       14,863       60,015       60,498  
    Interest expense, net     4,088       4,276       17,155       18,888  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     4,113       (976 )     110       (6,975 )
    Stock-based compensation expense     2,993       1,677       9,392       9,235  
    Legal and advisory non-recurring costs(1)     3,029       12,949       21,493       32,783  
    Change in fair value of warrants and interest rate collar     443       2,473       (23,679 )     10,443  
    Amortization and release of related party liability(2)     (4,169 )           (5,678 )     (4,058 )
    Loss on impairment of goodwill     5,031             5,031        
    Other costs(3)     3,241       3,083       5,093       9,549  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 11,185     $ 5,613     $ 40,284     $ 24,395  
    Net Revenue   $ 72,083     $ 55,117     $ 273,868     $ 218,138  
    Net Loss % of Net Revenue     (31.3 )%     (59.4 )%     (17.8 )%     (48.6 )%
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     15.5 %     10.2 %     14.7 %     11.2 %
     
    (1) Includes mainly legal, advisory and consultant fees related to the financial restatement 2020-2022 periods and associated regulatory investigation, and the Business Combination.
    (2) Relates to the fair value of the related party liability for the unfavorable discount to the Obagi Medical China Business as part of the Business Combination.
    (3) Other costs include legal settlements, foreign currency translation losses, product discontinuation costs related to advanced purchases for the SA Distributor, the write-down and subsequent recovery of inventory from the SA Distributor, restructuring costs, amortization of the fair value step-up as a result of the business combination, lease impairments, restructuring and contract termination fees.
       

    Net Debt Position is defined as the principal outstanding for the 2022 Term Loan and 2022 Revolving Credit Facility minus the cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024.

    (In thousands)   Reconciliation of
    Net Carrying
    Amount of debt to
    Net Debt
    Current portion of long-term debt   $ 29,479  
    Long-term debt     137,137  
    Net carrying amount of debt     166,616  
    Adjustments:    
    Add: Unamortized debt issuance costs     2,339  
    Less: Cash & cash equivalents     (14,802 )
    Net Debt   $ 154,153  
             

    About Waldencast plc

    Founded by Michel Brousset and Hind Sebti, Waldencast’s ambition is to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness operating platform by developing, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling conscious, high-growth purpose-driven brands. Waldencast’s vision is fundamentally underpinned by its brand-led business model that ensures proximity to its customers, business agility, and market responsiveness, while maintaining each brand’s distinct DNA. The first step in realizing its vision was the Business Combination. As part of the Waldencast platform, its brands will benefit from the operational scale of a multi-brand platform; the expertise in managing global beauty brands at scale; a balanced portfolio to mitigate category fluctuations; asset light efficiency; and the market responsiveness and speed of entrepreneurial indie brands. For more information please visit: https://ir.waldencast.com.

    Obagi Medical is an industry-leading, advanced skin care line rooted in research and skin biology, refined with a legacy of over 35 years’ experience. First known as leaders in the treatment of hyperpigmentation with the Obagi Nu-Derm® System, Obagi Medical products are designed to address the appearance of premature aging, photodamage, skin discoloration, acne, and sun damage. More information about Obagi Medical is available on the brand’s website at www.obagi.com.

    Founded in 2016, Milk Makeup quickly became a cult-favorite among the beauty community for its values of self-expression and inclusion, captured by its signature “Live Your Look”, its innovative formulas, and clean ingredients. The brand creates vegan, cruelty-free, clean formulas and has its Milk Makeup HQ in Downtown NYC. Currently, Milk Makeup offers over 250 products through its U.S. website www.MilkMakeup.com, and retail partners including Sephora globally, Ulta Beauty in the U.S., Lyko in Scandinavia, Space NK and Boots in the United Kingdom and many more.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this release that are not historical, are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about: Waldencast’s outlook and guidance for 2025; our ability to deliver financial results in line with expectations; expectations regarding sales, earnings or other future financial performance and liquidity or other performance measures; our long-term strategy and future operations or operating results; expectations with respect to our industry and the markets in which it operates; future product introductions; developments relating to the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings; and any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” and “will” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: (i) the impact of the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, including associated investigations, our efforts to remediate such material weakness and the timing of remediation and resolution of associated investigations; (ii) our ability to recognize the anticipated benefits from any acquired business, including the Business Combination; (iii) our ability to successfully implement our management’s plans and strategies; (iv) the overall economic and market conditions, sales forecasts and other information about our possible or assumed future results of operations or our performance; (v) the general impact of geopolitical events, including the impact of current wars, conflicts or other hostilities; (vi) the potential for delisting, legal proceedings or existing or new government investigation or enforcement actions, including those relating to the restatement or the subject of the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors’ review further described in our annual report filed on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022, (vii) our ability to manage expenses, our liquidity and our investments in working capital; (viii) any failure to obtain governmental and regulatory approvals related to our business and products; (ix) the impact of any international trade or foreign exchange restrictions, increased tariffs, foreign currency exchange fluctuations; (x) our ability to raise additional capital or complete desired acquisitions; (xi) our ability to comply with financial covenants imposed by the new 2025 credit agreement we entered into referenced in the section entitled “New Credit Facility” above and the impact of debt service obligations and restricted debt covenants; (xii) volatility of Waldencast’s securities due to a variety of factors, including Waldencast’s inability to implement its business plans or meet or exceed its financial projections and changes; (xiii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and identify and realize additional opportunities; (xiv) the ability of Waldencast to implement its strategic initiatives and continue to innovate Obagi Medical’s and Milk Makeup’s existing products and anticipate and respond to market trends and changes in consumer preferences, (xv) any shifts in the preferences of consumers as to where and how they shop; (xvi) the impact of any unfavorable publicity on our business or products; (xvii) changes in future exchange or interest rates or credit ratings; (xviii) changes in, and uncertainty with respect to, laws, regulations, and policies, including as a result of the change in the U.S. administration; and (xix) social, political and economic conditions. These and other risks, assumptions and uncertainties are more fully described in the Risk Factors section of our 2023 20-F (File No. 01-40207), filed with the SEC on April 30, 2024, and in our other documents that we file or furnish with the SEC, which you are encouraged to read.

    Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Waldencast expressly disclaims any current intention, and assumes no duty, to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the distribution of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

    Contacts:

    Investors
    ICR
    Allison Malkin
    waldencastir@icrinc.com

    Media
    ICR
    Brittney Fraser/Alecia Pulman
    waldencast@icrinc.com

    Appendix

    Comparable Net Revenue Growth

        Group   Obagi Medical
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Revenue   $ 72,083     $ 55,117   $ 273,868     $ 218,138   $ 42,211     $ 32,470   $ 149,266     $ 117,651
    Obagi Medical China Business     735           2,804       5,619     735           2,804       5,619
    Comparable Net Revenue   $ 71,348     $ 55,117   $ 271,064     $ 212,519   $ 41,476     $ 32,470   $ 146,462     $ 112,032
    Comparable Growth     29.4 %         27.5 %         27.7 %         30.7 %    
                                                     

    Adjusted Gross Profit

        Group
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Revenue   $ 72,083     $ 55,117     $ 273,868     $ 218,138  
    Gross Profit     49,450       37,476       191,744       141,577  
    Gross Profit Margin     68.6 %     68.0 %     70.0 %     64.9 %
    Gross Margin Adjustments:                
    Amortization of the fair value of the related party liability(1)     (750 )           (2,260 )     (4,058 )
    Amortization of the inventory fair value adjustment(2)                       1,691  
    Discontinued product write-off(3)     1,139             2,864        
    Amortization impact of intangible assets(4)     2,801       2,801       11,205       11,205  
    Adjusted Gross Profit   $ 52,639     $ 40,277     $ 203,553     $ 150,415  
    Adjusted Gross Margin %     73.0 %     73.1 %     74.3 %     69.0 %
                                     

     

    (1) Relates to the fair value of the related party liability for the unfavorable discount to the Obagi Medical China Business as part of the Business Combination.
    (2) Relates to the amortization of the inventory fair value step-up as a result of the Business Combination.
    (3) Relates to the advance purchase of specific products for the market in Vietnam sold through the SA Distributor that became obsolete when the distribution contract was terminated.
    (4) The Supply Agreement and Formulations intangible assets are amortized to cost of goods sold.
       
        Obagi Medical   Milk Makeup
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Revenue   $ 42,211     $ 32,470     $ 149,266     $ 117,651     $ 29,872     $ 22,647     $ 124,602     $ 100,487  
    Gross Profit     30,050       23,175       106,760       76,582       19,395       14,301       84,984       64,995  
    Gross Profit Margin     71.2 %     71.4 %     71.5 %     65.1 %     64.9 %     63.1 %     68.2 %     64.7 %
    Gross Margin Adjustments:                                
    Amortization of the fair value of the related party liability     (750 )           (2,260 )     (4,058 )                        
    Amortization of the inventory fair value adjustment                                               1,691  
    Discontinued product write-off     1,139             2,864                                
    Amortization impact of intangible assets     2,801       2,801       11,205       11,205                          
    Adjusted Gross Profit   $ 33,239     $ 25,976     $ 118,569     $ 83,729     $ 19,395     $ 14,301     $ 84,984     $ 66,686  
    Adjusted Gross Margin %     78.7 %     80.0 %     79.4 %     71.2 %     64.9 %     63.1 %     68.2 %     66.4 %
                                                                     

    Adjusted EBITDA Margin by Segment

        Obagi Medical   Milk Makeup
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Loss   $ (12,114 )   $ (8,305 )   $ (31,524 )   $ (32,214 )   $ 230     $ (3,959 )   $ 8,803     $ (5,655 )
    Adjusted For:                                
    Depreciation and amortization     10,397       10,425       41,591       41,984       4,616       4,457       18,424       18,514  
    Interest expense, net     3,068       3,341       12,391       12,644       (3 )     4       (1 )     590  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     3,933       (990 )     (141 )     (6,997 )     25       9       32       10  
    Stock-based compensation expense     465       (317 )     (328 )     726       (338 )     444       1,167       2,352  
    Legal and advisory non-recurring costs     1,061       1,119       5,054       1,702                         27  
    Amortization and release of related party liability     (4,169 )           (5,678 )     (4,058 )                        
    Loss on impairment of goodwill     5,031             5,031                                
    Other costs     2,166       2,682       4,120       7,027       285       428       639       2,566  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 9,838     $ 7,956     $ 30,516     $ 20,814     $ 4,814     $ 1,383     $ 29,064     $ 18,404  
    Net Revenue   $ 42,211     $ 32,470     $ 149,266     $ 117,651     $ 29,872     $ 22,647     $ 124,602     $ 100,487  
    Net Loss % of Net Revenue     (28.7 )%     (25.6 )%     (21.1 )%     (27.4 )%     0.8 %     (17.5 )%     7.1 %     (5.6 )%
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     23.3 %     24.5 %     20.4 %     17.7 %     16.1 %     6.1 %     23.3 %     18.3 %
                                                                     
        Central costs
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2024
      Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Loss   $ (10,714 )   $ (20,467 )   $ (25,927 )   $ (68,099 )
    Adjusted For:                
    Depreciation and amortization           (20 )            
    Interest expense, net     1,024       931       4,765       5,654  
    Income tax expense     155       4       219       12  
    Stock-based compensation expense     2,866       1,549       8,553       6,157  
    Legal and advisory non-recurring costs     1,968       11,830       16,439       31,054  
    Change in fair value of warrants and interest rate collar     443       2,473       (23,679 )     10,443  
    Other costs     789       (26 )     334       (44 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ (3,468 )   $ (3,727 )   $ (19,296 )   $ (14,823 )
    Net Revenue   $     $     $     $  
    Net Loss % of Net Revenue     N/A       N/A       N/A       N/A  
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     N/A       N/A       N/A       N/A  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INITIATIVES UNDERTAKEN TO PROMOTE ORGANIC FARMING

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:08PM by PIB Delhi

    Government is promoting organic farming through the schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) in all the States/UTs and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) scheme is being implemented. Both the schemes stress on end-to-end support to farmers engaged in organic farming i.e. from production to post-harvest management training and capacity building. The main focus of the PKVY and MOVCDNER schemes is to promote natural resource based integrated and climate resilient sustainable farming systems that ensure maintenance and increase of soil fertility, natural  resource conservation, on-farm nutrient recycling and minimize dependence of farmers on external inputs.

    So far, 59.74 lakh ha area has been covered under organic farming since 2015-16. The State wise details of area covered under organic farming National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) (including MOVCDNER) + Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) under PKVY till 2023-2024 is given at Annexure-I.

    Under PKVY scheme, States/UTs are provided financial assistance of Rs. 31,500/ha in total in 3 years in the organic clusters out of which, Rs. 15,000/ha is provided directly to farmers through DBT for on-farm and off-farm organic inputs, Rs. 4,500/ha for marketing, packaging, branding, value addition etc., Rs. 3,000/ha for certification and residue analysis and Rs. 9,000/ha for training and capacity building. Under MOVCDNER scheme, assistance of Rs. 46,500/ha in total in 3 years is provided for creation of Farmers Producer Organizations, support to farmers for organic inputs etc. Out of this, assistance @ Rs. 32,500/ ha is provided to farmers for off -farm /on –farm organic inputs including Rs. 15,000 as Direct Benefit Transfer to the farmers. Farmers can avail assistance for maximum 2ha area under both the schemes.

    Two types of organic certifications systems have been developed to ensure quality control of organic produce as given below:

    • Third Party Certification by Accredited Certification Agency under NPOP scheme under Ministry of Commerce and Industry for development of export market.
    • PGS-India under Ministry of Agriculture and farmers Welfare involves stakeholders (including farmers/ producers) in decision making about the operation of the PGS-India certification by assessing, inspecting and verifying the production practices of each other.

    Under PKVY scheme assistance @ Rs 4,500/ha is provided in total in 3 years to facilitate value addition, marketing and publicity. Assistance is provided for certification & training and handholding & capacity building @ Rs 3.000/-ha for 3 years and Rs 7,500/- ha respectively for 3 years under PKVY for farmers. Whereas under MOVCDNER scheme assistance is provided @ Rs10,000/ -ha in total in 3 years for training, capacity building & certification.

    To ensure market availability States organize seminars, conferences, workshops, buyer-seller meetings, exhibitions, trade fairs, and organic festivals either within their own region or in key markets of other states.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ******

     MG/KSR

    Annexure – I

    State wise details of total cumulative area covered under organic farming NPOP (including MOVCDNER) + PGS under PKVY till 2023-2024

    Area in ha

    S. NO.

    State Name

    NPOP

    PGS under PKVY

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    63,678.69

    3,60,805

    2

    Bihar

    29,062.13

    31,783

    3

    Chhattisgarh

    15,144.13

    1,01,279

    4

    Goa

    12,287.40

    15334

    5

    Gujarat

    6,80,819.99

    10000

    6

    Haryana

    2,925.33

    7

    Himachal Pradesh

    9,334.28

    18748

    8

    Jharkhand

    54,408.20

    25300

    9

    Kerala

    44,263.91

    94480

    10

    Karnataka

    71,085.99

    20900

    11

    Madhya Pradesh

    11,48,236.07

    74960

    12

    Maharashtra

    10,01,080.32

    66756

    13

    Odisha

    1,81,022.28

    45800

    14

    Punjab

    11,089.41

    6981

    15

    Tamil Nadu

    42,758.27

    32940

    16

    Telangana

    84,865.16

    8100

    17

    Rajasthan

    5,80,092.22

    148500

    18

    Uttar Pradesh

    66,391.34

    171185

    19

    Uttarakhand

    1,01,820.39

    140740

    20

    West Bengal

    8,117.80

    21400

    21

    Assam

    27,079.40

    4400

    22

    Arunachal Pradesh

    16,537.53

    380

    23

    Meghalaya

    29,703.30

    900

    24

    Manipur

    32,584.50

    600

    25

    Mizoram

    14,238.30

    780

    26

    Nagaland

    16,221.56

    480

    27

    Sikkim

    75,729.78

    63000

    28

    Tripura

    20,481.36

    1000

    29

    Jammu & Kashmir

    34,746.75

    5160

    30

    Pondicherry

    21.51

    31

    Delhi

    9.60

    32

    Ladakh

    10480

    33

    Daman & Diew

    642

    34

    Dadar & Nagar Haveli

    500

    35

    Andaman & Nicobar

    14491

    Total

    44,75,836.90

    14,98,804

    Grand Total (NPOP + PGS)

    59,74,640.90

    Source: APEDA + PGS

    *******

    (Release ID: 2112405) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES OF PMFBY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:00PM by PIB Delhi

    All the major work like selection of insurance model, selection of Insurance Companies through transparent bidding process, enrollment of farmers, assessment of crop yield/crop loss for calculation of admissible claims are being performed by the concerned State Government or Joint Committee of State Government officials and concerned insurance company.   Further, all the data relating to payment of claims was available with the States/UTs, therefore, they were advised to impose penalties on insurance companies themselves.  The roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder are defined in the Operational Guidelines of the scheme for the proper execution of the scheme. 

    Majority of the claims are settled  within the stipulated timelines under the Operational Guidelines of the scheme by the insurance companies.  However, during the implementation of PMFBY, some complaints were received in the past about non-payment, delayed payment or under payment of claims on account of incorrect/delayed submission of insurance proposals by banks; discrepancy in yield data & consequent disputes between State Government and insurance companies,  delay in providing State Government share of funds, non-deployment of sufficient personnel by insurance companies etc.,  which were suitably addressed as per provisions of the scheme.

    In order to rigorously monitor claim disbursal process, a dedicated module namely ‘Digiclaim Module’ has been operationalized for payment of claims from Kharif 2022 onwards. This modules gives GOI visibility of claims payable, claims paid and pending. This is used for monitoring of claims, which was not possible earlier.  It involves integration of National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP) with Public Finance Management System (PFMS) and accounting system of Insurance Companies to provide timely & transparent processing of all claims.  W.e.f. Kharif 2024, in case payment is not made timely by Insurance Company, penalty of 12% is auto-calculated and levied through NCIP.   This is the first season for implementation of auto calculated penalty on NCIP and Department is taking all necessary steps for its enforcement.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2112395) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and New Zealand working on a comprehensive, mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India

    India and New Zealand working on a comprehensive, mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement: Shri Piyush Goyal

    New Zealand Prime Minister and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal address CEOs of India and New Zealand

    I feel incredibly optimistic about the future of both the countries and India for us is a game changer:The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, PM of New Zealand

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:41PM by PIB Delhi

    India and New Zealand are working to finalize a comprehensive and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, said this while addressing the CEOs of India and New Zealand in New Delhi today. The two countries had announced the launch of negotiations for an FTA earlier this week. The event today was attended by the Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, Hon’ble Mr. Todd McClay, New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, Agriculture and Forestry, business leaders and senior officers of the two countries.

    Addressing the business leaders, Shri Goyal emphasized the immense potential for collaboration between the two countries. He articulated an ambitious vision for the India-New Zealand partnership, targeting 10x growth in bilateral trade over the next decade.

    Prime Minister of New Zealand, The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, while addressing the forum, stated that businesses play a critical role in both economies and in strengthening bilateral relations. The Prime Minister further emphasized the need to explore new frontiers and sectors where New Zealand holds a competitive advantage. “I feel incredibly optimistic about the future of both India and New Zealand. India for us is a game changer. As a smaller country in the world, India is a really consequential relationship for us. We all recognize that there is a lot more that these two countries should be doing together. When we look at the trading relationship today at $3 billion, there’s a huge opportunity for us here,” he added.

    The Commerce Minister called on business leaders from both countries to contribute towards achieving this goal. “There are hardly any areas where we compete with each other, and the few areas of sensitivity can be navigated with mutual respect. Given our different levels of development, there are limitless possibilities for cooperation in agri-tech, dairy, food processing, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, critical minerals, forestry, horticulture, tourism, and sports,” he said.

    Discussing global challenges, Shri Goyal emphasized the importance of trusted partnerships. “The world is going through a lot of problems. A defining partnership between our two nations can serve as a model for how trusted partners work together. It’s not about the size of an economy; it’s about collaboration and shared values,” he said. He noted that India’s economy, currently at $4 trillion, is poised to grow to $30-35 trillion in the next 22-25 years, presenting immense opportunities for collaboration.

    Shri Goyal highlighted the role of tourism in fostering stronger relations between India and New Zealand. He praised the Prime Minister of New Zealand for his commitment to enhancing ties between the two nations and noted that their partnership could create significant economic opportunities. “Together, we can make a significant difference to our economies. Both countries will emerge as winners through this partnership,” he stated.

    Drawing a parallel with cricket, Shri Goyal described the partnership as “aggressive yet graceful, passionate but well-composed, and creating a strong innings.” He expressed confidence that India and New Zealand are ready to step up for a brighter future.

    The Minister underscored the importance of working with democracies where the rule of law prevails and businesses get fair opportunities. He mentioned the strong people-to-people linkages between India and New Zealand, citing Papatoetoe in Auckland as “Little India.” He expressed optimism about Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, stating that they would be vibrant and add more depth to the relationship.

    He also stressed the importance of education and research in bringing people closer, highlighting the potential of New Zealand’s innovation to reach the world through India. He suggested that manufacturing in India for global markets at competitive prices could take the partnership to greater heights.

    Speaking on connectivity, Shri Goyal reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening financial and digital linkages, as well as facilitating swift mobility of manpower and technical talent. He noted that India produces the highest number of STEM graduates annually, with 43% of them being women, showcasing the diversity and strength of India’s workforce.

    “Our two countries have decisive leaders, and India’s young, aspirational population of 1.4 billion, combined with New Zealand’s innovative spirit, will create a potent partnership that the world will look up to. Walking into the future while respecting the past—this perfectly captures the essence of our collaboration,” he concluded.

    ***

     

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2112372) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1709, Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networks Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1709 would require the Department of Commerce to assess the effectiveness of cybersecurity practices employed by providers of mobile communications services and to report to the Congress on cybersecurity vulnerabilities of mobile networks and devices.

    Using information about the cost of similar requirements, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost less than $500,000. Such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Aldo Prosperi. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Convenes International Business Leaders near Northern Border to Discuss Impacts of Trump’s Trade War 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch: “I’m very disturbed about what is happening…how it’s affecting our families here in Vermont, how it’s affecting our businesses here in Vermont, and how it’s affecting the mutual cooperation that we had the blessing of enjoying for generations—between us and Canada. I am opposed to tariffs against our Canadian allies.”
    NEWPORT, VT — Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, convened Vermont and Canadian business leaders for a roundtable in Newport, Vermont —near the U.S.-Canada border—to discuss President Trump’s Trade War and how the Trump Administration’s reckless tariffs are hurting workers, families, and farmers.
    Senator Welch’s remarks from the beginning of the roundtable are included in-full below:  
    “We in Vermont really value both our friendship with Canadians, and our economic partnerships with Canada. I believe what’s happening here with the rhetoric from the Trump Administration and from these tariffs is very destructive—for you and for us.  
    “I don’t want to be a part of it. I want to be a part of doing everything we can to maintain the very cordial, friendly, economically mutually-beneficial relationships that we have. I can understand an appropriate place for a tariff, and Canada can make its own decisions about where it would be appropriate for you to have a tariff. I cannot think of why we would be having a tariff or trade war with our best neighbor. Your environmental standards — your labor standards — match or exceed ours, and that’s really important to you and it’s important to us.  
    “What I’m seeing with the tariffs is that they’re being imposed in a very arbitrary way. Not to mention that they’re on again, they’re off again.  
    “Every time I speak to any anybody in business on our side (and it’s really nice that we’re going to hear from the Canadian side of the border) one of the things that’s really essential is stability. No business, and frankly no family, can deal with, ‘yes, we’re on no, we’re off.’ Nobody can do that. And it is not, in my view, good for international relationships. It’s not good for business relationships. And it’s not even good for family, where there’s constant instability. You don’t know what the rules are—they keep changing.  
    “I’m very disturbed about what is happening from [the Trump] Administration and I’m disturbed from the perspective of how it’s affecting our families here in Vermont, how it’s affecting our businesses here in Vermont and how it’s affecting the mutual cooperation that we had the blessing of enjoying for generations, between us and Canada. I am opposed to tariffs against our Canadian allies. 
    “That’s just to set the stage of where I’m coming from, and it’s why I am so grateful that we have this joint meeting where we can talk about the real problems that are caused as a result of these tariffs. And mobilize as much support as we can to renewing that friendship, that business relationship, that economic relationship that we’ve had. So, thank you all for coming and [the Hon. Marie-Claude] Bibeau, I’m so, so delighted that you’re here. I want to turn it over to you after I expressed my gratitude for all the work you’ve done and your willingness to be here deep in the south reaches of Newport, Vermont.”
    Photos of the event are included below:
    Senator Welch was joined by the Hon. Marie-Claude Bibeau, Member of Parliament for Compton-Stanstead, and Vermont and Canadian business owners. Attendees included representatives from Newport Downtown Development; Built By Newport; Columbia Forest Products; Kingdom Brewing; Morrison Custom Feeds, Inc.; Kingdom Trails Association; Hill Farmstead Brewery; Vermont Brewers Association; Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development; Northeastern Vermont Development Association; Caledonia Spirits; Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association; Judd’s Wayeeses Farm; Khrome Product-Transport; Weidmann Electrical Technology; TRACK, Inc.; Larue; Motrec International; UTV Internationale; Ville de Sherbrooke; and the Sherbrooke Chamber of Commerce.  
    Nearly half of all U.S. imports—more than $1.3 trillion—come from Canada, China, and Mexico. Canada is the largest trading partner for 34 U.S. states, including Vermont. In 2024 alone, trade with Canada accounted for 35% of Vermont exports, 67% of our imports, and 56% of its total trade. One in four businesses in Vermont relies on trade with Canada.  
    In many cases, Vermont manufacturers buy imports from Canada to manufacture into products. Tariffs on Canada threaten business closures and job layoffs, higher homebuilding costs, increased costs of grain for farmers, and more expensive equipment for maple producers—among other costs that will get passed on to working families. 
    Senator Welch has blasted Trump’s tariffs and trade war, and shared stories from constituents about how President Trump’s economic policies have impacted their businesses, farms, and communities. This event follows a roundtable Senator Welch held in St. Albans in January and virtually in February where he heard from businesses and state and local leaders about the President’s threats to reignite a trade war. 
    Vermonters are invited to share how these tariffs will impact their lives and businesses by sharing their story on Senator Welch’s website. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom continues supporting Los Angeles business, fire recovery workers with funding, educational workplace safety outreach

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 18, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom and Los Angeles community-based organizations (CBOs) today announced $25 million to advance educational outreach to workers and businesses about vital health, safety, and workplace protections.

    LOS ANGELES — As rebuilding in the Los Angeles area continues at record speed, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the state is awarding $25 million and strengthening partnerships with local communities to ensure fire recovery workers and businesses have access to additional workplace safety information through a California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP).

    “We’re helping ensure that brave fire recovery workers and businesses have vital workplace safety information.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    California Labor & Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA), California State Labor Commissioner, and representatives from Los Angeles Community Based Organizations (CBOs) will issue $25 million in funding for the CWOP to support 89 community-based organizations across the state.

    CWOP is a DIR partnership with CBOs to provide critical information about workplace protections, labor rights, and health and safety measures for workers in high-risk industries. The outreach work will help notify workers and businesses about vital health and safety protections, hazard prevention, and other worker protections for people and businesses helping Los Angeles cleanup and rebuild.

    Today’s actions build on multiple efforts across the state to support workers and businesses who are helping the Los Angeles community recover and rebuild.

    And California has worked with local communities and federal and local providers to help businesses and workers in many ways, including:

    • Supporting workers and employers: The Employment Development Department (EDD) supports workers with unemployment, disability insurance, or Paid Family Leave benefits, including Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for those who do not qualify for regular unemployment benefits. The Governor took action to extend payroll tax deadlines and reporting requirements—a move that has helped thousands of businesses in the Los Angeles area. Employers can request a 60-day extension on payroll reports and taxes, or participate in the Work Sharing program.
    • On-the-ground advisors for small businesses: Over 200 business advisors from Small Business Support Centers help answer questions about economic recovery, loan application processes, insurance, employee and workforce support, and business planning. 
    • Providing resources for recovery: CalOSBA launched a Resource Guide for small businesses impacted by the wildfires through its Outsmart Disaster website.
    • Financial assistance for businesses: The California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) loan programs help businesses from one to 750 employees affected by the LA wildfires. Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program (DRLGP) issues loan guarantees up to 95%.  
    • Expediting contractor licensing: The Contractor State Licensing Board (CSLB) is rapidly processing licensing applications to continue expediting efforts to rebuild homes and businesses. 
    • Helping fire survivors rebuild safely: CSLB is also partnering with state agencies to promote California-licensed contractors for repairs or to rebuild their homes or businesses. CSLB’s Disaster Hotline 1-800-962-1125 and online Disaster Help Center also provided valuable support to survivors.
    • Protecting against unlicensed contractors: Investigation teams notified the public that it is a felony to contract without a license in a California disaster area, urged consumers to always check licenses before hiring a contractor, and recommended reporting any unlicensed activity immediately by filing complaints at www2.cslb.ca.gov.
    • Helping licensees rebuild their businesses: The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, the Board of Accountancy, and other DCA boards rescheduled licensing examinations at no charge and are issuing duplicate licenses for original licenses lost in the fires.
    • Governor Newsom also issued multiple executive orders to help speed rebuilding and recovery, create more temporary housing, and protect survivors.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: With the release of a new draft working report by leading artificial intelligence experts, California continues to lead in advocating for the responsible use of emerging AI technology and the study of its impacts and opportunities.  SAN…

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr.:“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Deputy Cuevas. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his…

    News Lo que necesita saber: California tiene un nuevo compañero en Sonora, México para impulsar el desarrollo de recursos energéticos renovables, la resiliencia de la cadena de suministro y el transporte limpio. To read this release in English, click here. Sacramento,…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: California strengthens its position as the global AI leader with new working report issued by experts and academics

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 18, 2025

    What you need to know: With the release of a new draft working report by leading artificial intelligence experts, California continues to lead in advocating for the responsible use of emerging AI technology and the study of its impacts and opportunities. 

    SAN FRANCISCO – California’s leadership in the AI industry is helping to guide the world in the responsible implementation and use of this emerging technology. Today, a group of world-leading AI academics and experts, convened at the request of Governor Newsom, released a new draft report on workable guardrails based on an empirical, science-based analysis of the capabilities and attendant risks of frontier models — which will help pave the way for the use of AI for the benefit of all Californians. 

    “The future happens in California first – including the development of powerful AI technology. As home to over half of the world’s top AI companies, our state carries a unique responsibility in leading the safe advancement of this industry in a way that improves our communities, maintains our economic dominance, and ensures that this fast-moving technology benefits the public good.” 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    AI is already changing the world, and California will play a pivotal role in defining that future. As the fifth-largest economy in the world and the birthplace of the tech industry, California continues to dominate this sector as the leader in AI. The state is home to 32 of the 50 top AI companies worldwide. In addition to championing responsible use of this emerging industry, California is harnessing its potential to increase efficiency and support state operations.  

    Studying AI’s risk and opportunities 

    Today’s working report is a result of the Governor’s convening of leading experts on artificial intelligence and policy to help California develop workable guardrails for deploying generative AI (GenAI), focusing on developing an empirical, science-based trajectory analysis of frontier models and their capabilities and attendant risks. Authors include the  “godmother of AI,” Dr. Fei-Fei Li, Professor of Computer Science at Stanford University and Founding Co-Director of Stanford’s Human-Centered AI Institute;  Mariano-Florentino “Tino” Cuéllar, President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Social and Ethical Implications of Computing Research; and Dr. Jennifer Tour Chayes, Dean of the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society at UC Berkeley.

    The working report includes recommendations on ensuring evidence-based policymaking, balancing the need for transparency with considerations such as security risks, and determining the appropriate level of regulation in this fast-evolving field.  As a working white paper, the authors invite public participation. Academics, experts, and other stakeholders can submit comments or suggestions regarding their recommendations here

    California’s AI global leadership 

    California has launched efforts to help the state take advantage of this emerging technology, while also creating responsible policy guardrails to protect Californians, businesses, and workers. In 2023, Governor Newsom signed an executive order laying out California’s measured approach to state GenAI procurement. That EO has shaped the future of ethical, transparent, and trustworthy GenAI deployment, all while California remains the world’s GenAI leader. 

    Harnessing the power of AI

    In 2024, Governor Newsom announced the state’s efforts to help utilize GenAI technologies to solve challenges, everything from reducing traffic to helping address homelessness.

    Governor Newsom also co-hosted a GenAI summit in May 2024 with leaders across academia, industry, civil society, and government to discuss how the state can best use this transformative technology on behalf of Californians.  

    First-of-its-kind effort with NVIDIA 

    In August 2024, the state partnered with NVIDIA to launch a first-of-its-kind AI collaboration. The initiative, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and NVIDIA founder & CEO Jensen Huang, aims to:

    • Train students, educators and workers
    • Support job creation and promote innovation
    • Use AI to solve challenges that can improve the lives of Californians

    Among other goals, it strives to bring new AI resources into community colleges from NVIDIA – including curriculum and certifications, hardware and software, AI labs and workshops, and more – to open new pathways for students, educators, and workers to learn new skills and advance their careers.

    Staying ahead of threats 

    Last year, Governor Newsom also signed a series of bills to crack down on sexually explicit deepfakes and require AI watermarking, protect performers’ digital likenesses, and combat deepfake election content

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr.:“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Deputy Cuevas. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his…

    News Lo que necesita saber: California tiene un nuevo compañero en Sonora, México para impulsar el desarrollo de recursos energéticos renovables, la resiliencia de la cadena de suministro y el transporte limpio. To read this release in English, click here. Sacramento,…

    News What you need to know: California has a new partner in Sonora, Mexico to boost the development of renewable energy resources, supply chain resilience, and clean transportation. Para leer este comunicado en español, haga clic aquí. Sacramento, California –…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protecting the EU budget from inflationary pressures – E-002961/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The ceilings of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2021-2027 are expressed in 2018 prices and the adjustment to current prices is done based on a fixed annual deflator of 2% (Article 4(2) of the MFF Regulation[1]).

    This long-standing adjustment mechanism, in use since 2007, has the advantage of providing predictability for the EU programme resources over the duration of the MFF.

    The Commission has assessed the impact of the high inflation on the real value of MFF expenditure in the context of the Mid-term revision of the MFF proposed in June 2023[2] based on the forecast at that time, as discussed in the Staff Working Document accompanying the MFF revision (SWD(2023) 336 final[3]).

    The impact of inflation is being assessed together with all the other features of the MFF.

    The current MFF has instruments over and above the MFF expenditure ceilings that provide flexibility to address unexpected needs, including inflationary pressures.

    These instruments were reinforced in the MFF revision, with an increase in the flexibility instrument and the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve and the introduction of the EU recovery instrument. The design of any future flexibility tool remains to be decided in the context of the next MFF.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32020R2093
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/system/files/2023-06/COM_2023_336_1_EN_ACT_part1_v4.pdf
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/eu-budget/long-term-eu-budget/2021-2027/documents_en
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Breach of the contract terms of the bi-communal waste water treatment plant project in occupied Mia Milia in Nicosia – E-001004/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001004/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Costas Mavrides (S&D)

    The Nicosia Waste Water Treatment Unit began operations in 2013, using advanced membrane technology to produce safe, recycled water for irrigation purposes. It treats waste water from the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. The project, which has a total cost of around EUR 29 million, is being co-financed by the Nicosia Sewerage Council (70 %) and the European Commission (30 %) and is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme.

    Since the start of the project, the two communities have worked together so that this water can be reused for agricultural irrigation. However, for some time now, a large part of the recycled water produced has ended up coursing down the Pedieos river into the sea close to the occupied area of Famagusta. This is because the occupying authorities have prevented repayment of the debt to the managing company. The value of the lost water for the 2020-2024 period alone is estimated to be EUR 28 million.

    In view of this, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Is it aware of the stance taken by the occupying regime and, if so, what steps has it taken to put an end to this unfortunate development?
    • 2.Has the European Court of Auditors been informed of the breach of the project contract terms, given that the project is being co-financed by European funds?

    Submitted: 7.3.2025

    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Drone Federation India launch National Innovation Challenge for Drone Research (NIDAR) under SwaYaan initiative

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Drone Federation India launch National Innovation Challenge for Drone Research (NIDAR) under SwaYaan initiative

    NIDAR Launch Boosts Talent, R&D, and Skill Development in India’s Growing Drone Ecosystem

    NIDAR offers INR 40 lakhs prize pool and startup incubation, cloud Credits, software support and internship opportunities for student teams

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 8:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration with the Drone Federation India (DFI), launched the National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research (NIDAR) under the ‘SwaYaan – Capacity Building for Human Resource Development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems’ initiative. The event was held at Electronics Niketan, MeitY government representatives, industry experts, and students from across the nation through online video-conferencing mode.

    The challenge was formally inaugurated by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, who unveiled the official concept video, launched the website and registration portal (https://nidar.org.in)and released the NIDAR Poster and RuleBook. In his address, Shri Krishnan emphasized the pivotal role of drones in transforming various sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, logistics, healthcare, and infrastructure and the need for taking the NIDAR program at a larger scale to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a global drone hub by 2030.

    Prof. T. G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE highlighted the need for taking the NIDAR challenges to engineering colleges across the country. He emphasized that academic institutions, startups and industries need to collaborate. He highlighted the need for innovative collaboration and leading the way in drone technology.

    NIDAR under the project SwaYaan aims to inspire and engage India’s student and research communities to develop collaborative autonomous drones, addressing real-world challenges across two critical domains:

    • Disaster Management (Scout & Deliver Drones): Identifying and assisting survivors in disaster-affected areas using autonomous drones for scouting, communication, and parcel delivery.
    • Precision Agriculture (Scan & Spray Drones): Enhancing productivity and sustainability in agriculture through targeted interventions like crop health monitoring and precise pesticide/nutrient delivery.

    The challenge offers a total prize pool of INR 40 Lakhs along with opportunities for startup incubation, cloud credits, software support, and internships with India’s leading drone companies. Over 100 student teams from higher education institutions across the country are expected to participate, presenting innovative solutions aimed at addressing pressing challenges in agriculture and disaster response.

    The initiative is part of the Government of India’s broader effort to enhance entrepreneurship in academia and encourage applied research in drone technology. The Drone Federation India (DFI), a premier industry body representing over 550 drone companies and 5500 drone pilots, will support participating students by providing mentorship and industry exposure.

    The competition will be conducted in multiple phases, including technology presentation, business case presentation, and final operations, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of students’ technical and entrepreneurial capabilities.

    The event also featured participation from distinguished industry leaders besides students and professors from higher education colleges and technical institutions. Over 100 student teams from these institutions are expected to participate in this competition to build two collaborative autonomous drones for solving image-based detection and autonomous delivery.

    The launch of NIDAR marks a significant step towards nurturing talent and promoting research & development in India’s rapidly growing drone ecosystem. The competition is expected to enhance technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and project management skills among participants, preparing them for impactful careers in emerging technology domains.

    About SwaYaan

    Capacity Building for Human Resource Development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drone & Allied Technologies)

    The SwaYaan initiative, approved by MeitY in July, 2022, focuses on capacity building for human resource development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), including drones and related technologies. The project aims to train 42,560 participants, combining both formal and non-formal educational programs to create a skilled workforce in drone technology. The initiative is implemented through a hub-and-spoke model involving 30 premium institutions like IISc, IITs, IIITs, NITs, CDAC, and NIELIT. Five key work themes guide the project—Drone Electronics, GNC Algorithms Simulation, Aeromechanics, Drone Applications, and Allied UAS Technologies—ensuring specialized focus areas. To date, over 14,000 beneficiaries have been trained. Notable achievements include the launch of an M.Tech. in UAS Engineering at IIT Kanpur, initiation of multiple minor degree programs, and successful conduction of numerous bootcamps and workshops. SwaYaan engages industry partners through innovation challenges and industry meets, reinforcing the link between academic training and real-world application in drone technology. For further details, refer to https://swayaan.meity.gov.in)

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    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith/ Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2112555) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UIDAI partners with indigenous GenAI Company Sarvam AI to enhance user experience of Aadhaar services

    Source: Government of India

    UIDAI partners with indigenous GenAI Company Sarvam AI to enhance user experience of Aadhaar services

    Aadhaar Services to get AI-Powered Voice Interactions, Fraud Detection, and Multilingual Support

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 7:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has partnered with Bengaluru based Sarvam AI, an indigenous  full-stack Generative AI (GenAI) company to enhance user experience, while availing Aadhaar services.

     

    AI-Powered Voice-Based Interactions

    With the agreement coming into effect from 18th March, Sarvam will deploy the AI solution to perform voice-based interactions for resident-centric use cases.  This will help get near real-time feedback from Aadhaar number holders for their enrollment and update processes, including information on overcharging of residents (if any)

    Real-Time Fraud Alerts for Enhanced Security

    The agreement will also offer real-time fraud alerts to Aadhaar number holders in case the AI it spots anything suspicious during authentication requests.

    Multilingual AI Support for Wider Accessibility

    Keeping in mind the linguistic diversity, this new AI solution deployment will allow the voice interaction and fraud detection in 10 languages including Hindi, English, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Punjabi and Malayalam. The language options will increase further in coming months.

    Commitment to User-Centric Innovation

    UIDAI has always kept Aadhaar number holders at the centre of its focus, and has been constantly working to upgrade technology and improve user experience, further. The fresh MoU is a step in that direction.

    Sarvam AI has delivered a custom GenAI stack, being hosted on-premise within an air-gapped UIDAI infrastructure. No data will leave UIDAI’s secure environment at any stage of operation, ensuring full compliance with data sovereignty and security protocols. The agreement will be initially valid for a period of one year and may be extended by one more year.

    The development of this innovative solution was made possible through UIDAI’s volunteer policy, which enables industry collaborations. Volunteers from Sarvam AI worked closely with the UIDAI’s Technology Centre in Bengaluru to develop and deploy the GenAI solution. The ownership of the solution will be with UIDAI.

    “UIDAI is a people centric organization. GenAI is the next technology evolution in UIDAI’s journey as a technology pioneer, building on our long-standing commitment to innovation for facilitating ease of living,” said Bhuvnesh Kumar, CEO, UIDAI.

    “We are privileged to collaborate with UIDAI. This engagement exemplifies the immense potential of AI to drive public good,” said Vivek Raghavan, Co-Founder of Sarvam AI.

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    Dharmendra Tewari/Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2112485) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Consumer awareness is key to a sustainable and secure digital experience: Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Source: Government of India

    Consumer awareness is key to a sustainable and secure digital experience: Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Department of Consumer Affairs and Meta Strengthen Partnership to Enhance Consumer Protection

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 7:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Ministry for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi along with Mr. Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer, Meta announced a new collaboration ‘Be an Empowered Consumer’ to empower consumers through digital literacy initiatives under the government’s flagship consumer awareness campaign ‘Jago Grahak Jago’.

    Speaking at the launch of the partnership, Shri Joshi said, “We are pleased to partner with Meta on this crucial initiative to equip citizens with the knowledge and tools that will enable them to navigate the digital landscape and protect themselves online.”

    “Consumer awareness is key to a sustainable and secure digital experience and the campaign will strengthen consumer protection measures and reinforce our commitment to empowering Indian consumers,” he added.

    Shri Joshi emphasised that with the collaboration, the efforts of Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, towards consumer protection will reach to the remote areas of the country.

    The joint campaign ‘Be an Empowered Consumer’ seeks to educate Indians on recognizing online threats and promoting healthy online habits, including the use of strong passwords, verification of online information, and reporting suspicious activity. This was discussed in a meeting before the launch.  

    During the meeting, the Union Minister was also apprised about a joint project commissioned with IIT Bombay by the chair established by the Department at the National Law School of India University Bangalore, and supported by Meta.  The project explores the feasibility of leveraging Llama 2, Meta’s openly available large language model, in creating a citizen-centric chatbot: GrahakNyay. The chatbot will enhance access to consumer rights information, a robust grievance redressal tool that will help individuals file complaints and resolve queries more efficiently. The chatbot is now ready for a closed group beta testing and will be officially launched and integrated into DoCA’s website once its testing is complete.

    Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, present while addressing the event, said that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding and safeguarding consumer rights. To make this commitment effective, it is important that consumers are aware of online threats and are able to perceive the unethical business practices, she said. Also, having right to have their grievances heard and addressed is essential for fostering accountability, transparency, and fairness. The chatbox will make it possible through the process of seamless complaint filing and resolution of queries, she stated.

    Mr. Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer, Meta during the event said, “With technology progressing so quickly, it can be hard for people to stay up to date with the best ways to keep themselves safe online, which is why we’re pleased to work with the Department of Consumer Affairs and contribute to India’s digital consumer protection efforts. At Meta we think AI can help people protect themselves and be informed online consumers. By making AI more accessible, we hope to improve consumer awareness, streamline redressal processes, and equip people with the knowledge they need to make informed choices online.”

    The above initiatives are steps in direction of Department’s efforts towards consumer protection and empowerment through enactment of progressive legislations and launching of technology driven programmes. With evolution of technology consumer has been rendered vulnerable to new forms of unfair trade and unethical business practices such as misleading advertisements, Tele-marketing, direct selling, e-commerce etc., thereby, requiring appropriate and swift executive interventions to prevent consumer detriment.

    To address the myriad and constantly emerging vulnerabilities of the consumers and to promote, protect and enforce the rights of the consumers, an executive agency, Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has been established under section 10 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Section 18 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 empowers CCPA to protect, promote and enforce the rights of consumers as a class, prevent unfair trade practices, ensure no false or misleading advertisement is made and ensure that no person takes part in the publication of any advertisement which is false or misleading.  Additionally, under section 18 (2) (j) and (l), CCPA can issue safety notices to alert consumers against dangerous or unsafe goods or services and issue necessary guidelines to prevent unfair trade practices and protect consumers’ interest respectively. As per section 19 of the Act, CCPA may, on receiving information or complaint or directions from central government or of its own motion, conduct or cause to be conducted a preliminary inquiry as to whether there exists a prima facie case of violation of consumer rights or unfair trade practice or any false or misleading advertisement and if satisfied, it shall cause investigation to be made by the Director-General. Under section 20 and 21, CCPA has power to impose penalties up to 50 lakh rupees against such practices.

    In this direction, CCPA has passed appropriate orders in the past against companies and online platforms, in addition to issuing advisories against illegal sale and facilitation of wireless jammers, sale of drugs without prescription, sale of car seat belt alarm stopper etc. Further, Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020 and Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements and Endorsements for Misleading Advertisements, 2022 were notified to make e-commerce platforms more transparent and accountable to consumers. The Department also published booklet on “Endorsements know-hows for celebrities, influencers and virtual influencers on social media platforms”. In addition to these, time and again, CCPA has issued guidelines to strengthen the legislative framework against unethical business practices in the form of Guidelines on Prevention of Dark Pattern 2023, Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing, 2024 and Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Misleading Advertisement in Coaching Sector 2024.

    Now, this two-pronged approach – leveraging AI for consumer grievance redressal through GrahakNyay chatbox and enhancing digital literacy through ‘Be an Empowered Consumer’ campaign, marks a significant step in strengthening consumer rights in India.

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    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2112470) Visitor Counter : 83

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News